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This week: Vintage audio equipment

This week: Vintage audio equipment

plus teledriving, Microsoft at 50, Meta undersea

Brett Bouchard
December 07, 2024

Wise Tech - Technology news for non-tech humans!

I still have a few tapes & records in boxes…am curious if they’ll still play after all these years!

1. Vintage audio equipment is making a comeback

What’s the tech
Vintage audio equipment, like cassette players, turntables, and stereo systems, is becoming popular again. People are buying, repairing, and using older devices, drawn to their durability and nostalgic charm.

How it’s used
Shops like Mars Tapes in the UK sell cassette tapes to new and seasoned fans. Many individuals repair old audio equipment, giving a second life to devices like record players and speakers. Online searches for "audio equipment repair" are rising, showing growing interest in keeping these items functional.

Why it's news now
This trend is part of a larger movement toward sustainability and the circular economy (a system aimed at eliminating waste by reusing resources). People appreciate that older devices are easier to repair and last longer than many modern gadgets. Plus, these items often evoke fond memories. The electronics repair industry is booming, with its market value expected to nearly double by 2033.

2. What is teledriving?

What’s the tech
Teledriving is a system where cars are driven remotely by trained operators using simulator-like setups. Vay, a car rental service, is pioneering this technology in Las Vegas.

How it’s used
Customers use an app to summon a rental car, which is then driven to their location by a teledriver sitting miles away. The teledriver operates the car using a steering wheel, pedals, and video feeds from the car's cameras. Safety systems ensure the car stops automatically in emergencies.

Why it’s news now
Teledriving could revolutionize vehicle rental and delivery, making the process faster and more convenient. With rigorous safety testing and specialized training for drivers, Vay’s approach shows how new tech can address real-world challenges, like reducing traffic caused by cars driven back to rental depots.

3. Reflecting on tech giant Microsoft at 50

What’s the tech
Microsoft has evolved from a software company into a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and open-source technology. Products like Microsoft Copilot demonstrate their focus on integrating AI into everyday tools.

How it’s used
AI tools are being added to Microsoft products such as Windows, Bing, and Microsoft 365, helping users work more efficiently. For example, Copilot assists with tasks like drafting emails or analyzing data. Microsoft also contributes to open-source projects, promoting collaboration.

Why it’s news now
Microsoft’s transformation under CEO Satya Nadella highlights the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation. Their investments in AI infrastructure and open-source technology signal a shift from their past image of being closed off to collaboration. As Microsoft nears its 50th anniversary, it’s poised to lead in AI and tech innovation for decades to come.

Bonus Topic: Meta wants to build a $10B subsea cable connecting the world

What it does
Meta is building an underwater internet cable called the "W" to connect the U.S. with South Africa, India, and Australia. This cable will span over 40,000 kilometers.

How it’s used
Undersea cables carry internet data between continents. Meta’s cable will improve internet speed and reliability for its massive global user base, which accounts for 10% of all fixed internet traffic.

Why it’s popular
This project gives Meta greater control over its infrastructure, reducing reliance on other providers. It also avoids geopolitical risks from traditional cable routes. With increasing internet demands, tech companies are taking on such large-scale projects to ensure their services remain robust.

Conversation starter
“Did you know undersea internet cables handle almost all international data traffic?”