After months of speculation on the whereabouts of Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales and future Queen of England, the Royal Family released an image on Sunday that appeared to have been edited. Middleton claimed credit for the edits, saying she was trying to piece together everyone's best expressions in the photo. However, there are other issues with the photo that continue to raise questions.
Tuesday, March 12, 2024The United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority has given approval for WisdomTree to launch Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded products (ETPs) on the London Stock Exchange. Though it will only be available to professional investors, it is the first in the UK after regulators banned crypto offerings in 2020.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed "copyright traps" to help creators detect if AI models have used their work without permission. These traps are hidden within copyrighted content and can indicate if the content is later found in AI-generated outputs. While not foolproof, this method offers a new way to address the growing concern of AI scraping copyrighted material.
Meridian is the Stellar Development Foundation's annual conference — and this year's London event is a must-attend for anyone in the blockchain space. Keynote speakers include actor and filmmaker Idris Elba, Fabio Aruajo of Banco Central do Brasil, Louis Amira of Stripe, and many others. Special developer track featuring an innovation showcase, hackathon, and plenty of room to explore the latest innovations in web3. A chance to connect with developers, founders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and leaders making real-world change with blockchain technology. Apply for the $49 Developer Ticket here >>
Pentagram has introduced a new visual identity for Sister, an ambitious innovation district in Manchester, which aims to blend science, technology, and community. Launched by Mayor Andy Burnham, this multi-billion-pound project is strategically positioned between Piccadilly Station and The University of Manchester. The development will encompass a variety of spaces, including offices, laboratories, creative areas, residential units, shops, restaurants, and a new arts center, all designed by Allies and Morrison with a focus on sustainable landscaping by SLA. This initiative seeks to honor Manchester's rich history of scientific discovery while fostering a modern, innovative environment. The design team at Pentagram, led by Harry Pearce, drew inspiration from Manchester's legacy as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and its significant contributions to computer science, particularly through the work of Alan Turing. Central to the brand's identity is Sister Mono, a custom typeface that reflects the letterforms of early code-breaking machines and Turing's pioneering computers. This monospaced typeface serves as a versatile foundation for the district's branding, ensuring a strong presence across various applications. The logotype for Sister is also rooted in historical significance, inspired by The Manchester Code, a data signaling system developed in the late 1940s. The design features a flowing line that wraps around the letterforms, symbolizing connectivity and movement, akin to the River Medlock that flows beneath the site. The name "Sister" itself pays homage to a proposal from the 1963 Robbins Report, which envisioned the establishment of Special Institutions for Scientific and Technological Education and Research in major cities, including Manchester. To encapsulate Sister's community-driven mission, The Draft collaborated with Pentagram to create a manifesto and film that highlight the project's collaborative spirit, encapsulated in the tagline, "It takes a community to raise an idea." This emphasizes the importance of community involvement in fostering innovation. Pentagram's design extends beyond a static identity, incorporating animations, a diverse set of linear icons, and typographic patterns that reflect the brand's dynamic nature. The visual identity features a clean black-and-white palette complemented by bright secondary colors, conveying a confident aesthetic that mirrors the scientific rigor and creative energy of Sister. The logo and typeface are designed to integrate seamlessly with imagery, creating striking compositions that celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of the district. This multifaceted identity will be prominently displayed across signage, environmental graphics, and digital platforms, ensuring a cohesive experience for visitors and residents alike. As Sister develops, it is poised to redefine Manchester's status as a global leader in innovation. Pentagram's thoughtful design not only reflects the district's aspirations but also pays tribute to Manchester's historical contributions to science and technology. Ultimately, Sister aims to become a living testament to the power of community, creativity, and innovation, embodying the essence of Manchester's legacy.