Signals from the Future
🕵🏽♀️ Online sleuths using facial recognition to identify Russian soldiers
In a hyperconnected world, the ability to ID people from afar using open-source intelligence could bring new accountability to armed conflict. But can bring trouble, too: face algorithms can be wrong, and identifying—or misidentifying—people could expose them or their families to harassment or worse.
🥽 What will the metaverse smell like?
Modern-day Smell-O-Vision? Vermont-based OVR Technology is one of a handful of companies developing scent technology for virtual reality—aka a black cartridge that snaps into a VR headset and fits over your nose.
👩💼 In the UK, female-led companies outperform those run by men
Britain’s shadow secretary for women and equalities Anneliese Dodds says data shows women hold the key to a stronger economy but are being held back by a lack of investment and the risk of “childcare deserts” in parts of the country. Close the gap!
💰 CD and record sales grow for the first time since 2004
Rumors of old media’s death have been exaggerated. The RIAA reports that in 2021, CD sales in the U.S. were up more than $100 million from 2020, and vinyl sales rose from from $643.9 million to $1 billion.
🔥 LEGOs take an anarchist turn
A Chicago store called Citizen Brick sells two new custom-designed LEGOs: one based on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the other on a molotov cocktail. Proceeds for this deadly serious play go to a charity providing medical aid to Ukraine and the surrounding countries.
Future Factors is IFTF Vantage’s proprietary, easy-to-use platform for sharing and synthesizing signals from today that are likely to affect the transformation of tomorrow.
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