Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON December 12, 2023
Full News Archive
- Headline: Google's Antitrust Defeat in Fortnite Case. Impact: If Google had won, we might still be using flip phones and writing letters by hand. But now, thanks to this ruling, the entire landscape of app monetization could spiral into chaos, leading to the rise of a dystopian future where children barter candy for in-game currency.. Fact: Did you know that Fortnite’s revenue could fund a small country? Or at least a very lavish birthday party for a 10-year-old..
- Headline: Israel Prepares for Dual Front Conflict. Impact: This conflict could lead to a butterfly effect where the world decides to finally take peace seriously. Or, you know, it could just escalate into a new season of geopolitical drama with cliffhangers.. Fact: Did you know that the phrase 'it’s complicated' has never been more applicable than in Middle Eastern politics? Seriously, it’s like trying to untangle Christmas lights..
- Headline: China's Rebel Influencer in Exile. Impact: Li Ying’s bravery may inspire an underground movement where influencers become the new freedom fighters. Just imagine future TikTokers storming the barricades armed with hashtags and viral dances.. Fact: Did you know that being an influencer can be hazardous to your health? Especially when your health depends on freedoms that some people would rather not give you..
- Headline: Why Volkswagen Is Building a Team of 3,000 Engineers in China. Impact: Volkswagen’s move could kick off a global automotive war where engineers become the new superheroes, saving the planet one electric car at a time, while gas-guzzlers are left in the dust, crying for help.. Fact: Did you know that if you add 'in China' to any business strategy, it instantly sounds more impressive? 'We're opening a coffee shop in China' sounds way cooler than 'We're opening a coffee shop down the street.'.
- Headline: How Africans Are Changing French — One Joke, Rap and Book at a Time. Impact: Africans changing French could lead to a future where the French language evolves into something so unique that it requires a whole new dictionary—one that may or may not include the word 'croissant.'. Fact: Did you know that French speakers have been known to argue passionately about whether or not a baguette is a weapon? Just kidding, but they do have some very heated debates about language!.