In this week’s newsletter: how words can change perspectives; how people are using ChatGPT; how communication techniques are used by scammers; how I put together my nearly perfect work laptop; and how to make stuff in new ways using Google Gemini and Whisk.
People often ask me how I keep up with Gen AI, given the crazy pace of advancements.
My method is to read newsletters about the AI industry, which I have compiled on the Bookmarks page of my ThinkTan site. It’s part of my morning ritual where I also read mainstream and tech news. This is how I also get ideas to try new ways of using Gen AI to solve problems.
I think most people only see news about how companies or governments are using AI, or how the tech stocks are doing. I do read those, but it’s more important to spend your time exploring and using the tools.
For example, this week, Google Gemini suddenly refused to let me create web apps when I prompted it to do so. After some trial and error, I realised that Gemini now requires the user to press the “Canvas” button before it would start coding. You’re not going to find news stories about such seemingly minor, but dealbreaking changes. You really need to be hands-on with technology to wield it well.
What I wrote this week
Wise words from 1998 which changed my perspective on car ownership in Singapore.
The communication techniques that fool us.
How are people actually using ChatGPT?
Putting together my nearly perfect work laptop.
Experiments with Google AI
Iterative prompting with Google Whisk. This also works with Gemini.
Make your own fancy animated logo with Gemini.
You can also create your own QR Generator with Gemini.
Can LinkedIn users stop it with the mundane “boring text on walls” images?
Another cool method of combining two images in Google Whisk, using the group photo from the recent Advanced Gen AI Masterclass, organised by The Straits Times.
Unlocked NYT stories
Seeing through the reality of Meta’s smart glasses
How Good Is Exercise That Feels Effortless?