This AI-generated sitcom is actually unsettling to watch

"A video that went viral this week shows an AI-generated take on the iconic sitcom Friends that's so bizarre that it's uncomfortable to watch. While the set appears to be largely recognizable, the cast members bear almost no resemblance to the show's actual human actors. Performers also sprout random limbs, their hands teleport through doors, and at one point, towards the end of the video, one sloppified cast member mysteriously sheds a clone of herself, who immediately takes a seat on a nearby couch. Ironically, while it fudged the faces of the show's well-known actors, the sounds of the voices of Friends stars, including Courteney Cox and the late Matthew Perry, are far more believable — if it weren't for some seriously stilted and nonsensical delivery, that is. In short, the video is nothing short of a Lynchian nightmare, a surreal and unnervingly inhuman reconstruction of an extremely well-known franchise."

Futurism »

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Become the friend who ruins trivia night

You know that one person who randomly drops knowledge about the industrial revolution or ant supercolonies? That could be you. And you can absorb all that kind of fun information just from watching cool documentaries on Curiosity Stream. For a one-time cost (monthly subscriptions who?), Curiosity Stream unlocks thousands of high-def documentaries on science, tech, nature, and history — plus new content added every week. It's the ultimate glow-up for your inner know-it-all. Just promise us you won't yell out all the answers during Jeopardy!. [Ad]

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An Alzheimer's pill appears to protect some in a high-risk population

"In April, the future was looking bleak for an experimental Alzheimer's drug called valiltramiprosate, or ALZ-801. Researchers had just released topline results of a study of more than 300 people aged 50 or older, who were genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's. Overall, those who got the drug did no better than those given a placebo. But in September, a closer look at the results revealed benefits for a subgroup of 125 people who had only mild memory problems when they started taking the drug."

NPR »

4 research-backed ways to beat the winter blues in the colder months

"As winter approaches and daylight saving time has ended, many people are bracing themselves for shorter days, colder weather, and what's often dismissed as the 'winter blues.' But these seasonal shifts are more than a passing inconvenience, and can disrupt people's energy, moods, and daily routines. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a condition that heightens depressive symptoms during the fall and winter months, while the 'winter blues' refers to a milder, temporary dip in mood. … Lower light levels affect brain chemistry by reducing serotonin — a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite — while keeping melatonin elevated during daylight hours, leading to sleepiness and fatigue. The good news is that with intention and evidence-based practices, winter can become a season of meaning, connection, and even joy."

The Conversation »

Finally, accounting software that doesn't charge rent

QuickBooks® Pro Plus 2024 gives you lifetime access to powerful, local accounting software built for small businesses, freelancers, and anyone who's ever rage-quit a spreadsheet. Manage invoices, track expenses, generate reports, and get your business finances in line without feeding another SaaS subscription monster. No cloud, no BS — just clean books and full control, forever. [Ad]

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The ultimate pet tech roundup: CNET's pet owners tested every device to find the best

"Do pets and technology mix? While you may not want to give your pet the latest iPhone as a chew toy, there is a myriad of high-tech products designed with pets and pet owners in mind. Some work to help pets live happier lives, while others seek to assuage the anxiety of pet owners. And yes, many use apps, AI features, and sensors to help out around the home. We pet owners at CNET banded together to review the latest gadgets and find out just what works best for our furry friends. Here's what we discovered, why we recommend trying these products and the differences they made in our pet's lives."

CNET »