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The success of DePIN is in all of our pockets

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The success of DePIN is in all of our pockets


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The following is a guest post from J.D. Seraphine, Founder and CEO at Raiinmaker.

In an era where technology advancements continuously reshape the landscape of our daily lives, mobile devices have emerged as an integral tool for driving connectivity. Growing hand in hand with this connectivity has been the public’s consciousness and concern for the security and privacy of their data, as well as their awareness of the suboptimally centralized nature of many of our legacy systems. 

Intriguingly, however, it is mobile devices, the source and driver of many of society’s privacy and security issues, that may hold the key to realizing a more decentralized and secure digital future via decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN). Smartphones, with their omnipresence, advanced capabilities, and seamless connectivity, provide the perfect platform to support and expand decentralized infrastructure and distributed networks. 

Additionally, Web3 phones are now hitting the market in earnest – just this month, Solana Mobile garnered $70 million in preorders for its second blockchain smartphone, Seeker, which is set to launch in 2025. Among its features, Seeker includes an upgraded crypto wallet and new reward mechanisms that are specifically tailored toward unlocking the transformational potential of DePIN.

DePIN as the Solution to the Crisis of Centralization

The recent technical issue with CrowdStrike’s centralized software – which led to a global outage affecting numerous sectors – again highlighted the issues created by the centralization of much of the core systems that the modern world relies upon, and the urgent need to move away from monolithic entities, towards a more decentralized future.

Projected to grow up to $3.5 trillion by 2028 – DePIN technology has emerged as one of the revolutionary advancements in the journey toward a more distributed world. DePIN projects seek to replace the existing centralized model by creating peer-to-peer (P2P) networks where individuals can contribute and own shared control over the network, ​​promoting active community participation, and giving users decision making authority. As well as decentralizing control, data is distributed across multiple nodes – making it less vulnerable to single points of failure, and attack from malicious actors.

Mobile Devices Key to Achieving DePIN at Scale

First and foremost, leveraging DePIN on mobile devices has the clear benefit of enhancing security through decentralized data distribution, providing users with greater control over their personal data, and addressing their privacy concerns. Additionally, for DePIN to really take off and provide a credible alternative to the current centralized system, a key requirement will be the ample availability of nodes to drive the efficiency and effectiveness of networks.

In the modern world, the ubiquity of mobile devices means that people are always connected, always online – the World Advertising Research Center (WARC) has predicted that by 2025 72.6% of internet users or nearly 3.7 billion people will access the web through their smartphones. This constant connectivity of the modern population is a crucial factor for DePIN technology, which relies on the network effect – the more people who are connected and contributing to the network, the more robust and efficient the network becomes. With smartphones in billions of people’s pockets, DePIN projects can leverage this vast, existing infrastructure to reach and engage users at an incredibly significant scale.

Taking things to the next level, mobile phones are becoming ever more powerful and capable – equipped with advanced processors, significant storage, and high-speed 5G internet connectivity. These capabilities make them ever-improving and ideal nodes in a decentralized network, capable of performing complex tasks, storing data securely, and communicating with other devices seamlessly. 

A recent study also reinforced the idea of mobile devices as catalysts for efficient decentralized infrastructure networks. The research found that by harnessing the power of mobile devices, projects can: enhance network efficiency and accessibility, promote decentralization by distributing computational tasks – reducing reliance on centralized data centers, and become more energy-efficient, contributing to sustainable network operations.

Clearly, the integration of mobile devices into DePINs has the very real potential to represent a significant step in the evolution of decentralized networks, improving accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability – offering a scaled alternative to the current centralized models and opening up more and more transformative real-world use cases.

Transformative Real-World Use Cases

It should also be stressed that while DePIN technology must scale further, it is not just a theoretical concept at this stage – it is already demonstrating its capabilities to transform critical infrastructure and create real-world impact across various industries, such as AI training and development, AI reputation management, telecommunications, and much more.

To explain further, training AI models requires massive amounts of data and computational power and therefore, access to powerful AI capabilities has been monopolized by major tech players. DePIN opens the door for individuals and smaller entities to harness the potential of AI, by leveraging a decentralized network of mobile devices that is more efficient and cost-effective.

This decentralized approach democratizes AI development, allowing more individuals and organizations to participate in and benefit from AI advancements. Projects like Render Network and VALDI are just some examples of this process already in action – and allow users worldwide to leverage decentralized infrastructure for AI, fostering inclusivity, and also sparking innovation from the ground up.

Similarly, DePIN has transformative potential in the realm of telecommunications – as the traditional infrastructure systems are centralized, expensive, and often fail to reach remote or underserved areas. A distributed network approach, pursued by projects like Helium, offers a decentralized alternative where individuals can share their internet connections, creating a community-driven network. This approach can significantly reduce costs and extend connectivity, addressing the urgent need to bridge the digital divide for the 3 billion people who still remain unconnected. This increase in connectivity has the added benefit of increasing the availability of mobile devices to act as nodes for DePIN projects, driving forward additional adoption.

These use cases are just a small glimpse into DePIN’s potential and illustrate the diverse applications across various industries, leveraging decentralized infrastructure to enhance efficiency, security, and sustainability.​

Path Forward

The path forward is clear – a mobile device-driven approach is key to the mass adoption of Web3 technologies, ​and key to realizing the full potential of DePIN to achieve scaled trustless networks built on reputation and present genuine alternatives to existing centralized solutions. 

The ubiquity of mobile devices around the world presents a major opportunity for DePIN to succeed, if we can just find ways to attract more and more people to participate, contribute, and benefit from decentralized networks. As more people join, the network becomes stronger and more robust, driving further adoption and creating a positive feedback loop.



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How Yellowstone’s Kelly Reilly Wants Beth Dutton’s Story To End – SlashFilm

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    How Yellowstone’s Kelly Reilly Wants Beth Dutton’s Story To End – SlashFilm






    Kelly Reilly may know how “Yellowstone” ends, but the actor who’s brought Beth Dutton to life on the hyper-popular Western show for five seasons and counting apparently wasn’t clued in early to her own character’s ending. Before news that the final batch of episodes (which is technically season 5b, despite a nearly two-year hiatus) will drop in November broke, Reilly spoke to TVLine about Beth’s future, which is undoubtedly up in the air after her and her brother Jamie (Wes Bentley) pretty much vowed to kill each other the last time we saw them.

    “What would I hope for her? Peace, I think,” Reilly told TVLine, ahead of the final episodes filming. “I know the ending of the show, which I’ve known for six years,” she admitted. “We all knew what the ending would be.” In a separate interview with Entertainment Weekly, Reilly said that series creator Taylor Sheridan told her how the show as a whole would wrap up during filming on season 1. Still, that doesn’t stop the actor from dreaming of a happy ending for fiery Beth, a fan favorite character who sometimes seems to court chaos. “I certainly believe that she can find that,” Reilly told the outlet. “Whether or not that’s possible, I don’t know. She’s such a warrior, isn’t she? Her reason to be is to protect. Her reason to be is to fight.”

    The actor noted that Beth has been close to finding happiness in the past, but it seems that the show — by virtue of essentially being a primetime soap about double-crosses, power grabs, and murder — always seems to have something else in mind. “I question potentially whether happiness is allowed,” Reilly admitted. “Over the seasons, we’ve been able to see where it might exist. But she’s taken out of it so quickly. Maybe there’s a future where she’s not sort of yanked out of her happiness.” If that future does exist, it might not be on “Yellowstone,” but on something that could come after. Despite the cast and crew verifying that the hit flagship series really is ending, it’s also been reported that Reilly and Cole Hauser, who plays Beth’s husband Rip Wheeler, are in talks to continue their characters’ stories.

    Beth’s story might not end anytime soon

    Reilly confirmed that something might be up Paramount’s sleeve in a recent interview, saying, “There’s potentially another chapter. It’s being talked about now.” She also noted that she’d be on board if Sheridan returned to write the show, adding, “He’s the one that’s written every single line I’ve ever said. [Beth] came from his imagination.” Reilly reassuringly noted that the pair are also “in agreement that there’s a shift that has to take place” so that the “Yellowstone” universe doesn’t start repeating itself. Maybe that means Beth could finally get a taste of the peace Reilly wants for her while still appearing in a future series in some capacity.

    Reilly’s “if” here is also a big one: Sheridan is notoriously busy, and “Yellowstone” star Kevin Costner has said that he eventually left the series because the screenwriter, who was working on several other shows at the time, stopped turning in scripts (a network rep has disputed this claim). It would probably be wise for the chronic multitasker to focus on future incarnations of the show that’s already super-beloved rather than the half-dozen or more other plates he has spinning, and to keep Reilly involved in any future storyline. As for the idea that Beth Dutton could one day find peace? The actor said it will take work. “Peace requires some digging and some surrender and letting go of old pains and hurts,” she told TVLine. That doesn’t exactly sound like the Beth fans know and love, but it would be nice to see.

    “Yellowstone” returns to Paramount Network on November 10, 2024.



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    Is Crypto.com Safe? Learn about its Security Measures

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    Is Crypto.com Safe? Learn about its Security Measures


    When considering trading cryptocurrency, many people are looking for reliable platforms. Crypto.com is one of the safest crypto exchanges. But, is Crypto.com safe to use? This guide explores the security measures, the risks involved, and what users can do to protect their investments at Crypto.com.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Crypto.com exchange is highly secure with safety measures such as 2FA, cold storage, anti-phishing code, withdrawal address whitelisting, and transparent PoR data.Crypto.com provides FDIC insurance for U.S. users’ fiat balances, up to $250,000.They offer a HackerOne Bug Bounty program to continuously strengthen their system by encouraging responsible vulnerability reporting.

    Crypto.com Exchange Overview

    Crypto.com, founded in 2016, has rapidly grown into one of the largest crypto exchange platforms globally, with over 100 million users. The company has positioned itself as a leader in regulatory compliance, holding licenses across multiple jurisdictions, including the UK, Singapore, and France. This broad regulatory footprint is key to its commitment to user safety and trust. 

    Crypto.com’s platform supports a wide range of services, including cryptocurrency trading, staking, and payments, and has expanded into sectors such as NFTs and decentralized finance (DeFi). Its daily trading volume often exceeds billions, with the platform processing significant spot and derivatives trades. It also offers margin trading with up to 5x leverage.

    Crypto.com leads in decentralized finance (DeFi) by offering you access to services like yield farming, staking, and liquidity pools. Its native token, Cronos (CRO), plays a key role in these activities. When you hold CRO, you get benefits such as earning rewards and lower trading fees. Read our full Crypto.com review for more information.

    Is Crypto.com Safe: 10 Security Measures

    Yes, Crypto.com is one of the best crypto exchanges that employs a wide range of security measures to safeguard your funds and personal data. Thanks to a layered approach that includes everything from offline cold storage to advanced encryption protocols. 

    Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 security measures that Crypto.com uses to ensure your peace of mind:

    Cold Wallet Storage

    One of the most crucial aspects of Crypto.com’s security strategy is its use of cold wallet storage for the majority of user funds. Keeping cold wallets offline and disconnected from the internet makes them much less susceptible to hacking attacks. In fact, over 90% of all user funds are stored in cold wallets, a standard practice among major cryptocurrency exchanges.

    Hot wallets, which are used for day-to-day crypto transactions, only hold a minimal amount of assets necessary to maintain liquidity. This division between cold and hot wallets ensures that even if the hot wallet is compromised, the impact on user assets is minimal. 

    The cold wallet strategy is reinforced by multi-signature wallet protocols, which require multiple approvals from different parties before any transaction can be made from these wallets. This minimizes the risk of internal fraud or unauthorized access.

    Additionally, Crypto.com’s cold wallet storage is secured in institutional-grade vaults. These vaults are located in geographically dispersed locations to reduce the risk of a single point of failure. Even in a physical attack or a natural disaster, the distributed nature of these vaults ensures your funds remain secure.

    Anti-Phishing Code Set Up

    Phishing attacks are a major threat in crypto, where attackers often try to impersonate official platforms to steal user credentials. To counter this, Crypto.com offers the option to set up an anti-phishing code. This is a personalized code that appears in all legitimate emails from Crypto.com, allowing you to quickly identify whether an email is from the official platform or a phishing attempt.

    In addition to the anti-phishing code, the platform’s email and communication protocols are secured using the latest Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption standards. This ensures that all communications between the platform and your email are encrypted, reducing the risk of interception.

    Manage & Set Up Anti-Phishing Code

    Multi-Factor Authentication (2FA)

    Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is another critical layer in Crypto.com’s security framework. By requiring at least two methods of verification – such as a password and a one-time code from an authentication app – MFA significantly reduces the chances of unauthorized access to your account.

    Crypto.com goes beyond the standard MFA. It supports multiple forms of verification, including SMS-based codes, app-based authenticators like Google Authenticator, and even biometric verification through fingerprints or facial recognition. This guarantees that, even if your password is breached, an intruder cannot enter your account without the additional authentication method.

    It’s also important to note that MFA is required for all sensitive actions on the platform, not just login attempts. This includes withdrawals, password changes, and the modification of key account settings. For additional protection, Crypto.com mandates MFA for the activation of API keys, which are used by more advanced users to automate trading or access their accounts programmatically.

    Secure Software Development Life Cycle

    Crypto.com integrates security from the very beginning of its software development process through a Secure Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). This approach involves security audits and testing at every stage of development. 

    Each new feature or update is peer-reviewed, and both static and dynamic source code analysis tools are used to catch potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

    The SDLC process is not limited to internal teams; external security firms are also involved in auditing Crypto.com’s codebase. For example, Kudelski Security, a globally recognized firm, regularly performs third-party security assessments. This ensures that Crypto.com’s security practices are up to date with the latest industry standards.

    Moreover, the platform employs real-time monitoring tools that track network traffic and application behavior for any signs of anomalous activity. Any detected anomalies are flagged and addressed immediately, further reducing the risk of zero-day exploits or emerging threats.

    Withdrawal Address Whitelisting

    Crypto.com has strengthened its withdrawal security by introducing address whitelisting. This feature allows users to restrict withdrawals to specific, pre-approved wallet addresses. Here’s how it works:

    You can pre-approve specific crypto withdrawal addresses like USDT (BEP20) address or Bitcoin (BTC network) in your account settings.Funds can only be withdrawn to these whitelisted addresses.Adding a new withdrawal address requires email verification and has a 24-hour waiting period.

    This 24-hour cooling-off period provides extra security, ensuring that even if an attacker gains access to your account, they cannot instantly withdraw funds to their own wallet.

    To further secure your assets, the platform also requires email verification for every withdrawal request. This means that you must confirm all transactions via email before transferring funds, adding one more safeguard to the process.

    Proof of Reserves (PoR)

    Proof of Reserves (PoR) System

    Crypto.com uses a Proof of Reserves (PoR) system to ensure transparency regarding the platform’s financial stability. This system lets you confirm that your assets are fully backed by the platform’s reserves, addressing any concerns about the possibility of insolvency (similar to FTX).

    The Proof of Reserves process is conducted by independent auditors from the Mazars Group, who regularly check and verify Crypto.com’s assets. They publish reports to confirm that the platform holds enough assets to match all customer balances. This guarantees that your funds are backed 1:1, and you can withdraw them at any time. 

    To ensure all reserves are properly accounted for, cryptographic methods are used during the auditing process, which further increases transparency. A key part of this system is the use of Merkle Trees. A Merkle Tree is a structure that organizes large amounts of data, making it easier to verify and audit. In this case, it allows you to confirm that your individual assets are included in the total reserves without revealing any sensitive account information.

    Here is the current fund reserve ratio by Crypto.com:

    In-Scope AssetReserve RatioBTC (Bitcoin)102%ETH (Ethereum)101%USDC (USD Coin)102%USDT (Tether)106%XRP (Ripple)101%DOGE (Dogecoin)101%SHIB (Shiba Inu)102%LINK (Chainlink)101%MANA (Decentraland)102%

    (Source: Mazars Group Audit)

    User Funds Stored in Custodian Bank Accounts

    When you hold fiat currencies on Crypto.com, your funds are kept in regulated custodian bank accounts, adding an extra layer of protection for your non-crypto assets. If you’re a U.S. resident, your money is placed with Community Federal Savings Bank or other FDIC-insured banks

    This gives you coverage of up to $250,000 per depositor in case the bank fails. However, it’s important to understand that FDIC insurance only applies to your fiat balances. It doesn’t cover losses if Crypto.com itself fails or in cases of fraud or theft.

    This setup ensures that, even if Crypto.com faces financial troubles, you have fiat currency security in place. For those outside the U.S., Crypto.com works with regulated institutions in different regions to comply with local financial rules.

    24/7 Customer Support

    If you have any security concerns, Crypto.com offers customer support 24/7 to help you right away. Whether you’re having trouble accessing your account, notice suspicious activity, or need help setting up extra security like MFA, the support team is always there to assist.

    Crypto.com’s team is trained to handle security issues quickly, making sure any threats to your account are dealt with fast. This quick support is especially helpful during stressful times, like a market crash or account lockout, when fast help can really make a difference.

    Certifications and Assessments

    Crypto.com is among the most certified platforms in the cryptocurrency industry. It holds certifications for ISO/IEC 27001:2022, ISO/IEC 27701:2019, and PCI DSS v4.0 Level 1, which are internationally recognized standards for information security and data privacy management.

    Furthermore, Crypto.com has achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance, demonstrating that it has controls in place to protect user data and ensure privacy.

    Hacker One Bug Bounty

    Crypto.com runs a HackerOne Bug Bounty Program, inviting ethical hackers from all over the world to find and report any weaknesses in the platform. By offering rewards for responsible reporting, Crypto.com makes sure even small security problems are fixed quickly before they can be taken advantage of by bad actors.

    Here is a table showing the rewards offered in the program:

    Risk LevelRewardsLow$200 – $500Medium$500 – $5,000High$5,000 – $30,000Critical$30,000 – $80,000

    How to Stay Safe While Using Crypto.com?

    Although Crypto.com provides numerous security measures, here are some additional tips to avoid crypto scams and further protect your account:

    Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Always enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your account. You can use an authenticator app or SMS verification to receive a one-time code whenever you log in or perform sensitive actions.Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Use a strong, unique password that combines letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words or easily guessable information, such as your birthdate or name. Regularly Monitor Your Account Activity: Keep an eye on your account activity by checking your transaction history regularly. If you notice anything unusual, report it to Crypto.com’s customer support immediately. Beware of Phishing Attempts: Be vigilant about phishing attempts, as scammers often try to impersonate Crypto.com through fake emails or websites. Always double-check the URL before entering your credentials, and ensure that the site is secure (look for “https://” in the address). Crypto.com will never ask you for your password via email, so be cautious of any communication that requests sensitive information.Keep Your Devices Secure: Keep your operating systems, antivirus software, and applications updated to protect against malware and other vulnerabilities. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to access your account. If you must use a public network, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data.Consider Hardware Wallets for Long-Term Storage: If you plan to hold large amounts of cryptocurrency for an extended period, consider using a hardware wallet for storage. Hardware wallets store your private keys offline. Use the App’s Security Features: Features like address whitelisting for withdrawals add an extra layer of security, ensuring that only approved addresses can receive your funds. You can also set withdrawal limits to reduce the risk of losing large amounts in case of unauthorized access.

    Final Thought: Is Crypto.com Safe in 2024?

    In a nutshell, Crypto.com has invested heavily in security, offering a range of protective measures for its users. From cold wallet storage and multi-factor authentication to high-level certifications and external audits, the platform is committed to safeguarding your funds. Additionally, with their Account Protection Program (APP), eligible users have up to $250,000 in coverage for unauthorized transactions.

    The platform also engages top-tier security auditors and partners with ethical hackers to continually assess its security posture. For 2024, Crypto.com appears to be one of the more secure and transparent cryptocurrency platforms, making it a good choice for anyone looking to buy, sell, or hold digital assets.

    FAQs

    Is Crypto.com App Safe?

    Yes, the Crypto.com app uses best-in-class security features like MFA, biometric authentication, and HSM (Hardware Security Module) for key management. Additionally, the app is regularly updated with security patches and improvements to address any vulnerabilities.

    Is Crypto.com regulated and licensed?

    Crypto.com is a well-regulated crypto trading platform across several jurisdictions. It holds an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which allows it to offer e-money services in compliance with local regulations. 

    In Singapore, it has a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license from the MAS. The platform is also registered as a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) in France under the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF). 

    Additionally, Crypto.com has received regulatory approvals in countries like Australia, South Korea, and Italy, ensuring compliance with their financial and anti-money laundering (AML) standards.

    Has crypto.com ever been hacked?

    Crypto.com has faced security challenges, with the most notable incident occurring in January 2022. During this breach, unauthorized withdrawals affected 483 Crypto.com users, totaling 4,836.26 ETH, 443.93 BTC, and approximately US$66,200 in other cryptocurrencies. In response, Crypto.com took immediate action to enhance its security measures and protect user funds. In response, the APP restores funds up to USD$250,000 for qualified users.

    Which is better, Crypto.com or Coinbase for user safety?

    When comparing Crypto.com and Coinbase in terms of user safety, both platforms take strong measures to protect users. Coinbase is highly regarded for its robust security protocols, including cold storage of 98% of assets, insurance against theft, and strong two-factor authentication (2FA). It is also one of the few exchanges publicly, providing greater transparency. 

    Crypto.com, on the other hand, emphasizes security through features like hardware security modules (HSMs) and has obtained ISO/IEC 27701:2019 certification for privacy and security management. Both exchanges also offer insurance coverage.

    Is crypto.com safe for beginners?

    Crypto.com is considered a legitimate crypto app for beginners. It provides a user-friendly interface with a range of educational resources that can help newcomers navigate the crypto space.

    With regulatory licenses in key jurisdictions and an easy-to-use mobile app, it supports users from basic crypto purchases to more advanced financial tools like staking and crypto debit cards. Additionally, its compliance with international security standards provides reassurance to new users about the safety of their funds.

    Can I safely withdraw money from Crypto.com to a bank account?

    Yes, you can safely withdraw money from Crypto.com to your bank account. The crypto exchange allows users to transfer funds by linking a bank account and initiating a withdrawal through the mobile app or web platform. The process is straightforward. The transfer time can vary depending on bank and location, usually a few hours to a couple of business days. You can also link your credit or debit card.



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    Hispanic Heritage Month- Celebrating Hispanic Fashion Icons – University of Fashion Blog

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    Hispanic Heritage Month- Celebrating Hispanic Fashion Icons – University of Fashion Blog


    We hope you caught our blogpost, Celebrating Hispanic & Latino Contributions to Fashion – The Newbies, where we showcased the new crop of Hispanic fashion designers that rely upon their native heritage for inspiration. This week, we continue our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, but this time the focus will be on those iconic Hispanic-American brands that have already secured their place in the global fashion community.

    Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15) is a celebration of the Hispanic and Latino community’s contributions to the United States and to the world at large.

    In contrast to the Hispanic newbie designers, the Hispanic Icon designers seem to rely less on their native heritage and more on Western sources of inspiration. Could they fear ‘appropriation backlash’, or have they just moved on from their roots? Whatever the reason, the newbies are definitely tapping into a new surge of patriotism. Either way, Hispanic designers continue to be an important part of the global world of fashion.   

    Oscar de la Renta – Santo Domingo, Dominica RepublicOscar de la Renta's final collection

    Oscar de la Renta used influences from his tenure at European houses Balenciaga, Lanvin & Balmain. (Image Credit: 303magazine.com – Oscar de la Renta’s last collection 2014)

    For example, Oscar de la Renta relied heavily on his European couture background and less from his native home, Santa Domingo, to create his American luxury brand. Though he claimed to have been inspired by Spain, bullfighting, nature, art history and diverse cultures, he was most inspired by the women who wore his clothes.

    Carolina Herrera – Caracas, VenezuelaCarolina Herrera collection

    Examples of the “Herrera silhouette” by Carolina Herrera (Image Credit Beautykiss.com)

    With the exception of the “Herrera silhouette” (a fitted bodice with a full skirt often cinched at the waist with a belt inspired by the traditional dresses of South America), Carolina Herrera is most known for elegant, timeless, feminine clothes and less about her native Caracas.

    Maria Cornejo – Chile

    Maria Cornejo collection

    Zero + Maria Cornejo (Image Credit: ZeroMariaCornejo.com)

    Chilean-born Maria Cornejo moved to England as a political refugee with her family in 1973. Having spent years in England and Paris, she moved to New York City in 1996.  Her work is guided, not by her Chilean roots, but with a focus on creating sustainable, wearable luxury for real women.

    Narcisco Rodriquez – first generation Cuban-AmericanNarciso Rodriquez collection Narcisco Rodriquez- (Image Credit: NarciscoRodriquez.com)

    Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey to first generation Cuban immigrants, Narcisco Rodriquez claims that his Latin heritage has always informed the ethos of his work with a celebration of a strong feminine spirit and the inherent beauty of the female body.

    Manolo Blahnik – Santa Cruz de la Palma, in the Canary Islands (Spain)Manolo Blahnik shoesAssorted Manolo Blahnik footwear (Image Credit: ManoloBlahnik.com)

    Blahnik was born in Santa Cruz de la Palma, in the Canary Islands (Spain), to a Czech father and Spanish mother. He is most known for his signature line of high-end women’s footwear, using luxurious, decorative and opulent additions such as chains, feathers, furs, fringe, grommets, ribbons, rings, silk brocade, lace and his famous buckle shoe the Hangisi.

    Gabriela Hearst – Santa Isabel in Paysandu, UruguayGabriela Hearst collection

    Gabriela Hearst’s collection 2024 (Image Credit: TheCut.com)

    Growing up on her family’s 17,000-acre ranch in Paysandu, Paraguay, Gabriela Hearst took over the operations of the ranch in 2015 and created a brand that reflects “luxury with a conscience”. For example, she created jackets and coats lined with special silver fabric that prevent cell phone radiation from reaching women’s reproductive organs. Hearst was Creative Director at Chloé from 2020 – 2023 and the first female Latin American designer to take the helm of a Paris fashion house. She is a true champion of using low-impact textiles, sustainable production and recycled packaging.

    Victor Glemaud – HaitiVictor Gleamed collection

    Victor Glemaud Collection 2023 (Image Credit: VictorGlemaud.com)

    Victor Glemaud was born in Haiti but moved to the US when he was three. In 2006, he launched his eponymous designer collection of statement knitwear, designed for all people, genders, races, sizes, and personalities. His career took several detours, but in 2016 he launched his eponymous collection and eventually found his way back to fashion. He won the CFDA new-comer award in 2017 and in 2020 established IN THE BLK, a collective of Black creatives who work together to promote Black-owned fashion brands.

    Tell us, do you have a favorite Hispanic or Latino designer?



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    Strictly fans divided over first tens for Tasha and Aljaz

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      Strictly fans divided over first tens for Tasha and Aljaz


      It was a milestone episode of Strictly Come Dancing tonight (October 12) with the 10 paddles finally making their first appearance of this year’s series!

      Love Island star Tasha Ghouri closed another high-scoring show with not one but three 10s for a festival-themed Charleston with Aljaz Skorjanec.

      Tasha and Aljaz on Strictly

      Tasha continues to divide Strictly Come Dancing viewers (Credit: BBC)

      Several Strictly viewers have previously expressed concern that Tasha, who has worked professionally as a dancer, has an unfair advantage over her fellow celebrity contestants, many of whom have never danced before.

      And it seems her almost perfect score has likewise been met with mixed opinions.

      Tasha tens divide Strictly viewers

      As Tasha (and her mum in the audience!) wiped away tears at her impressive score of 39, many fans took to social media to congratulate her.

      Tasha scores 39 on Strictly

      Tasha Ghouri danced an almost-perfect Charleston (Credit: BBC)

      One person tweeted: “FAB-U-LOUS! A 10 from me best dance of the night, completely deserves the first 9 from Craig (I think?) and the first 10s and 3 sets of 10s in fact! Phenomenal swivels, lifts & flips (lifts into the splits wow!) and so much amazing technique!”

      Some else agreed: “Tasha is phenomenonal.”

      “OMG Tasha.” Said a third.

      One person even suggested Tasha had been undermarked, saying: “Tasha with the 39 is so deserved but i need her to get a 40.”

      However others seemed less convinced by the judges’ perfect scores.

      “Sorry but Tasha is overmarked.” One person said.

      “I love tasha and Aljaž but she does have a slight upper hand with being an experienced dancing etc.” Someone else pointed out.

      Another person tweeted passionately: “What a hot mess in the scoring tonight! Not sure Tasha deserved Tens.”

      “10’s for Tasha already…” questioned another.

      Strictly Come Dancing continues next Saturday (October 19) at 18.25 on BBC One.

      For all the latest Strictly Come Dancing news head to our dedicated Facebook page here.

      Read More: Strictly Come Dancing viewers express concern for Nick Knowles

      YouTube video player

      Would you have given Tasha a ten? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.





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      What Is ‘Off the Grid’? The Buzzy Battle Royale Shooter Built on Avalanche – Decrypt

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      What Is ‘Off the Grid’? The Buzzy Battle Royale Shooter Built on Avalanche – Decrypt


      If you’ve been on the online shooter video game portion of the internet over the last few days, then you’ve likely heard of Off the Grid, a brand new battle royale game that is picking up serious steam with players. Off the Grid has already topped the Epic Games Store’s list of the most popular free-to-play games, plus it’s commanding huge crowds on Twitch. In short: It’s a hit.

      But what you might not know is that Off the Grid is a blockchain game built on Avalanche, with plans for a crypto token and the ability to mint rare items as tradeable NFTs. While these features aren’t yet fully implemented, it’s fair to say that Off the Grid has already made a bigger splash with mainstream gamers than any previous blockchain game—and the future looks bright.

      Here’s what you need to know about Off the Grid, the current early access release, and the crypto and NFT plans ahead.

      What is Off the Grid? 

      Off the Grid is a new third-person battle royale shooter that has launched into early access on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via the Epic Games Store.

      A screenshot from Off the Grid in early access. Image: Decrypt

      Set in a fictional future where cybernetics can augment humans to make them even more deadly, you and two teammates will jump onto the sizable city map and fight it out against other trios to be the last ones standing, just like any good battle royale game.

      However, Off The Grid touts itself as an Extraction Royale, adding in some extraction shooter style mechanics as well. In matches, you can find what are essentially loot boxes, and if you either hold them as you win, or manage to extract them at certain locations on the map, then you can use them to unlock cosmetic items or new weapons and skills for your loadouts.

      Off the Grid is developed by Gunzilla Games, a studio co-founded by “District 9” and “Chappie” film director Neill Blomkamp—and as the studio’s chief creative officer, his style is strongly felt throughout the game.

      The game is built around a future competition that essentially turns the battle royale premise into a televised competition between cybernetically-augmented humans. And unlike battle royale games like Fortnite and Apex Legends, Off the Grid promises 60 hours of narrative-driven gameplay, with cinematics that bookend matches and provide added flavor and motivation to the experience.

      How do I play Off the Grid?

      To play Off The Grid in early access, you simply need to download the free-to-play game on your chosen platform and boot it up, but it’s not quite as simple as it sounds. It’s available on the Epic Games Store on PC, as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S, and it can be downloaded freely on all of those platforms.

      A screenshot from Off the Grid in early access. Image: Decrypt

      Once you have the game downloaded, you simply need to boot it up and play your first game. It’s pretty easy to pick up if you’ve ever played a battle royale before, and there’s already a ton of guides available on the web.

      The early access version contains just one mode (Extraction Royale) and the single, but very large map, though the future full release is expected to pack more modes and content.

      Where does crypto come in?

      In the initial early access build, there’s no obvious crypto integration. But it’s apparently humming along in the background, and there’s more coming on the horizon.

      Off the Grid is being built on GUNZ, a dedicated L1 (or subnet) on the Avalanche blockchain network. Currently, GUNZ is on testnet and the network’s GUN token has yet to go live on mainnet, but those moves are on the horizon. Items in the game are denominated in GUN, which you can also earn by completing missions, however it’s effectively an in-game currency for now since the token isn’t live on mainnet.

      A screenshot from Off the Grid in early access. Image: Decrypt

      However, the game is racking up some serious numbers on the GUNZ testnet, with millions of wallets created during the first week of early access, along with millions of daily transactions. We haven’t gotten full clarity yet from Gunzilla Games on how this works, but it appears that a testnet wallet is created when a user starts playing the game.

      Eventually, when the GUNZ network launches its mainnet, Gunzilla has said that players will be able to mint items as unique NFTs, which can be traded and sold on marketplaces and within the game itself. Gunzilla created the GUNZ network to let other developers utilize the tech, as well, so the ambition is for the GUN token to be usable across multiple games in the future.

      When will Off The Grid launch? 

      There’s no word on when the full game release will come, but for now the early access launch appears to be going down well. Gunzilla Games enlisted (aka paid) major streamers like Tyler “Ninja” Blevins and Seth “Scump” Abner to play the game for hours and hours during the launch week for their sizable audiences, and that investment appears to be paying off with buzz.

      We’ll see whether Off the Grid can hold onto that initial momentum as the game evolves and expands in the near future, and whether mainstream gamers take kindly to the ability to mint and trade NFTs and utilize the future GUN token.

      Edited by Andrew Hayward

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      Best-selling video games in the U.S. in August 2024 – WholesGame

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      Best-selling video games in the U.S. in August 2024 – WholesGame


      In August 2024, the U.S. video game market saw a significant decline in spending, despite some notable successes in specific sectors like mobile gaming and EA Sports titles. According to Circana, consumer spending dropped by 7% compared to the same period in 2023, amounting to $4.1 billion. The most substantial decline was in hardware sales, which fell by 36% year-over-year to $208 million. The Nintendo Switch experienced the sharpest drop with sales plunging by 41%, while the PlayStation 5 continued to hold its position as the best-selling console for the month.

      On the content side, which includes full game purchases, downloadable content (DLC), subscriptions, and microtransactions across platforms such as console, PC, mobile, and virtual reality, there was a 5% decrease in spending, reaching $3.7 billion. However, Sensor Tower, a mobile analytics firm, reported a contrasting trend in mobile game spending, noting a 5% increase over the previous year.

      EA’s Madden NFL 25 took the top spot as August’s best-selling game, marking the 25th consecutive year that the Madden franchise has led in its release month. EA Sports College Football 25, which was last month’s chart leader, came in second but still holds the title of the best-selling game of 2024 so far. This performance was achieved without including sales from the EA Sports MVP Bundle, which packages deluxe editions of both Madden NFL and College Football and ranked as the fourth-best seller in August.

      Several other titles made their debut in the top 20 in August. Ubisoft’s highly anticipated Star Wars: Outlaws landed at No. 3, followed by Visions of Mana from Square Enix at No. 10, and Bandai Namco’s Gundam Breaker 4 at No. 11.

      Despite the decline in August, the year-to-date figures for the U.S. video game industry remain stable, with a slight increase of 1%, totaling $36.3 billion. Video game content spending has risen by 4% to $32.3 billion for the first eight months of the year. However, hardware sales continue to struggle, down by 28% to $2.3 billion over the same period.

      The top 20 selling games list, led by Madden NFL 25 and followed by EA Sports College Football and Star Wars: Outlaws, underscores the ongoing dominance of sports titles in the U.S. market, as well as the strong interest in major new releases.

      1. Madden NFL 252. EA Sports College Football3. Star Wars: Outlaws4. EA Sports MVP Bundle5. Elden Ring6. Hogwarts Legacy7. Minecraft8. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 39. Marvel’s Spider-Man 210. Visions of Mana



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      How AI and Advanced Hardware Are Shaping Our Digital Future

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      How AI and Advanced Hardware Are Shaping Our Digital Future


      In Brief

      Artificial intelligence advancements have significantly impacted the metaverse, leading to a shift in IT corporations’ objectives and the introduction of wearable technology for immersive experiences.

      How AI and Advanced Hardware Are Shaping Our Digital Future

      The fast advancement of artificial intelligence has had a substantial impact on the trajectory of the metaverse. The early fervor around virtual worlds has given way to a more sober perspective that emphasizes useful applications and the incorporation of artificial intelligence technology. Major IT corporations have reevaluated their objectives as a result of this change, with some allocating money from AI development to metaverse projects.

      The introduction of the latest hardware has been one of the most noteworthy advances in the metaverse scene. The wearable technology of Apple’s mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, Meta’s smart glasses, and Ray-Ban both mark progress. With the goal of providing consumers with immersive experiences that bridge the gap between virtual and augmented reality, these gadgets seek to seamlessly integrate digital material with the real environment.

      Nonetheless, a number of issues have prevented the metaverse from being widely adopted. Infrastructure restrictions, like the requirement for high-quality internet connections and powerful AI processors, remain key impediments. In addition, many prospective customers are still concerned about the cost and processing capability of the gadgets.

      Notwithstanding these challenges, work is still being done to provide the groundwork for a stronger metaverse ecology. The merging of AI and virtual worlds is likely to change content production within these digital environments. AI-powered technologies like ChatGPT may eventually enable creators to create whole virtual worlds, possibly altering the way people interact with and build digital locations.

      Additionally, the metaverse’s AI integration should improve user engagement and interactions. Artificial intelligence technologies have the potential to enhance virtual worlds’ intuitiveness, responsiveness, and personalization, hence facilitating prolonged and deeper user immersion.

      Considerable progress has been made in the regulatory domain to influence the metaverse’s future. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) held its inaugural meeting on the subject in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of its efforts to support pre-standardization projects for the metaverse. With this event, a focus group tasked with creating a roadmap for technical standards was established, and a worldwide discussion on metaverse standards was launched.

      Similar to this, the European Commission has established a plan for virtual worlds and Web 4.0 with the goal of guaranteeing an inclusive, safe, and open digital environment. The three main objectives of this approach are to empower users, assist the European Web 4.0 industrial ecosystem, and develop international standards for virtual worlds that are interoperable.

      With the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announcing intentions to organize a working group tasked with creating standards for the metaverse, China has also entered the race. This project emphasizes how the metaverse is developing on a global scale and how crucial it is for nations to work together to set rules and guidelines.

      Regulators in the US are moving to support the technical specifications of metaverse technology. It is anticipated that the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to permit extremely low-power devices, such as AR and VR headsets, to utilize the 6 GHz band would speed up data transfers and lessen interference, resolving some of the technical issues that the creation of the metaverse has to deal with.

      The metaverse’s corporate environment is also changing. There are indications of a strategic reversal even if certain businesses, like Meta, have made investments in the metaverse. Given the company’s current emphasis on AI research, several analysts have theorized that it may abandon its goals for the metaverse. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that these technologies are not mutually exclusive, and AI breakthroughs may eventually enhance metaverse experiences.

      Some businesses are looking to find creative methods to incorporate metaverse ideas into already-existing platforms. For instance, Starbucks and Dubit have teamed to provide virtual storefronts in well-known Roblox role-playing games. This program allows users to purchase virtual beverages, communicate with other gamers, and participate in treasure hunts that can lead to real-world prizes. These kinds of initiatives show how virtual experiences may be combined with real-world advantages to create new kinds of client loyalty and engagement.

      The game industry continues to play a vital role in creating metaverse technology and consumer expectations. Metaverse concepts are already being tested on platforms like Roblox, which lets marketers try out virtual stores and immersive marketing campaigns. These projects are increasing user interaction while also offering insightful information about the possible metaverse economic structures.

      South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT has launched a metaverse plan that comprises ethical principles focusing on honest identity, safe experience, and sustainable prosperity. This approach acknowledges the inherent hazards connected with immersive virtual worlds and tries to build a framework for responsible development and usage.

      The metaverse’s future is still unknown; its final shape and significance are still up in the air. Even if the initial excitement may have died down, continued technical developments—especially in the areas of technology and artificial intelligence — keep expanding the possibilities in virtual worlds. The combination of blockchain technology and decentralized systems may also play a role in developing the metaverse, perhaps allowing new kinds of digital ownership and economy.

      Disclaimer

      In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

      About The Author

      Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

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      Victoria d’Este

      Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.



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      A Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024

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        A Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024


        NFT communities are known for being dedicated, engaged and passionate – and one community embodies those traits above all others: DeGods.

        Since minting on Solana in 2021, thanks to its transparent leadership, culture-focused direction and community-first mantra, it’s quickly become one of the most widely-known and well-liked NFT collections amongst blockchain enthusiasts – but how did it get to where it is today?

        Here’s our complete 2024 guide to DeGods.

        A Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024 - NFT

        What is DeGods?

        DeGods is a collection of 10,000 unique avatar NFTs, originally minted on Solana in October 2021. Each DeGod has a mix of traits; from backgrounds and hairstyles to clothing, eyewear and other accessories.

        The collection rapidly gained popularity thanks to its unique utility. Holders were able to mine the $DUST token, with future initiatives including access to NFT tracking app DYOR, exclusive merch and more.

        DeGods is a product of DeLabs, a company with three main figures; Frank DeGods (Rohun Vora), Kevin DeGods (Kevin Henrikson), and Finn DeGods – who announced his departure in August 2023. DeLabs also created the y00ts NFT collection in November 2022, and continues to manage both collections to this day.

        As of today, DeGods exist on all three leading NFT blockchains: Solana, Ethereum and Bitcoin, and holders continue to benefit from an expanding list of features and utility, including conversions into DeadGods NFTs (using $DUST), access to DeDAO, and – most recently – interactions with the $DEGOD token.

        A Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024 - TokenA Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024 - Token

        The history of DeGods

        DeGods were minted on October 8, 2021, priced at 3 SOL. A combination of demand and technical issues saw all 10,000 NFTs sell out in 7 seconds.

        To mitigate an anticipated decline of floor prices, DeGods instituted the “Paper Hands Bitch Tax”, a 33.3% tax on anyone who listed their DeGods below the floor price. Any funds collected from this tax were used to buy and burn DeGods NFTs, reducing the overall supply.

        By the time the Paper Hands Bitch Tax was halted on January 1, 2022, the total supply had been reduced to 9,465 – but that was just the start of the innovative moves made by the collection.

        In January 2022, DeGods introduced the $DUST token – and with it, the DeadGods. Holders could stake their DeGods to earn $DUST, which could then be used to upgrade their DeGods into DeadGods at the cost of 1,000 $DUST. This revitalized interest, and addressed aesthetic issues with DeGods.

        April 2022 saw DeDAO decide to purchase Big3 Basketball team Killer 3’s for $625,000 USD, giving DeGods its first mainstream exposure, and giving holders options to benefit from the IP and licensing rights of the team – as well as opportunities to purchase ownership stakes in the form of NFTs.

        December 2022 saw DeGods announce plans to move from Solana to Ethereum, completed in March 2023 – but not before the previously burned 535 DeGods made their return as Bitcoin Ordinals in February 2023.

        The chain-hopping wouldn’t stop there, as in May 2024, DeGods made the shock move to migrate both DeGods and y00ts (which had spent the last year on Polygon) back to Solana, with a bridge now supporting the existence of DeGods on Solana, Bitcoin and Ethereum.

        September 2024 saw DeGods release the $DEGOD token – but as with all things DeGods, they took a unique approach. Holders are able to:

        Swap a DeGod NFT for 550,000 $DEGOD tokensBurn a y00ts NFT for 120,000 $DEGOD tokens (regardless of rarity), orBurn 1 $DUST token for 36 $DEGOD tokens

        Reactions were mixed, with many worried about the impact of tying DeGods directly to a token could have on floor prices. In the short-term, DeGods have declined from 2.00 ETH on September 16 to 0.94 ETH at the time of writing – but the long-term effects are yet to be known.

        A Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024 - y00tsA Complete Guide to DeGods in 2024 - y00ts

        What’s ahead for DeGods?

        DeGods always stride forward confidently – indeed the team have stated that “DeGod” stands for “do everything great or die” – and with that mantra at the heart of what they do, we’re sure they’ll continue to make waves.

        Although the debut of $DEGOD has been a mixed bag, we’re sure the DeGods team has deeper utility in mind for the token – though when that will be revealed is anyone’s guess.

        They’ve been unafraid to push boundaries, challenge conventions or follow the path well-trodden – and it’s that level of confidence that’s won them so many supporters so far.

        Dust Labs, a blockchain technology side-project to DeGods, has began to develop software solutions for other NFT projects – off the back of their chain-hopping expertise – and this could lead to further innovations for DeGods in future.

        The DeDAO will play a major part in what DeGods will become. The passion from its members is felt everywhere you turn – from X to Discord and more – ensuring that the interests of the DeGods team and their holders are always aligned.

        With DeGods, expect the unexpected.



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        Celebrating Metaphor: ReFantazio’s Greatness, Criticizing Its Faults, And More Of The Week’s Top Takes

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        Celebrating Metaphor: ReFantazio’s Greatness, Criticizing Its Faults, And More Of The Week’s Top Takes


        Image: Blue Rider Interactive

        One of the most well-known principles of theatrical storytelling is widely referred to as “Chekhov’s gun.” The principle suggests that if some element is introduced to a story, even in a casual, offhand way, by the end, it had better prove significant. Or, as it’s often summed up, if a gun shows up at some point in your story, by the end, it had better go off. So, when a gun shows up early in my playthrough of narrative game Apartment Story, you can imagine where my mind immediately went. – Willa Rowe Read More



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