#Drop-down Training Machine Market

[orangeblossomsintheair]

DON’T BE A STRANGER | CS55

summary : faceless driver + secretly royalty carlos sainz w leclerc!reader

wc : 2k

an : ring ding ding ding- its me again >:)) what an amazing week this has been on the website, thxx everyone. i mostly just wrote this so the idea could stop bludgeoning me

The faceless driver of Ferrari steps onto the paddock like a rumor, all sharp lines and shadows, the prickle of something not quite real. They call him Sainz, only Sainz, as if a single name could hold the weight of everything unknown.

His helmet never comes off.

Never.

Not on the podium, not in interviews, not in moments of victory or failure.

A flawless red shell.

And the rumors?

They twist through the paddock like smoke from an invisible fire, impossible to pin down but inescapable all the same. Louder than the engines sometimes, they cling to the corners of conversations, the edges of glances, until the air is thick with questions no one can answer.

After all, the motorsports world is small, excruciatingly tight-knit, and talent doesn’t spring from nowhere. It has roots. And roots, as everyone in the paddock knows, have a way of surfacing when you dig deep enough.

Surely, he belongs to someone.

People don’t just rise to the pinnacle of Formula 1 without a trail to follow, without whispers of their origin. There are always breadcrumbs: the karting academy, the private sponsors, the family connections that weave a web so tight it’s impossible to escape.

And yet, with Sainz, the web feels intentionally erased.

Which is why the theories have grown, wild and unruly, feeding on the silence Ferrari so fiercely maintains.

Some say he’s royalty.

“Think about it,” one engineer murmured late one evening over drinks at the hospitality tent. “It makes sense. Why else would Ferrari go to such lengths to protect him? Royals love their secrets.”

“Royals?” The mechanic across from him snorted into his beer. “You’ve been reading too many tabloids. Royals don’t hide. They thrive on attention.”

“Not if they’ve got something to lose.”

“Like what? A throne?”

The first engineer leaned back, voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Why not? Formula 1’s full of money, right? What’s the difference between a billionaire’s kid and a prince? Nothing. Except one of them has a crown.”

The argument has traction, though. The idea that Sainz is an heir to a European throne, Spanish, most likely, has fueled countless debates, forums, and conspiracy threads.

“Think about it,” fans say online, dissecting every detail like forensic scientists. “A prince could afford the best. He’d have access to elite training, connections, and anonymity if he wanted it. He’d be untouchable.”

And yet, skeptics roll their eyes at the notion. “If he were a prince,” they argue, “you think Ferrari wouldn’t plaster that all over their marketing? A royal in the red? They’d be printing posters and selling merch faster than the car hits 200 miles an hour.”

It’s a fair point. Ferrari doesn’t just protect Sainz, they shield him, encase him in layers of secrecy that feel deliberate, almost sacred.

Why? That’s the question that eats at everyone.

They defend him like he’s the crown jewel of Maranello, and when it comes to Ferrari, you don’t defend just anyone like that. The Scuderia doesn’t go to bat for drivers like they go to bat for Sainz.

Why would Ferrari, a team known for its relentless media machine, its flair for drama, its love of spectacle, choose to keep someone like Sainz hidden?

Why fight tooth and nail to keep his helmet on, even when the FIA itself came knocking?

The fight with the FIA was the turning point.

It started with whispers, rumblings that the governing body was “concerned” about Sainz’s anonymity. Drivers, after all, are public figures. Fans deserve transparency, or so the FIA claimed. There were rumors of mandatory press appearances without helmets, of new regulations aimed squarely at pulling Sainz into the light.

Ferrari’s response was swift, brutal, and uncompromising.

“The helmet stays on,” Luca, Ferrari’s head of PR, told the press during a heated exchange after qualifying in Monaco. His tone brooked no argument. “His performance speaks for itself. His identity is irrelevant.”

When pressed further, Luca leaned into the microphone, his voice like steel. “We protect our drivers. Always. If you have a problem with that, take it up with the board in Maranello.”

Behind closed doors, it was said that Ferrari’s lawyers were already drafting lawsuits before the FIA even made their first official statement. Confidential documents circulated among team principals hinted at Ferrari’s threat to pull out of the championship entirely if Sainz’s privacy was breached.

“They’d never leave,” Toto Wolff scoffed during a press conference. “Ferrari is Formula 1.”

But the threat worked.

The FIA backed down, releasing a carefully worded statement about “respecting driver boundaries” and “valuing individual choices.” And just like that, Sainz’s helmet remained firmly in place, untouchable once more.

It was the kind of move that convinced everyone that Sainz wasn’t just another driver. Ferrari doesn’t go to war for nobodies. They don’t risk their reputation, their legacy, for just anyone.

“He must be someone important,” a junior driver muttered once, staring at Sainz’s car as it glided into the garage. “You don’t get that kind of protection unless you’re…”

“Unless you’re what?”

The driver hesitated, then shook his head. “Never mind.”

But here’s the thing: it’s never enough.

The rumors spread, and with them, the obsession. The more they try to pin him down, the more he slips through their fingers. It’s the perfect magic trick. Sainz isn’t just a driver.

He’s a myth, an idea, a story unfolding with every lap.

He is both the question and the answer.

—-

The paddock is a sensory overload: cameras flashing, fans yelling, mechanics rushing around like their lives depend on it. The heat and humidity press down on you like a second skin.

You weave through the chaos, dodging a camera crew and a gaggle of reporters, the noise too loud, the air too thick.

All you want is a quiet place to breathe.

You pull your phone out and fire off a quick text to Charles. Where are you?

The reply comes almost instantly. Driver’s room. Come here.

Relief washes over you.

Finally, somewhere away from all this madness.

You know the layout of the Ferrari paddock well enough to navigate without issue, your access pass swinging from your neck giving you clearance to move unbothered.

You round a corner and spot a door, slightly ajar, with a sign you swear reads “Leclerc.” Close enough. Without thinking, you push it open and step inside.

It’s quieter in here, the noise from outside muffled by thick walls. You let out a breath, already feeling the tension in your shoulders begin to ease. But as you glance around, something feels… off.

This isn’t Charles’s room.

The walls are too clean, the floor too pristine. There’s no sign of your brother’s clutter: no jacket thrown over a chair, no half-finished water bottle on the counter. Instead, everything is painfully organized, the space clinical in its perfection. And the overwhelming Ferrari red, too much of it, everywhere, makes your stomach twist.

Before you can retreat, you hear footsteps. Sharp. Purposeful. Coming right toward you.

Your pulse spikes. You freeze, too startled to even turn around. When the figure emerges, it’s not Charles, or a mechanic, or anyone you recognize.

It’s a man. Tall, broad-shouldered, and moving with a kind of quiet intensity that instantly sets you on edge. He’s already pulling a balaclava over his head, but not quickly enough, you catch a glimpse of his sharp jawline, his piercing dark eyes. He stops when he sees you, his body going rigid like a predator caught off guard.

His voice slices through the silence, sharp and low. “Who the fuck are you?”

You flinch, your throat dry as you scramble to explain. “I- uh- this is-”

“What the fuck are you doing here?” he snaps, cutting you off. His accent is Spanish, his tone icy. “How did you even get in?”

Your brain short-circuits. The balaclava, his tense posture, the way he’s blocking the door—it all screams danger.

Your fingers move before your brain catches up, fumbling for your phone.

“I- uh- just stay right there!” you stammer, raising the phone like it’s a shield. “I’m recording this! You’re not gonna- uh- get away with- whatever you’re doing!”

The man’s eyes narrow. For a moment, he just stares at you, like he can’t believe what he’s seeing. Then, with terrifying speed, he lunges forward and snatches the phone out of your hand.

“Are you serious?” he growls, holding your phone up like it’s a toy. His voice drips with disdain. “You barge into my space, and now you’re trying to record me? Do you even know who I am?”

“No! Do you know who I am?” you snap back, panic making your voice louder than you intended. “You’re the creep in my brother’s driver room! I should be suing you!”

He pauses, his head tilting slightly, confusion flashing across his face. “Your brother?”

“Yes, my brother!” you shout, emboldened by your growing irritation. “Charles Leclerc? Ring a bell?”

His eyes flicker with something you can’t quite place- amusement? Annoyance?

“Leclerc,” he repeats, almost like he’s tasting the name.

“Yes! And he’s going to be so pissed when he finds out- ”

“This isn’t his room.”

His words are slow, deliberate, and laced with sarcasm. They hit you like a bucket of cold water.

You blink, your bravado evaporating. “What?”

He gestures lazily toward the door. “The name on the sign. Read it.”

Your stomach churns as you turn to look. There, in bold letters, is a name that definitely isn’t “Leclerc.”

Sainz.

“Oh my god,” you whisper, the realization crashing down on you.

“Anything else you want to accuse me of?”

You stammer out a garbled apology, your face burning with embarrassment. “I- uh- thought- I mean- oh god, I’m so sorry- ”

“You thought,” Sainz interrupts, his voice flat, “so now I’m the creep in your brother’s room? Really?”

Your tongue feels like lead. Every molecule of bravery evaporates under the weight of his piercing stare. “I didn’t- I mean, I-”

He sighs, glancing at the phone in his hand. “Did you take any photos?”

“What?” you squeak.

“Photos.” His tone sharpens, patience wearing thin. “Did you take any?”

“No!” you exclaim, horrified by the implication. “Why would I-”

“Because if you did,” he cuts you off, leaning in slightly, “I’ll sue you.”

You take an involuntary step back. “Sue me? For what?”

“For trespassing,” he replies coolly. “For invading my privacy. For whatever the hell I decide to call it. Take your pick.”

“I didn’t even know this was your room!” you blurt out, frustration bubbling over. “I wasn’t trying to invade anything! And you’re the one wearing a balaclava like some kind of-”

“Like some kind of what?” he challenges, his eyes narrowing.

“Like some kind of criminal!” you fire back, your voice rising in pitch.

For a moment, the tension hangs thick in the air. His lips twitch, almost like he’s trying not to laugh, but his gaze stays icy.

“I wear this because I’m a driver,” he says slowly, like he’s explaining it to a child. “Not because I’m robbing a bank.”

You press your lips together, mortified and furious at the same time. “Look,” you say, holding out your hand for your phone, “this was a mistake. I didn’t mean to walk in here, and I didn’t take any photos. Can I just have my phone back so I can leave?”

He studies you for a moment, his expression unreadable, before finally handing it over. “If I find out you lied,” he warns, “I will sue.”

“Noted,” you mutter, clutching your phone like it’s your lifeline.

You spin on your heel, desperate to escape this nightmare, but his voice stops you just as you reach the door.

“And maybe next time,” he calls after you, “learn how to read a sign.”

You don’t turn back. You can’t. Your face is burning, your heart is racing, and the humiliation is seared into your memory forever.

[artists-ally]

{Dirty Little Curse} Azriel x Reader x Xaden

Here is a continuation of She Me Where It Hurts!!! No this isn't a series, but rather a collection of stand alone fics about the same characters if that makes sense. You don't need to read the other parts to enjoy. There's no plot. Just smut hehehehe. Happy Wednesday!!

Word Count: 5,498

Warnings: ACOTAR x Fourth Wing, Smut (dom!Az and Xaden, sub!reader), use of the nickname "pet", DP, spanking, praise kink, breath play, shadow play, unprotected sex, degrading, choking, exhibitionism, just a touch of fluff.

Tagging: @librafairy @needylilgal022 @harrystylesfan2686 @justdreamstars @cyrygher @agent-anna @thelov3lybookworm @blessthepizzaman @highladyofterrasen7

Summary: Xaden has been A little more stressed than normal and due to complications at Basgiath, he isn't able to make it to Velaris for his normal training schedule. Az takes it upon himself to bring him an early Solstice gift.

~~~~~

I made my way down the cobblestone street, adjusting my bag on my shoulder as I made my way back home. The market had been full of people preparing for Solstice; buying presents and decorations for their homes or shops. 

With two bags in my hand, I had plans to spruce up my front door. The holly and various berries would make for a great-

“AHHHHH!” The ground shrunk beneath me, disappearing as I’m lifted into the air. “Oh my fucking- what the fuck.”

A deep laugh rumbled through me, and I looked up and behind my shoulder. “Good morning.”

“Azriel,” I shrieked. “What the- what the fuck are you doing?”

“We’re going on a trip.” He adjusted his grip under my arms and hauled me up. I wrapped my legs around his torso and locked my arms around his neck. “I won’t drop you.”

“What do you mean we’re going on a trip?” I looked out at the Illyrian mountains, watching them fade away. 

“We’re going to Basgiath. To visit Xaden.”

My chest tightened, my blood running rampant. “We are?”

“He couldn’t make it down for his lesson. Happy Solstice,” Azriel smiled, kissing my cheek. 

I beamed, “It is a wonderful Solstice gift. Thank you. How far is it from here?”

“Oh, we’re not going to fly,” Az said, slowing down his pace and coming to a stop. He set me down and flared out his wings before tucking them in tightly to his body. “It’s almost a month's travel.”

“The world is that big?” I gasped, taking his open hand. 

“Yes. Now hold tight, it’s a long winnow.”

I did as told, choosing to let him hold my waist instead of my hand. In the several months that have passed since I first met the shadowsinger and the shadow-wielder, Azriel has stopped by my house numerous times. To give me small gifts, or to take me out for a nice dinner. Or to warm my bed . He was a generous male to say the least. 

Xaden wrote often after he left for Basgiath. Not being shy with all the things he wanted to do to me when he came back to Velaris. Thanks to Az, sending and receiving them made communicating so much easier. 

It felt far longer than a normal winnow, at least forty-five seconds of pitch black whirling around us until we came to a stop. I blinked away the stars and we were in some giant training center. I counted four-five-six-seven sparring mats and a line of machines in the back. 

“Where is he?” I asked, not seeing him amongst the few faces. He’s easy to pick out from a crowd. And he wasn’t here. There were several heads of similar hair; one female on a mat with bright pink hair cropped close to her jaw.

“He’ll be here in a few minutes.”

“I can’t wait to see him.” I played with my hands anxiously.

“I didn’t tell him I was bringing you,” Azriel smiled, heading off towards one of the empty mats in the back corner. I had to skip a few steps to keep up. 

“What? Why?”

“Because you were going to be a surprise for him. We do talk about you, and he is far worse at keeping his desires to himself than I am,” he smirked. “It’s my Solstice gift to him. Plus, you’ll help throw him off his game when we’re fighting.”

“You train him as well? Not just with the shadows?” “If he wants to be as strong at wielding as I am, he has to be as physically strong as I am to do so. It can take an incredible toll on the body. And who has more experience, some fifty year old male who has never dealt with a shadow-wielder before, or a five hundred year old male who has had them all his life?”

“Point taken.”

Azriel smiled and kissed the top of my head. “He’s almost here, just tuck yourself back here until I tell you to come out and surprise him.”

“Okay,” I chuckled, sliding behind one of the pillars holding up the ceiling. It was carved from a massive piece of black stone. So shiny I could see my reflection in it. 

A few minutes went by and I could hear the sound of footsteps approaching. The sound of Xaden’s voice greeting Az made my heart jump. He sounded a little gruff, like his smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. It wasn’t long before I could hear punches and their feet sweeping across the mats’ surface. 

“Okay, stop.” Azriel shouted through a painting breath. “What is with you today? You’re sloppy. Had I been a real enemy I would’ve already detached your head from your neck.”

“Doesn’t matter,” Xaden said. “Keep going, I’m not going to be the only one bleeding here.”

“Xaden.”

“I said it’s fine.”

“Well, if you won’t tell me-” I felt a cool brush of shadows circle around my hand. “-then maybe you’ll talk to her.”

I stepped out of the shadow and into the light, greeted by the beautiful sight of Xaden’s back. Azriel looked at me, a smile playing on his lips. Az gripped his shoulders and spun him around. Those onyx, gold flecked eyes found mine and I could physically see his shoulders relax. 

“Yn…”

“Surprise!” In two seconds I was up in the air, spinning around in his arms. I giggled, clutching the back of his sweaty head, letting the hair curl around my fingers. “I missed you too.”

“What are you doing here?” He set me on my feet, cupping my face. “I- how are you here?”

“Az winnowed me in. And I had no idea I was coming today, he kind of kidnapped me on my way to my house. Happy Solstice, Xaden.”

He looked behind him as Az stood with his hands on his hips, grinning at both of us. 

“Prick,” Xaden smiled, then kissed me so hard I thought I’d fall over. But the grip he had on my waist wouldn’t ever let me dream of falling. “Okay, sparring done. Let’s get you upstairs and-”

“Not so fast,” Az interrupted, stepping next to me. “You still have training to do.”

“But it’s Solstice, can’t he just skip it for today?”

“Yeah Az,” Xaden mocked. “It’s Solstice, can’t I skip it for today?”

Az glared at both of us. “No. Get back on the mat.”

Xaden groaned. He slid his massive hand across the front of my throat. “How am I supposed to focus now?”

“You weren’t focused before,” Az retorted, picking up a sword. “Now let's go, these drills aren’t going to run themselves.”

Xaden groaned in annoyance. “Will you stay and watch? I need you in my corner to throw him off his game. And to motivate me, of course.” I couldn’t do anything to keep my smile away. “Sure.” I pressed up on my toes and left him with a parting kiss on his damp forehead. “Go kick his ass. Just for me, and I’ll make sure you get first dibs when we get upstairs.”

His eyes darkened. Xaden was not shy when it came to practically shoving his tongue down my throat before he leapt up on the mat. “Let’s get this done, shadowsinger.” 

I watched the two males battel, swinging swords around and clashing them together. Azriel was impeccable with his footwork, but so was Xaden. The two of them looked like a forbidden, hidden secret weapon of mass destruction. They ebbed and flowed. When one moved, the other followed. It was mesmerizing to watch.

And, not to mention, seeing them with both their shirts off, all slick with sweat… It made it impossible to pay attention to anything around me. I was hardly able to force myself to breathe. 

“If you keep staring, pretty girl, you might burn a hole through me,” Xaden said slyly, taking a drink of water. I wasn’t shy about the way I raked my eyes down his torso, and he wasn’t shy about flexing and showing off. 

Az jabbed him in the ribs with the butt end of his sword. “Alright, we’re done for the day.”

“Finally, now we can actually have some fun,” Xaden grinned, pressing me up against the wall. The kiss was full of need, and I could feel just how much he needed me as he pressed my hips into the cold stone. 

Heat radiated off of him. His scent was thick with his sweat and made me want to drop to my knees and run my tongue all over his carved stomach. Had it not been for his hold on me I might’ve just done it. Dropped to my knees, undone the belt holding up his pants, and taken him down my throat…

“Fuck Yn, you don’t know how long I’ve waited to taste you again,” Xaden purred, kissing down my neck. “To hear all those pretty noises.”

“Please,” I breathed. I couldn’t think, not with his scent strangling my brain

Xaden gripped my jaw, forcing me to look at him. “Please what?”

“I need you,” I pleaded. “I need you so bad Xaden. I need you, Azriel.”

I could see that predatory hunger glaze his eyes. From one moment to the next I was in a room, no bigger than my closet back in Velaris. There was a bed, a clothing chest, and that was it save for the line of weapons on the wall.

Not much. And the bed was… not even big enough for Xaden let alone all of us.

“This isn’t going to work,” Azriel grumbled, knocking his wings into everything around him. He let out a string of curses and I could see the shadows curling around his shoulder begin to accumulate.

“Agreed,” I sighed, running my hands over Xadens shoulders. “Anywhere else we could go?”

“Unless you guys want to do this on one of the training mats, then no.” Azriel and I exchanged a look. “I was joking.”

“Don’t care,” Azriel quickly took me out of Xadens grip. “There’s no way in hell this is going to work here. I’d rather sleep naked in Illyria than try to do what I want to do with my pet here.”

My knees went weak. “But what about all the people?”

“Leave that to me.”

Once again, we were back in the training room, Xaden and Az blocking my view. 

“Everyone out,” Azriel’s voice carried over the entire center. People quickly darted around, grabbing bottles of water and shirts left and right. In less than a minute the entire arena was empty. Except for us. 

“I cannot believe you just kicked everyone out,” Xaden scoffed. 

“I won’t hear you complaining when Yn has her mouth on you,” Azriel rolled his eyes. His hand went to my shoulder and he pushed me to my knees. “Get to work pet, I’m getting impatient.”

“Yes sir,” I grinned up at Xaden, undoing the belt at his hips. 

“Fuck I missed your tongue,” Xaden gathered my hair at the back of my head. The soft skin of his tip did wonders for the built up anticipation I’ve had since Az told me where we were going. 

I hummed as he settled in the back of my throat. I worked up and down, holding still when he forced me to. Ten seconds would go by without a breath. It filled me with the most delicious fear. Tears already pricked my eyes. 

“Why are you holding back?” Az asked, pushing on the back of my head until I gagged so hard those tears fell down my cheeks. “That's it, pet. Fucking take it.”

“Easy Az, she still needs to breathe,” Xaden chuckled, wiping away my tears. “But she does look so pretty stuffed full of my cock.”

“Don’t get too used to it,” Az said, pulling me off of him. He grasped my jaw and forced his own cock down. “She’s here to be shared.”

“I wasn’t finished with her yet, shadowsinger,” Xaden growled, shoving Az aside to claim me again. 

“Take what is mine again and I’ll cut out your tongue,” Azriel snarled, pulling Xaden to the wall in a second. 

“Woah woah woah,” I hurried over and stood between the two of them. “As hot as it is to have you two fighting over me, let’s not get violent, okay? There is plenty of me to go around, see?” I took both of their cocks into my hands, stroking them together. 

Xaden shuddered, tossing his head back. Az just grinned down at me. “Does our pet think she’s in charge?”

“No,” I shook my head. “I just want you two to get over yourselves and fuck me senseless.”

“Look at her begging for us, Az,” Xaden took a step towards me, absolutely towering over me. “It’s almost like she has a choice. How pathetic.”

“We’re gonna make you regret saying that.” Az had me on my chest, knees digging into the mat in a split second. He literally ripped off my pants before I could say differently. A hard, unforgiving hand came down on my ass and I screamed. He did it again. 

“The whole fucking Quadrant is gonna hear her if we don’t make her be quiet,” Xaden warned. He kneeled in front of me and lifted my chin. “Unless you want that, pretty thing. Would you like for all of Basgiath to know you’re being fucked dumb by us, hmm? I bet you would, you fucking slut.”

I whimpered, trying to lean away from Azriel so I could take Xaden down my throat. 

“Oh Az, you’ve got to see this. Come look at her,” Xaden mocked, teasing me by inching his hips forward to watch me strain, only to yank it away at the last second. “Did you see that? She’s literally chasing my cock. You want it that bad, huh? Gosh, Yn, you are like a pet.”

“Please,” I begged, nearly frustrated to tears. “Please let me taste you.”

“What do you say, Az. Should I give her what she wants?”

“Just for a minute. I wanna have her even more limp than she was the last time,” Az said. I could feel his smile against my back where he placed a kiss. 

“Be a good girl, Yn.” Xaden finally shifted his hips far enough for me to suck. He wouldn’t move any closer and I could only barely lick his tip. I groaned, the impatient noise carrying farther than I wanted to. I tried to reach as hard as I could but Azriel kept yanking me back every time I got closer. 

I got close again, only to be ripped away. I cried out, dropping my head as I pounded on the floor. “Please,” I begged. “Please let me have him Az, please please.”

“She is literally throwing a tantrum because I won’t let her have your dick, Riorson. This… this is what power is,” Az said, pure sin dripping from his tongue. “You’re fucking defenseless, Yn. We own you. We own your body, we own your pleasure.” A brutal smack to my ass. “Do you understand? You don’t get anything until we say so.”

“Yes,” I gasped, a little light headed at the force of his hand. My voice was trembling. “Yes, you own me. Both of you own me.”

“Good,” Az grit through his teeth, fisting his hand in my hair. His hips met my ass and he walked me forward into Xaden’s lap. With his other hand, He gripped my cheeks until my lips parted. All I could do was take the cock in front of me. “Now make him cum.”

Az moved my head up and down for me, controlling my movements. By the power of magic, I was stripped of the rest of my clothing and those ruthless shadows were back, circling every inch of my skin. 

There was nothing I could do but let Azriel force me onto Xaden. I just kept moaning, which drew the most wonderful noises from the shadow-wielder. 

“You’re really being ruthless tonight, huh?” Xaden said, bucking his hips so my nose hit his pelvic bone every thrust. 

“She was being a brat,” Az explained, releasing another lethal blow on my already sore ass. “She needs to be taught that she can’t get away with any of that.”

“I think she’s learned her lesson,” Xaden said, caressing my damp cheek. “She looks so pretty like this. Ass up, lips swollen… fuck I’m gonna cum.”

Az moved my head even faster, forcing me down down down until I couldn’t breathe. In a minute or two, Xaden was so far down I couldn’t taste him at all. The only sign he was cumming was the strain in his neck and the heaving of his chest.

I choked, gagging for a breath but Az held firm until I began to panic a little.

“I’ll tell you when she’s learned her lesson.”

I was, yet again, yanked away from Xaden. So quickly I was a little dizzy when I ended up in the same position in front of Az. He didn't say anything. Just shoved his cock down my throat. 

“Get behind her and keep her moving, Riorson,” Az commanded, letting go of my hair so Xaden’s hand could take its place. Xaden’s cum trickled down my lips and around Az, I thought he didn’t notice but- “You didn’t even swallow, pet? Bad girl.”

“I- I tried,” I pleaded as I was lifted off. “It was so much, I didn’t have time to-”

“I don’t want to hear excuses." His eyes were like emeralds, but his voice like a knife. “Apologize to Xaden for wasting it.”

“I’m sorry, Xaden,” I sighed, trying to catch my breath. 

Azriel’s hand clamped on my throat so hard I screamed. He tightened and tightened and tightened. “You can do better than that. Tell him what you’re going to do to make it up to him.”

“I’ll- fuck I’ll do anything you want, Xaden. Anything. Anything.”

“You’re really making her beg, Az,” Xaden grinned, taking Az’s hand off my throat so I could breathe. “It’s okay, pretty girl. I know you didn’t mean to waste any of it. It was just too much to swallow down. I’ll just replace it all in your pussy. I know you’ll be able to keep it all in. You won’t have a choice.”

“Please.”

“You’ll get it, after I’m done with you.”

Az positioned me over his cock again, guiding it into my mouth. Without Xadens help, I took it all down and then some. He let me move at my own pace for a little, letting me do as I please. I didn’t falter once, I was too afraid that I’d get another punishment. I’d be lucky if he let me cum.

Xaden’s finger ran from the top of my ass all the way to my clit. He sunk in two fingers and I could hear my wetness hit the floor. “So messy.”

“Fuck her if you want. What’s she gonna do?” Az grinned, now putting his hands on my head. “Ready to take it, pet?”

I nodded, mumbling around him as I prepared. I don’t think I’ll be able to talk tomorrow, that’s for sure. 

Every single square inch of my body was on fire. Between the lack of air, Xaden teasing my clit, and their shadows? I’d be lucky to ever walk again. My fingers and toes were numb with a mix of pleasure and raw, primal fear. Knowing that they, at any point they wanted, could do whatever they wanted to me was… exhilarating.

“You’re doing such a good job, Yn. Making Az feel so good. Keep it up and I’ll make you cum. Would you like that?”

I helplessly nodded. 

“Make her beg for it,” Azriel interjected, forcing me so far down on his dick that I couldn’t breathe. I tried to relax, but I couldn’t breathe. My chest started burning and I was gagging uncontrollably. I tried to pull away, but the hold was too strong on my head. I thrashed. I tried to reach for Xaden, for leverage to get away but I couldn’t move. “Ah ah ah, you’re okay. Stop moving and I’ll let you go. The more you squirm, the more I want to keep you here.”

The words barely registered, but I stopped, tears streaming down my face. A burst of air swept into my lungs and I felt the relief wash over me. Where it came from, I’ll never know, but I was grateful. The taste of Azriel’s cum shot across my tongue and down. Gods above was there a lot…

When he let me up, I scrambled away, backing up into Xaden. His strong arms circled around me as I caught my breath. 

“Too much?” Xaden whispered, pressing kisses to my head. 

I just panted, eyes closed, the ringing in my ears too loud to hear anything. I was so lightheaded. The world was spinning but… I liked it. It felt good to be that out of control of my own body. Nothing could compare to the feeling of my life in someone else’s hands. 

“Yn,” Xaden said a little firmer when I didn’t respond. I just went limp in his grasp. “Are you okay?”

“Y… Yes,” I breathed, my voice nothing but fragments of syllables. “I’m fine.”

“Let's take a break,” Azriel kneeled in front of me, playing with my lips. “Let's get you some water and then we can-”

“No,” I begged, staggering to my knees and into Az, eyes wide. “Please, I need it. I need you so bad.”

“I know you do,” Az said, kissing me gently, “but you also don’t know how terrified you looked. Two minutes, then we’ll get you what you really want.”

I couldn’t really argue against the spymaster. A cup was placed on my lips but I refused to drink. I wanted something first. 

“Yn, please. Just drink a sip. Two sips and then you can have us,” Az baited me, but still refused, turning my nose the opposite way. He sighed. “Don’t make me force you. Please, Yn.”

“Xaden,” I looked over my shoulder. “Can I ride you?”

His eyes went a little wide, but that sly, cocky grin settled on his lips. “Of course you can.”

“After you drink,” Az snapped. “Just two sips is all I’m-”

I got to my knees and straddled Xaden, sinking onto his hard cock. He hissed at the pressure, at the force of me sinking all the way down. I wiggled my hips, taking him deeper until he couldn’t go any more. “I’ll take the water now.”

Azriel just stared at me, white knuckling the cup. He had this feral look in his eyes. That was the only possible way to describe it. He blinked and it was gone, then the cup was at my lips. His hand gently tilted up and I drank it all down, wiping my upper lip with the back of my hand before turning all my attention back to Xaden.

“I got too impatient,” I grinned, crushing my mouth to his. He leaned back, taking me with him as he laid flat on the mat. 

“Ready to do what we talked about?” Xaden said, looking over my head. The light was blocked by Azriel’s silhouette, the shape of his wings casting a shadow over us. 

“Yes.”

I lifted a brow, “What did you two talk about without me?”

“You’ll find out,” Xaden said, bringing my mouth back to his. He caught my tongue between his teeth and pulled, moans spewing out of my mouth. He fucked up into me, feet planted on the floor as he held me in place. 

The sound of our bodies together filled the room and I prayed to the Mother that no one would come in. I don’t think we can explain this one away. 

Hands raked down my spine, caressing every dip and curve of my body. Azriel kissed up my neck. I shivered uncontrollably. 

“Can I cum? Please? I took my punishment so well, please let me cum.” I’m not sure I’m even speaking a language anymore. This might all be in my head. 

“I think we can give you that,” Xaden smiled, fingering my clit. The touch was so light, but it sent me over the edge immediately. I shook and trembled and gasped. Stars filled my eyes as he fucked me through it, not slowing down. A firm hand pushed me flat onto his chest and I could feel Az close in.

I felt an enormous amount of pressure against my pussy. 

“What are you doing?”

“What we discussed a few weeks ago,” Azriel said, keeping me pinned down. “Now, you have to relax or else this is going to hurt. Do you trust me?”

I nodded, “yes, I trust you. I trust both of you.”

“We’re gonna take such good care of you,” Xaden kissed up my chest, teeth grazing my nipple. His hands rubbed up and down my sides, across my thighs. I jolted with another press against my cunt. “Easy, Yn. Just let us take control. You’re being such a good girl. I know it’s a lot, but you can take it. It’s gonna feel so good.”

The tip of Azriel’s cock slipped in right next to Xaden. I couldn’t breathe. At the same time my mind went completely blank. There wasn’t even pain, just pure bliss. I could move my eyes, but nothing else. My arms were pinned down, my legs locked around Xaden’s middle. 

The shadows around me were endless. Holy shit…

“That’s it,” Azriel cooed. “Just let us take you. Just keep drifting.”

I could feel Az sink in, but it was only pressure and pure pleasure. My mind was flooded with images of us, all tangled together, of them to the hilt inside me. I twitched, but I didn’t shudder like I should’ve. 

“We’ve got you, pretty thing,” Xaden’s thumb brushed my cheek. “Just take us. You’ll be alright.”

“Fuck she’s so tight. Cauldron Yn you feel… you’re so incredible.”

I was lifted up, then I was brought back down. Over and over and over. I was reduced to a whining, begging mess of just noise. I couldn’t think words if I tried. I could only feel. Could only feel both of them inside me at the same time. 

My skin was on fire, yet it was cool. The shadows offered a nice sense of reality. It kept me grounded. 

My head lulled back as I was lifted up, rolling forward as I came back down. 

“Malek spare me,” Xaden cursed, throwing his head onto the mat. “Az- Az I can’t- fuck I can’t hold on any longer.”

Both of them moaned at the same time, and I felt Azriel’s teeth clamp onto my shoulder. Warmth bloomed into me and I think I’m cumming, I can’t tell. Maybe it’s Az or Xaden. My mind isn’t my own, every part of me belongs to them now. Every inch of my body is theirs to use.

“You’re taking us so well, Yn. Such a fucking good girl, taking both of our cocks in your pussy like this. I bet you came with Xaden didn’t you? Added to the mess, huh? All you can do is whimper. It’s so adorable, watching you submit to us. You’re nothing but a good fuck toy, a mere pet for us to play with whenever we want.”

“Come on, Yn,” Xaden gripped my face. I could see him, but it was like I was looking through some filter. “You can take more, can’t you? Az still needs to cum. Are you gonna be a good little girl and make him cum?” He nodded my head up and down for me. “Yes you are. You’re gonna take all of it. There's already so much, you're so messy, wanna taste?” 

Not that I could nod, but if I could, I would’ve. Two fingers pressed into my lips and the sweet, yet tangy taste filled my senses. It was like I only knew how to suck on Xadens digits. Like I wasn’t good for anything else but eating the cum he dumped into me. 

“Goooood girl, Yn,” Xaden praised, gagging me slightly. 

I could hear the noises coming from behind me. Azriel was a mess of curses and panting breaths. I could feel the wind from his wings. He was fucking into me so hard. 

Blinding pleasure ripped through me, along with this… this roar from Azriel. I was flattened on top of Xaden, being forced farther and farther onto him. The mighty beats of Az’s wings sounded through the room, he must’ve been using them to fuck into me harder and harder. 

I don’t know when it stopped, when I finally came back to reality. But I opened my eyes and could feel my fingers, could feel the cold mat under us. 

“There she is,” Azriel’s strained voice whispered. “Shhh, you’re alright, we’ve got you.”

I mumbled something. Even I don’t know what it was supposed to be. 

“Easy, Az. Just lay her down,” Xaden instructed and I could feel my legs unfold. I groaned, the stiffness making my joints crack. “We’ve got you, just let us move you.”

Hands were all over me, and I gave up trying to figure out whos belong to who. Every second that passed I gained more feeling back, the tingling subsiding, giving away to pain and this settled ache in my bones. 

“Still with us?” Xaden kissed my cheek, then the tip of my nose.

“Mhmm,” I nodded, keeping my eyes closed. “It’s just bright in here.”

“Let's change that,” Xaden said, and then the room felt ten degrees cooler. “Better?”

I looked around and there was a wall of shadow around our mat. It blocked out most of the light. “Much.”

“You did so well, Yn,” Az said, massive hands squeezing my thighs to get blood back to them. “So so so fucking good.”

“The best,” Xaden agreed. 

I smiled, lifting up my head, I tried to turn over but my arms were trembling so badly I couldn’t. I giggled, “What did you guys do to me?”

“So many wonderful things,” Xaden grinned, kissing my swollen lips. “You were so perfect. You did so amazing. So proud of you.”

I was mush as I laid back down, warm and fuzzy with their sweet words. 

“What do you need?” Azriel asked, playing gently with my hair. 

I took a moment to listen to my body. I noted the utter calm that was inside, and the sheer pain between my legs. There was no moisture in my mouth and I knew it must’ve been intense. I must’ve made a face because there was instantly another cup of water at my lips. 

“Sit up just a little for me, sweetheart,” Az put one of his, again, massive, thighs under my head so I could sit up without having to use any muscle. I could get used to being pampered like this. “Drink slowly.”

It was so refreshing, so cold I could feel it go all the way down. My mind slowly became my own again and I could see clearer. There was no longer this fuzz to my vision. “Thank you.”

“Of course.” A kiss to my forehead. “Anything else?” I shivered. He chuckled, “Clothes it is.”

“Maybe a bed? Not this hard mat? No offense Xaden but you all should really get more comfortable sparring rings.”

“Yeah, tell me about it,” Xaden grumbled, throwing me a lazy smile. “Let's get you dressed.”

One limb at a time they stuffed me into clothes. They were not the ones I had been wearing, but I wasn’t about to object to them. They smelled like Xaden, and when I looked down, I saw the Fourth Wing patch embroidered on the breast. My heart swooned. 

“Are you in any pain?” Az asked. His concern was so sweet. 

“I’m okay, I promise. You don’t need to worry,” I rubbed his cheek. 

“If you could see what you look like right now you might be singing a different tune,” Xaden scanned my face, tucking hair behind my ear. “You look… thoroughly fucked, to say the least.”

“Good,” I smiled, nuzzling into Az. “Can we all go back to Velaris and sleep now?”

“Sounds like a lovely plan.”

I let them haul me up and I barely clung to Az as he stood up. He positioned me with my legs around his hips, his arms around my torso to keep me strapped to him. The world whizzed by in an instant and I knew we’d be home soon.

Somewhere along the way I fell asleep, knowing that they would take care of me. Knowing that I couldn't be anywhere safer than in their arms.

[grim333z]

Saviour Carl~

carl grimes x gn!reader

Summary: Carl, if he'd have been taken in to be trained up to be a saviour 

warnings : kidnapping, burn mentions, scars, someone being burned, mentions of people being shot, gun mentions. (It's twd if you've watched twd you'll be fine with this)

"what the fuck fuckity fucking fuck" Negan yells out, spotting you gunning down half the men in his court-yard, heavy machine gun in you arms as you squint down the scope, pausing your massacre to hear what the man has to say, once he realises where you've come from, Alexandria, a smile falls onto his face as he runs his gloved hand over his greying overgrown beard, he huffs a laugh, seeming nearly oblivious to his men whom ley dead on the floor around him. 

"Your friend carl did the same fuckin thing9. Have you seen him recently? is he well." Negan rests his barbed wire adorned base ball bat over his shoulder. His face reads like he knows something you don't. Sure you knew Carl would've gone after Negan, it was in his nature, he wouldn't  let that shit fly; but he'd said he was helping Enid find her way to hilltop, Carl wanted to make sure she got their safely, especially since he knew what kinda shit the saviours could pull when they really gave it a go, road blocks, hell they could've been after him, Negan did mention how good of a saviour he could carve Carl into .Little did you know that's exactly what he'd done.

"What?" You respond, "Taken a little of guard by Negan's teasing tone, feeling the pool of nerves in your gut rise. 

"You've got that pointed right at me, and you haven't fucking shot, Kid, you're not going to kill me, and look around...." he says his bare hand pointing around at all the Guards on watch now turned guns poised to shoot right at you the moment you try and pull something 

"The moment you decide to pull something, they'll gun you down before i even hit the floor but don't worry  I wont kill you, just as long as you don't pull any more shit like that." 

He utters signalling to Dwight as you lower the gun subconsciously, feeling the heavy piece of artillery be taken out of your hands, "c'mon kid" Negan says, turning on his heel to look at you as he walks over too to the stairs which lead up too the main entrance to the sanctuary. His hand drags up the rusting yellow railing as you quietly oblige following him up the stairs, he kicks the door open, the loud bustling of the market space quieting as everyone falls to their knees, he raises his eyebrows at you. "see that, mmh? that's what they're going to do for your boy mr Carl Grimes one day." He turns around resting against the railing, his people don't let up as you quietly observe.

"still kneeling?" he asks, when you nod in return a smirk falls upon his face, he runs his tongue over his front teeth, tilting his head. Turning around to his people. "back to it." He bellows, he leads you around the sanctuary, the dim grey walls, becoming repetitive and draining he leads you up too the very top showing you into his room.

"You're not going to kill me, so what are you going to do." you spit watching him signal to sit down.

"I just want to know somethings, you're close to Carl hmm? I saw the way your face fuckin' dropped the moment I mentioned him." he smirks reasting his hands between his legs as he sits, resting the stupid fucking base ball bat against the side of the chair.

When you respond with a mere nod, his face drops, twisting slightly into one of annoyance.

"Are you close to Carl, a nod isn't an answer." He says noticing your eyes widen and gloss over slightly.

"yeah" you swallow, he clearly isn't satisfied with your answer as he doesn't say anything silently waiting for more, "he's my boyfriend, why do you give a fuck." You say trying to hide the fact you really regret doing this, and Negan can see right through the act, 

"mmm, theirs a reason I don't want your whimpy fucking ass as a saviour, look at you. You belong with rick and his pussy brigade, I bet he's been pissin' his pants not knowing where dear little carl is." The annoying smirk never ever leaves his face as he sees your expression faulter.

Theres a heavy knock against the door.

Negan's smirk doesn't drop as he registered the knock like he knows who it is, "come in" he yells out, the door creeks on its hinges as it opens. You don't dare turn around too see who it is, 

Carl's eye widens as he spots you, registering the look on Negan's face yet keeping up the expression Negan had trained him to do. He hesitates before speaking.

"The irons ready, Negan" He says fighting with everything in him not to call out to you, let you know he's fine, he's been trying to get back to you. The voice clocks in your brain instantly, head turning too look at him, but he signals to you, tiny but the message gets through. It reads as don't, it isn't worth it. 

"come on then, Kid, you as well." he says, looking at your seated form. Beckoning you with two fingers, the walk down stairs is quiet and tense, Carl had changed, his hair was shorter and he didn't have his eye covered, though every movement of the taut skin rippled and tinted pinks and reds a lingering reminder of what he'd been though, he was simply a child of this world and he had its face. The whole exposed scar thing was clearly something Negan had enforced, Carl wouldn't have ever wanted it out for his own deep insecurity with it and the almost scary impression it gave to those who saw it. His usual clothes, replaced by the darker albeit harder wearing clothes of a saviour and though you'd hate to admit it he did look like a saviour, he himself hated it, fitting the part, the part didn't fit him he was slowly being wedged into a box he wasn't supposed to be in. 

The main room is full of kneeling people, Carl drops to his knees as well. 

"You kneeling, you're the lucky ones, you're just here to witness what happens when you fuck up big time" the man spoke with an almost rhythm, like he was singing. 

"however, this un-fucking-lucky fuck, he'll remain a permanent reminder not to fuck up or you'll end up lookin' fucked." he's an animated speaker, waving his arms around and making a scene off everything he did, he was all for the dramatics. He nods the gaggle of people standing up though you just keep your eyes on  Carl as he walks over to the furnace, slipping a heatproof glove on and grabbing a metal rod out of a bucket of cold water using it too pull the read hot iron out of its container, Negan slips his own glove on, watching as a man is stumbled in bag on his head being kicked forward by Arat. 

The man is pushed down into the chair and Negan pulls the bag off his head, Carl seems to edge closer to you, as Negan places the iron on the side of the mans face, his skin bubbling and melting into the metal of the iron, and all you can do is stand their in horror unable to stop negan. You doubted you'd get a moment alone with carl.

Once all was said and done downstairs Negan lets Carl off to get back onto his tasks taking you upstairs, sitting back down again.

"so, do you and the pee pee pants crew have any plans to take out more of my mother fucking men?" Negan dampens his lower lip with his tongue anticipating your answer.

"No. We don't, not that I know of. I- I don't go to the meetings, i work in the infirmary I'm not in the millita." you ramble hoping, praying its enough.

"So, you're not even good enough for ricks pricks, and yet you still decided to come to my main fucking place an gun down half-a-fucking-dozen of my men." he looks you up and down like you're dirt. 

Theirs a loud panicked knock at the door revealing a guy.

"what the fuck now?" Negan is visibly upset from being interrupted again.

"Dixon, he's causing problems out their man, you gotta sort him out."

Negan rolls his eyes in annoyance running his tongue over the smooth enamel of his front teeth grabbing Lucille as he slips out following the man leaving you alone, or so you thought. Carl slips into the room, closing the door behind him.

"Oh fuck, I've missed you so bad." He says eye falling too the ground like he hasn't got permission to look at you, you stand up from where you're sat standing in front of him, your gaze softens, tilting your head.

"look at me..." you breathe, reaching out too bring his chin up too look at you. "I- I'm sorry Carl, should've tried to find you, i thought you were at hilltop, Oh god look what they've done to you..." You whisper meeting his eye.

"I'm so sorry I should've-"you stammer, but he cuts you off bringing his cold hands to your face pulling you in for a kiss, Its anything but tender, fast and hungry like he's drinking in as much of you as he physically can before the two of you inevitably get drawn apart once again, and you find yourself doing the same, feeling the oh so familiar warmth of his hands as they snake around your hips.

When you pull apart, his head falls onto your shoulder, he whispers, fast and manic like he needs the message to get out as fast as he physically can 

"I've been trying to get out, i will do it, ill find my way back to you, my dad , Michonne, Jude, everyone. Its easier to just do what he says than be punished, he barely lets me out of sight, And fuck I don't know what to do, but ill figure it out. I have to figure it out. I'm trying...I'm trying... I'll make my way back to you..."

[betterbemeta]

As it is right now, machine learning image generation is classist. It depends strongly on the human audience's eye for pareidolia to smooth over its inconsistencies and find patterns in its noise where its procedural generation falls short.

This means that the less opportunity a person has to gain context for information, the more likely 'AI art' is to be convincing. As long as that person has been given a baseline to 'believe' the general arrangement of elements, AI art will 'make sense' even if that baseline is just exposure to more acontextual imagery. Which is what the machine learning's algorithms were trained on in the first place.

For example, 'AI' right now struggles to coherently depict plants. When it's not blurry, indistinct plant fur, leaves from different kinds of plants appear on the same stem, plants from the wrong biome are included in 'nature' images. Someone who has very little educational opportunity, but has seen movies where people walk through jungles or forests as set pieces or something, might not notice the difference. And why do you 'need' to know if the plants look right, poor person; you'll never leave your immediate area or take a biology class!

Someone without the opportunity or comfort to travel might not recognize that a cityscape has been artificially generated, depicts no actual real-world city. Is that supposed picture of Dubai or New York City or Cairo showing a real place that exists? Who cares, you're too poor to ever go there.

Searching for information about animal species, even, can get messed up by generated 'content.' Do servals have ear tufts? What kind of insect is that? What species of lizard or snake am I looking at? You don't deserve to know what kinds of animals are real. What time do you have to go to a zoo, if there's even one around you?

The less money you have, the more likely you are to be surrounded by advertising and "AI Art" is ideal for advertising because it only tells a very simple story at best. There's no complicated human emotions; its literally made of averages of what has been seen before. Marketing and advertising content often replaces actual art that might be a window into a greater world. It may even just be dropped in there to fill the awkward silence or blankness that would have otherwise surrounded marketing efforts-- commercials would be surreal without some say-nothing 'music' track behind them, and billboards would be creepy without the graphic noise that surrounds the product and its information. Someone who passes through more monetized public spaces per day will see more of it than someone who inhabits private property.

And like, at the end of the day if you are wealthy... you probably don't care about any of this. You have access to whatever you want, so why do you care what's real? You trust you can 'pay for' the real thing, right?

Plus, who knows the economic status of who generated imagery the machine learning algorithms train on? It's all stolen.

Photography has been critical in modern history for bringing 'the world' across social divisions of class, race, geographical divides. Photographers and filmmakers, along with other visual artists as well as musicians, writers, and journalists associated with all of these disciplines give us lenses, framing, voices, and perspectives to understand our greater world no matter where we are. Hell, identifying the human intentions BEHIND those lenses, framings, voices is key to our development. No matter your circumstances, with a strong grasp of media literacy anyone can sit down and say, wait a minute, is this real, would it be true for me too? Or is this someone's point of view?

To the point of view of wealth and capital, the working class and those without wealth who cannot work (disabled people, displaced people, homeless people shut out of employment, and more) do not deserve to know about reality. To that point of view, nonwealthy people don't deserve to even know who created the perspectives they're allowed to see. You can be born, get trained to work, go to work, come home to the minimum, repeat, and die having seen no images of reality for all they care. They'd like that! How can you dream of something outside the current exploitative structure if you can't even trust you know what plants and animals and cities look like, outside your tiny box?

[mariacallous]

The phone or computer you’re reading this on may not be long for this world. Maybe you’ll drop it in water, or your dog will make a chew toy of it, or it’ll reach obsolescence. If you can’t repair it and have to discard it, the device will become e-waste, joining an alarmingly large mountain of defunct TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, cameras, routers, electric toothbrushes, headphones. This is “electrical and electronic equipment,” aka EEE—anything with a plug or battery. It’s increasingly out of control.

As economies develop and the consumerist lifestyle spreads around the world, e-waste has turned into a full-blown environmental crisis. People living in high-income countries own, on average, 109 EEE devices per capita, while those in low-income nations have just four. A new UN report finds that in 2022, humanity churned out 137 billion pounds of e-waste—more than 17 pounds for every person on Earth—and recycled less than a quarter of it.

That also represents about $62 billion worth of recoverable materials, like iron, copper, and gold, hitting e-waste landfills each year. At this pace, e-waste will grow by 33 percent by 2030, while the recycling rate could decline to 20 percent. (You can see this growth in the graph below: purple is EEE on the market, black is e-waste, and green is what gets recycled.)

“What was really alarming to me is that the speed at which this is growing is much quicker than the speed that e-waste is properly collected and recycled,” says Kees Baldé, a senior scientific specialist at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research and lead author of the report. “We just consume way too much, and we dispose of things way too quickly. We buy things we may not even need, because it's just very cheap. And also these products are not designed to be repaired.”

Humanity has to quickly bump up those recycling rates, the report stresses. In the first pie chart below, you can see the significant amount of metals we could be saving, mostly iron (chemical symbol Fe, in light gray), along with aluminum (Al, in dark gray), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni). Other EEE metals include zinc, tin, and antimony. Overall, the report found that in 2022, generated e-waste contained 68 billion pounds of metal.

E-waste is a complex thing to break down: A washing machine is made of totally different components than a TV. And even for product categories, not only do different brands use different manufacturing processes, but even different models within those brands vary significantly. A new washing machine has way more sensors and other electronics than one built 30 years ago.

Complicating matters even further, e-waste can contain hazardous materials, like cobalt, flame retardants, and lead. The report found that each year, improperly processed e-waste releases more than 125,000 pounds of mercury alone, imperiling the health of humans and other animals. “Electronic waste is an extremely complex waste stream,” says Vanessa Gray, head of the Environment and Emergency Telecommunications Division at the UN’s International Telecommunication Union and an author of the report. “You have a lot of value in electronic waste, but you also have a lot of toxic materials that are dangerous to the environment.”

That makes recycling e-waste a dangerous occupation. In low- and middle-income countries, informal e-waste recyclers might go door-to-door collecting the stuff. To extract valuable metals, they melt down components without proper safety equipment, poisoning themselves and the environment. The new report notes that in total, 7.3 billion pounds of e-waste is shipped uncontrolled globally, meaning its ultimate management is unknown and likely not done in an environmentally friendly way. Of that, high-income countries shipped 1.8 billion pounds to low- and middle-income countries in 2022, swamping them with dangerous materials.

High-income countries have some of this informal recycling, but they also have formal facilities where e-waste is sorted and safely broken down. Europe, for example, has fairly high formal e-waste recycling rates, at about 43 percent. But globally, recycling is happening nowhere near enough to keep up with the year-over-year growth of the waste. Instead of properly mining EEE for metals, humanity keeps mining more ore out of the ground.

Still, the report found that even the small amount of e-waste that currently gets recycled avoided the mining of 2 trillion pounds of ore for virgin metal in 2022. (It takes a lot of ore to produce a little bit of metal.) The more metals we can recycle from e-waste, the less mining we’ll need to support the proliferation of gadgets. That would in turn avoid the greenhouse gases from such mining operations, plus losses of biodiversity.

The complexity of e-waste, though, makes it expensive to process. As the chart above shows, even an ambitious scenario of a formal e-waste collection rate in 2030 is 44 percent. “There is no business case for companies to just collect e-waste and to make a profit out of this in a sustainable manner,” says Baldé. “They can only survive if there is legislation in place which is also compensating them.”

The report notes that 81 countries have e-waste policies on the books, and of those, 67 have provisions regarding extended producer responsibility, or EPR. This involves fees paid by manufacturers of EEE that would go toward e-waste management.

Of course, people could also stop throwing so many devices away in the first place, something right-to-repair advocates have spent years fighting for. Batteries, for instance, lose capacity after a certain number of charge cycles. If a phone can’t hold a charge all day anymore, customers should be able to swap in a new battery. “Manufacturers shouldn't be able to put artificial limitations on that ability,” says Elizabeth Chamberlain, director of sustainability at iFixit, which provides repair guides and tools. That includes limiting access to parts and documentation. “Repair is a harm-reduction strategy. It's not the be-all-end-all solution, but it's one of many things we need to do as a global society to slow down the rate at which we're demanding things of the planet.”

At the core of the e-waste crisis is the demand: A growing human population needs phones to communicate and fridges to keep food safe and heat pumps to stay comfortable indoors. So first and foremost we need high-quality products that don’t immediately break down, but also the right to repair when they do. And what absolutely can’t be fixed needs to move through a safe, robust e-waste recycling system. “We are consuming so much,” says Baldé, “we cannot really recycle our way out of the problem.”

[asp1990]

Day 13: Sunday January 12th, 2025 [Kyoto]

Breakfast: konbini onigiri & latte

Lunch: karaage & strawberry mochi

Dinner: duck ramen & duck rice 🦆🍜

Steps: 16,545

We started our day at Fushimi Inari Shrine today! We were hoping to maybe get there before the crowds but the advice we’d seen online had been to get there at 7:30am and that was never going to happen. We got there just after 10am and it was PACKED. Oh my goodness. So many people.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is like the Japanese Kokoda Trail in Melbourne (aka the 1000 steps). You walk up Mt Inari, to the summit, through 1000 tori gates ⛩️ that are beautifully similar but somehow all different. There are hundreds of tiny shrines as you climb and lots of little tea rooms and, somehow, vending machines, for you to stop at along the way. It took us just over an hour to get to the top. The first section was absolutely packed with tourists and more Japanese girls getting their Instagram pictures. People were stopping dead in the middle of packed crowds to get their Instagram pictures which was very frustrating. The higher we climbed, the less people there were and the more opportunity there was for photos without people in the background. The summit was beautiful and we made an offering at the main shrine.

Once we got back to the bottom, we collected a printed goshuin for our books and walked through the jam-packed market stalls. We had been there for 4 hours and were definitely in need of snacks. I bought some chopsticks for friends and was going to get them engraved, but there was a 50 minute wait. In a series of unfortunate events, a girl bumped into me and made my drop my phone on the ground, I got split up from Morgan as we tried to find snacks, my eSIM data ran out and I couldn’t contact Morgan and when we did finally buy some chicken karaage, I dropped mine on the ground. I was instantly grumpy and needed space away from being jostled to get over myself. We sat on a bench near the station and ate our food before getting on the train to go home and figure out what the afternoon was going to look like.

We spent an hour at home relaxing under the heater before going to the laundromat to do some laundry before the last leg of our trip. We figured there’d be a coin exchange machine there, and there was, but we only had large denomination notes and the store the laundromat was attached to refused to exchange notes. Morgan had to go hunting for a konbini and I sat and watched our clothes. We had enough coins for one load of wash & dry, but needed coins for an additional “wash only” load. Riveting stuff. We had overpriced coffees and edamame in the adjoining cafe while we waited. The cafe was strange and the coffee was not worth the ¥800 it cost.

Both loads took 40 minutes and we carted them back home in bags and our carry on luggage. We decorated the apartment with our wet clothes and walked to a popular restaurant called Duck Gion Noodles. It is only known by emojis (🦆🍜). We had to line up in a dark alley for 90 minutes, which felt ridiculous, but all the reviews said it was worth the wait. One review literally said “Was spending more than two hours in a dark, narrow alleyway worth it? Surprisingly, yes.“ it was 7:30pm when we arrived so we either had to wait or risk queueing up somewhere else closer to closing time and missing out on dinner. Initially the wait was fine, but the cold really started getting to us. The concrete we were standing in was really pushing the cold up through our shoes and I was wearing gumboots! It really would have been great if they’d had a light, blankets while we were waiting and maybe a bit of music. We would never line up like that, for that long, in Melbourne.

We were invited in just before 9pm and were pleased to just be inside. Our order had been taken while we were waiting so our food arrived within 5 minutes of sitting down. The meal was delicious, with succulent duck, buckwheat noodles and a perfectly boiled duck egg. We had a house beer each and a duck rice to share. We both wolfed down our meals and were back in the cold just before 9:30pm. The ratio of time in queue to time enjoying food was way off. Was it worth the freezing wait time? Maybe. It was delicious but we were so cold when we left that we marched straight home and the rest of our evening was spent under the covers in our apartment.

[crplpunkklavier]

Hey there! I might be applying for a PhD program in Germany next year and I was wondering if there was anything about Germany that's normal for natives but foreigners are confused about that you'd like to share? For instance, I was once told virtually nothing in Germany opens on Sundays, things like that <3

that's correct yeah, definitely get your shopping done BEFORE sundays and official holidays, because all stores will be closed. that includes places like pharmacies and doctor's offices! if you have a medical emergency on a weekend it's basically like having one in the middle of the night, so you'll have to find your local emergency numbers to call. the only places that ARE open on sundays/holidays are gas stations and some kiosks, so if you just need drinks and/or snacks, you're fine.

every bottle or can you buy that has this symbol on it:

you can return at stores with Pfandautomaten. theyre machines in grocery stores that you can feed your bottles/cans into, and they print a receipt that you hand over at the register, and youll get a little bit of money back. depending on what it was, it can be like 25 ct per can or something. its money you already paid when you bought it, so you dont get free money or anything, but its nice. also my non-german spouse just loves standing in front of those machines and watching.

our infrastructure is pretty bad in comparison to, like, most other industrialized places lol. its highly unlikely that there will be public wifi where you are, so get set up with a sim card asap. reception/data might still be pretty bad if youre not in a big city. the plus side of how backwards we still are about many things is that germans still looove cash. there will be places that do not take cards. usually its smaller places like bakeries or a farmers market stand. but it will happen

do go to a bakery whenever you can. you can get bread rolls for 30 cents and entire loaves for 3 bucks. theyre good!

there will be no a/c unless youre in a store or in a place with properly funded trains/trams. no residential buildings have a/c. i will be very surprised if your university does

if youre moving into any sort of student housing deal you might not have to deal with this, but if you're going to rent an apartment here, chances are it won't have a kitchen, and potentially it won't have flooring either. you have to get that yourself. it then ~belongs to you~ and you can take it with you when you move again, or try to sell it to the next tenant, and apparently people think that thats a good way to do this? i dunno lol. you can get kitchens at ikea. i'm sorry.

i'm not entirely sure where you're from, but if you don't get cold winters there then it might be worth to read up generally on how to dress for central european winters. you're not going to get fully snowed in unless you're moving all the way south to the alps, but we get snow sludge pretty much everywhere, and temperatures will drop to around 0° celsius.

april and may will feel crazy. you'll get 27°c one day and a thunderstorm will cool things down to 10° the next day.

most people speak english! we learn it in school. some will be apprehensive to do it, many will have a thick accent. but you will probably get through to people if your german isn't solid enough yet.

we have a large turkish population! try their food, go to their supermarkets, it's worth it!

good luck!! i will rb this if i think of anything else <3

[charlesandmartine]

Thursday 17th October 2024

The moment you push the button to confirm the purchase of a flight departing 08.25 somehow you find yourself thinking oh that's a sensible time to fly. So it was, but then a couple of days ago we found ourselves thinking well if we fly 08.25 domestic, we would need to be at the airport by, say, 07.00. Oh, that means we need to be in the city by 06.30. Oh, no buses that early, it'll have to be the ferry. Hmm, best ferry will have to be 06.00, the first one of the day. 50 minute trundle down to the wharf with suitcases. No-way! Call for Uber. Paul, our driver turned up at 05.10! So much for a 'late' flight! From the empty wharf T2, we watched it gradually getting light; rowing teams already out in their skiffs training before work maybe. Soon other bleary eyed fellow travellers scuffed up to the barrier, some used to such early starts and others with suitcases, couples not communicating. Glorious sight of the sun peeping past the sails of the Opera House as we thumped into Circular Quay 3. Well it all went like Swiss clockwork, without the cuckoo that is. The attendant free check-in and baggage drop meant there was no grumpy Qantas person to deal with this grumpy person, so now all going like a Singer sewing machine. Approaching the security scanner the lady asks in a big loud Aussie twang, any hip replacements? She knows her market quite clearly. Queensland and Northern Territories Arial Services is what it stands for and it appeared like Qantas was the only airline that flies from Terminal 3. A flat white and we were almost human. As we waited at the gate there was a final call for the flight to Wagga Wagga! (So good they named it twice) I can imagine what Wagga Wagga might be like, but we were heading to Darwin. When Burke and Wills set off on their expedition from Melbourne across the interior in 1860, they could never have believed it would be possible to travel the breadth of Australia, safely or otherwise in 4 hours! On the other hand, I find it incredible that you can fly for over 4 hours and still be in the same country/ continent; that's the equivalent of flying London to Cyprus! Australia is huge place as we flew mile after mile over the red earth.

The work experience schoolboy plonked the Boeing 737-800 down on an unsuspecting runway and brought it to its stand. I say work experience, that's what it felt like. We were invited to exit via the backdoor and the moment our faces touched the sun's rays, we immediately felt like we'd walked into an open oven. We boarded the plane in Springtime Sydney and re-emerged to 34 degrees, late morning in the tropics rising to 36 late afternoon. Wow what a contrast! Uber ordered and back into cold air-conditioning.

We are staying in an apartment hotel with full cooking facilities on the Esplanade overlooking the Timor Sea. It is fabulous. A short walk around the block and we were at Coles buying a rubbery chicken, sweetcorn and SB. Perfect.

It was still sweltering at 18.00 but sitting on our balcony listening to a multitude of birds heralding the sunset, as the sun gradually disappears into the shimmering sea; what can be better than that! Clearly with temperatures as they are here, we are going to have to manage our activities carefully.

[riftwalker-limbro]

stolen dreams

masterpost

----

"-which means this Maroo might be in real trouble," the Lotus finished.

The Operator was already nodding and strapping their skana onto their back, They had no idea what an Arcane Codex was, and apparently, neither did Ordis. "Why have I never heard of them?" he asked, seemingly talking to himself. "Ordis needs to do some research."

Ordis seemed to have gotten over his major resentment of Grineer to not even comment on a mission rescuing someone from their grasp - or the prospect of this new thing was really just that interesting to him. The Operator was glad for him to direct his focus outward for once, and not on running endless diagnostics to find out what was wrong with him. The glitch in his voice hadn't gone away even after they'd finished fixing the Orbiter up, after he'd indicated all of his segments had been returned to him. They were a little worried about it - but whenever he did glitch, it sounded like he was speaking more from whatever his equivalent of a heart was, less politeness wrapped around his often-blunt message, so they couldn't be too heartbroken about it. Still, something about it bothered them.

He dropped them off on Venus, without any of his usual parting words or well-wishes. He must have been really absorbed by the research. Nonetheless, their target was marked, and they hunted down Maroo quickly.

She had some more information about the mysterious Arcane Codices for them - or, more accurately, their current market value. She blustered and swaggered, and eventually, they managed to pull the location of the Codex she'd sold to the Corpus out of her, and off they went to retrieve it. Ordis had kept his thoroughly-engrossed-in-new-things silence all this time, but once they returned with the Codex, he spoke up again.

He let them know the Corpus have three codices and the Grineer two - and the Lotus revealed the plan: to retrieve all of them and examine them together, something which has never been done before.

When Maroo pronounced Ordis' name as Ordo, and he did not manage to restrain an annoyed glitch in her digital direction, the Operator felt laughter bubbling up in their chest. Weirdly, there was no way out for it, so they just felt giddy for a minute while they finished discussing the next course of action.

They stole the Grineer codices, and then the ones acquired by the Corpus. After the first few, Ordis spoke up again.

"Operator, have you looked at these codices? They're absolutely beautiful! Composed with such elegance and grace, I have never seen anything like them. Is there even an Operator capable of writing anything so perfect?" He sounded absolutely mesmerized by them, and it fired off a little pang of something inside their chest.

"Writing?" they signed at his camera, curious and surprised at his enthusiasm. "The Arcane codices are writings?"

"Of a sort," Ordis replied, excited, "it's code! As in machine code, that something could execute! I don't think we have enough fragments for me to be able to emulate its intended receptacle yet, but-"

"Whoa, I don't think I'd want to plug some random code we stole from Grineer and Corpus into you," they interrupted his train of thought. "Who knows what that might be, if it could cause harm?"

Ordis halted, considering. "Ordis thinks the Operator is probably right," he eventually said, sounding almost disappointed, before quickly perking up, finding another way forward. "But we have to find the original machine for these codices! I simply must see this work of art in action."

"It is done," the Operator signed, feeling giddy again, excited as well, before asking Ordis for the coordinates to the next target location. Something about this discovery, that the codices were readable code, shook loose some old memories in their brain. Examining them could wait, though. They were almost as curious as Ordis was.

With the final codices also in their possession, they trekked back to the machine that Maroo extracted the codex from that had started this whole mess. Maroo herself, in charge of the mission as she was the only one who had ever been to the machine and made it back alive, was so distinctly focused on getting treasure, getting rich, making a profit - it rankled the Operator a little. What about finally finding out the answer to what must've been a mystery for decades before they found out about it?

They semi-tuned out the Lotus and Maroo fighting over the comms, and quietly signed at Ordis to receive directions, which he gave, also quiet, also focused. When Maroo noticed they'd reached the machine, she finally shut up and tuned in to what was going on again, right as they inserted the combined codices into the dusty-looking machine.

What assaulted their ears next was an unimaginable noise, distorted by the passage of time and, undoubtedly, the buildup of Infested grime within the machine. There was a pattern to the static, but the only thing the Operator could glean was that there was a message the noise was obscuring. They were about to hit the machine with their skana in frustration, but-

"All is silent and calm," a voice repeated, now almost clear. "Hushed and empty is the womb of the sky."

For just a moment, they were stunned silent. Then, something in a more distant part of the derelict howled in agony, the Lotus yelled "watch out!", and an Infested, larger than any other they'd seen so far, was barreling towards them. With some trouble, they dispatched it, and then ran for extraction, not waiting to see if anything else would be after them or willing to investigate the howling.

Maroo made a lot of noise about treasure, or rather, the present lack of any, but the Lotus seemed unsettled enough to not be needled by it, and neither was the Operator. Once safely back on the Orbiter, they were finally able to relax again, to shiver and discard the Infested remains upon their skin.

"So you're saying," Ordis mused, "there was no treasure? No cure for cloning syndrome, no lost Tenno Cephalon?"

A pang went through them. Was Ordis still thinking about another Cephalon to replace him? Before they could reply, Maroo made a quick exit, now that there was no profit to split.

"You're still thinking about other Cephalons?" the Operator signed up at Ordis, as soon as Maroo and the Lotus' lines went dead, and they were alone once more.

"Well, in this case, Ordis was rather hoping for another Series-2 Cephalon," Ordis shared, sounding a bit embarrassed, but also tired. "You see, there are many newer Cephalon around now, and I've been talking to them over the Weave since you returned to me, but there's not really anyone like Ordis, anymore."

The melancholy in his voice was tangible. They dropped down to the floor, leaning against the wall of the Liset, and patted the metal plating with one hand, raising another to reply. "Was there, in the past?"

"Oh yes," Ordis began, enthusiastically, "there was- there… Hm."

He stayed quiet for a moment. "There was?" the Operator prompted.

"Ordis feels like he can almost remember them," he said, "but not quite."

"Aw," they signed. "I'm sorry."

"That's okay, Operator. The new Cephalons are interesting, too, and they have so many new capabilities - they might even…" and he suddenly trailed off.

They tilted their head, and when that didn't work to bring their Cephalon back to the present, they crossed their arms as well, amused.

"Oh!" Ordis suddenly said, surprising them a little. "Operator, I know what we should do next."

"What?"

"One of the newer Cephalon - one called Simaris, and he is so great, so knowledgeable - he sent out a request for help, just now. Some of his sentinels have been trapped in a Grineer prison block."

They clapped their hands together once, and stood back up from the floor, fluidly turning back to the nav console. "Sounds easy! Let's go rescue some sentinels. Reckon he might let me keep one?"

"Oh, Operator, imagine," Ordis said, sounding star-struck. "That would be so gracious of him!"

The Operator shook their head at the console in front of them, thoroughly amused. "You want to get your head out of those clouds anytime soon, or should I input the coordinates myself? I might make a mistake if I do, though."

"Oh, uhm-"

"The sooner we might get this done, we might even be able to go speak to him!" they encouraged him, warmth suffusing their body at how fun it was to poke at Ordis.

With a flustered silence, the nav coordinates appeared on the console, and their course was set.

[fishboneart]

Fishbone #004

I miss Secret Horses

I started this project in a mood of hostility towards ai art, but I really liked the Secret Horses phase of machine learning images about, like what, three, four years ago? The delicious soft, dreamlike slurry of form and colour, it was beautiful.

I gather they were produced by slow models only capable of small, low-res images and that was one of the reasons that style died out, faster, higher resolution models outcompeted them--plus a lot of very boring people just prefer photoreal hypertiddies over Secret Horses. Couldn't be me. She's too gorgeous.

Anyway that's what this Fishbone is about. It's not a Creature, it's just a eulogy to a more interesting time in ai art, as I'm sure this entire project will become in time as the models get better and fuck up less. It's also kind of a eulogy to blockmounted airbrush posters of the 1980s and 90s. 10 layers, 5 source images.

I did notice that machine learning has a problem with horse muzzles. It frequently gets them so wrong that it's actually kind of charming (to me at least). I now have a folder full of nothing but fucked up horse noses and no idea what I'm going to do with them yet but watch out for that.

I've been musing on how the conversation here seems very focused on the alleged Midjourney deal to the exclusion of the alleged OpenAI deal. Text-based LLMs need continuous training in a way that image models don't, because they need up-to-date information about idk news and science and whatever so they're not stuck in 2022 forever. Realistically we were probably already mass-indexed years ago but relatively clean sources of new real-language text are swiftly becoming scarce as LLM output floods the web, and both structurally and culturally tumblr is inhospitable to the kinds of marketing and engagement bots taking over other sites (we have other more different horrible problems). So a deal with OpenAI actually going through is marginally more plausible (in my opinion) than one with Midjourney--and also much funnier.

Like, full respect to everyone who started posting nonsense and gibberish when the 404 piece dropped, but we've been posting nonsense and gibberish on this site for 17 years, it is the song of our people. The tumblr accent is real and ChatGPT developing it would be the funniest thing ever. Like, tell me this would not be objectively hilarious;

User: Hey ChatGPT how many countries are there? ChatGPT: More than seven User: No how many countries in the world? ChatGPT: At least three User: There are definitely more than three countries in the world ChatGPT: wellyou'renotwrong.gif

This would be "ChatGPT writes Omegaverse" all over again. Picture ChatGPT swearing up and down that Scorsese made a film called Goncharov because we like to play pretend. Or helpfully informing Alien fans of the Bush Cut because we like to log on and tell bald-faced lies for no reason. This is the webbed site of all time. We piss on the poor here sir. You can feed seventeen years of tetries choclay ornage and penis blast and homestuck rp to an LLM, but Watch Out.

But to be serious for a moment, the various flavours of fascists are probably a bigger hazard to any potential value of this site's text data. I would suggest Matt "please notice me Elon" Photo fix moderation and kick out the trash if he actually wants a real deal to happen but it'll be funnier to watch him get led down the garden path.

[cindylouwho-2]

Etsy Second Quarter 2023 Earnings Report - Get Ready For More Pressure To Discount

Above - Slide 9 from Etsy's Second Quarter 2023 report. © Etsy

Etsy's second quarter 2023 results beat projections, but the outlook for the third quarter was weak, and that has led to a sharp drop off of the stock. No doubt investors were unimpressed that Etsy has no convincing plans to begin increasing sales and profits again. The call announced nothing truly new in that vein.

First, the resources for this post:

the press release

transcript of the conference call

slides from the conference call

video of the call (click on “Webcast” under "Latest Quarterly Results")

my summaries of the second quarter 2022, and the first quarter 2023 for comparison

The basic numbers (covering April to June 2023, compared to the same period in 2022):

Sales on Etsy were $2.6 billion, down 0.7% 

Total sales for all 4 marketplaces (Etsy, Reverb, Depop, Elo7) were $3.0 billion, down 0.6% 

Etsy’s revenue (including all 4 sites) was $628.9 million, up 7.5%

Seller service revenue was up a whopping 20.8% to $175.9 million, while marketplace revenue was up 3.1% to $453 million

Net Income was $61.9 million, down 15.3% (in part due to the impairment charge from the impending sale of Elo7)

Active buyers on Etsy alone stand at 90.6 million, an all-time high

Active sellers on Etsy alone are 6.3 million, the second large jump in a row compared to the previous quarter; numbers had been stagnant through the end of 2021 and all of 2022 [Note that “active” means one charge or transaction in the past 12 months; many “active” shops currently have nothing for sale.]

Sales where the buyer and/or the seller was not in the United States were 47%, up from 44% last year, but most Etsy buyers are still in the US

Sales on mobile are now at 68%, up from 66% last year [this includes both the buyer app and mobile browsers]

I'll cover the points of the biggest interest to sellers below, with my comments in square brackets.

Advertising (On and Off Site)

Etsy Ads (the onsite ones) again helped increase the services income. CFO Rachel Glaser mentioned that "XWalk, our real time retrieval engine" was now a part of the Ads algorithm. [It was previously introduced in search results, to help draw connections between multiple sets of data rapidly as someone is searching.] They are now able to show ads in more places, increasing site profit.

Offsite Ads (aka performance marketing) cost roughly the same in the quarter, due to testing which led to Etsy reducing money spent on some platforms.

From the press release: "We expanded performance marketing investments from 13 to 20 non-core countries, now including the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Slovakia."

Etsy Search

CEO Josh Silverman feels Etsy has made progress in search relevancy (Slide 6). Therefore, the next step is to "better identify the quality of each listing, so that from this relevant result set, we bring the very best of Etsy to the top. Our data shows that high quality listings attract a higher value buyer than our average listings, attract more repeat and habitual buyers, and most importantly, they often convert over 2 times better than other listings." No actual definition of "high quality listings" is provided. [This may be a refinement of the listing quality score.]

Etsy is training its machine learning software on "...a best of Etsy library, which is curated by expert merchandisers based on the visual appeal, uniqueness, and apparent craftsmanship of an item." (Slide 7) The models are then expected to find the best items out of large search results, and return those for searchers. [I hope these aren't the same human curators who supposedly selected the "Etsy's Pick" listings, as my only Etsy's Pick listing is a commercial pendant on my hand-cut chain. Totally Etsy-legal, and even appealing and well-made, but hardly unique - there are hundreds or maybe even thousands of these pendants on Etsy right now. (In my defense, there were a lot fewer when I started selling them.) Only my chain falls close to the realm of unique, due to the clasp.]

Etsy is also working on "collapsing" similar items on the first few search pages into sets, and offering shoppers several different sets to choose from, "showing you just the very best of each of a set of very different items". [I believe I have seen a test like this, where several rows of slightly different search results are shown for some queries. It could also mean an expansion of the "more like this" link under individual listings on the search page.]

[It appears to be time to accept that Etsy is not interested in being a site for niche searches any more; management only cares about the large searches converting. I understand what the engineers were trying to do with training the systems by adding more items in and letting the customers signal which results were good, but small and niche searches have only gotten worse over the past 3-4 years, and they've now effectively told us we can't expect any more improvement in this area. Search effort is now going to winnowing down large searches, not improving very small ones.]

Upcoming Promotional Plans & Focus

As usual, Etsy is focussed on retaining existing buyers as well as adding new ones. Hitting an all-time high in active buyers this quarter shows some progress in this area.

Given that "[t]here's no question this is a very promotional environment," we should expect to see more features around sales and discounts, as shown in Slide 9 at the top of this post. Those 3 boxes are part of a scrolling banner at the top of the Etsy home page in the US right now. [If you have tried to run a sale lately, you have already noticed that the lowest percentage off sale is 25%. You can enter a custom amount, but 25% is the default if you don't click for more options.]

They are already testing "a new price discovery functionality utilizing buyer demand data to help sellers think about how to price their items and when or how they might best use promotions as part of their mix." An example is shown in the top right corner of Slide 11 - see below:

[If this works as badly as the old tool from years ago - the one that compared hammered sterling silver pendants to plastic ones - then it will be a waste of time. And don't forget the tool that tells us our shipping for large heavy items is overpriced because it is comparing the listing to the shipping rates of the smallest items in the same category. The list goes on... However, many sellers would appreciate knowing more about what similar items are actually selling for, and it is possible Etsy heard that request, so we shouldn't write this test off before we see it.]

The new wedding registry has been doing well, with 14% of sales coming from first-time buyers. Etsy is opening a baby registry in August, and more categories may follow.

Silverman said that the Purchase Protection Program (PPP) "...reduced the issue resolution time for cases by approximately 85%". [I guess when there are rarely humans involved in adjudicating cases, that does tend to save time.] The site will soon mention this in even more places, to increase buyer confidence and bring them back more often.

Also on the way: "Buyers will see some new AI assisted ways to find crafted quality gifts for the loved ones at great value with even more confidence that these gifts will arrive on time." Gifting will continue to be a promotional focus.

Payment Reserves

Following the recent media attention to payment reserves, one analyst asked what the policy was meant to do in terms of benefiting the marketplace, and how the company is addressing the complaints. Silverman fell back on the "sellers not able to fill a rush of sales" example [even though that hasn't been the main reason for most of the recent reserves], and mentioned the previous day's announcement that reserves would be changing.

Depop, Reverb, and the Exit of Elo7

Etsy is selling Elo7, and is apparently taking a loss on it.

Depop's sales and revenue grew this quarter (year over year); new ideas and developments are detailed on Slide 16.

Reverb is still doing better than the general musical instrument market; details on Slide 17.

Miscellaneous

sales were down this quarter due to the month of April; May and June were both up, as was July [so the third quarter is up so far, but they noted the company traditionally has lower sales in August and September]. Silverman stated that the economy is in a down cycle, but that cycles change.

sales are declining in United States zip codes where the average household income is below $100,000 a year, and are growing in the zips above $100K a year.

the increase in marketplace revenue was partially due to having more non-US transactions, which usually have higher payment processing fees charged.

"advances in ML capabilities have enabled our enforcement models to detect an increasing number of policy violations." Slide 10 states they've "...removed 29% more listings for violating our Handmade Policy in 1H 2023 vs. 2H 2022". It's not clear if this includes all the ones they removed in error and later had to reinstate. [It's not just handmade takedowns that were mostly wrong. They caught my 2 "drug paraphernalia" listings earlier this year, as well as many top selling item from big shops, for no reason. As I explained in my coverage of the annual transparency report, only 5% of items Etsy reviews for violations actually need to be removed from the site. Increasing takedowns is a bad thing when they are almost all wrong, and especially when real and easy-to-find violations - such as boxes of commercial potato chip packages and actual roach clips - remain up. This initiative continues to get an F.]

almost 20% of vintage shops are choosing to use the new "Make an Offer" option.

Why Etsy Needs To Do More To Impress Investors

If you watch or read these calls every quarter, or even just read my summaries, you will note that there was very little new here, and certainly not much new that one would expect to substantially increase sales across the site. I think the upper brass recognized that, as the "challenging" times were stressed repeatedly, and they are still occasionally comparing numbers to the pre-pandemic stats.

Yes, it is great that Etsy has basically retained all of its pandemic growth; many other platforms - such as Wayfair and eBay - did not. However, analysts seem to be over that now, and are looking to future growth. Etsy's response seems to be that any substantial increase in marketplace sales will have to wait until the current uncertain world economic cycle improves. While they talk about incremental increases in sales expected from some current projects, their own projections for the third quarter aren't reflecting that growth, given Etsy now has more active buyers and sellers than ever before.

Have they possibly lost too many successful shops due to overreaching with payment reserves? Are buyers expressing concerns on that topic? Now that many more sellers can opt out of Offsite Ads, is that dragging down the company's income at all? Are they truly out of new ideas? These are questions that the analysts and the media need to be asking.

Perhaps Etsy is planning on another release that will lift marketplace sales, but right now they are keeping it secret. The company probably can't afford to wait on this much longer, though, if it cares about the stock price.

[lucajack123]

Introduction to Power BI: Empowering Data-Driven Decision Making

In today’s business environment, making data-driven decisions is crucial for staying competitive and efficient. With the increasing volume and complexity of data, organizations need robust tools to process, analyze, and visualize that information. Microsoft Power BI is one such tool, designed to turn raw data into actionable insights that empower decision-makers across various industries. Here’s a look at how Power BI helps businesses enhance decision-making capabilities.

For those looking to enhance their skills, Power BI Online Training & Placement programs offer comprehensive education and job placement assistance, making it easier to master this tool and advance your career.

What is Power BI?

Power BI is a powerful business analytics tool developed by Microsoft. It enables users to connect to a wide range of data sources, analyze the data, and create interactive reports and dashboards. This platform allows businesses to consolidate data from different sources and visualize it in a way that makes it easy to draw meaningful conclusions. With Power BI, organizations can turn complex data into simple, actionable insights that drive informed decision-making.

Key Features of Power BI

1. Data Connectivity Power BI offers seamless connectivity to multiple data sources, including on-premises databases, cloud services, and Excel files. Whether your data resides in SQL databases, Google Analytics, or even Excel sheets, Power BI allows you to consolidate and analyze it in one place.

2. Data Transformation and Modeling Power BI comes with powerful tools to clean and transform data. Using Power Query and Data Analysis Expressions (DAX), users can prepare their data for analysis by performing transformations, merging datasets, and calculating key metrics. This ensures that the data is structured and formatted in a way that best serves the business goals.

3. Interactive Dashboards and Visualizations Power BI makes it easy to create interactive and visually compelling dashboards. You can use various visual elements like charts, graphs, and maps to represent your data. These dashboards are interactive, allowing users to filter, drill down, and explore data at different levels of detail.

4. Real-Time Analytics With Power BI, businesses can track performance metrics in real time. This is especially useful for monitoring live data, such as sales performance, customer engagement, or inventory levels. The ability to access real-time analytics helps companies stay responsive and make decisions based on the most current data.

5. AI Integration Power BI integrates with artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, providing automated insights and advanced analytics. This allows users to uncover hidden patterns, forecast trends, and detect anomalies without requiring advanced data science skills. It’s simpler to master this tool and progress your profession with the help of Best Online Training & Placement programs, which provide thorough instruction and job placement support to anyone seeking to improve their talents.

Benefits of Using Power BI

1. Easy-to-Use Interface Power BI’s drag-and-drop interface makes it accessible to users of all technical backgrounds. Whether you’re an analyst or a business executive, you can create detailed reports and dashboards without needing coding expertise. This simplicity allows more team members to engage with data and contribute to decision-making.

2. Enhanced Decision Making Power BI helps businesses make informed decisions faster by providing real-time data and interactive reports. With up-to-date insights at their fingertips, decision-makers can act swiftly and accurately, whether they’re responding to market shifts, adjusting strategies, or optimizing operations.

3. Cost-Effectiveness Compared to traditional business intelligence tools, Power BI is relatively affordable. Microsoft offers a free version, while the Pro version provides even more advanced features at a competitive price point, making it a suitable option for businesses of all sizes.

4. Collaboration and Sharing Power BI facilitates collaboration by allowing users to share dashboards and reports with colleagues. Teams can access the same data and collaborate on insights, ensuring alignment and better decision-making across departments.

5. Scalability Power BI is highly scalable, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. From small startups to large enterprises, organizations can leverage Power BI’s features to meet their specific needs, whether it’s managing data from a single department or integrating company-wide business intelligence.

Applications of Power BI Across Industries

1. Sales and Marketing Power BI enables sales teams to track performance, monitor sales pipelines, and measure campaign effectiveness. Marketing teams can analyze customer behavior, measure ROI, and optimize their strategies. With interactive dashboards, both teams can make data-driven decisions to improve engagement and sales outcomes.

2. Finance and Accounting Finance teams use Power BI to monitor key financial metrics such as cash flow, expenses, and revenue forecasts. Custom financial reports help decision-makers stay on top of business performance and make informed financial decisions.

3. Healthcare In the healthcare industry, Power BI helps organizations track patient data, monitor treatment outcomes, and optimize operations. It enables healthcare providers to deliver better patient care while reducing operational costs.

4. Manufacturing and Supply Chain Power BI is used to track production efficiency, manage inventory, and analyze supply chain performance. Manufacturers can identify bottlenecks, forecast demand, and optimize workflows for greater productivity.

5. Human Resources HR departments use Power BI to monitor employee performance, track recruitment efforts, and analyze workforce data. Insights gained from this data help HR teams improve talent acquisition, retention, and overall employee satisfaction.

Getting Started with Power BI

1. Download Power BI Desktop Start by downloading Power BI Desktop, which is free and offers all the necessary tools to build reports and dashboards on your local machine.

2. Connect to Data Sources Connect Power BI to your data sources, whether it’s from Excel, databases, or cloud services. This step allows you to consolidate all your data into one platform for analysis.

3. Build Reports and Dashboards Use Power BI’s intuitive interface to create your reports. Select visual elements like charts, tables, and graphs to represent your data, and customize your dashboard to highlight key business metrics.

4. Share and Collaborate Once your reports are complete, publish them to the Power BI service for cloud access. Share your insights with colleagues and collaborate on data-driven decisions in real time.

Conclusion

Power BI is an essential tool for organizations looking to leverage their data for better decision-making. Its powerful features, such as real-time analytics, interactive dashboards, and seamless integration with multiple data sources, make it an invaluable asset for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are in sales, finance, marketing, or any other department, Power BI empowers you to explore data, visualize trends, and make informed, data-driven decisions that drive business success.

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PMI Meets AI: Reinforcement Learning Models Revolutionizing Forex Trading Imagine the PMI (Purchasing Managers Index) as the Forex market’s crystal ball, revealing economic trends and helping traders navigate turbulent waters. But what if we told you there's a game-changing way to interpret this data? Enter reinforcement learning models—AI-powered tools that take PMI data and decode hidden trading opportunities like a pro detective uncovering clues in a blockbuster mystery. Section 1: The Magic of PMI and Why It’s Your Forex Superpower PMI isn’t just a dry economic indicator; it’s a treasure map pointing to the economy’s strengths and weaknesses. This monthly report tells you how industries are performing, offering early warnings about expansions or contractions. Example: When PMI climbs above 50, traders cheer—it signals economic growth. When it drops below 50, it’s time to batten down the hatches. Pro Tip: Think of PMI as a fitness tracker for the economy. High readings mean it’s in marathon shape, while low readings hint it’s binge-watching sitcoms instead. Section 2: Enter Reinforcement Learning: The AI Ninja of Forex Trading Reinforcement learning models are the new kids on the Forex block, but they’re already stealing the show. By learning from their own mistakes (and successes), these AI systems optimize trading strategies in real-time. How It Works: Reinforcement learning models mimic trial-and-error processes—like training a dog, but instead of treats, they use rewards like profit signals. Analogy Time: Imagine having a trading assistant who remembers every mistake you've made and promises never to repeat them. That’s reinforcement learning in action—your AI-powered buddy who’s smarter than your best trading day. Section 3: PMI Meets AI: A Match Made in Trading Heaven Combining PMI insights with reinforcement learning models creates an unstoppable duo. The PMI provides the “what,” while reinforcement learning delivers the “how.” Case Study: A trader using PMI to anticipate market trends trained a reinforcement learning model to identify optimal entry and exit points. Result? A 30% increase in profits compared to manual analysis. Section 4: Hidden Patterns and AI Insights Most Traders Miss Reinforcement learning models can uncover patterns in PMI data that are invisible to the naked eye. Think of it as CSI: Forex Edition. Example: While manual traders may spot a PMI increase, reinforcement learning can predict which sectors will thrive and align trades accordingly. Pro Tip: To spot these opportunities, train your reinforcement learning model with diverse data sets, including historical PMI trends, global economic factors, and even geopolitical events. Section 5: Busting Myths About AI in Forex Trading - Myth: AI models replace human traders. - Reality: They’re tools, not magicians. Reinforcement learning models enhance your strategy but still require human oversight. - Myth: AI is only for tech-savvy traders. - Reality: Modern tools make reinforcement learning accessible, even if your tech skills are limited to resetting your Wi-Fi router. Section 6: Ninja Tactics for Integrating PMI and Reinforcement Learning - Start Small: Test reinforcement learning models with demo accounts before risking real money. - Feed the Machine: Provide diverse and high-quality data, including PMI, for optimal performance. - Adjust Regularly: Fine-tune the model as market conditions evolve. - Combine Forces: Use PMI to set the stage and let reinforcement learning identify the perfect moments to act. Conclusion: Your Secret Weapon Awaits The combination of PMI insights and reinforcement learning models isn’t just the future of Forex trading—it’s the present. With this powerhouse strategy, you can sidestep common pitfalls and uncover hidden opportunities that most traders overlook. So, ready to revolutionize your Forex game? Explore tools like our Smart Trading Tool and Forex Community Membership for exclusive tips and advanced methodologies. Your trading success starts now! —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated Read the full article

[h2ohealth]

When Looking for a Full House Water System, Who Do You Call?

Access to clean, fresh, and safe water is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for every household. The benefits of having a full house water system go beyond mere convenience—they enhance your quality of life by providing better-tasting coffee, pure water for cooking, softer skin after bathing, and extended appliance longevity. Choosing the right system can be challenging, but H2O Water and Health Solutions has proven itself as the industry leader in whole-house water systems. Through relentless research, exceptional technology, and customer-focused services, H2O Water and Health Solutions has set itself apart as the go-to provider for water purification solutions.

Why Do You Need a Full House Water System?

Water in many homes contains contaminants such as chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, and hard minerals. These impurities not only affect the taste of your water but can also harm your health and damage appliances over time. A full house water system ensures that every drop of water in your home is purified, giving you peace of mind and a healthier living environment. Here’s why it matters:

Improved Taste and Odor: Removes unpleasant tastes and odors caused by chemicals like chlorine.

Health Benefits: Eliminates harmful contaminants such as lead, arsenic, and bacteria.

Protects Appliances: Prevents scale buildup in dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters.

Soft Skin and Hair: Softened water improves skin and hair health.

Eco-Friendly: Reduces reliance on bottled water, cutting down on plastic waste.

Why H2O Water and Health Solutions is the Market Leader

After six months of rigorous research, we have identified the key factors that make H2O Water and Health Solutions the leader in the industry. Here’s what sets them apart:

1. Advanced Filtration Technology

H2O Water and Health Solutions employ cutting-edge filtration systems that remove most contaminants from water. Their systems use a multi-stage purification process, which includes:

Sediment Filtration: Removes dirt, sand, and rust particles.

Activated Carbon Filtration: Eliminates chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and bad odors.

Reverse Osmosis: Filters out heavy metals, bacteria, and other microscopic impurities.

UV Sterilization: Destroys bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens without the use of chemicals.

This combination ensures that your water is not only clean but also safe and healthy.

2. Customization for Every Home

No two households are the same, and H2O Water and Health Solutions understands this. Their team conducts a comprehensive water analysis to determine the unique needs of your home. Based on the results, they customize a water filtration system tailored specifically to your water source and consumption habits.

3. Energy Efficiency

The company’s systems are designed to be energy-efficient, ensuring that your water purification needs do not come at the cost of higher utility bills. Their technology optimizes filtration processes to reduce water wastage, making their systems an environmentally friendly choice.

4. Exceptional Durability and Low Maintenance

H2O Water and Health Solutions uses high-quality materials that ensure long-lasting performance. Their systems are built to endure tough conditions, and the components require minimal maintenance. This reliability translates to fewer service calls and long-term savings for homeowners.

5. Outstanding Customer Service

H2O Water and Health Solutions prioritizes customer satisfaction at every step. Their trained professionals provide seamless installation, thorough post-installation checks, and responsive support to address any concerns. Their commitment to customer care has earned them a reputation for excellence.

6. Affordable Pricing with Financing Options

Clean water should be accessible to everyone. H2O Water and Health Solutions offers competitive pricing and flexible financing options, making it easier for families to invest in a full-house water system without financial strain.

Key Benefits of Choosing H2O Water and Health Solutions

Investing in an H2O Water and Health Solutions system comes with numerous advantages, including:

A Healthier Lifestyle

Filtered water reduces the intake of harmful substances, leading to better overall health. From drinking water to bathing and cooking, every aspect of your daily life benefits from cleaner water.

Cost Savings

Eliminating the need for bottled water and reducing wear and tear on appliances can save hundreds of dollars annually. H2O Water and Health Solutions systems are built to last, ensuring long-term value for your investment.

Enhanced Home Value

A full-house water filtration system is a valuable home upgrade that can attract buyers and increase property value. H2O Water and Health Solutions provide systems that are aesthetically integrated, ensuring they complement your home’s infrastructure.

Eco-Conscious Living

By choosing an H2O Water and Health Solutions system, you are making an environmentally responsible choice. Their systems reduce plastic waste and conserve water resources, contributing to a sustainable future.

How to Choose the Right System for Your Home

Selecting the ideal full-house water system requires careful consideration of several factors. H2O Water and Health Solutions simplify this process by offering:

Free Water Testing: Identify the specific contaminants in your water.

Expert Consultations: Get professional advice on the best system for your needs.

Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprise costs.

Testimonials from Satisfied Customers

H2O Water and Health Solutions has transformed the lives of countless families. Here are some of the glowing reviews from their customers:

“We’ve noticed a dramatic improvement in the taste of our water and coffee. Plus, my dishwasher works so much better now!”

“The team at H2O Water and Health Solutions was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient. I couldn’t be happier with my new system.”

“I love knowing that every tap in my home delivers safe and clean water. It’s a game-changer for our family.”

Take the First Step Toward Cleaner Water Today

When looking for a full-house water system, H2O Water and Health Solutions should be your first call. With their unmatched technology, personalized solutions, and commitment to excellence, they are the undisputed leader in the field. Don’t compromise on the quality of your water make the choice that prioritizes your health, home, and environment. To learn more call (928) 899-7504 or https://h2ohealth.com

[jcmarchi]

Big tech’s AI spending hits new heights

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/big-techs-ai-spending-hits-new-heights/

Big tech’s AI spending hits new heights

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In 2024, Big Tech is all-in on artificial intelligence, with companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta leading the way.

Their combined spending on AI is projected to exceed a jaw-dropping $240 billion. Why? Because AI isn’t just the future—it’s the present, and the demand for AI-powered tools and infrastructure has never been higher. The companies aren’t just keeping up; they’re setting the pace for the industry.

The scale of their investment is hard to ignore. In the first half of 2023, tech giants poured $74 billion into capital expenditure. By Q3, that number had jumped to $109 billion. In mid-2024, spending reached $104 billion, a remarkable 47% rise over the same period a year earlier. By Q3, the total hit $171 billion.

If this pattern continues, Q4 might add another $70 billion, bringing the total to a truly staggering $240 billion for the year.

Why so much spending?

AI’s potential is immense, and companies are making sure they’re positioned to reap the rewards.

A growing market: AI is projected to create $20 trillion in global economic impact by 2030. In countries like India, AI could contribute $500 billion to GDP by 2025. With stakes this high, big tech isn’t hesitating to invest heavily.

Infrastructure demands: Training and running AI models require massive investment in infrastructure, from data centres to high-performance GPUs. Alphabet increased its capital expenditures by 62% last quarter compared to the previous year, even as it cut its workforce by 9,000 employees to manage costs.

Revenue potential: AI is already proving its value. Microsoft’s AI products are expected to generate $10 billion annually—the fastest-growing segment in the company’s history. Alphabet, meanwhile, uses AI to write over 25% of its new code, streamlining operations.

Amazon is also ramping up, with plans to spend $75 billion on capital expenditure in 2024. Meta’s forecast is not far behind, with estimates between $38 and $40 billion. Across the board, organisations recognise that maintaining their edge in AI requires sustained and significant investment.

Supporting revenue streams

What keeps the massive investments keep on coming is the strength of big tech’s core businesses. Last quarter, Alphabet’s digital advertising machine, which is powered by Google’s search engine, generated $49.39 billion in ad revenue, a 12% year-over-year increase. This as a solid foundation that allows Alphabet to pour resources into building out its AI arsenal without destabilising the bottom line.

Microsoft’s diversified revenue streams are another example. While the company spent $20 billion on AI and cloud infrastructure last quarter, its productivity segment, which includes Office, grew by 12% to $28.3 billion, and its personal computing business, boosted by Xbox and the Activision Blizzard acquisition, grew 17% to $13.2 billion. These successes demonstrate how AI investments can support broader growth strategies.

The financial payoff

Big tech is already seeing the benefits of its heavy spending. Microsoft’s Azure platform has seen substantial growth, with its AI income approaching $6 billion. Amazon’s AI business is growing at triple-digit rates, and Alphabet reported a 34% jump in profits last quarter, with cloud revenue playing a major role.

Meta, while primarily focused on advertising, is leveraging AI to make its platforms more engaging. AI-driven tools, such as improved feeds and search features keep users on its platforms longer, resulting in new revenue growth.

AI spending shows no signs of slowing down. Tech leaders at Microsoft and Alphabet view AI as a long-term investment critical to their future success. And the results speak for themselves: Alphabet’s cloud revenue is up 35%, while Microsoft’s cloud business grew 20% last quarter.

For the time being, the focus is on scaling up infrastructure and meeting demand. However, the real transformation will come when big tech unlocks AI’s full potential, transforming industries and redefining how we work and live.

By investing in high-quality, centralised data strategies, businesses can ensure trustworthy and accurate AI implementations, and unlock AI’s full potential to drive innovation, improve decision-making, and gain competitive edge. AI’s revolutionary promise is within reach—but only for companies prepared to lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and long-term results.

(Photo by Unsplash)

See also: Microsoft tries to convert Google Chrome users

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

Tags: ai, Amazon, Google, meta, microsoft

[industrynewsupdates]

Retail Vending Machine Market Size, Share and Growth Opportunities to 2030

The global retail vending machine market size was valued at USD 51.91 billion in 2021 and is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7% from 2022 to 2030. 

Increasing demand for on-the-go snacks and beverages due to the hectic lifestyles of consumers is boosting product sales through vending machines. The industry growth can also be attributed to the ability of these machines to deliver goods quickly, making it an extremely convenient option for consumers. From offices to high-end restaurants and crowded bars to public places, accessing food & beverage items is made simple with a vending machine. This, in turn, is likely to drive their demand.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Retail Vending Machine Market

The coronavirus pandemic has unfavorably influenced the consumer goods industry with lockdowns having an impact across the supply chain. The impact on food and beverage companies will likely be complex, influencing both the demand and supply. In contrast, a change in consumer behavior has been observed, generating demand for various consumer goods, wherein several consumers have switched between brands.

Simultaneously, manufacturers are deciding on how to handle potential disruption across the supply chain and are identifying areas to improve and meet consumer demand. Vending machine operators have witnessed the impact and a fall in revenue, especially in April 2020 as compared to 2019.

Sales through vending machines look promising as vending machines not just offer snacks and beverages but can also sell other consumables, such as cigarettes and lottery tickets. Hence, operators can generate significant revenue through these devices by strategically placing them in corporate buildings, schools, malls, train stations, and airports, among others. For instance, in August 2019, it was announced that over 1 million plastic bottles had been recycled through reverse vending machines in Iceland stores. The healthy lifestyle trend is becoming increasingly prominent across the globe on account of growing consumer awareness regarding healthy food and beverage options.

According to 2019 research by The Vending People, the sales of zero-sugar beverages surged by 38.2% from the first half of 2018 to the first half of 2019, in the U.K., while sales of high-sugar content beverages have seen the biggest drop. Sales of these drinks were down by 19.8% when compared to the same timespan the previous year. Low-calorie drinks outsold other beverages by 196%, showing that customers are looking for healthier alternatives.

Retail Vending Machine Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global retail vending machine market report based on type, payment mode, application, and region:

Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

• Food

• Beverage

• Games/Amusement

• Tobacco

• Candy & Confectionery

• Beauty & Personal Care

• Ticket

• Others (Ice-cream Vending Machines, Pharmacy, Vending Machine, etc.)

Payment Mode Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

• Cash

• Cashless

Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

• Commercial Places

• Offices

• Public Places

• Others

Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Central & South America

• Middle East & Africa

Browse through Grand View Research's Electronic & Electrical Industry Research Reports.

• The global electronic soap dispenser market size was valued at USD 929.0 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2024 to 2030.

• The global smart toys market size was valued at USD 12.37 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2024 to 2030.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Operators are adopting various strategies to maximize profit by being at the right location with the right products, sourcing products in bulk, investing in intelligent vending machines to gain consumer insights, and other ways. For instance, hot food and sandwich vending machines may do well in business environments, universities, and schools, while, in most public locations, hot drinks like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate have high demand. Industry players face intense competition from each other, as some of them operate at several locations and have large customer bases. The presence of many small-scale players is also leading to increased competition.

• In 2021, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida (Coke Florida) and Coca-Cola Co. teamed up to launch a new Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) at the University of Miami. The materials are crushed and sorted by type, then collected, treated, and prepared for re-use. The process ultimately reduces carbon emissions across the supply chain and supports Coca-Cola’s World Without Waste initiative to recycle a bottle or can sold by 2030

• In 2022, under the CSR initiative to curb carbon footprint, the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (DICCI) jointly announced the installation of 1,000 Plastic Reverse Vending Machines (RVMSs). The launch was announced under the ‘Swachh Delhi, Swavalambi Delhi’ initiative. The RVMs will be installed at as many public places like malls, metro stations, and parks as possible

• In 2021, the MENstruation Foundation, a nonprofit organization that fights “period poverty”, introduced a sanitary pad vending machine, the first in Africa. The pads are locally manufactured and compostable. The foundation says that it aims to reach at least 100 schools by 2022 and hopes to double that in the years to come. Support from the corporate sector-such as MTN, which has sponsored two machines-was crucial

Key players operating in the global retail vending machine market include:

• Azkoyen Group

• Cantaloupe Systems

• Westomatic Vending Services Limited

• Royal Vendors, Inc.

• Glory Ltd.

• Sanden Holding Corp.

• Seaga Manufacturing Inc.

• Orasesta S.p.A

• Sellmat s.r.l.

• Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.

Order a free sample PDF of the Retail Vending Machine Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.