#tech review

[mostlysignssomeportents]

The Brave Little Toaster

Picks and Shovels is a new, standalone technothriller starring Marty Hench, my two-fisted, hard-fighting, tech-scam-busting forensic accountant. You can pre-order it on my latest Kickstarter, which features a brilliant audiobook read by Wil Wheaton.

The AI bubble is the new crypto bubble: you can tell because the same people are behind it, and they're doing the same thing with AI as they did with crypto – trying desperately to find a use case to cram it into, despite the yawning indifference and outright hostility of the users:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/09/autocomplete-worshippers/#the-real-ai-was-the-corporations-that-we-fought-along-the-way

This week on the excellent Trashfuture podcast, the regulars – joined by 404 Media's Jason Koebler – have a hilarious – as in, I was wheezing with laughter! – riff on this year's CES, where companies are demoing home appliances with LLMs built in:

https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-hgi6c-179b908

Why would you need a chatbot in your dishwasher? As it turns out, there's a credulous, Poe's-law-grade Forbes article that lays out the (incredibly stupid) case for this (incredibly stupid) idea:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2024/03/29/generative-ai-is-coming-to-your-home-appliances/

As the Trashfuturians mapped out this new apex of the AI hype cycle, I found myself thinking of a short story I wrote 15 years ago, satirizing the "Internet of Things" hype we were mired in. It's called "The Brave Little Toaster", and it was published in MIT Tech Review's TRSF anthology in 2011:

http://bestsf.net/trsf-the-best-new-science-fiction-technology-review-2011/

The story was meant to poke fun at the preposterous IoT hype of the day, and I recall thinking that creating a world of talking appliance was the height of Philip K Dickist absurdism. Little did I dream that a decade and a half later, the story would be even more relevant, thanks to AI pump-and-dumpers who sweatily jammed chatbots into kitchen appliances.

So I figured I'd republish The Brave Little Toaster; it's been reprinted here and there since (there's a high school English textbook that included it, along with a bunch of pretty fun exercises for students), and I podcasted it back in the day:

https://ia803103.us.archive.org/35/items/Cory_Doctorow_Podcast_212/Cory_Doctorow_Podcast_212_Brave_Little_Toaster.mp3

A word about the title of this story. It should sound familiar – I nicked it from a brilliant story by Tom Disch that was made into a very weird cartoon:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8C_JaT8Lvg

My story is one of several I wrote by stealing the titles of other stories and riffing on them; they were very successful, winning several awards, getting widely translated and reprinted, and so on:

https://locusmag.com/2012/05/cory-doctorow-a-prose-by-any-other-name/

All right, on to the story!

One day, Mister Toussaint came home to find an extra 300 euros' worth of groceries on his doorstep. So he called up Miz Rousseau, the grocer, and said, "Why have you sent me all this food? My fridge is already full of delicious things. I don't need this stuff and besides, I can't pay for it."

But Miz Rousseau told him that he had ordered the food. His refrigerator had sent in the list, and she had the signed order to prove it.

Furious, Mister Toussaint confronted his refrigerator. It was mysteriously empty, even though it had been full that morning. Or rather, it was almost empty: there was a single pouch of energy drink sitting on a shelf in the back. He'd gotten it from an enthusiastically smiling young woman on the metro platform the day before. She'd been giving them to everyone.

"Why did you throw away all my food?" he demanded. The refrigerator hummed smugly at him.

"It was spoiled," it said.

#

But the food hadn't been spoiled. Mister Toussaint pored over his refrigerator's diagnostics and logfiles, and soon enough, he had the answer. It was the energy beverage, of course.

"Row, row, row your boat," it sang. "Gently down the stream. Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily, I'm offgassing ethelyne." Mister Toussaint sniffed the pouch suspiciously.

"No you're not," he said. The label said that the drink was called LOONY GOONY and it promised ONE TRILLION TIMES MORE POWERFUL THAN ESPRESSO!!!!!ONE11! Mister Toussaint began to suspect that the pouch was some kind of stupid Internet of Things prank. He hated those.

He chucked the pouch in the rubbish can and put his new groceries away.

#

The next day, Mister Toussaint came home and discovered that the overflowing rubbish was still sitting in its little bag under the sink. The can had not cycled it through the trapdoor to the chute that ran to the big collection-point at ground level, 104 storeys below.

"Why haven't you emptied yourself?" he demanded. The trashcan told him that toxic substances had to be manually sorted. "What toxic substances?"

So he took out everything in the bin, one piece at a time. You've probably guessed what the trouble was.

"Excuse me if I'm chattery, I do not mean to nattery, but I'm a mercury battery!" LOONY GOONY's singing voice really got on Mister Toussaint's nerves.

"No you're not," Mister Toussaint said.

#

Mister Toussaint tried the microwave. Even the cleverest squeezy-pouch couldn't survive a good nuking. But the microwave wouldn't switch on. "I'm no drink and I'm no meal," LOONY GOONY sang. "I'm a ferrous lump of steel!"

The dishwasher wouldn't wash it ("I don't mean to annoy or chafe, but I'm simply not dishwasher safe!"). The toilet wouldn't flush it ("I don't belong in the bog, because down there I'm sure to clog!"). The windows wouldn't retract their safety screen to let it drop, but that wasn't much of a surprise.

"I hate you," Mister Toussaint said to LOONY GOONY, and he stuck it in his coat pocket. He'd throw it out in a trash-can on the way to work.

#

They arrested Mister Toussaint at the 678th Street station. They were waiting for him on the platform, and they cuffed him just as soon as he stepped off the train. The entire station had been evacuated and the police wore full biohazard containment gear. They'd even shrinkwrapped their machine-guns.

"You'd better wear a breather and you'd better wear a hat, I'm a vial of terrible deadly hazmat," LOONY GOONY sang.

When they released Mister Toussaint the next day, they made him take LOONY GOONY home with him. There were lots more people with LOONY GOONYs to process.

#

Mister Toussaint paid the rush-rush fee that the storage depot charged to send over his container. They forklifted it out of the giant warehouse under the desert and zipped it straight to the cargo-bay in Mister Toussaint's building. He put on old, stupid clothes and clipped some lights to his glasses and started sorting.

Most of the things in container were stupid. He'd been throwing away stupid stuff all his life, because the smart stuff was just so much easier. But then his grandpa had died and they'd cleaned out his little room at the pensioner's ward and he'd just shoved it all in the container and sent it out the desert.

From time to time, he'd thought of the eight cubic meters of stupidity he'd inherited and sighed a put-upon sigh. He'd loved Grandpa, but he wished the old man had used some of the ample spare time from the tail end of his life to replace his junk with stuff that could more gracefully reintegrate with the materials stream.

How inconsiderate!

#

The house chattered enthusiastically at the toaster when he plugged it in, but the toaster said nothing back. It couldn't. It was stupid. Its bread-slots were crusted over with carbon residue and it dribbled crumbs from the ill-fitting tray beneath it. It had been designed and built by cavemen who hadn't ever considered the advantages of networked environments.

It was stupid, but it was brave. It would do anything Mister Toussaint asked it to do.

"It's getting hot and sticky and I'm not playing any games, you'd better get me out before I burst into flames!" LOONY GOONY sang loudly, but the toaster ignored it.

"I don't mean to endanger your abode, but if you don't let me out, I'm going to explode!" The smart appliances chattered nervously at one another, but the brave little toaster said nothing as Mister Toussaint depressed its lever again.

"You'd better get out and save your ass, before I start leaking poison gas!" LOONY GOONY's voice was panicky. Mister Toussaint smiled and depressed the lever.

Just as he did, he thought to check in with the flat's diagnostics. Just in time, too! Its quorum-sensors were redlining as it listened in on the appliances' consternation. Mister Toussaint unplugged the fridge and the microwave and the dishwasher.

The cooker and trash-can were hard-wired, but they didn't represent a quorum.

#

The fire department took away the melted toaster and used their axes to knock huge, vindictive holes in Mister Toussaint's walls. "Just looking for embers," they claimed. But he knew that they were pissed off because there was simply no good excuse for sticking a pouch of independently powered computation and sensors and transmitters into an antique toaster and pushing down the lever until oily, toxic smoke filled the whole 104th floor.

Mister Toussaint's neighbors weren't happy about it either.

But Mister Toussaint didn't mind. It had all been worth it, just to hear LOONY GOONY beg and weep for its life as its edges curled up and blackened.

He argued mightily, but the firefighters refused to let him keep the toaster.

#

If you enjoyed that and would like to read more of my fiction, may I suggest that you pre-order my next novel as a print book, ebook or audiobook, via the Kickstarter I launched yesterday?

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/doctorow/picks-and-shovels-marty-hench-at-the-dawn-of-enshittification?ref=created_projects

Check out my Kickstarter to pre-order copies of my next novel, Picks and Shovels!

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2025/01/08/sirius-cybernetics-corporation/#chatterbox

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

[chase-omega]

Here are 3 important tips to know to keep your Steam Deck experience from being absolutely ruined. Follow these 3 tips and the Steam Deck will be the best gaming device this generation. But if you don't then you'll feel like you wasted over 400 bucks.

1. Do not touch the volume settings in Desktop Mode. Linux is broken and it will destroy your resolution and audio. You will be forced to factory reset.

2. When playing in docked mode, do not plug your dock into one of those HDMI adapter things that let you plug multiple devices into one HDMI port on the TV. Give the Steam Deck it's own HDMI port directly on the TV. I was playing the Wii U earlier and then played my Steam Deck and the resolution settings were permanently ruined and unfixable even after a factory reset. Giving the dock it's own HDMI port fixed the issue. But it's funny to think that the Wii U broke my Steam Deck for a bit.

3. If a game in your Steam Library says it isn't supported by the Steam Deck, just give it a try anyway. For example, Sonic Adventure is displayed as "unsupported" but I managed to finish the game's entire Story Mode without any problems. Valve has yet to completely update the info on what is and isn't compatible. So far in my experience the only games the Steam Deck struggles with out of the box are ones that are in Early Access or ones that use Easy Anticheat (except for Halo for some reason, I can play the campaigns in Master Chief collection just fine).

I am speaking entirely from experience.

I do recommend getting this device but please be very careful with it.

[technowarriorsontumbler]

check out the video review of the classic Skullcandy smokin buds 2 wireless its amazing it's been reuploded & cleaned up share your thoughts in the comments & Give the video a like & subscribe we have more amazing skullcandy content coming soon https://youtu.be/7PwWqwammX4

check out the video review of the classic

[tech-review]

Addition to my collection Halloween 2018 Steelbook

[noballoonsinspace]

does anyone know of any reasonably priced headphones that will actually stay on my apparently small head?? This is kind of infuriating. They’re all “adjustable” but only from large to even larger. What the fuck help :/

[vmantras]

Oppo Reno 14 Pro 5G Review – A Premium Statement with Bold Ambition

The Oppo Reno 14 Pro 5G, unveiled on May 15, 2025, stands as Oppo’s flagship-level offering wrapped in a stylish shell with a balanced mix of innovation, design, and performance. Though not yet launched in India, this device already signals Oppo’s intent to rival the best from Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi. Here’s a closer look at what makes this phone tick—and whether it’s worth your…

[abnormalpublishing]

Heads Up: Your Setup Matters More Than You Think

Affiliate Disclosure Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost. These commissions help support the site and allow me to continue creating content. We only recommend products we use, trust, or believe will benefit our readers. Thanks for your support! You can read our affiliate disclosures here.

This week’s writing tip is about our setups and why they matter.

Let’s be honest—if you’re spending hours at your desk cranking out words, comfort isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. So, if you’re shifting in your chair every five minutes or rubbing your wrists like an old wizard, you’re killing your flow. So, let’s fix that.

Drops Acquired

Start by getting the Right Gear – Your keyboard and mouse shouldn’t fight you. Nor should you be fighting it. I use the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT and SteelSeries Sensei Ten. They’re solid for writing and gaming, keeping things fast and responsive without wrecking my hands. While it’s true that they’re slightly outdated, they’ve held up well despite the wear and tear (though the soft cushion on the left is a bit worn down due to my wearing a smartwatch).

Other than that, they’re pretty reliable. One noteworthy upgrade is the K100 RGB, a step up from the K95. While I like my SteelSeries, I think the Logitech G305 Lightspeed mouse is comfortable, simple, and affordable. The other option is the Logitech G502 HERO for those (like myself) who prefer a wired connection.

Nice Pose, Bro

I get it; we slouch, but you need to stop sitting like a goblin. Feet flat, screen at eye level, wrists supported. Your spine will thank you. That’s the general advice . . . but if you want to bring your feet in and sit criss-cross applesauce, go for it; everyone’s comfortable doing things their way, just some reiteration, though.

Need a Light?

A not-so-fun fact: Staring at a screen in bad lighting equals instant headache. A monitor light bar or soft ambient lighting makes a world of difference. Also, it helps to have a pair of blue-light-filtering glasses to help take the strain off your eyes.

Distraction Eliminated

Whether you blast a playlist, put on noise-canceling headphones, or clean up your desk (yeah, I know, the horror . . . I’ll get to it soon™), it helps keep the chaos under control so your brain can focus.

I use the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1X, and they’ve been comfortable. I would use wireless, but I had a bad experience with a pair of Turtle Beach that, when charging, singed my chest hair. TMI? Perhaps. Still, that experience turned me off on wireless, aside from the battery not holding a charge. Everyone’s experience differs, so maybe something like the Arctis Nova 7 is worth it. Let me know your thoughts.

By the way, what tunes are you listening to? On Spotify? Follow me here.

Tonight, Your Hands Revolt

Take a break, friend. That is before your hands start cramping or your forearms and wrists start sounding like your Nana when she walks. One tip is to use the Pomodoro technique, which involves working on a task for 25 minutes and taking short breaks. This will help you stay focused and mentally sharp and prevent you from becoming a keyboard-mashing gremlin.

Bonus Mention: Invest in a Standing Desk

Standing desks offer several benefits, including increased energy, improved posture, and enhanced productivity. Alternating between sitting and standing helps burn calories, boosts mood, and reduces health risks associated with prolonged sitting. Moreover, these desks encourage movement, offer customization options, and contribute to a more effective work/play space. ErGear’s adjustable electric standing desk is quite nice (even that price tag isn’t bad).

Honestly, sitting all the time sucks and it can only be for so long before you go to get up and you’re hunched over with 80-year-old ass syndrome. Needless to say, using a standing desk can enhance focus and creativity at work and play. Invest in yourself because it’s your place and play space.

Personally speaking, I have an L-shaped desk, and I move every 15-25 minutes because the Bear God is nearing 40. That said, I am considering the Magnus Pro XL sit-to-stand desk from Secretlab. Also, I love their chair. I have been rocking an Attack on Titan XL TITAN Evo (seen below from this post) for a few years. Their skins are also phenomenal and can easily give you a new look.

As you can see, my desk area is chaotic, but that’s okay; I live in chaos 24/7.

TL;DR Version?

A carefully designed setup will dramatically enhance productivity, creativity, and enjoyment, whether you are engaged in a gaming marathon session or writing your next novel. The environment you establish impacts your mental state and, in turn, the quality of your work or play. The bottom line? Your setup should work for you, not against you. A little effort in your work/play space means more writing, less pain, and fewer reasons to rage quit your novel (or gaming session).

Until next time,

RJM

[nartouthere]

Just tested the new ZOWIE XL2586X+ and this thing is a beast! DyAc 2 makes motion clarity insanely smooth, and the 600 Hz refresh rate feels next level. Is it worth the upgrade? Check out my full review!

Get Yours Here: http://benqurl.biz/4iF1ewg

#ZOWIE #FastTN #DyAc2

[soupcanspecimen]

A Tech Revew Channel, but instead of technology they're reviewing Magic Items

[kylelowe]

Can I use the CineView Nano for my shoulder rig? This review is independently sponsored Accsoon did not sponsor this review.

Accsoon CineView Nano Adorama: https://adorama.rfvk.net/xkW1jx Amazon: https://amzn.to/4cXA6Xa

[newspatron]

5 Reasons to Buy the Infinix GT 20 Pro: Budget Gaming Beast

Got a question about the Infinix GT 20 Pro? Share your thoughts, experiences, and feedback in the comments below!

🎮📱 Are you a mobile gamer yearning for that flagship thrill without the hefty price tag? Well, get ready to level up your smartphone experience, because the Infinix GT 20 Pro might just be the secret weapon you’ve been waiting for! Infinix, known for delivering bang-for-your-buck devices, has stepped into the gaming arena with a phone that’s turning heads and raising eyebrows. 😲 It’s not just…

[inferno-boots]

Tech people of Tumblr what kind of laptop should I get? I want it to be

a) enough to do school work

b) light weight

c) able to play Minecraft

d) maybe run some design software

Help please

[digitaltechreviews]

The battle of the tiny action cameras ⬆️