My Posts

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  @hamed on March 2, 2025, 9:13 p.m.

  Exploring LaTeX with VS Code

  For the past few years, I've primarily used VS Code for programming. However, tonight, I decided to take a new step and use it for LaTeX typesetting as well.

  I used to rely on LyX for my document creation, but over time, I realized that I needed more control and flexibility over my documents. So, after some research, I discovered that there’s a LaTeX extension for VS Code. Intrigued by the possibility, I went ahead and installed it.

  The learning curve was a bit challenging at first, as I had to get used to the new setup and features. But after a few hours of figuring things out, I’m now really enjoying the experience. The combination of LaTeX and VS Code is actually quite powerful. The control and customization it offers are fantastic, and I’m excited to explore more features as I continue working with it.

  If you're looking for a more streamlined, customizable LaTeX experience, I highly recommend giving VS Code a try!

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  @hamed on March 2, 2025, 8:19 p.m.

  A Thank You to the Pioneers of AI

  I want to express my deepest gratitude to every computer engineer, researcher, and visionary who played a role in the invention and advancement of AI.

  For years, I had many projects in mind—ideas I was eager to bring to life. But like many independent creators, I faced the challenge of limited resources. Hiring a team, even a small one, required financial planning and patience.

  Yet, my passion for these projects never faded. Over the past two years, I have been working on them alone. But not entirely alone. AI has been my silent yet tireless assistant, helping me push forward without pause. Whether it’s writing, coding, brainstorming, or problem-solving, AI has allowed me to move faster, experiment more freely, and bridge the gap between ambition and execution.

  To those who made this possible—the engineers, the researchers, the innovators—I thank you. Your work has not only transformed industries but has also empowered individuals like me to pursue our dreams without waiting for the "perfect" conditions.

  This is just the beginning.

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  @hamed on Feb. 28, 2025, 7:50 a.m.

  What are some examples of jobs that have been replaced by technology

  Over the years, technology has significantly impacted various industries, leading to the replacement of many jobs. Here are some examples of jobs that have been replaced or are being replaced by technology:

  1. Assembly-line and Factory Workers: Robots have been used in manufacturing since the late 1950s, automating tasks such as assembly and production. This has reduced the need for human labor in these roles.

  2. Bus, Taxi, and Truck Drivers: The development of self-driving cars and autonomous vehicles threatens to replace millions of transportation jobs. Companies like Tesla and Uber are already testing these technologies.

  3. Phone Operators, Telemarketers, and Receptionists: Automated systems and AI-powered chatbots are increasingly used for customer service and telemarketing, reducing the need for human operators.

  4. Cashiers and Registers: Self-checkout systems have become common in retail, significantly reducing the number of cashiers required.

  5. Bank Tellers: ATMs and online banking have diminished the role of bank tellers, allowing customers to manage transactions independently.

  6. Travel Agents: The rise of online booking platforms has made it easier for people to plan and book their own travel, reducing the demand for travel agents.

  7. Data-entry Clerks: Automation software can now perform data entry tasks more efficiently and accurately than humans, reducing the need for manual data entry.

  8. Switchboard Operators: Automated switchboard systems have replaced the need for human operators to connect calls.

  9. Typists and Secretaries: Computers and voice recognition software have made tasks like typing and drafting documents obsolete.

  10. Pin Boys: The introduction of pin-setting machines in bowling alleys has eliminated the need for manual pin resetting.

  11. Lift Operators: Automated elevator systems have replaced the need for human operators to manage lift operations.

  12. Translators: AI translation tools can now translate multiple languages efficiently, potentially reducing the need for human translators.

  13. Proofreaders: AI-powered software can check grammar, punctuation, and spelling, reducing the reliance on human proofreaders.

  These examples illustrate how technology continues to transform the workforce, often by automating tasks that were once performed by humans.

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  @hamed on Feb. 23, 2025, 12:28 p.m.

  A Good Time for Developers with Inspiring Ideas

  We are living in an incredible era for developers. If you have an idea that excites you, the tools and support available today make it easier than ever to bring it to life.

  With AI assistants and agents, you are never alone in your coding journey. Whether you need help debugging, brainstorming solutions, or generating code snippets, AI can be your silent collaborator, always ready to assist.

  This is more than just convenience—it’s a shift in how we develop software. The barriers to execution are lower, allowing creativity to take center stage. A single developer with a bold idea and the right tools can build something groundbreaking.

  If you've been holding onto an idea, now is the time to start. With AI by your side, the only limit is your imagination.

  AI #Developers #Innovation

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  @hamed on Feb. 16, 2025, 9:28 p.m.

  The Fate of Dealers in the Age of AI Agents

  Dealers, brokers, and middlemen have always played a crucial role in the market, connecting buyers and sellers while earning hefty commissions for their expertise. Whether it's real estate agents, car dealers, or business intermediaries, their knowledge of pricing, negotiations, and market trends has historically been indispensable.

  But what happens when AI agents step in to do their job—faster, cheaper, and without bias?

  The Rise of AI Agents

  AI-driven systems are already transforming industries. Smart algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data, compare offers, predict trends, and even negotiate on behalf of consumers. Imagine a future where:

  • AI-powered real estate assistants instantly compare properties, analyze pricing history, and negotiate directly with sellers. Car buyers use AI to scan listings, verify vehicle history, and secure the best deal without a salesperson in sight.

  • AI-driven procurement systems replace human brokers in business-to-business transactions, ensuring companies always get the best deals.

  • As these technologies advance, the need for human intermediaries diminishes.

  What Happens to Traditional Dealers?

  Some might adapt, while others will struggle to stay relevant. Here’s what the future could look like:

  1. Survival Through Specialization – Some dealers will pivot to niche markets where personal relationships still matter, such as luxury goods or high-value investments.
  2. AI-Assisted Dealers – Instead of competing with AI, savvy dealers will integrate AI tools into their workflow, offering a mix of personal expertise and data-driven recommendations.
  3. Job Displacement and Industry Shifts – Many traditional dealers may find themselves replaced by AI, forcing them to reskill or move into adjacent roles, such as customer experience or consulting.

  A Win for Consumers?

  For buyers and sellers, AI-driven transactions could mean: ✅ Lower costs (no middleman fees) ✅ More transparency (no hidden commissions) ✅ Faster, smarter decisions But it also raises questions: Will AI be fair and unbiased? Who controls these AI systems? And will human expertise still hold value in an increasingly automated world? One thing is certain—change is coming. Whether that’s good or bad depends on where you stand. What do you think? Will dealers survive, or are AI agents the inevitable future? 🚀

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  @hamed on Feb. 14, 2025, 6:59 a.m.

  Software development and maintenance have long been significant investments for organizations, often consuming substantial portions of IT budgets. The high costs are attributed to several factors, including the need for continuous updates, the complexity of systems, and the resources required for debugging and testing. However, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize this landscape, offering opportunities to reduce expenses and unlock new possibilities for the future.

  Factors Contributing to High Software Development and Maintenance Costs

  1. Continuous Evolution: Software must adapt to changing user requirements and evolving hardware and software environments. This necessitates regular updates and modifications to ensure compatibility and functionality.
  2. Resource-Intensive Processes: Development involves skilled professionals who command high salaries. Additionally, the tools and technologies used in development are often expensive, contributing to overall costs.
  3. Complexity and Integration: Modern software systems are intricate, requiring integration with various platforms and services. Ensuring seamless operation across these systems adds to the development and maintenance burden.
  4. Bug Fixes and Testing: Identifying and resolving defects is a time-consuming process. Rigorous testing is essential to maintain software quality, further escalating costs.

  AI's Role in Transforming Software Development

  Artificial intelligence is set to mitigate many of these challenges by introducing efficiencies at various stages of the software development lifecycle: 1. Automated Code Generation: AI-powered tools can generate code snippets or even entire modules based on predefined parameters, reducing the manual effort required from developers. This accelerates development timelines and lowers labor costs. 2. Intelligent Debugging: AI can assist in identifying bugs by analyzing code patterns and predicting potential failure points, thereby streamlining the debugging process and reducing the time spent on error resolution. 3. Enhanced Testing Efficiency: AI-driven testing tools can automatically create and execute test cases, ensuring comprehensive coverage and faster identification of issues. This leads to more reliable software and decreases the resources allocated to manual testing. 4. Maintenance Predictions: By analyzing historical data and usage patterns, AI can predict when maintenance is required, allowing for proactive interventions that prevent costly downtimes and extend the software's lifecycle.

  New Horizons Opened by Reduced Development Costs

  The integration of AI into software development not only reduces costs but also paves the way for innovative opportunities: 1. Increased Accessibility: Lower development costs make it feasible for startups and small businesses to develop custom software solutions, fostering innovation and competition. 2. Rapid Prototyping: With AI expediting the development process, companies can quickly create prototypes to test new ideas, leading to faster iterations and time-to-market for new products. 3. Focus on Creativity and Strategy: As AI handles routine coding tasks, developers can concentrate on creative problem-solving and strategic planning, enhancing the overall quality and functionality of software products. 4. Scalability: Reduced costs and increased efficiency allow organizations to scale their software solutions more effectively, meeting growing user demands without proportional increases in expenditure.

  In conclusion, while software development and maintenance have traditionally been costly endeavors, the emergence of AI offers a transformative approach to reducing these expenses. By automating routine tasks, enhancing debugging and testing processes, and enabling predictive maintenance, AI not only cuts costs but also opens new avenues for innovation and growth in the software industry.

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  @hamed on Feb. 12, 2025, 4:44 p.m.

  Playing audio files on the Linux command line

  You can play audio files on the Linux command line using the play command from sox.

  To install sox, open a terminal and type:

  sudo apt install sox

  To play MP3 files, you need to install the libsox-fmt-mp3 package as well:

  sudo apt install libsox-fmt-mp3

  Once you have installed the necessary packages, you can play any audio file by typing play followed by the name of the file. For example, to play the file track.mp3, you would type:

  play track.mp3

  You can also use the play command to play audio files from other sources, such as URLs or audio devices. For more information, see the play man page.

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  @hamed on Feb. 9, 2025, 8:20 p.m.

  The Illusion of Job Security in the Age of AI

  The more certain someone is that their job is safe from AI, the more vulnerable they actually are.

  Throughout history, industries have been disrupted by new technology, and those who assumed they were untouchable often found themselves struggling to adapt. AI is no different—it’s advancing rapidly, not just in repetitive tasks but in creative, analytical, and even decision-making roles.

  The real danger isn’t AI itself but the mindset that refuses to acknowledge its impact. The moment someone believes their job is irreplaceable, they stop evolving. They stop learning. And that’s when AI—or someone who has adapted to work alongside it—takes over. The key to survival isn’t resistance; it’s adaptability. The safest job is the one where you're constantly learning, evolving, and finding ways to integrate AI into your workflow, rather than ignoring it.

  So, is your job really safe? Or are you just not paying attention?

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  @hamed on Feb. 9, 2025, 2:58 p.m.

  A Small Win: My Blog Post Appeared in Google Discover!

  Today, I had a pleasant surprise—one of my blog posts showed up in Google Discover for the first time and even got some clicks! It might not seem like a big deal, but for me, it's a milestone worth celebrating.

  As a blogger, I put a lot of effort into writing, researching, and optimizing my content. Seeing it get organic traffic is always rewarding, but showing up in Google Discover feels different. It means my content was considered relevant enough to be recommended directly to users, rather than just being found through search queries.

  This small achievement motivates me to keep writing and experimenting with content strategies. If anything, it’s proof that consistency and quality do pay off.

  Excited for what’s next! Have you ever had a similar moment with your website or blog?

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  @hamed on Feb. 9, 2025, 12:04 p.m.

  The Disappearance of Prestigious Job Titles

  Around 70 years ago, "computer" was a prestigious job title. It referred to highly skilled individuals—often mathematicians—who performed complex calculations manually or with the aid of early mechanical devices. They played a crucial role in scientific research, engineering, and even space exploration. But today, "computer" is no longer a job title; it's a device. The work that once required human effort is now automated, performed millions of times faster by machines that fit in our pockets.

  This transformation isn’t unique to human computers. Throughout history, countless prestigious professions have disappeared or evolved beyond recognition. Once, telephone operators connected calls manually. Typists were essential in every office. Even professions like cartographers, once highly specialized, are now being replaced by GPS and AI-generated maps.

  The same fate awaits many of today’s esteemed job titles. Artificial intelligence, automation, and software advancements are encroaching on fields once thought untouchable. Lawyers, doctors, writers, and even programmers may see their roles dramatically altered or replaced. The prestige of a title is fleeting when technology advances.

  The lesson? Adaptation is key. The world changes, and those who embrace new skills, learn to work with technology, and redefine their roles will continue to thrive—just as former human computers became programmers, engineers, and data scientists.

  What prestigious job of today do you think will become obsolete tomorrow?

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  @hamed on Feb. 8, 2025, 1:55 p.m.

  Expanding Your Capabilities with AI

  Technology has always been a force multiplier, but with AI, we’re now entering a new era of productivity. Today, you don’t need to be an expert in every field to take on big projects. You can focus on what you do best and let AI assist with the rest.

  For someone like me, juggling software development, system administration, and content creation, AI has become an invaluable tool. It helps refine ideas, automate tasks, and even generate insights that would otherwise take hours of research. Whether it’s coding, writing, designing, or analyzing data, AI can act as a skilled collaborator, filling in the gaps and amplifying creativity.

  This shift is changing the way we approach work. Instead of limiting ourselves to what we know, we can now expand into new areas with confidence. A writer can explore coding, a developer can experiment with design, and a researcher can generate content effortlessly. The boundaries between disciplines are fading, making it possible to build bigger, more ambitious projects.

  The key is to embrace AI as a tool, not a replacement. It enhances human intelligence rather than diminishing it. The real magic happens when we combine our skills with AI’s capabilities, pushing past traditional limits and unlocking new potential.

  I’m already seeing this play out in my own projects, and I’m excited to see where it leads. How do you use AI in your work?

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  @hamed on Feb. 8, 2025, 12:45 p.m.

  Leaving Google: My Journey to Alternative Services

  For years, Google has been deeply embedded in my digital life—Gmail for emails, Google Search for information, Drive for storage, and YouTube for entertainment. However, I've decided to step away from the Google ecosystem completely. This decision isn't just about privacy; it's about control, independence, and a desire to support open-source and privacy-respecting alternatives.

  Why Leave Google?

  While Google provides excellent services, its deep data collection practices, increasing restrictions on account usage, and monopolization of the web have made me reconsider my reliance on it. I want to regain control over my data and move towards services that align with my values.

  The Alternatives I’m Using

  After thorough research and testing, I’ve replaced Google services with the following alternatives:

  • Gmail → ProtonMail / Tutanota / Self-hosted email
    I switched to a privacy-focused email provider. ProtonMail and Tutanota offer strong encryption, and for even more control, I host my own mail server.

  • Google Search → DuckDuckGo / Brave Search / Searx
    I now use DuckDuckGo for quick searches and Searx when I need more diversity in results. Brave Search is also a solid independent option.

  • Google Drive → Nextcloud / Syncthing
    Nextcloud is my personal cloud solution, letting me store and sync files without relying on a third party. For device-to-device syncing, Syncthing works perfectly.

  • Google Docs → LibreOffice / OnlyOffice / CryptPad
    LibreOffice and OnlyOffice handle my documents, and CryptPad is great for real-time collaboration with privacy in mind.

  • Google Calendar → Nextcloud Calendar / Etar
    I’ve migrated my events to Nextcloud Calendar, and on mobile, Etar is my go-to calendar app.

  • Google Maps → Organic Maps / OpenStreetMap
    Organic Maps, based on OpenStreetMap, provides excellent offline navigation while respecting privacy.

  • Google Photos → Immich / PhotoPrism / Local Storage
    I’ve set up Immich for auto-uploading and organizing my photos locally, and PhotoPrism helps with AI-powered search features.

  • YouTube → Invidious / NewPipe / PeerTube
    I still enjoy video content but access YouTube through privacy-friendly frontends like Invidious or NewPipe. I also explore PeerTube for decentralized alternatives.

  • Android (Google Play) → F-Droid / Aurora Store
    Instead of relying on Google Play, I get my apps from F-Droid, which offers open-source software, and Aurora Store, which provides anonymous access to Play Store apps.

  • Google Chrome → Firefox / Brave
    I’ve fully switched to Firefox with privacy tweaks and occasionally use Brave for its built-in ad-blocking and privacy features.

  • Google Analytics → Plausible / Matomo
    For web analytics, I now use self-hosted Matomo and Plausible, both of which respect user privacy.

  Final Thoughts

  Leaving Google completely is challenging, but it's also liberating. While some transitions take time, the benefits of privacy, control, and supporting open-source projects outweigh the initial inconvenience.

  If you're considering a similar move, take it step by step. Every service you replace with an alternative is a step towards digital independence.

  Are you also reducing your reliance on Google? Let’s discuss your favorite alternatives!

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