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Pepe Fest: Where Art, Blockchain, and Community Converge

Sydney recently hosted the unforgettable Pepe Fest on June 9th, 2023, celebrating the phenomenal rise of the Pepe meme and art culture. This groundbreaking event united a diverse community passionate about art, blockchain technology, and creating a web3 community. Attendees enjoyed captivating art projections, trendy merchandise, and invaluable networking opportunities. Pepe represents love, good vibes, and freedom, captivating millions worldwide. The festival's namesake token symbolizes decentralized finance and artistic expression, advocating for financial freedom for all. With incredible artwork by @PepenardoStudio and @Alessione_vola, and music vibes by @IamAITheArtist and more, Pepe Fest was an unparalleled experience.

Starting with the city of L.A, the festival in a matter of few weeks rised the number to NYC, Miami, Washington DC, Beijin, London, Toronto, Shanghai and Bucaramanga in Colombia. From its humble beginnings in L.A., the festival rapidly expanded its reach to major cities across the globe. Within a matter of weeks, the event spread its vibrant energy to NYC, Miami, Washington DC, Beijing, London, Toronto, Shanghai, and even the charming city of Bucaramanga in Colombia.

The festival's undeniable popularity and swift growth have solidified its status as a truly international celebration of art and culture. With each new location, the festival promises to bring its unique blend of creativity, community, and inspiration to diverse audiences worldwide.

Future Art Takes Vivid Sydney to New Dimensions

In a spectacular fusion of digital creativity and immersive experiences, Future Art stormed Vivid Sydney, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of cutting-edge art and technology. The event brought together the world's brightest digital and NFT crypto artists for a mind-bending celebration that defied conventional artistic boundaries.

Attendees were treated to an array of captivating experiences, including awe-inspiring VR adventures, larger-than-life NFT displays, and breathtaking projections that illuminated Sydney's skyline. The party pulsated with the energy of live music from renowned DJs, providing the perfect backdrop for art enthusiasts and dancefloor aficionados alike.

From motion art to AI, generative art to animation, and 3D masterpieces to virtual reality, Future Art showcased the boundless possibilities of digital creativity. Acclaimed artists from across the globe, including Neurocolor, Rebecca Rose, Jon Noorlander, Panter Xhita, and Sarah Main, shared their groundbreaking works alongside local talents like Joe Pease, Sophie Tea, GTSewell and Stuart Sale.

As part of Vivid Ideas' Immersive Events series, Future Art took the concept of contemporary art to unexplored frontiers, captivating both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the NFT and crypto-art scene. With each sensory-rich encounter, attendees were transported into a world where art and technology seamlessly merged, leaving an indelible mark on their artistic consciousness.

Future Art at Vivid Sydney proved once again that the future of art is rapidly evolving, with digital innovation at its core. This extraordinary event pushed boundaries, ignited imaginations, and left its mark as an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sydney's creative landscape.

Louis Vuitton and the Legacy of Tomorrow: Introducing a Revolutionary Trunk

Summary: Louis Vuitton, the world-renowned luxury brand, is making waves by blending its rich heritage with a forward-thinking vision. The company recently unveiled a first-of-its-kind trunk, which seems to be an embodiment of embracing its legacy through innovative designs. The trunk signifies Louis Vuitton's commitment to maintaining its historical significance while also evolving to meet the demands of the future.

Snoop Dogg Introduces Evolving 'Passport Series' NFT Tour Collectible

Snoop Dogg has recently launched the 'Passport Series,' a pioneering NFT tour collectible that grants fans exclusive access to updates and content from his life on tour. Available for approximately $45 or 0.025 ETH, the Passport NFT offers behind-the-scenes videos, images, and a curated collection of works from select NFT artists known as 'Snoop Selects'. Passport holders will also have access to future Snoop Dogg drops, playlists, merchandise, and event tickets. The Passport Series was developed in collaboration with Transient Labs, an NFT development studio.

Warner Bros Unveils Superman Web3 Movie Experience in NFT Bundles

Summary: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has launched a limited-time NFT-based movie experience called the Superman Web3 Movie Experience. This multimedia NFT includes the 1978 film “Superman: The Movie” in 4K Ultra HD format, along with image galleries and artist renderings. There are two editions available: the Standard Edition for $30 and the Premium Edition for $100. The Standard Edition includes an interactive location-based navigation menu, the theatrical version of the movie, and an image gallery. The Premium Edition offers more content, including three different variations featuring illustrations of Christopher Reeve’s Superman by DC artists. Purchasers will also receive a free voucher code for a DC3 Super Power Pack from the DC NFT Marketplace. The Superman Web3 Movie Experience aims to engage fans and monetize the initial sales through Warner Bros.’s online marketplace powered by Eluvio's content blockchain technology.

Adidas Originals and FEWOCiOUS Collaborate for Artful Web3 Innovation"

Summary: Continuing its exploration of art, culture, creativity, and Web3, adidas Originals partners with trailblazing artist FEWOCiOUS. The collaboration combines adidas' commitment to innovation with FEWOCiOUS' artistic flair, resulting in a bold range of physical and digital product drops. The partnership introduces a limited edition Trefoil Flower Mint Pass, launching on June 22nd, granting NFT holders the chance to redeem an artist-designed Campus 00's sneaker. This groundbreaking endeavor marks adidas' first token-gated, NFC-tagged sneaker tied to an NFT, bridging the gap between digital and physical realms in fashion.

Nike's RTFKT Joins CAA for Film and TV Projects

Nike-owned digital design studio RTFKT, known for its virtual and digital sneakers, has partnered with CAA to explore film and TV opportunities based on its intellectual property. RTFKT, founded in 2020 during the NFT frenzy, gained recognition for projects like CloneX, an NFT collection with Takashi Murakami generating over $500 million. With CAA, RTFKT plans to create educational programming for crypto- and 3D-focused artists and delve into new mediums for interactive storytelling. CAA President Jim Burtson expressed excitement about working with RTFKT's creative vision.

Noel Gallagher's Ingenious Digital Strategy in Chart Battle Against Foo Fighters

Summary: In an innovative move to compete with Foo Fighters, Noel Gallagher utilized a ‘limited digital pressing’ strategy for his single "We're On Our Way Now". This strategy involved selling a limited number of downloads at a fixed price, similar to the way vinyl pressings are sold. The initiative aimed to capitalize on the fervor of Gallagher's fanbase and generate buzz in the race for the top spot on the charts.

Twitch Co-Founder Paves the Way for NFT Gaming Development

Summary: Fractal, a venture by Twitch Co-Founder, has recently launched a set of tools aimed at assisting developers in building games that incorporate Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). These tools signify a step forward in the integration of blockchain technology into the gaming industry, opening up new avenues for in-game assets and ownership.

APPLE ID proof of age

In a significant development that received little attention in yesterday's press releases, Apple ID is set to transform into an accepted form of age and identity verification for businesses.

Beginning this autumn, iPhone users will have the convenience of presenting their ID through Apple Wallet, eliminating the need for any extra hardware. This update will enable businesses to seamlessly verify a customer's age during in-person transactions, such as alcohol purchases, and confirm their identity at checkout for services like car rentals and beyond. This progression in digital identity demonstrates that advancements are being made irrespective of web3 or blockchain technologies. It is highly likely that Google will soon follow soon by introducing an Android version of this feature in the near future.

LENS Protocol: A Beacon of Privacy in an Age of Surveillance

Summary: LENS Protocol is a groundbreaking blockchain-based protocol that aims to protect user privacy and data. It leverages zero-knowledge proofs to enable users to share their data without revealing sensitive information. In an age where data privacy is increasingly under threat, LENS Protocol represents an important step toward empowering individuals to take control of their own data.

Polygon 2.0: The Future of Layer-2 Networks on Ethereum

Polygon, an Ethereum sidechain, has unveiled its ambitious project, Polygon 2.0, which aims to connect independent layer-2 networks built on Ethereum through a novel cross-chain coordination protocol. Powered by zero-knowledge (ZK) technology, Polygon 2.0 seeks to make cross-chain interactions seamless and secure. Additionally, it aims to solve scalability issues and boost capacity by creating more chains, similar to blockchains like Cosmos and Polkadot. The platform is building on its software stack, SuperNets, to ensure scalability and customization without compromising decentralization or security. Moreover, Polygon has already launched a zero-knowledge roll-up solution, Polygon zkEVM, which is compatible with Ethereum's virtual machine (EVM). This solution allows developers to deploy Ethereum applications using existing developer tools and enables faster, more cost-effective transactions while maintaining security through anchoring on Ethereum

Uniswap v4: Revolutionizing Liquidity Pools in Decentralized Exchanges

Uniswap, the leading decentralized exchange (DEX), has unveiled Uniswap v4, introducing groundbreaking improvements to liquidity pools. This upgrade allows for customizable pools with dynamic swap fees that adjust to market conditions. By consolidating smart contracts into a single entity, Uniswap drastically reduces pool creation costs by 99%. While awaiting the finalized and audited code, the crypto community eagerly anticipates the release of Uniswap v4. This update is set to transform decentralized exchanges, offering users enhanced control, cost efficiency, and an unparalleled trading experience. Stay tuned for the latest developments in this exciting crypto innovation.

Converging Frontiers: The Crypto-AI Nexus

Summary: The worlds of cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly intertwined, evolving in parallel and pushing technological boundaries. Among the key intersections is the “AirBnB for Graphics Cards” model, which has emerged to meet the surging demand for high-performance graphics cards essential for AI workloads. Token-incentivized reinforcement learning from human feedback (RLHF) is another critical intersection, where tokens can be used to improve RLHF in specific verticals. Additionally, Zero-Knowledge Machine Learning (zkML) is seen as a crucial development, enabling blockchains to programmatically move value based on real-world data in a trust-minimized way. This convergence points to a future where the combined force of AI and crypto will redefine the landscape of innovation and technology.

Cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI) are two rapidly evolving fields that are intersecting in various ways. Here are some of the key intersections:

1. AirBnB for Graphics Cards Model: The rise of AI and machine learning workloads has led to a significant increase in demand for high-performance graphics cards like the Nvidia A100. A new market has emerged that allows individuals and organizations to rent out their unused GPU resources to meet the demands of AI researchers and developers. However, there are technical challenges such as matching the right GPU resources with the appropriate AI workloads, adjusting training processes to accommodate higher latency in decentralized environments, and verifying the execution of code on untrusted computers. These challenges can be addressed through further specialization of graphics cards, developing new training processes, and implementing reputation systems coupled with crypto-economic staking.

2. Token-Incentivized Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF): Token incentivization can be used to improve reinforcement learning models that are trained using human feedback. Token incentivization is particularly useful for domain-specific models that require input from highly-trained workers. For instance, model developers can offer tokens that vest over time to incentivize long-term engagement from experts in fields like medicine, law, engineering, architecture, finance, scientific research, education, and environmental science. This can lead to the development of more sophisticated and specialized AI models that can be used in various industries. One practical example is Hivemapper, which rewards map editors with tokens for editing and curating mapping data.

3. Zero-Knowledge Machine Learning (zkML): Blockchain networks are isolated from the real world and therefore have no knowledge of events occurring outside of the chain. Oracles are used to relay real-world data to the chain, but sometimes this data needs to be computed before being sent to the chain. This is where zkML comes in. It allows for computation of data off-chain in a trust-minimized way before it is sent to the blockchain. For example, a yield aggregator might need to compute the current yields and risks of all available pools before moving deposits between them. This computation is suited for machine learning but is too expensive to perform on-chain. zkML can perform this computation off-chain and then send the results to the blockchain in a trust-minimized way. Modulus Labs is one of the teams currently building in this area【8†source】.

4. Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and AI Governance: DAOs are organizations that are run and managed by smart contracts on a blockchain. They can use AI to automate decision-making and governance processes. AI algorithms can be used to analyze data and make decisions on behalf of the DAO. On the other hand, blockchain technology can be used to create transparent and immutable records of AI decisions and actions. This is particularly useful in situations where it is important to be able to audit and verify AI actions.

5. Data Marketplaces and Privacy: Blockchain technology can be utilized to create decentralized data marketplaces. AI algorithms need large datasets for training, and through blockchain-based data market places, individuals can control and monetize their data by selling it directly to AI developers. This approach ensures data privacy since data owners have control over who accesses their data and for what purpose. Additionally, blockchain ensures transparency and immutability of transactions.

   1. Smart Contracts and AI-Driven Automation: Smart contracts are self-executing contracts where the terms are written into code. AI can be integrated into smart contracts to enable more complex, data-driven automated actions. For instance, an insurance company might use an AI algorithm to assess risk and calculate insurance premiums automatically through a smart contract. This can streamline the process and make it more efficient and fair.

   2. Crypto Trading Bots: AI-driven trading bots are widely used in the cryptocurrency markets. These bots can analyze market data, execute trades, and even employ complex strategies to generate profits. By using machine learning algorithms, these bots can adapt and improve their strategies over time.

   3. Identity Verification and Fraud Detection: Blockchain can be used for secure and immutable identity verification. When combined with AI algorithms that can analyze patterns and detect fraudulent activity, this becomes a powerful tool for enhancing security in various applications, including financial services and online platforms.

   4. Content and Media Validation: AI algorithms can be used to detect fake content, such as deepfakes or manipulated media. When verified content is then recorded on a blockchain, it ensures that there is an immutable record of the original content. This can be used to combat misinformation and ensure content integrity.

   5. AI Model Training and Monetization: AI developers can use blockchain to monetize their AI models. For instance, an AI developer could place a trained model on a blockchain, and then users could pay a small fee in cryptocurrency to access or query the model. This allows for a decentralized AI marketplace where models can be shared and monetized efficiently.

   In summary, the convergence of cryptocurrency and AI technologies is leading to innovative solutions and models across various industries. These intersections are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of automation, data privacy, decentralization, and monetization. It is an exciting time as both fields continue to evolve and find new ways to complement and enhance each other.

Apple Unveils Vision Pro: A Revolutionary AR/VR Headset

At WWDC 2023, Apple announced the Vision Pro, its long-awaited AR (Augmented Reality) headset. Below are some key details about the Apple Vision Pro:

• AR and VR: The Vision Pro is designed to support both AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) applications.

• Design and Input: It has an innovative design that doesn't require a dedicated controller. Instead, it uses multiple external and internal sensors and cameras to rely entirely on voice inputs and hand/eye gestures.

• EyeSight Feature: Apple has introduced a new feature called EyeSight that uses a seamless curved display on the headset's exterior so that people can see a user's reactions while someone is wearing the device.

• Material and Comfort: The Vision Pro is designed to be light and is machined from a custom aluminum alloy. It has a digital crown to adjust the level of immersion. The headband comes in three sizes and is soft, comfortable, and easy to adjust.

• Audio: The headset has dual-driver audio pods on either side that provide spatial audio.

• Battery: To reduce weight, the Vision Pro features an external battery connected to the headset with a wire.

• Display and Optics: It uses a proprietary three-element lens with dual 4K micro-OLED displays delivering a total of 23 million pixels.

• Sensors and Cameras: The device has IR cameras, LED illuminators, and both LiDAR and traditional camera sensors on the exterior.

• Processing and OS: It is powered by Apple's visionOS, and uses Apple's new R1 chip and an M2 processor for responsive, lag-free performance.

• Apps and Persona Feature: Users can use familiar apps like Safari and interact with objects or people in the real world. Apple is creating a special version of the App Store specifically for Vision Pro. The headset uses a digital representation of the user called a Persona for video calls.

• 3D Camera: The Vision Pro includes Apple's first 3D camera, which can be used to capture moments with added depth information.

• Media and Gaming: The headset has a dedicated mode for watching videos on a virtual screen that measures up to 100 feet wide. It supports more than 100 different titles from the Apple Arcade library and can be paired with a PS5 or Xbox controller for gaming.

• Partnership with Disney: Apple announced a partnership with Disney for new experiences including enhanced ways to watch shows on Disney+ and AR demos for basketball games. The Disney+ app will be available on the Vision Pro at launch.

• Security: The Vision Pro uses a new Optic ID authentication system that uses a person's iris for unlocking and signing onto the device. The Optic ID data is fully encrypted and only stored locally.

• Price and Availability: The Vision Pro is priced at $3,499 and is slated to go on sale sometime early next year​.

QOD

“Whoever is happy will make others happy too.” --Anne Frank

Disclaimer: The information provided in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or other professional advice. Any reliance you place on the information provided is strictly at your own risk. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or judgment and should not be relied upon for that purpose. NFTSYD makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the newsletter or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the newsletter for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will NFTSYD and its contributors be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this newsletter.