Friday links for August 14th 2026
The “not AI again” issue.
1. On AI Coding and Its Discontents
Related to my Theory Of Constraints email earlier in the week: faster code generation is just pushing problems elsewhere, and developers are starting to notice and despair. It’s progress… if you squint. (See also)
Americans… supersizing everything, including emissions. Next day delivery on heatwaves – coming soon.
3. Largest AI Supply Chain Breach of 2026
Thousands of companies using a generative AI tool in their CI/CD pipeline (a “conveyor belt” that automatically tests and ships software) without proper security have had their credentials and other secrets compromised. Some big names in there, including europa.eu, who’s data protection rules don’t apply to themselves, apparently.
4. Error by AI scribe during medical appointment leaves patient devastated
This is the problem with automated transcription. It will make mistakes, practically by design. It’s all very nice saying people should check the work, but we all know that doesn’t happen. Checking the work is up there with reading terms and conditions or paying attention to a car alarm.
The wonders we live with every day, without even noticing. Probably because we’re too busy ordering chatbots around.
On rotation
This week’s soundtrack is Musica Per Progetti Incompiuti by Gianclaudio Hashem Moniri.
The horrors persist, but so do I,
Colin