#excessive use of translate apps

[mostlysignssomeportents]

“Humans in the loop” must detect the hardest-to-spot errors, at superhuman speed

I'm touring my new, nationally bestselling novel The Bezzle! Catch me SATURDAY (Apr 27) in MARIN COUNTY, then Winnipeg (May 2), Calgary (May 3), Vancouver (May 4), and beyond!

If AI has a future (a big if), it will have to be economically viable. An industry can't spend 1,700% more on Nvidia chips than it earns indefinitely – not even with Nvidia being a principle investor in its largest customers:

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=39883571

A company that pays 0.36-1 cents/query for electricity and (scarce, fresh) water can't indefinitely give those queries away by the millions to people who are expected to revise those queries dozens of times before eliciting the perfect botshit rendition of "instructions for removing a grilled cheese sandwich from a VCR in the style of the King James Bible":

https://www.semianalysis.com/p/the-inference-cost-of-search-disruption

Eventually, the industry will have to uncover some mix of applications that will cover its operating costs, if only to keep the lights on in the face of investor disillusionment (this isn't optional – investor disillusionment is an inevitable part of every bubble).

Now, there are lots of low-stakes applications for AI that can run just fine on the current AI technology, despite its many – and seemingly inescapable - errors ("hallucinations"). People who use AI to generate illustrations of their D&D characters engaged in epic adventures from their previous gaming session don't care about the odd extra finger. If the chatbot powering a tourist's automatic text-to-translation-to-speech phone tool gets a few words wrong, it's still much better than the alternative of speaking slowly and loudly in your own language while making emphatic hand-gestures.

There are lots of these applications, and many of the people who benefit from them would doubtless pay something for them. The problem – from an AI company's perspective – is that these aren't just low-stakes, they're also low-value. Their users would pay something for them, but not very much.

For AI to keep its servers on through the coming trough of disillusionment, it will have to locate high-value applications, too. Economically speaking, the function of low-value applications is to soak up excess capacity and produce value at the margins after the high-value applications pay the bills. Low-value applications are a side-dish, like the coach seats on an airplane whose total operating expenses are paid by the business class passengers up front. Without the principle income from high-value applications, the servers shut down, and the low-value applications disappear:

https://locusmag.com/2023/12/commentary-cory-doctorow-what-kind-of-bubble-is-ai/

Now, there are lots of high-value applications the AI industry has identified for its products. Broadly speaking, these high-value applications share the same problem: they are all high-stakes, which means they are very sensitive to errors. Mistakes made by apps that produce code, drive cars, or identify cancerous masses on chest X-rays are extremely consequential.

Some businesses may be insensitive to those consequences. Air Canada replaced its human customer service staff with chatbots that just lied to passengers, stealing hundreds of dollars from them in the process. But the process for getting your money back after you are defrauded by Air Canada's chatbot is so onerous that only one passenger has bothered to go through it, spending ten weeks exhausting all of Air Canada's internal review mechanisms before fighting his case for weeks more at the regulator:

https://bc.ctvnews.ca/air-canada-s-chatbot-gave-a-b-c-man-the-wrong-information-now-the-airline-has-to-pay-for-the-mistake-1.6769454

There's never just one ant. If this guy was defrauded by an AC chatbot, so were hundreds or thousands of other fliers. Air Canada doesn't have to pay them back. Air Canada is tacitly asserting that, as the country's flagship carrier and near-monopolist, it is too big to fail and too big to jail, which means it's too big to care.

Air Canada shows that for some business customers, AI doesn't need to be able to do a worker's job in order to be a smart purchase: a chatbot can replace a worker, fail to their worker's job, and still save the company money on balance.

I can't predict whether the world's sociopathic monopolists are numerous and powerful enough to keep the lights on for AI companies through leases for automation systems that let them commit consequence-free free fraud by replacing workers with chatbots that serve as moral crumple-zones for furious customers:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563219304029

But even stipulating that this is sufficient, it's intrinsically unstable. Anything that can't go on forever eventually stops, and the mass replacement of humans with high-speed fraud software seems likely to stoke the already blazing furnace of modern antitrust:

https://www.eff.org/de/deeplinks/2021/08/party-its-1979-og-antitrust-back-baby

Of course, the AI companies have their own answer to this conundrum. A high-stakes/high-value customer can still fire workers and replace them with AI – they just need to hire fewer, cheaper workers to supervise the AI and monitor it for "hallucinations." This is called the "human in the loop" solution.

The human in the loop story has some glaring holes. From a worker's perspective, serving as the human in the loop in a scheme that cuts wage bills through AI is a nightmare – the worst possible kind of automation.

Let's pause for a little detour through automation theory here. Automation can augment a worker. We can call this a "centaur" – the worker offloads a repetitive task, or one that requires a high degree of vigilance, or (worst of all) both. They're a human head on a robot body (hence "centaur"). Think of the sensor/vision system in your car that beeps if you activate your turn-signal while a car is in your blind spot. You're in charge, but you're getting a second opinion from the robot.

Likewise, consider an AI tool that double-checks a radiologist's diagnosis of your chest X-ray and suggests a second look when its assessment doesn't match the radiologist's. Again, the human is in charge, but the robot is serving as a backstop and helpmeet, using its inexhaustible robotic vigilance to augment human skill.

That's centaurs. They're the good automation. Then there's the bad automation: the reverse-centaur, when the human is used to augment the robot.

Amazon warehouse pickers stand in one place while robotic shelving units trundle up to them at speed; then, the haptic bracelets shackled around their wrists buzz at them, directing them pick up specific items and move them to a basket, while a third automation system penalizes them for taking toilet breaks or even just walking around and shaking out their limbs to avoid a repetitive strain injury. This is a robotic head using a human body – and destroying it in the process.

An AI-assisted radiologist processes fewer chest X-rays every day, costing their employer more, on top of the cost of the AI. That's not what AI companies are selling. They're offering hospitals the power to create reverse centaurs: radiologist-assisted AIs. That's what "human in the loop" means.

This is a problem for workers, but it's also a problem for their bosses (assuming those bosses actually care about correcting AI hallucinations, rather than providing a figleaf that lets them commit fraud or kill people and shift the blame to an unpunishable AI).

Humans are good at a lot of things, but they're not good at eternal, perfect vigilance. Writing code is hard, but performing code-review (where you check someone else's code for errors) is much harder – and it gets even harder if the code you're reviewing is usually fine, because this requires that you maintain your vigilance for something that only occurs at rare and unpredictable intervals:

https://twitter.com/qntm/status/1773779967521780169

But for a coding shop to make the cost of an AI pencil out, the human in the loop needs to be able to process a lot of AI-generated code. Replacing a human with an AI doesn't produce any savings if you need to hire two more humans to take turns doing close reads of the AI's code.

This is the fatal flaw in robo-taxi schemes. The "human in the loop" who is supposed to keep the murderbot from smashing into other cars, steering into oncoming traffic, or running down pedestrians isn't a driver, they're a driving instructor. This is a much harder job than being a driver, even when the student driver you're monitoring is a human, making human mistakes at human speed. It's even harder when the student driver is a robot, making errors at computer speed:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/01/human-in-the-loop/#monkey-in-the-middle

This is why the doomed robo-taxi company Cruise had to deploy 1.5 skilled, high-paid human monitors to oversee each of its murderbots, while traditional taxis operate at a fraction of the cost with a single, precaratized, low-paid human driver:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/11/robots-stole-my-jerb/#computer-says-no

The vigilance problem is pretty fatal for the human-in-the-loop gambit, but there's another problem that is, if anything, even more fatal: the kinds of errors that AIs make.

Foundationally, AI is applied statistics. An AI company trains its AI by feeding it a lot of data about the real world. The program processes this data, looking for statistical correlations in that data, and makes a model of the world based on those correlations. A chatbot is a next-word-guessing program, and an AI "art" generator is a next-pixel-guessing program. They're drawing on billions of documents to find the most statistically likely way of finishing a sentence or a line of pixels in a bitmap:

https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3442188.3445922

This means that AI doesn't just make errors – it makes subtle errors, the kinds of errors that are the hardest for a human in the loop to spot, because they are the most statistically probable ways of being wrong. Sure, we notice the gross errors in AI output, like confidently claiming that a living human is dead:

https://www.tomsguide.com/opinion/according-to-chatgpt-im-dead

But the most common errors that AIs make are the ones we don't notice, because they're perfectly camouflaged as the truth. Think of the recurring AI programming error that inserts a call to a nonexistent library called "huggingface-cli," which is what the library would be called if developers reliably followed naming conventions. But due to a human inconsistency, the real library has a slightly different name. The fact that AIs repeatedly inserted references to the nonexistent library opened up a vulnerability – a security researcher created a (inert) malicious library with that name and tricked numerous companies into compiling it into their code because their human reviewers missed the chatbot's (statistically indistinguishable from the the truth) lie:

https://www.theregister.com/2024/03/28/ai_bots_hallucinate_software_packages/

For a driving instructor or a code reviewer overseeing a human subject, the majority of errors are comparatively easy to spot, because they're the kinds of errors that lead to inconsistent library naming – places where a human behaved erratically or irregularly. But when reality is irregular or erratic, the AI will make errors by presuming that things are statistically normal.

These are the hardest kinds of errors to spot. They couldn't be harder for a human to detect if they were specifically designed to go undetected. The human in the loop isn't just being asked to spot mistakes – they're being actively deceived. The AI isn't merely wrong, it's constructing a subtle "what's wrong with this picture"-style puzzle. Not just one such puzzle, either: millions of them, at speed, which must be solved by the human in the loop, who must remain perfectly vigilant for things that are, by definition, almost totally unnoticeable.

This is a special new torment for reverse centaurs – and a significant problem for AI companies hoping to accumulate and keep enough high-value, high-stakes customers on their books to weather the coming trough of disillusionment.

This is pretty grim, but it gets grimmer. AI companies have argued that they have a third line of business, a way to make money for their customers beyond automation's gifts to their payrolls: they claim that they can perform difficult scientific tasks at superhuman speed, producing billion-dollar insights (new materials, new drugs, new proteins) at unimaginable speed.

However, these claims – credulously amplified by the non-technical press – keep on shattering when they are tested by experts who understand the esoteric domains in which AI is said to have an unbeatable advantage. For example, Google claimed that its Deepmind AI had discovered "millions of new materials," "equivalent to nearly 800 years’ worth of knowledge," constituting "an order-of-magnitude expansion in stable materials known to humanity":

https://deepmind.google/discover/blog/millions-of-new-materials-discovered-with-deep-learning/

It was a hoax. When independent material scientists reviewed representative samples of these "new materials," they concluded that "no new materials have been discovered" and that not one of these materials was "credible, useful and novel":

https://www.404media.co/google-says-it-discovered-millions-of-new-materials-with-ai-human-researchers/

As Brian Merchant writes, AI claims are eerily similar to "smoke and mirrors" – the dazzling reality-distortion field thrown up by 17th century magic lantern technology, which millions of people ascribed wild capabilities to, thanks to the outlandish claims of the technology's promoters:

https://www.bloodinthemachine.com/p/ai-really-is-smoke-and-mirrors

The fact that we have a four-hundred-year-old name for this phenomenon, and yet we're still falling prey to it is frankly a little depressing. And, unlucky for us, it turns out that AI therapybots can't help us with this – rather, they're apt to literally convince us to kill ourselves:

https://www.vice.com/en/article/pkadgm/man-dies-by-suicide-after-talking-with-ai-chatbot-widow-says

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/2024/04/23/maximal-plausibility/#reverse-centaurs

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

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

[gatoraid]

It's been about a year since He Who Drowned the World came out. To celebrate that, and the Radiant Emperor Week, I figured I could finally post this thing that has been sitting in my notes app for ages, abt why I found this book so touching.

In many ways, reading Shelley Parker-Chan’s He Who Drowned the World at age 34 felt very similar as reading Lost Souls by Poppy Z Brite (who is now known as Billy Martin) felt to me at age 17. Formative, life-changing, soul-shattering.

Both books are deeply rooted in genre fiction that can be seen as formulaic or even trashy. Lost Souls is gratuitous vampire erotica and The Radiant Emperor series was inspired by East Asian period dramas and clumsily translated web novels.

Both deal with the ugliest, darkest sides of human emotions. They deal with loneliness and how far we might be willing to go in order to be rid of it, and what happens when we only see other people as commodities for us to use and drain. But they also deal with finding a connection with someone, after spending a lifetime of thinking you were the only one who feels this way, who is this way. They both have characters who go through and commit the most atrocious things, and you can’t help but feel for them.

Most importantly, both books were also written by trans/nonbinary authors, and they’re intrinsically tied to queerness and sex, to the point where I’ve seen comments about the amount/quality of sex scenes being excessive. But the excess, the indulgence in sex and violence and the most base human impulses is exactly what makes these stories so alluring and makes it possible to dive so deep. I don’t want to read something respectable, I want to read something that feels true. Something that feels comforting in all its rawness.

Also, both of these books have this exact same scene:

”Night is the hardest time to be alive. For me, anyway. It lasts so long, and four a.m. knows all my secrets.” –Lost Souls, p. 113

”It seemed fitting that it should happen now, in the cold ebb between third and fourth watches. It was the time of night that babies were born and people died, when the dark seemed endless and the idea of morning a cruel fantasy that not even a child could believe.” –He Who Drowned the World, p. 320

[andydrysdalerogers]

Yours Submissively ~ Consent

Steve Rogers X OFC Isabella Davis

Summary: Five Years after the events of Civil War, Steve Rogers has moved on from avenging and has started his own business, Grant Inc. He has a secret that would turn his world upside down. And he's good at keep that secret. Until he meets the woman with violet eyes that could bring him to his knees. Now his mission is to make her, his. But she is the key that could bring the world into balance... or chaos.

And she has no idea.

Series Warnings: slow burn at the beginning, smut, angst, sexual themes of BDSM, dom/sub dynamics, kidnapping, (and a bunch of others that will come up)

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

I do NOT give permission for my work to be translated or reposted on here or any other site, even if you give me credit. DO NOT REPOST MY FICS. Reblogs, comments, likes, and feedback ALWAYS appreciated

Previous: Excess

Series Masterlist ~ Main Masterlist

Sunlight creeped across the hardwood from the floor to ceiling windows.  The blackout shades weren’t all the way to the floor, but it allowed the room to remain dark.  Belle felt herself wake and turn over.  She realized that action should have dropped her from her twin bed at home.  She opened her eyes and looked at the unfamiliar nightstand in front of her.  She looked at the soft sheets, dark red.  She sat up slowly, taking in the room.  

Wood tone furniture decorated the room but sparce, just a couple of chairs and a small coffee table in addition to the nightstands.  Belle looked down and saw herself in an unfamiliar shirt.  She was scared to move but managed to look over to the other side of the bed.  It was empty but slept in.  She looked back at the nightstand and saw some tablets and some water.  The pill bottle was next to it, so she knew it was safe to take the medicine.   Her head told her she needed to take whatever it was.  She swallowed and then moved her legs off the bed.  

The cold air hit her legs.  She started to panic.  What happened last night?  She heard the door open, and she pulled her legs back under the covers.  Steve walks in, sweat on his brow and his shirt soaked.  “Good morning.”  

“Uh… morning.”  Belle stared at the man, not sure if it was a good morning or not.  “How… ummm… when… ok, sorry.”  

“Breathe Isabella.”  Steve sat on the edge of the bed in front of her.  

Belle closed her eyes and took a deep breath.  “What happened?” 

“Before or after your drunken phone call?” 

Belle dropped her head into her hands.  “After,” she said behind muffled hands.  

Steve gently pulled her hands away from her face.  “I brought you home after you passed out in my arms.”  

“How did you find me?”  

“It’s easy to track a phone, Isabella.  They have an app for that.”  

“Great. Perfect.” Belle looked around.  “We’re in your bedroom?” 

“Yes.”  

“Did you undress me?” 

“Yes.”  

“Did we… did we do anything?” 

“No Isabella.  I’m not that guy.  I won’t do something without your explicit consent.”  

Belle closed her eyes in relief.  She took another steadying breath. “Why am I here?” 

“I didn’t know where you lived.  Lila told me to take care of you.”  

“Where are my clothes?” 

“Bucky brought you some new ones.”  He gestured to the shopping bag she missed on the chair. “The shower is through there if you like.  I’ll use the guest one.” He walked into another door and came out with some clothes. “You are quiet this morning. Not as lively as last night.  Are you planning on behaving today?” 

“Oh god.” She laid back on the pillow. “What did I do?” 

“I only have bits and pieces Isabella.  You called me, you were inebriated, I found you with a guy kissing you, I pulled him off and then you passed out.  You were entertaining.”  

“Well as long as I was entertaining.” Belle covered her face with the pillow, hoping it would suffocate her.  She felt the material pull away from her.  

“Are you ok?” 

“If you are ok with the ground swallowing me whole, then not yet because it hasn’t happened.”  

Steve chuckled.  “Come.  Get refreshed. I’ll take you to breakfast.” He left the room.  

Belle waited a moment before getting up and grabbing the bag. Jeans, a beautiful top and undergarments were in the bag.  Curiously it was all in her size.  She walked through the door indicated to find a gorgeous bathroom that was bigger than her apartment.  She showered quickly, skipping washing her hair. She pulled it up into a bun and got dressed.  She exited back to the room, where Steve was reading the paper.   “Feel better?” 

“More human, thank you. Have you seen my phone?” 

“It’s charging in the living room.”  Steve stood up and offered his hand.  She took it and he led her to a modern living room.  

Belle took in the room.  It wasn’t what she expected from the good captain.  Sleek furniture, hardwood floors, what looked like an easel in the corner.  She felt comfortable in the room.  She spotted her phone and went to reach for it.  Several missed calls from Lila and Scott.  She sighed and just sent a quick message to Lila. 

B: I’m ok.  

L: How was he? 

B: With what? 

L: You didn’t did you? 

B: Of course not.  

L: But you wanted to? 

B: I got to go.  

“Everything ok?” Steve looked at her inquisitively.  

“Yes, just letting Lila know I’m ok.”  Belle tried not to fidget.  “I am hungry.”  

“Let’s go.  There is a diner around the corner.  We can walk.  Here,” he handed her a pair of sunglasses.  

“Thanks.” She placed the glasses on the top of her head, and they walked to the elevator. The thoughts of doubt swirled in her head.  Steve had rescued her from herself apparently but had made no move on her.  She was awkward, she knew that about herself so it seems logical that Steve wouldn’t find her interesting or attractive.  Before she got lost in this man, she blurted out, “Steve?”  He turned to look at her.  “Am I not good enough?” 

Steve was puzzled by the question. “Sorry?” 

“You haven’t kissed me or made a move, yet you brought me here.  Am I just a charity case?” 

Steve pulled the emergency stop again and turned to face Belle. His anger at her presumption was showing.  He got closer to her, and she backed up into the elevator wall.  He placed his hands on either side of her face.  “Isabella if you were a charity case, I would not have brought you to my home or place you in my bed for that matter.”  He lifted his hand to caress her cheek.  “I’ve been dying to taste that mouth but I didn’t want to without your consent.”  

Belle’s breath hitched at the thought of him kissing her.  “You have it, Steve.”  

“I don’t.  Not until you agree to be mine.”  

“Yours?” 

“In every way, Isabella.”  He looked into her violet eyes, seeing the desire in them.  He leaned in and ghosted her lips. “I’ll explain soon baby.”  He pecked her ever so gently.  He pulled away and Belle was sure she needed to restart her heart.  Steve pulled the emergency stop so they could continue down.  Once at the bottom, he took her hand again and led her to the diner.  

They were quiet on the walk, Belle lost in her thoughts.  He guided them to the back of the diner and asked for two coffees.  “What are you thinking Isabella?” 

“I’m so confused right now.  These thoughts, feelings, words are just so confusing.  I know everything about you and yet….” 

“Yet, you don’t know everything.”  Steve watched as she made her coffee, light and sweet and made a note.  

“No apparently, I don’t.” Belle looked at her coffee.  She was scared to look up into the blazing blue orbs she knew was studying her.  

Steve took a sip of his own coffee.  “You know Isabella, you should really care for yourself better.”  

The change in topic stunned Belle.  “How do you mean?” 

“I’m all for having fun but drinking that much is dangerous.”  

“I wasn’t in danger.”  

“And what do you call the boy who assaulted you?” 

“Scott?  Scott just pushed too far.  I will need to speak to him.  Now that he and I are sober.”  She looked out the window.  That was going to be an uncomfortable conversation.  

“Is he something more to you?”  Steve’s jaw hardens at the thought.  

“No,” Belle finally looked at Steve, taking in his jealous expression.  “He is a friend. I didn’t realize he wanted more.”  

“Hmm,” Steve said taking another sip. “But last night can’t happen again.”  

“What does that mean?” 

“Alcohol negates consent Isabella.”  

“Consent?  Why would I need consent?”  

“Not you getting a consent.  Giving it.”  

“Why would I need to give consent?”  

“Because consent is everything Belle.”  They fell silent for a moment. 

“It’s funny.” Belle’s lips quirked up.  

“What is?” 

“Getting a lecture from someone who can’t get drunk. I read about that somewhere.”  

“Whether or not I can get drunk isn’t the issue.  I want you to be safe and be able to give consent whenever.”  

“Again, why would I need to give consent?  What aren’t you telling me?” 

“I can’t do this here.”  

“Steve, you are confusing me.  Just be plain spoken. I’m still here; you obviously haven’t scared me off.”  

Steve studied her.  Her angelic face, her violet eyes, her hair pulled up, exposing her beautiful neck. Steve decided to explain.  “I want a specific kind of relationship Isabella.  I’m not looking for a romantic type, more of a companion.”  

“Companion?”  

“Someone to attend events with me and attend to my other needs.”  

Belle looked at him curiously.  “Needs?  Like an assistant.”  

Steve chuckled.  “I have plenty of assistants Belle.”  

“I’m glad I’m still amusing.” Belle sipped her coffee again.  

“Let’s finish breakfast and I can show you what I mean.”  Steve ordered for them and they ate in silence.  Once he paid, he took her back to the penthouse.  He took her up the stair and to a plain room.  “If you agree to be mine, this room will be yours.”  

“You want me to live here?” 

“On the weekends, yes.  I’ll give you everything you need.  Clothes, toiletries, books, anything. In exchange, you get me.”  

“For what purpose?” 

Steve pulled her out of the room and to the dining room.  On the glass table sat a stack of paperwork.  “This is a contract.  Details of the relationship I want.  The dos and don’ts if you will.”  

“Contract for a relationship?”  

“It’s important.  It protects you and me from making a mess of our lives.  It outlines what I expect, what I offer.  It also states what you are and are not willing to try.”  

Belle’s head spun.  “I don’t even know what to think or say.  What are you trying to tell me?” 

Steve took her hand.  “Come.” He walked her into another room.  This room was dark, the black furniture, a king size black sleigh bed with stark white sheets.  Belle glanced around the room to see all of the objects on the walls.  She gasped at the whips and canes, chains and ropes.   

“What are you?” she whispered.  

“I like control Isabella.  A long time ago, I was introduced to the world of dominance and submission.  I am a dominate.  I would like you to be my submissive.” Belle started to walk the room, touching what she could, trying to make sense of what she was seeing. Her mind was reeling.  “Talk to me, tell me what you are thinking.”  

“I don’t know what to think.”  

“Is this something you have experience before?” 

“No.”  

“Well, during sex, have you tried anything that excites you?” 

“I couldn’t tell you.” Belle began to blush.  

“We can’t have secrets Isabella. Tell me.”  

“No, I really can’t.  I’ve never…never…”  

“You’re a virgin?” Belle couldn’t speak or look at him.  “Isabella, tell me.”  

“Yes,” she whispered.  

“How… why… Christ, I just…” He grabbed her hand and pulled her out of the room.  They sat in the living room and Steve dropped his hands in his head.  He didn’t know what to ask first.  Finally, he looked at Belle. “Why?” he asked simply.  

“There was a lot of things that happened since I was a kid.  It wasn’t something I was worried about,” Belle said simply.  

“Tell me.”  

“My adoptive father died when I was sixteen and I was alone.  I was taken in by some friends of his until I was eighteen and then I was in school on scholarship.  Delilah, Peter, MJ, Hope and Scott became my family.”  

“You were adopted?”  Steve was amazed that it didn’t show on the report Bucky had done.  

“Yeah, my parents died in an accident that I survived as a baby.  My dad took me in.  Said he was friends with them.  It was in their will that I be placed with him.” Belle wiped her eyes.  

“So you’ve never had a lover?  A boyfriend?” 

“One, but we were not together long.  He disappeared after I said I wouldn’t leave with him.”  

“And you never?”  She shook her head.  “I would have never shown you if I knew.”  

“And how was I supposed to tell you this?”  Belle grew angry.  “You were so confusing.  You brought me here and I assumed you wanted a relationship with me.”  

“I do, just not a traditional one. But I need to fix this.”  

“Fix what?”  

“Your status.  Come.”  He pulled her from the couch.

Next

Taglist:

@patzammit

@texmexdarling

@slutforchrisjamalevans

@jennmurawski13-writes

@firephotogrl74

@tinkerbelle67

@before-we-get-started

@bunnyforhim

@alexakeyloveloki

@amiquette

[egg-emperor]

My sources for the Eggman info that's considered, compiled, and included in my analysis and fact sharing:

THE GAMES - English and JP. Number one source above everything. Anything outside of it has to align with them to be considered because I'm specifically all about game canon Eggman and there's no other place that's going to define game Eggman than, well, the games themselves

Sonic Channel - Because Sega/Sonic Team JP are most credible when it comes to their own characters. the information is valuable and adds a lot of cool details, fun facts, art, stories, and videos, faithful to the games

TailsTube English and JP - Because they're made to be informative about the characters and world we see in the games and are meant to be the rundown of facts and things we need to know. Possibly also JP VTuber stream stuff but I still haven't gotten entire translations of VTuber Eggman's first appearance yet to be able to compile and analyze anything

Sega/Sonic Team official writers/creators, English or JP - ONLY if they worked on the specific piece of media/story/character they're speaking on. For example, Flynn on writing Frontiers, but if it's game he didn't write for then no. Unless it's someone who is a credible source on possessing knowledge even outside of that like Iizuka for example, and it adds up with the games' contents

Small bonuses - Some promotional material both English and JP. For example, the Sonic Forces join the Eggman Empire video on the English YouTube and the JP Sonic Forces Eggman takeover Eggman video because they're used to promote the games and don't contradict anything and only add to it. This varies as stuff that isn't directly tied to the games or made entirely in jest doesn't count

----------------------------------------

In rare cases I will also refer to bios to support already existing facts in the games further. But Eggman has had a couple of very inaccurate bios where he's done the exact opposite in the games of what the bio states at times. So it's not black and white, I don't take it as solid proof if it's only ever been stated in the bio and won't refer to bios alone. There has to be something to point to in the games that either proves or disproves the information provided

And these alone (not including the Boom videos) really do give you all you need to know above everything as they speak for themselves:

All the main canon titles are included here and I'm working on others.

----------------------------------------

And that's it. And all of the above except for the games themselves can vary a lot because it needs to be 100% reflected in the games for it to be considered and added to my fact compiling and used in my analysis. If it contradicts it or there's no solid evidence reflecting it in the games and it also doesn't make sense as a result, I won't include it

I don't like to mash all the different official media together and use that as proof of character or stories in the games. I see people do this a lot by talking like something is game canon and when asked for sources, they pull up Archie, X, Boom, SatAM, non canon apps, Twitter DMs, contradictory bios, etc, it makes stuff super confusing and most are from separate non canon universes

You can do what you want in your own fan stuff of course but please understand that I specifically discuss, analyze, and write about game canon Eggman myself here and value and appreciate canon and want to show my love and passion for it. And these are my heavily excessively analyzed sources for everything I gather and perceive of his character facts and writing etc

I'm also always trying to keep my headcanons and fics as accurate to what I learn from all of this as possible, so if you don't like how Eggman is in the games/any of these sources in terms of personality and actions, you won't like my stuff. Trust me, everyone who has said they're not big fans of game canon Eggman has wound up hating my stuff lol. If you love game Egg like me then please discuss him with me 💜🥚

Figured this would be a good post to make and link in my pinned bio post when I make it. I may update and change things in this list in the future and have this post be the main place to refer to where I get my stuff from

[xoxobluelock]

Idioms, phrases, etc. reference page for Milk and Honey: Chapter 1

These are things I’m afraid translation apps might butcher. This list is VERY spoiler-y. I wish there was a way to do this without the spoilers. And I used so many sayings in this chapter 😅

Cat’s paw: a person who is used by another to carry out an unpleasant or dangerous task.

Milk and honey: prosperity and abundance, riches

Loose screws: someone with “a few screws loose” is kinda crazy or eccentric

Keep one’s footing: not stumble / remain balanced

One’s type: the kind of person one is interested in romantically / sexually; in Sae’s case, big blondes with big butts 😂

Clock strikes midnight: Cinderella ref because I can’t help myself with RyuSae; it indicates a deadline or the time when something ends; like when Cinderella’s time at the ball ended because the spell cast to give her a gown expired.  

Perfect stranger: a complete stranger; a person with whom one has no affiliation whatsoever.

Honeypot / honeytrap: spies seduce their victims/targets to more easily/quietly murder, interrogate, etc., them; an investigative practice involving the use of romantic or sexual relationships for interpersonal, political (including state espionage), or monetary purpose

Golden opportunity: a rare chance to do something that is likely to be successful and rewarding 

Hand something over on a silver platter: to allow someone to get something very easily, without having to work for it 

Fight or flight: instinctual reaction to danger where you either fight back or run away

Sweep under the rug: to hide (something that is illegal, embarrassing, or wrong)

Dumb luck: pure chance

Blonde bombshell: stereotype of a beautiful blonde, could include the “dumb blonde” stereotype: looks but no brains; “blondes have more fun” (Think Marilyn Monroe…)

Give the game away: inadvertently reveal something secret.

Set the stage: To be the catalyst for something that happens later; to prepare for something or make something possible

Play up: exaggerate 

Due diligence: action that is considered reasonable for people to be expected to take in order to keep themselves or others and their property safe

Nom de guerre: an assumed name under which a person engages in combat or some other activity or enterprise. 

Pop something: take a drug / “pop a pill”

Hit: in this context, a murder. Like when a hitman kills, it’s a ‘hit’

Long game: something that takes time and could bring success farther into the future, rather than in the present or near future

On the table: a possibility, an option

Corporeal information gathering: allusion to torture, don’t know if that will translate right

Clone: to run a program on a computer/device to duplicate / steal its files

Bug: hidden / covert recording device 

Hot and heavy: full of strong emotions or sexual feelings

Into the ether / cloud: the sky / atmosphere; in this context, basically the internet 

Turn of events: outcome / situation

Blood run cold: something that makes your blood run cold is disturbing or frightening

To be had: to be tricked or fooled by someone

Hold one’s tongue: not speak

Upper hand: advantage

Dirt: blackmail

Go sideways: go awry, not go as planned, veer off course

Whole: in this context, unharmed

Up the ante: gambling term; increase what is at stake or under discussion, especially in a conflict or dispute: he decided to up the ante in the trade war.

Mark: a target; a person who is easily deceived or taken advantage of

Cut one’s losses: to stop an activity, business, etc., that is failing in order to prevent more losses or damage

Go all in: gambling term; bet every chip; to risk all your money in a game such as poker (= a card game played for money)

Go down: lose / be defeated

Bring to one’s knees: to defeat someone 

Dig one’s own grave: to do something that causes you harm, sometimes serious harm

Throw one’s muscle / weight around: to exercise influence, authority especially, or force to an excessive degree or in an objectionable manner

Take it: allow something to happen without resisting

Spun gold: Flattened gold, or silver-gilt wire wound on a thread of yellow silk; Ryusei has very pretty hair

Too good to be true: something/someone so perfect that it’s suspicious and almost can’t be real

Civilian: someone not involved in…things Sae might be involved in. Just a regular, innocent person with a normal, innocent occupation. 

Blown pupils: dilated pupils, from desire, drugs, darkness

Far cry: something notably different

[el-smacko]

The Atlantic. What else can I say.

I will not defend Muammar Gaddafi, but Amnesty International would prefer a characterization of excessive violence between armed entities rather than simply a totalitarian massacring only peaceful protestors, to say nothing of the fact that Western empires used the no-fly zone as a premise to enact regime change, including with expressly forbidden ground forces and military aid to the rebels. As for letting off Omar al-Bashir:

The Guardian article they cite says he fled amidst a court hearing on whether he should be arrested which ultimately resulted in the affirmative. They are blaming South Africa for affirming the international court with due process that happened to coincide with his flight.

Their citation for Hamas demanding genocide is another Atlantic article:

The comparison of the 2017 Hamas charter (the only relevant document here) with Mein Kampf is pathetic and exactly what you would expect from an American “counterterrorism” expert. For the record, here are some relevant excerpts from the official English translation of the charter, a five-minute read easily accessible online (I will have to reblog with the images because of an app image limit):

[buygoodsales]

How to Get the Best Deals on Products .The Ultimate Guide to Buying Products on Sale .

Know before Buying Products on Sales.

Buying products on sale is a great way to save money. But with so many sales and discounts available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here is an ultimate guide to help you find the best deals on products and save money.

Best deals on products Seasonal sales

Many retailers offer discounts on seasonal items during the off-season. For example, you can find great deals on winter clothes in the spring and summer. and also Holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday are a great time to find deals on a variety of products. Retailers often have clearance sales to get rid of excess inventory. This is a great way to find deals on discontinued items or last-season styles. and  Outlet stores sell discounted merchandise from brand-name retailers. This is a great place to find deals on name-brand products.

Second-hand stores sell used items, including clothes, furniture, and electronics. This is a great place to find deals on gently-used items. Buying products on sale .

Do your research: Before you buy anything, do your research to find out the fair market value of the product. This will help you avoid overpaying. check price on the online platform like Amazon , Flipkart and all . Because to know the price difference from offline retailer and online platform so that you can compare the best product at good price .

Use price comparison tools: There are a number of websites and apps that allow you to compare prices from different retailers. This is a great way to make sure you're getting the best deal. There are many number of the tools which give You the best Analytics graph of price difference so that people can check the price up and down on that product in the online platforms because they want to give you the best .

Sign up for retailer newsletters: Many retailers offer email newsletters that notify you of sales and promotions. This is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest deals. Here one thing you can also do is giving your Mobile number if you know them or trust them because through this they can send you the message of offers and high sales and Seasonal discount on the each product which help you to reduce the time of research .

Use coupons and promo codes: Many retailers offer coupons and promo codes that can save you money on your purchase. Be sure to check for these before you checkout. Uncover a treasure trove of savings through coupons and promotional codes. Retailers frequently provide these codes, translating into significant price reductions when applied during checkout. Remember to scout for these virtual keys to savings.

Shop around: Don't just buy from the first retailer you see. Compare prices from different stores to make sure you're getting the best deal.

Negotiate: If you're buying a big-ticket item, don't be afraid to negotiate the price. Many retailers are willing to negotiate, especially if you're a loyal customer and Embarking on a significant purchase journey? Don't hesitate to flex your negotiation muscles. Retailers often respond favorably, particularly when dealing with loyal customers. Your prowess in negotiation can unveil hidden discounts.

How to get discounts

Be a loyal customer: Many retailers offer discounts to loyal customers. Sign up for their loyalty program and start earning points or rewards . and Forge a digital connection with your preferred retailers on social media platforms. Their posts often unveil hidden gems – sales and promotions that would otherwise remain concealed. Stay effortlessly updated on the latest deals through these channels.

Use a credit card with cash back rewards: There are a number of credit cards that offer cash back rewards on your purchases. This can be a great way to earn money back on your shopping.

Shop with cashback websites: There are a number of websites that offer cashback rewards when you shop through their website. This is a great way to earn money back on your shopping.

Use a price drop protection service: There are a number of services that will refund you the difference if the price of an item drops within a certain period of time after you purchase it. This is a great way to ensure you're getting the best deal.

Shopping tips

Set a budget: Before you start shopping, set a budget and stick to it. This will help you avoid overspending.

Make a list: Before you go shopping, make a list of the items you need. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.

Shop online: Online shopping can be a great way to find deals. Many retailers offer discounts and promotions on their websites.

Shop during off-peak times: Retailers are more likely to offer discounts during off-peak times, such as weekdays or during the off-season.

Conclusion

Embrace Timing Flexibility: Not all sales are born equal. The off-season and weekdays often play host to some of the most remarkable deals. Keep your shopping schedule versatile. Explore Every Avenue: The first option isn't necessarily the best. Allow yourself the luxury of exploring multiple retailers, comparing prices, and ensuring you're capturing the most favorable deal.

Seek Expert Advice: If the path to remarkable deals seems intricate, don't hesitate to seek assistance. Sales personnel possess a wealth of insights that can steer you toward the most lucrative deals. A simple question can lead you in the right direction .By following these tips, you can find the best deals on products and save money. So don't wait any longer, start shopping today!

[kblogs04]

From Pollution to Solution: The Environmental Impact of Carpooling

In areas like Delhi NCR, where high levels of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions are caused by excessive traffic, urban pollution is becoming a bigger problem. Carpooling, a straightforward yet efficient approach that turns daily commutes from sources of pollution into environmentally beneficial travel, is one of the best methods to address this problem.

By enabling several people to share a single ride, carpooling lowers the number of cars on the road. This directly reduces pollutants and fuel use, hence reducing each commuter's carbon footprint. Users may easily connect with people going in the same direction by selecting a carpooling app like RideBuddy, which makes hassle-free ride sharing easier.

Carpooling not only lowers pollution but also eases traffic congestion, which results in less idle time and more efficient traffic flow. As a result, emissions are further reduced and air quality is improved. Furthermore, fewer vehicles on the road translate into less damage to the infrastructure, which eventually helps cities.

In addition to promoting environmental objectives, RideBuddy cultivates a network of environmentally concerned tourists who are dedicated to leading more eco-friendly lives. By adopting carpooling, we can all work together to combat pollution and turn every commute into a chance to save the environment and create a cleaner future.

Download the app now: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=app.ridebuddy.carpool&pcampaignid=web_share

[technicallylovingcomputer]

Dynamic Asset Loading: How to Handle Large Worlds on Mobile Without Crashes

In the competitive landscape of mobile gaming, players expect console-quality experiences on their pocket-sized devices. But creating expansive game worlds while avoiding the dreaded "Application Not Responding" dialog presents a significant challenge for developers. Let's dive into how dynamic asset loading can help you create impressive mobile game worlds without crashing your players' devices.

The Mobile Memory Challenge

Mobile devices, despite their advancing capabilities, still operate with strict memory constraints compared to PCs or consoles. When your game tries to load too many high-resolution textures, complex 3D models, and audio files simultaneously, you're asking for trouble.

The consequences are severe: frame rate drops, excessive battery drain, overheating devices, and ultimately, crashes that frustrate players and lead to negative reviews. So how do you deliver those sprawling landscapes and detailed environments without bringing devices to their knees?

Enter Dynamic Asset Loading

Dynamic asset loading is the practice of intelligently managing your game's resources by loading only what's needed at a specific moment and unloading assets when they're no longer required. Think of it as a constantly shifting inventory system that keeps only the essential items on hand.

Core Benefits

Reduced memory footprint: By loading only what's visible or about to be visible, you can create worlds far larger than would fit in memory all at once.

Faster loading times: Initial app launch becomes much quicker as you're only loading a fraction of the total assets.

Smoother gameplay: With proper implementation, players experience fewer stutters and frame drops during transitions.

Battery efficiency: Less memory usage typically translates to lower power consumption.

Implementing Dynamic Asset Loading

1. Asset Categorization and Prioritization

Start by categorizing your assets based on their importance and usage patterns:

Critical assets: Elements that must always be available (player character, UI elements, core mechanics).

Zone-specific assets: Resources tied to specific game areas or levels.

Optional assets: Nice-to-have elements that can be loaded at lower priority or quality.

2. Level of Detail (LOD) Systems

LOD systems are a cornerstone of dynamic asset management. They work by:

Using simplified versions of models and textures for distant objects

Progressively increasing detail as the player approaches

Managing transitions smoothly to avoid visual "popping"

A well-tuned LOD system can dramatically reduce memory usage while maintaining visual fidelity where it matters most.

3. Streaming Zones and Boundaries

Break your game world into logical zones that can be loaded independently:

World├── Zone A │ ├── Subzone A1 │ └── Subzone A2 ├── Zone B └── Zone C

As players move through your world, load upcoming zones in the background and unload distant ones they've left behind. Create "loading boundaries" that trigger asset swapping before players reach new areas.

4. Asset Bundles and Caching

Most game engines support asset bundling systems that group related resources together:

Create logical bundles that align with your zones or feature sets

Implement a caching system that retains frequently used bundles

Use asset versioning to update only changed resources

Unity's Addressable Asset System and Unreal's Asset Manager are powerful tools for handling this complexity.

5. Memory Budgeting

Establish strict memory budgets for different aspects of your game:

Textures: Often the largest memory hogs, consider using texture atlases and compression

Models: Monitor polygon counts and bone complexity

Audio: Stream longer audio files rather than loading them completely

Particles and Effects: Limit simultaneous particle systems

Creating dashboards to monitor memory usage during development helps catch issues before they reach players.

Best Practices for Mobile Game Development

Predictive Loading

Don't wait until assets are needed to begin loading them. Analyze player movement patterns and begin loading assets for likely destinations:

If a player is approaching a door, start loading the room beyond it

If they're nearing a story trigger, prepare the cutscene assets

For open worlds, prioritize loading in the direction of movement

Graceful Fallbacks

Even the best systems occasionally face challenges. Implement fallbacks for when memory pressure becomes severe:

Reduce texture quality temporarily

Simplify distant geometry further

Disable non-essential visual effects

Prioritize gameplay-critical elements over visual enhancements

Background Loading and Threading

Move asset loading off the main thread whenever possible:

Use asynchronous loading to prevent UI freezes

Implement loading screens for major transitions if necessary

Consider showing interesting loading visuals or tips that distract from wait times

Memory Monitoring and Management

Implement runtime memory monitoring that can:

Alert when approaching dangerous thresholds

Trigger emergency asset unloading when memory pressure becomes critical

Adapt to different device capabilities automatically

Testing Across Device Tiers

The mobile ecosystem includes devices spanning a wide performance range. Test your dynamic loading system on:

High-end flagship devices

Mid-range phones (2-3 years old)

Budget devices that meet your minimum specifications

Pay special attention to older devices where memory constraints are tightest.

Conclusion

Dynamic asset loading isn't just a technical optimization—it's what makes truly ambitious mobile games possible. By thoughtfully managing when and how assets are loaded into memory, you can create immersive worlds that rival console experiences while maintaining the performance and stability mobile players expect.

Remember that the best implementations are invisible to players. They should never realize you're performing this complex juggling act behind the scenes. They'll just know your game runs smoothly and looks amazing, even on their three-year-old smartphone.

With careful planning, thorough testing, and continuous refinement, your dynamic asset loading system will allow you to push the boundaries of what's possible in mobile game development, delivering experiences that keep players coming back for more.

[miqenergy]

Unlocking the Best Solar Deal in NSW: A Guide to Going Solar in 2025

As energy prices continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, more homeowners and businesses in New South Wales (NSW) are turning to solar power. With generous government incentives, abundant sunlight, and increasing awareness about sustainability, there’s never been a better time to secure a solar deal that makes sense both financially and environmentally. If you're looking for the best solar deal in NSW, this blog will walk you through what to look for, what incentives are available, and how to make the most of your solar investment.

Why Go Solar in NSW?

NSW is one of Australia's most solar-friendly states. The state enjoys high solar irradiance, which means your solar panels will generate a significant amount of energy year-round. This translates to lower electricity bills and a quicker return on investment. The state also supports a range of rebates and programs to help make solar systems more accessible.

But to truly take advantage of the opportunity, you need to find the right solar deal tailored to your needs.

What Makes a Good Solar Deal?

Not all solar deals are created equal. While some may lure you in with low upfront costs, others may offer higher quality panels and longer warranties. Here are a few things to look out for when considering a solar deal in NSW:

Panel Quality: Tier-1 panels from reputable manufacturers tend to be more efficient and durable.

Inverter Quality: The inverter is the heart of your solar system. Make sure you’re getting a reliable brand with a good warranty.

Warranties: Look for at least a 10-year product warranty on inverters and 25 years on panel performance.

Installation: Choose a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer. This ensures your system meets Australian standards and is eligible for government rebates.

After-Sales Support: Reliable customer service and ongoing maintenance support can make a big difference.

Current Solar Incentives in NSW

If you're looking to score the best solar deal in NSW, understanding the available incentives is key.

1. Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)

STCs reduce the upfront cost of your solar system. The amount you receive depends on the system size and your location. When you get a quote for a solar system, STCs are usually already deducted from the price.

2. Solar for Low-Income Households Trial

This NSW Government program helps eligible low-income households switch to solar. If you receive an eligible Centrelink payment, you might be able to get a free 3kW system in exchange for opting out of the Low Income Household Rebate for 10 years.

3. Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs)

With a feed-in tariff, you get paid for excess energy your system exports back to the grid. While FiTs have decreased over the years, they can still add value to your solar deal, especially if you generate more energy than you use.

Tips for Finding the Best Solar Deal in NSW

1. Compare Multiple Quotes

Don’t just go with the first offer. Use comparison websites or reach out to at least 3 different providers. Look for a balance of price, quality, and service.

2. Check Company Reviews

Reputation matters. Check Google reviews, SolarQuotes, and ProductReview.com.au to get real feedback from customers who’ve installed systems with the provider you're considering.

3. Consider Battery Storage

If you're a high energy user or want to maximise your independence from the grid, including a battery like the Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem can be a smart investment. Many solar deal NSW now include battery options or offer packages that make it easier to add one later.

4. Ask About Monitoring Tools

A good solar system should come with an app or monitoring portal. This lets you track your usage and savings in real-time and ensure your system is working at peak performance.

Final Thoughts: Is 2025 the Year to Go Solar?

Absolutely. With technology improving, prices stabilizing, and climate goals becoming more urgent, solar is no longer a future dream—it's a smart, immediate investment. Whether you're a homeowner looking to cut your bills or a business aiming for sustainability, the right solar deal can save you thousands over the life of the system.

If you live in NSW, you're in one of the best regions in Australia to go solar. With plenty of sunlight, government support, and competitive market options, finding a great solar deal in NSW is well within reach.

Ready to make the switch? Start comparing deals today and see how much you can save by going green!

[mounianjali]

Elevate Your Finance Skills with SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting

In the contemporary commercial enterprise panorama, finance experts are no longer simply number crunchers—they're strategic companions, selection-makers, and innovation drivers. To thrive in this evolving function, it’s essential to equip your self with present day tools that could deliver actual-time insights, streamline financial operations, and help compliance throughout international organisations. One such effective device is SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting—SAP’s subsequent-technology consolidation and economic reporting solution.

Whether you are an SAP representative, an accountant, or a finance leader, getting to know SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting can increase your profession, enlarge your abilities, and open the door to high-value roles in global corporations.

What is SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting?

SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting is SAP’s embedded solution for economic consolidation and organization-degree reporting. It’s built without delay into the S/4HANA digital middle and gets rid of the want for 0.33-birthday celebration or standalone reporting gear. By using actual-time data from the Universal Journal (ACDOCA) and committed consolidation tables (ACDOCU), Group Reporting affords a unbroken, integrated platform for organization monetary near.

Key functions consist of:

Real-time consolidation and reporting

Integration with actual transaction data (no records replication)

Multi-foreign money consolidation

Intercompany eliminations

Support for criminal and control consolidations

Access via contemporary Fiori-based packages

Why Learning Group Reporting is a Smart Move

In the generation of digital finance, the ability to consolidate financials successfully and as it should be is critical for multinational corporations. Traditional techniques of consolidation the use of Excel sheets or previous gear now not meet the needs of nowadays’s finance teams.

By getting to know SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting, you gain knowledge in a solution that enables actual-time, obvious, and accurate economic reporting—competencies which are fantastically valued via employers globally.

Moreover, many agencies are migrating from legacy SAP structures (like ECC, BPC, and EC-CS) to S/4HANA, growing the call for for professionals who recognize the organization reporting module.

How Training Can Help You Excel

Joining a practical and practical on line schooling application for SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting is the simplest way to grasp the module. A well-dependent course will help you:

Understand the cease-to-give up consolidation technique

Learn the way to configure key additives like FS Items, Consolidation Units, and Versions

Perform currency translation, intercompany eliminations, and consolidation of investments

Generate group financial statements the usage of Fiori apps

Prepare for the SAP Group Reporting certification examination

The proper training program additionally includes actual-time gadget get admission to, allowing you to practice in an SAP S/4HANA environment. This palms-on experience is important for applying your expertise expectantly in stay tasks or interviews.

Who Should Consider Learning Group Reporting?

This schooling is ideal for:

SAP FI/CO specialists trying to upskill in S/4HANA

Finance experts involved in consolidation or reporting

SAP users helping financial close tactics

Graduates and freshers aiming to go into the SAP domain

Even in case you're new to SAP, a primary know-how of accounting ideas and economic reporting is sufficient to get began.

Career Opportunities After Learning Group Reporting

Once you've got mastered SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting, you can step into excessive-demand roles which includes:

SAP Group Reporting Consultant

Financial Consolidation Specialist

SAP S/4HANA Finance Functional Analyst

Corporate Reporting Manager

These roles frequently come with international publicity, attractive salaries, and the risk to paintings on huge-scale digital transformation tasks.

Final Thoughts

Finance is evolving, and so should your abilties. SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting isn't simply every other SAP module—it’s a game-changing answer for employer-extensive economic consolidation and reporting. By mastering this effective tool, you role your self as a ahead-wondering finance professional prepared to guide in the digital age.

Whether you’re looking to grow in your present day position, transfer careers, or increase your market price, now could be the time to put money into your destiny. Enroll in a practical online education application these days and take your finance profession to the next stage with SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting.

info@proexcellency.com, +91-9148251978,+91-9008906809

[winklix]

Navigating the App Store Submission Process: Tips and Best Practices

The journey from a brilliant app idea to seeing it live on the App Store can be thrilling, but the submission process itself? Often, it feels like navigating a labyrinth. Apple's stringent guidelines and review process, while ensuring quality and security, can be daunting. Fear not! This blog will equip you with the essential tips and best practices to streamline your app submission and increase your chances of a smooth approval.

1. Understand Apple's App Store Guidelines (ASG): Your Holy Grail

Before writing a single line of code, dive deep into the Apple App Store Guidelines. They are the foundation of the submission process. Familiarize yourself with:

Design Guidelines: Ensure your app aligns with Apple's Human Interface Guidelines (HIG) for a consistent user experience.

Functionality Guidelines: Understand the prohibited functionalities and ensure your app's features comply.

Business Guidelines: Be aware of Apple's policies on in-app purchases, subscriptions, and advertising.

Privacy Guidelines: Prioritize user privacy and data security. Clearly outline your data collection and usage practices.

2. Thorough Testing: Bug-Free is the Way to Be

Apple prioritizes a seamless user experience. Rigorous testing is crucial.

Device Diversity: Test your app on a variety of iOS devices and screen sizes.

Beta Testing: Utilize TestFlight to gather feedback from real users before submitting.

Edge Cases: Identify and address potential issues that might arise under unusual circumstances.

Performance Testing: Ensure your app is responsive and doesn't drain battery excessively.

3. Optimize Metadata: Your App's First Impression

Metadata is how users discover your app. Make it count!

App Name: Keep it concise, relevant, and memorable.

Keywords: Research and use relevant keywords to improve search visibility.

App Description: Clearly explain your app's features and benefits. Highlight its unique value proposition.

Screenshots and App Previews: Showcase your app's best features with high-quality visuals.

Category Selection: Choose the most appropriate category to reach your target audience.

4. Prepare for Review: Anticipate Questions

Apple's review team might have questions about your app's functionality or content. Be prepared to provide:

Demo Account: If your app requires login, provide a demo account for review.

Test Data: Include relevant test data to demonstrate your app's functionality.

Explanatory Notes: If your app has unique features or requires specific configurations, provide clear instructions.

Contact Information: Ensure your contact information is accurate and up-to-date.

5. App Store Connect: Your Central Hub

App Store Connect is your portal for managing your app submissions.

Accurate Information: Double-check all information before submitting, including pricing, availability, and localization.

Version Control: Utilize version control to track changes and manage updates.

Review Status: Monitor your app's review status and respond promptly to any feedback from Apple.

Resolution Center: Use the resolution center to communicate with Apple's review team and address any issues.

6. Localization: Reach a Global Audience

If your app targets a global audience, localization is essential.

Translate Content: Translate your app's text, metadata, and visuals into relevant languages.

Cultural Adaptation: Consider cultural nuances and adapt your app's design and functionality accordingly.

Right-to-Left Support: Ensure your app supports right-to-left languages if necessary.

7. Stay Updated: Apple's Policies Evolve

Apple's App Store Guidelines and policies are subject to change. Stay informed about the latest updates to ensure your app remains compliant.

Apple Developer Website: Regularly check the Apple Developer website for announcements and updates.

WWDC Sessions: Attend or watch WWDC sessions to learn about new features and guidelines.

Developer Forums: Engage with the developer community and stay informed about industry best practices.

Also read : How machine learning can help revamp mobile app ?

8. Don't Give Up: Rejections are Part of the Process

App rejections are common. Don't be discouraged.

Understand the Reasons: Carefully review the rejection reasons provided by Apple.

Address the Issues: Make the necessary changes to comply with the guidelines.

Resubmit with Clear Explanations: Clearly explain the changes you've made in your resubmission notes.

By following these tips and best practices, you can navigate the App Store submission process with confidence and increase your chances of a successful launch. Remember, patience, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality are key. Good luck!

[mkelectricman]

Energy Efficiency in the Crescent City: Tips from a Trusted New Orleans Electrician

In a city as vibrant and dynamic as New Orleans, energy efficiency might not always be top of mind. Between enjoying jazz festivals, indulging in Creole cuisine, and celebrating Mardi Gras, residents often overlook how much electricity their homes consume—or how much they could save by making smarter choices. However, with rising utility costs, increasingly severe weather patterns, and a growing emphasis on sustainability, now is the perfect time to rethink your home’s energy usage.

A trusted New Orleans electrician can play a pivotal role in helping you achieve greater energy efficiency while ensuring your electrical system remains safe and reliable. In this article, we’ll share expert tips and strategies for reducing energy waste, lowering bills, and contributing to a greener future—all tailored to the unique needs of Crescent City homeowners.

1. The Importance of Energy Efficiency in New Orleans

New Orleans faces several factors that make energy efficiency particularly important:

High Humidity Levels: Constant moisture puts extra strain on HVAC systems, leading to higher energy consumption.

Storm Season Preparedness: Hurricanes and tropical storms disrupt power grids, emphasizing the need for resilient and efficient systems.

Historic Homes: Many older properties have outdated wiring and inefficient appliances, which waste electricity and increase expenses.

Environmental Impact: Reducing energy use helps lower carbon emissions, supporting efforts to combat climate change.

By adopting energy-efficient practices, you can save money, improve comfort, and contribute to a more sustainable community.

2. Upgrade to LED Lighting

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to boost energy efficiency is by switching to LED (light-emitting diode) lighting. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer. New Orleans electrician

Why Choose LED Lighting?

Cost Savings: Lower energy consumption translates to reduced utility bills.

Durability: LEDs are resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations, making them ideal for New Orleans’ climate.

Versatility: Available in various colors and brightness levels, LEDs suit both functional and decorative purposes.

How an Electrician Helps:

While replacing bulbs is straightforward, integrating smart lighting controls or rewiring fixtures may require professional assistance. A skilled electrician ensures seamless upgrades without compromising safety.

3. Install Smart Thermostats

Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of household energy use. Smart thermostats offer a convenient way to optimize HVAC performance, saving energy and money.

Benefits of Smart Thermostats:

Automated Scheduling: Program your thermostat to adjust temperatures based on your daily routine, avoiding unnecessary heating or cooling when no one’s home.

Remote Control: Use smartphone apps to monitor and adjust settings remotely, even during unexpected trips or storm-related evacuations.

Energy Insights: Many models provide detailed reports on usage patterns, helping you identify opportunities for further savings.

Professional Installation:

Improper installation can negate the benefits of a smart thermostat. An experienced electrician ensures compatibility with your HVAC system and configures settings for optimal efficiency.

4. Conduct an Energy Audit

An energy audit evaluates your home’s energy consumption and identifies areas where improvements can be made. This process typically involves inspecting insulation, windows, doors, and major appliances to pinpoint inefficiencies.

Common Findings:

Leaky ductwork causing HVAC inefficiency.

Outdated appliances consuming excessive electricity.

Poorly sealed windows allowing heat transfer.

Overloaded circuits straining the electrical panel.

Partnering with an Electrician:

Electricians often collaborate with energy auditors to address electrical issues uncovered during the assessment. For example, they might recommend upgrading wiring, replacing old panels, or installing energy-efficient outlets.

5. Upgrade Appliances and Fixtures

Older appliances and fixtures tend to guzzle electricity, especially if they predate modern energy standards. Replacing them with ENERGY STAR-certified alternatives can yield substantial savings.

Key Upgrades:

Refrigerators, Dishwashers, and Washers/Dryers: Modern versions use advanced technology to minimize energy and water consumption.

Tankless Water Heaters: These heat water on demand rather than maintaining a reservoir, cutting standby energy loss.

Ceiling Fans: Properly sized fans improve air circulation, reducing reliance on air conditioning.

Expert Guidance:

An electrician can help determine whether your current wiring supports new appliances and ensure proper installation to prevent overloads or malfunctions.

6. Stormproof Your Electrical System

Hurricanes and tropical storms pose unique challenges for energy efficiency. Damaged systems or prolonged outages can lead to wasted resources and costly repairs. Proactive measures include:

Steps to Take:

Whole-House Surge Protection: Safeguards electronics and appliances from voltage spikes caused by lightning or unstable grids.

Backup Generators: Ensure essential systems remain operational during power outages, minimizing disruption and potential spoilage.

Flood-Resistant Components: Elevate electrical panels and outlets above flood-prone areas to reduce water damage risks.

Role of an Electrician:

Stormproofing requires specialized knowledge and materials. A qualified electrician assesses vulnerabilities and implements solutions tailored to your property’s layout and location.

7. Harness Renewable Energy Options

As renewable energy becomes more accessible, many New Orleans homeowners are exploring solar panels as a way to generate clean electricity and reduce dependence on the grid.

Advantages of Solar Power:

Lower Utility Bills: Generate your own electricity and potentially sell excess back to the utility company.

Environmental Benefits: Reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable practices.

Increased Property Value: Homes equipped with solar systems often command higher resale prices.

Working with an Electrician:

Installing solar panels involves complex wiring and permits. A licensed electrician ensures compliance with local codes and integrates the system seamlessly into your existing setup.

8. Educate Yourself About Energy Usage

Understanding how and where you use electricity empowers you to make informed decisions. Simple habits like turning off lights when leaving a room, unplugging idle electronics, and using power strips for multiple devices can add up to meaningful savings.

Tools to Track Usage:

Smart meters provided by utility companies.

Energy monitoring apps compatible with smart home devices.

Regular communication with your electrician about emerging technologies. New Orleans electrician

Final Thoughts

Achieving energy efficiency in New Orleans doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. By partnering with a trusted electrician, you can implement practical solutions that enhance your home’s performance, protect against environmental challenges, and contribute to a brighter future for the city.

Whether you’re upgrading to LED lighting, installing smart thermostats, or exploring renewable energy options, every step counts. Start small, prioritize projects based on your budget and needs, and watch as your efforts pay off in lower bills and a healthier planet. After all, in a place as magical as the Big Easy, there’s no reason why your home shouldn’t shine—efficiently and sustainably.

[airrestore]

Can AI Optimize Filter Cleaning Schedules?

How Does AI Operate in HVAC Systems?

AI, or Artificial Intelligence, employs machine learning algorithms and data analysis to learn about, predict, and optimize the performance of HVAC systems. Through the analysis of data from various sources, including air quality sensors, filter status, and system efficiency, AI can identify when a filter must be cleaned or replaced. This not only keeps filters in their best condition but also minimizes the potential for HVAC system failure.

1. Real-Time Monitoring and Analysis

One of the foremost means by which AI may streamline filter cleaning schedules is via real-time monitoring of filter performance and air quality. Sensors are installed in the HVAC system and monitor parameters like particulate levels, airflow, humidity, and temperature. AI algorithms interpret such data in real time to assess how much dust, debris, and allergens have built up on the filters.

Through real-time analysis, AI is able to detect the precise point at which the filter is reaching its saturation point and trigger cleaning or replacement warnings. This renders schedules for fixed maintenance redundant, which may not always be necessary or accurate.

2. Predictive Maintenance for Improved Efficiency

Artificial intelligence -driven predictive maintenance is revolutionizing how HVAC systems function. Rather than following fixed schedules, AI employs historical data and predictive models to predict when a filter cleaning is required. Based on usage patterns, weather, and occupancy, AI can forecast when the filter will be clogged and suggest cleaning accordingly.

Can AI be used to optimize filter cleaning schedules? Yes, by cleaning only when it is needed, AI minimizes the risk of over-maintenance or neglect, both of which can undermine system efficiency. Predictive maintenance serves to prolong the life of the filters, increase energy efficiency, and lower operating costs.

3. Personalized Filter Cleaning Schedules

Each building or home has individual air quality requirements based on the location, occupation, pets, and activities inside the building. AI can adjust the filter cleaning cycle according to these parameters to clean or replace the filters based on the building’s specific requirements.

For instance, those with pets at home or residents who have allergy issues might have to clean their filters more regularly, whereas under-occupied office spaces might necessitate less stringent maintenance. The AI considers such factors and formulates the schedule to maximize functionality and ensure better indoor air health.

4. Minimizing Energy Consumption and Expenses

When filters become clogged or dirty, HVAC systems must generate more effort in order to allow airflow, causing increased energy use. AI prevents this by causing filters to be cleaned before getting excessively dirty and therefore ensuring the best airflow possible and minimizing the use of energy.

Through filter cleaning schedule optimization, AI minimizes operating expenses and extends the life of HVAC systems. In the long run, this translates to considerable savings on energy and maintenance bills.

5. Avoiding System Failures and Breakdowns

A dirty or neglected filter may cause extensive damage to HVAC parts, leading to repairs or system breakdown. AI picks up early warnings of filter saturation and prevents the problem before it arises. With clean filters and proper system function, AI eliminates the potential for surprise failures and expensive repairs.

6. Smart Home Integration

AI-based HVAC systems can easily be integrated with smart home technology, and homeowners are offered real-time updates and suggestions. These systems can send reminders to users through mobile apps when the filters need to be cleaned or replaced, so that maintenance is never forgotten.

AI systems can also operate in harmony with other smart devices, like air purifiers and humidifiers, to create the best indoor environment that suits personal preferences.

7. Data-Driven Insights for Continuous Improvement

AI not only optimizes filter cleaning schedules but also offers insightful recommendations that can enhance overall system performance. AI can suggest changes to enhance energy efficiency, minimize wear and tear, and maximize air quality by analyzing trends and patterns.

With time, AI systems learn from the data they gather, and they become even better at forecasting maintenance requirements and optimizing cleaning schedules.

8. Dynamic Filtering Adjustments Depending on Environmental Conditions

Environmental conditions like seasonal patterns, pollution rates, and climatic conditions may influence the rate at which filters collect dust and debris. AI considers these, making dynamic adjustments to filter cleaning schedules to have HVAC systems functioning optimally throughout the year.

For example, during pollen season or in high-pollution areas, AI can suggest higher frequency filter cleaning to keep indoor air clean.

9. Automated Reminders and Alerts

Thanks to AI, homeowners and facility managers are no longer required to keep track of filter cleaning schedules mentally. AI systems provide automated reminders and alerts when the filters need to be cleaned or replaced. This way, HVAC systems are kept in optimal condition without guesswork.

10. Scalability for Commercial and Industrial Uses

AI optimization does not just apply to residential HVAC systems. Commercial and industrial buildings can also gain a lot from AI-based predictive maintenance. Multi-unit large buildings can utilize AI to schedule simultaneous filter cleaning across the entire building, enhancing efficiency while minimizing downtime.

[poolheaterintheaustralia]

The Smart Investment: Best Heat Pump for Swimming Pools in 2025

Understanding the Importance of a Heat Pump for Swimming Pools

A swimming pool is a valuable addition to any home, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and exercise. However, maintaining a comfortable water temperature year-round can be challenging. A heat pump for swimming pools is an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution that ensures extended swimming seasons without excessive energy consumption. Choosing the right model in 2025 can significantly impact energy efficiency, operational costs, and overall user satisfaction.

How a Heat Pump for Swimming Pools Works

A heat pump for swimming pools operates by extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it to the pool water. Unlike traditional gas or electric heaters, this system utilizes ambient air to function efficiently, reducing overall energy expenditure. The heat pump compresses and condenses the captured heat, which then circulates through a heat exchanger before being released into the pool water. This process makes it one of the most eco-friendly and cost-effective heating options available.

Key Benefits of Using a Heat Pump for Swimming Pools

Investing in a high-quality heat pump for swimming pools provides numerous advantages. The following benefits highlight why homeowners increasingly opt for this heating solution:

Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps consume significantly less electricity than traditional pool heaters, translating to lower energy bills.

Eco-Friendly Operation: These systems use renewable air sources to generate heat, reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Consistent Performance: Heat pumps maintain steady water temperatures, allowing for comfortable swimming conditions throughout the year.

Long Lifespan: With proper maintenance, a heat pump for swimming pools can last up to 10–15 years, making it a long-term investment.

Cost Savings Over Time: Although the initial installation cost may be higher, the lower operational costs ensure substantial savings in the long run.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heat Pump for Swimming Pools

Selecting the right heat pump for swimming pools requires careful consideration of several factors. The following aspects should be assessed to ensure an informed purchase decision:

Pool Size: The capacity of the heat pump should match the size of the pool to achieve optimal heating efficiency.

Climate and Temperature Range: Certain models perform better in colder climates, making it crucial to choose a pump suited for local weather conditions.

Energy Efficiency Ratings: Checking the coefficient of performance (COP) of a heat pump provides insight into its efficiency.

Noise Levels: Some heat pumps operate more quietly than others, which can be a key consideration for residential areas.

Installation Requirements: Evaluating the space needed for proper installation and ventilation ensures seamless integration into existing pool systems.

Warranty and Maintenance: Choosing a model with a reliable warranty and minimal maintenance requirements adds value to the investment.

Top Features to Look for in a Heat Pump for Swimming Pools in 2025

The latest advancements in pool heating technology have introduced innovative features that enhance performance and user convenience. The best heat pump for swimming pools in 2025 should include:

Inverter Technology: Allows variable-speed operation, optimizing energy consumption based on heating demand.

Smart Controls: Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile app integration enable remote temperature monitoring and adjustments.

Titanium Heat Exchangers: Corrosion-resistant materials improve durability and performance.

Eco-Friendly Refrigerants: Environmentally safe refrigerants contribute to sustainable operation.

Dual-Mode Functionality: Some models offer both heating and cooling modes, ideal for year-round pool use.

Comparing the Best Heat Pump Models for Swimming Pools in 2025

Several models stand out in the market due to their exceptional performance and energy efficiency. While individual preferences and pool specifications vary, the following models are among the top choices:

Model A: Known for its ultra-quiet operation and high COP rating, this model ensures efficient heating with minimal energy consumption.

Model B: Features advanced inverter technology and smart controls for seamless automation and optimized performance.

Model C: Offers a powerful heating capacity, making it ideal for larger pools or colder climates.

Model D: Designed with dual-mode functionality, providing both heating and cooling options for year-round enjoyment.

Cost Analysis: Is a Heat Pump for Swimming Pools Worth the Investment?

While the initial cost of a heat pump for swimming pools is higher than traditional heaters, the long-term savings outweigh the upfront expenses. The operational cost is significantly lower due to its energy-efficient mechanism. On average, a well-maintained heat pump can reduce pool heating expenses by up to 70% compared to gas or electric alternatives. Additionally, many models qualify for energy rebates and incentives, further enhancing affordability.

Installation Tips for Maximum Efficiency

Proper installation is crucial to ensuring optimal performance and longevity of a heat pump for swimming pools. The following tips help maximize efficiency:

Choose an Ideal Location: Positioning the heat pump in an area with ample airflow enhances heat extraction.

Ensure Proper Electrical Setup: Following manufacturer guidelines for electrical connections prevents performance issues.

Optimize Pool Circulation: A well-maintained filtration system ensures even heat distribution.

Use a Pool Cover: Reducing heat loss at night or during colder periods improves efficiency and reduces energy costs.

Maintenance Guidelines for Long-Term Performance

Regular maintenance ensures the heat pump operates efficiently throughout its lifespan. Key maintenance practices include:

Cleaning the Air Filters: Removing dust and debris enhances airflow and system performance.

Inspecting the Coils: Periodic checks prevent corrosion and blockages.

Monitoring Refrigerant Levels: Ensuring proper refrigerant levels maintains optimal heating efficiency.

Checking Electrical Connections: Loose wiring or faulty components can impact performance and should be addressed promptly.

Making an Informed Decision

A heat pump for swimming pools is a smart investment that enhances comfort, extends swimming seasons, and reduces energy expenses. With technological advancements in 2025, selecting the right model ensures superior performance and long-term cost savings. By evaluating pool size, climate, efficiency ratings, and modern features, homeowners can make an informed decision and enjoy an eco-friendly, cost-effective heating solution for years to come.

[mfilterit]

CTV Ad Fraud Uncovered: Key Threats and Strategies for Smarter Ad Investments 

As Connected TV (CTV) advertising grows, criminals find newer ways to exploit its vulnerabilities. CTV ad fraud is now a massive, blown-up issue for advertisers, which ultimately results in wastage of ad spend and misleading performance metrics for the advertising campaigns. Unlike digital advertising, there's no industry-wide standardization in CTV, which offers the perfect playground for fraudsters. 

In this blog will focus on CTV ad fraud, important concerns such as frequency capping breach, threats to brand safety, and issues with viewable impressions, as well as how these affect advertisers. We'll also discuss strategic approaches for preventing fraud to maximize successful ad placements on CTV platforms. 

What are the Issues Concerned with CTV Ad Fraud? 

Violation of Frequency Capping 

Violation of Frequency capping when fraudsters manipulate CTV inventory to serve excessive impressions beyond limits. They loop ads in non-viewable environments, inflate impressions by spoofing device IDs, and reset ad requests to bypass restrictions. This practice drains ad budgets, distort camp 

Brand Safety Concerns 

Brand safety is a major consideration for advertisers: that a brand's ads will only run in suitable environments. CTV fraud threatens brands in varied ways: 

Fake Inventory- Scammers shower ad space on premium quality CTV apps but send them to low-quality or unsuitable content. 

Domain Spoofing- Scammers impersonate authoritative publishers to convince advertisers into buying fake impressions. 

Lack of Transparency- Most CTV ads are placed programmatically which creates more challenges to track the actual place where an ad runs. 

Viewability Issues 

Viewability becomes significant in determining whether an ad is looked at by users. Fraud essentially dilutes the real ad engagements by: 

Ad Stacking- Ads stacked on each other; just the uppermost ad is displayed on the screen. 

Pixel Stuffing- Ads are technically "served" in one-pixel size but never made visible. 

Misleading Reporting- Ad fraudsters forge logs to simulate high engagement. 

Impact of these Issues on CTV Ad Fraud 

The existence of CTV ad fraud has drastic implications for publishers, advertisers, and the ad ecosystem as a whole: 

Wasted Ad Spend – Brands invest huge budgets on fake impressions rather than real user interaction. This translates to lost marketing dollars that can be used on legitimate ad placements and performance-based campaigns. 

Manipulated Campaign Metrics – Deceptive behaviour tricks advertisers into thinking their adverts are doing great, distorting essential performance measures (KPIs) like click-through rates (CTR) and conversions. This may cause uninformed decisions in subsequent marketing strategies. 

Erosion of Trust in CTV Advertisements – If not managed, CTV fraud can demotivate advertisers from spending money on the platform. Brands would shift their ad budgets to other digital ad media that offer superior transparency and accountability. 

Poor ROI and Lower Conversions – Despite the high impression volume, fraudulent traffic does not contribute to actual conversions, which can affect revenue. Brands can have decreasing engagement levels, lower customer acquisition, and lower lifetime value from fraud-infected campaigns. 

Damage to Reputation for Publishers – Publishers and sites that unwittingly host fraudulent behavior can suffer damage to their reputations, and this can cause a loss of advertiser partnerships and revenue. 

Impact on Reach Vs Impressions – Due to frequency capping, ads may generate high impression counts but fail to reach new and relevant audiences. Instead, the same users see repetitive ads, leading to overexposure, ad fatigue and frustration. This stagnation can reduce engagement, harm brand perception, and ultimately diminish the effectiveness of ad campaigns. 

Strategies to Combat CTV Ad Fraud 

Fighting CTV ad fraud means employing a multi-pronged proactive approach. Advertisers must employ sturdy solutions to validate their campaigns. Here are some important techniques: 

Leverage CTV-Specific Ad Fraud Detection Tools 

Deploy a solution like Ad Fraud Detection by mFilterIt for detecting and blocking the fraudulent traffic. 

Use machine learning-based detection techniques to spot anomalies and flag suspicious activities. 

Employ ad verification tools to ensure the ads will reach the desired audience in brand-safe environments. 

Regular Monitoring of Campaign Metrics 

Monitor in real-time the ad performances and analyze patterns of engagements. 

Detect odd spikes in impressions, click-throughs, and conversions that may indicate fraudulent behavior. 

Cross-validate the data from various demand-side platforms (DSPs) to spot any anomalies. 

Conclusion 

CTV ad fraud is becoming one of the most notable threats to advertisers, with frequency capping violations, brand safety threats, and viewability issues being some of the prominent ones. Its impacts can extend beyond wasted ad spend; it distorts performance metrics, undermines trustworthiness, and lessens the return on investment 

To fight CTV ad fraud effectively, advertisers must install sophisticated detection technologies, ensure transparency in ad placement, closely follow campaigns, and leverage first-party data for targeting. Brands can defend their ad spend and ensure their CTV campaigns yield tangible results if they take a proactive approach and invest in fraud prevention solutions such as Valid8 from mFilterIt. 

As CTV advertising continues to evolve, staying one step ahead of scammers is paramount to drive digital ad campaign performance. In addition to upping the ante on campaign effectiveness, investment in brand safety and anti-fraud initiatives would enhance both safety and trust in the advertising ecosystem.