Nadia.xyz – GoDaddy customer – (United States)
The .xyz community is home to many accomplished individuals using .xyz to highlight their creative work, passions, and career experiences. Successful entrepreneur Matt Gray uses MattGray.xyz to promote his coaching and training services. Political satirist Bassem Youssef uses BassemYoussef.xyz to share his media appearances, upcoming shows, and press clippings. Australia-based artist Serwah Attafuah uses Serwah.xyz to showcase her digital art and NFT creations. In this week’s #WebsiteWednesday, we’ll introduce you to an accomplished open source software writer and researcher who shares her work on a personal website with a memorable “first name” .xyz domain: Nadia.xyz.
Nadia.xyz is the online home of writer and researcher Nadia Asparouhova (previously Nadia Eghbal). Her work and research center around open source software and its impact on the social and political aspects of the tech industry, bringing attention to the hidden labor behind our digital infrastructure. Nadia’s book, titled “Working in Public: The Making and Maintenance of Open Source Software,”1 provides an exploration of the evolution of open source software development. Open source software development is the collaborative process of creating computer programs where the source code is openly accessible to everyone. The book features interviews with developers and a study of popular online platforms. In May 2023, Nadia wrote a piece for Wired titled “Remembering GitHub’s Office, a Monument to Tech Culture.”2 The article shares her firsthand perspective of GitHub’s former San Francisco office, and its representation of tech culture. Nadia spent two years working for GitHub in Developer Experience. As she details on her LinkedIn profile, she “built programs, product and partnerships to better support open source developers on the platform.”
Nadia’s involvement in improving the open source developer experience, both independently and while working for GitHub, led her to publish the book “Roads and Bridges: The Unseen Labor Behind Our Digital Infrastructure” in 2016.3 Nadia’s book explores the challenges facing digital infrastructure, and how they can be addressed. As she shares on her Projects page in reference to the book, “my early work argued that open source code is a form of public infrastructure that requires maintenance.”
Nadia uses Nadia.xyz to showcase her multifaceted contributions to the tech industry and beyond. You can visit her Projects page to read about some of her latest projects. Check out “Microgrants,” where Nadia details how she created Helium Grants, a “no-strings-attached” microgrants program providing awards of $1K to $5K to individuals. Nadia documented her process and insights about this two-year experiment, and compiled resources designed to inspire others to start their own microgrant programs. Nadia shares a link to a dedicated website about the Helium Grant for more information.4
Over on the Notes page, Nadia shares various ideas, reactions, and useful insights. These notes cover a wide range of topics, including governance, research culture, ethics, and social dynamics online. While some of these notes have evolved into longer blog posts or projects, most remain unpublished in her personal notes app. Although she stopped updating the page in 2021, visitors can still explore previous years’ notes. She shares that she may consider resuming the practice in the future. In an earlier interview shared on the Kicks Condor blog5, Nadia shares some thoughts pertaining to how she makes use of her website for notes and thoughts, as opposed to other platforms such as Twitter. She states “I like being able to publish my messier, half-formed thoughts, but I get turned off by putting those next to a like count. It feels like the more likes you get, the more you start writing things to get likes, whereas the REALLY weird, unpopular stuff probably won’t get many likes at all.” You can glean more of Nadia’s insights by subscribing to her Monomythical newsletter on publishing platform Substack, where approximately every couple of months she shares thoughts and essays about living life online.
The Nadia.xyz domain is branded with Nadia’s short and memorable first name. On her homepage, Nadia provides her branded email address [email protected] for inquiries. When you have an email address directly associated with your domain name, visitors can use that email address to find your website and have confidence that they’re reaching out to the appropriate contact.
We are excited to have Nadia and her insights on open source software in the .xyz community. You can learn more by following Nadia on Twitter and LinkedIn, and by visiting Nadia.xyz.
1. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54140556-working-in-public
2. https://www.wired.com/story/github-tech-values/
3. https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/32317627
4. https://www.heliumgrant.org/
5. https://www.kickscondor.com/nadia-eghbal/
Optic.xyz – Namecheap customer – (United States)
AI developers are using .xyz domains to showcase their innovations in the field of artificial intelligence. Tech startup Spice.xyz harnesses AI technology to make it easy to access and leverage web3 data. NFT platform Revel.xyz is focused on providing users with a new tool for generating AI-powered animated avatars. AI-backed platform Airstack.xyz is aimed at helping developers to access and utilize cross-chain data. In this week’s #AIMonday, we’ll introduce you to an AI-based startup aimed at safeguarding humanity from AI-generated fake media and counterfeit NFTs: Optic.xyz.
Optic.xyz is the online home of Optic, a tech startup that employs artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle growing concerns such as fake media and counterfeit non-fungible tokens (NFTs). At the forefront of the company’s offerings is the Bias-O-Meter, an innovative solution designed to safeguard humanity from the issue of internet misinformation in the era of generative AI (Gen-AI). The innovative company is founded by former Google Product Director and YouTube Head of Mobile Andrey Doronichev. As reported in March 2022, Optic raised $11 million and began using the funds “toward building out the cost-intensive infrastructure and hiring engineering talent.”1
Authenticity is a crucial concern in the world of NFTs, as it is the foundation upon which trust and value are built. Optic.xyz addresses this challenge by utilizing AI technology to analyze the details of NFTs and verify their uniqueness and origin. This process aims to provide reassurance to artists, creators, and buyers regarding the legitimacy of the digital assets they engage with. In doing so, they may also contribute to safeguarding the credibility of the entire NFT ecosystem.
AI’s strength in NFT authentication comes from its ability to analyze large amounts of data and spot detailed patterns that humans might miss. Its advanced algorithms can quickly process information like metadata, cryptographic signatures, and transaction history, making the distinction between real NFTs and fake or unauthorized copies. This can help build trust and ensure reliability in the fast-growing world of digital art and NFTs. By leveraging AI algorithms, Optic strives to contribute to the prevention of fraud and unauthorized duplication, building trust within the NFT market.
Optic.xyz provides a user-friendly platform that can simplify the authentication process for creators and buyers. Their solutions are designed to help artists submit their NFTs for authentication, and to provide buyers with the capability to verify the authenticity of NFTs they are interested in. This streamlined experience can benefit all stakeholders, fostering the growth and sustainability of the NFT market. Check out Optic’s featured products:
We are inspired by Optic.xyz’s interests in furthering safety and authenticity in AI, and look forward to further developments. You can learn more by following the company on Twitter @optic_xyz and LinkedIn @optic-xyz, and by visiting Optic.xyz.
1. https://www.coindesk.com/business/2022/07/20/ai-based-startup-optic-raises-11m-to-put-the-nf-in-nfts/
2. https://www.aiornot.com/
TransientLabs.xyz – GoDaddy customer – (United States)
Blockchain and smart contract technology innovators aimed at exploring web3’s possibilities are establishing their online homes on .xyz domains. FOX Entertainment’s NFT studio BCL.xyz develops projects for creators and brands new to the web3 landscape. Auditing platform Sherlock.xyz is aimed at keeping your smart contracts bug-free. Generative art platform Tonic.xyz strives to make web3 technology more accessible. In this week’s #BlockchainThursday, we’ll introduce you to an innovative no-code platform designed for creators, projects, and brands in web3: TransientLabs.xyz.
TransientLabs.xyz is the online home of Transient Labs, a creative studio with a no-code solution for creators and brands looking to harness the power of blockchain and smart contract technology. Their no-code solution is called “The Lab,” and it aims to help users build their own web3 projects without requiring extensive coding knowledge. They provide a suite of services, including strategy, creative direction, and custom smart contract development, tailored to the specific needs of creators, brands, and platforms. By offering a user-friendly interface and empowering individuals to unlock the potential of decentralized systems, Transient Labs aims to elevate projects to new levels of success in the ever-evolving web3 landscape.. We last referenced TransientLabs.xyz in our spotlight on SnoopPassport.xyz, an innovative NFT project developed collaboratively by Snoop Dogg and Transient Labs.
If you visit the Transient Labs “Capabilities” page, you can review the platform’s range of web3 services and tooling designed to support and enhance projects in the decentralized space. Their offerings include mint pages, token-gated communities, and assistance building membership tokens with various use cases like exclusive access, voting rights, and loyalty programs. They also provide a service to develop dynamic and interactive NFTs. These NFTs offer unique interactive experiences by changing their state based on external factors like real-world data or events.
Another key aspect of Transient Labs’ services is the development of custom ERC721TL and ERC1155TL smart contracts. These contracts are carefully designed to meet the specific requirements of different projects. Transient Labs tests all smart contracts they develop to help ensure security and optimize gas efficiency.
SnoopPassport.xyz is the online home of TransientLabs.xyz’s collaboration with Snoop Dogg. The exclusive Passport NFT is designed to grant owners ongoing access to behind-the-scenes footage of Snoop Dogg’s latest tour experiences. The intention is to make every Passport NFT owner feel like an honorary member of Snoop’s entourage. As COO Chris Ostoich explained in the press, “Having the opportunity to connect one of the world’s greatest artists to fans in such a creative and engaging way is a great representation of what we’re all about at Transient Labs.”1
Transient Labs also collaborated with digital artist ThankYouX2 on the “State of the Art” project,3 showcasing their capabilities in the web3 space. This project reimagined blockchain technology as a creative medium, going beyond its traditional role as a mere distribution tool. “State of the Art” featured four large-scale paintings, each divided into 400 tiles, resulting in a total of 1600 unique digital artworks, each paired with a physical counterpart.
During the project’s launch, participants received a random assignment of a digital tile corresponding to a section of one of the four paintings. Subsequently, collectors had the opportunity to claim the corresponding physical artwork. Prior to claiming the physical piece, users could engage with the secondary market, purchasing additional tiles adjacent to their existing ones. This allowed participants to merge and expand their ownership.
Transient Labs is co-founded by former aerospace engineer, photographer, and NFT creator Ben Strauss and former automotive and aerospace engineer Marco Peyfuss. We had the opportunity to speak with Director of Operations Daniel Volkov about Transient Labs and their team’s decision to build on .xyz. As Daniel explained,
“We chose .xyz for Transient Labs because it perfectly symbolizes our mission. The XYZ in our domain stands for the limitless possibilities of exploration, innovation, and transformation we aim to bring in the field of technology. We’re glad to see other pioneers in the web3 world recognizing its value too. It’s been an excellent choice for us, aligning seamlessly with our branding and vision. We are excited about the future as we continue to innovate and push boundaries on the .xyz platform.”
We are inspired by the team’s motivation to explore the full potential of blockchain technology and look forward to more innovative and collaborative projects. You can learn more by following the platform on Twitter and by visiting TransientLabs.xyz.
1. https://variety.com/2023/digital/news/snoop-dogg-passport-nft-tour-collectible-1235638886/
2. https://twitter.com/ThankYouX
3. https://www.stateoftheart.world/
LiveRoom.xyz – Namecheap customer – (India)
Developers in the field of AR/VR are leveraging .xyz domains to unlock the full potential of immersive technologies, pioneering groundbreaking platforms that revolutionize user experiences. Tech company Brilliant.xyz showcases Monocle, their wearable augmented reality device. Poland-based digital marketing agency Lune.xyz focuses on the use of interactive, cutting-edge AR and VR technology to connect consumers with products. Browser-based 3D design tool Rooms.xyz envisions compatibility with AR/VR platforms as the technology evolves. In this week’s #WebsiteWednesday, we’ll introduce you to a software developer showcasing their AR solutions: LiveRoom.xyz.
LiveRoom.xyz is the online home of LiveRoom Technologies, a Sri Lanka-based software development company focused on solutions in the innovative fields of Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Computer Vision, and Graphics Solutions. LiveRoom offers services in conceptualizing, designing, and developing customized AR solutions for enterprises, striving to create tailored experiences that meet specific business needs. They leverage the power of AR to address a wide range of industry challenges, such as remote training and assistance, faster turnaround time, and effective skill development. By utilizing AR, LiveRoom aims to help businesses turn these challenges into opportunities for enhanced client satisfaction.
The integration of AR has been recognized for its transformative impact on the retail and e-commerce sector, providing customers with enhanced levels of immersion and personalization. LiveRoom.xyz reports successful deployments of AR solutions in various domains, including ceramics, furniture, and fashion accessories. These implementations have reportedly led to increased sales for vendors and improved satisfaction for clients, potentially contributing to the overall growth of the retail and e-commerce industry.
LiveRoom recognizes the potential of AR in transforming traditional education methods. By utilizing AR-enabled mobile applications, students can visualize 3D diagrams and images, adding a new dimension to their learning experience. This interactive approach can enhance understanding and inject an element of fun into routine textbook learning. LiveRoom is actively researching advanced AR technologies that can be collaboratively used with traditional educational resources, which may further enrich the learning process.
LiveRoom provides a variety of technological services, including Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). The following is included in their menu of available solutions:
LiveRoom strives to incorporate 3D modeling, rendering, animation, and VR application development to help businesses create captivating virtual experiences for their customers. By bringing VR to consumers, companies can unlock new opportunities for engagement and immersive storytelling.
LiveRoom’s computer vision solutions aim to help businesses enhance their capabilities in perceiving and making autonomous decisions in an increasingly intelligent and automated world. The LiveRoom team uses 3D imaging, scanning, reconstruction, deep learning, and AI to help businesses digitize their operations and optimize processes.
LiveRoom offers various aspects of computer graphics, encompassing rendering engine development, shader development, ray tracing, and other intricate areas within the field. Their work extends to applications in computer games and scientific visualizations, showcasing their focus and capabilities in these challenging domains.
LiveRoom.xyz shares some examples of past projects, including their work for fashion tech company Fashion881. LiveRoom worked with Fashion88 to develop an innovative solution that addresses the challenge of fulfilling client expectations in the online fashion industry. By incorporating the “Next Generation Virtual Fitting Room” platform into Fashion 88’s e-commerce solution, customers are now provided with a realistic and engaging experience that simulates the physical shopping journey. Users can create virtual avatars, accurately dressed with different outfits, and receive information about the comfort level of the clothing based on their body measurements. The solution also incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance body shape accuracy and provide valuable insights for retailers and clothing manufacturers.
In June 2022, Achala Weerasooriya transitioned from the role of COO to assume the position of CEO within LiveRoom Technologies. Achala boasts over 10 years in the field of software engineering. His previous experiences include Director of Growth for creative agency Vaag Media and co-founder of Innovera, a Human Resources solutions company. We are inspired by the forward-thinking demonstrated by Achala and his team, and look forward to continued advancements in AR, VR, computer vision, and graphics solutions. You can learn more by following the company on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and visiting LiveRoom.xyz.
1. http://www.fashion88.net/index.html
MadebyAI.xyz – Key-Systems customer – (Germany)
AI-focused pioneers are using .xyz domains to help promote the innovations and possibilities of artificial intelligence. Blockchain-focused AI company AlteredStateMachine.xyz is dedicated to creating a world where the value of AI is directly returned to its contributors, and where AI can be trusted and understood by everyone. AI platform GizaTech.xyz is focused on helping foster accessibility in the field of artificial intelligence. In this week’s #AIMonday, we’ll introduce you to a platform aimed at spotlighting pioneers of new technologies enabled by artificial intelligence: MadebyAI.xyz.
MadebyAI.xyz is a media platform that speaks with creators, founders, and more who are shaping the field of artificial intelligence. As plainly stated on their Instagram bio, MadebyAI.xyz is “an interview magazine that talks to people who make cool things with AI.” MadebyAI.xyz is founded by Benjamin Dehant, a creative in the field of NFTs and virtual reality (VR), and Jonathan Kemper, a technology journalist.
Since launching in December 2022, MadebyAI.xyz shares two interviews every month, as well as a daily curation of high-quality images made using generative AI tools. The interviews are categorized by Creator and Founder. Check out June 2023’s creator interview with Amy Karle. In this interview, Amy, an artist and futurist, explores the intersection of ethics, AI, and art in shaping our future. Amy’s work combines technology and humanistic elements to stimulate contemplation and foster societal transformation. Her artistic focus lies in the integration of AI and biotechnology, investigating the potential consequences of these advancements on humanity while upholding ethical considerations.
June’s founder interview is with Laodis Menard, co-founder of Argil, a no-code platform for training AI models. Laodis, a startup enthusiast, is focused on making AI more accessible to non-technical individuals. He discusses the many features of his platform and his goal of fostering AI to help with creative tasks such as interior decoration, photo storyboarding, and generating investment memos.
Visit the Showcases page to see the latest in generative art. In June, MadebyAI.xyz featured digital artist Astropulse’s generative pixel art, demonstrating “how his Retro Diffusion model enhances the capabilities of Stable Diffusion to create stunning pixel art, speeding up the process for any game designer.”
MadebyAI.xyz encourages contact from the community, whether you want to be considered for an interview, or use the platform to promote your project. You can reach out by visiting the Contact page and filling out the contact form. While there, you can also subscribe to the platform’s newsletter by entering your email address so you won’t miss any new releases. Including contact pages on your website can help improve the user experience by making it simple to get in touch with you.
We spoke with founder Benjamin Dehant about his decision to develop on .xyz. As he explained,
“Opting for a .xyz domain for our blog, we found it reflected our ethos: exploring the unknown aspects of AI innovations, symbolizing our blog’s coordinates in the digital space, and representing our generational identity as Gen Y and Z. It just has that zeitgeist feel we’re after.”
We are inspired by MadebyAI.xyz’s interest in educating the public about AI, giving AI pioneers a platform to share their innovations. You can learn more by following along on Twitter @madebyai_xyz, Instagram @madebyai.xyz, and LinkedIn @madebyai-xyz, and by visiting MadebyAI.xyz.
