Google Chrome’s Quest to Kill the URL

Driven by security concerns, a desire to curb fraudulent sites and phishing attempts, Google Chrome’s usable security lead Emily Stark and her team aim to rework how the browser presents web addresses. Their goal includes the removal of long and complicated URLs—and two projects are currently underway. First, the just-launched TrickURI will help developers confirm URL accuracy. Second, Stark’s team is developing an alert system …

Kickstarter’s Invaluable Presence at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival

From nine films in the official roster to a lodge that welcomes queer filmmakers and more

When considering the various ways Kickstarter has changed people’s lives, one doesn’t necessarily think of the Sundance Film Festival first. And yet, not only are there nine Kickstarter-funded films in the 2019 Sundance roster (selected from a record-breaking 14,259 submissions), altogether there have been 123 films propelled from the crowdfunding platform to the prestigious festival (itself one of the most notable launchpads in cinema) since 2011. Moreover, the film division of …

Premiere: “Ngwa” by Blick Bassy

Bassa vocals and a stunning, narrative-driven music video dedicated to anti-colonial leader Ruben Um Nyobé

An ode to Ruben Um Nyobé, the anti-colonialist leader of the Popular Union of Cameroon, Blick Bassy’s latest track grapples with the telling of a historic tale. Sung in Bassa, Bassy’s ancestral language, “Ngwa” reclaims an important moment for Cameroon and does so with the utmost beauty and honesty. As the narrative (usually told and taught from the opposing, French perspective) unfolds amidst the spectacular natural landscapes of …