Jack Dorsey is back at it, launching innovative apps that catch the attention of tech enthusiasts worldwide. Recently, he introduced a new application called Sun Day, designed specifically to help users monitor their vitamin D intake. The exciting aspect? Dorsey credits artificial intelligence for this rapid development.
Sun Day assesses how long you can bask in the sun without risking a burn. It factors in key elements such as UV index based on your location, cloud cover, sunrise and sunset times, skin tone, and even your clothing. This information can be a game-changer for those, like Dorsey himself, who noted in a recent thread that he doesn’t use sunscreen.
Additionally, the app tracks your time outdoors to estimate your vitamin D absorption using a sophisticated model grounded in scientific research. However, questions linger regarding the accuracy of these calculations.
Future versions of Sun Day promise to include more personalized metrics like height, weight, and even your actual vitamin D blood levels. If you’re curious, you can experiment with the app on iOS via TestFlight or dive into its code on GitHub.
Like his previous “weekend project,” BitChat, Sun Day utilizes Goose, an AI coding assistant from Block, Dorsey’s payments company. Both projects reflect a growing trend Dorsey seems to embrace, known as “vibe coding.”
So, what is vibe coding? This novel approach allows developers to leverage AI assistants to generate and debug code using natural language prompts. The outcome? They get to concentrate on the overall concept of the app rather than getting bogged down by intricate technical details.
Just the previous Sunday, Dorsey unveiled the beta launch of BitChat, a messaging platform that facilitates peer-to-peer communication using Bluetooth mesh networks instead of the internet. It operates without the need for phone numbers, emails, or any permanent identifiers, prioritizing user privacy.
Dorsey explained that “BitChat addresses the need for resilient, private communication that doesn’t depend on centralized infrastructure.” He highlights how it enables direct peer-to-peer messaging within close range, while automatic message relay further extends its effective reach.
Yet, BitChat has faced skepticism from experts. For instance, in a blog post, Supernetworks CEO Alex Radocea pointed to a significant flaw: the app lacks a reliable method to verify users’ identities during conversations.
“In cryptography, details matter,” Radocea wrote. He cautioned that even with a sleek design, fundamental flaws can undermine the app’s security claims. Following this critique, the app’s GitHub page even added a warning about its security status.
While Dorsey’s vibe coding experiment might swiftly roll out functional applications, users should proceed with caution. Risks such as potential security vulnerabilities could overshadow the benefits.
Why is tracking your vitamin D levels important? Vitamin D plays a significant role in maintaining bone health and supporting the immune system. Knowing how much sunlight to get can help you stay healthy.
How can sunlight exposure affect your mood? Studies indicate that exposure to sunlight boosts serotonin production, which can improve your mood and help combat depression.
Is there a safe limit for sun exposure? Experts generally suggest about 15-30 minutes of sun exposure for light-skinned individuals, but this can vary based on skin tone, location, and other factors.
Are there other ways to get vitamin D apart from sunlight? Yes, you can get vitamin D from foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and supplements if needed.
What makes BitChat a different messaging option? BitChat’s unique peer-to-peer technology allows for private conversations offline, which is a fresh alternative to conventional internet-based messaging apps.
In conclusion, while Dorsey’s recent ventures showcase innovative uses of AI in developing apps that can benefit our daily health and communication, it’s crucial to stay informed about their efficacy and security. For more intriguing insights into technology and health, keep exploring content at Moyens I/O.