All articles tagged with #digital era
A BuzzFeed piece curates 37 nostalgic photos from the 2000s, highlighting pre-smartphone routines and era-defining details—from alarm clocks and printed MapQuest directions to VHS tapes, live TV lineups, and bold fashion—showing how everyday life and culture have shifted over the last two decades.
AOL is discontinuing its dial-up internet service after 30 years, marking the end of an era for many Americans who experienced the early days of online connectivity, characterized by the iconic modem sounds. The service, once dominant with over 23 million US subscribers, declined with the rise of faster broadband options and modern web technologies, and will officially shut down in late September, leaving behind a nostalgic chapter in internet history.
Rock band Kiss, known for their iconic makeup and live performances, announced their retirement from live shows but revealed plans to continue as digital avatars. The band debuted their digital avatars during their farewell tour, created by Industrial Light and Magic, and expressed uncertainty about the future direction of their digital era. Pophouse Entertainment, the company responsible for transforming Kiss into digital intellectual property, mentioned possibilities such as concerts, rock operas, musicals, or adventures in metaverses like Roblox or Fortnite. While some may find the concept exciting, others question the appeal of paying to watch digital versions of real artists performing the same songs repeatedly.
Taylor Swift has achieved billionaire status in the music industry, a feat that is rare in an era where artists have lost millions due to digital downloads. Swift's net worth surpassed $1 billion in October, thanks to her successful Eras Tour and the release of her rerecorded albums. She has been able to monetize her talent and ride the tech wave, setting a high standard for other artists to follow. Swift's concert film, "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour," premiered in theaters and brought in $92.8 million on its opening weekend. She has transformed the music industry for female artists and is building a legacy beyond just financial success.
The US Army is using new digital machine tools to produce components for Abrams tanks and automated forges to create 20-foot gun barrels for howitzers at the Watervliet Arsenal, a military base that opened during the War of 1812. The weapons are intended for use in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.