I have spent the majority of my life thus far immersed in the ever-evolving world of technology, yet I hold a deep appreciation for the simpler, slower-paced days of the past. If you’re someone who treasures nostalgia, who remembers the satisfying click of a rotary phone or the thrill of driving a car with a manual transmission, then we’re kindred spirits.

I’m a vintage Macintosh computer collector, a hobby that keeps me connected to the days when Apple was more than just a mobile device company—it was a pioneer of innovation and creativity. There’s something magical about those old machines, with their chunky designs and whirring hard drives, that reminds me of a time when technology felt personal and approachable.

In recent years, I’ve been captivated by the rise of artificial intelligence and the power of running large language models. It’s a fascinating space, one that I’ve been watching closely for the past couple of years. The potential of this technology is staggering—it can amplify creativity, solve complex problems, and even simulate human-like interactions. Yet, as I marvel at its possibilities, I can’t help but feel a sense of caution.

I’m both excited and skeptical about the future AI promises. On one hand, I see its potential to revolutionize how we work, learn, and connect. On the other, I worry about the human connections we risk losing along the way. An AI can simulate a good friend, always there to listen and respond, but it can never truly replicate the warmth of a real conversation or the comfort of a shared laugh.

I believe the key to navigating this new era lies in balance. Instead of fearing AI as a replacement, we should see it as a tool—a way to enhance our abilities, not diminish them. It’s about leveraging this technology thoughtfully, ensuring it serves us rather than defines us. This delicate interplay between progress and preservation is a theme I plan to explore in my future books, blending my love for technology with a heartfelt plea to safeguard the human connections that make life meaningful.

About Alaric Preston