Fake Tech

There’s fake news, fake science, and now, “fake tech”. Fake tech is a term that came to mind while reading about the augmented reality startup Magic Leap. The company has raised $1.4 billion based on videos created to demo its technology. But new information has surfaced that indicates these videos were created using special effects, simulated by a New Zealand company that specializes in such things. While it’s not clear how real the company’s technology is, you could describe these simulated presentations as fake.

Then there’s Theranos, the health technology company that raised hundreds of millions of dollars for its fingerstick and microfluidics technologies that promised to revolutionize blood testing. The company’s value was as high as $9 billion before it was discovered that much of its technology was more wishful thinking than real. Apparently, its charismatic leader was able to persuade a number of luminaries to serve on its board while others, including Walgreen’s, made huge investments based on fake evidence or no evidence at all.

Because technology is often complicated and overwhelming to those without science or engineering training, potential customers and investors are not equipped to make knowledgeable assessments and therefore follow the crowd of believers, not wanting to be left behind.

But as many of us working in Silicon Valley know, there’s a propensity for entrepreneurs to take on tasks that may seem insurmountable, or even impossible, that can lead to real innovation and breakthroughs. Along the way, with the need to attract investment, employees and customers, it’s easy for the promises to get ahead of the reality. People want to believe and can easily fall prey to those leaders who may be better at promoting than the actual science.

In the case of Theranos and Magic Leap, there were early warning signs, such as the companies’ refusal to provide real demos. In both cases, the truth came out when former employees came forward with their stories. In the case of Theranos, an intensive investigation by the WSJ did much to undermine the company’s credibility.

I’ve also experienced fake tech on Indiegogo and Kickstarter. There are products described with seemingly impossible claims that can’t be verified by the host sites. So, anyone with a clever idea and a simulated video can raise money proposing an idea that’s impossible to do. Some may know it’s impossible but many don’t know what they don’t know and believe it can be accomplished with enough money.

In addition to these, there are more nuanced examples of fake tech practiced by major companies that rely on exaggerated claims to garner publicity and boost their stock. While perhaps not completely fake, they are a lot less than what they seem to be.

Uber claimed they were beginning to use driverless cars in Pittsburgh when, in fact, they were starting to test the cars with a professional driver at the wheel. Amazon announced last year they were going to begin delivery of packages using drones, yet it will be years away.

In these cases, the press jumped on these stories, encouraged by the companies’ professional PR people, skilled at creating headlines out of bits of truth, and playing to the strengths and weakness of gullible reporters. While perhaps not factually inaccurate, the results were closer to almost-fake tech.

What fuels fake tech is what fuels fake news — the need to create headlines that result in clicks, eyeballs and hence, dollars. The need to get above the noise and stand out in some way. Too often, there are reporters not trained in science or technology that fall for these stories without a critical eye. They too want to believe and, as a result, promote a story without understanding the nuances behind it.

What’s the solution? Good reporting by trained journalists that understand basic science. Reporters that have a skeptical eye who understand they can’t accept all they are told. The need to assess claims using industry experts without financial ties to the company or its investors. Reliance on industry analysts who have seen and heard it all before and are not taken in by unsubstantiated claims.

Published by

Phil Baker

Phil Baker is a product development expert, author, and journalist covering consumer technology. He is the co-author with Neil Young of the forthcoming book, “To Feel the Music,” and the author of “From Concept to Consumer.” He’s a former columnist for the San Diego Transcript, and founder of Techsperts, Inc. You can follow him at www.bakerontech.com.

177 thoughts on “Fake Tech”

  1. “What’s the solution?”

    You offered the solutions yourself. Do your own work, your own research, and do not depend on analysts, journalists, celebrities, marketers, and fortune tellers to fill that function for you.

    “One born every minute…” – It’s as old as investing.

  2. I would think that a surefire cure for fake tech would be real jail terms. But nowadays a tech swindler is about as likely to do time as a bankster.

  3. I’m not ready to write off Magic Leap yet. Too many credible people have claimed to see demos that were mind blowing. Of course, shrinking the tech in both size and cost may be something that a startup can’t accomplish before running out of cash.

  4. “Investors are not equipped to make knowledgeable assessments”

    Any investor who puts his money into something, without consulting those who do have science or engineering training, is a dumb investor.

  5. I agree, but doesn’t tech in particular have a certain history with such things? How is this substantively different from vaporware?

    Joe

    1. The difference is that vaporware was often (though certainly not exclusively) used by established companies to stifle demand for competing products.

  6. I think the difference here between today’s fake tech and traditional vaporware is that the latter generally does not attract hundreds of millions of dollars in blind investments. Both get plenty of press attention and hype, but vaporware tends to vanish pretty quickly, whereas companies like Theranos and Magic Leap seem to almost cross the line into fraud by taking in so much investment capital and can do so for years.

  7. It’s very hard to find independent experts. VC (or just plain Corp) money dwarfs what’s available in academia, journalism and government. So not only are there few people with a reason to burst bubbles (what millions are there to be made by debunking lies ?), but these few are hard-pressed to find objective sources a 20k grant to buy a scientist is a drop in the sea for well-funded firms, there are only that many scientists).
    One level up from tech is science, and even there, consensus theories are being defeated by interest groups with an agenda.

    1. They should gamify debunking a fake tech experience. If you discovered a tech lie – receive a fake , strikethrough, money. Worst comes to worst – they’ll make a sci-fi movie out of fake tech.

    2. There’s no question there are politics, agenda’s, and yes, priesthoods in the sciences. Fortunately it’s self correcting. Science is driven by truth. The reward system ultimately destroys bad science and rewards good science. The arbiter? Experimental facts. You can’t oppose nature and win.

      The unfortunate thing is that it takes time. Aristotle and Pythagoras, great as they were, did not only advance the human condition, but unfortunately, held it back due to their followers zealous defense of their mistakes.

  8. CandyMail.org – это сервис анонимной электронной почты, который предоставляет пользователю возможность отправлять и получать сообщения без раскрытия личности.

  9. Thanks for posting. I really enjoyed reading it, especially because it addressed my problem. It helped me a lot and I hope it will help others too.

  10. Great beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your web site, how could i subscribe for a blog site? The account helped me a acceptable deal. I had been a little bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear concept

  11. I feel this is among the such a lot vital info for me.
    And i am happy reading your article. But want to observation on some general
    issues, The website style is great, the articles is in reality excellent : D.
    Just right activity, cheers

  12. Howdy I am so thrilled I found your blog, I really found
    you by mistake, while I was researching on Aol for something else, Nonetheless I am here now and would
    just like to say thank you for a fantastic post and a all
    round enjoyable blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read it all at the minute but I have book-marked it and also added in your RSS
    feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read much more, Please do keep up
    the awesome job.

  13. I would like to thank you for the efforts you have put in penning this site.

    I’m hoping to check out the same high-grade blog posts from you in the
    future as well. In truth, your creative writing abilities has
    encouraged me to get my own, personal site now 😉

  14. ラブドール 性文化における州間のコントラストを念頭に置くためのトップ6のダッチワイフのセキュリティのヒントシリコーンのダッチワイフについてどのくらい考えますか?ダッチワイフがタブーではなくなった5つの理由

  15. Boostaro increases blood flow to the reproductive organs, leading to stronger and more vibrant erections. It provides a powerful boost that can make you feel like you’ve unlocked the secret to firm erections

  16. Neotonics is an essential probiotic supplement that works to support the microbiome in the gut and also works as an anti-aging formula. The formula targets the cause of the aging of the skin.

  17. Gorilla Flow is a non-toxic supplement that was developed by experts to boost prostate health for men. It’s a blend of all-natural nutrients, including Pumpkin Seed Extract Stinging Nettle Extract, Gorilla Cherry and Saw Palmetto, Boron, and Lycopene.

  18. FitSpresso stands out as a remarkable dietary supplement designed to facilitate effective weight loss. Its unique blend incorporates a selection of natural elements including green tea extract, milk thistle, and other components with presumed weight loss benefits.

  19. BioFit is an all-natural supplement that is known to enhance and balance good bacteria in the gut area. To lose weight, you need to have a balanced hormones and body processes. Many times, people struggle with weight loss because their gut health has issues.

  20. Kerassentials are natural skin care products with ingredients such as vitamins and plants that help support good health and prevent the appearance of aging skin. They’re also 100% natural and safe to use. The manufacturer states that the product has no negative side effects and is safe to take on a daily basis.

  21. GlucoBerry is one of the biggest all-natural dietary and biggest scientific breakthrough formulas ever in the health industry today. This is all because of its amazing high-quality cutting-edge formula that helps treat high blood sugar levels very naturally and effectively.

  22. TerraCalm is an antifungal mineral clay that may support the health of your toenails. It is for those who struggle with brittle, weak, and discoloured nails. It has a unique blend of natural ingredients that may work to nourish and strengthen your toenails.

  23. EyeFortin is a natural vision support formula crafted with a blend of plant-based compounds and essential minerals. It aims to enhance vision clarity, focus, and moisture balance.

  24. Erec Prime is a cutting-edge male enhancement formula with high quality raw ingredients designed to enhance erection quality and duration, providing increased stamina and a heightened libido.

  25. Amiclear is a dietary supplement designed to support healthy blood sugar levels and assist with glucose metabolism. It contains eight proprietary blends of ingredients that have been clinically proven to be effective.

  26. Puravive introduced an innovative approach to weight loss and management that set it apart from other supplements. It enhances the production and storage of brown fat in the body, a stark contrast to the unhealthy white fat that contributes to obesity.

  27. Neurodrine is a fantastic dietary supplement that protects your mind and improves memory performance. It can help you improve your focus and concentration.

  28. The Quietum Plus supplement promotes healthy ears, enables clearer hearing, and combats tinnitus by utilizing only the purest natural ingredients. Supplements are widely used for various reasons, including boosting energy, lowering blood pressure, and boosting metabolism.

  29. SynoGut is an all-natural dietary supplement that is designed to support the health of your digestive system, keeping you energized and active.

  30. With its all-natural ingredients and impressive results, Aizen Power supplement is quickly becoming a popular choice for anyone looking for an effective solution for improve sexual health with this revolutionary treatment.

  31. Introducing FlowForce Max, a solution designed with a single purpose: to provide men with an affordable and safe way to address BPH and other prostate concerns. Unlike many costly supplements or those with risky stimulants, we’ve crafted FlowForce Max with your well-being in mind. Don’t compromise your health or budget – choose FlowForce Max for effective prostate support today!

  32. Glucofort Blood Sugar Support is an all-natural dietary formula that works to support healthy blood sugar levels. It also supports glucose metabolism. According to the manufacturer, this supplement can help users keep their blood sugar levels healthy and within a normal range with herbs, vitamins, plant extracts, and other natural ingredients.

  33. TropiSlim is a unique dietary supplement designed to address specific health concerns, primarily focusing on weight management and related issues in women, particularly those over the age of 40.

  34. t’s Time To Say Goodbye To All Your Bedroom Troubles And Enjoy The Ultimate Satisfaction And Give Her The Leg-shaking Orgasms. The Endopeak Is Your True Partner To Build Those Monster Powers In Your Manhood You Ever Craved For..

  35. Metabo Flex is a nutritional formula that enhances metabolic flexibility by awakening the calorie-burning switch in the body. The supplement is designed to target the underlying causes of stubborn weight gain utilizing a special “miracle plant” from Cambodia that can melt fat 24/7.

  36. Claritox Pro™ is a natural dietary supplement that is formulated to support brain health and promote a healthy balance system to prevent dizziness, risk injuries, and disability. This formulation is made using naturally sourced and effective ingredients that are mixed in the right way and in the right amounts to deliver effective results.

  37. Nervogen Pro, A Cutting-Edge Supplement Dedicated To Enhancing Nerve Health And Providing Natural Relief From Discomfort. Our Mission Is To Empower You To Lead A Life Free From The Limitations Of Nerve-Related Challenges. With A Focus On Premium Ingredients And Scientific Expertise.

  38. Impressive work! The article is both informative and well-articulated. Have you considered adding more visuals in your future articles? It could enhance the overall reader experience.

  39. My developer is trying to persuade me to move to .net from PHP.
    I have always disliked the idea because of the costs. But he’s tryiong none the less.
    I’ve been using Movable-type on numerous websites for about a year and am anxious about
    switching to another platform. I have heard good things about blogengine.net.
    Is there a way I can transfer all my wordpress
    posts into it? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

  40. You’re so awesome! I don’t believe I have read a single thing like that before. So great to find someone with some original thoughts on this topic. Really.. thank you for starting this up. This website is something that is needed on the internet, someone with a little originality!

  41. ProDentim is an innovative dental health supplement that boasts of a unique blend of 3.5 billion probiotics and essential nutrients, all of which have been clinically proven to support the health of teeth and gums.

  42. LeanBiome is a company that specializes in providing its customers with high-quality dietary supplements that promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. One of their key products is the lean bacteria species capsules, which contain nine clinically-researched living organisms that work together to support a healthy gut microbiome. However, it is important to note that these bacteria need to stay alive in order to be effective. This is where LeanBiome’s use of cutting-edge DRcaps capsules comes into play.

  43. I’m often to blogging and i really appreciate your content. The article has actually peaks my interest. I’m going to bookmark your web site and maintain checking for brand spanking new information.

  44. I am absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the incredible Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic! This powdered weight loss formula is like no other, featuring a powerful blend of eight natural ingredients that are scientifically linked to fat burning, weight management, and overall weight loss. Just imagine the possibilities! With Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic, you have the opportunity to finally achieve your weight loss goals and transform your body into the best version of yourself.

  45. I am absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the incredible Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic! This powdered weight loss formula is like no other, featuring a powerful blend of eight natural ingredients that are scientifically linked to fat burning, weight management, and overall weight loss. Just imagine the possibilities! With Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic, you have the opportunity to finally achieve your weight loss goals and transform your body into the best version of yourself.

  46. What makes Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic even more unique is its inspiration from the beautiful Indonesian island of Sumatra. This supplement incorporates ingredients that are indigenous to this stunning island, including the exotic blue spirulina. How amazing is that? By harnessing the power of these rare and natural ingredients, Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic provides you with a weight loss solution that is both effective and enchanting.

  47. Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic takes pride in its manufacturing process, ensuring that every batch is produced in FDA-approved and GMP-certified facilities. This means that each and every bottle of Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic meets the highest standards of quality and safety. You can trust that you are getting a product that has undergone strict quality control measures and is backed by scientific research.

  48. Prostadine is an all-natural supplement designed to support prostate health and reduce the risk of developing an enlarged prostate. Unlike prescription drugs, Prostadine uses all-natural ingredients instead of dangerous drugs with nasty side effects.

  49. What makes Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic even more unique is its inspiration from the beautiful Indonesian island of Sumatra. This supplement incorporates ingredients that are indigenous to this stunning island, including the exotic blue spirulina. How amazing is that? By harnessing the power of these rare and natural ingredients, Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic provides you with a weight loss solution that is both effective and enchanting.

  50. One of the key benefits of GlucoTrust is that it increases insulin response, production, and sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels in the body, and when this process is disrupted, it can lead to a range of health problems. GlucoTrust provides the body with essential nutrients that help to improve insulin function, which in turn helps to regulate blood sugar levels more effectively.

  51. Sugar Defender’s prowess in managing blood sugar is deeply rooted in its exceptional blend of natural ingredients, each playing a distinct role that contributes to the overall success of the supplement. Here are some noteworthy positive impacts of the Sugar Defender Ingredients blend:

  52. Alpilean is a natural dietary formula that has been proven to provide multiple health benefits. In order to experience these benefits, it is important to follow the recommended usage instructions. Unlike other supplements, Alpilean delivers on its promises and delivers results.

  53. Red Boost is a formula that helps a man improve his sexual performance. It is made from natural ingredients and helps a man have more energy for sex. Try Red Boost to have a better experience!

  54. Fluxactive is a comprehensive dietary supplement made up of herbal extracts. This supplement is high in nutrients, which can properly nourish your body and significantly improve prostate health. Some of these ingredients have even been shown to lower the risk of prostate cancer.

  55. Sugar Defender’s prowess in managing blood sugar is deeply rooted in its exceptional blend of natural ingredients, each playing a distinct role that contributes to the overall success of the supplement. Here are some noteworthy positive impacts of the Sugar Defender Ingredients blend:

  56. Wow, this blog is like a rocket launching into the galaxy of wonder! The thrilling content here is a thrilling for the mind, sparking curiosity at every turn. Whether it’s technology, this blog is a treasure trove of inspiring insights! #MindBlown Dive into this thrilling experience of discovery and let your thoughts fly! ✨ Don’t just read, experience the thrill! #BeyondTheOrdinary Your brain will thank you for this thrilling joyride through the dimensions of endless wonder! ✨

  57. Sugar Defender introduces a meticulously curated ensemble of eight key ingredients, each strategically selected to champion healthy blood sugar levels and facilitate weight loss. These ingredients collaborate to enhance the supplement’s effectiveness through diverse mechanisms, including energy elevation, fat burning, and metabolism stimulation, all while providing direct support for maintaining healthy blood glucose levels. Here is an insightful overview of each ingredient along with its purported functionality according to the manufacturer:

  58. Please let me know if you’re looking for a author for your blog.
    You have some really great articles and I think I would be
    a good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off,
    I’d really like to write some content for your blog in exchange for a link
    back to mine. Please send me an email if interested. Cheers!

  59. Hello there, I think your blog could possibly be having web browser compatibility issues.
    When I look at your web site in Safari, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it’s got some overlapping issues.
    I merely wanted to provide you with a quick heads up!
    Apart from that, fantastic website!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *