Book description
From the author of When We Cease to Understand the World: a dazzling, kaleidoscopic book about the destructive chaos lurking in the history of computing and AI'Monstrously good... Reads like a dark foundation myth about modern technology but told with the pace of a thriller' Mark HaddonJohn von Neumann was a titan of science. A Hungarian wunderkind who revolutionized every field he touched, his mathematical powers were so exceptional that Hans Bethe - a Nobel Prize-winning physicist - thought he might represent the next step in human evolution.After seeking the foundations of mathematics during his youth in Germany, von Neumann emigrated to the United States, where he became entangled in the power games of the Cold War; he designed the world's first programmable computer, invented game theory, pioneered AI and digital life, and helped create the atomic bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He was the darling of the military industrial complex, but when illness unmoored his mind, his work pushed further into areas beyond human comprehension and control.The MANIAC places von Neumann at the center of a literary triptych about the dark foundations of our modern world and the nascent era of AI. It begins with Paul Ehrenfest, an Austrian physicist and close friend of Einstein, who fell into despair when he saw science and technology become tyrannical forces; it ends a hundred years later, in the showdown between the South Korean Go Master, Lee Sedol, and the AI program AlphaGo.Braiding fact with fiction, Benjamín Labatut takes us on a journey to the frontiers of rational thought, where invention outpaces human understanding and offers godlike power, but takes us to the brink of Armageddon.
Frenzy
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions.
Lord Theus
ListenBook is a game-changer – it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. ListenBook is packed with useful features. It’s the best audiobook app I’ve used. This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve.
Bazooka Har-de-har
ListenBook's basic audio filters allow me to fine-tune the audio playback to suit my preferences. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits – truly impressive. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a major convenience during road trips. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I consume audiobooks. I can cover more ground while maintaining comprehension.
Star Killer
Audiobooks on this app have expanded my horizons and introduced me to new ideas. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
Scarlet Mary
This app is not just about convenience – it's a gateway to new horizons of knowledge. ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Audiobook immersion made simple – this app's ease of use is commendable.
VPR
I can't believe I waited this long to discover the joy of audiobooks through this app. Book groups keep my related titles together for a cohesive listening experience. A thoughtful feature! Smooth playback and great sound quality. ListenBook is my new favorite app! I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Alpha
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats means I can now enjoy all my favorite audiobooks in one place. Thanks to ListenBook's binaural audio processing, my extended listening sessions are fatigue-free. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly improved the audio quality of my recordings. A serviceable audiobook that met basic expectations. The narration was clear if somewhat unremarkable, and the production quality was standard without any noticeable technical issues. It kept me moderately engaged during workouts but didn't leave a lasting impression.
Santa's Little Helper
With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. This app has become my go-to for audiobooks, adding a layer of convenience and enjoyment to my days. This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
Fire Feline
This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it the perfect companion for any audiobook lover. 📱 Turning my phone into a portal of endless stories – this app is pure magic! 📚✨ Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer.
Tall Honey
The app's stability and reliability make it my go-to choice for audiobooks. With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for enjoying clear audio in any environment. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldn’t call it unforgettable.
Congo Wire
🚶♀️🎧 Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks – pure bliss! 🏞️📚 ListenBook has rekindled my love for audiobooks. The app's interface is beautiful and user-friendly.
Natural Mess
🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fun way to experiment with the audiobook experience.
Flame OUT
The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. ListenBook's compatibility with a wide array of audio formats makes it my ultimate audiobook companion. I've never experienced such a smooth audiobook player. The playback is seamless.
Brick Mooch
No more hassle with converting files – ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. This app has made waiting in lines and queues an opportunity for exploration and enjoyment. 🏃♂️📚 I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. 📱📖 The compatibility with Apple Watch is a huge plus. I can control my audiobooks from my wrist!
Nutmeg
ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to share the joy of captivating stories with friends and family.
Willow Dragon
🧘♀️☕ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! 🍵📖 Download options are plenty – I can get my audiobooks from various sources hassle-free. Supports extensive playlists and bookmarks. Very user-friendly. The statistics tracking is a nice touch. ListenBook helps me keep track of my audiobook habits.
Fast FLAK
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into every nook and cranny of my day. 🚗📖 Beating traffic blues with engaging audiobooks – driving has never been this fun! 🚗🎧 I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app! ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
Vermilion
Audiobooks have become my companions during long hours of household chores. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. Tone adjustment adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I'm hooked! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature. Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality.
Saint La-Z-Boy
ListenBook's dedication to providing a top-quality audio player is evident in every aspect of the app. I love the auto-rewind feature after interruptions. No more searching for where I left off! Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly. The narrator's voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and utterly pleasant to listen to for hours. They handled complex sentences with ease, making even dense material accessible. I never had to rewind because I missed something due to unclear delivery. Perfection! This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
VenusLion
I can't believe how much more productive I am – I'm learning and growing while multitasking! I can't get enough of this app's easy navigation and quick access to chapters and playback controls. 🎧 Elevating my reading experience – this app's intuitive controls and organization features make audiobook enjoyment effortless. 📱📖 🚶♀️📱 I'm exploring new worlds while on the move, all thanks to this app's seamless functionality. 🏞️📚 The voice boost feature is amazing. It makes every word crystal clear.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience