Watch Digits

Digits is a documentary series that explores the evolution and impact of computing and the digital revolution. The series is presented by Derek Muller, an award-winning science communicator known for his popular YouTube channel, Veritasium. Each episode of Digits delves into different aspects of computing, from the earliest inventions that led to modern computers, to the latest cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future. The series covers a wide range of topics, including the history of programming, the rise of social media, the development of artificial intelligence, and the ethics of technology use.

The opening episode, titled “Binary & Bits,” takes viewers back to the earliest days of computing and explores how the invention of binary code made modern computing possible. Muller explains how binary code works and shows how the earliest computers were built using vacuum tubes and other mechanical components. Viewers will also learn about some of the early pioneers of computing, like Alan Turing, and how their work laid the foundation for the digital revolution.

The second episode, “Silicon,” explores how the development of the microchip in the 1960s revolutionized computing and sparked the birth of the modern electronics industry. Muller takes viewers to Silicon Valley, where he visits some of the leading tech companies of today, like Intel and Google, to learn about the latest developments in microchip technology.

In “The Code,” the third episode, Muller examines the history of programming and how it has evolved over the years. Viewers will learn about some of the earliest languages like FORTRAN and BASIC, as well as more modern languages like Python and JavaScript. The episode also explores some of the ethical issues surrounding programming, including the potential impact of algorithms on job displacement and the need for diversity in the tech industry.

The fourth episode, “The Internet,” traces the development of the world wide web and how it has transformed our lives. Muller travels to CERN, the European research organization where the web was invented, to meet some of the pioneers who made it all possible. The episode also explores the impact of social media on our behavior and the ways that we are connected to one another online.

In “Artificial Intelligence,” the fifth episode, Muller investigates the recent breakthroughs in AI and how they are changing the world. He meets with some of the leading researchers in the field and learns about the latest developments in machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing. The episode also explores some of the ethical concerns surrounding AI, including the potential for job displacement and the impact on privacy and autonomy.

The final episode, “The Future,” looks ahead to the next generation of computing technologies and the impact that they will have on our lives. Muller speaks with some of the leading innovators working on emerging technologies like quantum computing, brain-computer interfaces, and nanotechnology. He also discusses the ethical implications of these technologies and the need for responsible innovation.

Overall, Digits is an engaging and informative series that explores the exciting world of computing and its impact on our lives. With stunning visuals, insightful interviews, and witty storytelling, the series is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in the history and future of technology.

Digits is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between October 20, 2016 and on CuriosityStream