eel

I took a long sabbatical for part of 2024 and all of 2025. When I left the industry, coding with AI tools was not yet mainstream, particularly at the big tech company where I worked.

I am now looking to step back into a senior software engineer role, but the industry has evolved. What are some things I should know or resources I should review to get up to speed with the latest AI enhanced ways of building software? I'm interested in preparing for both real-world and interview scenarios.

I am currently in the worst customer support situation I have ever been in with the Google Store. I ordered a gift for a friend, but Google sent me the wrong item. Google Support has acknowledged the wrong item was sent but in 3 days of back-and-forth communication, they have refused to refund me or ship a replacement. Both items are under $200.

If it were any other company, I would feel justified going to my credit card company and disputing the charge. However, I understand that if I initiate a chargeback, Google could terminate my account, so they have all the leverage in this interaction. I fully rely on my Google account for phone service (Pixel phone with Fi), email service (Gmail), documents/spreadsheets, photos, maps, and likely other items that are not coming to mind.

This event has made me realize that I've put too much of my life in one provider, and I need to switch. What alternatives does HN use for various Google services?