Re-interpreting Data - Turning Files into Audio, Images, and Music

Explore the fascinating world of data transformation in this RubyConf 2023 talk by Murray Steele. Discover how to convert various file types into unexpected formats, such as listening to a JPEG, visualizing an executable file, or transforming a ZIP file into an orchestral score. Learn about the process of manipulating WAV file headers to turn any data into audible sound, and delve into similar techniques for BMP and MIDI files. Gain insights into using Ruby to manipulate raw bytes and bits of data while experiencing unique interpretations of familiar files, including hearing a README file, viewing an executable, and listening to the Ruby interpreter itself. This 45-minute presentation offers a creative exploration of data reinterpretation, providing both technical knowledge and unconventional perspectives on file formats and data manipulation.