Newton Virus

Named after the father of modern mechanics, »Newton Virus« introduces the concept of gravity into the technological realm. Transferred onto any Mac computer via a custom-designed USB flash drive, desktop icons become susceptible to Newton’s invisible force, falling and rolling in accordance with any physical movements applied to the computer.

Historically, computer viruses were designed and used as harmless pranks by their authors to flaunt programming expertise. In contemporary understanding, the very definition of a computer virus is something harmful to your computer, »malware« that infects your system, corrupting data and resulting in billions of dollars’ worth of economic damage every year. »Newton Virus« usurps this understanding, reframing the computer virus as a nondestructive form of artificial life.

Unlike modern viruses, the »Newton Virus« software does not replicate itself, destroy any files, or mail itself out from your computer. Instead, it presents a simple, humorous, digital intervention. Beyond the short-lived diversion it creates, the virus does not attempt to extend its own lifespan. Governed by its own laws, the algorithm follows a quasi-animistic trajectory that emulates the evolution of life: coming into existence, evolving, and ending eventually in death.