Early, subtle indications of progress sought by futurists, investors, and ethicists to identify or validate trends. Seen on their own, weak signals may not appear relevant, but can show patterns and directionality when analyzed through a particular lens. Fundamental research breakthroughs (like initial OpenAI GPT models) and early adoption of apps or technologies (like Facebook's rollout in universities in the early 2000s) are examples of weak signals.