Tech Life

Yashna Lekai, a hardware engineer at the UK's National Quantum Computing Centre, dives deep into the transformative world of quantum computing. She discusses its revolutionary potential across diverse fields, from particle physics to logistics. The episode explores how quantum technology tackles data challenges and enhances AI's capabilities. Yashna also sheds light on advancements in AI voice technology, focusing on inclusivity in accents. Listeners are treated to fascinating insights on future data transmission technologies and the impact of all-photonic networks.

This week on Tech Life, we speak to the company behind an AI safe driving device that's fitted to thousands of delivery vans and fleet vehicles around the world. Using cameras and an onboard AI system, it assesses how safely a vehicle is being driven. And it warns both the driver, and their manager, if it spots a serious safety risk inside or outside the vehicle.Also this week, we find out about cargo drones parachuting humanitarian aid into parts of central Africa. And what can children tell us about AI ?We enjoy reading your messages about Tech Life. Please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.You can use the same contact details to send us any questions you've ever wanted to have answered about quantum computers. We're hoping to gather up your questions and ask an expert about quantum computing for a future episode.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: A photo taken inside a car of the road ahead and other road traffic outside. Credit: egon69/Getty Images

Curtis Lingvist, President and CEO of ICANN, and Jimmy Wales, co-founder of Wikipedia, discuss the future of the internet amid rising concerns about government control and fragmented access. They explore the delicate balance between decentralized collaboration and the risks of oversight. Lingvist emphasizes the importance of public feedback as key decisions loom, while Wales shares insights on Wikipedia's growth and the challenges of machine translation for smaller languages. The episode also showcases a young inventor tackling air pollution with an innovative dust detector.

In this engaging conversation, Jason Kennedy, co-founder of Skyrol, delves into the revolutionary concept of digital twin technology and its potential to reshape urban planning and sustainability. He explains how virtual city models can simulate human interactions and guide infrastructure decisions. The podcast also features inspiring twin sisters discussing their award-winning carbon capture system and highlights advancements in cube satellite technology for environmental monitoring. Together, these topics paint a vivid picture of innovation driving eco-friendly solutions.

This week on Tech Life, we're looking at the problems caused by illegal gold mining in Ghana. We'll hear how drones, AI and GPS trackers are being used to tackle the trade.Also this week, Meta goes to court as it battles ads for so-called Nudifying apps. Is "I don't know" the solution to AI chatbot hallucinations ? And the pay-as-you-cook stove that's winning awards and improving health in Africa.We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: A photo of two gold miners in Ghana. Credit: Christian Thompson/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock

In this engaging discussion, Adrian Jackson, Director of Research at the EPCC, uncovers the compelling world of supercomputers and their transformative role in research and healthcare. Desmond Wheatley, President and CEO of Beam Global, shares insights about Beam Well, a game-changing solar technology that provides electricity and clean water in disaster zones. They also delve into China's rapid electric vehicle shift, exploring groundbreaking advancements and how these innovations compare globally, setting a stage for a sustainable tech future.

What happens when a company we trust with our most personal data gets into financial trouble ? We hear from a woman who trusted a US company with her genetic information.Also on Tech Life this week, will there be enough electricity for the demands of artificial intelligence ? The International Energy Agency tells us about the challenges of powering the AI boom. And we find out how to grow an island in The Maldives. The tech involved could protect low-lying territories from erosion and rising sea levels.We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: A scientist holds a DNA sample with the results on a computer screen in a laboratory. Credit: Westend61/Getty Images

This week we're looking at a growing digital industry which allows people to interact - in a way - with the likeness or the voice of someone they care about who has passed away. It's not science fiction, and it does involve AI chatbots.Also on Tech Life this week, we'll be finding out about two tech solutions to the problem of food which goes to waste. Tech Life's Alasdair Keane explores the challenge of making a Formula 1 racing car more eco friendly. And what is digital art ?We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Graham Fraser Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: An illustration of a human hand reaching toward the unknown. Science fiction becoming reality. Credit: Yana Iskayeva/Getty Images

Guests Steve Rowan, Vice President at the European Patent Office, and Shez Partovi, Chief Innovation Officer at Philips, dive into the world of patents and AI in healthcare. Rowan discusses the evolution of patents and their role in innovation, while Partovi shares insights from Philips on how AI is transforming patient care. They explore the challenges of trust in AI integration and highlight technological advancements, including battery technology and the latest AI trends shaping the future of healthcare and beyond.

Meg Davis, a Professor of Digital Health and Human Rights, discusses a groundbreaking study revealing the increasing online abuse faced by marginalized groups, particularly the LGBTQ community. She shares insights from Vietnamese activist Phong, shedding light on their struggles with digital exclusion. Meanwhile, Daniel Kweku-Murki from Zipline Ghana explains how drone technology is transforming medical supply deliveries in remote areas, showcasing innovation amidst challenges such as foreign aid cuts.