Tech Life

Ben Lam, the CEO of Colossal Biosciences, shares his vision for de-extinction technology, aiming to bring back animals like the dodo and woolly mammoth. He discusses the ambitious projects and the innovative business model blending conservation with cutting-edge science. In contrast, ethicist Melanie Challenger raises concerns about the moral implications and potential consequences of reviving extinct species. The engaging debate between bold aspirations and ethical dilemmas captivates listeners, highlighting the complexities of modern conservation efforts.

Christian Dawson, Executive Director of the Internet Infrastructure Coalition, discusses the troubling trend of VPN services disappearing from Indian app stores due to recent government regulations. These changes raise critical questions about online privacy and security, particularly for vulnerable populations. Yuval Noah Harari, a prominent historian, shares his thoughts on the potential impacts of AI, framing it within the context of historical technological advances and its implications for creativity and society. Their insights provoke reflection on the balance between innovation and individual rights.

Explore the fascinating world of online fact-checking as Meta shifts its approach on social media. Discover efforts to preserve our digital heritage deep beneath the Arctic, ensuring future generations have access to cultural artifacts. Delve into LinkedIn's battle against fake profiles with innovative verification tools. Plus, learn how digital mapping is evolving from simple navigation to a tool for autonomous technologies, transforming our understanding of geography. This tech-filled discussion unveils the complexities and innovations shaping our digital landscape.

Dive into the vibrant chaos of CES, where over 4,000 exhibitors unveil wild tech innovations. Discover quirky gadgets like an electrically charged spoon that enhances taste. Learn about an innovative sleep lamp that promotes better rest and explores the future of automotive tech with vehicles evolving into sophisticated computing devices. Get excited about the youth-driven push towards sustainable practices and witness how arcade games and robot pets might represent the future of consumer technology!

Want to know what’s in store for the tech world in 2025? Tech Life has got you covered. From AI to cybersecurity, gaming and crypto and beyond, we bring you our predictions for the next 12 months. And we’re not alone. We’re calling on the help of friends of the show and experts around the world – with some familiar voices for regular Tech Life listeners.

This engaging discussion navigates the impact of artificial intelligence on personal relationships and job security. It highlights how women in China are forming emotional bonds with AI chatbots while exploring AI’s role in customer service. The resilience of Cuban game developers battling power outages showcases creativity in the face of adversity. Innovations like AI wearables spark curiosity, alongside a critical look at the wellness industry's shady practices. Finally, predictions for future tech developments leave listeners pondering what's next.

A major car manufacturer has halted its robotaxi project, raising questions about the future of driverless vehicles. The podcast dives into the challenges facing this technology, including public perception and regulatory obstacles. It also discusses AI’s growing influence on job markets and introduces an innovative tool to enhance music discovery while promoting emerging artists. Additionally, alarming issues within the wellness industry are unveiled, shedding light on manipulative practices and the need for accountability.

Dive into the shadowy world of cyber warfare, exploring the blurred lines of ethics and the impacts on critical infrastructure. Discover how AI's role in cybersecurity might be overstated amidst real threats. Shift gears to aerodynamics that are revolutionizing wheelchair racing, helping athletes achieve peak performance. Finally, hear about a gaming star's transition to Hollywood and get insights into the emotional connections that gaming fosters, all while confronting troubling truths about the wellness industry.

Sasha Luccioni is a groundbreaking computer scientist specializing in the environmental impact of AI and was recently honored on the BBC 100 Women list. Ugin Dendrup co-founded NoMind Bhutan, an innovative AI startup. They discuss AI's significant energy consumption and its effects on sustainability. The heartfelt tale of two longtime friends meeting after 13 years underscores the personal connections forged through gaming. Together, they explore how AI can combat climate change while inspiring listeners to reflect on their own tech experiences.

Trishant Simlai, a researcher from the University of Cambridge, dives into the troubling impact of wildlife tracking technology on local Indian communities. He reveals how surveillance cameras intended for tigers inadvertently intrude on women's privacy and alter daily life. The conversation shifts to the broader influence of e-commerce on consumer behavior and ethical concerns over manipulation. Plus, there's an intriguing look at Arctic communities transitioning from coal to renewable energy sources in the face of climate change.