The PC Pro Podcast

The latest discussion covers Apple's bold Liquid Glass update, raising questions about user experience amidst the sleek design. There's skepticism about the impact of Android 16 on innovation and security. A major lawsuit highlights the clash between copyright laws and AI's content creation. Plus, a sneak peek into a new handheld Xbox gaming device delights tech enthusiasts. The hosts also tackle the complexities of modernizing air traffic control amid technological challenges and dive into the ethics of AI in creative industries.

The team dives into the spat between Apple, Google and the Met Police regarding phone theft in London, and debates whether IMEI blocking is the answer. We also look at CityFibre's rollout of 5.5Gbits/sec broadband and discuss the patchy state of UK connectivity. There's hope as Microsoft attempts to end the confusion around USB-C ports, and we ponder the impact of new Windows features landing in the EU. Our Hot Hardware candidate is a surprisingly good, but unbranded, motorised suction-cup phone mount bought from TikTok.

The team discusses how AI is diminishing the role of human software developers, and asks whether Nick Clegg is justified in his comments on copyright – or whether he’s been done dirty by the media. We also ponder whether or not we want our robots to look like humans, and learn how a Star Wars fan site was secretly operated by the CIA. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the IUMAKEVP wireless lavalier microphone – not exactly a prestige brand, but for £22 who’s complaining?

The latest tech announcements from Google I/O take center stage, unveiling AI-driven search features that spark debates on privacy. Discussions also tackle YouTube's new emotional advertising strategy, raising concerns about viewer experience. A surprising acquisition by OpenAI adds intrigue, while frustrations over Netflix’s ad campaigns highlight subscriber dissatisfaction. The conversation shifts to AI's role in education, ethics in book recommendations, and the innovative caberQU USB-C cable tester, blending humor with tech insights.

Join Nick Rawlinson, a seasoned PC Pro contributor and former Mac User editor, as he dives into the intriguing world of AI friendships and the potential drawbacks of relying on tools like ChatGPT in education. The conversation shifts to Microsoft's costly legacy support for Windows 10, and the changing dynamics of coffee shops cracking down on laptop usage. They also review the Onyx Boox Palma 2 e-reader, examining its innovative features and the evolving landscape of reading technology.

Jeff Campbell, a technology expert known for his insights in 3D printing and automotive tech, joins Rois ni Thuama, a commentator focused on data privacy and security. They dive into a critical vulnerability in Apple’s AirPlay that allows remote code execution, emphasizing the need for user awareness and timely updates. The conversation touches on security risks of Chinese electric vehicles in military use, and the implications of advertising in Google’s AI offerings. They also explore the latest Microsoft Surface innovations and a revolutionary multicolor 3D printer.

The team discusses a major legal smackdown for Apple; new plans to label smartphones with battery life and repairability scores; and the mysterious ongoing cyber-attack on M&S. We also bid a resentful farewell to the first-generation Google Nest thermostat, and vote on whether the Netgear Nighthawk RS100 has what it takes to be crowned Hot Hardware of the Week.

The team discusses the ongoing fallout from the EU’s legal sanctions against Apple and Meta, then gets properly stuck into the issues raised by the idea of AI “employees”. We also discuss ongoing legal proposals to force Google to sell off the Chrome browser, and our Hot Hardware candidate is the Anker MagGo power bank, a portable battery that doubles as a MagSafe-compatible wireless charging stand.

The team discusses a report urging UK authorities to get a grip on social media, along with the latest news from OpenAI and a controversial case of boxed, purchased software being disabled after a server shutdown. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the TP-Link PGW2440 kit, a (relatively) high-speed powerline networking system.

The hosts analyze the far-reaching impacts of Trump's technology tariffs, highlighting rising component prices and stock shortages in the tech sector. They engage in a lively debate over BAFTA's pick for the most influential video game, while reminiscing about the cultural impact of Shenmue. A humorous discussion revolves around an AI avatar used in court, questioning its credibility. They also explore IBM's new AI-driven mainframe and Meta's privacy innovations, wrapping up with a comedic look at the quirks of printers in the tech world.