
Business, Spoken
Get in-depth coverage of current and future trends in technology, and how they are shaping business, entertainment, communications, science, politics, and society.
Latest episodes

Jan 29, 2024 • 12min
A Last-Ditch Plan to Save the Crypto Industry
Investor Chris Dixon's book argues for blockchain's role in combating tech giant monopolies. The episode discusses the cultural divide within the crypto industry and the need for regulators to distinguish between misapplication and experimentation. It explores the challenges and shortcomings of blockchain for the internet but advocates for it as a step forward. The potential of blockchain in rebalancing the internet economy is also discussed, along with threats posed by the crypto industry.

12 snips
Jan 26, 2024 • 7min
Etching AI Controls Into Silicon Could Keep Doomsday at Bay
Researchers suggest etching AI controls into computer chips to limit the power of algorithms and prevent potential harm. This proposal aims to safeguard sensitive data, prevent misuse, and restrict access to computing power without a license. The chapter explores the concerns surrounding AI dangers and the challenges of implementing hardware controls for AI.

Jan 25, 2024 • 10min
OpenAI Quietly Scrapped a Promise to Disclose Key Documents to the Public
OpenAI, a nonprofit research lab, reneged on its commitment to share governing documents with the public. This decision has implications on the company's transparency, power dynamics, and stakeholder trust. OpenAI's shift towards closed-source and refusal to share governing documents, as well as their lack of transparency on annual reports and financial statements, are explored.

Jan 24, 2024 • 5min
Comcast’s Xfinity Stores Your Sensitive Data. You Can Kind of Opt Out
Comcast's Xfinity stores sensitive data for personalized ads. Concerns about data security and privacy. Opt-out instructions and information on requesting more details.

Jan 23, 2024 • 7min
The One Part of Apple Vision Pro That Apple Doesn’t Want You to See
An in-depth discussion on Apple's upcoming Vision Pro mixed reality headset, its similarities to Meta's Quest headset, and its innovative pass-through video technology. Exploring the unique feature of an external battery pack and the limitations faced by journalists during demo sessions.

Jan 22, 2024 • 5min
An AI Executive Turns AI Crusader to Stand Up for Artists
Former AI executive Ed Newton-Rex launches Fairly Trained, a nonprofit promoting ethical AI practices. They discuss the need for ethical data certification in AI algorithms and the shortcomings of current offerings.

Jan 19, 2024 • 7min
Apple Turned Its Epic Defeat Into Another App Store Victory
Apple's victory in the legal battle with Epic Games, the pushback faced by Apple and Google over their app store practices, and the potential impact of the EU's Digital Markets Act.

Jan 18, 2024 • 6min
Google Search Is a Mess. Can Mobile AI Make It Better?
Examining the decline of Google Search, its impact on search results, and comparing it to competitors. Exploring how Google uses mobile AI to enhance search functionality, with integrated AI features, multi-search capabilities, and potential commerce opportunities.

Jan 17, 2024 • 6min
How to Launch a Custom Chatbot on OpenAI’s GPT Store
Learn how to publish your own custom ChatGPT on OpenAI's GPT Store, similar to Apple's App Store. Discover the challenges of launching a custom chatbot, including legal concerns and payment details.

Jan 16, 2024 • 9min
A US-Sanctioned Oligarch Ran Pro-Kremlin Ads on Facebook—Again
A US-sanctioned oligarch ran a pro-Kremlin ad campaign on Facebook, undermining local elections in Moldova. The campaign used fake pages, deep-fake videos, and Russian disinformation. The lack of moderation on Facebook in non-English markets and Eastern Europe is a concern.