Today in Tech

Artificial intelligence tools continue to disrupt different facets of life, and it could affect how TV shows and movies in the future are created (and paid for). Keith and Chris discuss the AI influence in the writer’s guild strike, as well as if it has already disrupted Apple’s augmented reality offering before it even was announced. 

New and interesting use cases continue to develop for ChatGPT and other generative AI tools, while one of the early pioneers of artificial intelligence comes out against the technology. Is this a case where future AI will be like the Jedi – having a light and dark side? Keith and Chris discuss the latest developments in AI, as well as other technology news topics.

Looking back at some big technology news in the past week, Keith and Chris discuss the impact of the U.K. rejecting Microsoft’s proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, how space mishaps may affect future space exploration, and what GM’s decision to end production of the Chevy Bolt will mean for the EV market. 

People using artificial intelligence tools continue to create mischief, such as winning photography contests, imitating famous singers, and generating video from text prompts. As more tools get introduced, are we going to benefit from the results or go down a path where we might inadvertently begin losing our usefulness as humans? Keith chats with Alex Lawrence, an associate professor of business at Weber State University, about the benefits and potential disruptions of generative AI.

The rumor mill around the possibility of an Apple AR/VR (augmented reailty / virtual reality) headset announcement at the June Worldwide Developers’ Conference kicks into high gear. Computerworld’s Ken Mingis and Macworld’s Michael Simon join Keith to discuss the latest potential announcements from Apple.

Governments and car companies continue to push the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) to become more environmentally friendly. But as more people experience the technology, there are increasing concerns about potential battery issues, limited range, fire possibilities and other problems. Keith and Chris discuss whether this means an EV backlash is coming soon.

A scientific project that can create digital representations of the cardiovascular system aims to predict and diagnose diseases in virtual scenarios before applying them to real-world settings. The system can help doctors make better decisions on treatment options, as well as predict potential illnesses down the road. Iris Shelly, a research scientist with NTT Research, joins the show to discuss the project. 

Recent employment reports suggest that layoffs from tech companies did have an impact on IT-related jobs, but with extremely low unemployment for those positions, it remains a hot market for many companies looking for IT workers. Lucas Mearian from Computerworld joins the show to discuss the latest reports on tech employment, and what skills are now valued by employers. 

PC shipments around the world plunged in Q1 2023 compared to 2022, due to excess inventory and economic fears about new purchases. Also, governments around the world begin to flex their muscles over AI and big tech companies like Google and Apple. Also, can ChatGPT write a better fortune cookie fortune than a human?

Amazon’s Sidewalk expansion to outside developers is showing increased enthusiasm for low-power networks that could compete with 5G to support Internet of Things infrastructures. Analyst Jack Gold joins the show to discuss the latest developments around IoT and 5G and how it could provide better tracking capabilities for packages and other services.