Daily Tech News Show

Carly Ann York, the author of 'The Salmon Cannon and the Levitating Frog,' dives into the extraordinary ways playful experiments lead to significant scientific revelations. She discusses innovative solutions for salmon migration and the captivating science behind levitating frogs. The conversation highlights how lighthearted research enriches our understanding of serious issues, showcasing examples like ferrets detecting landmines. York emphasizes the importance of curiosity-driven studies and their role in shaping future technologies inspired by nature.

Explore the innovative features of Oakley's new smart glasses, designed for cyclists and packed with tech improvements like voice commands. Delve into the intriguing intersection of health and technology through a life-saving house call by a nurse practitioner. Discover the impact of AI on Hollywood and shifting trends in content creation alongside major changes in the chip manufacturing industry. There's also a glimpse into the evolving landscape of augmented reality glasses and their potential to redefine media consumption.

Patrick Schlott, dedicated to restoring old payphones for free VoIP calls in Vermont, discusses the surprising resurgence of these nostalgic devices. He explores how VoIP technology is making payphones relevant again, enhancing public communication accessibility. The conversation shifts to innovative gadgets like Xreal One Pro Smart Glasses and emphasizes the importance of tech advancements for security in homes. Schlott reflects on the social impact of restoring payphones in underserved areas, addressing both technical challenges and the youth mental health crisis linked to screen time.

Joining the discussion is Dr. Niki Ackermans, a scientist and regular contributor known for her insightful perspectives on science news. They dive into the revolution of news consumption, revealing how social media is now critical for Americans seeking information. Dr. Niki emphasizes the need for critical thinking amidst a complex media landscape. The conversation also navigates the quirky world of basic scientific research, showcasing how even minor studies can lead to groundbreaking societal benefits—highlighting the unpredictable yet essential nature of scientific inquiry.

In this episode, guest Andy Beach, a tech enthusiast and AI advocate, dives into Hollywood's secretive relationship with artificial intelligence. He reveals how the industry grapples with the ethical implications of AI while balancing innovation and job security. The discussion unveils tensions between creativity and technology, hinting at a future where AI could transform filmmaking. From scriptwriting to production, Andy shares insights on how this technology is reshaping the entertainment landscape, sparking curiosity and debate among creators and fans.

Join Tom Merritt and guest Kevin Metcalf, Associate Vice Chancellor in IT at Foothill De Anza, as they dive into the transformative role of AI in education. Kevin shares how AI tools help students overcome challenges like writer's block and boost communication. They discuss personalized learning and accessibility while addressing data privacy and academic integrity. Discover how AI supports teachers rather than replaces them, and hear thoughts on future challenges like cheating in the AI space.

Dr. Niki, a science communicator and researcher, dives into the intriguing reasons behind why folks are sharing so much on Meta AI platforms. She discusses the psychological motivations for this openness and the potential privacy risks that come with it. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of user sharing for societal dynamics and digital culture. Additionally, Dr. Niki provides key updates on pressing issues in US science funding, including the challenges researchers face amidst budget cuts.

In this discussion, Jennifer Briney, host of the Congressional Dish podcast, shares her insights on the proposed U.S. budget bill aiming to regulate AI and its implications. The talk shifts to iOS 26’s new parental control features, which aim to empower parents in managing their children's digital habits while balancing privacy concerns. They also delve into Yahoo's efforts to attract younger users through AI enhancements, along with the ongoing challenges tech companies face amid legal battles and evolving AI ethics.

In this engaging conversation, Andy Beach, an expert on AI and media technology and writer for the 'a beach' sub stack, discusses Nintendo's remarkable console success, selling 3.5 million units in just four days. He examines the hurdles of launching the Switch 2, including battery issues and shifting market trends. Additionally, the dialogue touches on how Le Monde is adopting AI in journalism, showcasing the blend of technology with ethics. Tuning in, listeners find a stimulating perspective on tech innovations and collaboration in the media landscape.

Join Dr. Niki, a science communicator and biology expert, as she dives into the latest in tech and genetics. She highlights IBM's groundbreaking plans for the Starling quantum computer. The discussion shifts to the intriguing potential of editing spider genomes with CRISPR-Cas9, revealing possibilities in fashion and material science. Additionally, the competitive race for superintelligence unfolds as Meta pushes boundaries in AI, making for a captivating exploration of innovation in the tech world.