The Big Tech Show

Who is rising and falling in the US tech world? What events will shape 2026? And will Elon weather the Grok scandal?  Blake Montgomery, the Guardian’s US Tech editor, joins Adrian on this week’s episode of The Big Tech Show.   The conversation began by Adrian asking the Guardian’s US tech editor about the reaction in America to the Grok AI scandal. The US-based journalist explained that the reaction to X’s Grok AI tool in the US has been muted and heated than Europe. According to Montgomery, a couple of US lawmakers have voiced their concerns and called for a Grok ban but because the reaction to the AI tool globally, Musk has begun to dial back the AIs capabilities.  You can listen to the full episode here, on the Irish Independent website or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes Jeff Bezos tick? Is he a generational talent who will take us to the stars? Or billionaire tech bro living the high life? Christian Davenport, journalist who spent twenty-five years at the Washington Post and the author of the recently published book, Rocket Dreams: Musk, Bezos, and the Inside Story of the New, Trillion-Dollar Space Race. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Grok AI now being used to undress people online, what do we do? Should government ministers stay off X? And is Ireland about to require digital ID? TJ McIntyre, associate Professor of the Sutherland School of Law in UCD and Head of Digital Rights Ireland joins Adrian on this week’s episode of The Big Tech Show. You can listen to the full episode here, on the Irish Independent website or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Cluskey, CEO of Mobility Mojo and accessibility advocate, shares his inspiring journey after a life-altering accident left him paralyzed. He discusses his rehabilitation, emotional resilience, and how he turned challenges into a mission for change. Stephen reveals the growth of Mobility Mojo, focusing on workplace accessibility and the impact of technology on disabled employment. He emphasizes global disparities in accessibility and the importance of dignity for disabled travelers, showcasing his commitment to making a difference.

How will tech affect your life in 2026? Will AI win you over with convenience? Could dodgy-box users be fined? And what about a mid-Atlantic rift when it comes to tech regulation? ­ In this episode of The Big Tech Show, Adrian Weckler is joined by Dee Reddy to share his 10 predictions on what to expect next year, as well as rating how our predictions for the last year turned out. ­ The Big Tech Show available is on all podcast platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ireland’s list of global sporting champions is relatively short, which means that when a new one is minted then we like to celebrate their achievements with them. And while Excel spreadsheets is about as niche as e-sports get - there’s no doubt that the competition is heating up when it’s broadcast live from Las Vegas via ESPN. And this year, it looks like it's not just Excel’s logo that proudly wears green - as the title of Global Excel Champion 2025 was won by Ireland’s Diarmuid Early.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sean Blanchfield, a serial tech entrepreneur and co-founder of the AI middleware company Jentic, shares insights from his impressive tech journey. He discusses how gaming culture inspired his company Demonware and the importance of middleware in the gaming industry. Sean highlights Jentic's mission to connect AI agents with enterprise systems and the evolving role of AI in software development. He critiques Europe's regulatory landscape, cautions about automation's impact on jobs, and emphasizes the need for local innovation and pragmatic policies.

Stuart Miles, a technology expert and founder of Squirrel, joins to discuss the future of Apple. He explores whether we're on the brink of a folding iPhone in 2026 and assesses the iPhone Air’s lackluster performance. The duo critiques Apple's AI strategy and ponders if cheaper products could compromise the brand. They also examine leadership changes at Apple, speculating on Tim Cook's succession. The conversation is packed with insights on Apple's product roadmap and market challenges, making it a must-listen for tech enthusiasts.

JJ Clarke, a producer and tech enthusiast, joins to share exciting Christmas gift ideas. They discuss the trend of retro compact cameras, particularly Kodak's PixPro FZ55, which appeals to Gen Z with its vintage look. JJ also highlights the Brick, a clever device that blocks social media apps to curb phone addiction. Other recommendations include the Siemens EQ500 coffee machine for aficionados and the stylish Fujifilm X100 series for photography lovers. They also caution against giving smart gadgets that may miss the mark.

What’s going on in Bitcoin? Is this a crypto winter? And how is AI luring funds away from digital currencies? Katie Byrne, Money editor with the Irish Independent, joins Adrian on this week’s episode of The Big Tech Show. The conversation began by Adrian discussing why mainstream cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin is down around 25% over the last two months, and around 15% for the year, wiping close to a hundred billion dollars from people's wallets or Revolut accounts. You can listen to the full episode here on the Irish Independent website or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.