Matt Binder, a Senior tech reporter for Mashable, dives into Apple's looming fine from the EU under the Digital Markets Act. He discusses how this ruling targets Apple's App Store practices, particularly its restrictions on app developers. The conversation highlights Epic Games' strategic moves to create alternative marketplaces and examines the broader implications of these regulations on Big Tech. They also touch on how these changes may lead to a more open digital landscape in Europe, impacting consumer options significantly.

Gary Marcus, Professor emeritus at NYU and AI expert, shares his insightful and cautious perspective on the future of artificial intelligence. He humorously recounts the errors of AI tools like ChatGPT while emphasizing the urgent need for responsible development. Marcus advocates for citizen action, including boycotting irresponsible companies and pushing for a regulatory agency for AI. He also discusses the implications of Section 230 in addressing misinformation amid the 2024 election, highlighting the complexities of reform in the face of tech lobbying.

The podcast delves into the complexities of free speech in the digital realm, especially regarding social media's influence post-elections. Key discussions highlight the challenges of regulating misinformation while safeguarding expression. The role of AI in shaping online discourse raises questions about transparency and user empowerment. Furthermore, it explores global case studies on tackling misinformation and deepfakes during elections, aiming for effective strategies that respect free speech.

Kathryn Jezer-Morton, a columnist for The Cut, dives into the complexities parents face with school cellphone bans in California. She discusses the anxiety around communication and safety in a tech-driven world. The conversation touches on the balance of responsible smartphone use amidst distractions, including a UK school's flip phone initiative. Jezer-Morton highlights the links between these bans and parental concerns over privacy and school safety, showcasing the multifaceted challenges of modern parenting.

Paresh Dave, a senior writer at Wired, discusses the unpredictable tech landscape under a potential second Trump presidency. He highlights Trump's controversial history with tech giants, his skepticism about breaking up Google, and the uncertain future of antitrust policies. The conversation touches on the implications for social media regulations and the CHIPS Act, alongside the complexities of TikTok and AI legislation. Dave also explores potential changes in the Federal Trade Commission's direction and the geopolitical stakes of semiconductor manufacturing.

Lila Welles, an English teacher at Artspace Charter School in North Carolina, shares her insights on navigating AI in the classroom. She reveals that 70% of teens use AI for school or leisure, often without their teachers knowing. Welles discusses the challenge of encouraging traditional learning methods amid tech dominance, advocating for silent reading and handwritten notes. She also recounts a humorous incident with a graphic novel, emphasizing the need for students to critically assess AI-generated content and confront smartphone distractions.

Anna Erickson, a professor of nuclear and radiological engineering at Georgia Tech, dives into the intriguing intersection of AI and energy demands. With data centers projected to consume 160% more electricity by 2030, Big Tech is looking to nuclear power for solutions. She discusses the revival of nuclear energy in the U.S., driven by companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon investing in new reactors. Erickson also highlights the challenges of scaling up nuclear power, including economic factors and workforce shortages, all while emphasizing its reliability compared to other renewables.

Derek Tisler, Counsel at the Brennan Center for Justice, dives into the battle against electoral misinformation on Election Day. He highlights the importance of trusted information sources, especially during isolated polling incidents. Tisler explains the differences between machine and hand ballot counting, shedding light on common misconceptions. He emphasizes community engagement with local election officials to foster transparency and trust. This insightful discussion equips listeners with the tools to navigate misinformation and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

Allie Funk leads Freedom House's technology and democracy initiative, championing internet freedom and human rights. She discusses alarming trends in internet censorship and misinformation during global elections, each worsening for 14 years. Funk highlights authoritarian tactics in countries like Pakistan and contrasts them with successful strategies from Taiwan and South Africa. The conversation dives into the need for transparency from governments and tech companies, especially with the looming U.S. Election Day, emphasizing the fight against political disinformation.

An AI transcription tool used in health care has been found to frequently hallucinate things no one ever said, including making up medications. That’s just one of the topics for today’s Marketplace Tech Bytes: Week in Review. Plus, we’ll get into what we learned from this week’s Big Tech earnings, including Google saying that it’s using AI to generate about 25% of its code. But first, it’s been a busy week for Apple. The company launched some of its new Apple Intelligence features and released its new lineup of Mac computers along with some souped-up chips. Marketplace’s Meghan McCarty Carino spoke with Joanna Stern, senior personal technology columnist at The Wall Street Journal, to get her take on this week’s tech news.