Uncanny Valley | WIRED
WIRED
Welcome to Uncanny Valley—an insider look at the people, power, and influence of Silicon Valley—where each week, WIRED’s writers and editors bring you original reporting and analysis about some of the biggest stories in tech. On Thursdays, WIRED’s Global Editorial Director Katie Drummond is joined by Lauren Goode and Michael Calore to break down a recent story or phenomena bubbling up in Silicon Valley and explain its influence on our daily lives. And on Fridays, WIRED’s Zoë Schiffer has an urgent conversation about this week in the news.
Episodes
Mentioned books
11 snips
Jul 11, 2024 • 29min
Semaglutide for the People
The podcast discusses the rise of clone drugs offering GLP-1 benefits at lower prices due to a shortage of Ozempic. They explore the risks of buying these drugs online and the ongoing debate on regulating their use. The hosts also share their experience with receiving drugs in the mail for testing and discuss the weight loss benefits and cardiovascular health effects of GLP-1 drugs.
11 snips
Jul 4, 2024 • 31min
Thinking About Buying a Hybrid Car? Listen Up
The podcast discusses the government mandate for more electric cars by 2032, leading to a surge in hybrid cars. They explain the differences between plug-in hybrids, full hybrids, and electrics. Tips for apartment dwellers without convenient charging options. Safety, tax credits, and experiences with hybrids are also covered. The hosts also explore American literature and share literary recommendations.
Jun 27, 2024 • 40min
The Rise and Fall of Juul
The podcast discusses the rise and fall of Juul, the regulatory response to e-cigarettes, safety concerns in the vaping industry, Juul's shift towards nicotine reduction, and recommendations for combating jet lag and engaging kids with podcasts.
5 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 33min
Good Search Borrows, Great Search … Steals?
This podcast discusses the controversy of web crawling tech being used by AI companies to absorb articles. They explore Forbes' battle with Perplexity.AI over plagiarized content. Recommendations include a horse racing league and the book Victim.
5 snips
Jun 13, 2024 • 42min
Thinking Different About Apple AI
Apple showcased new AI capabilities at WWDC, catching up with other tech giants. WIRED senior writer discusses Apple Intelligence, privacy, and user experience. Apple aims to differentiate its AI offerings and encourage iPhone upgrades. Collaboration with OpenAI and upcoming satellite messaging feature are also explored. Challenges of secure conversations and AutoGen software framework are discussed with a humorous touch.
7 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 32min
Learning to Live With Google's AI Overviews
The podcast discusses Google's AI Overviews, their messy rollout, inaccuracies, and backlash. Writers share personal experiences with AI summaries and the challenges faced by journalists. Controversy surrounds new feature rollouts, plagiarism concerns, and the impact on news media outlets. The episode also includes book recommendations, indie games, and the history of Krautrock music.
6 snips
May 30, 2024 • 39min
The Weird World of an AI Clickbait King
Discover the shady world of AI-generated clickbait on squatted domains. Learn how prospectors reuse abandoned websites with clickbait articles. Explore the impact of generative AI tools and the growth of clickbait farms. Dive into the ethical concerns and challenges in combating clickbait in search results. Get recommendations on books and social media platforms from the podcast guests.
9 snips
May 23, 2024 • 38min
Everyone's Pumped About Heat Pumps
Learn about the energy-efficient revolution of heat pumps, how they work, their cost savings, and their impact on traditional HVAC jobs. Get insights from a heat pump expert on how these appliances are transforming the future of residential heating and cooling.
May 16, 2024 • 36min
The End of Google Search As We Know It
Exploring Google's AI advancements at I/O developer event, focusing on search engine evolution for the AI era. From chatbot demos to AI-powered search, Google is reshaping internet search. Podcast also covers unique startup pitches, AI investment opportunities, and creative recommendations like a Spanish film based on Alice Munro stories.
May 9, 2024 • 36min
How Black Twitter Defined Culture
Guests Joie Jacoby and Prentice Penny discuss the evolution and impact of Black Twitter as a cultural force. They share insights on creating a documentary series about the community's history and activism. Recommendations include Met Opera show and YouTube channel Pitch Meetings.
