Uncanny Valley | WIRED

Delve into the intriguing dynamics of Silicon Valley with insightful conversations about influential tech figures. The hosts dissect the rapid expansion of generative AI and its implications for society. They explore pivotal decisions shaping tech companies and share quirky habits of CEOs that influence the industry. Tune in for a fresh perspective on the trends reshaping the future of technology.

Everybody wants to talk to their pet. Or to try to get them to listen, anyway. So it’s no wonder that some startups think the way to break through the communication barrier between you and your pooch is with a nice big helping of technology. Welcome to a world with AI-enabled dog and cat collars that try to interpret a pet’s needs and then share those wishes with their human. The only problem with these devices is that the pet won’t actually be a part of the conversation, as the collar is just guessing at what the pet is thinking—but still doing all the talking anyway. It’s less like the audio collar worn by the dog from the movie Up, and more like shouting at a chatbot strapped to your dog’s neck. Meanwhile, your dog or cat might just be trying to figure out where that new voice is coming from.Later in the show, we talk about all the weird new ways AI gadgets are bouncing around in our lives, and whether any of them are helping us have better conversations.Also, this week marks the final episode of the Gadget Lab podcast—at least in its current form. We’ll be back soon with a fresh reboot of the show. Lauren and Michael will return as hosts, but we’ll have a third cohost at the table, a new podcast title, and a new angle on our coverage. Show Notes:Stay tuned to this feed for the updated version of this show, out October 31! Read Boone’s stories about the talking pet collars and the AI-powered Friend necklace. Read Lauren’s story about the challenges of AI hardware. Keep an eye on all the ways AI is weaving into our lives. For all your gadget needs, follow WIRED’s onslaught of gear coverage.Recommendations:Boone recommends the rain. Lauren recommends taking walks. Mike recommends KEXP’s YouTube channel, where the Seattle radio station posts videos of musical acts playing in its studio.Boone Ashworth can be found on social media but honestly, since he’s going to remain as a full-time reporter at WIRED, just email him story tips: boone@wired.com. Lauren Goode is @LaurenGoode. Michael Calore is @snackfight@heads.social. Bling the main hotline at @GadgetLab. The show was produced by Boone Ashworth (@booneashworth). Our theme music was by Solar Keys. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Joining the conversation is Paresh Dave, a WIRED senior writer and expert on Ring cameras and AI technology. He unpacks the evolution of Ring, highlighting its rise to ubiquitous security tech and the controversies surrounding privacy and vigilantism. The discussion also delves into Ring's new AI-powered features that allow users to search footage easily. Additionally, Paresh critiques the company's ties with law enforcement and examines the ethical implications of surveillance in our daily lives.

Ozempic is making waves as a miracle drug for weight loss, but its shortage has sparked a surge of clone medications. The podcast dives into how GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide function and the societal implications of their use. It also addresses the rise of online alternatives amid concerns over safety and regulation. Another intriguing discussion focuses on gender differences in weight loss outcomes with these medications. Expect insights into the effectiveness, challenges of testing, and the ongoing debates around their regulation.

The podcast dives into the fascinating world of underwater data centers and their environmental ramifications. It highlights the energy-intensive nature of generative AI and how cooling technologies could help mitigate these effects. The conversation raises questions about sustainability and the accountability of tech giants like Google and Microsoft. Additionally, it touches on the need for careful oversight to avoid negative ecological impacts as AI technology continues to evolve. The hosts also reflect on the balance of innovation with environmental responsibility.

Discover the viral power of ridiculous questions on Threads, Meta's platform designed to lure users from Twitter. Hear about an experiment in 'rage bait' and the chaos it creates among users. Explore how Threads' algorithm prioritizes drama, catering to its most enraged users. Dive into conversations about financial incentives for content creators and how different social media platforms stack up. Plus, enjoy entertaining recommendations like a reality show about Mormon wives and the HBO series 'Industry'.

Apple's latest media event showcased exciting updates, including sleep apnea detection in the new Apple Watch and AirPods Pro's groundbreaking hearing aid features. The iPhone 16 introduces intriguing AI capabilities, sparking debate about their upgrade worthiness. The conversation also touches on karaoke fun, cultural reflections on emojis, and the evolving landscape of health tech. With insights on consumer preferences and tech's influence on music and society, the discussion dives deep into the intersection of innovation and everyday life.

Andy Greenberg, a senior writer at WIRED specializing in cybersecurity, dives deep into the world of encrypted messaging. He explains the critical differences between Signal and Telegram, particularly highlighting Signal's robust privacy features amidst Telegram's recent legal troubles. The conversation spotlights the catch-22 of protecting user privacy against law enforcement demands, and discusses the challenges of shifting user habits toward privacy-focused apps like Signal in a world dominated by surveillance capitalism.

Heat pumps are gaining popularity as efficient alternatives to traditional HVAC systems, proving to be climate superheroes. This trend is fueled by governmental support aiming for 65% adoption by 2030. Listeners learn about their functionality, costs, and potential savings. The conversation also touches on the labor shortage for HVAC technicians and the shift from fossil fuels to electric heating. Amid this, there's a light-hearted exploration of microplastics and humorous gardening discussions, blending serious topics with a touch of fun.

Aarian Marshall, a WIRED staff writer specializing in technology and transportation, dives into the exciting yet challenging world of electric vehicle (EV) charging. He discusses the rise of EVs and the growing concern of 'charging anxiety' that drivers face. Aarian sheds light on the complexities of charging costs and accessibility, particularly for apartment residents. He also highlights the efforts needed for equitable charging infrastructure and the bureaucratic hurdles that delay progress in the U.S., comparing it to faster advancements abroad.