FT Tech Tonic

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, discusses his journey from free speech advocate to a wanted figure following his arrest in France. He addresses the serious allegations regarding crime facilitation on Telegram, highlighting the complex balance between accountability and user freedom. The conversation delves into the operational challenges of Telegram's unique culture and its strategies for privacy alongside potential security risks. Durov also speculates on the future of social media regulation and the implications for both tech companies and free expression.

Anita, a Twitch streamer, bravely shares her traumatic experience with unauthorized deepfake content. She discusses the emotional toll and the struggles she faced in removing these images online. The conversation highlights the disproportionate impact of deepfakes on women and the pressing need for effective regulations. Digital forensics expert Hany Farid and AI author Nina Schick join the discussion, exploring the challenges and potential technological solutions, like watermarking and detection software, to combat the rise of this technology.

Hannah Murphy, a tech reporter from the Financial Times based in San Francisco, dives into the murky world of deepfakes. She examines the chaos these AI-generated fakes can create, impacting personal reputations and professional integrity. The podcast reveals a chilling case involving a principal and a malicious audio deepfake. Experts discuss the evolution of image manipulation and the growing threat to democracy. Murphy also explores how deception intertwines with technology, making it hard to separate fact from fiction.

China's tech supremacy and space exploration discussed by Eleanor Olcott and Matthew Funaiole. Topics include China's lunar missions, space technology advancements, strategic goals, historical trauma driving tech focus, and challenges in surpassing the US in technology amidst authoritarianism.

China's tech race for AI supremacy is fueled by the hunt for advanced computer chips, with smuggling tactics employed to bypass US bans. The podcast delves into Huawei's efforts to develop cutting-edge AI chips amidst challenges, highlighting the scarcity of Nvidia chips in China and the country's struggle to scale up chip production to meet AI demands.

James Kynge, FT correspondent, discusses China's push for tech supremacy through robotics. They explore the use of robots in various industries, the demographic challenge China faces, and how robots are seen as a solution to the shrinking workforce.

A new season investigates the Qatargate scandal where EU lawmakers were accused of accepting payments from Qatar. The episode explores corruption, money laundering, and political fallout, impacting European democracy and upcoming elections.

Yang Wang, senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, discusses Chinese tech companies' success in Nigeria, focusing on Transsion and Chinese-owned lending apps. The podcast explores the impact of Chinese technology in Lagos, Nigeria, including concerns about predatory loan apps and the influence of Chinese companies on local tech and financial sectors.

BYD, a Chinese EV manufacturer, targets European market with low production costs amidst US tariffs. European carmakers wary of competition. State backing fuels Chinese tech advancements in electric car industry, raising concerns in EU. BYD's strategy of owning cargo ships and controlling supply chain highlighted.

Join host James Kynge in Shenzhen as he explores China's tech evolution with inventor Noah Zerkin. From vibrant electronics markets to robot start-ups like Youibot and DJI's drone success, learn how China's tech prowess challenges established narratives on innovation and freedom.