Podcast
Geek News Central Podcast
Hosted by Todd Cochrane · EN
Twice weekly Technology News show covering the Tech Space. With Segments on Science, Mobile, Digital TV, FAA, FCC, Cyber Security, Gadgets and Tech Politics.
32episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
NASA’s Voyager Probes the Mysteries of the Heliosphere #1851
Nov 1000:46:12Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Ray kicks things off with NASA’s Voyager mission uncovering extreme plasma temperatures—up to 50,000 Kelvin—at the edge of our solar system. He also dives into PBS’s 25-year celebration of the ISS, China’s breakthrough analog chip 1,000× faster than NVIDIA’s GPUs, and new AI and hardware innovations shaping the tech world. Plus, updates on MRAM advances, AMD’s latest gaming bundle, and Microsoft’s Windows 10 security extension. -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Email Ray if you want to get in touch! Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password Full Summary In this episode of the Geek News Central podcast, hosted by Ray Cochrane, the discussion kicks off with a lead story about NASA’s Voyager spacecraft and its recent findings regarding extreme temperatures at the edge of the solar system, specifically in the heliosphere. Cochrane elaborates on an article from IFL Science detailing how the twin probes, Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, launched in 1977, have been exploring this boundary. He explains that they measured temperatures ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 Kelvin, described as a “wall of fire,” which is more informally a region of extreme plasma conditions rather than a solid wall. Cochrane appreciates the longevity and ongoing research contributions of these missions. After discussing the Voyager missions, Cochrane shares some personal updates about his week, including hardware issues with recording his podcast and his academic experiences with midterms. He mentions switching devices for recording and working through technical problems due to an activation lock on his dad’s Mac Studio. Despite these challenges, he expresses excitement about trying out new editing software called Auto Edit to improve his podcast quality. Cochrane then transitions to expressing gratitude towards sponsors, specifically GoDaddy, for their support, highlighting various hosting services they offer, including affordable website solutions. He emphasizes how listener support through using the promo codes directly impacts the podcast’s continuation. The episode proceeds to a segment on recent news articles, starting with a PBS feature celebrating 25 years of the International Space Station (ISS), featuring a new series titled “Operation Space Station.” Cochrane notes the ISS’s impressive safety record of zero fatalities and discusses the significance of its contributions to space research. The next article discusses a breakthrough from researchers at Peking University who developed a new analog computing chip that functions a thousand times faster than high-end NVIDIA GPUs. Cochrane outlines the advantages of this new chip, particularly its potential implications for AI training and other standard computing processes. Following this, Cochrane mentions Anthropic’s expansion of their cloud coding tools to web and mobile platforms, making it easier for developers to use AI-powered coding assistance. He also dives into prompts for AI research, providing several examples that listeners may find useful. He then discusses a paradigm shift in RAM technology through a new laser-based technique for controlling magnetic states, leading to advancements in magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM). The episode continues to cover various tech topics, including AMD bundling games with the Lenovo Legion Go 2 handheld gaming PC, Microsoft’s announcement of free security updates for Windows 10 for an additional year, and reflections on the broader implications of these developments. Cochrane wraps up the episode with thanks to the audience for their support and encourages listener feedback through email. He expresses hope for a better week ahead and signs off, wishing everyone a great week. NASA’s Voyager Spacecraft Found a 30,000–50,000 Kelvin Wall at the Edge of Our Solar System PBS Celebrates 25 Years of the ISS with NOVA’s “Operation Space Station” on Nov 5 China Solves Century-Old Problem with New Analog Chip That Is 1,000 Times Faster Than High-End NVIDIA GPUs Anthropic Claude Code I Use Anthropic’s AI Assistant Claude to Save Me Hours of Research — These Are My 4 Go-To Prompts Claude Is Coming to Your Spreadsheets — But Is It Enough to Make You an Emperor of Excel, and What Will Microsoft Copilot Think? Apple Mac Pro and Mac Mini Clones Launch with AMD Ryzen CPUs — Perfect Mini PCs for Those Who Love Apple’s Aesthetics but Still Need Windows or Linux MRAM Discovery Computing AMD Bundles Four Steam Games with Lenovo Legion Go 2 — Costco Only Microsoft Confirms Free Windows 10 Security Updates — How to Get Them The post NASA’s Voyager Probes the Mysteries of the Heliosphere #1851 appeared first on Geek News Central.
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Gadget Overload for October 2025 #1850
Nov 3Tap to summarizeDive into “Gadget Overload for October 2025,” where we review this month’s standout tech — from Apple’s M5-powered iPad Pro and Asus ROG Ally X to Meta’s smart glasses — plus NVIDIA’s AI chip deal in South Korea, Google’s Gemini AI upgrades, new non-lethal drone defenses, and a 7-billion-year-old interstellar comet discovery. -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Email Chris if you want to get in touch! Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Full Summary In this episode of Geek News Central, titled “Gadget Overload for October 2025,” centers around a detailed overview of the latest gadgets released in October 2025. Chris begins by highlighting several standout devices, noting that the month saw a wealth of new technology, including mobile devices, smart wearables, and AR smart glasses. He mentions impressive upgrades like the Apple iPad Pro with the new M5 chip and various gaming devices, such as the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X. Chris provides insights on the various gadgets, explaining that while the M5-equipped devices may not warrant an upgrade for those with M3 or M4 models, the iPad Pro stands out due to its rapid storage speeds. He compares the Asus handheld gaming device with alternatives like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, expressing skepticism about its high price point. He also discusses the Meta Ray-Ban display smart glasses, praising their screen quality and control features, although noting that they still lack sufficient app support. Following the gadget discussion, Chris shifts to news about NVIDIA supplying over 260,000 Blackwell AI chips to South Korea. He highlights the significance of this delivery for advancements in AI infrastructure within the country, affecting smart factories and autonomous vehicles. Next, Chris covers Google’s upgrades to their Gemini AI for Android enterprise apps, emphasizing the benefits of faster responses and enhanced privacy in app functionality. The episode also touches on security innovations against drone threats, where Chris describes new non-lethal methods to disable drones, signaling a shift in defense strategies. Finally, he shares space news about the interstellar comet 31 Atlas, believed to be over 7 billion years old, and discusses its unique composition, drawing connections to the broader understanding of planet formation in the universe. Links: The Best Gadgets of October 2025 — Gizmodo Nvidia to Supply Over 260,000 Blackwell AI Chips to South Korea — Reuters Google Upgrades Gemini AI for Android Enterprise Apps — Developer Tech Drones: Non-Lethal Response to Neutralize Threats — Interesting Engineering 3I ATLAS: The Oldest Comet Ever — Interesting Engineering The post Gadget Overload for October 2025 #1850 appeared first on Geek News Central.
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Apple and Google Push Back Against EU’s Digital Markets Act #1808
Mar 21, 202500:36:43Tap to summarizeApple and Google are rebelling against the EU’s Digital Markets Act, claiming new interoperability and openness rules hurt consumers and innovation. The European Commission says these tech giants are abusing market dominance, with Google facing potential fines for favoring its services and restricting developer freedom. Apple is under pressure to make iOS more compatible with third-party devices. The tech giants argue the rules compromise security and user experience, highlighting growing tensions between US firms and European regulators. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In this episode, host Todd Cochrane discusses the lead story regarding Apple and Google’s resistance to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Both tech giants argue that new rules demanding greater interoperability and openness could harm consumers and stifle innovation. The European Commission has suggested that these companies are abusing their market dominance, with Google facing potential fines for favoring its services and limiting developer freedom. Cochrane points out that while Apple is not under immediate pressure to make its iOS more compatible with third-party devices, it contends that the new regulations may compromise user security and experience. He expresses skepticism about the EU’s motives, suggesting that similar U.S. interoperability demands might also be warranted. Cochrane elaborates on the implications of this regulatory scrutiny, particularly for Google, which is under investigation for its search engine practices and could face fines based on its annual revenue. Moving on, Cochrane welcomes listeners to episode 1,808 and acknowledges the show’s sponsor, GoDaddy, offering exclusive deals for listeners. He encourages support for the podcast and mentions opportunities for listeners to engage with the community through the website and social media. He continues with varied tech news stories, including a warning for Mac users about a known Windows phishing attack, a significant data breach involving stalkerware affecting millions, updates on YouTube’s resolution quality issues, and WhatsApp fixing a critical security flaw. Cochrane also discusses international issues, such as changes in intelligence sharing among the Five Eyes alliance and NASA’s upcoming Starliner test flight. He reviews news about breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, the launch of new Chromebooks, TikTok’s initiative for Amber Alerts, foldable tech innovations from Apple, and Nvidia’s unique promotional strategy featuring RTX GPUs. Further, he shares updates from Tesla regarding recalls of Cybertrucks, LG’s NFT marketplace closure, and Netflix’s competition with HBO. Cochrane reflects on how tech developments affect consumers, including Apple’s billion-dollar loss in its TV division and Plex’s price increases for streaming services. Finally, Cochrane looks into AI’s growing presence in fast-food services and wraps the episode by encouraging listeners to support the show through donations and participation in the value-for-value program. He thanks the audience for tuning in and promises to return on Monday with more tech insights. The episode concludes with a reminder to email and support the podcast. Five Eyes YouTube is investigating a bug WhatsApp patches a security flaw A data breach at a PA education union NASA examining options Man files complaint against ChatGPT Gemini coming to Chrome Apple shakes up ranks Chromebooks are not dead TikTok is adding Amber Alerts Apple and Google A folding Apple Watch Nvidia sells GPUs from a ‘food truck’ Jeff Bezos and Donald Trump Mac users are now in danger DOT and Tesla Stalkerware data breach Baidu denies data breach X sues Modi’s government Our genes reveal a mysterious split in the human population Google is working on a cleaner backup interface Roku’s Home Screen Ad Experiment Tesla recalls Cybertrucks LGs NFT marketplace for TVs <a href="https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/ver...
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US Astronauts Return Home After Nine-Month Stranded Stay on ISS #1807
Mar 18, 202500:32:28Tap to summarizeNASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, stranded on the ISS for nine months due to a Boeing Starliner malfunction, will return to Earth on Tuesday aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon. Initially planned as a short trip, their extended stay required extra supplies. Their journey home, alongside two other crew members, will be broadcast live. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In this episode of the Geek News Central podcast, host Todd Cochran discusses several technology-related topics, starting with the lead story about NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. They have been stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) for nine months due to a Boeing Starliner malfunction and are set to return to Earth aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon on Tuesday. This return was initially planned as a short trip, but their extended stay required extra supplies and generated public concern about their health. Their journey home, alongside two other crew members, will be broadcast live. Todd mentions that although their stay was lengthy, they did not set a record, noting that astronaut Frank Rubio and Russian cosmonaut Valery Polyakov hold records for extended stays in space. Todd welcomes listeners to episode 1,807, thanks their sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages support for the show. He highlights the importance of interacting live during the show and checks in with listeners about the podcast’s direction and changes. He shares updates on his studio setup and mentions feedback about audio levels in previous episodes. Following the introduction, Todd discusses various articles and technology news. He warns listeners about overconfidence in spotting phishing attacks, citing statistics on how many people fall victim to such scams. The discussion transitions to rumors surrounding the iPhone 17, including speculation about the release of an iPhone 17 Air and its potential pricing. Todd reflects on Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to remove classic Looney Tunes shorts from its streaming service, which he finds disappointing. He also recounts the news about Telegram’s founder being allowed to leave France after an arrest. He details the expected release of the Google Pixel 9a and the anticipated redesign of iOS 19. He mentions a significant supply chain attack that impacted numerous car dealerships. Todd discusses new Apple Wallet features intended to monitor recurring payments and alert listeners to new threats targeting Microsoft 365 accounts. A notable mention revolves around a groundbreaking camera designed to photograph faint celestial objects, which has been installed at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile. Amidst various departmental rankings, NASA is lauded as the top government agency for which to work. The conversation extends to Alphabet’s Tara, which targets remote internet access using laser technology, and the discontinuation of Google Assistant in favor of an AI called Gemini. A recent partnership between Klarna and Walmart involving buy-now-pay-later loans is announced, while Todd expresses concern regarding privacy issues with Amazon’s Alexa, which will begin sending voice commands to the cloud for processing. He warns of a critical RCE flaw in Apache Tomcat servers and discusses Roku’s testing of autoplay video ads. He then covers Mistral AI releasing an open-source model that outperforms others with fewer parameters. He also touches on the growing issue of AI-generated spam content online. Todd wraps up the episode by thanking an insider supporter and encouraging others to contribute, expressing his appreciation for listeners’ support. He invites them to reach out via email or social media and reassures them of his commitment to delivering tech news and hosting the show. The episode concludes with Todd expressing hope for a heavier tech news load in the next episode and inviting listeners to return. Astronauts are coming back to Earth. 06:05–Workers are overconfident of phishing attacks 07:28–The iPhone 17 Air Nvidia stock slides 08:52–Max wipes out Looney Tunes Apple’s rumored foldable iPad and iPhone 09:40–Telegram founder allowed to leave France 10:38–Google Pixel 9a 12:01–iOS 19 14:10–Car dealerships hit by attack 15:19–Apple Wallet 17:32–Microsoft 365 accounts are under attack 18:30–This car-size camera 19:57–NASA is the best place to work 20:46–Taara 23:40–Gemini replacing Assistant? 24:31–Klarna The post US Astronauts Return Home After Nine-Month Stranded Stay on ISS #1807 appeared first on Geek News Central.
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OpenAI Pushes for Copyright Flexibility and Light AI Regulations #1806
Mar 14, 202500:42:06Tap to summarizeOpenAI’s latest push for influence in Washington. With President Trump revoking Biden’s AI executive order, OpenAI is making its case for light regulations, copyright flexibility, and a stronger U.S. stance against Chinese AI competition. We’ll explore what this means for the future of AI development, government partnerships, and the ongoing legal battles over AI training data. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In this episode, “OpenAI Pushes for Copyright Flexibility and Light AI Regulations,” host Todd Cochrane introduces the lead story about OpenAI’s recent influence in Washington, especially following President Trump’s revocation of Biden’s AI executive order. OpenAI advocates for light regulations, copyright flexibility, and a stronger U.S. stance against Chinese AI competition. Cochrane highlights the implications this has for AI development, government partnerships, and legal battles concerning AI training data. He shares insights on OpenAI’s desire for a more favorable regulatory environment, noting that the company believes easing restrictions could accelerate government access to AI services. However, there are concerns regarding safety in government use of AI technologies, especially if regulations are relaxed. Cochrane discusses the potential dangers of AI from China, emphasizing that Chinese companies face fewer constraints than U.S. firms. As the episode continues, Cochrane explores the broader context of AI advancements and the operational strategies of AI firms. He raises concerns about the speed of government adoption of AI and its implications for safety and security. Cochrane also touches on a few other technology-related news stories, including OpenAI’s proposals involving copyrighted materials and a new executive order to sustain America’s global AI dominance. Throughout the discussion, he engages with the audience, encouraging feedback and interactions, and promotes listener subscriptions and donations to support the show. Cochrane expresses gratitude to the show’s sponsor, GoDaddy, detailing the advantages of using their services for hosting and domain needs. He covers various tech news highlights, including Microsoft’s antitrust probes, competitors’ implications of new AI features, and developments with major tech companies like Adobe and Meta. Cochrane shares news about notable advancements in AI and technology while addressing ongoing federal regulatory discussions. Toward the end of the episode, Cochrane acknowledges listener contributions and donations, emphasizing the importance of supporting the podcast. He concludes with a reminder of the following week’s episode and expresses his development challenges as a late-night, ongoing host. The episode wraps up with Cochrane thanking listeners for their support and wishing them a great weekend. 16:20–A man survives with a titanium heart 13:33–Adobe’s stock falls 40% of IT leaders are scared to admit mistakes 12:17–Gemini Deep Research 18:20–Meta warns of a worrying security flaw 18:55–iPhone 17 Pro, Max, and Air 20:22–Microsoft warns about a phishing campaign 22:20–Google Messages 22:55–Meghan Markle’s show on Netflix 23:41–Google and the governor of Utah 24:18–Meta is stopping a former employer from promoting a book 26:35–Printers are spitting out nonsense 27:27–Blood pressure tracking on the next Fitbit? SpaceX delays mission to rescue astronauts 29:18–iOS apps found to expose user data 30:18–T-Mobile raising rates 30:24–Sonos 31:07–Watching less TV lowers the risks of heart problems 32:04–NymVPN 12:36–Microsoft and the FTC 32:54–Is our universe trapped in a black hole? 34:34–Samsung’s bundle of 8 TV’s 35:43–Apple and Google 36:29–AI models hallucinate 15:16–Meta Community Notes 38:41...
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Meta’s Censorship Deal with China #1805
Mar 11, 202500:38:07Tap to summarizeA shocking new whistleblower complaint reveals that Meta, formerly Facebook, went to extreme lengths to gain access to the Chinese market, even agreeing to censorship demands from the Chinese Communist Party. According to former global policy director Sarah Wynn-Williams, the company developed a censorship system, suppressed dissident voices, and planned to allow the CCP to oversee content moderation. The complaint, filed with the SEC, accuses Meta of misleading investors and regulators about its China dealings. We dive into the explosive allegations and what they mean for the future of Big Tech and global free speech. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In this podcast episode titled “Meta’s Censorship Deal with China,” host Todd Cochrane dives into a shocking whistleblower complaint regarding Meta, formerly Facebook. The complaint reveals that Meta allegedly went to extreme lengths to access the Chinese market, including agreeing to censorship demands from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). According to the former global policy director, Sarah Wynne-Williams, the company created a censorship system that suppressed dissident voices and allowed the CCP to oversee content moderation. The complaint also accuses Meta of misleading investors and regulators about its dealings in China. Todd expresses his disbelief at the extent of Meta’s willingness to cooperate with the Chinese government, referencing a Washington Post report that outlines how Meta had been working closely with the CCP for many years. He highlights how Meta was prepared to grant the Chinese government access to user data in exchange for the ability to operate in China, which he finds deeply disturbing. He discusses broader implications, suggesting that content creators should consider podcasting as a medium less affected by censorship than platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Todd mentions the alarming trend of YouTube down-ranking content critical of China while promoting a positive image of the country through sponsored content, raising concerns about global free speech. After discussing the main story, Todd introduces the rest of the episode, emphasizing the importance of listeners subscribing to the podcast to ensure they receive unfettered content delivery. He acknowledges the show’s sponsor, GoDaddy, and details the exclusive deals they offer. The episode then covers additional news stories, including a cybersecurity issue related to Chinese-made Bluetooth chips that could be exploited through hidden commands and a significant cyberattack affecting the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Additionally, he discusses Chase’s new policy to block certain Zelle transactions believed to originate from social media scams and highlights the stock downturn for major tech companies, including Tesla, Nvidia, and Meta, amid market uncertainties. Todd also touches on a mandatory recall of Google’s Pixel 4A due to battery overheating, debates the ongoing discussion around Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and its implications for content moderation, and shares thoughts on Apple’s AI developments. As the episode wraps up, Todd mentions various tech-related topics such as a new Mario Lego set, Chromecast bugs, and a significant Oracle outage impacting US federal health records. He invites listeners to reach out via email and underscores the importance of staying informed in the rapidly evolving tech landscape, particularly regarding censorship and digital privacy. The episode concludes with a reminder for listeners to consider supporting the podcast through various donation methods. It reiterates the importance of podcasting as a platform for free expression in an increasingly censored media environment. Todd thanks the audience for tuning in and signing off, promising to return for another podcast edition shortly. 14:19–Is X down? 15:37–JP Morgan Chase cracking down on social media 36:18–Trump coins 33:42–YouTubers targeted 17:19–Tech stocks fall 34:55–Fake parking ticket scams 18:06–Google Pixel 4a’s painful “update” 19:18–Section 230 22:04–Apple Intelligence 25:08–This 2,000-piece Mario Kart Lego set 25:54–A serious bug on Chromecast devices 11:40–A top Bluetooth chip security flaw A terrifying NASA map 26:42–PC insiders weigh in on tariffs 24:05–Apple’s smart home hub 27:34–VA hospitals suffering outages 28:01–Google paid out millions 28:27–The DOJ and Google 29:38–‘Disc rot’ 31:07–<a href="https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiekFVX3lxTE00SUlFREV0dWF2SndJdi1ySVItR2U5cC00aEVZRWlN...
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The AGI Standoff Is Already Happening #1804
Mar 7, 202500:42:27Tap to summarizeToday, we’re diving into a major policy paper co-authored by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, Scale AI CEO Alexandr Wang, and AI safety expert Dan Hendrycks. They’re pushing back against the idea of a ‘Manhattan Project’ for artificial general intelligence (AGI), warning that an aggressive U.S. race for AI dominance could escalate global tensions—especially with China. Should America rethink its strategy on superintelligent AI? -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In this episode titled “The AGI Standoff Is Already Happening,” host Todd Cochrane discusses a significant policy paper co-authored by Eric Schmidt, Alexander Wang, and Dan Hendricks, which cautions against the creation of a Manhattan Project-style initiative for artificial general intelligence (AGI). They warn that the U.S.’s aggressive race for AI dominance could escalate global tensions, particularly with China. Cochrane expresses skepticism about the authors’ perspective, arguing that an AGI race is already underway despite their claims. He emphasizes the risk of a global AI arms race, likening it to the historical atomic arms race and questioning whether rivals would accept a strategic imbalance in AI development. Cochrane believes the existing competition and investment in AGI development among nations indicate that the standoff is already in motion. Throughout the episode, Cochrane engages with the topic while also updating listeners on his circumstances, including technical challenges he faces while setting up his new equipment and updates on his work schedule. He mentions using GoDaddy for website services and encourages listeners to support the podcast. The discussion moves on to various tech-related news items, including the U.S. government’s measures regarding cryptocurrency, upcoming Apple products like the first foldable iPhone and new Mac Studio models, and the implications of cybersecurity cuts in government positions. Cochrane also shares updates on app stores verifying user ages and recent fraud activity detected by Google. Cochrane thanks his audience for their donations and support and touches upon the ongoing challenges in the tech industry, such as ad fraud on app stores and the rise of AI in healthcare. He wraps up by reaffirming his commitment to podcasting and the importance of community support, urging listeners to engage with the show through feedback and memberships. 18:22–This strange AI smartphone 19:45–App stores to verify user ages 22:19–Mass app deletion on Play Store 23:00–DirecTV’s skinny bundles 24:41–VW is testing its robotaxis 16:27–NASA’s stranded astronauts 25:25–Radio signals from the other side of the universe 26:14–Victrola 26:43–Adobe and Apple TV 27:00–Netflix’s push into live TV 27:31–Mass federal layoffs 28:36–Congressional panel urges Americans to ditch China-made routers 29:39–DJI Magic 4 Pro 30:52–StarLink 33:34–Toronto Zoo 33:56–Everything new on Prime Video in March 34:08–Tired of your carrier? 34:54–Brother 36:00–Your older Pixel phone gets a boost 36:51–YouTube warns of phishing video 37:22–Ataraxis AI There shouldn’t be a “Manhattan Project.” Apple’s first foldable phone The post The AGI Standoff Is Already Happening #1804 appeared first on Geek News Central.
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ChatGPT 4.5 Unveiled and My Experience with it! #1803
Feb 28, 202500:50:40Tap to summarizeToday, OpenAI unveils GPT-4.5, its newest AI language model, promising enhanced writing skills, better knowledge, and a more refined, human-like interaction. Despite impressive upgrades, OpenAI admits GPT-4.5 isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s optimized for more natural conversations, practical problem-solving, and reduced hallucinations. Available first to ChatGPT Pro users, it’s soon rolling out broadly, including on Microsoft’s Azure platform. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In the podcast episode titled “ChatGPT 4.5 Unveiled and My Experience with it!” hosted by Todd Cochrane, the lead story is about the release of ChatGPT 4.5 by OpenAI. He discusses the new model’s enhanced writing capabilities and optimized natural conversations, though he notes it isn’t groundbreaking. Cochrane shares his initial experiences using ChatGPT Pro, which he used about four days prior. He highlights how the Pro model has saved him considerable time in scriptwriting, allowing for improved efficiency in his projects. Cochrane mentions that while he found some of the new features useful, the opening summary generated by the model did not significantly outperform his typical outputs. He also remarks on the need for additional hardware to support the model’s rollout. He continues discussing his experiences with the Pro version, describing how it has helped him conduct research and produce scripts by prompting him with questions to refine his input. As he delves into the rest of the episode, Cochrane welcomes listeners to episode 1,803 and expresses gratitude to his sponsor, GoDaddy. He provides exclusive deals and encourages listeners to support the show through various platforms. Cochrane shares his reflections on the past few weeks, his upcoming travel plans to the Philippines, and his ongoing workload. He covers several technology news stories, including updates on eBay, productivity concerns related to remote work monitoring, and the impact of AI on workforce efficiency. He comments on Amazon’s new AI-powered Alexa deployment, Elon Musk’s remarks regarding Verizon’s network, and Kia’s new EV model entering the U.S. market. Other stories highlight a Google experiment using Pixel phones for subway track detection, a security breach affecting millions of employees, and updates on Apple’s child account safety features. He discusses advancements in health tech with the Oura ring, new features on Google Pixel Watch, and various tech expansions and contract disputes involving major companies. The episode concludes with Cochrane engaging with his audience, inviting them to share their thoughts, particularly on ChatGPT 4.5 and their own experiences using AI tools. He desires to continue the conversations on upcoming technology trends and reassures listeners of returning episodes from the Philippines. Cochrane wraps up by thanking his supporters, inviting interaction through email and social media, and stressing the necessity of staying updated with future content. 22:39–NYC subway is using Google Pixels 24:24–Disa hit with a data breach 25:04–The iPhone 17 Pro 25:47–Pro-Ject’s AC/DC turntable 27:05–Android phones to drive sales 27:48–New Alexa devices coming in the fall 28:49–Katy Perry is heading to space 29:58–Apple unveils new features 30:31–Oura 31:53–Galaxy S25 Edge 18:51–FAA weighs cancelling Verizon contract 32:47–DoorDash pays millions 34:05–Waymo 10:55–Shopping on eBay is getting easier 34:46–DirecTV launches Genre Packs 35:47–What’s the shape of the universe? 40,000 year old tech 13:30–The surveillance tech waiting for workers when coming back to work 21:34–Kia’s EV4 39:19–Australia bans Kapersky products 40:09–Meta apologies 40:59–Verizon offers discounted internet 41:30–Stripe 41:54–43% of Americans use VPNs 43:03–WeWard 36:13–Ways to improve ...
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Protoclone Unveiled Put Some Pants On! #1802
Feb 25, 202500:44:54Tap to summarizeClone Robotics’ Protoclone features synthetic muscles, a polymer skeleton, and advanced sensors. It moves like a human. Future uses may include household chores but my god put some pants on the ugly thing. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: The episode starts with host Todd Cochrane introducing the lead story about “Protoclone,” a human-like robot created by Clone Robotics featuring synthetic muscles, a polymer skeleton, and advanced sensors. Cochrane describes Protoclone as bizarre, compares it to zombies, and highlights its human-like body structure, save for its head. He mentions the technical specifications of the robot, including a 500-watt electric pump as its “heart,” four cameras for eyes, and numerous sensors for movement and balance. Cochrane humorously suggests that future household roles for such robots might include chores but expresses his discomfort with their appearance, particularly the lack of clothing. After the lead story, he welcomes listeners to episode 1802 of the podcast, emphasizing the show’s role in tech news delivery and giving a shoutout to their sponsor, GoDaddy. He encourages listeners to check for exclusive deals. Cochrane interacts with the audience, inviting them to experience the show live and check out the website for additional content. Cochrane transitions into a tech article round-up, starting with Gmail’s shift to QR codes for 2FA login codes, which he expresses skepticism about. He discusses Chegg’s lawsuit against Google, noting Chegg’s concerns over diminished web traffic due to AI-generated summaries hurting online referral traffic. He reflects on the challenges for online content creators like himself, emphasizing the need to uphold original content. He highlights a new PayPal phishing scam in which victims are misled into installing remote desktop software, stressing caution among elderly users. Cochrane briefly discusses the drawbacks of cheap headphones before discussing an unusual new ASUS mouse that can smell like scented oil, which he finds unnecessary. Next, he brings up a story about a woman receiving compensation for her Candy Crush addiction caused by a medication’s side effects and questions the accountability of medical professionals involved. Cochrane then previews upcoming tech releases, mentioning potential delays on the iPhone 17 due to missing components, before discussing other recent tech news, including updates on Robot Intuitive Machine’s moon landing efforts, a new NASA telescope mission, and earnings reports from Nvidia. He closes the episode by answering viewer mail, thanking listeners for their support, and addressing additional comments and suggestions, like updating the show format. With a reminder of the show’s sponsor and an impending trip for future episodes, Todd wraps up the podcast, signing off and wishing everyone well. The hidden costs of buying cheap headphones Asus’ newest mouse The ‘Protoclone’ robot The iPhone 17 A company is returning to the Moon Google is killing SMS 2FA NASA’s new telescope SpaceX Nvidia reports Q4 earnings This PayPal scam Don’t buy a MacBook Air Norton boosts AI protection tools Virgin Media New York’s $15 broadband mandate Trump threatens tariffs Apple pledges billions The SEC is dropping it’s investigation into Robinhood The post Protoclone Unveiled Put Some Pants On! #1802 appeared first on Geek News Central.
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Crypto Scam Targets Elderly Globally #1801
Feb 21, 202500:47:21Tap to summarizeTwo men, aged 54 and 36, were arrested in England for a cryptocurrency fraud that cost a 75-year-old Aberdeen resident a six-figure sum. Police Scotland, with assistance from West Midlands and South Yorkshire Police, led the operation. Authorities stress vigilance as elderly individuals remain frequent scam targets, with crypto fraud surging globally. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -I am introducing Distil Union as a new sponsor of the show’s promo code, GeekNews. Check out their fantastic line of products and services focused on the fellas of the show or ladies if you are looking for that unique gift. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him on Facebook. Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Download the Audio Show File New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes $11.99 – For a New Domain Name cjcfs3geek $6.99 a month Economy Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1h $12.99 a month Managed WordPress Hosting (Free domain, professional email, and SSL certificate for the 1st year.) Promo Code: cjcgeek1w Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Full Summary: In the podcast episode “Crypto Scam Targets Elderly Globally,” host Todd Cochrane begins by discussing the arrest of two men in England for a cryptocurrency fraud case, which cost a 75-year-old Aberdeen resident a significant amount of money. He emphasizes the importance of vigilance as elderly individuals are often targeted by scammers, especially with the rise of cryptocurrency-related fraud. Cochrane welcomes listeners to episode 1801, expresses gratitude to the sponsor GoDaddy, and encourages audience engagement through various platforms, including a shout-out to their community. He mentions the ease of interacting with the live show via modern podcast apps. After a brief sponsor promotion, which includes various deals on GoDaddy products, he reflects on the past week’s events and notes the absence of listener emails urging them to share comments or feedback. Cochrane shares that Apple has innovated podcast submission processes, which now allows for easier podcast submissions. As the conversation progresses, Cochrane dives deeper into the cryptocurrency scam. He highlights the pattern of scamming older individuals and warns listeners, especially family members of the elderly, to discuss and create strategies to combat these scams. He suggests developing a “distress word” that can be used in emergencies to verify someone’s identity over the phone. Cochrane touches upon recent scams targeting vulnerable populations, stating that these issues are not isolated to one region, with incidents also occurring in the Americas and England. He emphasizes the need for continued caution and awareness, especially regarding the complexities of AI technology and the potential for scams using voice cloning. He then discusses the SEC’s creation of a new unit dedicated to protecting investors against fraud in crypto and AI, urging listeners to be cautious of their assets. The discussion moves to common scams involving AI-generated content and the importance of scrutinizing images to determine their authenticity. Cochrane shares his tech-related troubles, specifically regarding repairing old devices and his challenges with modern laptops. He mentions a report grading various laptop brands on their repairability, providing insight into which brands perform better. As he wraps up discussions on various tech topics, including Elon Musk’s recent controversies and advancements in autonomous driving technology, Cochrane shifts to updating listeners about WordPress vulnerabilities and new Apple products. He returns to the topic of cybersecurity, discussing issues with a government health provider’s compliance failures and reporting on privacy complaints against Apple in France. Cochrane mentions the evolving relationship between Amazon and the James Bond franchise amid their acquisition of MGM, referring to it as a financial pact following past disputes. He highlights stock market changes related to government contracts and reflects on the opinions of high-profile tech executives, noting the negativity in public perception towards both Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. As the episode nears its conclusion, he discusses OpenAI’s popularity, inquiries about big tech censorship, and changes in Twitch’s service for streamers. He wraps things up by mentioning Spotify’s use of AI for audiobooks and highlights the need for audience support in various forms, including monetary donations. Lastly, he thanks the audience for their engagement and support throughout his podcasting journey, reiterating ways to support the show. He then signs off, expressing his eagerness to return for the next episode. 10:35–Stop being tricked by AI fakery. Laptop makers being stalled on repairability 19:49–STLA AutoDrive Another WordPress plugin vulnerability 09:38–The SEC launches a new unit Another new Apple chip 23:39–Astronauts not stranded 25:05–Did Siri break the law? 26:51–Amazon now controls James Bond Palantir stock falls 29:04–Tech workers may be in ‘a world of hurt’ 30:44–HFNS pays millions 31:54–Amazon shuts down App Store 34:14–Everything leaving Hulu in March 34:30–A soldier pleads guilty 35:30–A ‘city-killer’ asteroid 36:00–Ring’s new outdoor camera 37:37–Google’s latest AI tool 05:09–2 people were arrested after a pensioner was scammed 37:58–<a href="http...
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