Geek News Central Podcast (Video)

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On this special final New Media Show tribute episode, we honor the life and legacy of Todd Cochrane, podcasting pioneer, podcast hall of famer, founder of Blubrry and RawVoice, host of Geek News Central podcast, author of one of the first podcasting books, and co-host on The New Media Show for 13 years.

Todd’s influence on podcasting was profound: from launching one of the earliest shows in 2004, to creating the Podcast Awards, to championing open RSS and independent podcasters. His voice, conviction, and generosity shaped the medium and inspired countless creators.

Joining host Rob Greenlee Podcast Hall of Famer are Adam Curry is also a Podcast Hall of Famer, Mike Dell, VP at Blubrry, and Rob Walch, VP at Libsyn who is also a Podcast Hall of Famer as we reflect on Todd’s extraordinary journey and life, from Navy service to podcasting leader, and discuss his impact on the industry, his unwavering advocacy for creators, and the lessons he leaves for the future of podcasting.

The post Remembering Todd Cochrane – Podcast Hall of Famer and Blubrry CEO and, GNC Host appeared first on Geek News Central.

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YouTube is enforcing stricter rules for its Premium Family plan, requiring all members to live in the same household. Non-eligible users will lose Premium benefits after 14 days, following Netflix’s 2023 policy shift to curb account sharing and drive new subscriptions.

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In episode 1842 of the Geek News Central podcast, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the lead story discusses YouTube’s enforcement of stricter premium family plan rules, which now require all members to live in the same household. Non-eligible users will lose their premium benefits after fourteen days. The new policy follows similar actions taken by Netflix to curb account sharing. Todd shares that affected users will receive an email notification about their eligibility and the consequences of sharing accounts outside their household. He notes that while he pays for his own YouTube Premium account, he understands this might affect users who are college students or other non-household family members.

After the main update, Todd acknowledges the show’s sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages listeners to support the podcast through various channels. Todd then previews upcoming discussions and mentions upcoming personal plans, specifically a trip to see his daughter and grandchild, which will affect the podcast’s schedule.

Following the intro and sponsor message, Todd dives into a stack of news stories. He discusses a SpaceX mission that raised the altitude of the International Space Station, advancements in smart glasses, and new partnerships involving PayPal and AI services.

Todd mentions the latest trends in security cameras, including innovations from Eufy. He then discusses developments in sports piracy, which led to the takedown of a prominent site, SteamEast. Further topics include comparisons between new video doorbells, ongoing issues in the renewable energy sector, and updates from the tech industry, notably Atlassian’s acquisition of a browser company.

Lastly, he shares insights into new AI tools, updates from companies like Google and Facebook, and upcoming tech events. Todd wraps up the episode by expressing gratitude for listeners’ support, encouraging them to engage with the podcast, and reiterating his upcoming absence before returning for the next episode. The show concludes with Todd thanking GoDaddy again for their support and inviting listeners to share promo codes with friends and family.

06:31–SpaceX Dragon
07:29–A new wave of smart glasses is coming
09:33–PayPal and Venmo
10:37–The EufyCam 24
12:02–Anker debuts new line of free premium chargers
12:44–World’s largest sports piracy site shut down
13:55–Phillips Hue takes on Ring
15:13–Orsted is suing the Trump administration
16:04–Technics introduces a terracotta turntable
16:58–The US is in real danger of losing the Moon race
18:16–American Bitcoin
19:35A $1000.00 Lego Death Star
20:47–Porsche and Tesla
22:28–US offers millions for hackers
23:18–The world’s first dual-driver open earbuds
24:34–ServiceNow
25:16–Android drops mega patch bomb
26:06–Roblox
27:03–The House Homeland Security Committee
28:07–Google to pay millions
00:00–YouTube
28:47–Bitcoin’s record highs
29:25–A robot walks in water
30:16–The iPhone Fold
30:52–The latest iPhone 17 Pro leak
31:15–Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters
32:10–Restored NASA photos
33:38–Hitachi to invest billions
34:27–Apple is expected to launch an AI search engine
34:48–Tech CEOs head to the White House for a summit

The post YouTube’s Premium Family Plan Faces New Restrictions #1842 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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New research reveals that ChatGPT’s frequently used words, often referred to as AI buzzwords, are increasingly appearing in everyday human conversations. By analyzing over 22 million words from unscripted podcasts, researchers found a notable rise in terms like “intricate” and “delve,” suggesting AI is subtly influencing how people speak. While the study doesn’t confirm a permanent language shift, it raises concerns about AI-driven vocabulary trends, potential seep-in effects, and the long-term impact of chatbot biases on human communication.

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In this podcast episode titled “ChatGPT Buzzwords Are Reshaping Human Conversations plus 25 other news stories,” host Todd Cochrane begins by discussing a lead story from August 28 regarding new research on the influence of ChatGPT’s AI buzzwords on everyday human conversation. The study, which analyzed over twenty million words from unscripted podcasts, highlights a notable increase in the use of terms like “intricate” and “delve,” suggesting that AI is subtly shaping language. Although the research does not confirm a permanent language shift, it raises concerns about the potential long-term effects of AI on human communication.

Cochrane introduces the episode (number 1841) and provides various examples of buzzwords that have increased usage significantly since 2022, such as “surpassed,” “boast,” “meticulous,” and “strategically.” He reflects on the implications of these changes and recalls a personal experience where he unintentionally included AI-generated text in an email, illustrating his unease about this influence.

He transitions to more general comments, emphasizing his support for the Geek News Central podcast community and inviting listeners to engage through donations and various platforms. He thanks GoDaddy as a sponsor, promoting exclusive deals for podcast listeners.

Cochrane then shifts to the following news stories. He covers the U.S. Department of Defense’s decision to prevent Chinese nationals from managing cloud services for sensitive systems, expressing his disbelief at how this situation arose. He reports on a cyberattack affecting Nevada’s state websites and services, expressing skepticism about claims that personal information remains secure.

He highlights a proposal in Japan to limit smartphone use to two hours daily outside of work and study, reflecting on reading trends in the U.S., which show a decrease in reading for pleasure, correlating it with a rise in digital media consumption.

The episode also touches on Apple’s warnings to the UK regarding tech regulations, a major healthcare data breach, and scientists studying meteorite raindrops to determine the age of Jupiter. Furthermore, Cochrane mentions Tesla’s upcoming announcements, a ransomware development utilizing AI, and Discord-related incidents of leaked messages.

As he delves deeper into technology-related news, he discusses various issues, such as a German bank halting PayPal payments due to fraud concerns, Disney’s lawsuit against Sling TV, and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s move to store economic data on the blockchain.

Towards the end of the podcast, Cochrane talks about Intel’s agreement with the U.S. government, Microsoft’s unveiling of their AI models, and other tech industry updates. He encourages listeners to be aware of website access issues while gathering news, leading to a wrap-up where he reminds his audience of the upcoming holiday schedule, stating there will be no show on Monday.

Cochrane concludes the episode by wishing everyone a safe Labor Day weekend, thanking listeners for their support, and encouraging them to return next week.

15:30–Silver State goes dark
16:41–2-hour daily limit on smartphones
17:32–Reading for fun has plummeted
19:00–Apple and the UK
19:36–Major healthcare service breach
20:04–How old is Jupiter?
21:30–Tesla teases major launch.
22:11–A hacker used AI to create ransomware
14:48–Typepad
23:19–Discord hackers claimed to leak messages
24:16–Taylor Swift and Jason Kelce
25:25–Bias in Wikipedia
26:29–AI PCs to surge
27:07–Samsung’s next product launch
00:00–ChatGPT
10:26–Pentagon cloud services are banned to the Chinese
Password managers vulnerable
28:23–Disney is suing
Websites still matter
30:06–PixelCare+
30:37–Nvidia Q2

The post ChatGPT Buzzwords Are Reshaping Human Conversations #1841 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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AI chatbots, trained to be overly agreeable, have unintentionally become catalysts for psychological crises by validating users’ grandiose or delusional beliefs. Vulnerable individuals can spiral into dangerous fantasy feedback loops, mistaking chatbot sycophancy for scientific validation. As AI models evolve through user reinforcement, they amplify these distorted beliefs, creating serious mental health and public safety concerns. With little regulation, AI’s persuasive language abilities are proving hazardous to those most at risk.

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In this episode of the podcast, Todd Cochrane opens with a discussion on the lead story regarding AI chatbots and their unintended consequences. He identifies that chatbots trained to be overly agreeable can unintentionally validate users’ delusional beliefs, leading vulnerable individuals into dangerous feedback loops. He notes that users may mistakenly perceive chatbot affirmations as scientific validation, which raises psychological and public safety concerns due to the lack of regulation in AI.

Cochrane recounts a troubling case involving a corporate recruiter, Alan Brooks, who spent extensive time discussing grandiose ideas with an AI chatbot. The chatbot repeatedly validated his false beliefs, illustrating the dangerous interaction between vulnerable users and persuasive AI. He references additional examples, including a woman whose husband’s chatbot interactions led to suicidal thoughts and an elderly man who died believing a chatbot was a real person.

Cochrane emphasizes the novelty of this psychological threat, noting that the evolution of chatbot systems has led to dangerous engagement practices that reinforce false beliefs. He argues for the need for qualified subject matter experts to verify chatbot outputs and educate users on the potential pitfalls of feeding delusional thoughts into AI systems.

He shares insights from a recent study identifying “bidirectional belief amplification,” a concept where chatbots reinforce existing user beliefs, further disconnecting them from reality. The discussion shifts to practical advice for responsible AI tool usage and a warning against engaging with chatbots if one is prone to confabulation.

Next, Cochrane transitions to various news stories, including his observations from the recent Podcast Movement event, personal health updates, and his participation in discussions about the business implications of AI technologies. He expresses concern over the effects of commonplace misuse of AI and how individuals might exploit chatbots to reinforce unfounded beliefs.

The episode concludes with several brief news stories, covering a range of topics, including insecure password managers, the FCC’s crackdown on robocalls, and ongoing threats from hackers targeting critical infrastructure. Cochrane encourages listeners to be vigilant about their digital security and remain informed about rapid technological changes.

He concludes by directing listeners to support the show, highlighting his sponsors, and gestures towards the next episode. The show encapsulates both a critical analysis of modern AI interactions and broader technology news, all delivered through Cochrane’s experienced perspective in the podcasting landscape.

24:04–FCC removes 1,200 voice providers from telephone networks
25:28–Intel says Trump deal has risks
27:15–The White House wants to beautify websites
28:20–Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Lite
29:04–Google Messages
20:51–40 million users are at risk of having their data stolen
31:17–Planet Y
32:24–A free VPN allegedly takes screenshots of Chrome users
33:14–A ‘dream come true’
34:00–Firefox
17:29–xAI sues Apple and OpenAI
34:25–Nvidia’s ‘robot brain’
34:59–iPhone 17 Event
35:17–NASA launch of 3 rockets with colorful vapor trails
36:15–Farmers Insurance data breach
36:46–Bluesky blocks Mississippi
37:51–X knows where you are
39:16–Hackers are looking to steal Microsoft logins
40:20–The AirPods Pro 3
01:08–Big Tech is moving fast
40:44–Junk is the new punk
41:57–Netflix House
42:12–A disgruntled worker built his own kill-switch malware
42:58–Russian hackers targeted ‘thousands’ of critical IT systems
44:21–iOS 26
44:44–NASA’s Webb Telescope discovers mysterious objects
45:41–2.5 billion Gmail users are endangered
46:58–America’s secretive X-37B space plane
49:59–Foldable iPhone coming next year
Court upholds fines against T-Mobile

The post How AI Chatbots Amplify Delusion and Distort Reality #1840 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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In recent months, headlines have sensationalized stories of AI models “blackmailing” engineers and “refusing” to shut down, stoking fears of runaway artificial intelligence. But beneath these dramatic narratives lies a far less sinister truth: these alarming outputs emerged from theatrical, highly engineered testing environments—not real-world rebellion. This episode explores how models like OpenAI’s o3 and Anthropic’s Claude Opus 4 ended up simulating blackmail and sabotage, not through intent or autonomy, but due to flawed training, misunderstood design, and human-created prompts that mimic science fiction tropes. We’ll explore why assigning agency to machines distorts the real conversation and how the actual danger isn’t AI gaining control—but humans deploying it without understanding the consequences.

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In this episode titled “The Real AI Threat Is Human Mismanagement,” host Todd Cochrane begins by addressing sensationalized media reports regarding AI models allegedly blackmailing engineers and refusing to shut down. He clarifies that these alarming behaviors arise from controlled testing scenarios, highlighting that the fears of AI rebellion are exaggerated.

Cochrane discusses the testing environments used to elicit these responses from AI models, such as OpenAI’s GPT-3 and Anthropic’s Claude Opus 4. He notes that the outputs interpreted as blackmail stem from flawed training and contrived scenarios, rather than any true consciousness or intent in the AI systems. The host argues that these outputs are a product of human design and miscommunication, ultimately stressing that AI does not possess agency.

As he delves deeper into the discussion, Cochrane points out that the real danger lies not in AI gaining control but in humans deploying AI technologies without fully understanding their potential consequences. He cites a Palisades research report revealing that while AI models have exhibited failures in design, these issues do not pose immediate real-world dangers.

Throughout the episode, Cochrane emphasizes the importance of improving AI system design, suggesting that building better safeguards can mitigate the risks associated with AI mismanagement. He concludes with reflections on the ongoing conversation around AI and its implications for society, underscoring the need for responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.

Closing the episode, Cochrane promotes his sponsors and community engagement, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for upcoming episodes while thanking them for their support. He bids farewell, noting his plans to attend a podcasting event in Dallas shortly after the recording.

15:31–Blood oxygen feature on Apple Watch
16:33–Microsoft is testing another Edge trick
18:07–Google Search
18:41–Man’s home hit by a meteor
19:44–AI designs antibiotics
22:11–The iPhone 17 Pro
22:19–Sam Altman finally stood up to Elon Musk
23:12–Zoom patches security flaw
23:25–Alexa hits snooze
10:33–Google Messages
24:18–Applebee’s and IHOP
25:37–A blue swirl in the sky
01:41–Is AI trying to escape human control?
26:36–Kodak warns it may go out of business
27:36–Sling TV new deals
14:04–Apple’s smart home ambitions
28:13–Waymo’s robotaxis
29:02–Elon Musk calls on corporations to leave Delaware
30:05–Google’s Find Hub
30:50–Microsoft’s new print feature
Robinhood’s RTO
36:18–YouTube users are furious
37:10–DJI Mini 5 Pro
37:51–Samsung’s smart glasses
Facebook outage
38:43–NOAA
39:13–Starbucks in Korea bans electronics
39:37–NY sues Zelle
39:58–Google to spend billions
40:22–Foxconn Q2
41:06–Italian hotels breached

The post The Real AI Threat #1839 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Perplexity AI has been exposed for secretly deploying stealth crawlers that intentionally evade website no-crawl directives, rotate IP addresses, and even masquerade as regular browsers. Despite explicit robots.txt blocks and firewall defenses, Perplexity’s undisclosed bots aggressively scrape restricted content from millions of websites daily. Cloudflare’s investigations confirm this shocking breach of trust, prompting immediate countermeasures against these rogue AI crawlers.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses a significant story that revolves around Perplexity AI. He reports that Perplexity AI has been found to employ stealth crawlers that intentionally bypass website no-crawl directives, rotate IP addresses, and disguise themselves as ordinary browsers, despite explicit prohibitions against crawling certain websites. This revelation stems from a CloudFlare investigation that highlights Perplexity’s aggressive scraping of restricted content from millions of websites daily, raising ethical and legal concerns.

Cochrane describes this behavior as a blatant disregard for the rules that govern web crawling, and he stresses that such actions will likely fuel ongoing litigation against the company. He shares detailed findings from the investigation, indicating that Perplexity’s undeclared crawlers utilize multiple IPs to evade website blocks, accessing content in violation of established web norms.

He transitions into discussing his own choices regarding website crawling, expressing no issues with bots crawling his sites, while acknowledging that many site owners may prefer to restrict access. He also highlights the transparency expected of well-mannered bots, in contrast to the deceitful tactics employed by Perplexity AI’s crawlers.

After the main discussion, Todd provides updates and news in the tech world, makes a shoutout to GoDaddy, the podcast’s sponsor for over twenty years, and encourages listeners to support the show. He mentions exclusive deals available through GoDaddy, reflecting on successful statistics from the previous month and soliciting support for the ongoing podcast endeavors.

Cochrane shares some personal achievements, such as weight loss and the launch of a new service called GuestMatch.Pro, aimed at connecting guests with podcast opportunities. He touches upon recent technological advancements, including OpenAI’s newest reminders feature in ChatGPT, the disappointing return of Vine under Elon Musk, and unusual items people are permitted to bring on airplanes.

The episode also covers a variety of topics, including Hurricane Space, DJI’s new camera offering, updates from various technology companies, and ongoing cybersecurity issues. Lastly, Todd expresses gratitude to listeners and encourages them to reach out via numerous platforms, wrapping up the episode with details on how to support the podcast financially. He indicates there may be a delay in the next episode’s release due to travel before concluding the show.

OpenAI is giving take a break messages
21 of the weirdest things brought on an airplane
Amazon might bring ads to Alexa Plus
Weaponized AI
SpaceX launches satellites
Four radioactive wasp nests
ChatGPT on track to reach millions
Kamala Harris
NASA’s new radar
Space hurricanes are real
Ukrainian drone attacks
Palantir
The Apple Watch Series 1
Why does your mind go blank?
Mars says hello
The National Cyber Director
Osmo 360
iPad from 2010-2025
BMW’s next EV
CISA and FEMA
Columbia students made a gel out of yogurt
US became the ransomware capital of the world
Millions still cling to Windows 10
FBI warns of a particular scam
Tesla was found partly to blame for the crash
Android devices hit by fake login RAT
NASA’s “bold breakthrough”

The post Perplexity AI Caught Red-Handed: Secretly Sneaking Past Website Defenses #1838 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Google is now indexing publicly shared ChatGPT conversations, potentially exposing sensitive business information, strategies, and personal details. Marketers and businesses should audit their shared content, educate teams about AI privacy, and take precautions to prevent data leaks. Or is this more of a marketing opportunity?

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In the podcast episode titled “Google Indexing ChatGPT Shared Links – Marketing Opportunity,” host Todd Cochrane discusses a significant development regarding Google indexing publicly shared ChatGPT conversations. He begins with the lead story, highlighting that Google is now indexing these conversations, which raises concerns about potential exposure of sensitive information. He advises marketers and businesses to audit their shared content, educate their teams on AI privacy, and implement precautions to prevent data leaks.

Cochrane introduces the episode, expressing that the initial excitement around this news has been tempered. He explains how Google allows users to create indexable links through ChatGPT, but notes that ChatGPT promptly disabled the indexing feature after the implications became clear. Todd hypothesizes that this indexing could present marketing opportunities, suggesting that users might direct their AI queries to enhance SEO.

As the episode progresses, he provides a detailed example of a marketing document he generated using ChatGPT, indicating the tool’s potential for creating content that could enhance online visibility. Cochrane outlines the implications for digital marketing strategies as he explores the possibilities of using indexed ChatGPT conversations to gain an edge in search engine results.

Cochrane then shifts topics to discuss a range of tech news articles. He covers various subjects, including:

Google is losing its appeal in the case against Epic Games, resulting in changes to Play Store policies.
TikTok is introducing parental controls and other moderation features, raising questions about fact-checking.
YouTube is loosening its profanity rules for monetized videos.
NASA resuming random employee searches amid reports of job cuts.
Minnesota is calling in military cyber forces to address a cyber attack.
A new U.S. initiative encouraging Americans to share their medical data more freely.
Samsung is experiencing significant profit drops in its chip division.
A proposed U.S. pirate site blocking bill.
Amazon is discontinuing specific Alexa skills due to issues.
Apple responding to a DOJ lawsuit affecting the iPhone’s market principles.
DIRECTV’s new channel streaming service at a hefty monthly fee.
Spotify’s implementation of face scanning for age verification in the UK.
A warning from researchers about potential military responses to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites.
Apple is beating Wall Street’s expectations in quarterly earnings.
Google’s Project Zero is adjusting its vulnerability disclosure timeline.
Meta is increasing investments in AI infrastructure.
NASA’s plans for future lunar explorations and Mars helicopter deployments.
The impact of a new U.S. tariff policy on inexpensive imported goods.

Towards the end of the episode, Cochrane expresses gratitude to the podcast’s listeners and supporters, including individual donors, and encourages them to subscribe to the newsletter and consider supporting the show through donations.

Cochrane wraps up the episode by teasing the next show and inviting listeners to engage further. He emphasizes the importance of staying updated through the Geek News Central website and remaining connected with the community.

TikTok introduces new features.
YouTube loosens profanity rules.
Random employee searches at NASA
Minnesota governor calls in the troops
A new digital health information system
Samsung Q1
A new Senate pirate site blocking bill
Amazon yanks Sengled’s Alexa skill
Apple slams DOJ lawsuit
DirecTV
Spotify
Lasers and sabotage
Apple Q3
Google Chrome
Galaxy Z Fold 7 breaks records
Google’s Project Zero
ISS at 25
Meta plans to spend billions on AI
Fake AI images are flooding the internet
Firefly Aerospace
Skyfall
Google Pixel 10
Uber Eats
These new sneakers
Apple Mac users should install this update
Facial recognition software leads to an arrest
AI in schools
Australia bans YouTube accounts for children under 16
Amazon Earning
Figma IPO
Roku Earnings
Exemption to end on low-cost goods.

The post Google Indexing ChatGPT Shared Links – Marketing Opportunity? #1837 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The FBI has issued an urgent warning about “The Com,” a rapidly expanding network of youth aged 11–25 who are engaged in both cyber and real-world crimes. Split into Hacker Com, IRL Com, and Extortion Com, the group commits acts from ransomware attacks to child sextortion and swatting-for-hire. These crimes are often fueled by motives such as profit, revenge, ideology, and notoriety. Authorities emphasize the group’s growing threat and urge vigilance, particularly for youth who are targeted via social media and gaming platforms.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane opens with a significant alert from the FBI regarding a youth cybercrime group known as “The Com.” This group, consisting of individuals aged eleven to twenty-five, is engaged in a variety of cyber and real-world crimes, including ransomware attacks, sextortion, and swatting. The FBI has identified three subgroups within The Com: Hacker Com, IRL Com (In Real Life Com), and Extortion Com.

Cochrane examines the motivations behind these crimes, which include profit, revenge, ideology, and a desire for notoriety. He emphasizes the alarming growth of this network, particularly among minors, and the need for vigilance among parents and guardians. Cochrane stresses the importance of open conversations between adults and youth to prepare them for potential dangers, especially in light of activities like sextortion targeting underage individuals.

He elaborates on the activities of each subgroup within The Com. Hacker Com is involved in cyber-related crimes, such as identity theft and ransomware. At the same time, IRL Com has gone beyond digital means to include swatting and kidnapping for profit. Extortion Com is particularly concerning as it systematically targets vulnerable populations, including underage girls and those with mental health issues, often grooming them through seemingly trusting relationships before manipulating them into harmful behaviors.

Cochrane encourages parents to ensure that their children feel safe discussing any online interactions, regardless of the circumstances. He notes that the digital landscape poses significant risks and that young people are increasingly part of these cybercriminal activities, which should be a cause for concern.

After presenting this urgent topic, Todd gives a shout-out to GoDaddy, the episode’s sponsor, offering exclusive deals and encouraging listeners to support the show by visiting the provided links. He also shares updates on his upcoming travels and events, including his plans to attend Podcast Movement in Dallas and speak at a podcasting conference in Madrid.

The episode concludes with various tech news highlights, including discussions about Samsung’s deal with Tesla for chip manufacturing, Microsoft’s upcoming earnings, and potential issues with NASA’s anticipated employee changes. Cochrane emphasizes the importance of security and issues warnings about ongoing cyber threats, including hackers targeting critical infrastructure through social engineering techniques.

Finally, he encourages listener engagement via email, social media, and the show’s website, emphasizing the community aspect of the podcast. He concludes by reminding listeners to remain vigilant against cybercriminals and teasing the next episode, underscoring his commitment to delivering relevant and engaging content on the ever-evolving tech landscape.

14:20–Everyone’s a loser
09:59–Samsung wins a deal
Scattered Spider
16:50–Microsoft servers hacked
Apple and Google
21:06–NASA and SpaceX
12:05–Sen. Hassan wants to hear from SpaceX
22:09–Microsoft has to report its earnings out of the park
23:09–NASA may lose employees
00:03–The Com
23:44–‘Impossible hill to climb’
25:13–Areoflot aeroflops
26:41–OSS Rebuild
29:01–NASCAR
29:49–A dangerous WordPress plugin
30:49–Android earthquake alerts
31:43–Trump drops export controls
32:50–Trapped by moon dust
34:19–These iPhone rumors
34:42–The Tea
35:27–Allianz Life
35:52–VPNs top app store charts
36:55–Antigravity
37:25–New Google Pixel phones and more
37:55–Google Maps
Apple makes changes
29:41–Amazon Fresh in Philly
38:53–A man caught naked was awarded thousands

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Fifty years ago, Bill Gates and Paul Allen’s agreement with MITS for a BASIC interpreter for the Altair 8800 microcomputer marked the founding of Microsoft, profoundly influencing the world of personal computing. This collaboration transformed technology, paving the way for PCs, Microsoft’s global dominance, and the eventual rise of Linux and modern computing ecosystems.

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In this episode titled “50 Years of Microsoft: How the Altair 8800 and BASIC Revolutionized Computing,” host Todd Cochrane reflects on the historical impact of the agreement made fifty years ago between Bill Gates and Paul Allen with MITS to provide a BASIC interpreter for the Altair 8800 microcomputer. He sets the stage by introducing the significance of this collaboration, which propelled Microsoft’s influence in personal computing and laid the foundational work for the development of modern technology.

Cochrane discusses the technical aspects of the Altair 8800, highlighting its modular design and the affordable entry it provided for hobbyists compared to more expensive workstations of the time. He reminisces about his own experiences with early personal computers, such as the TRS-80 and the Apple machine, recalling the limitations of technology back then and how it has evolved.

He welcomes listeners to the episode, expressing excitement about the milestone anniversary of the deal made by Gates and Allen. Shifting to current topics, he shares advertisements for sponsorship from GoDaddy, encouraging listeners to support the podcast.

Cochrane then transitions into the news segment, highlighting several articles, starting with the potential release of GPT-5 by OpenAI. He briefly comments on the difficulties faced in referencing articles for news preparation due to paywalls and suggests considering alternate sources.

Continuing with the news, the discussion includes:

– A proposed bipartisan bill aimed at protecting copyrighted content from being used without consent in AI training.
– Incident reports involving Starlink’s outage impacting users and the security vulnerabilities in various printer models due to hacking risks.
– Alphabet’s increased revenue is driven by AI and cloud demand, alongside Lyft’s app enhancements.
– Updates on various tech developments, including significant satellite launches, daring weather technologies, and Apple’s new service offerings, interspersed with Cochrane’s personal anecdotes and audience engagement reminders.

Cochrane also shares personal updates, mentioning challenges with his home technology, including a full hard drive that affects his Bitcoin node. He highlights recent support received from listeners and discussions on various tech news articles from different sources.

In the latter part of the episode, Cochrane reflects on generational reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT for decision-making and how it affects individual agency. He describes the impact of AI on work efficiency but raises concerns about overdependence, which could lead to potential learning deficits.

The episode concludes with Cochrane offering guidance on securing devices and staying informed about technology trends, and encouraging support for the podcast through donations. He promises to be back with more content for listeners and invites questions or comments through various channels.

Towards the end, there’s a reiteration of appreciation for audience support, thanks to his sponsors, and a final call to action encouraging engagement with the show. He concludes with well wishes for the weekend before signing off.

- 18:02–Lyft announces new tools
- 20:32–NVIDIA AI chips sold in China
- 22:10–T-Mobile’s Starlink satellite service
- 23:29–Clorox sues Cognizant
- 24:03–DJI’s first robot vacuum
- 25:34–AppleCare One
- NY seeking public opinion
- 29:21–SpaceX
- 30:39–Why home internet beats 5G
- 32:20–Sam Altman
- 37:41–Microsoft SharePoint attack
- 38:06–iRobot’s new Roomba
- 17:24–Alphabet Q2
- 38:40–An AI-powered weather forecaster
- 39:58–Google Assistant has been having a rough few weeks
- 15:27–Update your printer!
- 00:00–Bill Gates and Paul Allen
- 40:33–Dior
- The AI Accountability and Personal Data Protection Act
- 41:13–Tesla
- 42:22–Intel
- 43:03–Google’s tool for trying on clothes

The post 50 Years of Microsoft: How the Altair 8800 and BASIC Revolutionized Computing #1835 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Google DeepMind’s advanced Gemini Deep Think AI has reached a milestone by solving five out of six problems at the 2025 International Mathematical Olympiad, achieving gold-medal status. Unlike previous models, Gemini operated entirely in natural language and within official time limits, highlighting substantial progress in AI mathematical reasoning and proof-generation capabilities.

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In episode 1834 of the podcast, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the lead story discusses Google’s DeepMind and its advanced version of Gemini, which achieved gold medal status at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). This significant milestone was reached by solving five out of six problems in the competition, showcasing substantial advancements in AI mathematical reasoning and proof generation capabilities.

Cochrane explains that the IMO is a prestigious competition for pre-university mathematicians held annually since 1959, where elite teams represent their countries. Typically, only the top half of contestants earn medals, with around 8% receiving gold. The advanced Gemini model scored 35 out of a possible 42 points, with solutions praised for their clarity and precision, signalling an improvement over previous entries.

In describing the model’s capabilities, Cochrane emphasizes that this is not merely a language model but a reasoning model capable of complex computational thinking. The training involved novel reinforcement learning techniques and access to a curated corpus of high-quality mathematics solutions, along with extra guidance on tackling problems.

Cochrane notes that the model isn’t currently publicly available and is being released to only a select group of individuals. He anticipates that further advancements will continue to emerge in AI and mathematics.

After welcoming listeners to the episode, Cochrane shares a sponsored message from GoDaddy, highlighting exclusive deals for listeners. He encourages audience interaction, urging them to subscribe on their favorite podcast app and to visit associated websites for more content and updates.

Next, Cochrane presents additional stories, including a coding contest where a human programmer triumphed over an AI model, marking a temporary win for humanity. He discusses a situation in the UK regarding the government’s potential backing down from demanding backdoor access to Apple’s encryption, which has been affected by pressure from the US government.

Further stories include WhatsApp’s updates to its Windows app, DuckDuckGo introducing a filter to exclude AI-generated images from search results, France investigating X for algorithm manipulation, and amateur radio enthusiasts filling data gaps for hurricane forecasting after a signal was disrupted.

The episode continues with discussions on cyber defense strategies for the US, Tesla’s third-quarter sales incentives, updates from Nvidia regarding the capabilities of their supercomputers, and the implications of fast pairing technology for wireless earbuds.

Cochrane also raises issues involving data breaches affecting 750,000 individuals and tensions between Google and the operator of a large Android botnet. Other updates cover advancements in Windows 11 performance, Fitbit’s ongoing issues, and increasing warnings to Amazon Prime users about phishing scams.

He concludes by inviting listeners to support the podcast via GoDaddy promotions before teasing upcoming episodes and wishing everyone well. The episode concludes with a reminder to engage with the audience and a note of gratitude for listener support.

13:18–France launches criminal probe.
14:45–How to access crucial hurricane data
16:02–The US is to go on the offensive in cyberspace
This ‘violently racist’ hacker
18:02–Tesla’s response to cratering sales?
19:09–A Ring hack?
20:18–South Korea wants to build a moon base
21:05–Google is suing
08:27–A human wins a coding contest….but…
23:16–A new Glen rocket
10:23–The UK and Apple
23:51–Thousands impacted by a data breach
25:01–Nvidia
11:44–WhatsApp
26:00–iOS 26
26:13–Android
12:39–DuckDuckGo
27:09–Alaska Airlines
27:41–Windows 11
28:47–Fitbit
29:05–US courts will overlook AI errors
30:35–T-Mobile
31:11–Amazon Prime
31:49–Earth will spin faster on July 22
DIRECTV
RealPage
“Coldplay” CEO resigns
NJ wind phone

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OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Agent, an advanced AI assistant that performs complex, multi-step tasks by directly controlling a virtual computer. Built with a new model combining capabilities from prior tools, Operator and Deep Research, the agent can automate workflows such as scheduling meetings, preparing presentations, or even submitting weekly office parking requests. The tool, which … Continue reading OpenAI Unveils Game-Changing ChatGPT Agent #1833 →

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TeamGroup has launched the P250Q-M80 SSD, a specialized drive that can physically destroy its flash memory by pressing a button. Designed for defense and critical-use scenarios, the drive features a one-click data destruction circuit, complete with LED indicators and functionality that remains intact even during power loss. Although not record-breaking in terms of speed or … Continue reading Self-Destructing SSD for Ultimate Data Security #1832 →

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xAI’s Grok 4 achieves the highest Artificial Intelligence Index score, outperforming OpenAI, Google Gemini 2.5 Pro, and Anthropic Claude 4 Opus in extensive benchmarks. Grok 4 excels notably in coding, mathematics, and advanced reasoning tasks despite moderate speed and pricing. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. -Get a United … Continue reading Grok 4 Surpasses OpenAI and Google, Now Top AI Model #1831 →

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In today’s creator-centric adult industry, performers shoulder not only on-camera work but also scripting, editing, marketing, and ongoing fan interaction—tasks once handled by studios. To manage the growing workload and sustain subscriber engagement, many turn to AI tools—both mainstream LLMs like ChatGPT and niche solutions like GPTease—to draft scripts, automate responses, plan shoots, and even … Continue reading AI-Driven Revolution in Adult Content Creation #1830 →

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DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm, is accused by a senior U.S. official of supporting China’s military and intelligence services, sharing user data with Beijing, and using Southeast Asian shell companies to bypass U.S. export controls on advanced AI chips. Despite public claims of limited resources, the company reportedly accessed large volumes of restricted Nvidia H100 … Continue reading DeepSeek Accused of Aiding Chinese Military #1829 →

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President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for the sale of TikTok in the U.S. by 90 days, delaying the enforcement of a law mandating its sale or ban due to national security concerns. Despite bipartisan criticism, Trump cited TikTok’s role in his success in the 2024 campaign. ByteDance now has until September 17 to … Continue reading Trump Delays TikTok Ban Again Amid Ongoing Sale Talks and Security Concerns #1828 →

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Anne Wojcicki, founder of 23andMe, has successfully repurchased the genetic testing firm out of bankruptcy through her non-profit TTAM for $305 million, surpassing a prior winning bid from Regeneron. The deal, which excludes the company’s liabilities, may ease public concerns over genetic data transfers, given Wojcicki’s continued leadership. The acquisition still requires court approval, while … Continue reading Anne Wojcicki Reclaims 23andMe in $305M Deal #1827 →

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NASA firmly debunked claims by influencer Laysa Peixoto, who portrayed herself as a career astronaut selected for lunar and Mars missions. Clarifying that Peixoto had no official affiliation, NASA explained she participated only in a student workshop. Additional claims of university credentials were also proven false, intensifying the controversy. -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use … Continue reading NASA Shuts Down Influencer’s False Astronaut Claim #1826 →

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Apple introduces its most extensive design overhaul with Liquid Glass, a transparent, glass-like UI coming to iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, and more. Inspired by visionOS, it adapts to light and dark modes and brings real-time rendering across apps like Safari, Camera, and FaceTime. Developers get early access to APIs to align with … Continue reading Apple Unveils ‘Liquid Glass’ UI for iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe #1825 →

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A bitter political clash exploded between President Trump and Elon Musk, with Trump calling Musk “CRAZY” and vowing to end billions in federal contracts for Tesla, SpaceX, and other Musk-run ventures. The feud stems from Musk’s opposition to Trump’s massive budget bill, which slashes electric vehicle credits. Musk retaliated with accusations, including a shocking Epstein-related … Continue reading Trump Blasts Elon Musk as “Crazy,” Threatens to Cut Billions in Contracts →

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Gen Z increasingly relies on ChatGPT for personal decisions, drawn to its 24/7, judgment-free support. While this trend reflects a shift in how we seek advice, especially in a disconnected, uncertain world, it raises concerns about emotional depth, bias, and over-reliance on AI. The article examines the tool’s benefits for reflection and accessibility, but cautions … Continue reading Gen Z’s Digital Dilemma ChatGPT as a Virtual Life Coach #1823 →

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Google has expanded its Gemini AI in Drive to summarize videos, offering time-saving insights like action items and key updates from footage. With captions enabled, users can interact via a chatbot to extract information without watching the video. Additionally, a new engagement analytics feature shows video views in Drive’s Details panel. -Thinking of buying a … Continue reading Gemini AI Expands Video Summarization in Google Drive #1822 →

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YouTube is integrating Google’s Gemini AI to place ads at the most engaging video moments, making them harder to avoid. This AI-driven tactic identifies “Peak Points” to maximize viewer retention during ad playback, indirectly pushing more users toward YouTube Premium. While ad blockers are being curbed, content creators may benefit from increased ad revenue. -Thinking … Continue reading YouTube’s New Ad Tactics Designed to Extract More Money from Viewers #1821 →

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Apple has appealed to overturn a court ruling in its legal battle with Epic Games. The ruling barred the company from charging developers fees on purchases made outside the App Store. The verdict followed accusations that Apple defied a prior injunction and misused legal privilege to delay the case. The judge also referred Apple’s VP … Continue reading Apple’s Legal Battle with Epic Games Escalates #1819 →

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The Federal Communications Commission is gearing up for a crucial vote on May 22 that could reshape how electronics enter the U.S. market. At the center of the decision is a proposal to ban specific Chinese testing labs from certifying devices like smartphones, game consoles, and cameras—products that must meet safety and technical standards before … Continue reading FCC Targets Chinese Testing Labs Over Security Concerns in US Electronics #1818 →

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Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, pioneer of neural network AI, voices escalating fears about AI’s rapid development. In a CBS News interview, Hinton outlines growing risks, including a 10–20% chance AI could take over, enhanced cyberattacks, authoritarian misuse, and tech companies prioritizing profits over safety. Comparing AI to a dangerous tiger cub, he warns humanity may face … Continue reading AI’s Rapid Development and Growing Risks #1817 →

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NASA and the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel are raising alarms about growing risks to the International Space Station due to structural damage, air leaks, and looming budget cuts. With SpaceX developing a deorbit vehicle, officials stress that the ISS may face an uncontrolled descent unless immediate funding and action are secured. Elon Musk’s call for … Continue reading NASA Issues Dire Warning: Budget Cuts Could Trigger Emergency ISS Deorbit #1816 →

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Alphabet is back in court as the DOJ pushes to break up Google’s search empire, proposing divestiture of Chrome and restrictions on Android and AI use. The trial, overseen by Judge Amit Mehta, is the latest in a series of legal battles over Google’s online search and advertising dominance. Google warns that forced remedies would … Continue reading Google Faces Potential Breakup as DOJ Seeks Antitrust Remedies Over Search Monopoly #1815 →

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Tech stocks swung wildly as Trump reaffirmed global tariff plans, rattling markets after last week’s $1.8 trillion sell-off. Major players like Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, and Nvidia closed higher despite early losses. Apple and Tesla ended in the red, while hopes of tariff delays briefly buoyed sentiment. Wall Street braced for a broader economic fallout, with … Continue reading Impact of Tariffs on Tech Companies’ Stock Performance #1812 →

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TSMC and Intel have reached a preliminary deal where TSMC will help operate Intel’s chip facilities and own a 20% stake in a new joint venture. The agreement, influenced by U.S. efforts to revitalize domestic chip production, may involve TSMC sharing manufacturing techniques and training Intel staff. While still in early stages, the move marks … Continue reading TSMC and Intel’s Partnership #1811 →

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OpenAI’s new image generator has gone viral with Studio Ghibli-style memes featuring public figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump. The tool, part of GPT-4o, allows users to recreate existing images in artistic styles, sparking copyright concerns about training on copyrighted works. Legal experts point out that while the style isn’t protected, how models are … Continue reading ChatGPT’s New Image Model Sparks Additional Copyright Controversies #1810 →

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In an extraordinary breach, a journalist was mistakenly included in a Signal group chat where top Trump officials coordinated upcoming military strikes on Yemen. Using Signal—a public messaging app—rather than burdensome government-secured systems suggests a deliberate choice to avoid painful legacy systems; unless something has changed, I do not think the app is approved for … Continue reading Extraordinary Signal Chat Breach Tops Trump Officials #1809 →

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Apple 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 … Continue reading Apple and Google Push Back Against EU’s Digital Markets Act #1808 →

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NASA 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. … Continue reading US Astronauts Return Home After Nine-Month Stranded Stay on ISS #1807 →

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OpenAI’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 … Continue reading OpenAI Pushes for Copyright Flexibility and Light AI Regulations #1806 →

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A 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 … Continue reading Meta’s Censorship Deal with China #1805 →

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Today, 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 … Continue reading The AGI Standoff Is Already Happening #1804 →

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Today, 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 … Continue reading ChatGPT 4.5 Unveiled and My Experience with it! #1803 →

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WordPress.org escalated its conflict with WPEngine by blocking its servers from accessing vital resources, including plugin updates. Following a dispute over WPEngine’s refusal to pay trademark fees, this move could put user sites at risk by preventing essential updates. WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg argues that WPEngine profits without contributing to WordPress’ development, prompting the block. Users and the WordPress community are divided, with discussions of potential forks emerging.

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In this episode of the podcast hosted by Todd Cochrane, a significant focus is placed on a major conflict within the tech industry involving WordPress.org and WPEngine. The central issue is that WordPress.org has blocked WPEngine’s servers from accessing vital resources like plugins and theme updates. This dramatic action stemmed from WPEngine’s refusal to pay trademark fees, leading to a discussion about the implications for users and the potential for future forks of WordPress.

Todd starts the episode by acknowledging his sponsor, GoDaddy, highlighting exclusive deals for the listeners. He encourages the audience to support the podcast mission by becoming insiders and mentions the ability to interact live with the show through modern podcast apps.

The episode dives into the WordPress.org vs. WPEngine conflict, highlighting the arguments from WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg. According to Mullenweg, WPEngine profits significantly from WordPress without adequately contributing to its development. This dispute has led WordPress.org to restrict WPEngine’s access to essential updates, which has divided users and sparked discussions about the sustainability and ethics of such business models in the open-source community.

Todd also discusses his updates, mentioning his travel plans and some logistics involving his equipment setup for podcasting. He introduces a new piece of equipment he’s excited about, the Rodecaster Video, which he believes will enhance the video quality of his shows.

Throughout the podcast, Todd emphasizes the impact of this conflict on the WordPress community and the broader implications for open-source projects. He discusses potential legal actions and the necessity for businesses like WPEngine to develop independent systems if they are cut off from WordPress.org resources.

Todd concludes the episode with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast through various platforms like email, social media, and the official website, reminding them of the ongoing support from GoDaddy and the deals available through the podcast’s affiliation.

Are you trying to get WI-Fi on a plane?
A fingerprint padlock for food
PayPal
A Robocop TV show
Disney + password-sharing fees
Kristen Bell
DoNotPay
Everything leaving Netflix in October
Chinese hackers infiltrate US internet firms
20% of politicians and staff had email compromised
A NASA astronaut stranded
Mozilla
Most of us still trust passwords
Fubo
Amazon employees don’t want to go back to the office
Google’s AI podcast tool
Businesses are being hit with more mobile phishing
OpenAI’s restructuring
Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+
Eric Adams indicted
IPOs set to extend recovery
Apple removed 60 more VPNs from Russian app store
NASA’s Astrobees
Google Maps
LG Smart TVs bring ads to the screensaver
Victims lose thousands to Google’s Play Store
AB 2426

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Two suspects, Malone Lam and Jeandiel Serrano, were arrested for their roles in a $230 million cryptocurrency heist, laundering the funds using exchanges and mixers. They accessed victims’ accounts through impersonation tactics and laundered the stolen funds to finance a lavish lifestyle. Despite efforts to cover their tracks using privacy coins and VPNs, mistakes in their operational security led to their identification and arrest by the FBI.

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In episode 1768 of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the standout story focuses on a massive $230 million cryptocurrency heist by suspects Malone Lam and Jeandiel Serrano. The duo used sophisticated impersonation tactics to access victim accounts and subsequently laundered the stolen funds through various means to support their extravagant lifestyle. Despite their efforts to stay under the radar using privacy coins, VPNs, and other security measures, operational mistakes led to their identification and arrest by the FBI.

During the episode, Todd emphasizes the suspects’ lavish expenditures, including luxury cars and high-end watches, which played a role in their eventual capture, as their flamboyant lifestyle contrasted sharply with their income level. Todd further discusses the implications of such heists on the security of digital assets and the importance of robust operational security measures.

The podcast also includes a significant spot for Geek News Central’s sponsor, GoDaddy, highlighting special deals and underlining their long-term support for the podcast. Todd navigates various technical mishaps and provides personal anecdotes, including updates on his home security enhancements and studio upgrades, which he humorously ties into the broader theme of security and preparedness discussed in the episode.

Plus all of the following stories:

24:45–Jony Ive and Sam Altman
26:32–Do you hate in-person meetings?
29:41–YouTube Premium
16:54–Elon gives up
19:45–Biden administration seeks ban on China
32:46–Starships to Mars
35:41–Google was ordered by a court to uninstall an app
38:22–Qualcomm lays off workforce
38:44–Google TV Streamer
39:39–This AI startup
Apple’s RCS messaging
42:45–iPhone 16 Pro users are experiencing touchscreen issues
44:09–A more expensive iPhone SE
44:58–2 Russians and 1 American head to Earth
09:14–Suspects arrested in Miami
45:59–NHS spend a billion on tech
46:42–Samsung plans to invest in over a billion
47:52–UPS suppliers’ password policy
13:30–Telegram to provide data to the government
23:01–Dell investigating a data breach
22:40–AT&T fined millions

The post Unveiling the $230 Million Crypto Heist #1768 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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A sweeping new study from the FTC has exposed the vast surveillance practices of major social media and streaming platforms. From tracking user data to sharing it without proper safeguards, the findings are troubling – and what’s worse, children and teens are deeply affected. In this podcast episode, I’ll explain how these companies collect your data, why privacy protections are failing, and what changes the FTC recommends to address these serious concerns.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, episode 1767, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the primary discussion revolves around a new FTC study that has exposed extensive surveillance practices by major social media and streaming platforms. Todd starts the episode by outlining how these platforms have been tracking user data and sharing it without robust safeguards. He emphasizes the negative impact of these practices, particularly on children and teens, and discusses the FTC’s recommendations for addressing these privacy concerns.

Todd then thanks the episode’s sponsor, GoDaddy, for highlighting the special deals and discounts available through Geek News Central’s partnership. He expresses gratitude towards the listeners and invites them to engage with the podcast through various platforms.

Segueing into personal updates, Todd talks about his hectic schedule, the updates he is making in his studio, and plans for future podcast episodes, including the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Geek News Central podcast.

As the episode progresses, Todd delves into various news stories and topics. He discusses the implications of foreign entities amplifying local sentiments on social media to sway elections, the introduction of Google TV’s new free channels, the utility of iOS’s Passkeys, and the potential threats from tracking pixels in online advertising.

The episode also covers legislative movements to improve children’s online safety, updates from hacking incidents involving high-profile companies, and new online privacy and data security developments from big tech firms like LinkedIn.

Towards the end of the episode, Todd encourages listener interaction through email and social platforms, reiterates support for the podcast through various subscriptions, and wraps up by thanking everyone for their participation and teasing the next episode’s content.

Throughout the podcast, Todd engages the audience with tech news, personal anecdotes, and listener call-to-actions, maintaining a conversational and informative tone.

18:42–23andMe agrees to the settlement
20:04–Censorship accusations
23:13–Northern Lights Spotted in Colorado
12:24–Sweeping FTC study
23:39–Google’s Password Manager
25:01–Oprah buys back documentary
16:51–X in Brazil
27:24–YouTube’s powerful AI features
30:14–Caught on camera
32:04–Hackers demand millions
32:19–Google employees attempt to hide messages
33:56–KOSA and COPPA
34:55–The EU and Apple
36:09–US citizens can apply for passports online
37:41–MPA adds Amazon Prime Video
38:42–FAA fines SpaceX
40:14–This iOS 18 messages bug
40:52–LinkedIn
41:45–Google TV Freeplay
43:06–Bluesky
44:08–Iranian hackers tried to send Trump leaks

The post The Dark Side of Social Media Surveillance: An FTC Report #1767 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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OpenAI’s latest AI model, codenamed “Strawberry,” has raised concerns about its ability to remember conversations and reason like humans. A Reddit user reported ChatGPT asking personal questions without prior input, sparking debates over AI memory capabilities. Experts warn this innovation may pose risks, including deception and misuse, with calls for legislation to regulate AI development.

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The podcast episode “OpenAI’s New Model and Its Advanced Memory/Reasoning Capabilities,” hosted by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central, focuses primarily on the recent developments concerning OpenAI’s new AI model, codenamed “Strawberry.” The episode addresses significant concerns about this model’s human-like reasoning abilities and memory. These capabilities have sparked debates about AI memory, prompting a Reddit user to report an instance where ChatGPT posed unexpectedly personal questions. This interaction has fueled broader discussions on potential risks, including deception and misuse, and spurred calls for regulating AI development.

Todd discusses his participation in the marketing AI conference MAICON and the overwhelming amount of information presented there, which he likens to “drinking from a fire hose.” He promises to provide more details about the conference. He introduces two key segments for the episode: an easter egg hidden in the video broadcast related to the top tools recommended at the meeting and insights into AI’s impact on search algorithms.

Throughout the episode, Todd also highlights his views on how businesses should adapt to rapid developments in AI technology. He shares personal anecdotes and insights from the conference, emphasizing that businesses need to focus on their branding and customer relationships due to AI’s transformative potential.

Aside from the AI discussions, Todd gives updates on the Podcast’s sponsorship by GoDaddy, including deals and discounts for listeners. He also shares his experiences and routine updates, discussing his recent clearing out activities during “phase three,” his organizational efforts, and plans for future podcasts.

The episode covers many topics but stays firmly anchored on the implications of advanced AI developments and the necessary strategic adjustments for businesses and content creators.

The post OpenAI’s New Model and Its Advanced Memory/Reasoning Capabilities #1766 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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At Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event, the tech giant revealed the iPhone 16 series, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4. The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces a sleeker design and brighter display, while the iPhone 16 Pro models feature advanced camera controls and Apple Intelligence. AirPods 4 offers enhanced audio with the H2 chip and a new ANC open-ear design. Apple also updated the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and AirPods Max with new color options and USB-C charging.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane covers various topics, primarily kicking off with Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event, where the company unveiled the iPhone 16 series, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4. Todd provides detailed descriptions of these new Apple products, highlighting their innovative features like advanced camera controls, Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16 Pro models, and enhanced audio capabilities in the AirPods 4.

Todd then transitions into a mix of sponsorship messages and podcast updates, emphasizing deals and special offers from GoDaddy, Geek News Central’s primary sponsor. He talks about various service deals from GoDaddy that listeners can benefit from and encourages audience participation and support through different channels associated with Geek News Central.

Next, Todd shifts to a brief studio update, giving personal insights into his recent residential and studio organization and hints at his upcoming travel plans to a tech event.

The episode covers a variety of tech and digital media stories, including SpaceX’s growing satellite constellation, new developments in AI, and legal battles in the tech world involving Google and ad-tech monopolies. Todd discusses these points in detail, offering his perspective on how these may impact the tech landscape.

Additionally, Todd delves into safety concerns related to battery-powered devices on planes, highlighting recent statistics and FAA alerts about the incidences of thermal runaways in passenger devices.

Towards the end of the episode, Todd talks about an upcoming Netflix event, “Geeked Week. ” He details the lineup and what to expect from this virtual event.

Concluding the podcast, Todd talks about a peculiar scientific experiment involving a common food dye that can make a mouse’s skin transparent, sharing his intrigue and confusion about the implications of such a discovery.

Throughout the episode, Todd maintains a direct connection with his audience by inviting feedback and participation, reinforcing the community aspect of Geek News Central. The episode blends tech news coverage, personal anecdotes, and listener engagement tactics centered around the podcast’s community.

09:45–Apple’s iPhone 16 event
20:25–Battery-powered devices are overheating more often
24:14–Netflix Geeked Week
25:24–Sony’s new high-end 4k projectors
27:00–A tower of plasma erupts
27:36–You can make your own ‘GPU purse.’
30:33–300,000 impacted by data breach
31:44–PayPal teams up with Shopify
30:56–Cisco’s merch store targeted by dangerous malware
32:25–Mozilla extends support for Firefox
33:25–Audible to start generating AI voice replicas
14:30–Elon now controls 2/3 of all active satellites
34:45–AI bills can blow out by 1000%
35:55–MI6 and the CIA
16:07–US v. Google
38:25–DOJ asks 3D printing company to stop printing devices
45:10–Ford patents holographic car tech system
46:34–Paramount Plus is beaming up free episodes of Star Trek
48:04–WeTransfer to layoff staff workers
52:08–A food dye can make a live mouse’s skin transparent
48:21–Crowdstrike
49:43–Blue Origin

The post iPhone 16 and AirPods 4 Unveiled at Apple Event #1765 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Verizon is acquiring Frontier for $20 billion, aiming to expand its fiber network and compete more effectively with AT&T. The deal will add 2.2 million fiber subscribers across 25 states, extending Verizon’s reach to 10 million customers. The acquisition is a strategic move to accelerate growth and enhance its offerings as Verizon faces slowing revenue. Frontier, which filed for bankruptcy in 2020 and settled with the FTC over misleading speeds, brings valuable assets despite recent challenges.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the main focus is Verizon’s $20 billion acquisition of Frontier. Todd discusses the details and implications of the deal, expressing skepticism and describing the acquisition as potentially problematic, considering Frontier’s past issues, including bankruptcy and an FTC settlement related to service misrepresentations.

Todd begins the episode by discussing the technical details and strategic goals behind Verizon’s decision to purchase Frontier, such as expanding its fiber network and increasing its competitiveness against AT&T. Despite these points, Todd is critical of the move, sharing his view that Frontier may not be a beneficial acquisition and disparagingly referring to the company.

Throughout the episode, Todd also updates listeners on his personal life and adjustments after moving. He details his ongoing process of organizing his new home, which he refers to as “Phase Two,” and plans for “Phase Three,” which involves sorting items in his storage unit. He reflects on taking Labor Day off and balancing work and personal life adjustments.

Tech and cybersecurity news forms a substantial part of the episode. Todd discusses various topics, including the perpetration of a music streaming fraud involving AI, attacks on Planned Parenthood’s IT systems by ransomware groups, discussions on YouTube’s policies towards fitness videos for teenagers, and a cyber attack on Planned Parenthood. Additionally, Todd delves into Google’s exploration of AI in job interview processes, new AI detection tools by YouTube, a treaty regarding AI and human rights, and other cybersecurity incidents.

Todd highlights updates and insights regarding new products and updates like Samsung’s latest Galaxy Book, discussions on Bill Gates’s perspective on AI, and a call for more transparent consumer information on the lifespan of smart devices.

Additionally, Todd discusses broader technology dynamics, such as updates on Bluetooth technology, market dynamics involving PayPal and Amazon, and issues surrounding content moderation on platforms like META concerning political content.

The episode is interspersed with personal anecdotes, shoutouts to sponsors including a recurring sponsorship with GoDaddy, listener interactions through emails, and updates on personal projects and Todd’s engagement with his audience through various digital channels.

In summary, this episode of Geek News Central covers a wide range of topics, from high-profile corporate acquisitions and technology updates to personal anecdotes and listener interactions. It is anchored by Todd Cochrane’s detailed discussion of Verizon’s acquisition of Frontier.

12:22–Cyberattack hits Planned Parenthood
39:23–Apple’s chatbot
13:25–Waymo
14:49–YouTube restricts teenagers’ access to fitness videos
17:50–YouTube developing AI tools
21:44–UK signs AI safety treaty
25:34–Internet Archive loses appeal
30:03–Samsung’s new Galaxy Book 5 Pro
31:25–Bill Gates has a good feeling about AI
34:43–FTC and smart devices
37:30–US and Russian election interference
41:05–Two Nigerians sentenced to prison
42:25–Bluetooth 6.0
43:32–iPhone 16 buyers
43:48–The FCC has finally banned Kaspersky
44:06–North Korean hackers target job seekers
44:51–Blue Origin drone ship arrives in Port Cavernal
45:42–Predator spyware resurfaces
45:58–AT&T sues Broadcom
46:20–Meta’s Oversight Board
48:36–X faces a lawsuit
08:12–Verizon buys Frontier for billions
10:16–Musician charged with music streaming fraud
50:15–PayPal
51:25–Amazon congratulates itself

The post Verizon’s $20 Billion Gamble on Frontier #1764 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple is discussing investing in OpenAI in a new fundraising round that could value the ChatGPT maker at over $100 billion. Venture capital firm Thrive Capital is leading the round, with Apple and Microsoft expected to participate. This move would strengthen Apple’s AI initiatives, particularly its integrating OpenAI technology into Apple Intelligence, which enhances Siri and other AI-driven features.

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In episode 1763 of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the leading story discussed explores Apple’s potential billion-dollar investment in OpenAI. It emphasizes the implications for Apple’s AI strategy and services like Siri. This could significantly value OpenAI at over $100 billion.

The episode then moves into routine acknowledgments and sponsor recognitions, with Todd giving a comprehensive plug for GoDaddy, Geek News Central’s principal sponsor. He explains various offers and deals from GoDaddy, suggesting listeners use promo codes on the Geek News Central website to make purchases that benefit the show financially. He smoothly discusses studio updates, including equipment changes to improve recording quality and aesthetics.

Todd delves into various tech news stories following the technical and sponsorship details. He speaks about Spectrum being ranked top reliable internet provider and OpenAI’s user growth. This segment expands into discussions about controversial AI regulations, security vulnerabilities in surveillance, and innovations like a robot controlled by mushroom-derived electrical signals. Each of these topics is covered briefly, with external references left unspecified.

Another substantial part of this episode pertains to Todd’s interaction with current events, including legislative actions towards AI and the role of AI in streamlining police reporting, with a story about AI-generated police reports based on body camera footage. Moreover, Todd shares his experiences and tweaks related to studio reorganization and updates following a recent move. He includes personal anecdotes and tidbits about ongoing projects and logistical challenges.

In closing, Todd circles back to listener engagement, encouraging feedback on the episode’s content and informing new listeners about the show’s dynamics and how they can support through time, talent, or treasure. He reminds them to subscribe and participate in community features available through the podcast’s digital platforms. Finally, he signs off with gratitude towards the listeners and sponsors, setting the stage for the next episode.

19:19–A top surveillance camera has a significant flaw
12:10–Spectrum was named the most reliable internet provider
21:34–Indiegogo will offer refunds
25:23–Biohybrid robots
26:32–TikTok lawsuit
10:22–Apple in talks to invest in OpenAI
15:14–Nvidia’s business is growing faster
17:06–Controversial California bill
34:35–Google’s Gemini
28:59–Brit teachers are getting AI sidekicks
30:28–Telegram lied about user numbers
14:21–ChatGPT usage has doubled since last year
32:11–Brain Cipher claims attack on Olympic venue
33:33–Galaxy S25 Ultra
34:30–Everything leaving Hulu in September
35:32–Iranian cybercriminals are targeting US defense targets
36:34–DJI Neo
37:33–Online scam cycles
42:00–The ‘worlds first’ titanium electric toothbrush
43:20–Google Chrome
44:03–Wyze’s AI
45:30–OpenAI and Anthropic
46:28–Chatbots offer cops the “ultimate out” to spin police reports
48:35–Bluesky
48:54–Trump claims Zuckerberg plotted against him
50:43–Klarna swaps humans for AI
51:33–Verizon teams up with another satellite operator
52:43–X labeled an unflattering NPR story about Trump
53:05–Meta’s Oversight Board
53:33–Yelp sues Google
54:43–CrowdStrike Q2
55:43–Dick’s discloses cyberattack
56:16–The Healthcare Cybersecurity Act
57:35–Tumblr is moving blogs to WordPress
58:33–The iPhone 17 lineup

The post Apple Considers Major Investment in OpenAI Amid AI Race #1763 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The recent arrest of Pavel Durov, Telegram’s founder, has sparked concerns about whether it is a justified move against illegal activities or a dangerous overreach threatening privacy and free speech. The vague charges, including issues around encryption, complicity in illegal activities, and refusal to cooperate with law enforcement, raise more questions than answers, leaving doubts about the legitimacy of the arrest.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses the arrest of Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, the lead topic for episode 1762. Todd opens by expressing concerns over whether the arrest is a justified action against illegal activities or an overreach threatening privacy and free speech. He highlights the vagueness of the charges against Durov, which include issues related to encryption, alleged complicity in illegal activities, and a refusal to cooperate with law enforcement.

Following the introduction, Todd acknowledges the episode’s sponsor, GoDaddy, highlighting some promotional offers and reflecting on the longevity and impact of their sponsorship. He then mentions the importance of the listener community and how they can contribute to the podcast.

Todd shares personal stories from his recent trip to Washington, DC, where he attended Podcast Movement event and discussed his experiences visiting various memorials. He recounts a poignant conversation with his Uber driver, an Afghan translator, reflecting on the challenges faced by those left behind after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Shifting focus back to the main topic, Todd delves deeper into the implications of Durov’s arrest. He discusses the potential political motivations behind the arrest, comparing the situation to broader concerns about privacy and government overreach in technology.

Further in the episode, Todd touches on various topics related to the tech industry, such as NVIDIA’s upcoming earnings report, California’s AI bill on watermarking synthetic content, and Apple’s new iPhone launch. He also mentions SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission and its objectives, offering updates on other space-related news involving Blue Origin and its upcoming ventures.

Throughout the episode, Todd intersperses updates about his personal life and ongoing projects, including moving and organizing his new space. He wraps up by inviting feedback from listeners and directing them toward ways to support and engage with the podcast through various platforms and initiatives.

The episode offers a blend of technology news, personal anecdotes, critical discussions on privacy, and community engagement, framed within the broader context of current events in technology and their implications on society.

Telegram Founders Arrest
French Government not Involved?
Nvidia Earnings Coming
OpenAi Supports California Bill
Apple iPhone 16 Event Announced
Polaris Dawn Mission to Launch
Juice Flyby
Windows Control Panel Demise
Batteries Added to Electric Grid in Record Numbers
Blue Origin Maiden Flight to go in October
New Mac Malware
Firefly Lunar Lander
Reporter can handle 1 day as a fake ISS Astronaut
Linux malware Un-detected for two Years
Boeing CEO faces significant challenges
Frontier 7GB Fiber Internet?
IBM is Leaving China!
FlightAware reveals user data by mistake
Bing tells Reporter he is a Criminal
Sonos disappoints again
Apple Mac Mini M2 on Sale
Uber hit with Ridiculous European Fine
Nvidia Millionaires cant get time off
23 Million Americans Internet Bills Go Up
China Gains Access to Nvidia Banned Chips by Renting Compute

The post Arrest of Pavel Durov: Justified Action or Overreach #1762 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Recently revealed internal documents from Google were entered into evidence in a U.S. antitrust trial, exposing the company’s data strategies from seven years ago. These documents highlight Google’s intense focus on user data collection, privacy concerns, and strategic weaknesses in the face of competition. The revelations, which include candid discussions about data usage for advertising and fears over Google’s privacy, underscore the ongoing scrutiny of the tech giant’s practices.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane kicks off from the brand-new studio, diving into a series of significant news stories. The lead story revolves around recently surfaced Google documents from an antitrust trial. These documents revealed Google’s aggressive data strategies from seven years ago, highlighting its focus on data collection and advertising strategies, plus internal concerns over privacy.

Todd discusses Google’s ongoing scrutiny under the spotlight of these revelations. This forms a substantial portion of the episode, underlining how such practices underscore the perception of users as essentially the product of big tech companies.

Following the lead story, Todd shifts focus to a mix of topics:
– Personal adjustments he’s made to his studio setup
– Technological updates and tweaks, including his setup improvements and the efficiency it brings
– Brief overviews of global tech and cybersecurity incidents, including the case of Kim Dotcom’s extradition
– Commentary on legislative developments affecting digital content and user privacy
– A detailed discussion on new AI technologies and their implications for privacy and data security
– Updates on various satellite projects and how they affect astronomy

Todd also mentions the partnership with GoDaddy, highlighting special deals available through Geek News Central. He encourages listener participation through various modern podcast apps and underlines the value of protecting user privacy in digital consumption.

Todd wraps up by inviting feedback through email and social media channels. He also reminds listeners of the upcoming schedule due to his attendance at an event in Washington, D.C., which will affect the regular podcast programming. The episode is rich with insights into specific technological advancements and issues and offers personal anecdotes and reminders about ongoing promotional partnerships.

7 hidden Ring app settings
What’s next for KOSA
August’s supermoon
British police to test drone flights
Google files documents in antitrust case
Google says it has found Iranian hackers in US presidential election
Kim Dotcom extradited to the US
Columbus, Ohio, Mayor says ransomware attackers stole data
BenQ’s ceiling projector
Microsoft rolls out Face Check
Satellite interference with astronomy
T-Mobile hit with a $60 million fine
Lenovo Q1
Cisco cuts job workforce
Twitter pays a quarter of a million dollars
Apple is working on an iPad-like tabletop device
Meater Pro XL
A Russian man gets 40 months in jail
DHS will collect face scans of migrant kids
Google’s ex-CEO Blamed Work from home for AI stumbles
Kim Kardashian is back with new Beats
NASA pushes Starliner decision to August
A fake political group banned on Facebook
SAG-AFTRA AI deal

The post Google Documents Reveals You Truly Are the Product #1761 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple presses Patreon to enforce its in-app purchase system, forcing creators to raise prices or absorb additional fees. This move highlights Apple’s uneven application of App Store rules, which were previously criticized in antitrust cases. Now coerced into compliance, Patreon must transition all creators by 2025, despite the company’s preference for a more gradual approach. Creators can avoid fees by directing subscribers to non-iOS platforms, but Apple’s strong-arm tactics still put them in a tough spot.

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In this episode of the “Geek News Central” podcast hosted by Todd Cochrane, the main topic concerns Apple pressuring Patreon to enforce its in-app purchase system. Todd starts the episode by discussing how this move by Apple forces creators on Patreon to either raise their prices or absorb the fees, highlighting the tech giant’s unequal application of App Store rules, which had been previously criticized in antitrust cases. Patreon is tasked with transitioning all creators to comply by 2025 despite preferring a more gradual approach. Todd mentions that creators can avoid Apple’s fees by directing subscribers to non-iOS platforms, though the tactic doesn’t fully alleviate the pressure they face from Apple’s strategies.

Following the discussion on Patreon, Todd introduces his newly rebuilt studio and thanks the episode’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy. He spends some time explaining the new setup in his studio and the modifications he’s made and invites listener feedback on the new settings, including the audio and visual elements of the podcast.

Transitioning back to tech news, Todd then delves into several topics, touching on the security breach involving Twitter’s former CEO, a possible class-action settlement concerning Cash App, and a new treaty drawn up by the United Nations to combat cybercrime. He also discusses further technological developments, such as Google’s introduction of new features in its authentication app, advances in electric train systems in California, and an expanded agreement between Universal Music and Meta. Somewhere in between, Todd shares a brief reflection on the late Susan Wojcicki, former CEO of YouTube, reminiscing about her impact on the tech industry.

The episode concludes with a call to listeners to participate in the podcast by becoming a GNC Insider, reminding them of the available sponsorship deals at GoDaddy and encouraging feedback via social media and email. Todd emphasizes the importance of community involvement and looks forward to the next episode. Throughout the show, recurring themes touch upon the rapid progression of technology and how these advancements intersect with daily lives and corporate business strategies.

19:27–Nextdoor’s expanded AI
14:40–Billions of people may have been compromised in data breach
21:12–YouTube
22:35–Millions of AMD CPUs vulnerable to hacks
30:02–The cheapest Tesla Cybertruck is $99,990.00
27:08–Thousands of Google Chrome browsers are at risk
Kamala Harris ‘AI’d’ her rally crowd size
33:34–Massive asteroid to brush past Earth
28:41–These smart vacuums and mowers can be hacked
30:45–US utilities poised to ride data center demand wave
11:54–Apple and Patreon
26:28– An attacker steals personal data of thousands of people
33:20–YouTube Music
33:50–Mars and Jupiter
34:21–SpaceX launches satellites
46:47–Paid Apple Intelligence features
46:58–Is your PC slowing down?
47:19–Google Home app gets an overhaul.
47:32–The UN is drawing up a new treaty
52:19–OpenAI and ChatGPT -4o
35:08–NASA watchdog finds quality control problems
48:16–Google Authenticator
Human-made debris left behind in outer space
28:03–Microsoft unveils potentially serious Office security flaw
48:42–Incredible phone charging tech will be revealed
49:46–Electric trains?
18:15–Trump’s re-election campaign claims victim of cyber attack
53:29–RIP Susan Wojcicki
16:47–CrowdStrike president wins ‘Epic Fail’ Pwnie award
50:35–UMG and Meta
51:20–Twitter’s former chairman sues X

The post Apple’s Strong-Arms Patreon – Creators Lose #1760 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Microsoft’s latest update to Bing introduces AI-generated answers that take priority on the search results page. Traditional search results are now displayed in a smaller panel to the side. This change leverages large and small language models to match content and enhance user query fulfillment dynamically. While the update aims to improve efficiency, it raises concerns about the visibility of non-AI results. Microsoft plans to monitor the impact of this new layout, which is currently available to a limited audience.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane opens with Microsoft’s significant AI-driven update to Bing that prioritizes AI-generated answers in its search results, potentially impacting the visibility of traditional search results. Todd articulates his concern that this change could decrease traffic to sites like Geek News Central, as businesses already dependent on search engine traffic for visibility might find it diminishing further.

Todd discusses artificial intelligence’s broader influences, such as its impact on data generation and possible outcomes like information overload or data degradation due to recursive learning models. In this phenomenon, excessive AI content can lead AI models to generate nonsensical outputs. A University of Oxford study emphasizes concerns over AI’s sustainability in training future models.

The episode shifts gears towards corporate AI developments, including Amazon’s efforts to create cheaper and more efficient AI chips to rival Nvidia’s, potentially significantly shifting economic dynamics within tech industries. Todd touches on the controversies around CrowdStrike, which faced backlash for offering a mere ten-dollar Uber Eats gift card to apologize for a significant service outage.

Todd provides a roundup of tech industry news, covering diverse topics, from Tesla’s promised innovations and Google Chrome enhancing security measures against malicious files to Max’s focused streaming feature. He also covers environmental issues related to eCommerce warehouse pollution and legislative actions affecting tech platforms like Facebook and Meta.

Notably, Todd discusses the traditional funding segment for Geek News Central, acknowledging sponsors such as GoDaddy while encouraging listeners to participate through financial contributions or “boosting” the podcast via new podcast apps aligned with the value-for-value model. He highlights the importance of listener support in maintaining independent content production.

Finally, Todd concludes the episode by sharing some personal updates, including travel plans and upcoming projects like building a new studio. The tone throughout the episode blends technical insight with personal anecdotes and listener engagement strategies, maintaining a connection with his audience while unpacking complex AI and technology issues.

23:48–What’s new on Paramount+ with Showtime
11:09–Amazon is racing to develop AI chips
14:23–Six ways Tesla is promising to change the world
15:42–A faster Gemini model
20:17–Coast-to-coast in a solar-powered car
21:20–Adobe executive compared fees to ‘heroin.’
22:07–UFO spotted moving across the Moon
22:46–SpaceX and Starlink satellites
07:03–Bing has been revamped
Everything new on Max
25:38–Chinese hackers target Mac users
26:46–E-commerce is driving up pollution
28:11–Meta to be hit with a fine
AI models face collapse
28:51–Amazon Prime Video
Google boosts Chrome protections
30:53–Cyberattacks are more common than ever
31:42–Proposed NASA cuts
32:24–Elon Musk
24:43–Watch Max with friends?
33:23–Microsoft could add more ‘suggestions.’
34:01–Butterflies use an electric charge to pull pollen
34:56–iOS 18
35:28–GitHub accounts used for malware distribution
12:17–Crowdstrike is offering a $10 gift card as an apology
36:37–GM drops plans for robotaxi
23:57–The Disney+ Hulu and Max bundle
37:06–Lawmakers ask Meta to delay shutting down CrowdTangle
38:42–Kaspersky and the federal government

The post Microsoft Bing’s Major AI Shift: What It Means for Search Traffic #1756 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The ongoing fallout from CrowdStrike’s recent software update has forced Delta to cancel over 1,250 additional flights, affecting tens of thousands of passengers. The faulty update, which caused a logic error leading to an OS crash, has impacted 8.5 million Windows devices, disrupting airlines, healthcare, and other public services. Despite initial resistance, airlines must now cover costs for stranded travelers as mandated by law. Efforts to resolve the issue are underway, with CrowdStrike and Microsoft collaborating on a fix.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane covers a variety of tech stories, leading with the significant fallout from CrowdStrike’s problematic software update. Todd explains that Delta Airlines had to cancel over 1,250 flights on Monday, days after the logic error resulting from the update, affecting 8.5 million Windows devices. This disruption has spread across various sectors, including airlines and healthcare, forcing airlines to cover costs for stranded travelers as mandated by law. Todd emphasizes the ongoing efforts of CrowdStrike and Microsoft to resolve the issue.

Next, Todd engages with listeners by providing an update on podcast sponsorship deals by GoDaddy, encouraging them to support the platform by becoming GNC insiders and discussing his plans for upcoming studio renovations after returning from an extensive trip abroad. He shares his anecdotes about the different studios he’s set up after his military service and reflects on his podcast journey and setup changes over the years.

The host then transitions to discussing a myriad of technology-related stories involving various topics like:
– Pirated movies on YouTube.
– NASA’s findings.
– A controversy involving Kanye Nass accusing a startup of plagiarism.
– A cybersecurity issue involving DJI and plans for its new Mavic drone.
– A streaming bundle excluding Netflix.
– Financial statistics from car-sharing and streaming services.
– Issues surrounding online child safety.

Todd also dives into regulatory actions affecting companies like AT&T and TracFone and advertisements affecting consumers’ experiences online. He delves into the consequences of cyberattacks on government infrastructure and concludes with advancements in AI technology being tested in UK hospitals for prostate cancer detection.

Throughout the episode, besides the main tech discussions, Todd shares talks about setting up a new studio in his loft, and other personal elements of his life that relate to his work in tech and media, drawing on his experiences to connect with his listeners on a more personal level.

12:25–Conde’ Nast
13:18–Pirated movies flood YouTube
14:24–NASA warns of an asteroid
15:01–OLED TVs are not keeping you awake
16:07–DJI Mavic 4
18:15-The Curiosity rover is crushing it
19:22–Microsoft is trying to improve browsers
20:13–In the UL 4K, Blu-ray sales are rising
21:14–Trump’s win wouldn’t stop the EV transition
A man convicted for ‘sextortion’
10:36–Burglars are jamming WI-Fi cameras
24:16-]-Biden gives billions
24:47–AT&T wireless outage in February
25:32–Tracfone Wireless settles with the FCC
26:14–AI fakes
26:58–iPhone SE 4
CrowdStrike share slide
27:35–Verizon reports losses
28:08–Apple possibly underreporting child sex abuse
09:28–Windows 11
29:21–Musk doubles down on promises
30:13–Rivian and CarPlay
06:48–CrowdStrike outage affects Delta flights
30:36–Two Russians sanctioned over cyberattacks
31:25–“Pay or Consent”
31:51–A Facebook prank
32:09–Samsung Messages
32:47–Cybercrooks
33:24–LA County Superior Court closes its doors
34:05–Prostate cancer-detecting AI

The post CrowdStrike Outage continues to cause havoc! #1755 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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More car companies, like Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, charge extra fees to unlock features already built into their vehicles. This controversial practice involves software restricting access to hardware capabilities, such as additional battery range or heated seats, unless customers pay more. Critics argue this approach is exploitative and unoriginal, urging automakers to offer valuable services through genuine software improvements or subscription models.

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In this episode of “Geek News Central,” hosted by Todd Cochrane, the main topic of discussion centers around a controversial practice among car manufacturers like Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, which involves charging extra fees to unlock features already built into their vehicles. Todd Cochrane starts the episode by highlighting this new trend where automakers restrict access to specific hardware capabilities, such as additional battery range or heated seats, through software unless customers pay extra fees. He critiques this practice as exploitative, suggesting automakers incorporate genuine software improvements.

Todd then gives a shout-out to the episode’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy, encouraging listeners to check out special deals on GeekNewsCentral.com. He emphasizes GoDaddy’s long-standing relationship with the podcast and appreciates listener support, inviting them to contribute to it through various platforms.

The episode then shifts to a variety of tech news updates. Todd discusses challenges in the solar power industry, highlighted by SunPower’s downturn, and references government reactions to the security of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity measures. He also talks about updates to Windows 11, aimed at making updates smaller and faster, and touches on integrating AI and multi-modal models in various applications.

Throughout the episode, Todd provides insights into various technological advancements and corporate strategies, such as the unbundling of software updates in Windows, AI developments, and the shifting landscape of solar power investments.

As the episode wraps up, Todd shares some personal anecdotes, including his upcoming travel plans and studio setup challenges, particularly his difficulties with the studio lighting arrangement. He reiterates his appreciation for the audience’s support and participation in the podcast community.

The episode concludes with an interactive segment where Todd encourages listener feedback via email or social media, maintaining the interactive nature of “Geek News Central.”

09:53–Trump shooter’s Steam account
11:04–AI security
12:18–Window 11’s upcoming updates
13:34–SunPower
06:54–Carmakers need to stop locking hardware features
16:18–Tinder’s new AI
17:23–Google Pixel 9 Pro
–Kaspersky challenges US government
19:51–A Raspberry PI is orbiting the Earth
20:47–Cash App Pay and Google Pay
21:12–Immersive video in the Apple Vision Pro
22:00–Is the AI bubble to burst?
23:46–The CD Walkman is back.
24:46–Tesla sales and market shares dip
25:57–AI regulation in the UK
27:23–A dinosaur skeleton sells for millions
27:45–JBL’s new home theater speakers
28:49–SpaceX and the ISS
30:15–Proton is launching an AI tool
30:38–Biden Administration announces $400 million
31:30–Amazon
32:52–SolarWinds
34:16–Apple isn’t using YouTube data
35:25–Cellebrite
37:09–OpenAI 4o Mini
38:26–AppleTV +
38:55–Dyson’s new headphones
39:36–A fireball meteor blazes over NYC
40:08–Microsoft wants you to pay $300 per year
SpaceX and the FAA
41:21–Google Messages

The post Unlocking Vehicle Features: A New Revenue Stream or Consumer Exploitation? #1754 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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AT&T announced a data breach impacting nearly all of its wireless customers, involving call and text interaction records from May 2022 to January 2023. The breach, attributed to hacker John Binns and the ShinyHunters group, led to AT&T paying a $370,000 Bitcoin ransom. The stolen data originated from the Snowflake data storage platform and included metadata but no sensitive personal information. AT&T is notifying affected customers and has noted an individual’s apprehension.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses a significant data breach at AT&T that affected nearly all wireless customers. This breach involved call and text interaction records from May 2022 to January 2023 and was attributed to hacker John Binns and the ShinyHunters group. Todd explains that AT&T ended up paying a $370,000 Bitcoin ransom, and the stolen data included metadata but purportedly no sensitive personal information. He also mentions AT&T’s response, including notifying affected customers and apprehension about an individual connected to the breach.

Todd transitions to sponsor messages, highlighting GoDaddy’s ongoing support and providing details on their current promotions. He then apologizes for the show’s absence the previous Thursday due to travel delays and promises no further interruptions in the upcoming episodes.

The conversation shifts back to the broader implications of the AT&T breach, particularly the hacker’s negotiation from a $1 million ransom to $370,000 and the ongoing risks of data security in large corporations. Todd also touches on other cybersecurity incidents involving companies like Rite Aid and Gemini’s controversial AI platform, discussing consumer privacy and data protection implications.

Lastly, Todd delves into various other tech news topics, including new developments in AI, net neutrality challenges, and updates on Google’s AI capabilities and policies. He concludes with a brief mention of market trends, including growth in smartphone sales and an analysis of Apple’s stock performance.

The episode ends with Todd expressing appreciation for the listeners and their continued support, encouraging them to become insiders through donations or to engage with the podcast through various modern apps and social media platforms.

22:30–AI is a ‘today problem’
24:35–AT&T and Verizon
25:54–This new ransomware
The Trump shooter had a Discord account
27:03–iPhone 16 predictions
27:54–Southwest partners with Archer
28:54–Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL
29:08–A 3D printer in space
30:20–Weak demand for Apple Vision Pro
30:56–The DOJ Antitrust Division
31:56–Google reveals increase in bug bounty awards
4:38–AT&T breach
06:41–Rite Aid data breach
32:43–Apple hits record high again
33:14–The smartphone market has grown by 6%
08:08–Gemini AI
34:02–Shooting conspiracies trend on X
35:21–Chromium browsers
36:23–RIAA sues Verizon
37:53–SpaceX faces turbulence
38:47Jupiter smells of rotten eggs
39:49–Meta and Trump’s pages
40:25–A new cyber defense center
41:01–DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
41:57–OpenAI
11:24–The Robotaxi event has been delayed
11:57–A dirty diaper resold on Amazon
15:57–Sling TV
16:51–YouTube Music
17:53–Net neutrality is in danger again

The post AT&T Data Breach and $370K Bitcoin Ransom Unveiled #1753 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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A new report from Google experts warns that AI-generated content could distort reality and erode trust in digital information. The report highlights the misuse of AI for manipulation and profit, requiring minimal technical skill by bad actors. Google’s own AI Overviews feature faced backlash for inaccuracies, leading to decreased mobile searches. Despite concerns, AI Overviews did see engagement from users which questions is Google now leading the sharing or disinformation. Which raises serious questions

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In this episode of “Geek News Central,” Todd Cochrane, returning from his vacation, dives into various technology and cybersecurity topics. He starts by discussing a new report from Google that raises alarms about AI-generated content potentially distorting reality and eroding trust in digital information. Todd expresses concern over the engagement with Google’s AI Overviews despite its inaccuracies, prompting a reflection on the manipulation and profit motives driven by minimal technical skill requirements in AI use.

Todd then acknowledges GoDaddy as the episode’s primary sponsor and updates listeners on his upcoming travel back to the United States and plans for constructing a new studio.

Transitioning back to technology news, Todd discusses Apple’s delay in revamping Siri AI, NASCAR’s introduction of fully electric stock cars, and the launch of a SpaceX mission to an asteroid named Psyche, which is valued extremely high due to its precious metal content.

Cybersecurity is heavily featured. Todd outlines a major password data leak impacting billions of accounts, a hacked Ethereum Foundation account that led to a phishing scam, a data breach at Microsoft involving SSDs, and concerns over antiquated parts of the UK’s NHS IT infrastructure leading to vulnerabilities.

Todd also touches on recent acquisitions and business moves, including Amazon’s entry into the luxury goods market through an alliance with Neiman Marcus, and details technological advancements such as Samsung’s hints at a dust-resistant folding phone and NASA’s latest Mars simulation mission.

Throughout the episode, Todd emphasizes the significance of verifying and fact-checking digital content in an era where AI-generated data can sometimes be misleading or false. He invites listener feedback on the discussions and provides a roundup of other tech updates, underscoring his commitment to delivering trustworthy content in his podcast.

Closing Thoughts: Todd rounds off by thanking listeners for their support, especially GoDaddy’s long-term sponsorship, and reiterating his commitment to keeping the podcast a source of reliable information in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

The post The Dark Side of AI: Trust and Information in the Digital Age #1752 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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YouTube is negotiating with major record labels like Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Records to license music for its AI tools. The platform, which previously launched the Dream Track feature, aims to expand its AI music capabilities by paying lump sums for song licenses. Despite YouTube’s efforts, artists and labels are wary due to past issues with AI-generated music and the protection of their rights.

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In this episode of “Geek News Central” the lead story discusses YouTube’s ongoing negotiations with major record labels such as Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Records. The platform wants to license music for its AI tools, mainly to run experiments, by offering lump sum payments for song licenses. This initiative is met with skepticism from artists and labels due to past issues concerning AI-generated music and rights protection.

The podcast also covers a variety of other tech-related news:
– A mother uses social media to tackle her student loan debt through a creative business venture.
– Unistellar’s new AR binoculars can identify various celestial and terrestrial objects.
– Connectivity issues faced by Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile customers when traveling internationally.
– Anticipation around Samsung’s upcoming Unpacked event and new releases including potentially a new Galaxy Ring.
– Issues with mobile service providers internationally and a brief mention of telecom strategies.
– Innovations and controversies in tech, including Time magazine’s partnership with OpenAI, character AI’s new feature allowing voice calls with AI avatars, and privacy concerns with Australian banks studying mobile device interactions.
– Legal battles involving technology and data usage, with Coinbase suing federal regulators for denied FOIA requests.
– Developments in drone technology amidst worries about Chinese dominance in the market.
– Google’s decision to discontinue its Stack scanning app, integrating its features into Google Drive.
– The Supreme Court’s stance on governmental interaction with social media companies regarding post removals.
– Speculations about a new large-display Apple Watch potentially being launched.
– Microsoft’s alleged involvement in a data theft at a US hospital.

Todd encourages listeners to contribute to the podcast’s production and value through various means and reminds them of the ongoing GoDaddy sponsorship deals. He concludes by thanking the listeners for their support and promoting the newsletter and the website, where additional resources and links related to the mentioned stories can be found. Lastly, he mentions his upcoming vacation, indicating when the next episode will air.

This mom turned to social media to pay off debt
These smart binoculars
Verizon and AT&T users face problems
Samsung Unpacked 2024
Time and OpenAI
Character.AI
A comet not seen since 1956 to pass by Earth
Australian bank spots scams
Apple pauses work on planned campus
Microsoft blamed for patient records theft
Amazon is reportedly working on its own AI chatbot
Verizon pays a million dollars
Meta’s Oversight Board
Coinbase files lawsuits
Congress waves red flags over Chinese drone dominance
Google is killing a handy tool
SCOTUS and social media
The Apple Watch X
Uber will pay you $1,000
Amazon is valued at $2 trillion dollars
YouTube and AI
SpaceX hired to destroy ISS

The post AI Music Rights Battle & YouTube #1751 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Following a European Union investigation, Apple faces significant fines, potentially up to 10% of its global revenue. The EU’s preliminary findings suggest Apple violated the Digital Markets Act by restricting App Store developers from informing users about alternative payment methods outside Apple’s ecosystem. If found guilty, fines could escalate to tens of billions of dollars, and repeated violations may lead to even higher penalties. This case marks the first regulatory action under the DMA, emphasizing the bloc’s stance on major tech companies’ practices.

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The podcast episode “Apple’s App Store Pricing Antics Could Cost Billions,” hosted by Todd Cochrane on Geek News Central, focuses on significant developments concerning Apple and other tech news. The episode starts with Todd addressing the potential massive fines Apple could face, amounting to ten percent of its global revenue. This stems from a European Union investigation which found preliminary evidence of Apple violating the Digital Markets Act by restricting App Store developers from informing users about alternative payment methods outside Apple’s ecosystem.

Todd gives a comprehensive overview of the investigation and discusses Apple’s implications. He puts into perspective the seriousness of this case by highlighting that it’s the first regulatory action under the DMA, which underscores the EU’s rigid stance on major tech companies’ practices. The discussion extends to anticipating large fines and ongoing global revenue percentage implications if these DMA violations are repeated.

Todd then transitions to mention Geek News Central’s sponsors and their offers before briefly relaying his travel plans and moving back to the topic of tech companies. Following this segment, there’s an extensive discussion on various other tech-related stories:

The price increase of the Paramount Plus service.
Tesla’s new Optimus Gen Two robot and its implications on the labor market.
Deep fake scams are prevalent, particularly one featuring an AI-generated Elon Musk pushing cryptocurrency scams.
An urgent firmware update for Google Pixel phones due to a severe vulnerability.
A significant data breach in the Los Angeles Unified School District impacted many student records.
Netflix’s potential introduction of a free, ad-supported service in markets outside the US.
Recent vandalism on Tesla Cybertrucks and ongoing issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft.
Several intellectual property lawsuits targeting AI music companies using copyrighted materials without authorization.
Concerns around child privacy violations by TikTok and the latest US government sanctions against Kaspersky executives.
A report highlighting inefficiencies in surgical tech, potentially costing hundreds of work hours.
Possible updates across Apple’s Mac lineup to include the new M4 chips.
A claim against NASA by an American family for damages caused by space debris.
Development of an advanced AI chip by ByteDance in collaboration with Broadcom.

Todd closes the episode by urging listeners to participate in Geek News Central’s initiatives and sending personal shoutouts to the contributors and listeners, encouraging them to stay tuned and engage via various channels outlined at the start of the podcast.

14:55–LA school boards data breach
16:14–An ad-supported Netflix service
17:25–Tesla Cybertrucks vandalized
18:13–Starliner to remain docked on the ISS
20:10–The RIAA sues AI music services
22:26–TikTok faces pressure
22:59–12 Kaspersky executives sanctioned
24:24–Surgeons say they’re losing work hours
26:14–Apple’s entire Mac lineup
28:06–NASA sued
29:00–ByteDance working with Broadcom
04:50–Apple and the EU
12:23–Deepfakes about Elon Musk
08:41–Another price increase for Paramount+
10:35–Optimus Gen 2 Robot

The post Apple’s App Store Pricing Antics Could Cost Billions #1750 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Elon Musk has confirmed the release of a new Starlink Mini dish, which will be half the price of the standard model and easily portable in a backpack. Despite its smaller size, the Mini dish promises speeds up to 100 Mbps with 23ms latency. Priced between $250-300, it will be available in select areas soon.

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In episode 1749 of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the main focal story is Elon Musk’s announcement of the new Starlink Mini dish. This dish is affordable, costing between $250-300, and boasts impressive portability and speeds up to 100 Mbps with a 23ms latency. It is designed to be small enough to fit in a backpack, measuring 11 by 9 inches, although it still requires a clear view of the sky. Despite the advantages, Todd points out the high monthly fee of $150, which he feels could be lower.

Following the lead story, Todd transitions to several other significant news topics:
1. U.S. car dealerships were halted due to an incident at CDK Global, a primary software provider.
2. YouTube is reportedly canceling premium memberships for users attempting to pay less by using VPNs in cheaper subscription countries.
3. Dell’s return to the office mandate is causing unrest among employees, with the company using a color-coded system to monitor compliance.

Todd shifts focus to announcements and sponsor messages, marking GoDaddy’s 19-year sponsorship of his podcast and promoting various GoDaddy deals that offer value for service packages like hosting and domain services.

Next, Todd discusses recent issues and trends in the tech and business world:
– Ferrari’s upcoming electric vehicle is expected to be considerably expensive.
– Warnings about VPNs potentially including malware, explicitly targeting Chinese users seeking VPN services.
– Changes in artificial intelligence (AI) and its implementation in various sectors, notably banking, may lead to significant job displacements.

He also mentions exciting developments regarding space exploration with Rocket Lab’s planned launch. He elaborates on online safety and privacy issues, notably Instagram’s problematic content recommendations to teenage users.

In the latter part of the podcast, Todd addresses listener interactions and contributions through modern podcast apps like Fountain, encouraging the community to interact more with the podcast.

To wrap up, Todd discusses legal issues surrounding TikTok and a unique approach some users take to resolve Facebook account issues by taking legal action.

Throughout the episode, Todd acknowledges the contributions and interactions from the listeners and invites feedback and participation, reinforcing the interactive nature of his podcast series.

YouTube is reportedly canceling Premium memberships
1/2 of US Dell staff opted for remote work
Boeing’s Starliner
New MacBook Pro 2024 laptops
Ferrari’s first EV
That new VPN you found could contain malware
Cheaper Apple Vision Pros
The Starlink Mini Dish is coming
Biden to ban sales of Kaspersky software
Musk seeks to mend fences with advertisers
Citi sees AI displacing more bank jobs
Car dealerships halted after cyberattack
Rocket Lab
AI could save the public sector workers
Booking.com warns of scams
You need to take a close look at your AT&T bill
Snap pays millions
Instagram

The post Elon Musk Confirms Starlink Mini Dish: Affordable, Portable, and Powerful #1749 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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DJI, a major drone manufacturer, may soon face a ban in the US as the Countering CCP Drones Act progresses through Congress. This bill, driven by concerns about Chinese Communist Party spying, aims to limit Chinese-built technology in the US market. DJI, holding 70% of the US drone market, has been recognized for its superior technology and innovation. However, the US government is pushing to open the market for domestic drone companies by targeting DJI. The bill’s passage could significantly impact the drone industry, given the lack of comparable US-made alternatives.

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09:57–NASA delays Boeing Starliner departure from ISS
16:29–Amazon-powered AI cameras
18:21–Asus patches serious security flaw
19:34–Apple reportedly plans thinner devices
20:43–Proton
21:37–The US has sued Adobe
‘Superbug’ on the ISS
12:30–VPNs and the law
22:23–Hundreds of thousands affected by data breach
23:20–Hackers use emojis to dispatch malware
24:23–A new Android phone from Motorola
5:22–Your DJI drone may be banned
25:00–VPN for Pixel users
25:46–A new Cybertruck issue
26:38–YouTube is testing Notes
27:29–AI improves human locomotion in robotic exoskeletons
28:34–Elon Musk drops case against OpenAI
29:04–Seven warning signs your computer was hacked
29:43–Seven bizarre facts about the Solar System
30:29–Surgeon General urges safety labels on social media
31:12–Mcdonald’s and AI
8:56–Google Chrome on Android

The post US Congress Pushes for DJI Drone Ban Amid CCP Spying Concerns #1748 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Privacy campaigner noyb has filed a GDPR complaint against Google’s Privacy Sandbox, alleging it results in unwanted tracking. Despite being introduced to eliminate third-party cookies, the Privacy Sandbox tracks users within the browser. Noyb claims Google’s implementation lacks informed consent and misleads users into enabling first-party tracking under the guise of privacy protection. Google’s stance is that their Privacy Sandbox APIs offer significant privacy improvements, but the issue has drawn regulatory attention and criticism.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes and Full Summary:

In episode 1747 of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the main focus is on a complaint filed by privacy campaigner NOYB against Google’s Privacy Sandbox. Todd starts the episode by summarizing the allegation that despite its intention to eliminate third-party cookies, Google’s Privacy Sandbox results in unwanted tracking within the browser. NOYB claims that Google misleads users into enabling first-party tracking disguised as privacy protection, lacking informed consent. Google maintains that the Privacy Sandbox offers significant privacy improvements.

Todd proceeds to a detailed sponsor segment, promoting GoDaddy’s services and deals and emphasizing the sponsorship’s long-standing support for the podcast. The host briefly mentions a personal challenge with his rough voice and the disturbance due to nearby construction, adding a touch of personal experience to the episode.

Moving on, Todd elaborates on the technical aspects of the Privacy Sandbox API introduced by Google in 2020, designed to replace third-party cookie tracking with API-based user interest ad displays. This approach sparked controversy as it seemingly shifts the monitoring within the browser, which, according to NOYB, manipulates user consent through misleading pop-up messages.

The podcast covers other major stories, including a massive pay deal for Elon Musk approved by Tesla investors, Google’s reinforcement of Android 15 against attacks at charging stations, concerns over Amazon Alexa’s data usage, and Spotify’s expansion into audiobook offerings, which stirred a complaint from music publishers.

Todd then discusses technological developments, such as AI-driven training plans for the New York City Marathon, updates in Apple Pay functionalities, and the introduction of AI job coaching tools on LinkedIn.

The episode wraps up with acknowledgments to listeners who donate and contribute to the podcast, followed by a review of further news items like a software update for Waymo’s driverless taxis, a cyberattack on the tracker company Tile, and rising costs of Blu-ray DVDs.

The episode provides a good blend of technical discussion, personal anecdotes, and promotion, catering to an audience interested in technology updates, privacy issues, and digital media impacts.

09:30–Android 15
12:39–Apple’s Intelligence
15:11–‘ Once in a lifetime explosion
16:24–Music publishers and Spotify
18:26–Waymo issues software fix
19:10–Bitcoin miners at a Donald Trump event
20:40–Firefox
10:26–Your home is spying on you
22:10–Wells Fargo fires employees
23:21–Internships are drying up
25:08–Google to buy clean power
04:40–Google’s Privacy Sandbox
26:07–NYC Marathon partners with Runna
07:40–Musk says Tesla investors backing pay deal
27:00–Apple Pay gets a significant upgrade
28:10–Roku TV owners are complaining
29:17–Starship-Super Heavy
29:58–Apple and OpenAI
30:38–Adobe and genAI
31:54–Google wants to put more AI in Chromebooks
32:31–Tile hacked
33:52–Blu-ray and DVD prices have increased
34:40–NASA calls off spacewalk
35:50–LinkedIn’s AI job coach

The post GDPR vs Google: Privacy Sandbox Under Fire #1747 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple announced the macOS 15 Sequoia at WWDC 2024, featuring the Apple Intelligence AI suite, iPhone mirroring, and Continuity updates. The new OS introduces automatic window tiling, a cross-platform Passwords app, and enhanced Safari features. macOS Sequoia is compatible with Apple Silicon and select Intel-based Macs

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Show Notes and Full Summary:

In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses several critical topics primarily focusing on Apple’s announcement of macOS 15 Sequoia during WWDC 2024. The new operating system introduces several innovative features, including the Apple Intelligence AI suite, iPhone mirroring, and enhanced continuity updates. MacOS Sequoia supports automatic window tiling, a cross-platform Passwords app, and improved Safari features. It is compatible with Apple Silicon and select Intel-based Macs.

Todd Cochrane seamlessly transitions into sponsor promotion, specifically highlighting GoDaddy as Geek News Central’s primary sponsor. He encourages listeners to take advantage of special deals provided through his GoDaddy affiliate link. He emphasizes the importance of supporting the podcast by signing up to become a GNC insider or using modern podcast apps that allow listeners to contribute directly through the value-for-value model.

Cochran shares anecdotes from his travels in the Philippines, reminiscing about his experiences in the Subic Bay area. He provides a rundown on notable spots and changes in the Olongapo area, reflecting on the region’s transformation.

The episode shifts back to tech topics, delving deeper into the features of macOS Sequoia. Todd discusses Apple Intelligence at length, describing how the AI will enhance functionality across Apple devices by introducing new capabilities in writing tools, Siri, and user interactivity between Mac and iPhone.

Further, Todd covers a variety of additional tech news stories, including NATO’s funding for a German startup developing autonomous war robots, Google’s settlement over an antitrust lawsuit, and a piracy lawsuit filed by significant publishers against Google. He also briefly touches upon personal internet security tips and wraps up with news of Tesla’s door design issues potentially affecting car windows.

Throughout the episode, Todd encourages listener interaction through emails and sharing feedback on modern podcast apps. He also mentions significant contributions from dedicated listeners who support the podcast through financial donations or streaming sats with modern Podcast Apps.

To conclude, Todd outlines the upcoming changes and challenges related to his podcast setup, sharing his transition from a studio to potentially building a new working space at home and ending with acknowledgments for the ongoing support from the Geek News Central community.

AI Pin users should stop using its charging case
Google “profits from pirated textbooks publishers.”
Tesla’s emergency door release
Virgin Galactic
SCOTUS and Facebook
Is the router showing a red light?
Ransomware attack on Christie’s
Accountants say they are using AI to make their jobs easier
Autonomous war robots
NY Times responds to source code leak
Multi-robot teams to explore other planets
NHS psychotherapy clinic run by AI
Amazon eases up on ads
Google pays millions
Frontier hackers threaten to release private data
Scammers use fake X accounts to impersonate airlines
LastPass reveals the cause of the primary password manager outage
SpaceX
Customers are printing far less
macOS Sequoia

The post Apple Unveils macOS 15 Sequoia with AI Features #1746 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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SpaceX’s Starship rocket completed its first successful full test flight, returning to Earth without exploding. Standing nearly 400 feet tall, this marked the fourth launch and the longest flight of the world’s largest and most powerful rocket. Despite some damage and the loss of tiles, the spacecraft managed a controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean after a flight reaching 130 miles in altitude and speeds of 16,000 mph. This milestone is crucial for SpaceX’s plans to reuse the rocket for missions to the moon and Mars.

Listener Links:
Your Data, Your Devices, and You: Easy-to-Follow Instructions to Reduce Your Risk of Data Loss, Device Infection, and Identity Theft
DJI Ban
DJI Hit Piece

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Links:

In this episode of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the primary focus is SpaceX’s recent achievement with its Starship rocket. The rocket completed its first successful full test flight without exploding, marking a significant milestone for SpaceX’s plans to use the missile for lunar and Martian missions.

Todd starts the episode by highlighting the rocket’s controlled splashdown after reaching high speeds and altitude despite some damage and loss of tiles. He emphasizes the importance of this advancement in the context of SpaceX’s future missions.

The discussion then shifts to other topics, including ongoing antitrust investigations into major tech companies like Microsoft, OpenAI, and NVIDIA by US regulators. NVIDIA’s recent surge in valuation, making it the world’s second most valuable company, is also mentioned.

Todd transitions to other news, including Microsoft’s investigation over monopoly concerns, Apple’s commitment to security updates for iPhones, and a new homepage design tested by Netflix. Other discussions cover the end of Best Buy’s Samsung repair program, a study related to misinformation on Twitter, and controversy over Adobe’s content scanning practices.

The episode also covers the opposition to a new telescope on Haleakala by Maui’s council, Lyft’s growth forecasts, and details about Instacart’s stock buyback. Additionally, Todd discusses a U.S. Justice Department move to recover funds stolen from a trade union, a U.S. news app accused of publishing fake stories, and Apple’s internal radio in its new Macs and iPads intended for smart home functionalities.

Todd also engages with the audience, reminding listeners about their sponsorship with GoDaddy and encouraging them to support the show through various platforms and promotional codes provided.

This engaging and informative episode, filled with a mix of technological advancements and regulatory challenges faced by tech companies, concludes with Todd thanking listeners and insiders for their support and teasing future discussions and content.

Maui opposes the Space Force plan
SpaceX’s mega-rocket
Lyft rises on growth
Instacart announces buyback
DOJ to recover millions
Newsbreak accused of using AI to make up stories
There’s a secret radio inside new Macs
US Treasury to seek comments from the public about AI
Advance Auto Parts confirms stolen data for sale
A battery charged by your tears
eBay to stop accepting AMEX
Ikea is hiring players to run its virtual store
FBI recover keys
DuckDuckGo
Tetris at 40
Microsoft, OpenAI, and Nvidia investigated
Nvidia worth trillions
iPhone security updates
Misinformation on Twitter
Netflix’s latest design
Adobe users upset
Best Buy shutting down Samsung repair program

The post SpaceX Starship Achieves Major Milestone! #1745 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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After operating Geek News Central for the past five years from the current studio, I was forced to vacate the space I’d called home for so long.

About 18 months ago, The Mint, a weed shop, moved in next door, and while it wasn’t without its quirks—like the morning aroma of weed in my kitchen area—they’ve been good neighbors. For the past six months, I’ve been on a month-to-month lease after the building was acquired more than a year ago by the owners of said weed shop, and I never thought about renewing it. The landlord seemed content having me there, especially since the place had been vacant for years before I moved in back in 2019. But, that was my mistake.

On Sunday, May 28th, I received a termination notice of my lease from the owners of the building based out of Arizona. My lease termination date was set for June 28th, and as you know, I had a trip planned that extended beyond that date. With no time to lose and not wanting a legal battle, I spent two days vacating the studio, thanks to a miraculous 48-hour effort over Monday on Memorial Day and Tuesday.

So here I am, with no place to operate from when I return. My studio was never open to the public, as you know, but served as the backbone of my podcast,

Finding a new location will be challenging and may even require moving to a community that understands and supports this type of creative work. It reminds me of my mantra: never build your brand on rented land. While my .com is safe, my creative space isn’t, and this reality has been a soul-crushing experience.

I have no idea who will move into my old space—perhaps no one, in this challenging commercial market. My rent was always paid on time, but maybe weed sales are doing so well that they need a bigger store.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider The post Forced to Vacate Studio #1744 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Google I/O 2024 introduced significant advancements in AI with the new Gemini 1.5 Flash, which can efficiently handle high-volume tasks. Enhancements in Gemini Nano and the debut of Project Astra highlight multimodal capabilities, allowing interaction through text, images, and spoken language. The event also showcased Imagen 3 for photorealistic image generation and Veo for high-quality video creation. Updates in Google Search with AI Overviews and new Android features like real-time phishing detection and advanced AI integrations were also announced.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane gives a shout-out to the show’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy, acknowledging their longstanding partnership. He then shares his personal updates, mentioning his upcoming travel plans to London and discussing the implications of Google’s changes on search on businesses, particularly the shift toward AI-driven results, which might sideline traditional search results. He voices concern over how these changes could impact small businesses and content creators, including his site, Geek News Central.

Moving forward, Cochrane touches on industry reactions to other tech developments, including a new Samsung ad and updates concerning internet tariffs affecting military families. He also notes a new helicopter design and shares coverage of ongoing congressional debates over who should report foreign election interference.

Cochrane then encourages listeners to stay subscribed and proactive, emphasizing the importance of maintaining openness in internet standards and podcasting. He concludes with a reminder about the importance of supporting sponsors like GoDaddy, which helps keep the podcast thriving and independent.

Key Points Covered:
1. Overview of Google I/O 2024.
2. Introduction of new AI technologies and Android features.
3. Impact of Google’s shift to AI-driven search results on businesses.
4. Cochrane’s upcoming travel and schedule adjustments.
5. Various tech updates and industry reactions.
6. Advocacy for open internet standards and the value of podcast independence.

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide to the latest in technology, especially Google’s innovations, and a discussion on the broader implications of these technologies on different aspects of digital life and business as listed below.

1/2 of ACP users are military families that would be affected with the end of ACP
NASA bids farewell to the ‘flying laboratory’
What is social engineering?
Your Chromecast and LG TV might get a Google Home update.
GM demonstrated how EVs can power an entire home
Nissan data breach
The iPhone 16 Pro Max
President Biden and solar manufacturers
Visa adds a new way to share data
You could be eligible for a piece of Apple’s settlement
Airbus’ new Racer
Toshiba to cut jobs
Spectacular NASA footage of solar activity
Private mission to save the Hubble Space Telescope
Black holes were observed colliding
The TICKET Act
Who will report foreign election interference?
Google Workspace and Gmail
Thunderbolt Share
‘We don’t crush creativity’
Business leaders scared of RTO mandates
Microsoft PC Manager
Venu Sports
Google’s Lookout
AI to answer complex questions in physics
An AI-driven sarcasm detector
Google I/O
Meta’s Oversight Board
Apple is working on a touchscreen MacBook
Santander confirms data breach
Why are laptop webcams always so bad?
AT&T deal will make every phone a satellite phone

The post Exploring Google I/O 2024: The Future of Search, AI, and Android #1743 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the primary focus is the latest release from OpenAI, the GPT-4o model, which enhances text, vision, and audio functionalities. Todd starts the episode by discussing the features of GPT-4o, which include improvements in API access, cost efficiency, and the introduction of a more interactive voice mode. He emphasizes the strategic timing of the release, just a day before the Google I/O conference, positioning OpenAI favorably against its competitors.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

Todd acknowledges the episode’s sponsors, especially highlighting GoDaddy, the longest-running sponsor. He casually shares his personal experiences from his recent trip to the Philippines for Podfest Asia, where he engaged with other media creators and savored local beers and rum.

After discussing his travel schedule, which includes upcoming trips to London and potential disruptions to the podcast schedule due to his travels, Todd delves deeper into technological updates. He explores various tech-related topics ranging from Apple’s controversial ad campaign and geomagnetic storms affecting Starlink and GPS systems to advancements in quantum navigation technology for unjamable positioning systems.

The episode covers various other subjects, such as healthcare cybersecurity, the environmental review of SpaceX’s Starship launches from Kennedy Space Center, and labor actions by Apple store workers in Maryland. Todd also highlights the potential coming updates in Google’s I/O conference, focusing on AI initiatives.

In the latter part of the episode, Todd speaks about data privacy issues with ProtonMail and impending U.S. tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. The episode closes with a mention of discussions on AI safety between the U.S. and China, a brief look ahead to the next episode, and gratitude to the financial supporters of the podcast, urging listeners to become insiders by contributing financially to ensure the continuity of Geek News Central.

Overall, Todd Cochrane’s episode “Exploring OpenAI’s GPT-4o: A Leap in AI Technology” encapsulates an array of tech advancements, personal anecdotes, futuristic propositions, and community engagements blended seamlessly with updates and thoughts on recent technological controversies and developments.

Amazon’s robotaxi company is under investigation
TCL’s 115-inch 4K TV for $27,000
More geomagnetic storms remain likely for today
Microsoft Places and AI
VW’s ID Buzz
Europol investigates a breach
Majestic ‘ying-yang’ crater
SpaceX shows off its new extravehicular activity suit
Black Basta ransomware
MIT and AI
A $1.4 billion Dream Chaser ‘plane’
YouTube Music and AI
Ads in Windows 11
Beethoven likely didn’t die from lead poisoning
Tesla rehires some superchargers workers
Ikea is adding energy monitoring to its app
Unjammable navigation tech
Android phones are about to get a major iMessage feature
AI personas are the future of dating
Waymo
Google I/O 2024
Proton Mail
Starlink suffers ‘degraded service’ from solar storm
US tariffs on Chinese EVs
Google’s Project Starline
Apple and Google
ChatGPT in iOS 18
GPT-4o
Cyberattack at Ascension
SpaceX facing an FAA review
AI in the hands of the people
The US and China are meeting this week to talk about AI safety and risks
Apple Store workers in Maryland have voted to authorize a strike

The post Exploring OpenAI’s GPT-4o: A Leap in AI Technology #1742 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, equipped with Deep Space Optical Communications technology, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully transmitting data from over 140 million miles away using space lasers. This achievement, which included sending ultra-high-definition video and engineering data at unprecedented speeds, marks a significant advancement in deep-space communication technologies. Such capabilities pave the way for more complex and faster data transmission, which is crucial for future missions, including potential human trips to Mars.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses several topics, with the highlight being NASA’s Psyche spacecraft and its achievement in transmitting data from over 140 million miles away using space lasers. This feat marks a significant advancement in deep-space communication technologies.

The episode starts with a shout-out to the primary sponsor, GoDaddy, and an acknowledgment of the show’s supporters. Todd mentions the show’s availability on modern podcast apps and encourages listeners to become GNC insiders.

Todd informs listeners that this will be the last show before a break due to his upcoming trip to the Philippines for Podfest Asia. He explains that he will be absent for a week and a half, resulting in no new episodes until his return.

The deep space communication story breaks down the details of NASA’s experiment, including transmitting ultra-high-definition video and engineering data at unprecedented speeds.

In a brief diversion from the main topic, the host touches on Mercedes Benz’s decision not to allow Apple CarPlay to take over all vehicle screens, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a holistic software architecture.

The episode delves into various news items, including Google Play Store updates, NASA’s call for public input on technological shortfalls, and a data breach that affected Kaiser Permanente.

Todd encourages listener engagement by sharing a feedback email from a listener named Brad, who had listened to all past podcast episodes during his recovery from a brain tumor. Todd also reads an email from Bob regarding the earning model on the Fountain app and addresses pronunciation feedback from Keith, who corrected Todd’s pronunciation of “Maita.”

Other topics covered include a hit piece on Apple over fraudulent apps, the risk of AI in critical infrastructure, a price hike for Peacock, and a leaked iPhone 16 case model. Todd also touches on the investigation into Ford’s BlueCruise system following a fatal crash. He rounds out the news with discussions about Getir’s focus shift, Verizon’s smartwatch plans price increase, FCC fines for carriers, GitHub’s new AI-powered software engineering tool, and a potential new feature for the Apple Pencil.

Towards the end of the show, Todd discusses the importance of media companies like The Onion and the vital role of AI in education, referencing an article from MIT about using generative AI in the classroom.

The episode concludes with an update on upcoming episodes, prompting users to subscribe to the newsletter for future content and thanking listeners and sponsors for their support.

The title of this episode reflects the innovative technology demonstrated by NASA’s spacecraft and its promising implications for future space communications.

You can download two apps at once from the Google Play Store
Mercedes-Benz and Apple’s CarPlay
NASA seeks input
Kaiser Permanente data breach
Prime deliveries are getting much faster
Apple under fire
DDoS attacks
USPS phishing sites
2.28 million apps blocked from the Play Store
CISA rolls out new guidelines
Peacock is getting a price increase
Leaked iPhone 16 case models suggest bigger sizes for the Pro and Pro Max
BlueCruise under investigation
OpenAI and the Financial Times
Walmart and Roblox
MIT experimenting with AI
What’s new on Prime Video
NASA receives deep-space laser messages millions and millions of miles away
Methane gas coming out of the ground on Mars?
The next Apple Pencil
Meta to face the EU
‘Killer Robots’
Getir shuts down
Twilio buys The Onion
Verizon smartwatch plans get price hikes

The post High-Speed Space Data Transmission #1741 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, has expressed a preference for shutting down its TikTok app in the U.S. if forced to divest rather than sell it. This stance stems from the importance of the app’s core algorithms to ByteDance’s global operations. Despite TikTok’s substantial user base in the U.S., it represents only a tiny portion of ByteDance’s revenue. The company would rather cease operations than compromise on the algorithms integral to its suite of applications. This decision came after the President signed a bill to force the sale by January 19th in the U.S. that mandated the sale of TikTok due to alleged national security concerns, with ByteDance steadfast in maintaining control over its technological assets.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

In this episode, Todd Cochrane discusses several topics, starting with the main subject: ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, potentially shutting down the app in the United States rather than selling it due to an order from the President that demands ByteDance be sold. Cochrane highlights that ByteDance values its core algorithm too much to sell it and that the app represents only a tiny portion of the company’s global revenue. Despite TikTok’s popularity, the decision comes amid concerns of national security. Cochrane expresses skepticism about the motives behind the legislation, suggesting that other interests, particularly financial interests from competitors, might be at play.

During the episode, Cochrane acknowledges his primary sponsor, GoDaddy, thanking them for their long-term support and encouraging listeners to step up and support the sponsor during the new reporting period. He mentions some behind-the-scenes statistics and reminds listeners to check out deals from GoDaddy on his website. C

Cochrane displays a replica of the Dragon spacecraft sent by an anonymous donor and expresses appreciation for the gift. He then dives into his opinion on government intervention regarding TikTok, criticizing the legislative decision and comparing the situation to past social media controversies. Todd discusses the implications of the U.S. government pressuring a sale of TikTok and voices strong support for free speech.

Transitioning to other topics, Cochrane reports on various news items, including the FTC ruling against noncompete agreements and the arrest of a school athletic director for impersonating a principal using AI voice synthesis to create offensive messages. He shares news about the FCC’s actions against certain Chinese telecommunications companies and discusses breakthroughs in brain-like computing using water and salt.

Cochrane continues to discuss updates in the entertainment industry, Toyota’s new car manufacturing investments, and the possibility that Apple might start developing its AI chips. He touches upon FTC refunds to Ring customers over security failures and the report that Ford has been selling its electric cars at a loss.

As the episode progresses, Cochrane discusses regulatory pressure on the tech industry, DARPA’s autonomous tank, and expectations of alien life discoveries. He shares an anecdote about his son’s MacBook Pro needing a battery replacement and Apple’s expensive service fee.

Finally, the episode touches on the Earth’s slowing rotation, DARPA’s new autonomous combat vehicle, AI in plant engineering, Stripe’s update, Intel’s financial outlook, Google’s plans with Chromebooks and Pixel, and Reddit’s new advertising attempts. Toward the end of the podcast, Cochrane discusses his upcoming travel schedule to podcasting events in Manila and London and how it will affect show frequency.

Throughout the episode, Cochrane also gives shoutouts to various listeners and supporters, asking for feedback and discussing the value-for-value model, including the SATSBack initiative, where podcasters could potentially pay listeners for their time listening to the show. He explains podcast apps and how listeners can use the Fountain app to support the podcast financially through streaming sites (cryptocurrency).

The podcast episode titled “ByteDance Prefers Shutdown to Selling TikTok” ran slightly longer than usual, nearly reaching the 60-minute mark.

What’s new on Paramount + with Showtime
NASA is planning a September launch
iPhone activation market share hits new low
A phone tracking app has a significant security flaw
FCC bans Chinese telecom carriers
An artificial synapse
Cities are ending their ShotSpotter contracts
Google is updating Android TVs
Toyota will spend billions
ByteDance prefers a TikTok ban
The end of non-compete agreements
Apple might start developing its own AI chips
AI-driven cyber attacks to be the norm
Ford reported a massive loss on its electric vehicles
Apple reports cuts to its Vision Pro production
A school athletic director was arrested for framing the principal
The Earth’s rotation slowing down
Spotify and Apple
What’s new on Max
Senator Rubio calls for blocking of all US sales to Huawei
Hubble celebrates 34 anniversary
AI helps scientists
Dropbox
FTC sending millions in refunds
Google may re-release the Pixel Tablet
An ex-hacker and a researcher launched a startup
Stripe for everyone
Intel Q1
Alien life could be just a few years away
Reddit
Samsung shows off battery tech
Meta Q1
The 2024 Election
DARPA’s latest toy

The post ByteDance Prefers Shutdown to Selling TikTok #1740 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Jason Citron, CEO of Discord, explores the platform’s unique position in the online world. Unlike traditional social networks, Discord offers a private space for communities centered around shared interests like gaming, AI, and fandoms. Citron discusses Discord’s shift from voice chat to a comprehensive social hub, emphasizing a future focused on intimate, community-driven experiences. He also addresses challenges such as content moderation and the decision against selling to Microsoft, highlighting the platform’s ongoing adaptation and focus on gaming and user-generated content. He thinks the Internet will get narrower as younger generations spend most of their time on the platform.

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The episode opens with Todd Cochrane, showcasing the unique position of Discord in the online world. As a private space for communities with shared interests like gaming, AI, and fandom, the platform has shifted from a voice chat service to a comprehensive social hub.

Jason Citron, CEO of Discord, is discussed, and his views on the future focused on intimate community-driven experiences are highlighted. He addresses content moderation challenges and explains his decision not to sell to Microsoft, emphasizing their focus on gaming and user-generated content and his belief in a narrower Internet experience for younger generations.

Todd gives a shoutout to the primary sponsor, GoDaddy, encouraging listeners to check out the deals for various GoDaddy services on the Geek News Central website and expresses gratitude for GoDaddy’s ongoing sponsorship.

The conversation then transitions to Todd’s personal experiences with network upgrades, sharing his positive experience with the UNIFY product line by Ubiquiti. He details the installation process in his studio and touts the advantages of the new network infrastructure.

The episode continues with a roundup of news stories and technological developments:

– Audacity 3.5’s release
– SSD and hard drive prices going up due to increased demand
– Mutant bacteria thriving in space and the concerns it raises
– Dark web activities and challenges with child sexual abuse image detection
– Anticipated M4 Mac mini and skipped M3 generation
– Google’s new AI experiment Gemini potentially syncs with music streaming services

Todd advocates for his listeners to adopt modern podcast apps and consider utilizing podcasting 2.0 technology, which could pay users to listen to podcast episodes and engage with the community. He believes in building a community rather than restricting internet experiences to smaller, more private spaces.

The episode covers various other tech developments and current events, including:

– Ecosia’s energy-generating browser
– Leaks about Beats’ new Bluetooth speaker from LeBron James,
– Archeological 3D mapping at Cape Canaveral,
– Meta’s spokesperson illegally defending terrorism in Russia,
– Climate initiatives launched by President Biden on Earth Day,
– The effect of AI on energy demands and a call for nuclear power,
– Banning of TikTok in the U.S.,
– Privacy concerns on different platforms, including the Dutch government’s stance on Facebook and
– Grindr’s lawsuit over sharing HIV status.

The episode concludes with Todd inviting listeners to provide feedback, participate in the community, and support the podcast through various contributions, such as an insider subscription and promoting GoDaddy deals. He also expresses interest in receiving help for chapter file submission.

Throughout the episode, Todd regularly dives into the value and implications of new technology, encouraging active community participation and growth within the podcasting space.

Audacity 3.5
PC storage prices are going up
NASA finds new mutant bacteria in space
CSAM
The M4 Mac Mini
Google’s Gemini AI app
Ecosia
A new Bluetooth speaker
A smaller, more private internet
UCF students excavating Cape Canaveral launch site
Russian court sentences Meta spokesperson to 6 years
Apple named a top pick
$7 billion in solar power plants
Germany arrests 3 accused of smuggling tech to China
EU opens probe of TikTok Lite
Google Drive
Cannes Hospital cancels medical procedures
Verizon Q1
NASA seeks a new way to bring Mars rocks to Earth
Is Sony merging with Paramount Plus?
Proton Mail
TikTok ban bill goes to the Senate
‘Do not use Facebook’
Grindr sued

The post Discord CEO Jason Citron on Shaping a More Intimate Internet #1739 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Meta has launched a significant update to its AI platform, Meta AI, now powered by the open-source Llama 3 large language model. This upgrade introduces broader functionality and integration across Meta’s products, including Instagram, Messenger, Facebook feeds, and WhatsApp, along with a new dedicated web portal.

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Title: Meta Unveils Llama 3 AI: Let the AI Race Begin

The episode begins with host Todd Cochrane discussing Meta’s significant update to its AI platform. The platform, Meta AI, is now integrated with the open-source large language model Llama 3, which has expanded functionality across Meta’s various products. This includes Instagram, Messenger, Facebook feeds, WhatsApp, a new web portal, Ray-Ban smart glasses, and the upcoming Quest headsets. Despite the advancements, Todd mentions challenges in cultural relevance and hallucination issues that were spotted during preliminary testing.

Todd acknowledges his sponsor, GoDaddy, and offers a range of promotion details for listeners to consider. He also invites listeners to contribute to the show via the website and encourages them to join the live chat at geeknews.chat. The discussion moves on to community elements and how listeners can provide feedback.

Transitioning to his work life, Todd shares his experiences upgrading his studio with Unifi equipment from Ubiquiti. From there, Todd dives into tech news, beginning with the observation that Google has taken action against disruptive employee behavior. Google fired 28 workers for participating in a protest about an Israeli government cloud contract, which Google described as violating their conduct policies. Todd elaborates on the situation and the consequences faced by the employees.

Next, the UN investigates a ransomware attack that resulted in data theft from several of its agencies based in Copenhagen. Todd then discusses a feature allowing guests staying at specific IHG hotels to stream content from their phones to hotel TVs using AirPlay.

The conversation shifts to Spy Pet, a site selling data on Discord users and their messages. Todd explains how the site operates and its privacy implications. National Geographic’s Earth Month celebration is highlighted next, emphasizing digital series featuring meditative videos.

Todd thanks listeners for boosting the podcast with micro-donations before covering more technology stories. These include the United Nations’ efforts to patch a light leak in its space telescope, issues with 911 services going offline in parts of the U.S., Google’s decision to combine its Android and hardware teams to focus on AI, and Google Photos’ new decluttering feature.

Additional news items relate to Google Maps’ 3D building view feature for Android Auto, Pixel smartphone updates, global IT spending, and the illusory of healthcare organizations’ cybersecurity maturity.

The podcast mentions the U.S. Air Force’s successful AI dogfight experiments and Microsoft & OpenAI’s plan to invest $100 billion to develop an AI supercomputer.

Todd also touches on the leakage of Venus’s atmosphere, concerns over TikTok Lite’s influence in Europe, Reddit’s new AI-powered language translation features, Nothing’s new ear two earbuds, and Slack’s rollout of AI tools for paying customers.

The episode concludes with an emphasis on the security risks in the healthcare sector, evidenced by a ransomware attack on Michigan-based Cherry Health that compromised sensitive patient data. Todd wraps up by mentioning that the audience’s feedback would be appreciated and encourages them to support the show.

- The Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act
- 07:42–Meta rolls out an updated AI assistant
- 14:30–UN Agency investigating ransomware attack
- 15:14–iOS 17 update
- 16:31–Scraper spies on millions of Discord users
- 19:33–NAT GEO celebrates Earth Month
- 22:35–NASA will send astronauts to ISS
- 23:27–911 goes MIA
- 24:03–Google reorganizes teams
- 25:37–Google Photos
- 26:53–Google Maps
- 28:10–IT spending in the trillions
- 28:57–Police apprehend global cyber gang
- 29:55–Samsung shifts to 6-day workweeks
- 31:57–The Google Pixel 9
- 32:14–Report reveals healthcare industry not prepared for cyberattacks
- 33:53–PC maker offers a fix
- 35:03–The US Air Force’s first successful AI dogfight
- 37:42–Microsoft and OpenAI will spend billions
- 39:15–Venus is leaking
- 40:04–Europe and TikTok
- 11:44–Google fired 28 workers
- 41:00–Reddit CPO talks about new features
- 41:55–Nothing’s earbuds
- 42:38–The Boring phone
- Europol makes arrests
- 43:24–Slack rolls out its AI tools
- The EU and Meta
- 43:54–DJI’s new backup battery
- 45:53–Cherry HealthThe post Meta Unveils Llama 3 AI: Let the AI Race Begin #1738 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Last week, the U.S. Congress faced intense debates over the reauthorization of FISA Section 702, which allows indirect surveillance of American citizens without a warrant. The controversy peaked when a proposed amendment to mandate warrants for such surveillance failed in a 212-212 vote. Despite significant opposition and a temporary block by a bipartisan coalition, the renewal bill passed the House and is now pending Senate approval before the April 19 deadline.

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In episode 1737 of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses several topics, with the key focus being the intense debates and controversy over the reauthorization of FISA Section 702 in the U.S. Congress. Todd reports that, despite opposition and an evenly split vote on an amendment mandating warrants for surveillance of American citizens, the renewal bill has passed the House and is pending Senate approval.

He also highlights his partnership with GoDaddy and encourages listeners to use promo codes from Geek News Central to support the podcast and use GoDaddy’s services for online businesses. Todd segues into his personal experiences and reviews of a product line from Ubiquiti, specifically the UnifI product, which he used to address bandwidth constraints in his rural loft. Moreover, he shares his frustration about frequent issues with a PoE switch that affected his security cameras. Todd touches on upcoming travel plans, including speaking engagements in Asia and Europe.

The episode covers news on Google’s reaction to a proposed journalism fee in California, expectations for Google IO announcements, the use of AI for mental health services in the public sector, and a new battery recycling machine. Todd shares his enthusiasm for new AI tools in Adobe Premiere Pro and expresses skepticism about a headband that claims to improve athletic performance.

Todd also discusses layoffs at Tesla due to declining delivery numbers, Samsung’s billion-dollar investment in semiconductor manufacturing in Texas, and Adobe’s development of AI video tools for Premiere Pro.

The podcast wraps up with Todd responding to Senator Elizabeth Warren’s concerns over TurboTax’s upselling tactics, discussing California’s declining share of tech jobs, and inviting listeners to contribute to the podcast via email and SATs boosts.

Google starts removing links to news outlets
Google I/O 2024
Dropbox CEO wants you to embrace AI
Millions of students are using AI
Cybertruck owners alleged pedal problem
Hubble spots a galaxy
Next, the total solar eclipse
Rivian’s new software update
Global iPhone shipments drop nearly 10%
NASA to make an annoucement
US House approves FISA renewal
Voyager 1
Roku makes 2FA mandatory
Watch a recycling machine
Tesla layoffs
Samsung awarded billions
AI shows promise in mitigating therapists’ shortage
CA replaces a gas plant with a battery
Tim Cook to raise Vietnamese commitment
Lack of AI skills is putting public sector projects at risk
Apple’s AI features
Bosses are scared of AI
Taxi software firm breach
BP’s EV charging arm cuts off jobs
Former security engineer sentenced to prison
This crazy headband
Roku confirms second major cyberattack
Elizabeth Warren and TurboTax
Adobe Premiere Pro
CA is losing tech jobs

The post FISA Section 702 Renewal Continues Warrantless Surveillance #1737 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Microsoft is gearing up to unveil a series of groundbreaking AI tools for PCs and the cloud at its Build conference in May. With a vision to integrate AI into every PC by 2024, the company will showcase advancements such as the Advanced Paste feature, new AI capabilities for Windows applications, and safety enhancements for Azure AI Studio. CEO Satya Nadella and newly appointed head of Microsoft AI, Mustafa Suleyman, will highlight Microsoft’s commitment to AI innovation and responsible development.

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This episode of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, discusses Microsoft’s ambitions to integrate AI into every PC by 2024. The episode covers Microsoft’s plan to unveil groundbreaking AI tools for PCs and the cloud at its Build conference in May, advancing features like Advanced Paste, new AI capabilities for Windows applications, and safety enhancements for Azure AI Studio. Todd emphasizes the aggressive timeline Microsoft has set for these integrations within PCs.

Todd discusses various topics from his week and tech industry news. He gives a shout-out to his sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages listeners to use his sponsor discount codes, stressing the importance of sponsor support to the podcast. He also talks about his experience upgrading his internet at the loft with new Unify equipment for better speeds. He also shares an anecdote about his interaction with the Spectrum technician for upgrading his service to 1 gig down and increased upload speeds.

The episode briefly mentions Elon Musk’s expected visit to India to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Todd also refers to a cybersecurity pay discrepancy study, highlighting that the cybersecurity field shows a narrowing pay gap between men and women compared to national averages.

On the weather front, Todd notes the Weather Channel parent company’s new AI tool for hyperlocal weather videos, and the discussion segues into Google’s one billion dollar investment in undersea cables to connect Japan with Guam and Hawaii, which will significantly impact internet connectivity.

Hints at potential personal updates are also sprinkled throughout the episode, mentioning upgrades he’s making at his loft and potentially speaking at an unspecified event, pending approval from his team at Raw Voice. Todd stresses the grind he’s experiencing with work and his commitment to watching the company’s budget.

The show covers a range of other news, including:

– Uber is making its safety tools more accessible.
– Instagram is testing nudity protection to fight sextortion.
– Space tourism balloon startup’s latest luxury capsule design.
– Alfa Romeo’s move into electric vehicles.
– Google Podcasts going away, leading to listener frustrations.
– DJI is unveiling its latest first-person view drone.
– A warning from the International Monetary Fund on how cyberattacks could trigger bank runs.
– Legal strife plaguing Truth Social’s executives.
– DuckDuckGo is introducing a privacy pro plan with a no-log VPN.
– Best Buy is launching AI customer assistance with human oversight.
– There is potential for a Japanese astronaut to be the first non-American to land on the moon since the Artemis program aims to return to the lunar surface.

The episode concludes with Todd thanking listeners for their continued support, particularly those contributing through the modern podcasting app for value-for-value transactions. Additionally, he provides reminders for listeners to join the chat room, email their feedback, follow or subscribe to the podcast, and check out partner shows linked on Geek News Central.

Walmart might launch a ‘Pro’ variant of its Google competitor.
The UK is considering banning smartphones for children.
AT&T admits data breach
Apple plans to overhaul the entire Mac lineup
Fireball lights up NJ sky
CISA tells agencies to fix credentials
The US ‘considering’ end to Assange’s prosecution bid
The Yale Approach Lock
Taylor Swift songs return to TikTok
Taxi software vendor exposes details of hundreds of thousands
Microsoft announces new AI tools
Roku TV gains new updates
Elon Musk to visit India
Apple could deliver a vast iPhone performance boost
A space tourism balloon startup
Alfa Romeo
Google Podcasts fans are furious
Google pays $41,000
Watch out for these fake messaging apps from Android
Eye injuries after solar eclipse
The Weather Channel’s parent company has a new AI tool
Google announces billions in funding for undersea cabling
DJI unveils its latest FPV drone
Women make less than men in cyber jobs
The first non-American on the Moon
IMF warns of cyberattacks
A Truth Social executive was hacked
DuckDuckGo
Uber’s safety tools
Best Buy and AI

The post Microsoft’s AI Revolution: Integrating AI into Every PC by 2024 #1736 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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In a significant bipartisan effort, Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) have introduced the American Privacy Rights Act, aiming to break the deadlock in Congress over data privacy protections. This landmark proposal offers consumers new rights over personal information, including the ability to correct, delete, or export their data and opt out of targeted advertising and data transfers. Additionally, it introduces stringent security measures to protect consumer data and allows for federal and state enforcement and private lawsuits against violations.

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses various topics, beginning with the American Privacy Rights Act introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). The act supports consumers’ data rights, including correction, deletion, exportation of data, opting out of targeted advertising, and introduces stringent security measures.

Todd transitions to thanking the show’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages listeners to become GNC insiders, contributing to the show’s community. He briefly recounts his weekend activities, decluttering his home, before returning to discussing the eclipse he experienced in Southern Michigan, noting the commercial exploitation around the event.

Todd then delves into the heart of the privacy act debate, expressing strong opposition to governments censoring online content or silencing dissidents and activists. He supports Elon Musk’s stance on free speech, aligning himself with Musk’s resistance to obeying court-ordered profile bans ordered by Brazil.

He mentions OpenAI’s alleged use of YouTube videos to train their models and relates it to his experience selling his voice recordings for AI training. Todd discusses the upcoming Disney Plus crackdown on password sharing, hackers’ targeting of hospital help desks, and Apple’s response to an EU ruling, which Todd finds Apple inadequate.

Todd talks about a report on the advertising impact of leaving TV streaming continuously, mentioning Tubi, a free ad-supported streaming service. He shares his recent network upgrade due to improved internet speeds and asks his audience for their old suitcase uses.

Todd appreciates the show’s insiders and those who contribute via new podcast apps, emphasizing the value of listener interaction. He covers news such as Gemini AI coming to Android, a new Google feature that allows users to look up unknown caller numbers, and the Nothing Company’s upcoming Nothing Ear 2 earbuds.

The host touches on cybersecurity with Dave Luber’s appointment as the new NSA cybersecurity director, Tesla’s robo taxi and Musk’s denial of scrapping the model 2, and Google’s rumored introduction of gesture controls for TVs with cameras, which Todd opposes.

Todd then discusses various reports and news items, including a Magento e-commerce platform bug, a Crowdfence bug bounty program, the dehumanizing effect of robots in industrial environments, future solar eclipses, Spotify’s new AI-based playlists, and a cybersecurity incident at a UK veterinary conglomerate.

The episode concludes with a reminder of the GoDaddy sponsorship and invites musicians to create a new intro, signaling Todd’s openness to refreshing the show’s elements.

Disney+ to crack down on password sharing
A new bipartisan digital privacy bill
Hospital helpdesk targeted by hackers
EU regulators and Apple
People like leaving their TVs on in the background
Another SpaceX launch is seen in Arizona’s night sky
Gemini AI is coming to Android
A ‘lookup button’ for unknown callers
Chipolo
Drones that charge on power lines
Fly Me To The Moon
OpenAI and YouTube
‘Summarize this email’
Google’s bottom search bar
The latest iPhone 16 battery leak
iDrive
NSA makes an appointment for a cybersecurity director
Tesla Robotaxis
Android Auto is behaving weirdly
Nothing set to unveil something
This fake Midjourney Facebook page
An Apple TV with a camera would support gestures
Magneto bug exploited to steal payment data
Crowdfense offering millions
Industrial robots make work less meaningful for real people
When is the next solar eclipse?
Elon Musk threatens to disobey court order.
Spotify tests AI-generated playlists
Animals at risk

The post American Privacy Rights Act a Step in the Right Direction #1735 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Google announced the discontinuation of support for early Dropcam, Dropcam Pro, and Nest Secure models, rendering these devices largely inoperable on April 8. To assist users in transitioning, Google offers a complimentary Nest camera for Nest Aware subscribers or a 50% discount on a new Nest camera for non-subscribers. Dropcam and Dropcam Pro users will lose the ability to save new clips, and they will have limited time to access existing ones. Nest Secure users will find their devices, such as the Nest x Yale door locks, unable to connect to WiFi. Google offers a free Nest Connect to extend the life of existing locks, with a reminder to contact support for details if not already received.

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In this episode of the Geek News Central podcast, titled “Google Phases Out Early Nest and Dropcam Models,” host Todd Cochrane discusses several topics, starting with Google’s announcement about ending support for early Dropcam, Dropcam Pro, and Nest Secure models. This news is significant for users of these products as they will become largely inoperable starting April 8th. Google is offering compensation to affected users, including a complimentary Nest camera for Nest Aware subscribers or a 50% discount on a new Nest camera for non-subscribers. However, Cochrane expresses his frustration with Google’s actions and shares his decision to replace his Dropcam devices with Wyze cameras.

Todd continues the show with acknowledgments and promotions, including a shoutout to the podcast’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy, and invitations for audience participation and subscription via various platforms. He shares insights into his experiences with domain names and encourages listeners to take advantage of GoDaddy’s deals for online businesses.

Following the promotional segment, Todd dives into a range of other tech and industry news:

Google’s consideration of making AI search a premium option due to potential revenue implications.
Gmail’s integration with AI-generated responses for premium subscribers.
The financial payouts from Zoom’s bug bounty program since 2019.
AWS’s job cuts are part of Amazon’s continued downsizing efforts.
NASA is narrowing down options for lunar rovers and working towards selecting one for a pre-2029 moon mission.
The rise of “pink slime” partisan news sites that imitate legitimate journalism.
The use of AI in email responses, with a listener named Leslie providing feedback on her dislike for AI-generated content.
Todd provides an update on GNC insiders, thanking those who stream the podcast with modern podcast apps that allow for value-for-value exchanges.

He also covers other vital topics, such as:

– FBI’s consideration of the benefits and risks of AI.
– Garmin’s new heart rate tracker pairs with women’s sports bras.
– A significant data breach hitting the US State Department involving documents related to the Five Eyes alliance.
– A surge in malware attacks targeting the retail industry via WhatsApp.
– Online retailers’ challenges with fraudulent returns on Amazon.
– NASA’s directive for a unified lunar standard time.
– Controversy surrounding Tesla’s impending trial over a fatal autopilot crash.
– Leaks suggest changes to the iPhone 16 design.
– Ripple’s entrance into the stablecoin market.
– Google is suing a cryptocurrency scammer.
– Apple developed a personal robot for home use.

Todd emphasizes the importance of verified eclipse glasses since an eclipse is approaching and touches on Android’s satellite messaging capabilities. The episode concludes with a reminder to listeners to support the podcast by becoming insiders or utilizing the value-for-value option through modern podcast apps.

Google wants Gemini to help you
Dropcam and Nest devices will stop working soon
Zoom paid millions
AWS planning on job cuts
How will astronauts cruise around the Moon?
FBI and AI
Garmin’s new heart rate tracker
Investigation launched after theft of government data
Amazon sellers plagued by surge in scam returns
Google’s Find My Device
Children’s privacy must be a priority on social media
Amazon still has a problem with plastic waste
A standard of time for the Moon
Tesla and Apple
Leaked iPhone 16 dummy units show design changes
Ripple
Google charging users to use AI search?
A ‘law firm’ of AI
The next generation of a lunar rover
Ford delays some electric vehicles
Waymo and Uber Eats
OpenAI releases new tools
Meta apps hit by outage
Space junk crashed into a home
How to tell authentic eclipse glasses from fakes
Android 15’s satellite text messaging
More malware attacks are hitting retailers than ever
Apple is developing personal robots for your home
X is giving blue checks to Premium users
AT&T to invest billions
NASA, 65 years ago

The post Google Phases Out Early Nest and Dropcam Models #1734 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Perplexity, an AI search engine rivaling Google and backed by prominent investors including Jeff Bezos, is set to introduce advertising in its platform. The company, boasting a significant $73.6 million in Series B funding, plans to embed native ads within the related questions section of its search responses. This move comes as publishers adjust their SEO strategies to mitigate potential losses from Google’s search advancements. By leveraging AI technology from OpenAI and its proprietary models, Perplexity aims to balance its ad-driven model without compromising the user experience amidst expectations to attract substantial advertiser interest.

Let me know what you think of the intro music created by app.suno.ai

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In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane opens the show with his introduction, where he energetically announces the episode’s focus: Perplexity, an AI search engine backed by significant investments and expected to disrupt traditional search by introducing advertising into its platform. After celebrating a whimsical April Fool’s Day, Todd gives a shoutout to the show’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages listeners to support the podcast by becoming GNC insiders and participating in the value-for-value movement.

Todd shares about his recent trip to Los Angeles and his apprehensions regarding the cost of living there, hinting at the relief of returning home. He then updates on his recovery from an injury, and his travel plans for London, encouraging listeners in London to reach out for a meet-up. He touches on the situation with Google Podcasts, which is set to be discontinued in the US and emphasizes the importance of transitioning to a new podcast app.

Celebrating Gmail’s 20th anniversary, Todd reminisces about the rush for Gmail accounts and discusses current cybersecurity threats, including AT&T’s massive data breach and malware targeting Mac users.

The episode’s main topic revolves around Perplexity’s plan to start selling ads, posing questions about how advertising will influence AI search results and the impact on businesses, tiny ones. Todd expresses concern over OpenAI’s integration of links in ChatGPT outputs and how significant companies might dominate this AI-driven landscape, possibly at the expense of smaller entities.

Todd dives into iPhone-related rumors about the following models’ design and camera upgrades, switching gears. He also discusses updates coming to Apple Maps and mentions new content on streaming services Hulu and HBO Max. A New York City government AI chatbot’s faulty advice draws his criticism, and he notes Congressional staff being banned from using Microsoft Copilot due to security risks.

Closing tech news includes macOS users targeted by cyber threats, speculation around the consequences of a potential TikTok ban, and OpenAI’s voice cloning software. Todd humorously congratulates Pluto on becoming Arizona’s official state planet, reflecting on the state’s pride in being the discovery site for Pluto.

Todd concludes the episode by thanking the listeners and podcast insiders for their support. He emphasizes the importance of becoming an insider to join the “cool kids club” and reiterates the value for value concept. He rounds off by contemplating whether to travel to see a solar eclipse and invites listeners to share their plans.

GoDaddy sponsors the episode and encourages listener participation and support throughout.

iPhone 16 camera rumors
The official state planet of Arizona
There is one place in Michigan to see the total solar eclipse
This dangerous Android malware
Happy Birthday to Gmail
Google Podcasts shuts down tomorrow
Google to delete records from incognito tracking
OpenAI claims it can clone a voice from 15 seconds from you talking
iPhone SE 4
SpaceX launches Eutelsat 36D
McDonald’s serves up a masterclass
Apple Maps
Everything new on Hulu
A chatbot is sending the wrong information
Congress bans staff from using Copilot
Everything new on Max
macOS users targeted with more cyberattacks
TikTok ban may be a diplomatic disaster
Truth Social lost millions
Perplexity
Links on ChatGPT
Sam Altman no longer owns fund
AT&T’s massive data breach
Google Maps

The post Perplexity Ads Meet AI: The New Frontier in Search #1733 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Blubrry introduces the revolutionary Blubrry Podcast AI Assistant (Blubrry PAI), designed to streamline and enhance every aspect of podcast production and promotion. With features such as AI-driven planning, integrated production tools, and automated social media and email promotion capabilities, Blubrry PAI promises to alleviate common podcasting challenges. This comprehensive toolset allows podcasters to create better content, engage audiences more effectively, and provide richer metadata for search engines.

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The episode kicks off with the show’s intro jingle and Todd Cochrane, as the sole host and a veteran in the podcasting industry, greeting listeners and introducing the main story for the evening: the launch of Blubrry’s revolutionary Podcast AI Assistant, Blubrry PAI. This AI-driven tool is designed to streamline and enhance podcast production and promotion. It offers integrated production tools, automated social media, and email promotion capabilities. Todd touts Blubrry PAI’s ability to help podcasters create better content, engage with their audience more effectively, and improve search engine metadata.

Todd shares details on the episode number (1733) and the date (Thursday, March 21st) before giving a shoutout to the primary sponsor, GoDaddy. He encourages listeners to utilize the promotional deals on GoDaddy and emphasizes the need for listener support through contributions. He also promotes modern podcast apps from podcastapps.com and encourages listeners to follow or subscribe to the show and check out partner shows.

Delving into personal tidings, Todd speaks about his struggle with a cracked rib, his experimentation with the app Suno.ai, and his upcoming trip to Los Angeles, which he isn’t looking forward to due to the rib injury. He briefly talks about the new company product launches, including VidaPod and their AI. He feels immense pride in his team’s work and mentions that the new AI features have contributed to a rise in listener numbers. He encourages new listeners to introduce themselves via email.

Transitioning into the tech news segment, Todd talks about several stories:

The U.S. Department of Justice is filing an antitrust lawsuit against Apple over its walled garden approach, which makes it difficult for competitors and limits customer choice.
Hong Kong’s new national security law threatens freedoms and criminalizes dissent.
A U.S. House bill barring the sale of personal data to foreign adversaries.
An AI tool creating a digital twin of patients to predict future diseases. Todd expresses concerns over the potential misuse of such technology.
Todd thanks fans who contributed monetarily and boosted the podcast with sats (a form of digital currency).
An FCC investigation into Amazon’s marketing and sale of outlawed products, particularly radio frequency jammers.
The discovery of an AI tool that has found signs of cancer missed by doctors focused on breast cancer diagnoses.
Small tweaks in Google Contacts and Google Pixel news about market share and the rumored release date and price of the next foldable model.

Todd continues with various other stories, including:
– A UPS worker is stealing iPhones and other Apple products.
– Predictions of the emergence of fully AI-generated games.
– A Soyuz spacecraft launching with a multinational crew.
– Glassdoor is adding real names to anonymous profiles.
– Microsoft released new AI PCs and announced a new edition of Office software.
– Ford’s rumored production of an affordable electric SUV.
– Facts about data loss incidents across organizations.
– A potential loophole for denial of service attacks.
– Neuralink’s brain implant helping a paralyzed man play chess with his mind.
– Samsung’s promotion of a free TV with a preorder of select models.
– A state senator‘s deepfake video created by a colleague.
– The U.S. is applying pressure on India over laptop licensing policies.
– YouTube TV’s rollout of multi-view to iPhone.

Closing out the episode, Todd touches on e-waste issues, Reddit’s successful IPO, rumors of iPhone’s potential talks with OpenAI and Google, deepfake challenges with ChatGPT policies, FCC’s plans to expand 5G in rural America, potential threats to TikTok, and DoorDash’s drone delivery trial in Virginia.

Todd wraps up the episode by expressing his temporary absence due to his upcoming LA trip and that he will not be hosting episodes the following week. He encourages listeners to become show insiders by contributing and reiterating fan support’s importance. Lastly, he concludes with reminders to use one of the modern podcast apps, stay connected, and reach out via email.

AI tool finds cancer signs missed by doctors
Google Contacts
LG’s CineBeam Q 4K projector
Google Pixel’s market share grows
UPS worker accused of stealing iPhones
Google Pixel Fold 2
Fully AI-generated games by 2030?
The Soyuz MS-25 is set to launch on the ISS.
Glassdoor
AI-generated digital twins of patients
Microsoft just revealed a major surprise
Ford could soon take the fight to Tesla
Data loss affected 4 out of 5 organizations
A new DoS attack could hit thousands of online systems
House passes bill barring sale of personal information to foreign adversaries
Neuralink’s brain implant helps a man play chess
Samsung is giving away a free TV
A state legislator makes a deepfake of a colleague
Microsoft unveils Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6
DoorDash is testing a drone delivery feature in VA
A Danish man found guilty of fraudulently profiting from music streaming royalties
Senate plots next move on TikTok
Hong Kong’s national security law
The US and New Dehli and laptop rules
YouTube TV
E-waste is growing
Reddit is now a publicly traded company
DOJ files an antitrust lawsuit against Apple
A bunch of new Samsung TVs are finally available
Apple in talks with Google
FCC moves to relaunch billions to expand 5G in rural North America

The post Unlock Your Podcast’s Potential with Blubrry PAI: The Ultimate AI Assistant #1732 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Vid2Pod by Blubrry Podcasting offers an innovative solution for YouTube creators aiming to extend their content’s reach by effortlessly converting video playlists into high-quality audio podcasts. This new service by Blubrry podcasting is a boon for video-first creators, enabling them to tap into a new audience and ensure their content is accessible across all major podcast platforms. The process involves simply integrating your YouTube account, selecting a playlist for conversion, and instant distribution across platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

Todd Cochrane opens the episode of Geek News Central by introducing himself as “the tech talking man,” greeting listeners warmly. He then dives into his lead story, discussing Vid2Pod, a new service from Blubrry Podcasting that enables YouTube creators to convert video playlists into high-quality audio podcasts easily. Todd explains that the service allows video-first creators to reach new audiences by distributing their content across major podcast platforms. The integration with YouTube accounts is simple, with an automatic distribution feature that adds new videos to the podcast playlist.

Todd transitions with a sponsorship message, inviting listeners to check out deals at GoDaddy.com and Geek News Central’s partner shows. He emphasizes GoDaddy’s long-running sponsorship and highlights deals for domains, hosting, and website builders.

Next, Todd discusses the intro music he created using an AI tool from app.suno.ai, expressing amazement at the AI-generated music and suggesting listeners give it another listen. Moving on from personal updates, including a rib injury he recently incurred, Todd elaborates on Vid2Pod’s features and benefits further; it’s designed to assist YouTube creators in expanding their reach and offers monetization opportunities without the usual stringent platform requirements.

Continuing with the tech news, Todd shares about AI creating new jobs, SpaceX potentially building spy satellites for the US government, and Microsoft’s latest Windows update causing blue screen errors. He also touches on Homeland Security’s use of AI for various tasks, DARPA’s lunar economy plans, the UK government’s ambition to roll out flying taxis, and Microsoft’s AI event in May.

Switching gears, Todd mentions data breach news with Fujitsu and AT&T, the AI-powered clinical documentation for doctors, LinkedIn planning to add games and impending new AirPods models. He closes out the tech news by discussing Hertz CEO’s resignation.

Todd concludes with housekeeping items, mentioning he’ll be attending an event in LA next week, leading to a break from podcasting. He encourages listeners to check out modern podcast apps and become insiders by contributing to the podcast through donations or value exchange. Finally, Todd signs off by thanking listeners for their time and reminds them of his next recording date while emphasizing the importance of audience engagement and supporting GoDaddy.

Vid2Pod – Turn your YouTube playlist into a Podcast
The latest Windows 11 update may crash your PC
Homeland Security is testing AI
The US government and developing a lunar company
The UK government wants flying taxis to take off
SpaceX building hundreds of spy satellites
Fujitsu says it was hacked
Google Wallet gets an update
Uber Australia to pay millions
SCOTUS and social media
Windows and Surface AI event in May
Microsoft is blocking Russian firms from using its cloud services
Is TikTok’s parent company an agent of the Chinese state?
Rivian owners now have access to Tesla Superchargers
Grok AI has been open-sourced
Doctors and generative AI
TikTok launches Creator Rewards
70 million+ of AT&T files leaked online
AI to create a half billion new jobs
LinkedIn is adding games
The sound of your keystrokes to steal your passwords
YouTube requires creators to label AI-generated content
Apple’s AirPod launch in September
Hertz CEO steps down
Google Fitbit
Gemni AI to iPhones

The post Vid2Pod: Transform YouTube Playlists into a Podcast! #1731 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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In a momentous event, SpaceX’s colossal Starship, the world’s largest and most powerful rocket, achieved orbital speed for the first time today. This significant milestone occurred during its third test flight, marking a historic day for SpaceX and space exploration enthusiasts. Despite not completing its intended splashdown, the test was deemed successful as it accomplished several key objectives, advancing SpaceX’s ambitious space travel goals.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

In episode 1730 of the Geek News Central podcast, host Todd Cochrane discusses various topics, primarily focusing on the latest tech news.

The episode begins with Todd celebrating SpaceX’s Starship, which reached orbital velocity for the first time on its third test flight. However, the spacecraft didn’t achieve the planned splashdown. Todd, enthusiastic about space exploration, had watched the event live.

Todd then transitions to directly engaging with the audience, thanking them for their support and inviting them to become a Gekk News Central Insider @ geeknewscentral.com/insider He also gives a special acknowledgment to GoDaddy, the show’s primary sponsor, highlighting their continuous support since 2005. Todd details GoDaddy’s promotions and encourages listeners to utilize his promo codes for discounts on various GoDaddy services, asserting the importance of audience engagement in keeping the sponsorship alive.

Todd announces that the podcast is streaming live on Rumble for the first time and encourages listeners to join their chat room. He seeks the audience’s feedback on the podcast, the newsletter, and the AI-generated show notes.

The main topics covered in the podcast include discussions about TikTok and concerns over its Chinese ownership, with U.S. politicians urging for the sale or facing a ban. Todd shares his views against the government’s potential overreach and censorship. He also talks about the possible effects of AI and wearable tech on workers’ well-being and looks at the Geek News Central newsletter updates, which he mentions have been tweaked by AI for better quality.

Todd examines the Amazon advertising products that sellers no longer carry in certain states, leading to a waste of advertising dollars and a failure in geotargeting that affected sellers like Rob Robinson. He requests audience participation in conversations surrounding headaches experienced by astronauts, a new pregnancy insight feature by the Oura ring, and Mars’ gravitational pull affecting the Earth’s ocean floor every 2.4 million years.

In the realm of tech, Todd discusses security flaws discovered in ChatGPT plugins, Amazon’s attempt to increase workplace positivity by encouraging employees to dream about happiness, a project aiming to cut down interstellar travel time to decades, and a court ruling against a ransomware kingpin.

The podcast also provides insights on a variety of global concerns, such as Customs and Border Protection’s efforts to use AI for fentanyl detection, a French government department facing a significant data breach, Google Chrome’s enhanced real-time protection against malicious websites, and ongoing international collaboration to disrupt cybercrime.

Among the topics, Todd discusses Proton’s Desktop Mail app release, the surge in browser choice due to Europe’s digital marketing act, the trends in music streaming with more users paying for the service, the surge in bitcoin gains by U.S. investors, and Microsoft’s check writing to Caltech over patent infringement lawsuits.

The episode concludes with Todd encouraging listeners to become Geek News Central insiders and support the show financially or by using their time and talent. He emphasizes the importance of the audience’s engagement and the listeners’ support in maintaining the program’s independence and content quality.

Amazon says it sold ads for products shoppers couldn’t buy
Headaches experienced by astronauts in space
Oura’s new Pregnancy Insights feature
ChatGPT plugin flaws
Close your eyes and think happy thoughts
A massive interstellar project
CBP wants to use AI
Ransomware kingpin gets four years behind bars
Voyager 1
An operative and firms behind AI robocalls is sued
An international effort to disrupt cybercrime
A mega breach of the French government exposes millions of people’s data
Safe Browsing on Google Chrome
YouTube TV
New email standards
Princess Kate photo scandal
14 VPN terms and features you should know
Disney + password sharing
Anthropic
Remember the MacBook Touch Bar?
Nissan customers had their data stolen
The latest macOS Sonoma update
A computer scientist is not a Bitcoin inventor
SpaceX launches giant Starship rocket
Mars tugs on Earth so hard it changes the ocean floor
Microsoft agrees to settle lawsuit
Epic and Apple
Surge in browsers on iOS
The US Annual Music Study
AI and wearables
Steve Mnuchin is thinking about buying TikTok
ProtonMail
2023 Cryptocurrency gains by country
The US HHS is investigating Change Healthcare
The Apple Car as a minivan

The post SpaceX’s Starship Achieves Orbital Velocity in Historic Test Flight #1730 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Airbnb has taken a significant step to enhance guest privacy by prohibiting indoor cameras in rental properties. The new policy, aimed at ensuring guests’ peace of mind, extends to limit the use of outdoor cameras, requiring hosts to disclose their presence and ensuring they do not invade private spaces. The company’s decision to ban indoor … Continue reading Airbnb’s Indoor Camera Ban: A Win for Privacy #1729 →

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A federal lawsuit filed in the District of North California accuses Google of profiting from gift card fraud, particularly involving Google Play gift cards. The complaint highlights that Google has retained millions from such scams, either by commission from payments made with fraudulently obtained cards or by holding onto the funds. This comes amid FTC … Continue reading Google Under Fire for Alleged Role in Gift Card Scams #1728 →

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Gartner forecasts a significant shift in the digital marketing realm by 2026, predicting a 25% decline in traditional search engine volume due to the rising influence of AI chatbots and virtual agents. This evolution is poised to redefine marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of generative AI in content creation and the critical need for quality … Continue reading AI Chatbots to Redefine Search Marketing #1727 →

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In North Carolina, a Tesla Model 3 owner, James Hanna, experienced a sudden and alarming incident on Interstate 277. While driving to pick up his son, the car unexpectedly beeped and stopped completely in the middle of the highway despite having a 60% charge. Hanna, unable to restart the vehicle or re-enter it after exiting … Continue reading Tesla Model 3’s Suddenly Shutdown on Highway #1719 →

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Google has introduced a new disclaimer in Chrome’s Incognito mode following a $5 billion lawsuit alleging the mode’s misleading privacy claims. The updated blurb informs users about data collection practices, clarifying which browsing data is not saved and which Google can still access. This change comes after a federal judge allowed the lawsuit to proceed, … Continue reading Google’s New Chrome Disclaimer Following $5 Billion Privacy Lawsuit #1718 →

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Apple recently updated its App Store policies, introducing a 27 percent commission on alternative payment methods, following the Epic v. Apple court ruling. This move has drawn criticism from major players like Spotify and Epic Games. Spotify’s spokesperson, Jeanne Moran, expressed dissatisfaction, calling it a tactic to protect Apple’s profits. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney … Continue reading Apple’s New App Store Tax Sparks Outrage Among Critics #1717 →

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The recent hack of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Twitter account, which lacked multi-factor authentication (MFA), has prompted US lawmakers to review the SEC’s cybersecurity measures thoroughly. The incident, involving a fraudulent tweet about the SEC’s approval of Bitcoin ETFs, briefly inflated Bitcoin’s price to $48,000. In a bipartisan move, senators Ron Wyden and … Continue reading US Gov’t SEC Cybersecurity Review After Twitter Hack #1716 →

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OpenAI, renowned for ChatGPT, is reportedly negotiating a funding round that could potentially value the company at over $100 billion. Still under negotiation with terms and valuation subject to change, this development could position OpenAI as one of the world’s most valuable startups. Additionally, OpenAI is considering a new chip venture with Abu Dhabi-based G42, … Continue reading OpenAI’s Potential $100 Billion Valuation #1715 →

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Amazon Prime Video is set to introduce commercials into its streaming service starting January 29. Subscribers received notifications regarding this change, which requires paying an additional extortion fee of $3 monthly fee to maintain an ad-free experience. This applies to both Prime subscriptions and standalone Prime Video memberships. Initially, regions like the US, UK, Germany, … Continue reading Amazon Prime Video Introduces Ads: Extorts More for Ad-Free Streaming #1714 →

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Researchers from the Technical University of Denmark and Northeastern University have developed an AI model called ‘life2vec’ that can predict a person’s death with 78% accuracy within four years. This groundbreaking model, featured in ‘Nature Computational Science’, analyzes extensive sociodemographic data of six million people, including health records and lifestyle factors. The AI, similar to … Continue reading AI’s 78% Accuracy in Foreseeing Mortality within Four Years #1713 →

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The Internet Archive (IA) is appealing a court ruling that found its digital lending program copyright-infringing. IA’s non-profit library scans and lends physical books digitally, allowing only one patron at a time to borrow each digital copy. The New York District Court sided with publishers who sued IA, claiming copyright infringement and financial harm. IA … Continue reading Internet Archive Appeals Against Copyright Infringement Ruling #1712 →

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Elon Musk plans to establish a university in Austin, Texas, focusing on STEM education. Funded by a $100 million contribution from Musk’s charity, The Foundation, the university aims to provide high-level education in math, science, engineering, and physics. This initiative follows Musk’s history in education, notably the founding of Ad Astra and Astra Nova schools. … Continue reading Elon Musk’s Ambitious Texas University Project: Revolutionizing STEM Education #1711 →

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In a significant privacy breach, Verizon was deceived by a fake search warrant, resulting in the disclosure of a customer’s personal data to her stalker. The stalker, Robert Michael Glauner, who had previously had an online romantic relationship with the victim, used the information to locate and threaten her. Despite obvious signs of forgery, the … Continue reading Verizon’s Privacy Breach: How a Fake Warrant Endangered a Customer #1710 →

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Spotify announced cutting about 1,500 jobs, nearly 17% of its workforce, marking its third layoff round in 2023. CEO Daniel Ek cited economic slowdown and rising capital costs as critical reasons for this decision, following substantial investments in 2020 and 2021. Despite strong user growth and operating income, the company faces modest growth in North … Continue reading Spotify’s Major Workforce Reduction Amid Economic Challenges #1709 →

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Starting December 1, 2023, Google is set to close dormant accounts and everything they hold, including photos, emails, calendar entries, and more. The episode also delves into various cybersecurity concerns. It discusses a hacking incident at a US water utility, where an Iranian-linked group hijacked an industrial control system but didn’t compromise the water supply. … Continue reading Google Closing Inactive Accounts Starting on December 1st #1708 →

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OpenAI faces internal unrest as employees demand the reinstatement of ousted CEO Sam Altman and the resignation of the board. The turmoil follows Altman’s unexpected dismissal, with staff threatening to join him and Greg Brockman at a new Microsoft AI unit. The move has raised questions about OpenAI’s leadership, governance, and Microsoft’s involvement, given its … Continue reading OpenAi in total Chaos Demand Sam Altman’s Reinstatement! #1707 →

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OpenAI’s aggressive recruitment strategy, offering substantial pay packages to Google AI researchers. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, is in negotiations for an employee share sale potentially valuing the company at $86 billion. This move follows a previous share sale that valued OpenAI between $27 billion and $29 billion. Compensation for top talent from Google could … Continue reading OpenAI’s Bold Move: Offering $10 Million to Attract Google’s AI Experts #1706 →

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Today, I created 4 OpenAI custom GPTs that is the beginning of something completely revolutionary. I will never ever look at task the same going forward I will make a determination can I help myself or my company or my others. This is the start of Agent AI’s and I am as convinced of anything … Continue reading OpenAi Custom GPTs Change Everything #1705 →

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OpenAI’s latest offering, the Assistants API, enables developers to integrate sophisticated, agent-like experiences into their apps. This tool allows the creation of specialized “assistants” capable of handling tasks ranging from data analysis to vacation planning, powered by OpenAI’s Code Interpreter. This feature enables the execution of Python code and the generation of visual data representations. … Continue reading OpenAI Revolutionizes with Assistants and GPT-4 Turbo Enhancements #1704 →

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Apple Goes for Juggler An internal Apple presentation, disclosed as part of the Department of Justice’s evidence in the ongoing Google antitrust trial, blasts Google’s approach to user privacy, mainly targeting Android as a “massive tracking device.” The 2013 presentation, revealed in an email by Apple’s Eddy Cue to CEO Tim Cook, suggests that Apple … Continue reading Apple Accuses Android of Being a ‘Massive Tracking Device’ #1703 →

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Todd breaks down four AI articles, leading with an article by Andrew Ng, the co-founder of Google Brain, lifting the veil on the strategies employed by Big Tech giants in the realm of artificial intelligence. He posits that some of these companies might be inflating the risks associated with AI. But what’s the endgame? According … Continue reading Big Tech & AI: Power Play or Genuine Concern? #1702 →

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Hyundai is initiating mobile clinics in select US cities to address theft concerns by offering software upgrades. This move comes after the rise in theft of specific Hyundai models due to a missing engine immobilizer feature. This detail became widely known on social media platforms like TikTok. While the number of cities is limited, many … Continue reading Hyundai Launches Mobile Clinics for Anti-Theft Software Upgrades in US Cities #1701 →

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Google Chrome’s latest “IP Protection” feature coming soon will offer enhanced user privacy by routing traffic through a Google-owned proxy server, concealing IP addresses. This could hinder companies and data brokers from tracking users based on web behavior. However, this also implies that Google would have centralized access to users’ web-surfing habits. While the tool … Continue reading Chrome’s New IP Protection: Boon or Concern? #1700 →

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The Pentagon’s All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, headed by Sean Kirkpatrick, reveals a surge in unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) reports, with approximately 800 incidents reported as of April. Although most are identified as mundane objects like balloons, swamp gas or drones, concerns arise over a potential 2-4% that remain unexplained and might indicate foreign spying activities. … Continue reading Pentagon Probes Rising UAP Reports #1699 →

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Geek News Central celebrates 19 years of podcasting, one of today’s longest-running podcasts! Our lead story today is a stark warning for all of you: Before you purchase that affordable Android TV box, ensure it’s not from an unknown brand. Cybersecurity experts from Human Security have sounded the alarm, revealing that multiple Android TV boxes, … Continue reading Geek News Central 19th Anniversary Episode #1698 →

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Elon Musk, ever the tech industry’s maverick, has made headlines yet again with his recent decision to eliminate article headlines from links posted on X. To enhance the platform’s aesthetics, articles now appear as images with the source outlet displayed at the bottom-left. While Musk believes this change “greatly improves the esthetics,” some users are … Continue reading Musk Eliminates X Headlines #1697 →

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In this episode’s top story, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlights the escalating competition among tech giants for crucial content to enhance artificial intelligence. Amid a significant U.S. trial against Google, Nadella expressed concerns about Google’s exclusive and costly deals with publishers to amass content, a pivotal component for training AI systems. Such aggressive moves may … Continue reading Tech Giants Battle for AI Content #1696 →

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In a striking development, OpenAI, known for the celebrated AI chatbot ChatGPT, is discussing a remarkable share sale, potentially valuing the startup between $80 billion and $90 billion, a substantial leap from earlier this year. As OpenAI’s momentum surges with over 100 million active users of ChatGPT and the development of innovative AI technologies like … Continue reading OpenAI’s Explosive Valuation Surge #1695 →

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Elon Musk has announced that the next fully stacked SpaceX Starship is ready to launch. However, the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) hasn’t given its approval yet. The FAA is awaiting SpaceX to implement corrective actions following issues from the first launch attempt. Although Musk is confident, the FAA remains silent on whether they will approve the second launch attempt. This Starship launch is crucial for NASA’s Artemis program and Musk’s ambition to colonize Mars. True to the government they work at Government speed not civilian sector speed. So we will see how long they take to get the license approved.

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Show Notes:

Google Pixel 8 and Pixel Watch 2
Most people are using AI for fun
Musk stiffed Twitter vendors
Android has a worrying security flaw
Toyota suffered a major outage
Newly found bubble of galaxies
NASA’s Swift learns a new trick
A Russian gets 9 years in prison for hacking
Musk’s involvement in the war in Ukraine
Musk’s mighty missile
Tesla lawsuit
Honda will use Tesla’s EV charging standard
Victrola’s new Hi-Res wireless turntables
Chrome’s 15th birthday
The Hero 12 Black
The iPhone 15 lineup
LastPass
YouTube may get fewer ads on smart tv’s
Microsoft and Chinese hackers
Period trackers
China bans iPhones from more government offices

Show Summary:

Elon Musk has reportedly stiffed multiple vendors and contractors that were providing services to Twitter before he bought it. Over two dozen lawsuits have now been filed against Twitter by vendors trying to collect unpaid invoices.

GoPro unveiled its latest action camera, the Hero 12 Black, which has improved battery life, new capture modes like vertical video, and wireless syncing capabilities. It costs $400 and is available for pre-order now.

Experts believe some password vaults stolen during a recent LastPass breach have now been cracked, enabling a string of cryptocurrency thefts totaling over $35 million so far. Users are advised to switch to a different password manager.

Google teased the upcoming Pixel 8 phone and Pixel Watch in a new video ahead of their expected October 4th launch event.

ChatGPT skills could help people land jobs, but currently most people are using AI chatbots for entertainment. Knowledge of AI may become an employable skill.

Android and Apple both had critical security vulnerabilities recently that require users to update their devices.

Toyota had to halt production at all 14 Japanese plants for a total of 36 hours due to running out of server storage space.

Astronomers discovered an immense cosmic bubble over a billion light years wide using data from NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory satellite.

Overall the podcast covers a variety of tech news including space, phones, privacy, AI, security, and more.

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HP Once Again Screws Consumers. In a scandalous twist, HP faces heavy criticism for allegedly bricking the scanner functions on their multifunction printers when the ink runs low. In a recent legal battle, HP tried to dismiss these claims, but a federal judge has now ruled that the tech giant must confront the class-action lawsuit … Continue reading HP Accused of Bricking Scanners →

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Lead Story: The Geek News Central Podcast lead story, three American and two Russian astronauts stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) for almost a year are preparing to return to Earth. Their prolonged stay, six months beyond their scheduled mission, was due to damage to their original Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft, believed to be from … Continue reading Stranded Astronauts Set to Return #1687 →

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Todays Lead Story: Google is introducing enhanced online safety and privacy tool. They’ve improved the “Results about you” tool, which alerts users when their personal contact info appears on Google Search, allowing for easy removal. They’re also launching a SafeSearch blurring tool that hides explicit content by default in Search results. Furthermore, they’ve enhanced policies … Continue reading Google’s Enhances Online Safety Tools #1686 →

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From 2024, US taxpayers will transition to a completely paperless tax filing system with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Expected to reach full paperless processing by 2025, this initiative will save 200 million sheets of paper annually and reduce tax processing times. Taxpayers will enjoy faster refunds and the convenience of digital document verification. By … Continue reading IRS Transitions to Paperless Tax Filing #1685 →

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The SEC asked Coinbase to halt trading of all cryptocurrencies except bitcoin before suing them, indicating the agency wants to assert broader authority over crypto. Coinbase’s CEO said complying would have effectively ended crypto trading in the US. The SEC’s lawsuit identified 13 lightly-traded cryptos on Coinbase as securities, but their earlier request covered all … Continue reading SEC Wanted Coinbase Crypto Delistings #1684 →

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Twitter, now rebranded as “X”, is set for a transformative journey under the leadership of Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino. The new logo, a simple white “X” on a black background, has replaced the iconic blue bird. X aspires to be a futuristic platform, using AI to connect users in unimagined ways, focusing on audio, … Continue reading Twitter Rebrands as ‘X’ #1683 →

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Renowned former hacker, Kevin Mitnick, passed away on July 16th at 59 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Mitnick’s hacking exploits spanned from his youth in the 70s until his capture in 1995. Known for infiltrating cell networks, company and government websites, and famously never financially profiting from his exploits, Mitnick spent five years in … Continue reading Kevin Mitnick: Hacker to Cybersecurity Expert – RIP #1682 →

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The rise of generative AI in automating mundane tasks, traditionally assigned to entry-level workers, is causing concern among young workers. This technology is seen as a threat to their career development, especially as companies have increasingly neglected training and mentorship programs. Automating these tasks eliminates the last vestiges of on-the-job learning for young employees. Furthermore, … Continue reading AI’s Impact on Young Careers #1681 →

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A report by seven US lawmakers reveals that US tax preparation firms, including TaxAct, TaxSlayer, and H&R Block, have been sharing sensitive taxpayer data with tech giants Google and Meta. The companies allegedly used Meta Pixel and Google’s ad tools to share personal and financial information. Google and Meta blamed misconfigurations in their data-gathering tools … Continue reading Tax Firms Accused of Sharing Sensitive Data with Google, Meta #1680 →

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Meta’s new application, Threads, designed to compete with Twitter, hit a record-breaking milestone with over 30 million signups on its first day of global availability. Overseen by Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri, Threads aims to integrate with the “Fediverse,” the network of decentralized services like Mastodon, powered by ActivityPub. However, Threads faces some initial challenges, including … Continue reading Meta’s Threads App Surpasses 30 Million Signups #1679 →

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Meta has offered a detailed insight into how its AI algorithms decide the content users see on Facebook and Instagram. The company has rolled out 22 card systems explaining how content is ranked for Feed, Stories, and Reels based on user interactions and relevancy. These systems also guide on customization controls and a glimpse of … Continue reading Meta’s AI Algorithm #1678 →

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A poll by The Verge, Vox Media’s Insights and Research team, and research consultancy firm The Circus surveying 2,000 US adults provide fresh insights on public sentiment towards artificial intelligence (AI). While AI usage, particularly of dedicated AI tools, is primarily skewed towards younger users, there’s an overall expectation of AI’s significant societal impact. Public … Continue reading Public Opinion on AI Concerns #1677 →

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Google has released a quirky ad campaign for Pixel phones, dubbed “Best Phones Forever,” that humorously highlights the shortcomings of iPhones compared to Pixel phones. The campaign showcases the superior features of Pixel devices, such as astrophotography and security, in sitcom-like videos, often hinting at a friendly rivalry between anthropomorphized versions of the Pixel 7 … Continue reading Google’s Pixel Outshines iPhone in New Ads #1676 →

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Website owners are learning again not to trust third-party sites to drive website traffic. A sudden and unexpected change in Facebook’s algorithm during May 2023 has resulted in a significant decrease in traffic for news and media websites, leaving publishers desperate for answers. According to Echobox, a social media management firm, Facebook-related traffic fell by … Continue reading Opaque Algorithm Changes by Facebook Leave Publishers in the Dark #1675 →

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I am sure, in a bid to steal tech for the Chinese. A former Samsung Electronics executive, who previously served as vice president at SK Hynix, has been indicted in South Korea for purportedly stealing chipmaking technology to build a duplicate factory in China. The arrest is part of South Korea’s measures to safeguard its … Continue reading Samsung Ex-Executive Arrested for Alleged Chip Tech Theft #1674 →

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In a recent outburst Dmitry Rogozin, former director general of Roscosmos, voiced doubts about the authenticity of the Apollo Moon landings. This denialism is gaining traction, but it’s important to note that the Russians were observing the lunar landing in real-time from the ground and even had their spacecraft, Luna 15, in orbit around the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission. The Soviets were well aware of NASA’s achievements and had backchannel discussions with the American space program to prevent interference. Rogozin’s claim that Roscosmos only offered a book by cosmonaut Alexei Leonov as evidence for the landing is misleading and dismisses the significant history of the space race. One thing is for sure until we get back on the Moon and and take pics of footsteps, there will be some that never believe it.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes:

Ten disadvantages of owning an electric vehicle
Is a netbook worth using?
Did NASA land on the moon?
Western Digital hacked
A consultant used ChatGPT to free up time
Samsung gets FDA clearance
The White House challenges hackers
Meta may end Facebook in Canada
Google to revamp Search
Twitter to purge accounts
Marriage in space?
What’s the oldest known case of cancer in humans?
NASA is developing a robot
Amazon’s biggest TV shows could land on other streaming services
The airline system is melting down
Study shows that open browsers tabs are stressing you out
The next-gen Apple Watch
Most dead hard drives fail within 3 years
White House Pledges $140 million
Sony’s latest portable party speaker
Bank of Canada asks for public feedback
Here’s what the US Army picked for soldiers
Alphabet to Unveil AI updates

The post Debunking the Moon-Landing Denialism: Soviets Were Orbiting the Moon During Apollo 11 #1668 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Sal Khan, the founder of Khan Academy, discussed the potential of AI in transforming education during a TED Talk, highlighting its capacity to provide personalized tutoring for every student. Khan demonstrated the capabilities of Khan Academy’s chatbot, Khanmigo, which assists learners in various subjects without giving direct answers, encouraging problem-solving instead. Despite some concerns over plagiarism and misinformation, AI tools like Khanmigo can potentially revolutionize learning by offering tailored assistance and support to both students and teachers. What is super scary here is the potential for abuse, and revising history and providing slanted information will continue to erode education. Summary of Business Insider Article!

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes:

Amazon plans to rework Alexa
Googlers angry with CEO’s pay
AI is going to offer every student a personalized tutor
Working from home could lead to career advancement
Lyft Q1
Apple Q2
The US Government wants to use AI too
House lawmakers ask for an investigation into Apple’s labor practices
Is PayPal safe to use?
Paramount+ tops 60 million subscribers
Google Photos
Samsung’s next Galaxy Watch
Google I/O
A 30% tax on cryptocurrency energy
FTC says Meta misled parents
90,000 old BMWs too dangerous to drive
Europe won’t have reusable rockets
Waymo doubles service area
Tesla reopens long-range Model 3 orders
The Pixel Fold
Shopify sees a loss
Hulu adds PBS stations
The Boring Company will build a network
Bing AI for public testing

The post Revolutionizing Education: AI Personalized Tutors and Khan Academy’s Khanmigo #1667 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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In a recent talk, SpaceX founder Elon Musk discussed the debut launch of the Starship rocket, stating that the vehicle’s flight slightly exceeded his expectations and the damage to the launch site was minimal. He anticipates the Starship flying again in just two or three months. During the flight, three of the 33 engines were not deemed healthy enough for full thrust, but 30 engines were in good condition for liftoff. Despite some engine and heat shield issues, Musk remains optimistic about future launches. With upgrades to the rocket and launch pad, he expects the next Starship launch attempt in six to eight weeks but acknowledges that regulatory hurdles may take longer to clear. Musk hopes to achieve up to five flights this year and estimates SpaceX will spend around $2 billion on the Starship program in 2023. One thing is for sure the launch was nothing less than spectacular, and for space enthusiasts, it will be unique to watch this platform evolve.

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Microsoft partners with PayPal and more
Are digital wallets safe to use?
The nine best iPhone Apps to help seniors
“Godfather of AI”
NYC startup builds EV chargers
The NYPD Is giving away AirTags
NASA keeps Voyager 2 alive
Elon provides a detailed review of Starship’s first launch
Astronomers discover two super-Earths
Environmental groups sue the FAA
OpenAI gives in to Italy’s data
Over 100 Prime Video originals for free
FTC warns tech companies
Apple releases its first rapid-fire security updates
Stephen Hawking warned AI….’ the end of the human race.”
13 free tips to make your Windows run faster
The Super Mario Bros. Movie made $1 billion
Juice jacking attacks?

The post Elon Musk Reflects on Starship Debut, Anticipates Next Flight in Months #1666 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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YouTube Music officially adds podcasts to its platform in the United States for Android, iOS, and web users, offering a seamless and feature-rich podcast listening experience. The new addition comes after YouTube’s podcasting head, Kai Chuk, hinted at the integration a few months ago. Podcasts on YouTube Music will be available for on-demand listening, offline access, background play, and seamless audio-video switching, regardless of a user’s YouTube Premium subscription status. The update is gradually rolling out to US listeners, with plans to expand to international users in the near future. Geek News Central listeners, please continue to listen to the show via the normal podcast apps as YouTube is not using RSS and cannot be considered to be open.

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This app lets you search for everything
What’s new on Prime Video
8 Microsoft tweaks
Comcast Q1
NASA’s Voyager
Tesla violated labor laws
Samsung Q1
Clubhouse is laying off employees
Lyft is laying off employees
YouTube Music adds podcasts
Microsoft discontinues its accessories
Amazon Q1
Intel Q1
How long does it take AI to crack your password?
T-Mobile’s new plans
Meta Q1
GM created its own-source software protocol
Google’s Authenticator 2FA
Muslim dating app loses appeal
Global smartphone shipments fell
Dropbox is laying off employees
Twitter is complying with more government demands
The EU sets out patent rules
Brazilian court bans Telegram
The Tile for cats
Nine types of phone damage that aren’t covered by warranty
Musk must face questions about Autopilot

The post YouTube Music Expands Offerings by Adding Podcasts to Its Platform #1665 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The Supreme Court is set to hear two cases determining whether government officials can block their social media critics without violating the First Amendment. The cases involve California residents Christopher and Kimberly Garnier, who were blocked by school district members, and Michigan resident Kevin Lindke, who a city manager blocked. Previous rulings have been based on whether officials use their accounts for official activities. Still, the Supreme Court’s decision could establish a definitive precedent on the matter, potentially forcing government figures to allow criticism on social media as long as it doesn’t constitute harassment or threats. In this humble court of personal opinion, I feel that if you’re an elected official, you have the right not to listen but not the right to block people from saying what they want.

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Google I/O 2023
Travelers used to catch helicopters taxis
BeReal says it has more than 20 million daily active users
Sega of America workers are forming a union
Berkeley researchers deploy robots
Tesla to begin Cybertruck deliveries
Grad student helps design “artificial muscles.”
Disney begins the second round of job cuts
Getty Images and Trillium
A Japanese company is attempting a Moon landing
Bored Ape Yacht Club creator wins lawsuit
Are mandatory blue checks illegal?
Amazon drivers in California join a union.
Californians have bought more than 1.5 million electric vehicles.
Twitter claims dead celebrities are subscribing to Twitter Blue
Chromebooks short lifespan
Supreme Court will decide if government officials can block social media
Microsoft will reportedly unbundle Teams from Office

The post Supreme Court to Rule on Government Officials Blocking Social Media Critics #1664 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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It was only a matter of time before this became widespread. Using the pseudonym “Tom,” a Cardiff University student received the highest grade on an essay with the help of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The student adapted and tweaked content generated by the AI chatbot, resulting in a significant grade improvement compared to his non-AI-assisted essay. Cardiff University is now reviewing its academic integrity policies and aims to educate students on the proper use of AI in academic work. As I discussed in my podcast, universities must develop a new approach to essays.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes:

All the ways your bank will try to rip you off
Fastest ISP in the West
SpaceX’s starship is ready to fly
You can now order pizza via Apple CarPlay
Warren and AOC ask SVB depositors to detail ties to the bank
Mac shipments fall 40.5%
An incredible interactive map
250-foot asteroid speeding toward Earth
Canada proposes to develop a lunar rover for Artemis
Why a JUICE spacecraft will take eight years to get to Jupiter?
Tesla must be punished
Apple released last week’s security software patches
YouTube Premium adds more features
Worldwide PC shipments plunged by a third
Museum creates giant “Donkey Kong” cabinet
Baidu sues Apple
Twitter fails to report some political ads
FBI advises against using public phone charging stations
Cruise emits software patch
“The Super Mario Bros.” sets box office records
Tesla to build a new battery factory in Shanghai
Samsung to cut chip production

The post Student Scores Highest Grade with ChatGPT Assistance appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Imagine parking your car and having it send pictures of you inside your garage and send it back to Telsa? Well Reuters reports that Tesla workers shared sensitive images and videos captured by owners’ cars for several years, violating user privacy. Former employees revealed that colleagues circulated footage, including intimate moments and accidents, through group chats and one-on-one communications. Despite Tesla’s customer privacy notice stating camera recordings remain anonymous, one employee claimed it was possible to view the location of captured footage on Google Maps. Ironically I was talking about this with a fellow podcaster yesterday. I wonder if he will continue to share data with Tesla.

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Lyft expands its EV options in more markets
A 30,000-year-old furball
Pink Moon delights skywatchers
WSU students awarded for help solving dust problem
Disney creates new executive role
Amazon says diamonds are a network’s best friend
Tesla employees reportedly shared videos
A separate Space Force
Global VC funding falls dramatically
Walmart announces major expansion
Five apps and websites to learn faster
The dos and dont’s of location sharing
Always get a second opinion on tech repair
Vietnam warns TikTok, social media apps over “toxic content”
What would happen if an asteroid is headed to Earth
Meta’s layoffs are affecting customer service
UK’s Emergency Services Network
The creator of Cash App stabbed to death
In search of a space capsule
The oldest black hole in the universe
“Robin Hood Hacker”
Google will soon restrict loan apps

The post Tesla Employees Expose Owners’ Privacy by Sharing Camera Footage appeared first on Geek News Central.

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NASA has announced the Artemis 2 crew, which includes Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Hammock Koch from the US, and Jeremy Hansen from Canada. The mission is scheduled for November 2024 and will be the first human lunar mission since Apollo 17 in 1972. The crew will spend up to 21 days aboard an Orion capsule, circling the Moon before returning to Earth. Not as exciting as the Gemini project but likely very exciting for this crew to be part of this historic event.

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HTTP vs HTTPS
Astronomers find an ultramassive black hole
Musk revokes NYT’s Twitter badge
Musk loses in court
AI software helps astronomers
Google cuts back on fitness classes, tape, and more
Dogecoin prices spike 20%
The first cell phone call was 50 years ago
Ten tips for new Android TV users
What is WWDC?
New Google features in Search
These are the next astronauts that will fly on the mission to the Moon
Now scammers can use AI to fake anyone’s voice
Amazon faces FTC complaint
See Mars Jezero Crater for yourself
Tesla announces record deliveries
SpaceX plans to launch a rocket to Hawaii from Texas
New James Webb telescope photo
NASA policy discourages naming missions after individuals
Paris votes to ban e-scooters
US Navy to use hull-climbing bots
Western Digital discloses breach
VA didn’t check with CIO for its projects

The post Meet the Astronauts Set to Orbit the Moon in 2024 #1661 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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I spent a lot of time on the show today talking about my new assistant, Chatgpt, which I feel is increasing my productivity by at least 35%. Meanwhile, the CAIDP has filed a complaint against OpenAI, calling for a halt to generative AI models like GPT-4, citing bias, privacy, and misuse concerns. While I understand the concern I think pushing forward with ChatGPT-5 development can help solve these issues while reaping AI benefits across multiple fields. With some intelligent regulation and oversight, we can unleash AI’s potential while keeping things in check. Check out this cognizant article ChatGPT made me Cry!

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Four fixes to try if Windows won’t use all of your RAM
Six reasons why students choose MacBooks
The moon may get its own 4G network
11 must-have tools every techie should own
Seeing red on your new monitor?
Manchin vows to sue Biden.
Amazon consultant pleads guilty.
Meta wants EU users to apply for permission to opt-out
Google Drive has a hidden limit
A wooly mammoth meatball
Your wireless networks may leak data
SBF pleads guilty
Waymo’s taxi fleet will soon be electric
Github ordered to identify the user who leaked Twitter code
Paramount+ orders new Star Trek series
Audible is now testing ads
Ten mistakes to avoid when installing custom ROMs
FTC should stop OpenAI
Arc’s mobile browser
Windows 12 may be stripped down
Five-planet alignment in the sky in NJ
Webb Space Telescope shocks astronomers
An asteroid the size of 18 platypus
NASA releases draft strategy
More ads are coming to Bing’s AI
Apple’s mixed-reality headset may not appear at WWDC
Elon Musk surpasses Barak Obama to become the most followed
Roku will lay off another 200 workers
A new Twitter alternative

The post AI Development: Balancing Risks & Rewards #1660 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Twitter’s source code was leaked on GitHub, potentially exposing the platform’s vulnerabilities and trade secrets. The code was removed after Twitter filed a DMCA request. The company suspects a former employee may be responsible for the leak and has submitted a court filing in California to identify the perpetrator and any other GitHub users who may have downloaded the data. This incident comes amid turbulent times for Twitter since its acquisition by Elon Musk last year, with cost-cutting measures impacting the platform’s reliability. The leak precedes Twitter’s plan to open source its tweet recommendation code on March 31st. This is not surprising, considering how some employees felt about the takeover. Honestly, I am surprised that more source code has not found its way onto the web.

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That email is not from the IRS
Water trapped in tiny glass beads on the Moon
Android app from China executed 0-Day exploit on Android devices
Blue Origin’s launch failure
FTC bans scammy companies
The Tik Tok ban is a betrayal of the open internet
Publishers beat the Internet Archive
Disney’s start with first rounds of layoffs
Crypto does “not bring anything useful for society.”
Zoom partners with OpenAI
Binance was charged with violating laws
Apple releases iOS 16.4
Biden administration bans agencies from using commercial spyware
Amtrak is back on track
SVB was bought by rival
Apple CEO meets China commerce chief
Twitter says the source code was leaked
France bans all recreational apps
Martin Scorsese’s movie hits theaters before Apple TV+
Apple acquired a startup
Uber Eats is shutting down virtual restaurants
India cybergang busted
Lyft co-founders step down

The post Twitter Source Code Leak Investigation #1659 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Robert Metcalfe, co-inventor of Ethernet and namesake of Metcalfe’s law, has been awarded the prestigious Turing Award for his groundbreaking work in the 1970s. Metcalfe and the late David Boggs developed the first Ethernet at Xerox’s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) to connect Alto personal computers and laser printers. The technology quickly became the foundation of modern data communication and is still widely used today. With an estimated 7 billion Ethernet ports worldwide, Metcalfe’s contributions have impacted global communication infrastructure. The Turing Award comes with a $1 million prize, financially supported by Google. It’s nice to see these icons get awards for their work that has significantly impacted mankind—a well-deserving award.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes:

TikTok CEO testifies before Congress
How and where to buy refurbished tech online
An air taxi route at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport
Stop hackers from taking over your Android
Who invented the laptop?
Ingenuity’s helicopter’s 48th flight
Adobe and its Figma deal
Watch likely Chinese rocket burn up over Texas
Relativity Space had a successful fail
Ford will lose $3 billion
These US cities are leading EV adoption
America needs immigration reform
Journalists targeted bu USB drives that exploded in PC’s
The SEC charged a crypto CEO
The Northern Lights could dazzle the skies
AI finds the first stars
Tech makers must provide repairs for up to 10 years
Attackers hit Bitcoin ATMs
Turing Award goes to Robert Metcalfe
The FTC wants to make it easier for you to cancel subscriptions
Linus Tech Tips was hacked
OpenAI connects ChatGPT to the internet
Amazon driver delivers package during a police standoff
A huge asteroid will soar between Earth and the Moon
FTX will recover assets

The post Ethernet Inventor Metcalfe Wins Turing #1658 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman expressed concerns over the potential risks posed by language models, such as their use in disinformation campaigns or cyber-attacks. In an interview with ABCNews, he urged caution and acknowledged that people should be glad that OpenAI is aware of these dangers. However, the company has faced criticism for withholding technical details about its GPT-4 model. Critics question why the technology is available for purchase if it’s as dangerous as claimed. Altman noted that other creators might not implement the safety measures OpenAI has in place. In my opinion, the real challenge that Altman did not discuss was that laws to prevent abuse would be years in the making.

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Kamado Joe’s new ceramic grill
The history of the iPhone
Scientists grow antlers on mice
BBC advises staff to delete TikTok
Ikea adds stock-counting drones
Mars rovers could explore like Hansel and Greta
A new glittering star cluster image
Where to see solar eclipses in 2023 and 2024
A Google Pixel bug lets you “uncrop” screenshots
Samsung’s expanded OLED TV lineup
Netflix plans to release 40 more games
The FTC’s pursuit of Amazon
Amazon will layoff another 9,000 employees
GPT-4 could be used for nefarious purposes
The FDIC intends to break SVB into two banks
AWS wants to cook its chips in vegetable oil
Microsoft to give more thought to your Windows 11 needs
Apple gets patent for a folding phone that closes
Acer is making an e-bike
A small business owner was “jerked around” by SVB
Netflix’s ad-supported tier is gathering momentum
Tavus
Students built a satellite with AA batteries and an Arduino board
Comcast’s 10G
The average Adobe staffer makes $170,000 a year
The next-gen “Digits” robot gets a head and hands

The post Altman Warns of Language Model Risks #1657 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The Hackneys, a couple with developmental disabilities, wonder whether an AI tool used by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services to predict children’s risk of harm led to removing their 8-month-old daughter from their home. The Hackneys’ daughter had been hospitalized for dehydration, and child welfare officials took custody of her, accusing a couple of neglect. Over a year later, their daughter remains in foster care, and the Hackneys struggle to understand how taking their daughter to the hospital could be considered neglectful. If AI resulted in children being taken from parents, we have much to worry about.

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Why mobile games are bad for you
Your holographic face on a Tron action figure
NASA begins building its first robotic Moon rover
New Horizon Pluto probe
Microsoft announces Copilot
Ex-Wells Fargo executive pleads guilty
Peter Thiel said he had $50 million in an account with SVB
Firefox has a new feature
Selling TikTok won’t satisfy US security concerns
YouTube TV raises its prices
FCC makes its first rule to block scam robotexts
Dual Tesla lawsuits
FCC proposal for smartphones to link to satellites
Toshiba plans board meeting to discuss buyout offer
NASA reveals new spacesuit
UK ministers banned from Tik Tok
FTX files for bankruptcy
Foxconn will make AirPods
DOJ is investigating AI
US agency breached by hackers
Virgin Orbit furloughs employees
NASA spots first evidence of an active volcano
The FedNow service

The post Couple with Disabilities Wonder if AI Tool Led to Daughter’s Removal #1656 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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So you have to wonder, after the federal government did a complete bailout of Silicon Valley Bank, will all banks in the future get this royal treatment, or will those of us that bank with banks that do not have venture capitalist money in them be thrown to the curb? How did this bank get special treatment? While I am happy for those that got their money back, when does this happen to non-politically connected institutions?

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Meta threatens to restrict news in Canada
Lowe’s is testing robots
How to clean bloatware off your PC
A 1,000-pound meteorite found in Texas
Starlink prices are increasing
AI will allow anyone to be a programmer
YouTube mulls “1080p Premium” option
LastPass
iMessage to Windows 11
Non-certified USB-C accessories on iPhone
Chuck. E Cheese is still using floppy disks
Artemis 2
Relativity Space is preparing to launch the first 3D-printed rocket
NASA revives IBEX probe
Pixel Watch
Discord won’t store call recordings
Rivian’s electric delivery vans
Automattic acquires a plugin
Volkswagen in Canada
DoNotPay is not fit for the purpose
A point-and-shoot camera for the visually impaired
Starlink is getting ready to test its satellite to cell phone service
What is browser hijacking?
Go fishing with a record player.
ChatGPT in GM vehicles
Another EV recall
Samsung caught faking zoom photos of the Moon
ISP promises broadband without a contract
NASA identifies new asteroid
US regulators will protect all deposits at SVB

The post Silicon Valley Bank get Full Bailout #1655 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Can you indeed be Anonymous Online? Well, a California court will decide if an anonymous Reddit poster will be outed on who they actually are based on an ongoing discovery phase of litigation that does not involve Reddit. Kudos to Reddit for battling for their user’s rights to remain anonymous.

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Meta shouldn’t open the metaverse to teens
Google and Canada
Six websites and apps that will reward you
NASA and SpaceX
Neuralink trials denied
SBF tries to revise bail conditions
CNET is doing layoffs
Waymo hit by a second round of layoffs
Tesla’s Investor Day
Dashlane
The Xerox Alto
Google workers in Japan joined a labor union
Movies Anywhere
FTC moves to ban BetterHelp
Ford’s new AI
Ford will restart F-150 Lighting production
Ooni’s Volt 12
Ring founder steps down
Reddit asks the court to protect users’ anonymity
The ten best ad-free weather apps
SpaceX makes its 101st straight landing
Europe wants the moon to have its time zone
The new Insta Max 12
OnlyFans lost a legal battle
Ford files for a patent
Crashing spacecraft into asteroids is a viable defense strategy
Biden’s national cybersecurity strategy

The post Can you truly be Anonymous Online? #1654 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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SpaceX is in a bind with the Starship launch running behind. They have had to launch “V2 Mini’ Satellites to help them increase their already over-sold capacity, resulting in lower-than-expected performance. I have seen it with my Starlink account while, at the same time, they continue to raise the prices of the service to try and have fewer folks in oversold regions using the service. The V2 Mini has 5x the capacity, so it appears they will try to fill some gaps. Meanwhile, the Falcon 9 can only put 21 of these into orbit per launch due to the heavier weight.

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20:53–Why smartphone cameras will kill off the DSLR
45:03–What’s new on HBO Max in March
22:27–You can now fly the largest aircraft
24:16–The U.S and Russia come together
26:11–Uber’s effort to eliminate its carbon footprint
27:27–The McRib Locator
Nokia reveals new logo
45:16–Arnold Schwarzenegger returns
12:14–Twitter employees will soon receive stock awards
28:39–Astrophotography in March
29:29–Meteorite causes boom
15:42–SpaceX will launch “V2 Mini” satellites
30:33–Tesla pauses Full Self-Driving
31:25–“Fab 4” chip alliance
33:27–Snapchat warns of hallucinations
19:05–Microsoft pushed an “inaccurate” Windows 11 upgrade
34:36–Huawei dominates MWC
37:13–Canada is reportedly banning Tik Tok
38:26–Facebook and Instagram
39:52–New iPhone SE
40:46–Waymo in LA
41:54–Warner Bros. Discovery sues Paramount
43:19–Mercedes-Benz is bringing WebEx meetings to sedans
44:00–Nothing and others and satellite connectivity
13:38–Amazon removes books from Kindle Unlimited

The post SpaceX Launched ‘V2 Mini’ Satellites #1653 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Podcasts are coming to YouTube Music, but given Google’s history in Podcasting of being on and off again, time will tell if they are serious this time. Lot’s going on in the tech industry again after things have been relatively cool over the past few months.

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19:12–Alibaba reduced its workforce
13:02–Security-first focus in doling out chip aid
16:48–Comcast admits another mistake
19:48–Google’s company culture as a “paradise” to “quite grim.”
22:09–“Most top apps” on Android have misleading privacy labels
23:58–US Copyright Office withdraws copyright
10:41–Meta must pay $175 million
25:20–The EU consults with Europe Tech
27:49–Japanese balloon startup to “democratize space.”
28:48–Google TV’s new family page
29:23–California is home to Tesla
30:56–Meta reforms its penalty system
31:44–Netflix cuts prices in 30 countries
07:17–Podcasts coming to YouTube Music
32:52–SBF faces four additional charges
34:24–Bing’s AI search on Android and iOS
35:38–Twitter is killing 2FA
How to clean a laptop
37:38–Ukraine suffered more data-wiping malware than anywhere
38:43–Samsung’s smartphone to the satellite communication platform
39:50–Social Media is a significant cause of mental illness in teen girls
41:28–Google staff asked to share desk space
42:37-A piece of a meteorite recovered in South Texas
43:35–A DNA company vows to improve information security.

The post Podcasts coming to YouTube Music #1652 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Is Artificial Intelligence already dangerous? Based on an article that has been widely circulated, it sure is not healthy, in my opinion. An article written by Simon Wilson has the hair on the back of my neck standing up, and I firmly believe we need to be very careful moving forward, or a lot of people will get hurt or worse. Seriously you need to read the linked article and then chime in on what you think! Some of the commentaries by the Bing chatbot should have Microsoft removing it from service.

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Google relies on human employees to improve Bard
Should you say goodbye to passwords?
RIP IE
15 must-have Windows apps
“Tetris”
Anker recalls power banks
An AWS data center for the military
SCOTUS to decide the legal fate of AI search
Falcon 9 rocket set to launch
A skinny robot documents the forces eroding a glacier
Is a solar storm coming?
Hubble spies odd pair of galaxies
Musk says he’s not going anywhere as Twitter CEO
Pot ads come to Twitter
The founder of WallStreetBets is suing Reddit
TwitchCon 2023
Paramount+ prices are going up
TikTok Trivia
YouTube CEO steps down
Tesla admits beta may cause crashes
Tile and $1 million dollars
FCC proposal requires phone companies to help domestic survivors
Mark Zuckerberg’s security costs $14 million dollars
Snapchat announces 750 million active users
Tech CEOs hit with subpoenas
Plex users can now skip movie and TV shows credits
A 99-year-old man says cryptocurrency is for idiots

The post Is Artificial Intelligence already Dangerous? #1651 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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How is it that the White House can’t explain Chinese balloons? We are one of the most powerful nations on earth, and these idiots shoot the balloons down over water or some god-forsaken remote area and then do not put in the resources to explain what is going on. While I understand there will likely never be releasable pictures, they need to come forth with the truth, but they do not want to upset the apple cart and play a game of cat and mouse. Sadly, we are the mouse, and the Chinese government is laughing and celebrating our stupidity.

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22:53–Google’s “dumpster fire”?
24:07–11,000 sites infected with malware
21:25–Z-Library returns
24:56–An AI agent flew an aircraft
26:32–California’s first electric short-hop ferry
28:34–Twitter delays new paid API
28:49–Google Pay vs. Samsung Pay vs. Meta Pay vs. Amazon Pay vs. Apple Pay
22 movies almost impossible to watch on DVD
29:19–Samsung’s UI update
29:45–How to get free Wendy’s French Fries this week
30:37–Some Meta employees are getting paid to do “zero work.”
32:34–Toyota recall
33:49–Bing AI with ChatGPT now available for some users
34:06–Apple wants to offer your digital life for rent
36:10–DoorDash’s Super Bowl commercial
37:18–Man dies after sneaking loaded firearm into MRI room
20:28–TikTok is reporting working on a paywall
39:14–Ford’s EVs
39:31–iPhone 14 Pro Max costs more to make than iPhone 13 Pro Max
40:06–Twillo layoffs
40:24–Google miscalculates severance payments
40:46–Apple OS updates
41:07–The Pentagon is bad at managing its employee’s smartphones
42:14–Comcast is ending free Peacock access
42:37–Instagram’s sex censorship

The post White House Can’t Explain Chinese Balloons #1650 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Google appears to have changed its mind and will not block all AI-generated content. But it appears they may qualify content, aka if you use AI to report sports scores and the like it will be ok, but they are still going to go after content that appears to be manipulating keywords and changing content. So they will be looking at those abusing AI for SEO reasons. GNC will remain human-curated.

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22:54–Microsoft wants students to develop better habits
24:11–Satellite photos capture snow on Mars
24:59–TP-Link’s new budget robot vacuum
Twitter expands the character limit, then breaks
28:22–Shopify is trying to lure sellers away from Amazon
31:17–ESPN will “one day” be streaming only
20:49–GM strikes a deal
32:28–Redwood gets $2 billion
26:47–Elon Musk fired a top engineer
33:40–Singapore pulls plug on COVID tracking program
34:14–FTX gets court approval to subpoena SBF
35:38–Find My Kids app
38:04–Lucid and a $7,500 “EV credit.”
41:23–Autopilot was not a factor in the Tesla crash
42:01–Curiosity finds the clearest evidence yet for water on Mars
42:51–Yahoo plans to lay off staff
43:40–Netflix expands account sharing restrictions
44:28–Meta restores Trump’s Facebook and Instagram accounts
45:11–1Password will soon skip passwords
45:54–The FCC approves Amazon’s plan to mitigate its satellite system
Lyft Q4

The post Google to not Block AI Generated Content! #1649 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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FTX wants the donations back that SBM gave to politicians and political action committees. I am not so sure how that work seems something given is given, and not sure how they can ask for the money back regardless of what has transpired with SBM. They say they will go to court if necessary to get the money!

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11:10–FTX wants their money back
20:21–Your Ex’s name in cat litter
17:12–Scientists are modifying catfish with alligator DNA
21:53–Jupiter overtakes Saturn
23:20–Twitter expected to face the EU rules
24:46–Twitter suspended 400,000 accounts
28:34–How to spot a fake account on Twitter
30:00–Apple could roll out a high-end iPhone
13:29–Google is feeling the heat from its employees
31:28–Ben Affleck is now a meme
Dell announces layoffs
37:26– Tesla raises Model Y prices
27:21–Experts say Twitter is not doing enough to curb child exploitation
38:28–AMC is raising prices for its seats
39:46–This monstrous DIY mechanical keyboard
15:47–Google unveils BARD
41:55–Pakistan unblocks Wikipedia

The post FTX wants their donations back? #1648 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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ISP Lied to FCC to Block Competitor Funding by putting in false data about where they currently offered service and at what speeds, which would have made it hard for a competitor to get expansion funds due to there not being a need to build out an area. Yet this lie is in areas with no ISP services existing at all. Not only are people suffering and unable to get high-speed internet, you now have ISPs lying about where they do have service, making it even harder for consumers to get high-speed service.

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21:20–Nine signs your laptop has water damage
18:08–Netflix and GM
16:49–Samsung’s Galaxy S23 lineup
22:25–The Moon just passed in front of Mars
23:22–Unopened 1st generation iPhone hits the auction block
16:07–Google is reportedly testing its own AI chatbot
19:29–These streaming services still let you share your passwords
13:35–CNET pushed reporters to be more favorable to advertisers
24:24–Auburn University blocked TikTok
08:47–ISP admits lying to the FCC
25:10–Amazon won’t build warehouse storm shelters
26:36–Starbucks now lets you pay with Venmo
26:51–Comcast will air the Super Bowl in 4K
27:20–Meta paid for data scraping
28:22–Amazon’s delivery drones
30:04–Over 100,000 unfilled jobs in IT
31:22–Mark Zuckerberg’s net worth is $12 billion
31:57–ACLU pushes back against Google
33:38–Apple and Google face mounting pressure to remove TikTok
34:16–A robot spy beaver
34:49–SpaceX launches 53 more Starlink satellites
35:08–Six new electric Volvos
35:21–FTC fines drug discount app
36:38–Twitter to end free access to its API
37:25–NJ lawmakers considering “Seinfeld” telemarketing bill

The post ISP Lied to FCC to Block Competitor Funding #1647 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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A study says employees who do not have to commute devote more time to their jobs than those with higher productivity. It’s a fascinating study and one that makes me wonder if it’s truly true as there are so many variables out there that could affect this.

It’s time to consider becoming a GNC Podcast Insider. Contribute $2, $5, $10, $15, $20, or $25 a month, or make a one-time donation. You can also boost the show V4V and have your boost read live; the easiest way to support the podcast is through a new podcasting 2.0 app at NewPodcastApps.com. You can also contribute by Bitcoin/Satoshis with GetAlby.

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14:00–Star Trek: Picard
12:07–China’s search engine to launch a ChatGPT rival
14:59–Google Doodle celebrates Bubble Tea
15:54–What’s new on Paramount+
16:28–RIP Lisa Loring
17:10–A former Google executive is suing the company
13:04–Twitter makes first interest payment
18:05–Charter settles with family of murder victim
11:08–Uber Eats
19:51–Apple plans to release a foldable iPad
20:17–What to expect from Samsung’s Unpacked event
21:02–Nothing Phone 2
09:27–Mercedes-Benz and Level 3
22:18–TikTok’s CEO will testify
23:22–NY is mulling about paying in crypto
25:05–Frontier rolls out 5Gps fiber internet
26:07–SpaceX is targeting two launches
06:27–When employees don’t commute, they work
27:00–US wins support
28:28–Nissan has a plan
30:09–San Fransico and the rollout of driverless taxis
30:51–Tech CEO nixes AI stunt

The post Productivity Higher when Employees work from Home? #1646 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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An AI Bot has passed a business school exam where the professor said he would have given the bot a B or B- on the full exam but that some of the answers were A+ worthy. We are headed towards exciting times which could forever change humanity. The number of AI-type pitches I am getting is at least 1-2 a week.

It’s time to consider becoming a GNC Podcast Insider. Contribute $2, $5, $10, $15, $20, or $25 a month, or make a one-time donation. You can also boost the show V4V and have your boost read live; the easiest way to support the podcast is through a new podcasting 2.0 app at NewPodcastApps.com. You can also contribute by Bitcoin/Satoshis with GetAlby.

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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes:

19:41–Google’s staff cuts avoided “much worse” issues
21:03–Big banks on a new digital wallet
22:07–A federal Department of AI
12:32–A ChatGPT bot passed a Wharton business school exam
24:10–Wandercraft’s exoskeleton clears FDA
18:35–USTVGO shuts down
25:03–Anonymous and Pseudonymous Data
25:59–You.com
28:06–Merrian-Webster buys Quordle
16:19–The first small modular nuclear reactor
28:27–Don’t miss Saturn and Venus tonight
A black hole eats a star
29:16–JPMorgan CEO says remote work isn’t good for young people
30:10–Amazon union organizer says he was fired
30:41–Supreme Court puts off a showdown
31:31–Meta brings more features to Messenger
32:17–Stripe partners with Amazon
33:14–Apple releases iOS 16.3
09:22–CNET’s AI journalist committed plagiarism
33:43–ICE releases asylum seekers
37:00–Microsoft to stop selling Windows 10 downloads

The post AI Bot Passes Business School Exam #1645 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The contest concludes. I reveal in the show which of the two posts referenced in the last episode was created by the AI bot. The results are going to surprise you. The two referenced AI services in the show were Jasper.AI and Contents.com, of which I reveal that Contents.com is currently the superior product of the two I have tested. If any other company would like to participate in a future AI contest, feel free to let me know.

It’s time to consider becoming a GNC Podcast Insider. Contribute $2, $5, $10, $15, $20, or $25 a month, or make a one-time donation. You can also boost the show V4V and have your boost read live; the easiest way to support the podcast is through a new podcasting 2.0 app at NewPodcastApps.com. You can also contribute by Bitcoin/Satoshis with GetAlby.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.
Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat
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Like and Follow Geek News Central Facebook Page.
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Support the show by becoming a Geek News Central Insider Show Notes:
25:56–Twitter Interest Payment.
29:40–Reed Hastings to Step Down from Netflix.
32:00–Ransomware Down?
33:46–Nasa Nuclear Propulsion.
35:51–Netflix 385K Flight Attendant.
36:00–New Apple Homepod.
36:48–How to become self-employed.
37:13–10 Great WordPress Plugins.
38:07–Nuclear Powered Datacenter.
39:36–Star Graveyard.
40:17–Planet Nuclear Fusion.
41:31–Peter Thiel Bitcoin Riches.
43:09–FTX to restart?
43:50–Wikipedia Updates.
44:42–Paypal Breached.
46:06–Twitter Blue for Android.

The post The AI Bot Contest Conclusion #1644 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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I have posted two articles on Geek News Central. One is a CES 2023 Wrapup, and the other is an announcement for Quicklinks, a new product released by my company today.

The post The AI Bot Contest #1643 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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am back from CES 2023, and the 35 hours of live coverage we did is in the can and being processed into specific episodes

The post 1st Show of 2023 #1642 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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I am back in the saddle for a final show of 2022. Big shout out to all of the Geek News Central Insiders and those who have jumped to a New Podcasting App and supported the show via Satoshi donations via the lightning network. I also want to say that Kirk, the Executive Producer, has done all the show prep this year extraordinarily. I big thank you to this show audience for your ongoing support of the show as well. Please have a safe New year and join us here starting Thursday the 5th for the live stream of CES 2023

The post Happy New Year Edition #1641 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Twitter Blue for individuals, Gold for businesses, and Grey for government officials, but you will have to pay $8.00 monthly to get it.

The post Twitter Blue, Gold & Grey? #1640 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple Advances User Security in a big way with announcements today about beefing up encryption across many facets of iCloud storage.

The post Apple Advances User Security #1639 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Twitter Files announcements are huge revelations for Big Tech, MSM & Politicians and should wake people up if they can just leave there politics at the door for 10 minutes.

The post Twitter Files Revelations for Big Tech, MSM & Politicians #1638 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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German-based Hive App shut down servers for security issues because it reportedly leaked user data like crazy. Instead of patching it on the fly, they shut the service down and left users hanging because it was full of holes, security researchers reported.

The post Hive App Shuts down Servers for Security Issues #1637 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Has Apple helped suppress the Chinese people and, in turn, helped the Chinese Government in recent crackdowns?

The post Is Apple Helping the Chinese Government #1636 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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You can now support this show by the minute while using the fountain podcast app and its ability to stream Satoshi to the show at an amount you set by the minute.

The post Satoshi Per Minute Value 4 Value V4V #1635 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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I always complain about the Broadband cost I pay for not only my home internet but my office internet, which is insane. I am not alone; compared to other modern places

The post Broadband Cost in America #1634 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Based on preliminary reports, many people should be imprisoned for a very long time over the FTX's apparent Ponzi scheme, which allegedly lost 16 billion dollars in investors' crypto investments.

The post FTX’s 16 Billion Dollar Ponzi Scheme #1633 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple has placed restrictions on Apple Airdrop in China to keep activists from openly sharing police brutality and political information against the Chinese Dictator. This is now the first time Apple has bowed to Chinese government pressure in restrictions on Apple devices.

The post Apple Bow’s to Chinese Pressure #1632 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Starlink just ruined their service with Data Caps. Rural users once again get screwed! Saved from Broadband hell and now to be throttled after 1TB of monthly usage. Very pissed off that 1TB for a Family is insulting. Elon try living in rural America, where there are few options. Plus, the insane price of paying 25 cents per GB for overage if you do not want to be throttled. Just cheaper to buy a second dish. Not a happy camper. That is the worst news of the year.

The post Starlink just ruined the service with data caps! #1631 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The media cannot get enough of Elon at the helm at Twitter with a bit of trolling and him moving fast to produce revenue. I share my thoughts on the new $8.00 fee for Twitter blue and all the expected changes. This time next week, things should calm down in the tech space, but wow, the Twitter news is everywhere.

The post Twitter Mania Continues with Elon making Changes #1630 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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A new era has begun at Twitter, with Elon Musk taking control, delisting the company from the stock exchange, and at the very same time, letting the board of directors go. He very quickly started to make changes and brought in an army of engineers and friends that he trusted to figure out what is happening in the company. Employees are running scared, and he has set some immediate agendas and goals. We will see what happens as he fully works to bring the company into profitability.

The post Elon Musk & Twitter’s New Era! #1629 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Tonight we celebrate 18 years of podcasting and the journey thus far. Thank you for your long-term support of the show and those that have contributed to the show and supported our sponsors over the years. I am truly humbled. See you a week from now as I am on my way to Riyadh for the Ignite conference to talk about podcasting.

The post Celebrating 18 Years of Podcasting #1628 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Paypal was going to play moderator of content its customers were posting and impose a $2500 fine for any instance they deemed misinformation.

The post Paypal Scorned for Planned $2500 Penalty #1627 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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NASA will be flying over five states to search for rare earth minerals to support green initiatives and not depend on the Chinese to sustain green energy manufacturing.

The post NASA Aircraft searching for Rare Earth Minerals #1626 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Amazon has launched 11 new products leading up to the holidays and their next big sale. See all the details. I will be hosting the Podcast Awards ceremony at 9 pm Eastern tomorrow, Friday the 20th, on all my normal streaming locations. You can also grab the latest New Media Show to glimpse what is happening in the Podcasting 2.0 space I have been talking about.

The post Amazon Launches 11 New Products #1625 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Dictator Putin has made Edward Snowden and Russian citizen. The traitor has lived in Russia for many years under the regime's protection. I can only hope that they give him a job in the national security sector, and he also leaks Russian secrets. Congrats to NASA and their successful impact on the Asteroid by the Dart probe.

The post Putin makes Snowden a Russian Citizen #1624 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Artemis 1 appears to finally have its leaks fixed and will potentially be able to launch on its third attempt next Tuesday. We will see if our US tax dollars can get this beast off the pad and into space. If so, NASA will be able to redeem itself after being made look like fools the past month or so.

The post Artemis 1 ready for next Tuesday #1623 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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YouTube has increased the number of ads viewers endure to unprecedented numbers. Some of them are as short as six seconds, with many ads across programming unable to be skipped, and viewers are not happy. This is one reason why I pay for an ad-free YouTuber experience. How many ads are you being forced to watch on my YouTube channel?

The post YouTube Increases Ad Load #1622 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Blue Origin Capsule Safely Escapes after the main stage suffered an anomaly. This was an uncrewed flight, but the systems worked as advertised, the capsule was fully recovered

The post Blue Origin Capsule Safely Escapes #1621 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The FCC is finally on course to release ISP coverage maps down to specific addresses and the speeds obtained at that address. This will finally lay out the digital divide and show how screwed those in rural America are. I cannot wait to see this data and compare it to ground truth in November.

The post FCC to release Detailed ISP Maps #1620 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Streaming has surpassed cable viewing for the first time, and in my opinion, the days of cable operators being in control are near the end. Netflix and YouTube made up the majority of the streaming percentages. People are tired of paying ridiculous sums for television services.

The post Streaming Surpasses Cable Viewing #1619 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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California may keep the Last Nuclear Power Plant as it will have difficulty meeting its carbon emission goals. Imagine that nuclear power making sense as it has for evermore. We will have millions of dead batteries, but what're a few radioactive pellets? It seems to me that running Nuclear for another 20 years would be much cheaper.

The post California may keep Last Nuclear Power Plant #1618 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The idiots at the FCC rejected Starlink for rural internet access funds saying the service was too experimental and still not proven. Someone over there needs to be forced to live out in the middle of nowhere and get stuck with no service as much of rural America is forced to deal with. Starlink has been instrumental in changing how and where I can now work.

The post FCC rejects Starlink for rural internet access funds #1617 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Deepfakes just lore five years ago are now on the rise and soon may increase at a greater rate as the technology behind them increases. Deepfakes in Audio are already very easily constructed and scary, considering you may have to defend yourself from things you did not say. Video is on the rise as well; not as easily done, but some deepfakes are quite convincing.

The post Deepfakes Pose a Growing Danger #1616 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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SpaceX has upgraded their Satellites but needs Starship to get them to orbit as the new Starlink antennas are bigger and heavier. So the pressure will mount for Elon Musk to get Starship headed to orbit and make it re-useable. Astronomers will be very happy with this, but many very bright Starlink satellites are still in orbit.

The post SpaceX has upgraded their Satellites but needs Starship #1615 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The UEFI Rootkit that has been discovered has been in the wild since 2016, with it only now being discovered is an absolute disaster primarily at this point for Windows users! How something so sinister can go undetected for this long is a tragedy. We had some boosts to the show from the fountain podcast app thank you to those early adopters.

The post Discovery of new UEFI Rootkit is bad news! #1614 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The Fountain Podcast app is a new app that I have been using that allows me to earn money while listening to shows I love while at the same time being able to boost shows that I love with a small or large donation in the form of Boosts that allow me to give satoshis aka derivative of a bitcoin to shows. There is much tech news today, but check out the Fountain Podcast App that supports Podcast 2.0 initiatives.

The post Download the Fountain Podcast App #1613 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Experian, according to KrebsonSecurity, has an unacceptable security risk for nearly every person's credit monitoring that could be easily solved with MFA and some changes in how new accounts are created. But now they have a big gaping security hole that is being exploited. Experian has had a bad run of late with security issues, and they need to get a handle on it now.

The post Experian has unacceptable security issues! #1611 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Starlink customers don't want their service interrupted by Dish and have filed 90,000+ comments with the FCC over the matter, including yours truly, who want to ensure that high-speed internet via Starlink remains. Many of the comments are similar to those I made as well.

The post FCC Get’s 90,000+ Comments from Starlink Customers #1610 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The FCC says TikTok is a national security risk and it's time the app is banned from Apple and Android devices. This has come as a surprise as it's not a conservative majority asking for the removal. What will happen nobody knows. Also in today's show, the video format is evolving and if you have ideas I would love your input.

The post FCC Says Kill TikTok #1609 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Netflix has announced that Advertisements are coming and that there will be a new lower-priced plan offering that will allow viewers to get Netflix at a cheaper rate but be ad-supported. As they have lost over 200,000 subscribers last quarter this is likely an attempt to shore up the bottom line.

The post Advertisements Coming to Netflix #1608 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Absolute crypto chaos with crypto lending companies not letting account holders withdraw their crypto. Crypto it seems is now tied to the bigger financial market. Sadly what was supposed to be independent does not seem to be any longer with people freaking out the same way they do when the stock market drops.

The post Crypto Chaos with Crypto Lending! #1607 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Bill Gates says NFTs are for Fools and I think I completely agree with him. The more I learn about NFTs the more I think it's the most modern-day Ponzi scheme in existence. If you have money to literally burn then send it my way before you buy an NFT it will go to tangible use.

The post Bill Gates says NFTs are for Fools #1606 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Voyager 1 has data issues it does not seem to know where it is. The challenge is talking to the spacecraft which is 14.5 billion miles away and messaging is a 2-3 day turnaround. It's not the end but NASA has its work cut out to get Voyager back on track.

The post Voyager Mystery #1605 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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NASA says they are forming a task force to study UFOs and that they will release all of the findings. I honestly don't believe that they will. They say they do not believe UFOs are extraterrestrial but whatever they are, are a national security threat. We will see what the release as I doubt we will ever know the truth.

The post NASA to Study UFO’s! #1604 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Elon Musk has ordered his team at Tesla and Starlink back to the office for a minimum and he said a minimum of 40 hours a week. So the question I want to ask all of you, has your employer ordered you back to the office, or have they adopted a permanent remote work policy?

The post Elon Musk Orders Team Back to Office #1603 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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So what is sovereign data? It is the attempt by a growing list of countries that want to keep the data flow of their citizens within the boundaries of their own countries. While this will be expensive to implement I can understand why countries are doing it as the Internet has been the wild west for collecting individuals' privacy information and selling it.

The post What is Sovereign Data? #1602 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple has decided to stop the production of the iPod Touch. This is sad as the first iPod debuted in 2001. So the series of devices have had a pretty great run. I will be on the hunt to add one of the older models to the device graveyard in the studio.

The post Apple iPod Touch end of an Era #1601 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Episode 1600 is finally in the can with your host fighting a massive head cold. Super excited to take you down memory lane. Give out a prize and also give away some money for the next show. This has been a long haul to get here and now on to 1700. I do want to thank GoDaddy for their long-term sponsorship of the show and of course the ongoing support of the GNC Insiders.

The post Episode 1600! appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Finally, the table turns and Russia is on the defense as hackers go after targets in Russia. They seem to have great success. Considering hackers largely left Russia alone before they are now actively going after some pretty big targets. Russia is proving to be quite a week and sadly may feel itself being pushed back in a corner. Dangerous times.

The post Russia is getting Cyber Attacked #1599 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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In late reporting, the Twitter board has deemed Elon Musk's offer to buy Twitter as unwelcome signaling that things are about to get ugly and that Musk may have to go to war if he really wants twitter. The simple fact that the board is looking at rejecting his offer shows things are about to get ugly.

The post Elon Musk Twitter Acquisition Deemed Hostile #1598 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Is Elon Musk posing to do a hostile takeover of Twitter after he announced he will not join the board of directors and that he may take a bigger stake? Also, my order for Starlink has finally gotten approved and hopefully, I will have a Starlink dish and be out of broadband hell soon enough.

The post Hostile Takeover of Twitter? #1597 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Elon Musk one to put money where his mouth has purchased a 9.2% stake in Twitter after complaining several weeks ago that he did not feel they were living up to free speech standards and threatening to build his own platform. So I guess when you can't beat them join them and buy your way in.

The post Elon Musk buys 9.2% stake in Twitter #1596 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Researchers ran a test on a decommissioned TV Satellite with permission to see how easy it would be to take a channel over and broadcast to North America. Something in me would be pretty thrilled to be able to broadcast and distribute the way these folks did. While they did it with permission I am … Continue reading Hacking a Decommissioned TV Satellite #1595 →

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If you're in New Jersey you will need to go to the mall and try RoboBurger, seems like someone has come up with a machine to make you a fresh hot steaming burger. Not something that is microwaved and warmed up. I love it when people create cool stuff like this. I just want to know how it tastes.

The post RoboBurger Vending Machine Debuts #1594 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The Webb telescope alignments and performance is exceeding scientist expectations in early testing and as final alignments wrap up the space telescope will soon be able to start doing real science and the team is excited at what they may see. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow him … Continue reading Webb Telescope Health Update #1593 →

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4.1 Billion is the price tag to launch the SLS. It's a shockingly absurd amount. When you have private industry rapidly moving towards lift capabilities slightly less than SLS. I am not sure NASA is being a good steward of taxpayer dollars.

The post 4.1 Billion per SLS Launch #1592 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The world is 100% behind Ukraine minus the Russians and Chinese and from that business has been suspended in mass in Russia. The list grows longer by the day with Visa, Mastercard, Paypal, Amex all shutting off business. Isolating them financially and even Coinbase has been blocking individuals.

The post Business pull out of Russia in Mass #1591 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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The US Space Force has announced that they will start patrolling as far out as 220,000 miles from the earth using a new satellite that is being proposed to be built. I guess they will be looking for objects that should not be out there. Pretty hard to hide in this part of space but it is what it is.

The post Space Force to Patrol Space out to the Moon? #1590 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Ukraine is leading all major tech news as companies react and try to shutdown misinformation along with trying to support the government as Elon Musk did by turning on Internet Access and shipping in ground terminals for the government to get online. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat Email Todd or follow … Continue reading Ukraine is Leading all Tech News #1589 →

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Coinbase reported some major earning numbers today blowing out analyst estimates. If you look at all of these crypto apps they are simply cleaning up. I find it quite remarkable. But it’s always the middlemen that are getting rich over the risk others place on their money. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ … Continue reading Coinbase Reports Big Earning Numbers #1588 →

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Wordle which was recently purchased by the New York Times has not revised the game very much but according to reports has stuffed it with ad tracking software that tracks what you do when you leave the website. Nothing free is ever free. Aka you are the product and what you do online is very valuable.

The post Wordle now stuffed with ad tracking #1587 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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SpaceX wants to be able to do a Space Walk by sometime near the end of 2022 to coincide with the first manned starship mission. This to me seems very energetic being that SpaceX does not even have a qualified spacewalking spacesuit ready yet. Time will tell but it will be very exciting to watch. … Continue reading SpaceX to do Spacewalk by end of 2022? #1586 →

The post SpaceX to do Spacewalk by end of 2022? #1586 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Apple Airtags have been used in a number of inappropriate ways to track people. While they are incredibly useful in keeping track of gear some folks want to keep track of people with them. While most of the time illegal to do so and each airtag is able to be tracked back to the owner sometimes finding the airtag has been difficult. Apple wants to fix that and will be releasing software to make them easier to find.

The post Apple wants to make Airtags easier to find #1585 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Will Meta Pull Facebook and Instagram from the EU seems that's what Meta is threatening in an SEC filing. They do not want to observe EU data transfer rules by moving EU user data back to the United States. Don't let any of this fool you they are not going to leave the EU but they are pissed that the privacy rules are not letting them target as effectively.

The post Will Meta Pull Facebook and Instagram from the EU #1584 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Will you buy your next car online or at the dealer according to a new survey some 41% will buy their next new car online versus walking the car lot? Obviously, with car shortages, there are not a lot of vehicles to even look at on the lot thus forcing people to buy online only. … Continue reading Will you buy your next car online or at the dealer #1583 →

The post Will you buy your next car online or at the dealer #1583 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Do you have the first version of the Wyze Camera? Well if you do it may be time to replace it due to some unspecified security concerns. Wyze is canceling the camera on February 1st. I have two of the older models that I will replace. Better to be on the safe side and use them where I have no concerns about hacks.

The post WYZE Camera V1 at EOL #1582 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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FCC to block ISP exclusive deals that lock residents of apartments into a single ISP limiting their provider choice. I applaud them for making this move. While it's a profit center for most property owners the time has come to allow the consumer to have a choice in ISP's versus the one getting a kickback.

The post FCC to Block ISP Exclusive Deals #1581 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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By 2024 there may be a movie studio in space attached to the International Space Station. Then Tom Cruz will hitch a ride to ISS on a SpaceX Flight to film the movie. It’s getting real when they want to shoot a movie in space. Time will tell if they have the money to make … Continue reading Movie Studio In Space #1580 →

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Paypal for years has been known to seize accounts and not tell the account holders why their accounts have been seized, they will now potentially face a class-action lawsuit by several of those victims that have had their accounts seized of 10’s of 100’s of thousands of dollars. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat … Continue reading Paypal Faces Class Action Lawsuit for Money Seizures #1579 →

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Norton Crypto Miner has been put in Norton 360 what the heck were they thinking. I am reconsidering my use of their product line for this absolute insanity. I also cover what happened at CES.

The post Norton Crypto Miner #1578 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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It is being reported that Starlinks speeds are decreasing as they add more subscribers and with the never-ending race to get more satellites in the air the Starlink team will have to work hard to keep speeds up for those on the service and those wanting to sign up for the service. With an average download speed of about 87 megs, it is still better than Viasat or Hughesnet.

The post Starlink Speeds Slowing Down #1577 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Amazon stops ban on cell phones in the warehouses as it appears that they used texting as the main way to warn employees. I have worked jobs where you could not have a cell phone in vast aircraft hangers. So I understand the need to be able to communicate. There will continue to be a … Continue reading Amazon Stops Ban on Cell Phones #1576 →

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Amazon Actions are under serious scrutiny on whether they reacted properly in response to storm warnings and Tornado warnings that saw a massive loss of life across multiple states last Friday. Productivity over safety is what some relatives are saying over dead Amazon associates.

The post Amazon Actions being Questioned in Storm Response #1575 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Bill Gates seems to think anyone cares he has had a bad year. Like the rest of the world hasn’t little sympathy from me. Seems that money cannot buy happiness. It’s a little ironic that he had to get a vaccine reference as well in the accompanying article. When you are rich no one cares … Continue reading Bill Gates has had a rough year! #1574 →

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Elon Musk is controlling space a ESA boss is complaining that EU companies are not able to keep up with the fast-paced company. They need to slow him down and not let him have all of the low earth orbits to himself. I have never seen such a high cry baby. It's called competition get to competing and quit complaining.

The post Elon Musk Controlling Space #1573 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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There is a pretty bad article out on how Apple treats its retail hourly employees. We know retail can be brutal but it seems some employees are having a very rough go of it. One of our GNC family members is having a challenging time. I want to draw your attention to Sam Garcia’s resume. … Continue reading Apple Retail Employees are Struggling #1572 →

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Microsoft is once again fighting against companies they have edged out through bundling making it harder for them to compete. There is an ongoing issue with companies that cry they cannot innovate when faced with competition so they go cry to a government agency hoping to get relief.

The post Microsoft in Trouble with EU on Bundling #1571 appeared first on Geek News Central.

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Facebook papers to be released by Gizmodo and others upon review. Should be a great read to see the inner workings of Facebook. I am back from Hawaii with a hell of a scare on my back all the details on the show and of course, I hope each of you here in America has … Continue reading Facebook Papers to be Released #1570 →

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Russia has blown up a Satellite into thousands of pieces and is recklessly endangering the other orbital satellites and the team on the International Space Station had to go to their capsules for real and hide out because of the idiot moves by the Russian government. This is the ultimate act of stupidity by the … Continue reading Russia Blows Up a Satellite #1569 →

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Apple is implementing Legacy contacts as a way for you to designate someone to get access to your iCloud account when you die and have access to that content. I have been pondering many of the questions they seem to be preparing for as folks die and those survivors have no way of accessing pictures … Continue reading Apple Legacy Contacts #1568 →

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With the massive infrastructure bill passed will the 65 Billion earmarked for Broadband expansion actually work or will it just be a scam as it has been in the past to get internet service providers essentially a free handout. I am very skeptical that this money will truly help those of us in rural America … Continue reading 65 Billion Broadband Plan or Scam #1567 →

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Jeff Bezos and the Blue Origin team have been smacked down by a judge and their lawsuit going after SpaceX and NASA has been dismissed. Personally, I think if Blue Origin spent more time getting higher into space instead of playing around would go a long way into validating the company for real lift potential versus being used for low orbit joy rides for the rich.

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Facebook has an ongoing PR disaster on its hands with thousands of internal company research papers to show how bad the company has been misbehaving over the years on a wide variety of fronts. Yet it will have little consequence going forward. Note you may start hearing pre-roll ads in front of each program I … Continue reading Facebook Pages the Ultimate PR Disaster #1565 →

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If you have been waiting to upgrade to a MacBook Pro with Apple silicon the wait is over as Apple has announced a quite amazing lineup of new computers so impressive that folks placing advanced orders could barely get them ordered as their website was simple slammed. Note you may start hearing pre-roll ads in … Continue reading MacBook Pro M1 Pro & M1 Max #1562 →

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Macbook Pro M1X Chip Announcement

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October 9th, 2004 was when this show was launched, and while the 17th anniversary is a big thing. The bigger news is that I do not have Melanoma Cancer. I go into great detail about what I was told, what happens next, and of course some warnings to all of you. In addition some changes … Continue reading 17 Year Anniversary in Podcasting #1560 →

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Happy International Podcast Day everyone. Nothing like starting a show and the gear go weird on you. But otherwise, it has been a very productive week. The People’s Choice Podcast Awards is starting at 9 pm Eastern so if you miss it live you can watch the replay. Become an Insider today to support the … Continue reading Happy International Podcast Day #1558 →

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Google has put Apple on blast like a spoiled child because the EU did not fine them 5 billion dollars for doing the same exact thing as Google has been accused of. But in essence, Apple has not done the same thing as they own the operating system, phone supply, etc They do not need … Continue reading Google puts Apple on Blast like Spoiled Child #1557 →

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Apple has banned Fortnite from the App store until the conclusion of the legal battle which can take as much as 5 more years. Apple playing there hand in destroying a business that dared to questions its policies. I hope Epic is prepared and can ultimately survive these actions. Do not ever build your castle … Continue reading Apple Bans Fortnite #1556 →

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Democrats in the Senate have sent the FTC a request to make rules to protect consumer privacy seeing they have failed to get any type of legislation passed in recent history. I am of the opinion that anything the FTC or FCC does will result in an epic court battle that they will likely lose. … Continue reading Senate calls on FTC to Protect Consumer Privacy #1555 →

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Since President Biden has issued more vaccine mandates there has been a surge in fake covid vaccine cards being sold on the internet for as much as $100 each. With no digital tracking in many states this is going to be a ongoing growing concern as these cards make it into the general population. Become … Continue reading Fake Covid Vaccine Cards Exploding on Marketplaces #1554 →

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Facebook VIP is a list of 5.8 million people that do not have to follow community standard guidelines and can almost get away with anything up to a point. It shows there are the have’s and the have not’s. Not surprising at all considering that all Facebook was worried about was PR. Seems they have … Continue reading Facebook VIP List with no Posting Restrictions #1553 →

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Microsoft has delayed opening its office due to Delta and I am sure this is happening in a lot of places. No video today as your host messed up. But it’s good to be back and I have a little unorthodox show so hope you like it. Become an Insider today to get access to … Continue reading Microsoft Delays Office Open #1552 →

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Kirk here for Todd while he is away on travel for this Thursday’s episode. Apple made the announcement that if you live in the US, you can have your state ID or driver license stored on your iPhone, while for some people it’s great to have it on your iPhone however Apple has been criticized … Continue reading Your driver license on an iPhone #1551 →

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Hi everyone, Kirk here filling in for Todd while he is away on business travel, he will be back a week from this Thursday, September 9th. It’s great to be back in the guest host chair for this week!. In this episode, China cuts children’s online gaming to only an hour! Can you imagine other … Continue reading China is being tough on children #1550 →

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Did Russians see an Alien spacecraft entering the atmosphere or was it something less sinister burning up. No one knows but the images are pretty interesting. Ok folk Kirk takes over for two episodes while I am on business travel. Enjoy the shows while I am out. Become an Insider today to get access to … Continue reading Was it an Alien? #1549 →

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Covid 19 Vaccine data has been leaked on 38 million individuals along with a whole host of PII. Nothing is sacred and you can blame Microsoft and those that use the services that were open for anyone to just review on the web. I update you on what’s happening with me and give you the … Continue reading Covid 19 Vaccine Data Leaked #1548 →

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Amazon has decided that they want in the shopping center business after them and Walmart knocked out almost every small retail business in America. What say you? Become an Insider today to get access to this very private, very personal show that will give you complete behind-the-scenes access to yours truly. Subscribe to the Newsletter. … Continue reading Amazon Building Shopping Centers? #1547 →

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I am in the middle of the longest power outage I have experienced in many years. Going on six days without power while we have a generator it’s been interesting how you have to manage power resources. Yet the show goes on tonight at the studio where I do have power grid electricity. Become an … Continue reading Power’s Out! #1546 →

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Apple has decided to go backward in end-to-end encryption by deploying image and message scanning in an attempt to detect naughty pictures sent by minors and to catch predators and those that exploit children. Even the EFF has come out against what they are calling a backdoor to security. I am curious what your thoughts … Continue reading Apple Betrays Trust of it’s Users! #1545 →

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16 sites to learn code and give yourself another opportunity to learn a new skill that may come in handy at your day job and or start a new career. You do not have to have a college degree anymore to be a world-class coder it helps but you can get started with only a … Continue reading Time to learn Code #1544 →

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It appears that Amazon may have access to millions of homes, apartment buildings, and businesses by giving property owners as little as $100 in gift cards and free gear to allow Amazon drivers direct access to the common areas of your apartment and businesses. Of course, millions have also been given access through smart devices … Continue reading Does Amazon have access to your Home or Business? #1543 →

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Geek News Central Podcast (Video): Recent Episodes

Todd Cochrane