Geek News Central Podcast (Video)

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Full Summary:

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Full Summary:

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.

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Show Links and Full Summary:

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Show Links and Full Summary:

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Show Links and Full Summary

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Show Links and Full Summary

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

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

Show Links and Full Summary

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:

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

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.

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

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.

Subscribe to the Newsletter.

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:

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.

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