Join John on this week’s episode of Open Source News Elements as he unpacks California’s virtual power plant milestone, the latest game-changing updates to Vulkan and HandBrake, shifts in AI development methods, challenges in open-source sustainability, and the cultural and legal currents impacting technology around the globe. Whether it’s solar batteries keeping the lights on or open-source maintainers steering the ship, you’ll find out what’s new, what’s changing, and why it matters for users and developers alike.

Join John as he unpacks the startling transformation unfolding in America’s airline sector, where passenger transport is no longer king. Discover how loyalty programs and credit card partnerships are now holding the industry aloft, creating massive profits—and new risks—whilst redefining what it means to fly. From eye-watering financial statistics to the latest technological upgrades enhancing customer experience, this episode breaks down the seismic changes in the world of aviation loyalty. Get the inside story on how airlines are balancing business innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability in a market that’s fast becoming all about points.

John dives into the latest Linux benchmarks of the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, comparing it to the Ryzen 9 9950X and 9950X3D, spotlighting performance, efficiency, and integrated graphics. He explores highlights from the Open Source Summit India, discusses GPU driver innovations, and examines how generative AI workloads and WebAssembly are shaping new opportunities for consumers and businesses. Essential listening for those keen on staying ahead in tech and open source.

Join John on this episode of Open Source News Elements as he delivers a deep dive into the latest developments shaking up the world of open source and technology. Broadcasting from the buzzing corridors of the Open Source Summit Europe in Amsterdam, John explores the sweeping new updates to CNCF’s 2025 Supply Chain Security Guide, the pivotal role of Software Bills of Materials and attestations, and the exciting cross-collaborations with OpenSSF and cutting-edge supply chain tooling. Discover how global events—from a historic $100B US manufacturing pledge by Apple and Trump, to Nvidia’s stand on AI chip backdoors—are reframing security, national policy, and innovation. Catch up on every headline that matters: from Docker’s evolution of Hardened Images and AlmaLinux’s breakthrough NVIDIA support, to urgent Btrfs file system repairs, heightened semiconductor compliance, Zepto’s award-winning cloud-native platform, and growing calls for journal editorial integrity. Stay tuned as John unpacks how trends in software, hardware, and policy converge to safeguard the future of technology.

John takes you through a compelling look at the Electronic Frontier Foundation's 35-year mission to preserve digital rights in an age of surveillance, data exploitation, and manipulative tech. Discover EFF's legal advocacy, community outreach, and impact at leading security conferences like DEF CON, along with pressing issues in privacy, data brokering, and emerging tech such as AI and software transparency. Dive into how you can support a future where technology empowers, not confines.

Dive into the world of DIY robotics as John recounts Daniel Ramirez’s journey turning a humble R2-D2 shell into a fully interactive robot using Raspberry Pi and VEX. Discover how cutting-edge projects like Newelle are reshaping AI interaction for Linux users. Explore the maker movement’s ingenuity, from budget builds to future aspirations in AI and education—all in true Aussie style.

John unpacks the massive launch of Nintendo’s Switch 2—record-breaking sales, the scramble to meet demand, and the strategic moves ahead. He also explores how tech is changing the world, from advanced gaming to ground-breaking satellites monitoring our planet. Tune in for an insightful look at gaming industry dynamics and the exciting intersection of tech and innovation.

Join John as he breaks down the four top ways to convert Apple Music tracks to MP3 in 2025, from friendly tools like OneConv to clever DIY with Audacity. He also cuts through the noise on cybersecurity risks and the importance of protecting your data when using online music services. Whether you're a music buff or just looking to own your playlists, get practical tips and stay savvy in today's digital music landscape.

John dives into the latest buzz from the open source and tech world, spanning critical OS security patches, kernel performance upgrades, espionage risks, AI privacy pitfalls, and groundbreaking legislation. Hear about threats lurking in financial cybercrime, major shifts for cloud providers, and how game-changing updates in hardware and health tech are setting the agenda for innovation and regulation alike. From kernel patches to legal shake-ups for Google and Nvidia, this episode unpacks the headlines and implications you need to know.

John dives into the latest headlines shaping innovation in Australia and beyond: the Linux kernel's landmark updates, fresh security patches across major distros, and how debates over the quantum world are steering scientific thinking. He explores how developers are grappling with AI tools, uncovers marvels in peacock feather optics, and unpacks new drivers powering Apple and ASUS devices on Linux. Plus, John considers the ethical stand-off as AI challenges the creative industry and the seismic ripple caused by JPMorgan's fintech shake-up. Expect practical insights, ethical questions, and a pulse on what’s next in open source tech.