In this Greatest Hits episode, we revisit an outstanding show from earlier this year. Join us on TechMagic, where Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler look back at the tech events of 2024 and recap the latest tech developments. They discuss the buzz surrounding CES, Apple Vision Pro's release, and spatial computing's evolving landscape. They also dive into the intersection of AI and journalism, explore the future of gaming, and delve into a groundbreaking innovation—the eTongue, which mimics human taste. Packed with insights, predictions, and lively conversation, this episode offers a refresher at one of the best episodes in 2024.

Come for the Tech, and stay for the Magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platform strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

[00:00] Intro  

[00:04:10] Apple Vision Pro Announcement  

[00:12:01] The Future of Spatial Computing  

[00:19:13] OpenAI vs. New York Times Lawsuit  

[00:30:16] The Rise of AI in Daily Life  

[00:46:16] Walmart and Unity Partnership  

[01:04:23] The eTongue: A Taste of the Future

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In this second part of the 2024 retrospective episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler reflect on AI's profound impact across industries in 2024. They discuss YouTube’s groundbreaking decision to allow users to request the removal of AI-generated impersonations, highlighting its promise and challenges in content moderation. The hosts revisit key moments from the Roblox Developers Conference, where AI was leveraged to innovate virtual commerce and redefine brand engagement for younger audiences. They also examine Intuit’s controversial layoffs amid AI-focused hiring, raising questions about the future workforce. Through these discussions, they explore how AI shaped creativity, commerce, and careers in a transformative year.

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platform strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 00:00 - AI Content Removal on YouTube
• 01:18 - Concerns Over Enforcement Mechanisms
• 02:01 - The Nature of Creativity and AI
• 04:05 - Highlights from the Roblox Developers Conference
• 05:42 - Intuit's Layoffs and AI Initiatives
• 06:12 - The Future of Work in a Tech-Driven World

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In this first part of a two-part episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler reflect on the key developments in the gaming industry in 2024. They explore Mike Verdu's appointment as Netflix’s VP of Generative AI for Games, his creator-first vision, and the rise of AI-driven tools to accelerate game development. The duo discusses Atari's nostalgic comeback, highlighted by founder Nolan Bushnell's insights on affordable VR tech like the Oculus Quest 3. They also tackle the staff exodus at Annapurna Interactive and its potential impact. The episode concludes with gaming-meets-music innovations, including Fortnite's Lofi Girl map, signaling a transformative era for gaming and media convergence.

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platform strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 00:00 - Introduction to Generative AI in Gaming
• 01:39 - The Nostalgic Return of Atari
• 03:13 - Impact of the Oculus Quest 3
• 03:45 - Turmoil at Annapurna Interactive
• 07:09 - The Convergence of Movies and Video Games
• 09:21 - Evolving Media Properties
• 10:16 - The Lofi Girl Map in Fortnite

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While Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler take a short holiday break, TechMagic brings you an interview with Katie McIntyre, Founder and Design Lead of Matriarch. Katie was a TechMagic guest cohost earlier in the season, and Time Magazine has ranked her as one of the leading female VFX artists and has featured her creations.

Katie discusses her groundbreaking work in feminine futurism and shares her unique approach to integrating feminist art principles into design and technology. She also reflects on her experiences at Apple and Google and the challenges of being a woman in tech. She also unveils her new brand, Matriarch, aimed at empowering women in the tech and design industries. Tune in to hear about Katie's efforts to reshape the intersection of fashion, technology, and culture while inspiring the next generation of creatives.  

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platform strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Katie McIntyre Bio

Katie McIntyre is a Creative Director, Fashion & Industrial Designer, Film Director, VFX Artist, Ivy League Lecturer, and Women’s Rights Advocate. As the founder of Katie McIntyre Studio, she collaborates with renowned artists like Nicki Minaj, Lizzo, The Weeknd, and Cardi B, designing iconic album covers, couture, and VFX for live shows. Her innovative philosophy of feminine futurism, which blends feminist principles with design and technology, has earned her international recognition and keynote speaking opportunities at prestigious institutions, including Harvard, Duke, and Carnegie Mellon. 

Katie has partnered with top brands like Mugler, Puma, and Nike, and her designs have been worn by stars such as Lizzo and Shenseea. As CEO of her brand, Matriarch, she advocates for empowerment through groundbreaking design and technology products. Her automotive design, Dakini, showcased by Mugler and Vogue Singapore, has made waves in the automotive industry. Named one of Time's "World’s Leading Female VFX Artists," McIntyre continues to inspire and innovate.

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In the latest episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into their predictions for the tech landscape in 2025, exploring topics like AI, gaming, and the evolving role of technology in daily life. Cathy shares her optimism for the launch of World Labs and a shift in dating tech, while Lee highlights the indie gaming resurgence. They also reflect on concerns like China's influence in tech and the need for educational reform. The episode wraps up with personal goals for 2025, including health tech advancements and Lee's projects in writing and music distribution.

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech and gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platform strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 00:00 - Introduction and Context
• 04:14 - Lee’s Tech Prediction for 2025
• 06:23 - Cathy’s Prediction: AI Will Continue to be Talk of the Town
• 08:07 - Will Epic acquire Niantic?
• 10:35 - Will Intel Sell Part of its Business to a Competitor?
• 13:02 - Bringing Chip Manufacturing Back to America
• 19:40 - Prediction of Tough Times Ahead for Apple
• 23:20 - Impact of Geo Politics on Tech
• 29:32 - Excitement over CES

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In this episode of Tech Magic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the aftermath of a global Microsoft outage, share personal anecdotes, and present predictions for 2025 across three categories: obvious, unexpected, and controversial. Topics include the Nintendo Switch 2, generative AI, IPO trends, Intel’s potential business moves, challenges for Apple, and the evolving “new space race.” Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming.

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 00:00 - Introduction and Context
• 06:45 - Prediction Framework
• 08:30 - Obvious Prediction: Nintendo Switch 2
• 11:00 - Generative AI Trends
• 14:20 - Unexpected Predictions: Niantic and Epic Games
• 17:45 - Intel's Business Direction
• 21:00 - Controversial Predictions: Apple Challenges
• 24:30 - Geopolitical Tensions in Space
• 29:00 - Closing Thoughts

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In this episode of Tech Magic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore the latest in technology, innovation, and media trends. They dive into the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and Cathy’s involvement with AI at CES and discuss shifts in media consumption, including the evolution of streaming services. The duo also covers Meta’s role in sports broadcasting, smart glasses, and gaming news like Purina's virtual pet game on Roblox. The episode also discusses new music tech innovations and reflects past trends. Filled with insights and personal stories, this episode offers a dynamic look at the intersection of tech and creativity.

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 00:00 - Introduction and CES Excitement
• 02:11 - Media Consumption Trends
• 03:32 - Amazon's Freevee Discontinuation
• 08:28 - Excitement for 'Fallout' Series
• 12:34 - Meta and Sports Broadcasting
• 17:02 - Virtual Pets
• 21:08 - Smart Glasses and AR Technology
• 29:16 - Virtual Pet Games
• 34:01 - Music Technology Innovations

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler explore the latest in tech, from Nintendo’s expansion into physical experiences with Super Nintendo World, to the evolution of the metaverse and AI’s rapid growth. They discuss exciting developments such as AI company Perplexity's soaring valuation, OpenAI’s new hire to lead robotics, and Apple's smart glasses project. The hosts also reflect on wearable tech and its intersection with fashion and a thought-provoking conversation on AI and brain chip technology. A dynamic episode on the convergence of gaming, AI, wearables, and immersive experiences!

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 0:00 - Introduction and Nintendo News
• 5:36 - The Evolving Metaverse
• 12:11 - AI and Startup Valuations
• 18:23 - OpenAI's Robotics Initiative
• 24:23 - Wearables and Smart Glasses 
• 30:09 - The Intersection of Technology and Fashion
• 36:15 - The Brain Microchip Decision Debate
• 42:45 - Implications of Technology on Autonomy

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In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the exciting world of gaming, AI, and consumer tech. They discuss the innovative "Virtual Vote" initiative in Roblox to boost Gen Z voter participation, Nintendo's surprise music app launch, and Netflix's strategic move with Mike Verdu in generative AI for games. The episode also explores the complexities of AI in Hollywood, including the respectful revival of Christopher Lee in "Lord of the Rings" and Robert Downey Jr.'s commitment to his likeness. Cathy and Lee also analyze the gaming industry's trends and consumer interest in XR hardware while highlighting Oprah's endorsement of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses. With insights on wearables and AR technologies, this episode offers a rich look into the future of tech—don't miss it!

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Cathy Hackl Bio

Cathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. 

Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. 

Cathy Hackl on LinkedIn

Spatial Dynamics on LinkedIn

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics

• 0:00 - Introduction and Current Events
• 5:31 - Virtual Vote Initiative at Roblox
• 12:23 - Nintendo's Music App Launch
• 18:01 - Netflix’s VP of Generative AI
• 24:33 - AI in Hollywood Discussions
• 30:13 - Disney's Office of Technology Enablement
• 36:01 - Gaming Industry Predictions
• 42:44 - Consumer Interest in XR Hardware 
• 48:55 - Meta's "Brave Eye" Sunglasses

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In this episode of TechMagic, host Lee Kebler and guest co-host Katie McIntyre discuss AI and VR's evolving roles in technology, fashion, and marketing. Katie, a Toronto-based designer and founder of Matriarch, shares insights on "feminine futurism" and the challenges of AI influencers, highlighting potential ethical risks, particularly around body image. They critique Apple’s Vision Pro, comparing it with Meta’s VR approach, and question whether Apple understands user needs. The conversation explores the balance between AI and human connection, emphasizing that while AI offers intriguing tools, it cannot replace authentic relationships, urging more ethical development in tech innovation.

Come for the tech, and stay for the magic!

Lee Kebler Bio

Lee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.

Lee Kebler on LinkedIn

Katie McIntyre Bio

Katie McIntyre is a visionary Creative Director, Fashion and Industrial Designer, Film Director, VFX Artist, Ivy League Lecturer, and Women’s Rights Advocate. Founder of Katie McIntyre Studio, she collaborates with artists like Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Lizzo, crafting iconic album and product designs, films, and VFX for live shows. Her “feminine futurism” philosophy drives collaborations with brands such as Mugler, Puma, and Amazon, and her work has graced stages like Coachella. Named a “World’s Leading Female VFX Artist” by Time and a “Leader of Tomorrow” by the St. Gallen Symposium, she is also CEO of Matriarch, dedicated to empowering women through innovative design.

Katie McIntyre on LinkedIn

Katie McIntyre Studio Website

Key Discussion Topics

• 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
• 2:38 - Puma's AI Influencer Announcement
• 10:01 - Authenticity in Marketing
• 16:31 - Ethical Considerations of AI Representation
• 22:21 - Apple's Product Announcements and M4 Chip
• 28:01 - Critique of Apple Vision Pro and VR Strategy
• 32:11 - Market Demographics and User Behavior
• 36:13 - Applications of VR in Industry
• 48:01 - AI as a Substitute for Human Friendship

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