The battle for TikTok's future heats up as Trump grants a second 75-day extension while major players like Microsoft, Blackstone, and Amazon circle the bidding arena. With 170 million US users hanging in the balance, we unpack the complex negotiations complicated by recent tariffs and international approvals.

Nintendo Switch 2's announcement brings sticker shock with its $449.99 price tag—matching PlayStation and Xbox pricing—while revealing a troubling trend in the gaming economy. We dive deep into what this means for consumers and examine how the $80 game price point and mandatory $20 upgrade fees to play older games signals a fundamental shift from ownership to rental in our digital lives.

The cryptocurrency world faces its most significant heist ever as North Korean hackers steal $1.5 billion from exchange ByBit. Our analysis reveals how this brazen theft was executed, why affected investors won't see their funds replaced, and what this means for cryptocurrency security moving forward.

Our Gadgets and Gear segment introduces the innovative Ring Mouse, a wearable Bluetooth device that transforms how we interact with computers. Beyond its practical applications for presentations, we explore its surprising potential for office pranks and subtle device control.

We celebrate Microsoft's 50th anniversary with a fast-paced quiz on the tech giant's defining moments and conclude with our signature whiskey tasting featuring Joseph A Magnus Murray Hill Club Special Release. Whether you're concerned about digital ownership rights, fascinated by emerging tech, or simply curious about the economics reshaping our digital landscape, this episode delivers insights that will make you go "hmmm."

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A groundbreaking AI application helped pull a hospice-bound patient back from the brink by identifying an unexpected treatment for a rare disease. By analyzing thousands of existing medications for potential side effects that could treat idiopathic multicentric Castleman's disease, researchers discovered a path to remission that human analysis might have missed. This remarkable story highlights AI's potential as a powerful medical tool when used to augment human expertise rather than replace it.

Meanwhile, privacy concerns take center stage as 23andMe secures court approval to auction off customer DNA data despite growing protests. State attorneys general are warning consumers to delete their genetic information before the sale completes, raising fundamental questions about data ownership and personal privacy in our digital economy. Could this case establish a dangerous precedent for how companies handle our most sensitive biological information?

The episode takes a fascinating detour with guest Elizabeth Bieniek, who shares insights from her journey developing WebEx Hologram at Cisco. Her book "Cake on Tuesday" offers 25 lessons for driving innovation within large corporations, distilling years of experience into practical advice for anyone looking to champion new ideas in established organizations. Biennik's approach to creating holographic collaboration technology demonstrates how visionary thinking can thrive even within corporate structures.

We also explore Signal, the encrypted messaging app making headlines for its use by government officials. With features like automatic message deletion and capacity for 1,000-person group chats, this technology raises important questions about security protocols and information preservation within official channels.

From life-saving AI applications to privacy threats, holographic meetings to secure messaging, this episode examines how technology continues to transform our world in both promising and concerning ways. Has a medical breakthrough changed your perspective on AI's potential benefits? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

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When technology goes wrong, the consequences can be devastating. This episode dives into the disturbing case of a Norwegian man who discovered ChatGPT had fabricated horrific false claims about him—specifically that he had murdered his two sons and served a 21-year prison sentence. His legal complaint against OpenAI raises profound questions about AI accountability and highlights the dangers of what happens when machines spread misinformation that can destroy lives.

The psychological dimension of technology takes center stage as we explore a bizarre study suggesting ChatGPT experiences "anxiety" when processing traumatic narratives. We challenge the troubling trend of anthropomorphizing AI systems and discuss how attributing human emotions to algorithms might lead us down dangerous paths, particularly as more people turn to AI for therapy-like interactions.

Our "Letters Segment" delivers critical warnings about current scams targeting everyday users—from sophisticated fake toll payment notices to PayPal exploitations that bypass spam filters. We break down why these scams work by triggering fear responses that override rational thinking, providing practical advice to protect yourself and loved ones from increasingly convincing digital deceptions.

On a lighter note, we sample Virginia Distilling Company's port cask-finished whiskey and discuss Verizon's new satellite messaging service that allows text communication in remote areas without cellular coverage. The technology landscape continues evolving at breathtaking speed, bringing both innovation and new challenges that demand our vigilance.

Subscribe to Tech Time Radio for weekly insights that keep you ahead of the mainstream media, delivered with expertise and a splash of whiskey on the side. Have a technology question? Visit techtimeradio.com to connect with us and join our community of tech-savvy listeners.

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Ever wondered what happens when technology designed to serve us starts serving other masters? This week's episode dives deep into the troubling intersection of technological advancement and corporate interests that often leave users vulnerable.

Uber's rollout of Waymo autonomous vehicles in Austin marks an exciting milestone in driverless technology, but our analysis reveals persistent safety concerns these companies would rather you didn't focus on. With Waymo expanding beyond its controlled testing environments into everyday transportation, we explore what this means for passenger safety and the future of mobility.

When Roblox CEO Dave Baszucki told concerned parents they simply shouldn't let their kids use his platform if they're worried about safety, we were stunned. With 80 million daily users (40% under age 13), this hands-off approach to platform safety reveals how even spaces designed primarily for children can prioritize growth over protection. Our cybersecurity expert, Nick Espinosa, joins us to unpack this shocking stance and what it means for digital parenting.

The most chilling revelation comes from former Facebook employee Sarah Wynn Williams, who claims Mark Zuckerberg was willing to implement extreme censorship systems for the Chinese government and even deactivate a Chinese dissident's account at their request – all to gain access to the Chinese market. This disturbing case study shows how far tech giants may go when profit motives clash with democratic values.

From North Korean spyware infiltrating the Google Play Store to AI search engines that are wrong a staggering 60% of the time, we're tracking the technologies that threaten your security and access to accurate information. We close with a look at Microsoft's upcoming handheld gaming device codenamed "Keenan" that aims to challenge Nintendo's dominance in portable gaming.

Subscribe to our podcast, join us on BlueSky@TechTimeRadio, or visit techtimeradio.com to stay informed about the technology stories that impact your digital life.

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The battle for AI dominance takes a dramatic turn as the Department of Justice abandons its push for Google to divest from artificial intelligence firms like Anthropic. While still pursuing Chrome browser divestiture, this strategic shift acknowledges the complex balance between antitrust enforcement and maintaining America's competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Customer manipulation tactics come under fire with HP's now-abandoned policy of forcing callers to wait 15 minutes before speaking with support staff. This deliberate friction point—designed to push users toward digital support channels—exemplifies how companies use pain-pleasure dynamics to shape consumer behavior, similar to streaming services increasing ad frequency to drive premium subscriptions.

Breaking language barriers might soon become as simple as sharing an earbud. The innovative Monoise PG2 translation earbuds offer real-time translation of over 100 languages directly into users' ears, potentially transforming international travel and diverse workplaces despite practical concerns about sharing earpieces with strangers.

The scientific frontier brings both wonder and warning. Colossal Lab's woolly mammoth revival project advances with scientists creating "woolly mice" to test mammoth gene sequences. Meanwhile, the integrity of research faces threats from fraudulent studies contaminating even reputable journals—a problem magnified as AI systems train on potentially flawed research, creating a dangerous feedback loop of misinformation.

Medical technology leaps forward with Forest Neurotech's non-invasive brain implant that uses targeted ultrasound to treat anxiety and depression without penetrating brain tissue. This breakthrough represents a significant advancement over competitors like Neuralink, potentially offering less invasive options for neurological treatment.

Join us as we navigate these fascinating intersections of technology, ethics, and innovation while enjoying our whiskey pick of the week, Smokey Hill Barrel Proof bourbon—powerful but perhaps not worth its premium price tag.

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Prepare for a whirlwind journey through the latest in technology on this week’s episode, where we uncover surprising secrets, confront pressing issues, and have a little fun along the way. Join us as we dive into the remarkable discovery of a secret military base hidden beneath the North Pole, revealed by NASA’s high-tech radar. As we discuss the history of military operations and the implications of such findings, we invite listeners to reflect on how much remains unknown about our past.

Further complicating our digital lives, we address Meta's recent apology following a significant glitch that exposed violent content to thousands of Instagram users. This incident prompts critical questions regarding the role of corporations in ensuring the safety and integrity of online spaces and the challenges they must navigate to maintain user trust.

The episode takes a sharp turn as we confront the looming end of Skype, with Microsoft announcing its closure. As communications shift to Teams, our hosts guide listeners through the best alternatives available, ensuring they are well-equipped to embrace the changes. From Google Meet to Zoom and beyond, we explore accessible options for every user.

Highlighting the lighter side of technology, we discuss whiskey selection during our tasting segment, with Knob Creek taking center stage. With a robust profile to savor, our insights mingle with tech conversation, creating a warm atmosphere that resonates with our audience. 

To wrap up, we delve into nostalgic territory, sharing our top recommendations for sci-fi TV shows worth a revisit. This blend of tech news, a touch of humor, and personal stories keeps our audience engaged. 

Tune in for an enriching hour of thoughtful discussion, captivating insights, and community interaction. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts with us! Join the Tech Time Radio community today and stay updated on the ever-evolving world of technology!

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Dive into a world where technology meets intrigue, humor, and a little bit of whiskey! In this lively episode of our tech-centric podcast, we explore Meta's eyebrow-raising move to prioritize hefty bonuses for executives while cutting back on employee stock rewards, stirring up controversy around corporate ethics in the tech industry. We also shed light on Jeep owners’ grievances as pop-up ads intrude upon their driving experience, showing how deeply technology has embedded itself into our daily lives. 

Jeff Bezos’ recent involvement in reshaping the James Bond franchise sparks a passionate conversation about action-hero casting, giving fans a chance to voice their opinions. On a more bizarre note, we unravel the desperation of one man determined to recover an $800 million Bitcoin fortune lost in a landfill, showcasing the lengths individuals will go to when technology and fortune intertwine. 

Additionally, we tackle common email scams in our “Letters” segment, providing vital insights for listeners to protect themselves against digital deceit. Each story is infused with a whiskey review that keeps the conversation lively. So whether you're a tech-savvy enthusiast or someone simply trying to navigate today’s tech landscape, this episode has something for everyone. Join us, and don't miss out—subscribe now for more!

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Could the shift back to the office spark a unionization movement at a tech giant like Amazon? Tune in to TechTime Radio as we dive into this pressing topic and more. We discuss the logistical mess stemming from Amazon's return-to-office policy, leaving employees grappling with issues like desk-sharing and insufficient parking. These workplace hurdles are igniting serious discussions about remote work and the possibility of unionizing. 

Nick Espinosa from Security Fanatics returns to shed light on the collaboration between state-sponsored hackers and cybercriminals, alongside the far-reaching implications of a landmark copyright lawsuit involving AI. 

As technology continues to influence our everyday lives, we're also observing changes in the world of online dating. Rather than merely swiping left or right, individuals are now forming connections through shared interests, creating deeper bonds that transcend the surface-level interactions of traditional apps like Bumble and Tinder.

SUPERCOMPUTER: The IRS's curious dealings with NVIDIA and a warning story regarding a pirated game that threatens personal data.

Additionally, enjoy our lighter segments, including Mike's captivating moment, the week's tech fail, and our beloved whiskey tasting. This episode is brimming with insights, surprises, and a healthy dose of entertainment, all in the spirit of technology.

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Unlock the secrets behind the transformative power of artificial intelligence, the buzz around DeepSeek, and the impact of AI-generated books on human creativity. As we relay insights from the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris, discover how global leaders and tech experts are shaping the future of AI. We also touch on the intriguing and somewhat humorous endeavor of AI trying its hand at writing, and the serious implications it holds for the creative industry. Meanwhile, pressing cybersecurity concerns underscore a pivotal moment for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, with staffers urged to hold off on resignations amid federal downsizing.

Get ready to have your curiosity piqued as we explore the fascinating world of smart glasses. Gwen Way returns with two must-see gadgets that add another layer of excitement for our tech-savvy audience. We also delve into personal experiences with Chinese online marketplaces like Temu, reflecting on the challenges of product fulfillment and what it means for global commerce.

Is the Amazon Alexa subscription service worth the buzz or just another case of subscription fatigue? As we look forward to Amazon's upcoming event, we explore the potential of Alexa's new capabilities and the reaction to a possible $10 monthly fee. 

From our entertaining whiskey-tasting session to the nostalgic origins of the term "podcast," we promise a memorable journey through technology's latest trends and debates. Tune in for a blend of insightful analysis, engaging segments like Mike's Mesmerizing Moment and Nathan's Nugget, and of course, our top-of-the-month whiskey tasting, all designed to keep you connected and informed.

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Can a Chinese startup really challenge the AI giants with minimal hardware? Join me, Nathan Mumm, in a special unplugged episode of Tech Time Radio as we explore the fascinating claims of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI newcomer stirring up debates about China's potential in the global AI arena. With major players like Microsoft, Google, and the White House's AI czar, David Sachs, paying close attention, we delve into the ethical implications of DeepSeek's tactics and the broader impacts on the AI market. Plus, we'll take a nostalgic stroll through Facebook's early days, reflecting on its meteoric rise to social media dominance—all while savoring our trademark mix of tech talk and whiskey.

How about a self-driving car service in Texas by 2025? We turn our attention to Tesla's ambitious plans to launch autonomous vehicles in Austin, despite the challenges posed by recent incidents in the field. We'll discuss the potential shift from traditional rideshare models to AI-driven transportation, and tackle the unexpected diplomatic tensions sparked by a controversial move by former U.S. President Donald Trump to rename the Gulf of Mexico. From the future of transportation to geopolitical wrangles, this episode covers a wide array of intriguing topics that demand your attention.

Ever wondered about the potential of wearable biosensors? Caltech engineers might have the answer, with groundbreaking advancements promising continuous, non-invasive health monitoring. As we highlight these technological wonders, we'll also reflect on the growth of Tech Time Radio, celebrating our journey from the pandemic's early days to our recent studio move. We share our passion for technology and whiskey, introduce key team members like our whiskey guru Mark Gregoire and gadgets expert Gwen Way, and reveal exciting future plans, including a potential road trip to CES 2026. Join us for a blend of humor, expertise, and captivating stories that keeps our loyal audience coming back for more.

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