Explore every episode of the podcast Geek News Central Podcast

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 … Continue reading The Dark Side of Social Media Surveillance: An FTC Report #1767 →

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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. … Continue reading OpenAI’s New Model and Its Advanced Memory/Reasoning Capabilities #1766 →

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Apple reported its fiscal 2024 third-quarter results with a revenue of $85.8 billion, marking a 5% increase year-over-year, and earnings per share of $1.40, up 11%. CEO Tim Cook highlighted the launch of Apple Intelligence, a new AI system integrated into iPhone, iPad, and Mac. CFO Luca Maestri noted strong business performance, generating $29 billion … Continue reading Apple’s AI Leap and Quarterly Earnings Q2 2024 #1757 →

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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 … Continue reading Microsoft Bing’s Major AI Shift: What It Means for Search Traffic #1756 →

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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 … Continue reading CrowdStrike Outage continues to cause havoc! #1755 →

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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 … Continue reading Unlocking Vehicle Features: A New Revenue Stream or Consumer Exploitation? #1754 →

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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 … Continue reading AT&T Data Breach and $370K Bitcoin Ransom Unveiled #1753 →

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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 … Continue reading The Dark Side of AI: Trust and Information in the Digital Age #1752 →

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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 … Continue reading AI Music Rights Battle & YouTube #1751 →

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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, … Continue reading Apple’s App Store Pricing Antics Could Cost Billions #1750 →

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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. … Continue reading Elon Musk Confirms Starlink Mini Dish: Affordable, Portable, and Powerful #1749 →

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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 … Continue reading US Congress Pushes for DJI Drone Ban Amid CCP Spying Concerns #1748 →

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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 … Continue reading iPhone 16 and AirPods 4 Unveiled at Apple Event #1765 →

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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 … Continue reading GDPR vs Google: Privacy Sandbox Under Fire #1747 →

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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 Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat … Continue reading Apple Unveils macOS 15 Sequoia with AI Features #1746 →

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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 … Continue reading SpaceX Starship Achieves Major Milestone! #1745 →

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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 … Continue reading Forced to Vacate Studio #1744 →

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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 … Continue reading Exploring Google I/O 2024: The Future of Search, AI, and Android #1743 →

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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 … Continue reading Exploring OpenAI’s GPT-4o: A Leap in AI Technology #1742 →

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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 … Continue reading High-Speed Space Data Transmission #1741 →

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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 … Continue reading ByteDance Prefers Shutdown to Selling TikTok #1740 →

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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 … Continue reading Discord CEO Jason Citron on Shaping a More Intimate Internet #1739 →

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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. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat … Continue reading Meta Unveils Llama 3 AI: Let the AI Race Begin #1738 →

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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. … Continue reading Verizon’s $20 Billion Gamble on Frontier #1764 →

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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 … Continue reading FISA Section 702 Renewal Continues Warrantless Surveillance #1737 →

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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 … Continue reading Microsoft’s AI Revolution: Integrating AI into Every PC by 2024 #1736 →

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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 … Continue reading American Privacy Rights Act a Step in the Right Direction #1735 →

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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 … Continue reading Google Phases Out Early Nest and Dropcam Models #1734 →

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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 … Continue reading Perplexity Ads Meet AI: The New Frontier in Search #1733 →

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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 … Continue reading Unlock Your Podcast’s Potential with Blubrry PAI: The Ultimate AI Assistant #1732 →

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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 … Continue reading Vid2Pod: Transform YouTube Playlists into a Podcast! #1731 →

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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 … Continue reading SpaceX’s Starship Achieves Orbital Velocity in Historic Test Flight #1730 →

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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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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 … Continue reading Apple Considers Major Investment in OpenAI Amid AI Race #1763 →

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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 … Continue reading Arrest of Pavel Durov: Justified Action or Overreach #1762 →

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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 … Continue reading Google Documents Reveals You Truly Are the Product #1761 →

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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. … Continue reading Apple’s Strong-Arms Patreon – Creators Lose #1760 →

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NASA may call on SpaceX to rescue astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stranded on the ISS for over two months due to Boeing’s Starliner issues. The astronauts might have to stay aboard the ISS until February 2025, as NASA considers SpaceX’s Crew Dragon a backup plan. The decision highlights ongoing challenges … Continue reading SpaceX’s Potential Rescue Mission to save Boeing Astronauts #1759 →

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A recent Washington Post analysis reveals that AI chatbots like ChatGPT are primarily used for creative writing and role-playing, accounting for 21% of conversations. Younger users utilize chatbots for schoolwork, making up 18%, while searches and queries follow closely at 17%. Surprisingly, work-related usage is at 15%, programming at 7%, and image generation at 6%. … Continue reading Insights on AI Chatbot Trends #1758 →

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