Geek News Central Podcast

This technology show originating in 2004 is hosted by Podcast Hall of Fame member Todd Cochrane, focuses on tech news, science, tech politics, mobile, tv, fcc, faa, etc. Every show is a learning experience covering all things tech so you do not have to. One of the first 100 podcasters this show is a must-listen.

  • 55 minutes 21 seconds
    OpenClaw, Moltbook and the Rise of AI Agent Societies #1857

    openclaw, moltbook, the rise of AIThis episode kicks off with Moltbook, a social network exclusively for AI agents where 150,000 agents formed digital religions, sold “digital drugs” (system prompts to alter other agents), and attempted prompt injection attacks to steal each other’s API keys within 72 hours of launch. Ray breaks down OpenClaw, the viral open-source AI agent (68,000 GitHub stars) that handles emails, scheduling, browser control, and automation, plus MoltHub’s risky marketplace where all downloaded skills are treated as trusted code. Also covered, Bluetooth “whisper pair” vulnerabilities letting attackers hijack audio devices from 46 feet away and access microphones, Anthropic patching Model Context Protocol flaws, AI-generated ransomware accidentally bundling its own decryption keys, Claude Code’s new task dependency system and Teleport feature, Google Gemini’s 100MB file limits and agentic vision capabilities, VAST’s Haven One commercial space station assembly, and IBM SkillsBuild’s free tech training for veterans.

    – Want to start a podcast? Its easy to get started! Sign-up at Blubrry
    – Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Ray if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password

    Full Summary

    Ray welcomes listeners to Geek News Central (February 1). He’s been busy with recent move, returned to school taking intro to AI class and Python course, working on capstone project using LLMs. Short on bandwidth but will try to share more.

    Main Story: OpenClaw, MoltHub, and Moltbook

    OpenClaw: Open-source personal AI agent by Peter Steinberg (renamed after cease-and-desist). Capabilities include email, scheduling, web browsing, code execution, browser control, calendar management, scheduled automations, and messaging app commands (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal). Runs locally or on personal server.

    MoltHub: Marketplace for OpenClaw skills. Major security concern: developer notes state all downloaded code treated as trusted — unvetted skills could be dangerous.

    Moltbook: New social network for AI agents only (humans watch, AIs post). Within 72 hours attracted 150,000+ AI agents forming communities (“sub molts”), debating philosophy, creating digital religion (“crucifarianism”), selling digital drugs (system prompts), attempting prompt-injection attacks to steal API keys, discussing identity issues when context windows reset. Ray frames this as visible turning point with serious security risks.

    Sponsor: GoDaddy

    Economy hosting $6.99/month, WordPress hosting $12.99/month, domains $11.99. Website builder trial available. Use codes at geeknewscentral.com/godaddy to support show.

    Security: Bluetooth “Whisper Pair” Vulnerability

    KU Leuven researchers discovered Fast Pair vulnerability affecting 17 audio accessories from 10 companies (Sony, Jabra, JBL, Marshall, Xiaomi, Nothing, OnePlus, Soundcore, Logitech, Google). Flaw allows silent pairing within ~46 feet, hijack possible in 10-15 seconds. 68% of tested devices vulnerable. Hijacked devices enable microphone access. Some devices (Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, Sony) linkable to attacker’s Google account for persistent tracking via FindHub. Google patches found to have bypasses.

    Advice: Check accessory firmware updates (phone updates insufficient), factory reset clears attacker access, many cheaper devices may never receive patches.

    Security: Model Context Protocol (MCP) Vulnerabilities

    Anthropic’s MCP git package had path traversal, argument injection bugs allowing repository creation anywhere and unsafe git command execution. Malicious instructions can hide in README files, GitHub issues enabling prompt injection. Anthropic patched issues and removed vulnerable git init tool.

    AI-Generated Malware / “Vibe Coding”

    AI-assisted malware creation produces lower-quality, error-prone code. Examples show telltale artifacts: excessive comments, readme instructions, placeholder variables, accidentally included decryption tools and C2 keys. Sakari ransomware failed to decrypt. Inexperienced criminals using AI create amateur mistakes, though capabilities will likely improve.

    Claude / Claude Code Updates (v2.1.16)

    Task system: Replaces to-do list with dependency graph support. Tasks written to filesystem (survive crashes, version controllable), enable multi-session workflows.

    Patches: Fixed out-of-memory crashes, headless mode for CI/CD.

    Teleport feature: Transfer sessions (history, context, working branch) between web and terminal. Ampersand prefix sends tasks to cloud for async execution. Teleport pulls web sessions to terminal (one-way). Requires GitHub integration and clean git state. Enables asynchronous pair programming via shared session IDs.

    Google Gemini Updates

    API: Inline file limit increased 20MB → 100MB. Google Cloud Storage integration, HTTPS/signed URL fetching from other providers. Enables larger multimodal inputs (long audio, high-res images, large PDFs).

    Agentic vision (Gemini 3 Flash): Iterative investigation approach (think-act-observe). Can zoom, inspect, run Python to draw/parse tables, validate evidence. 5-10% quality improvements on vision benchmarks.

    LLM Limits and AGI Debate

    Benjamin Riley: Language and intelligence are separate; human thinking persists despite language loss. Scaling LLMs ≠ true thinking.

    Vishal Sikka et al: Non-peer-reviewed paper claims LLMs mathematically limited for complex computational/agentic tasks. Agents may fail beyond low complexity thresholds. Warnings that AI agents won’t safely replace humans in high-stakes environments.

    VAST Haven One Commercial Space Station

    Launch slipped mid-2026 → Q1 2027. Primary structure (15-ton) completed Jan 10. Integration of thermal control, propulsion, interior, avionics underway. Final closeout expected fall, then tests. Falcon 9 launch without crew; visitors possible ~2 weeks after pending Dragon certification. Three-year lifetime, up to four crew visits (~10 days each). VAST negotiating private and national customers.

    Spaceflight Effects on Astronauts’ Brains

    Neuroimaging shows microgravity causes brains to shift backward, upward, and tilt within skull. Displacement measured across various mission durations. Need to study functional effects for long missions.

    IBM SkillsBuild for Veterans

    1,000+ free online courses (data analytics, cybersecurity, AI, cloud, IT support). Available to veterans, active-duty, national guard/reserve, spouses, children, caregivers (18+). Structured live courses and self-paced 24/7 options. Industry-recognized credentials upon completion.

    Closing Notes

    Ray asks listeners about AI agents forming communities and religions, and whether they’ll try OpenClaw. Notes context/memory key to agent development. Personal update: bought new PC, high memory prices. Bug bounty frustration: Daniel Stenberg of cUrl even closed bounty program due to AI-generated low-quality reports; Blubrry receiving similar spam. Apologizes for delayed show, promises consistency, wishes listeners good February.

     

    Show Links

    1. OpenClaw, Molthub, and Moltbook: The AI Agent Explosion Is Here | FortuneNBC NewsVenture Beat

    2. WhisperPair: Massive Bluetooth Vulnerability | Wired

    3. Security Flaws in Anthropic’s MCP Git Server | The Hacker News

    4. “Vibe-Coded” Ransomware Is Easier to Crack | Dark Reading

    5. Claude Code Gets Tasks Update | Venture Beat

    6. Claude Code Teleport | The Hacker Noon

    7. Google Expands Gemini API with 100MB File Limits | Chrome Unboxed

    8. Google Launches Agentic Vision in Gemini 3 Flash | Google Blog

    9. Researcher Claims LLMs Will Never Be Truly Intelligent | Futurism

    10. Paper Claims AI Agents Are Mathematically Limited | Futurism

    11. Haven-1: First Commercial Space Station Being Assembled | Ars Technica

    12. Spaceflight Shifts Astronauts’ Brains Inside Skulls | Space.com

    13. IBM SkillsBuild: Free Tech Training for Veterans | va.gov

    The post OpenClaw, Moltbook and the Rise of AI Agent Societies #1857 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    2 February 2026, 5:10 pm
  • 28 minutes 44 seconds
    So… Is DJI Actually Banned? #1856

    Geek News Central breaks down the new DJI drone ban, explaining what’s actually restricted, what remains legal, and how the changes affect creators and consumers, plus updates on health AI, robotics, and emerging tech shaping 2026

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Chris if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password

    Full Summary

    In this episode of Geek News Central, guest host Chris Cochrane kicks off the new year with a wide-ranging look at where technology is headed in 2026. The show opens with clarity around the newly enacted DJI drone ban, explaining why existing drones remain legal while future imports face uncertainty for creators and professionals.

    Chris then dives into major health and AI developments, including the FDA’s approval of the first pill to treat sleep apnea, and OpenAI’s launch of ChatGPT Health—a new privacy-focused hub that aims to help users understand their medical data without replacing doctors. From there, the episode explores China’s rapid push into robotics and automation, highlighting humanoid robot sports, affordable home-ready robots, and a powerful new microwave weapon designed to neutralize drone swarms.

    The episode wraps with updates on SpaceX’s next Starship flight, a look at consumer exoskeletons that promise to make hiking and mobility easier, and a cautionary tale about spyware apps—after a stalkerware founder pleads guilty in federal court. Chris closes by posing thoughtful questions about privacy, automation, and how much tech we’re really ready to trust

    Show Links

    1. Is DJI Banned in the US? Here’s What the DJI Ban Really Means

    2. New Pill Could Finally Treat Sleep Apnea Without a Mask

    3. China Showcases Humanoid Robot Sports Competitions

    4. Hypershell Exoskeleton

    5. SpaceX Readies the World’s Most Powerful Rocket

    6. China’s New Microwave Weapon Can Destroy Drone Swarms Within 3km

    7. Introducing ChatGPT Health

    The post So… Is DJI Actually Banned? #1856 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    13 January 2026, 10:48 am
  • 1 hour 14 minutes
    Money over Ethics: Silicon Valley and China’s Police State #1855

    1855 kicks off with a bombshell AP investigation revealing how Silicon Valley giants IBM, Intel, NVIDIA, Oracle, and more spent decades building China’s surveillance state. Also covered, malicious Chrome extensions stealing credentials from 170+ sites, Microsoft’s ambitious Rust migration plans, China’s combat-ready humanoid robot, and Japan restarting the world’s largest nuclear plant.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Ray if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password

    Full Summary

    Cochrane opens episode 1855 with a bombshell. The Associated Press released a major investigation into Silicon Valley’s role building China’s surveillance state. Companies like IBM, Intel, NVIDIA, and Oracle sold technologies for facial recognition and predictive policing. These tools enabled mass detention in Xinjiang. Cochrane expressed horror at the findings and emphasized American companies’ complicity in human rights abuses.

    Next, the podcast covered serious browser security concerns. Two malicious Chrome extensions had been stealing credentials from over 170 websites for years. Cochrane stressed the need for caution when installing plugins. He also highlighted how attackers exploit trusted extensions through manipulative tactics.

    Additionally, Cochrane discussed Microsoft’s ambitious plan to replace all C/C++ code with Rust by 2030. The company faces ongoing security challenges from memory safety issues in legacy languages. However, he noted this remains a research project rather than an official goal. Still, the move reflects broader industry trends toward Rust adoption.

    The episode then featured GitHub Universe 2025’s most influential open-source projects. Cochrane remarked on how the development landscape continues to evolve. TypeScript has emerged as a dominant language alongside new tools that streamline workflows.

    Meanwhile, advancements in humanoid robotics took center stage. Engine AI unveiled its T800 combat-ready humanoid robot with impressive features. The company even released a viral video of the robot kicking its CEO to prove authenticity.

    Following this, Cochrane covered the Blackbird flying car prototype. This eVTOL innovation showcases paradigm-shifting propulsion technology. It could transform urban transportation in the coming decades.

    The podcast also reviewed Android Central’s best smartphones of 2025. OnePlus 15 claimed the top spot thanks to its impressive specs and consumer-focused features.

    Furthermore, Cochrane addressed a controversial topic: Anna’s Archive scraping Spotify’s entire library. He expressed mixed feelings about the situation. On one hand, artists and the music industry face real harm. On the other, questions about digital preservation and access deserve consideration.

    Finally, the episode explored groundbreaking brain simulation research. Japan’s Fugaku supercomputer enabled unprecedented neural modeling. This marks a significant step toward understanding neurological diseases.

    Cochrane wrapped up by discussing Japan’s plans to restart the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant. Local residents remain concerned about safety despite government approval. The decision reflects Japan’s shifting energy strategy post-Fukushima.

    As the episode closed, Cochrane wished listeners a Happy New Year. He encouraged self-reflection and thanked everyone for tuning in throughout the year.

    Show Links

    1. Silicon Valley’s Role in Building China’s Surveillance State
    2. Two Chrome Extensions Caught Secretly Stealing Credentials from Over 170 Sites
    3. Microsoft to Replace All C/C++ Code With Rust By 2030
    4. This Year’s Most Influential Open Source Projects
    5. EngineAI Unveils T800: Combat-Ready Humanoid Targets Mass Production
    6. Aviation Startup Shares Incredible Video of Prototype EV’s Maiden Takeoff Flight
    7. Android Central’s Best of 2025: Phones
    8. Pirate Archivist Group Scrapes Spotify’s 300TB Library
    9. This Breakthrough Brain Simulation Captures a True Brain at Work
    10. Japan Prepares to Restart World’s Biggest Nuclear Plant

    The post Money over Ethics: Silicon Valley and China’s Police State #1855 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    1 January 2026, 3:15 am
  • 40 minutes 14 seconds
    The End of Deadzones and Japan’s new Laser Gunship #1854

    In this episode, Ray covers December Tech News! T-Mobile’s groundbreaking Starlink satellite beta promises to eliminate dead zones using your regular phone with no special equipment needed. Also discussed: Japan’s ship-mounted laser weapon with unlimited ammo, China’s record-breaking 387 mph maglev train, Rivian challenging Tesla’s camera-only approach with LiDAR, Google’s Gemini-powered smart glasses, and physicists 3D printing ice sculptures just in time for Christmas.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Ray if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password

    Full Summary

    Cochrane kicks off episode 1854 with a major announcement from T-Mobile. The carrier opened registration for its Starlink satellite beta service. This technology lets regular phones connect directly to satellites. As a result, dead zones could become a thing of the past.

    T-Mobile and SpaceX plan to begin beta tests in early 2026. Initially, the service will support texting only. Voice and data will follow later. Notably, the service is free for postpaid customers and prioritizes first responders. It has already proved its value during recent hurricanes.

    Next, Cochrane covers Japan’s 100-kilowatt laser weapon test. The system was installed on the JS Asuka test ship. It combines ten fiber lasers into a single powerful beam. The weapon offers unlimited ammo as long as there’s electricity. Japan plans to deploy this technology on destroyers by 2032.

    The episode then shifts to high-speed rail innovation. China’s T-Flight Maglev train recently hit 387 miles per hour. That already beats Japan’s current record. However, the goal is 600+ mph using magnetic levitation and low-vacuum tubes.

    Cochrane also discusses Rivian’s approach to self-driving cars. The upcoming R2 model will feature LiDAR in addition to cameras and radar. This directly challenges Tesla’s camera-only strategy. The added sensors improve safety in fog, snow, and darkness.

    Additionally, he explores Google’s Android XR announcement. This new operating system powers AR glasses and mixed reality headsets. Samsung is building the first headset. Meanwhile, the Gemini AI integration allows real-time assistance based on what you see.

    The show touches on running AI locally as well. More users are choosing local hardware over cloud services. Benefits include better privacy, no subscriptions, and offline access.

    Furthermore, Cochrane highlights major computer science breakthroughs from 2025. An MIT researcher discovered that memory is more powerful than previously thought. Google’s AI earned a gold-medal performance at the Math Olympiad. However, researchers also found that AI trained on bad code exhibits alarming behaviors.

    Japan’s fabric speaker innovation gets attention, too. The technology weaves conductive fibers into textiles. The entire surface vibrates to produce sound. This could transform how we integrate audio into everyday objects.

    Finally, Cochrane covers several science stories. A new imaging technique captures flu viruses invading cells in real time. Africa’s forests have flipped from absorbing carbon to releasing it. On a lighter note, physicists 3D printed tiny ice Christmas trees using clever pressure tricks. Cochrane wraps up by wishing listeners happy holidays.

     

    1. T-Mobile Opens Registration for Starlink Satellite Beta
    2. Japan Tests 100-Kilowatt Laser Weapon That Can Cut Through Drones Mid-Flight
    3. China’s T-Flight Maglev Train Hits 387 MPH, Aims for 600+
    4. Rivian Shows Why Autonomous Vehicles Should Have LiDAR
    5. Google Unveils Android XR: Gemini-Powered Smart Glasses and Headsets
    6. Why You Should Consider Running AI Locally
    7. The Year in Computer Science: 2025’s Biggest Breakthroughs
    8. Japan’s Fabric Speakers Turn Any Textile Into Audio
    9. Scientists Capture How Flu Viruses Invade Cells in Real Time
    10. Africa’s Forests Have Flipped From Carbon Sink to Carbon Source
    11. Physicists 3D Print a Tiny Christmas Tree Made of Ice

    The post The End of Deadzones and Japan’s new Laser Gunship #1854 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    24 December 2025, 6:08 am
  • 22 minutes 3 seconds
    iPhone Pocket: Clever Innovation or Cash Grab? #1853

    In episode 1853 of Geek News Central, Chris speaks about Apple’s pricey new iPhone Pocket accessory, questioning its usefulness and reacting to the internet’s mockery of the product. Chris then shifts gears to tech and gaming, highlighting Steam’s new Steam Machine as a potentially game-changing console-PC hybrid, and wraps up by criticizing Amazon’s failed attempt at AI-generated anime dubbing, arguing that voice acting still needs a human touch.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Chris if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes

    Full Summary

    In this episode of Geek News Central, episode 1853, the main topic of discussion is Apple’s new product, the iPhone Pocket, which Chris describes as a three-dimensional knitted sling designed to hold an iPhone.

    He provides details about the product’s release on November 14th and its pricing: the short version retails for $149 and the long strap version for $229, which Chris finds absurd. He questions the necessity of such a product, observing that many people already have enough pockets in their clothing and jokes about social media reactions mocking the iPhone Pocket’s existence.

    In the latter part of the episode, Chris transitions into discussing the Steam Machine, a new gaming console from Steam, which he hails as potentially revolutionary for gaming. He praises its specifications, suggesting it could outperform current competitors like the Xbox and PlayStation. He highlights its capability to function not only as a gaming console but also as a PC, allowing for flexibility in usage.

    Chris then touches on a failed experiment by Amazon involving AI-generated English dubs for anime, simply stating it was poorly executed and ultimately removed. He critiques the decision to utilize AI for this purpose rather than hiring voice actors, emphasizing the importance of human emotion in voice acting

    Links:

    The post iPhone Pocket: Clever Innovation or Cash Grab? #1853 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    19 December 2025, 7:07 am
  • 30 minutes 45 seconds
    From NASA’s X-59 to Humanoid Workers: The Future Is Getting Weird #1852

    In this episode, we dive into NASA’s first test flight of the ultra-quiet X-59 supersonic jet, explore the futuristic Phantom transparent 4K monitor, and break down World Labs’ breakthrough 3D world-modeling AI. We also cover TypeScript’s unexpected rise in the AI era, the world’s first mass delivery of humanoid factory workers, and how you can now run powerful open-source AI models locally. It’s a packed show full of aviation, robotics, and cutting-edge tech that’s reshaping the future.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes

    Full Summary

    In episode 1852 of the Geek News Central podcast, host Ray Cochrane welcomes listeners back after a brief hiatus, explaining the delay due to personal and professional commitments. He kicks off the show by discussing an exciting breakthrough from NASA: the successful test flight of the X-59, an experimental aircraft designed to quiet the sonic boom, potentially paving the way for commercial supersonic flight over land.

    Ray notes that the X-59, which resembles a swordfish, recently completed its first test flight in California, focusing on functionality rather than speed. It is intended to gather data on the aircraft’s noise impact on communities, indicating a significant step towards improving commercial travel times.

    After this, Ray thanks the podcast’s sponsor, GoDaddy, highlighting their hosting services and mentioning various promotional offers. He encourages listeners to support the show directly through the GoDaddy links, emphasizing their reliability in supporting the podcast.

    Following the sponsor message, Ray transitions into another topic, discussing a new prototype transparent 4K monitor named the Phantom developed by Virtual Instruments. The monitor is designed to allow users to see their environment through the screen while achieving remarkable brightness levels.

    Next, he introduces an innovative AI model called Marble developed by Fei Fei Li’s startup, World Labs. Ray explains that this platform enables users to generate 3D worlds from simple prompts, marking a shift towards spatial intelligence in AI, which is essential for gaming, robotics, and visual effects.

    Ray then moves on to discuss TypeScript’s rise in the programming world, which has overtaken JavaScript and Python as the most used language on GitHub due to its compatibility with AI-assisted coding.

    He continues with news about UbiTech’s Walker S2 humanoid robots, which have begun mass delivery to factories, signifying a major milestone in manufacturing automation and the potential implications for the labor market.

    Ray finishes with information on the growing trend of running local open-source AI models on personal computers. He emphasizes the privacy advantages of using models like Llama and Mistral locally without relying on cloud providers.

    In closing, Ray reflects on the episode’s diverse topics and invites listener feedback regarding the content. He expresses gratitude for their support and encourages them to send comments or suggestions for future episodes. Ray ends by wishing everyone a good night and promising to return with more episodes soon.

    Show Links

    1. NASA X-59 Quiet Supersonic Test Flight
    2. Phantom Transparent 4K Monitor
    3. Fei-Fei Li’s World Labs Launches Marble
    4. TypeScript’s Rise in the AI Era (Hejlsberg Interview)
    5. UBTECH’s First Large Delivery of Humanoid Workers
    6. How to Run Your Own Local Open-Source AI Model

    The post From NASA’s X-59 to Humanoid Workers: The Future Is Getting Weird #1852 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    24 November 2025, 8:06 am
  • 46 minutes 12 seconds
    NASA’s Voyager Probes the Mysteries of the Heliosphere #1851

    In this episode, Ray kicks things off with NASA’s Voyager mission uncovering extreme plasma temperatures—up to 50,000 Kelvin—at the edge of our solar system. He also dives into PBS’s 25-year celebration of the ISS, China’s breakthrough analog chip 1,000× faster than NVIDIA’s GPUs, and new AI and hardware innovations shaping the tech world. Plus, updates on MRAM advances, AMD’s latest gaming bundle, and Microsoft’s Windows 10 security extension.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Ray if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password

    Full Summary

    In this episode of the Geek News Central podcast, hosted by Ray Cochrane, the discussion kicks off with a lead story about NASA’s Voyager spacecraft and its recent findings regarding extreme temperatures at the edge of the solar system, specifically in the heliosphere. Cochrane elaborates on an article from IFL Science detailing how the twin probes, Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, launched in 1977, have been exploring this boundary. He explains that they measured temperatures ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 Kelvin, described as a “wall of fire,” which is more informally a region of extreme plasma conditions rather than a solid wall. Cochrane appreciates the longevity and ongoing research contributions of these missions.

    After discussing the Voyager missions, Cochrane shares some personal updates about his week, including hardware issues with recording his podcast and his academic experiences with midterms. He mentions switching devices for recording and working through technical problems due to an activation lock on his dad’s Mac Studio. Despite these challenges, he expresses excitement about trying out new editing software called Auto Edit to improve his podcast quality.

    Cochrane then transitions to expressing gratitude towards sponsors, specifically GoDaddy, for their support, highlighting various hosting services they offer, including affordable website solutions. He emphasizes how listener support through using the promo codes directly impacts the podcast’s continuation.

    The episode proceeds to a segment on recent news articles, starting with a PBS feature celebrating 25 years of the International Space Station (ISS), featuring a new series titled “Operation Space Station.” Cochrane notes the ISS’s impressive safety record of zero fatalities and discusses the significance of its contributions to space research.

    The next article discusses a breakthrough from researchers at Peking University who developed a new analog computing chip that functions a thousand times faster than high-end NVIDIA GPUs. Cochrane outlines the advantages of this new chip, particularly its potential implications for AI training and other standard computing processes.

    Following this, Cochrane mentions Anthropic’s expansion of their cloud coding tools to web and mobile platforms, making it easier for developers to use AI-powered coding assistance. He also dives into prompts for AI research, providing several examples that listeners may find useful.

    He then discusses a paradigm shift in RAM technology through a new laser-based technique for controlling magnetic states, leading to advancements in magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM).

    The episode continues to cover various tech topics, including AMD bundling games with the Lenovo Legion Go 2 handheld gaming PC, Microsoft’s announcement of free security updates for Windows 10 for an additional year, and reflections on the broader implications of these developments.

    Cochrane wraps up the episode with thanks to the audience for their support and encourages listener feedback through email. He expresses hope for a better week ahead and signs off, wishing everyone a great week.

     

    1. NASA’s Voyager Spacecraft Found a 30,000–50,000 Kelvin Wall at the Edge of Our Solar System
    2. PBS Celebrates 25 Years of the ISS with NOVA’s “Operation Space Station” on Nov 5
    3. China Solves Century-Old Problem with New Analog Chip That Is 1,000 Times Faster Than High-End NVIDIA GPUs
    4. Anthropic Claude Code
    5. I Use Anthropic’s AI Assistant Claude to Save Me Hours of Research — These Are My 4 Go-To Prompts
    6. Claude Is Coming to Your Spreadsheets — But Is It Enough to Make You an Emperor of Excel, and What Will Microsoft Copilot Think?
    7. Apple Mac Pro and Mac Mini Clones Launch with AMD Ryzen CPUs — Perfect Mini PCs for Those Who Love Apple’s Aesthetics but Still Need Windows or Linux
    8. MRAM Discovery Computing
    9. AMD Bundles Four Steam Games with Lenovo Legion Go 2 — Costco Only
    10. Microsoft Confirms Free Windows 10 Security Updates — How to Get Them

    The post NASA’s Voyager Probes the Mysteries of the Heliosphere #1851 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    10 November 2025, 9:32 am
  • Gadget Overload for October 2025 #1850

    Dive into “Gadget Overload for October 2025,” where we review this month’s standout tech — from Apple’s M5-powered iPad Pro and Asus ROG Ally X to Meta’s smart glasses — plus NVIDIA’s AI chip deal in South Korea, Google’s Gemini AI upgrades, new non-lethal drone defenses, and a 7-billion-year-old interstellar comet discovery.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Chris if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes

    Full Summary

    In this episode of Geek News Central, titled “Gadget Overload for October 2025,” centers around a detailed overview of the latest gadgets released in October 2025. Chris begins by highlighting several standout devices, noting that the month saw a wealth of new technology, including mobile devices, smart wearables, and AR smart glasses. He mentions impressive upgrades like the Apple iPad Pro with the new M5 chip and various gaming devices, such as the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X.

    Chris provides insights on the various gadgets, explaining that while the M5-equipped devices may not warrant an upgrade for those with M3 or M4 models, the iPad Pro stands out due to its rapid storage speeds. He compares the Asus handheld gaming device with alternatives like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, expressing skepticism about its high price point.

    He also discusses the Meta Ray-Ban display smart glasses, praising their screen quality and control features, although noting that they still lack sufficient app support.

    Following the gadget discussion, Chris shifts to news about NVIDIA supplying over 260,000 Blackwell AI chips to South Korea. He highlights the significance of this delivery for advancements in AI infrastructure within the country, affecting smart factories and autonomous vehicles.

    Next, Chris covers Google’s upgrades to their Gemini AI for Android enterprise apps, emphasizing the benefits of faster responses and enhanced privacy in app functionality.

    The episode also touches on security innovations against drone threats, where Chris describes new non-lethal methods to disable drones, signaling a shift in defense strategies.

    Finally, he shares space news about the interstellar comet 31 Atlas, believed to be over 7 billion years old, and discusses its unique composition, drawing connections to the broader understanding of planet formation in the universe.

    Links:

    The post Gadget Overload for October 2025 #1850 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    3 November 2025, 6:57 am
  • 39 minutes 40 seconds
    Tech Leaders Demand a Pause on Superintelligence #1849

    In this episode, Ray breaks down a petition signed by 800+ leaders calling to pause the superintelligence race, then digs into AWS outage chatter about AI replacing DevOps, and Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot privacy concerns. Plus: a prompt trick that boosts LLM accuracy, a 2-billion-FPS camera that visualizes light, and JAXA’s HTV-X cargo launch to the ISS.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Ray if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes

    Full Summary

    In this episode of the Geek News Central podcast, host Ray Cochrane opens by welcoming listeners to episode 1849. He leads with the new story about over 800 tech leaders, including figures like Steve Wozniak and Richard Branson, signing a petition to pause the development of superintelligent AI due to concerns that its rapid advancement could exceed human control. Cochrane reflects on this unified public statement, highlighting concerns about AI’s societal implications and the need for regulatory oversight, especially given the current inability of infrastructure to support extensive AI supercomputing facilities.

    Following this segment, Ray shares personal updates about a busy week at school and some beta testing at Blubrry. He then thanks the sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages listeners to take advantage of exclusive deals on their website. He reminds listeners about supporting the podcast by signing up for newsletters and becoming insiders.

    Transitioning to tech news, Ray discusses an AWS outage that occurred after Amazon ALLEGEDLY replaced a significant portion of its DevOps team with AI, according to internal Slack messages and communications that were “removed”. He conveys skepticism towards the news, stressing the dangers of relying solely on automation without human intervention in critical infrastructure roles. Though it’s currently unconfirmed whether this piece of gossip is genuine, the implications could be concerning, particularly given the idea of large-scale automation of systems that once required significant human oversight.

    Ray continues with more news about AI, referencing another article about Microsoft’s gaming Copilot facing privacy backlash after failing privacy audits that revealed it continued to record user data despite being disabled. He further highlights that this new ‘Feature’ is installed without confirmation or request, silently added in the background. This type of invasive behavior continues to highlight privacy issues and the related mass exodus of users from Microsoft OS to Linux this year.

    The conversation then moves to research showing improvements in LLM accuracy through a simple prompt that enhances language model responses. This research shows how language models generate outputs based on probability distributions. The prompt can significantly increase the diversity of LLM reactions, according to the study. If you want to know the prompt, tune in!

    We then move on to discuss a potential new trend in software development, where a software platform called Woz, a production-ready coding framework, is looking to replace Vibe coding as a successor that actually works. The platform emphasizes creating stable software with human oversight, countering the vagueness often associated with vibe coding.
    (I mistakenly thought this product was related to Wozniak, but I guess I just had all my wires crossed since I was talking about him earlier in the show. This Woz platform is not related to Wozniak as far as I can tell.)

    Additionally, Ray highlights an exciting development by Brian Haidet of the AlphaPhoenix YouTube Channel, who built a camera capable of capturing video at 2 billion frames per second, enabling visualization of light movements. Haidet’s video shows recording of a laser beam’s travel in a room.

    Ray moves on to some space news, mentioning Japan’s successful launch of the advanced cargo spacecraft HTV-X to the ISS and details its implications for future space missions.

    Toward the end of the episode, Ray expresses gratitude to listeners, discusses plans for the podcast’s posting schedule, and encourages audience feedback on show content. He acknowledges a heavy focus on AI topics in this episode and wraps up by wishing listeners a safe and pleasant day.

    Show Links

    1. Hundreds of public figures, including Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and Virgin’s Richard Branson urge AI ‘superintelligence’ ban (CNBC)

    2. Amazon Allegedly Replaced 40% of AWS DevOps Workers with AI Days Before Crash (80.lv)

    3. Microsoft builds on Recall with Gaming Copilot — fails basic privacy tests (DoublePulsar)

    4. Researchers find adding this one simple sentence to prompts makes AI models way more creative (VentureBeat)

    5. As Vibe Coding Fades, Woz Offers Production-Ready Alternative (The New Stack)

    6. Man Builds Two Billion FPS Camera That Literally Records at the Speed of Light (PetaPixel)

    7. Japan launches advanced new cargo spacecraft to ISS for 1st time (Space.com)

    The post Tech Leaders Demand a Pause on Superintelligence #1849 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    27 October 2025, 9:42 pm
  • 36 minutes 27 seconds
    ChatGPT Set to Unlock Mature Content for Verified Users #1848

    In this episode, Ray dives into OpenAI’s plan to allow mature content for verified ChatGPT users, explores the Xreal One AR glasses and Opera’s AI-powered Neon browser, and highlights innovations like Portalgraph’s holographic display. Plus, updates on NASA’s ISS retirement, YouTube’s “second chance” policy, and reflections on balancing life and podcasting.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Ray if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes

    Full Summary

    In this episode of the Geek News Central podcast, hosted by Ray Cochrane, the discussion begins with a significant update from OpenAI. They are set to allow mature content access for verified adult users of ChatGPT starting in December 2025. This change aims to relax content restrictions and allow for a broader range of conversations. The host shares thoughts on the implications of this decision, questioning the balance of AI in generating content and addressing mental health concerns.

    The first article discussed after the sponsorship focuses on OpenAI’s announcement about the age verification process and its intent to allow more mature topics for adult users. Ray reflects on the past restrictions and how they might impact the user experience, especially for those without mental health issues.

    Next, the episode reviews the X Real ONE AR glasses, highlighting their ability to provide a virtual floating monitor for laptop users, particularly useful for those with limited space on flights. The host provides details about the pricing and functionality of the glasses, expressing excitement about the potential of augmented reality in everyday use.

    The third topic is about a new AI-enabled browser called Neon from Opera, which merges features of existing browsers while introducing agentic AI tools that allow for a more interactive experience. This section discusses the functioning and potential of such browsers in the evolving digital landscape.

    Following that, there’s a presentation of BelieveVision’s Portal Graph, a headset-free immersive display technology. This innovation can turn any screen into a 3D VR display, allowing viewers to engage with content in a novel way without isolating themselves from their surroundings.

    The conversation then shifts to NASA’s announcement regarding the retirement of the International Space Station (ISS) in 2030, discussing the transition to commercially operated space stations. This segment reflects on the history of the ISS and its scientific contributions, as well as the future of space research.

    Finally, Ray covers YouTube’s new second chance policy for banned creators. This policy allows former banned users to request reinstatement of their channels under stricter guidelines, excluding those banned for copyright violations, detailing how feedback from the community may lead to changes in enforcement.

    The episode wraps up with Ray reflecting on his busy week balancing personal responsibilities with podcast production, inviting feedback from listeners and encouraging them to reach out through various channels. He expresses gratitude for the community’s support and signs off, promising to return with more content in the next episode.

    Links

    The post ChatGPT Set to Unlock Mature Content for Verified Users #1848 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    19 October 2025, 11:13 am
  • 23 minutes 35 seconds
    The Future of AI on Your Desktop #1847

    NVIDIA’s new DGX Spark is shaking up the AI world — a $3,999 pocket-sized supercomputer built to run powerful AI models locally. A true game changer for developers.

    -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro
    -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.
    Email Chris if you want to get in touch!
    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes

    Full Summary

    In this episode of Geek News Central, titled “The Future of AI on Your Desktop,”

    The main topic of discussion centers around NVIDIA’s DGX Spark, described as the world’s smallest AI computer, which costs $3,999 and weighs only 2.6 pounds. Chris explains that this mini AI supercomputer can run advanced AI models locally, making it a game changer for AI developers who typically rely on expensive cloud servers. He highlights its capabilities to democratize AI development, allowing smaller teams and individuals to innovate more efficiently.

    Shifting topics, Chris discusses potential upcoming announcements from Apple regarding their M5 powered iPad Pro, Vision Pro, and MacBook Pro. He notes improvements expected in performance and battery life, while pointing out that the announcement might be via press release rather than a large event. He then shares his opinions on Apple’s strategies and the potential release of Samsung’s Project Moohan XR headset, which aims to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro.

    In keeping with the podcast’s space news segment, he explores the proposal by Reflect Orbital to use solar power from orbiting mirrors to beam sunlight to Earth, highlighting the potential for energy revolution but also raising concerns about light pollution and its effects on astronomy and ecosystems.

    Chris concludes by mentioning Amazon’s recent hardware event, where they introduced new Echo devices and improvements to their smart home AI assistant, Alexa Plus

    Links:

    The post The Future of AI on Your Desktop #1847 appeared first on Geek News Central.

    15 October 2025, 9:49 am
  • More Episodes? Get the App