Tech Radio Ireland

This week on Tech Radio, we explore the "New World Order" of technology. From the shifting geopolitical landscape to the rise of a multipolar world, we discuss how AI and data are rewriting the rules of global power and why America may no longer be the world’s sole "tech policeman."We dive into the escalating technological war, including France’s crackdown on VPNs and social media age limits, and the latest milestones in the Artemis moon mission—including why a liquid hydrogen leak won't stop the next giant leap for mankind. Plus, we look at Elon Musk’s orbital ambitions: could data centres in space solve our power problems on Earth?Irish influencer and digital strategist Chelsea Tyler McGrane joins us to pull back the curtain on the creator economy. She shares how she built a combined following of over 50k in just 12 months, the secret to her viral "Chinese in the car" reviews, and why transparency is the only way to survive the shifting tides of social media. Instagram: @chelseatylermcgrane TikTok: @chelseatylermcgrane—----- Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube.Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradioWould you like me to draft some catchy titles for this episode based on these topics?

This week on Tech Radio, we dive into France’s bold decision to "decouple" from American tech giants like Microsoft and Cisco. We explore whether Europe can truly rebuild its own tech ecosystem or if the continent is simply suffering from a 30-year "tech lag."We also dissect the controversial shifts at TikTok following its US sale, the "cyber-murder" tactics targeting Poland’s energy grid, and why Amazon is letting go of another 16,000 employees despite a booming stock price.Plus, our guest Elaine Laird, Chief People Officer at Logitech, discusses the challenge of gender diversity in STEM. She shares insights on how inclusive design led to products like the Aurora collection and why her mission is to stop young girls from believing the "I'm not good at maths" myth.—----- Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube.Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

We look back at the seven biggest stories of the week, including a social media ban for young people in the UK, ChatGPT’s move into advertising, and the billionaire Twitter spat we didn't know we wanted. We also explore the arrival of SEPA instant payments in Ireland and what it means for the future of neobanks like Revolut.Plus, our guest Fergal Brosnan, CEO of RDI Hub, fills us in on the importance of the "cluster effect" for start-ups and how Kerry is becoming a focal point for fermenting new tech ideas.Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

This week, we look at the rapidly shifting landscape of digital defense, where the line between "smart computing" and true Artificial Intelligence is becoming increasingly blurred. As criminals begin to use Large Language Models to craft flawless phishing emails and bespoke malware, the "human factor" is being tested like never before.We're asking a vital question: Is it time to stop blaming the user and start building better guardrails? From the "confidently wrong" nature of AI decision-making to the terrifying reality of supply chain attacks like SolarWinds, we explore why the old methods of "detect and react" are no longer enough to keep businesses safe.In our interview this week, we talk about the journey of cybersecurity with Danny Jenkins, co-founder of ThreatLocker. From his early days as an apprentice in Cavan to leading a global security firm in Florida, Danny explains the evolution of "Zero Trust" and why the most dangerous hacking tools today might look exactly like your iPhone charging cable.—-----Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech

In this episode of Tech Radio, Niall Kitson broadcasts from the RDS Dublin for the 2026 Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, where 1,000 students are showcasing over 550 projects. This year's innovations bridge the gap between high-end tech and practical community solutions, featuring everything from Eco Sprout, a sustainability app for conscious shopping, to a specialized underwater rescue headset that uses eye-tracking sensors to prevent drownings.The exhibition highlights a strong move toward "gamifying" positive behavior, seen in the Bin Box robots that reward proper waste disposal with music and prizes. Other technical breakthroughs include Power Predict, an app forecasting power outages ten days in advance, and Gatekeeper, a Raspberry Pi-powered system designed to help dairy farmers detect livestock lameness at a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives.The episode also tackles the social and biological challenges of the modern era. Students share findings on algorithmic bias in AI imagery and the hidden impact of Snapchat on teenage dating habits and mental health. The showcase concludes with a look at the gut microbiome, where student research suggests surprising effects of zero-sugar drinks on beneficial bacteria. Press play for a fast-paced tour of the brilliant young minds shaping Ireland’s technological landscape in 2026.

We’re looking back on top stories of 2025 and critically, looking ahead at 2026!  Dusty and Niall are joined by Tech Central journalist Jason Walsh for a sparky show. Warning: Opinions May Differ!Also, we say thank you to RTE’s digital radio service RTE Radio One Extra.  For many years Tech Radio has been a feature on their schedule but from Dec 31st all will fall quiet as the radio service closes.  Our thanks to Erik and the team for believing in our show and bringing it to new audiences across the country. —----- Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech

This week, we look at two massive, international developments that will reshape how we all use the internet, whether you're a heavy user or just checking in now and then.We're asking a vital question: Where Australia goes, so goes the world? The country has just implemented a pioneering, comprehensive ban on social media accounts for anyone under 16, and the fallout is immediate—not just for Big Tech, but for the kids now searching for alternatives. And speaking of big changes, the US is looking to make your digital past a part of your future travel plans, demanding a lengthy history of your social activity just to get an ESTA.In our interview this week, we talk about the journey of AI, from Clippy in Microsoft Word to ChatGPT, with Brian Mac Namee, Associate Professor in the School of Computer Science at UCD. He'll explain how large language models are only the public face of a technology that’s been evolving for decades.—-----Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech

We got you covered with smart gift ideas that'll actually get used, from VR headsets that don't need a gaming PC to AI phone assistants with a proper Dublin accent.  On top of dozens of tech gift ideas you also learn how to spot tech worth buying secondhand, subscription services actually worth paying for and why fitness tracking doesn't need a smartwatch. —----- Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech—------TECH FIRE TechFire returns on 9 December with a look at cyber resilience. Organisations are clinging to the idea, that resiliency begins and ends, with backups and out-of-date disaster recovery plans. So how do we untangle the services and dependencies holding your IT estate together? And what is the role of partners in making sure the limits of policy and resources, don't get tested by a security incident?Join - Bill Unsworth, Director of Cloud for UK & Ireland at IBM- Declan Hussey CEO of DNA IT Solutions- and Robert Kelly, founder of HRI …… to explore the difference between high availability, disaster recovery, and cyber resiliency.That’s TechFire on 9th December at 10am. Register for place for free right now at techfire.techcentral.ie

This week, we're diving into the EU's push to ban social media for Irish kids, Ireland's space economy is having a record year and we share our Black Friday tech bargains. Plus, we look at AI in the workplace and how it is forcing companies to rethink their ways of doing business internally and out with Neil Bowden from Dell Technologies Ireland.If you would like to hear the previous episode we mentioned about the Irish Space Industry, you’ll find it here;https://www.techcentral.ie/an-irish-perspective-on-space-4-0/—------TECH FIRE TechFire returns on 9 December with a look at cyber resilience. Organisations are clinging to the idea, that resiliency begins and ends, with backups and out-of-date disaster recovery plans. So how do we untangle the services and dependencies holding your IT estate together? And what is the role of partners in making sure the limits of policy and resources, don't get tested by a security incident?Join - Bill Unsworth, Director of Cloud for UK & Ireland at IBM- Declan Hussey CEO of DNA IT Solutions- and Robert Kelly, founder of HRI …… to explore the difference between high availability, disaster recovery, and cyber resiliency.That’s TechFire on 9th December at 10am. Register for place for free right now at techfire.techcentral.ie—-----Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech

This week, why Apple might be pulling the plug on the iPhone Air before it's barely started and what Tim Cook's potential departure next year could mean for the company's direction. We also look at how 20% of the internet went dark this week and are we watching an AI bubble burst in real-time. Plus, we talk about how colleges can embrace AI instead of being afraid of it with our guest Dr Hazel Farrell from SETU.—----- Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech

This week, Apple's planning a budget MacBook targeting the space Chromebooks have dominated for years. We also break down the eye-watering $38 billion OpenAI-Amazon deal and why it’s like Netflix paying your Netflix subscription. Plus we find out more about Science Week with Ruth Freeman from Research Ireland. For more on Science Week, 09 - 16 Nov, see scienceweek.ie—----- Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTubehttps://www.podfollow.com/tech

This week, Amazon's mass redundancy tells us a lot about the world's AI transformation. We also look at the less than stellar way they explained it in an internal email to employees. Microsoft's had a proper wobble with Azure taking out Microsoft 365 services, yet their valuation still hit a record high. And the continuing row over the appointment of an Irish Data Protection Commissioner steps up a gear. Plus, with Beta Festival starting next weekend the 7th of November, we find out more about the ton of tech events lined up with festival founder and director Aisling Murray.  You can find our more about the festival at BetaFestival.ieListen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

We cover the really mundane reason Monday's massive AWS outage shut down the internet, exposing an uncomfortable truth about how we've essentially put all our eggs in just three baskets: AWS, Google, and Microsoft. Closer to home, an AI-generated deepfake video showed an Irish election candidate withdrawing from the race, complete with a convincing fake Sharon Ní Bheoláin presenting it on RTÉ News. The question everyone's asking: who made it, and how do we stop this becoming the new normal? Plus, we'll look at why your driving licence is going digital by 2030.Plus, we’ll be chatting with Grace Dinan of JunieXR about how live Augmented and Virtual Reality works on all our TV sports coverage.  You can also meet her when she exhibits at Prism next week, on October 29th, at Dundalk Institute of Technology.  See Eirmersive for more; https://www.eirmersive.com/listings/prismListen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

Windows 10 is finally being killed off by Microsoft. We look at what you can do and what Microsoft's strategy is going forward.  We also check out the all new MacBook Pro M5, and dig into a surprise move from Google with Europe's DMA.Plus, we have a fascinating chat about AI in the workplace with Lisa Hunt, Microsoft Practice Director at Viatel Technology Group.Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

We unpack Budget 2025's AI spending commitments and ask whether the money will actually make a difference to Irish businesses trying to navigate digital transformation. We're also looking at the uncomfortable question everyone in tech is thinking but not saying out loud: are we in an AI bubble and what happens when it bursts? Finally, we explore why billionaires think hosting your data in orbit might be a brilliant idea Plus, our guest Kieran McCorry, Microsoft’s National Technology, fills us in on why AI is being used less by women and Gen Z and how more people than ever are looking to move jobs.Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

This week Apple continues its war with the EU over the Digital Markets Act, the entertainment industry continues its war with AI, and Asahi goes to war after a cyber attack brings its business to a halt. Plus HP Ireland country manager Neil Dover talks about technology and culture in the workplace.Don't forget Niall's sci-fi movie recommedation on Netflix "Lost in Starlight"Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

This week Amazon steps away from groceries in the UK, Apple complains about the digital markets act and why Gen Z is so unpopular at work. We also get a glimpse of understanding risk and in the age of AI with Aon’s Jonathan McKenna and Martin McGovern.A reminder that TechCentral’s webinar on ransomware attacks is on this Oct 03rd. More details and free registration at webinar.techcentral.ieListen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

This week Meta once again tries to make AR glasses happenm there’s a new face at the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner and TikTok has a buyer in the US, with strings attached. We also talk with IBM’s Elaine Hanley about the state of cybersecurity in 2025.Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradiof0315050eea10e0945c977d4ff448e43aabe72f5

Apple launched the iPhone Air this week which has some very strong (and not so good) points.  We look at all the angles including the new ‘regular’ iPhones, smartwatch and a gaping hole with Air Pods. There is also news on the government snooping on your encrypted chats and a Revolut challenger is coming to Ireland.Plus, we get some fascinating insights into the global FemTech industry with our guest Tanya Mulcahy, director of the Health Innovation Hub Ireland (HIHI). Check out their website at https://www.hih.ieTech Radio is produced by dustpod.ioListen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

Ireland just made space history with its first satellite successfully completing its mission and de-orbiting as we speak. We find out more about some of the serious science it pulled off including gamma-ray burst detection and advanced satellite control systems that would make NASA jealous. Elsewhere, we discover why Google's latest multi million dollar privacy slap actually matters to you and we dig as far as we can into a spyware story involving the Garda Siochana and an Israeli spy firm. Plus, researchers from Dublin City University, Dawood University in Pakistan, and Munster Technological University are working on an AI content moderation tool designed to protect minors from grooming online. We get the lowdown on Project EdgeAIGuard and the three new agentic LLMs it uses with DCU Project Lead Dr Sunder Ali Khowaja.Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube—----- Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIrelandRSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio