NPI Tech Guys

In this episode, we explore the latest updates in the tech world, starting with Instagram’s new feature that allows users to add a musical touch to their profiles, evoking a nostalgic MySpace vibe. Shifting gears, we tackle the growing trend of businesses adding credit card surcharges and what this might mean for the future of credit card usage, cash transactions; including the recent decision by eBay to drop American Express as a payment option.

In this episode, we dive into the growing threat of phishing links, which are now more dangerous than email attachments, and explore the best strategies for securing your inbox. Sam highlights IronScales, touted as a leader in email security solution, and we weigh the pros and cons of traditional email versus real-time communication tools like Slack and other messaging platforms. Tune in to learn how to keep your digital communications safe and efficient.

In this episode, we delve into Google's historic loss in a landmark antitrust lawsuit over its search dominance, discuss the impact of Cisco's second major round of layoffs this year, and hear from Sam as he explores how Chat GPT 4 Turbo can aid visually impaired individuals using wheelchairs by detecting nearby obstacles with specialized devices. Tune in for a blend of tech industry upheavals and innovative solutions!

In this episode, we explore the fascinating differences between how humans and computers handle multitasking, dive into the implications of actors licensing AI voice clones under a new union deal, and share essential cybersecurity tips from NetworkProvidersInc.com with a Top 10 list to keep your mobile phone secure. Tune in for insights on the intersection of technology and everyday life!

In this episode, we explore the future of in-home robotics and major tech industry shifts. Elon Musk announces Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot, set to hit the market in 2026, potentially becoming the first of its kind available to consumers. Apple Maps takes on Google Maps with a new public beta accessible directly from your browser, aiming to expand its user base. Meanwhile, Kaspersky exits the U.S. market, laying off dozens of employees following a government ban on its software due to security concerns. Tune in as we delve into these groundbreaking stories and their implications.

In this episode, we dive into the tech world's latest shake-ups and innovations. Intel announces a significant restructuring, with plans to lay off 15,000 employees amid a challenging market. Meanwhile, Cloudflare introduces a new speed test tool, promising users even faster and more accurate internet performance metrics. In a bold move to challenge Google's dominance, OpenAI is set to release SearchGPT, a new search engine leveraging advanced AI to redefine how we explore the web. Join us as we unpack these developments and their potential impact on the industry.

In this episode, we delve into "The Silent Epidemic Eating Away American Minds", exploring the alarming rise of screen addiction and its profound impact on mental health, particularly in children and teens. Through the story of Billy, a young boy whose behavior improved after a screen fast, we illustrate the dangers of excessive screen time, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism-like symptoms. We discuss how over-stimulating cartoons contribute to attention deficits and anxiety, and ponder the curious absence of phones in our dreams. Tune in as we also touch on Sam's experience with air pods and more!

Explore the latest in tech and space in our new episode, where we discuss Google's decision to roll back its AI search feature to reduce errors, and dive into the challenges of regulating audio deepfakes with insights from ElevenLabs' CEO. We also uncover the significance of digital audio watermarking in combating AI misuse. Plus, get the scoop on NASA's $843 million mission with SpaceX to decommission the ISS by 2030 and learn about the new Starlink Mini, designed to bring high-speed internet to the most remote locations. Tune in for these stories and more!

We explore a groundbreaking study by Dr. Robert Epstein and the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology, revealing how tech companies can influence undecided voters through search suggestions, potentially shifting election outcomes without detection. We also examine the live chat software market's growth, expected to reach $1.7 billion by 2030, driven by its benefits over traditional customer support and increased adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, we discuss the rise of passwordless authentication, a market projected to hit $54.27 billion by 2031, thanks to advancements in biometrics, AI, and machine learning, promising a future with enhanced security and user experience.

In this episode we delve into the upcoming changes to Venmo's transaction fees, effective July 1, 2024, and how they will impact users receiving payments for goods and services. We also discuss Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's urgent call for warning labels on social media apps to protect children, and the latest push by US lawmakers to ban TikTok. Stay informed on these critical updates in the digital world!

A.I. Systems Mark a New Era for Smartphones: Join us as we explore the radical changes Apple and Google are bringing to their smartphones with artificial intelligence. We share insights on the upcoming iOS 18 and Android updates. Discover the new AI-driven features like an enhanced Siri, image generation, web article summaries, and smart responses to messages and emails. We'll also discuss the significant upgrade in text messaging standards that will improve communication between iPhone and Android users.SpaceX's Starlink Revolution: SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space technology with the launch of 20 Starlink satellites, including 13 equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities. we report on how these satellites will provide seamless access to text, voice, and data for LTE phones worldwide. We'll delve into the details of this launch and what it means for global connectivity.

In this exciting episode, we dive into the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on music creation. Discover how AI is transforming the music industry, from composing underscores to generating hit songs. Later in the episode, join us for a hilarious and innovative brainstorming session as Sam unveils his quirky new idea on an Alarm clock with a surprise!

We explore the rapidly changing landscape of ad-free streaming. Once a haven from commercials, streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video have begun integrating ads, making it harder than ever to avoid interruptions. We'll delve into how this shift impacts viewer experience and subscription costs. Additionally, we'll discuss the explosive growth of the connected cars market, projected to soar from $63.03 billion in 2019 to $225.16 billion by 2027. Finally, we'll touch on groundbreaking advancements in touchscreen technology from Northwestern University, where engineers have developed screens that allow users to feel textures, transforming how we interact with our devices. Join us for a deep dive into these pivotal tech trends shaping our future.

In this episode, we dive into T-Mobile's recent $4.4 billion acquisition of US Cellular's wireless operations and spectrum assets, a strategic move that brings in an additional 4 million customers and strengthens T-Mobile's market position. We'll explore the details of the deal, including the new master license agreement for over 2,000 towers and the extended lease terms for around 600 existing towers. Additionally, we'll discuss the evolving role of leadership in the age of AI, featuring insights from David Streitfeld and Vinay Menon of Korn Ferry. Menon emphasizes that while AI can enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the need for strong leadership remains crucial. Join us for a comprehensive analysis of these significant developments in the tech and business world.

Apple is set to revolutionize Siri, its iconic virtual assistant, with an ambitious generative A.I. upgrade, marking the most significant restructuring the tech giant has undertaken in over a decade. This decision was spurred by Apple's top software executives, Craig Federighi and John Giannandrea, who, after experiencing the capabilities of OpenAI's ChatGPT, recognized Siri's limitations in comparison. ChatGPT's ability to handle continuous conversations and complex tasks highlighted Siri's outdated one-question-at-a-time format, which often led to misunderstandings. This realization prompted a major shift towards integrating generative A.I., positioning Apple to maintain its competitive edge in the evolving tech landscape. The upcoming developers conference on June 10 is expected to showcase an enhanced Siri that can engage in more dynamic and versatile conversations, backed by a generative A.I. system designed to be private and efficient by processing data directly on iPhones.Amidst rising competition and the potential threat of A.I. technology supplanting traditional operating systems, Apple is focusing not only on upgrading Siri but also on broader A.I. applications across its suite of products. This includes enhancing iPhone memory capabilities and possibly incorporating A.I. models from other tech giants to bolster Siri’s functionality. Apple's approach aims to keep the user experience seamless and private, avoiding the cloud-based processing costs that competitors face. However, this strategy comes with its own set of challenges, such as the risk of increased errors in smaller, device-based A.I. systems. Despite these hurdles, Apple's shift reflects a critical pivot in its long-term strategy, moving from hardware-centric innovations to sophisticated A.I. integrations, hoping to redefine user interaction with technology.

   This episode of our podcast delves into the urgent joint cybersecurity advisory issued by the FBI, alongside the U.S. Department of State and the National Security Agency, highlighting a serious threat posed by North Korean-backed hackers. Known as Kimsuky, these hackers are impersonating trusted individuals and organizations through sophisticated email spoofing to gain geopolitical insights and influence. We explore their tactics, the implications for national security, and the protective measures recommended for email users. Additionally, the episode shifts focus to personal cybersecurity with essential tips for safe online shopping, especially relevant with Mother’s Day approaching. We discuss how to avoid common scams, the safest payment methods to protect your financial information, and best practices to ensure a secure online shopping experience. This blend of national security concerns and personal cybersecurity guidance provides a comprehensive look at the current digital threat landscape and practical steps to safeguard against it.

   In this episode, we delve into Microsoft's groundbreaking move into smaller AI systems, challenging the industry's obsession with size. From the Phi-3 series to the impact on accessibility and affordability, we explore how these innovations are reshaping AI applications across industries. Additionally, we discuss the alarming FBI report on the $3.4 billion lost to scams by Americans over 60 in 2023, and how AI could combat such threats. Stay tuned for insights on top note-taking apps and a recommendation for LessAnnoyingCRM.com.

   Join us on [Podcast Name] as we delve into the latest developments in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. From surprising legislative mandates to tech glitches and crash rate concerns, we've got you covered.   We discuss the push to include AM radios in cars, Apple's efforts to fix glitchy iPhone alarms, and the higher crash rates of EVs, particularly Teslas, and the factors contributing to this trend. Discover the complexities of the EV revolution and gain valuable insights for navigating its challenges. Tune in now to stay informed.

   In this episode the TWR Team delves into the serious repercussions of the February cyberattack on UnitedHealth's subsidiary, Change Healthcare. An alarming amount of personal and health data from a significant portion of Americans was compromised. UnitedHealth has disclosed paying a ransom to protect this sensitive data, although the exact amount remains undisclosed. The episode also features a discussion on "juice-jacking," a decade-old security threat involving public phone charging stations that hackers exploit to install malware or steal data. We discuss some essential tips on how to avoid malware, emphasizing the use of power outlets over USB ports, and the benefits of wireless charging and charge-only cables to ensure security while traveling.

   In this episode of the podcast, we delve into two significant topics. First, we explore how Canva.com becomes an indispensable tool for on-the-road emergencies, as Sam demonstrates the swift process of sharing and editing designs through Canva's user-friendly platform. We cover the steps to grant edit access via a collaboration link, allowing anyone with the link to modify the design without needing a Canva account, particularly handy for mobile users who will need to log in. Secondly, we discuss a major development in digital policy as Cecilia Kang reports on the FCC's decision to reinstate Net Neutrality rules. The commissioners voted along party lines to treat broadband as a utility-like service, echoing regulations previously set under Obama and later dismantled under Trump. This episode provides insights into both collaborative digital tools and significant regulatory changes in telecommunications.