Podcasts about tech life

This week on Tech Life, we're looking at the problems caused by illegal gold mining in Ghana. We'll hear how drones, AI and GPS trackers are being used to tackle the trade.Also this week, Meta goes to court as it battles ads for so-called Nudifying apps. Is "I don't know" the solution to AI chatbot hallucinations ? And the pay-as-you-cook stove that's winning awards and improving health in Africa.We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: A photo of two gold miners in Ghana. Credit: Christian Thompson/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock

We hear from inside China on the remarkably fast electric vehicle transition going on there, as the country moves away from petrol and diesel-powered cars and lorries. BBC Transport Correspondent Nick Marsh reports on the latest EV technology that's making Chinese brands popular and affordable.Also on Tech Life this week, who has the fastest computer in the world ? And what is it used for ? An expert tells us everything we need to know about supercomputers. And we find out about a new piece of tech that can provide electricity, transport and clean drinking water in disaster zones - using solar power.We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: A photo of an electric car charging in China. Credit: Master/Getty Images.

What happens when a company we trust with our most personal data gets into financial trouble ? We hear from a woman who trusted a US company with her genetic information.Also on Tech Life this week, will there be enough electricity for the demands of artificial intelligence ? The International Energy Agency tells us about the challenges of powering the AI boom. And we find out how to grow an island in The Maldives. The tech involved could protect low-lying territories from erosion and rising sea levels.We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: A scientist holds a DNA sample with the results on a computer screen in a laboratory. Credit: Westend61/Getty Images

This week we're looking at a growing digital industry which allows people to interact - in a way - with the likeness or the voice of someone they care about who has passed away. It's not science fiction, and it does involve AI chatbots.Also on Tech Life this week, we'll be finding out about two tech solutions to the problem of food which goes to waste. Tech Life's Alasdair Keane explores the challenge of making a Formula 1 racing car more eco friendly. And what is digital art ?We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Graham Fraser Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica SorianoImage: An illustration of a human hand reaching toward the unknown. Science fiction becoming reality. Credit: Yana Iskayeva/Getty Images

From UX Burnout to 3D Passion: My eBay Hustle, New Mics, and the Quest for Simpler Tech...Alright, so you know how life just gets… complicated? Especially when you're a bit of a geek and love your tech. Well, I've been on this kick lately, trying to strip things back, find some simplicity, especially with this podcasting thing. Used to overcomplicate it, but now? Recording straight to my phone with this new Shure mic – it's just, well, gold.But this quest for simplicity has kinda snowballed. I'm talking a full-on tech purge. I've been listing SO much old gear on eBay – old computers I've clung onto for years, cameras, microphones… you name it. And you won't believe what I discovered about my ancient Canon G7X Mark II! It's like, suddenly a hot commodity.Why all this? Well, partly to clear my head and my space, but also to fund what might be my next big creative leap: diving deep into 3D design and Unreal Engine. Feeling a bit, I don't know, like the UX world is shifting with AI and all that, and maybe it's time to really lean into something new.So, in this episode, I'm just rambling, thinking out loud about all this stuff – my changing relationship with tech, why holding onto skills still matters (hello, calligraphy!), the surprising ease of selling on eBay, and what this all means for the future. Plus, a little cautionary tale about a very angry electric skateboard battery. You know, the usual.If you're a fellow tech enthusiast, creative, or just someone trying to figure out their next move in this crazy world, maybe you'll find some common ground in my musings.Chapter Marks:(0:00) Intro & The Joy of Simple Podcasting(0:57) Why My Phone is My Best Friend (and My Past Tech Struggles)(1:29) Tech Making Us Dumber? AR Glasses & The Future of Skills(3:30) The Great eBay Tech Purge: Decluttering for a New PC(5:33) Why I'm Selling (Almost) Everything(9:13) My Surprising Canon G7X Goldmine & Old Tech Value(11:11) From UX to 3D Design: AI, Career Shifts & New Passions(14:05) Funding My 3D Dream: The eBay Hustle Continues(16:12) The (Almost) Explosive Skateboard Battery Incident(17:16) Navigating eBay & Shipping Surprises(19:52) What This Means for the Podcast & Connecting with Fellow Geeks(20:50) Final Thoughts & Looking Ahead

This week we're learning about patents - what they are, and who wants one. And by analysing the global demand for patents, we can see future trends in tech.Also in this edition of Tech Life, what are doctors and patients around the world saying about the use of artificial intelligence in hospitals ? And we'll be finding out about Google's latest injection of AI into online search.We enjoy reading the messages being sent in about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A photo of a woman with a lightbulb sticker on her forehead, indicating she's had an idea. Credit: Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)

A lot of technology, including some that ultimately makes us “greener,” calls for extractive practices and carries upfront costs. Its use slurps resources. But it also makes us productive and provides essential support for modern lives. Climate writer Stephanie Hanes joins host Clay Collins for a conversation about data centers and rare earths – and about being intentional and aware of the tradeoffs that modern life puts in front of us.

An international study looks at the online experiences of young people from marginalised groups, including sex workers, gay and transgender people, and people living with HIV. It concludes they are facing a surge in online abuse. We speak to Phong from Vietnam about his experience, then hear about the study from the lead researcher.Also on Tech Life this week, find out how a drone company in Ghana has benefited from US foreign aid cuts. And how could catching the bus help improve your posture ?We enjoy reading the messages being sent in about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A photo of a woman who has received online abuse. Credit: OcusFocus/Getty Images)

In today's hyperconnected world, we're constantly scrolling, checking notifications, and juggling multiple digital distractions. But what is the true cost to our mental health and overall wellbeing? In this episode of The Happier Life Project, host Gabby Sanderson is joined by Dr. Anastasia Dedyukhina, a leading global expert in digital wellbeing, two-time TEDx speaker, and bestselling author of Homo Distractus. Once a senior executive in the tech industry, Dr. Dedyukhina made a bold decision: she gave up her smartphone for 1.5 years. The result? A profound transformation in her focus, productivity, and overall quality of life. That experience led her to found Consciously Digital, a global network of over 150 digital wellbeing coaches and the first-ever ICF- and NBHWC-certified digital wellbeing program. Through her work, she's helping people everywhere take control of their relationship with technology. In this enlightening conversation, Gabby and Dr. Anastasia Dedyukhina delve into the profound ways technology is reshaping our behavior and mental health. They explore the hidden impacts of tech addiction and screen overwhelm, offering insights into how we can set healthier boundaries without disconnecting entirely. They also touch on how women, in particular, can be more vulnerable to the emotional toll of technology, from the pressures of curated online lives to the anxiety-fueled habit of doomscrolling that disrupts sleep, focus, and overall wellbeing. In addition, Dr. Anastasia unpacks what digital wellness truly means and shares practical, everyday tips for managing technology mindfully in our fast-paced, always-on world. For anyone feeling the weight of constant connectivity, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to reclaim focus, balance, and wellbeing without completely unplugging from the digital world. To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself Dr. Anastasia Dedyukhina's website: https://www.anastasiadedyukhina.com/ Consciously Digital website: https://www.consciously-digital.com/ To purchase Dr. Anastasia's ‘Homo Distractus' book: https://www.consciously-digital.com/book

Tech Life looks at icebergs. Climate change means there are more of them in our oceans, breaking away and slowly melting. Scientists need to study them - but how ? We speak to an expert about robotic gliders, which are opening up new research opportunities.Also in this edition, can we trust artificial intelligence ? One of its problems is that it hallucinates, so we find out more about it.How can tech help people who are blind or partially sighted watch TV ?And our reporter gets his hands dirty examining rhino poo!You can tell us about the one item of tech that you use in your life everyday – please get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A photograph of a robotic glider suspended above the water. Credit: Doctor Natasha Lucas)

Tech Life looks at satellite navigation and the increase in cases of signal interference. How could this affect shipping and aviation safety, and what can be done about it ?Also in this edition, what digital material of cultural significance should be stored for the future ? A volunteer project is improving Wikipedia's photographs. And we find out about efforts to harness the power of the moon on the Faroe Islands.Tell us about the one bit of tech you use in your life everyday – get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: An image of a Galileo navigation satellite. Credit: BBC)

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Struggles in Spring: Gábor's Easter Odyssey in Budapest Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-03-30-22-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: Budapest tavaszi délutánja pezsgő volt a Váci utcai kávézóban.En: Budapest's spring afternoon was lively at the Váci Street café.Hu: Az ablakokon beáramló friss levegő kellemesen keveredett a kávé illatával.En: The fresh air flowing in through the windows mixed pleasantly with the aroma of coffee.Hu: Gábor, aki harmincas évei elején járó szoftverfejlesztő, egy sarokban ült.En: Gábor, a software developer in his early thirties, sat in a corner.Hu: Egy laptop előtt hajtotta le a fejét, és elmélyülten gépelt.En: He bent over a laptop, typing intently.Hu: Most az volt a célja, hogy a húsvéti hétvégét a családjával tölthesse.En: His goal was to spend the Easter weekend with his family.Hu: Munkáját be kellett fejeznie, hogy meglepetésként hazautazhasson.En: He needed to finish his work so he could travel home as a surprise.Hu: A kávézó azonban zsúfolt volt az utcai húsvéti piac miatt.En: The café, however, was crowded due to the street Easter market.Hu: Kisgyermekek ujjongtak, és az utcáról beáramló turisták csevegtek.En: Children squealed with delight, and tourists flowing in from the street chatted away.Hu: A Wi-Fi is akadozott, hibás kapcsolatot nyújtva.En: The Wi-Fi was also spotty, providing a faulty connection.Hu: Gábor sóhajtott, amikor az internet újra megszakadt.En: Gábor sighed when the internet dropped again.Hu: Ráadásul kollégája, Réka, további munkával terhelte meg.En: Moreover, his colleague, Réka, had burdened him with more work.Hu: Úgy érezte, a nyomás egyre csak nő.En: He felt the pressure was only increasing.Hu: Gábor fontolgatta, hogy máshová megy dolgozni.En: Gábor considered going somewhere else to work.Hu: Talán egy kevésbé forgalmas helyre.En: Perhaps to a less busy place.Hu: Mégis úgy döntött, marad.En: Yet he decided to stay.Hu: A kávézó hangulata inspirálta őt, és nem akarta Rékát sem megbántani.En: The atmosphere of the café inspired him, and he didn't want to upset Réka either.Hu: Egyszer a húsvéti nyúl szobrocskáira pillantott, amelyeket az ablakba tették.En: Once, he glanced at the little Easter bunny figurines placed in the window.Hu: Főnöke kedvesen támogatta őt, így próbálta Rékát is megérteni.En: His boss supported him kindly, so he tried to understand Réka as well.Hu: Szüksége volt némi kreativitásra, hogy a problémákat megoldja.En: He needed some creativity to solve the problems.Hu: Ekkor váratlanul kialudt a villany.En: Then, unexpectedly, the lights went out.Hu: Gábor először magánkívül volt, de hamarosan észrevette, hogy telefonja rendelkezik mobilinternettel.En: Gábor was initially beside himself, but soon he noticed that his phone had mobile internet.Hu: Gyorsan áttekerte a kávézó asztalt, és telefont hotspotként használva visszaállította a munkáját.En: Quickly, he moved the café table around, using his phone as a hotspot to restore his work.Hu: Ez idő alatt meleg welcome screens felváltva érkeztek emailjében.En: During this time, warm welcome screens alternately appeared in his emails.Hu: Megértette Rékával a feladatokat, és együtt dolgozták ki a megoldást.En: He understood the tasks with Réka and worked together to come up with the solution.Hu: A közös munka révén végül sikerült befejezni a projektrészt.En: Through joint effort, they finally managed to complete the project part.Hu: Amikor az utolsó fájlt is elküldte, boldogan lépett ki a kávézóból.En: When he sent the last file, he happily stepped out of the café.Hu: Az esti vonatra ért haza.En: He made it home for the evening train.Hu: A húsvéti vacsoránál már ott ült szerettei körében, mosolyogva.En: At the Easter dinner, he was already seated among his loved ones, smiling.Hu: Gábor megtanulta az önérvényesítés és a munkamagánélet egyensúly fontosságát.En: Gábor learned the importance of self-assertion and work-life balance.Hu: Eldöntötte, hogy a jövőben is időben szünetet tart, és figyel azokra, akik igazán számítanak neki.En: He decided to take breaks on time in the future and pay attention to those who truly matter to him.Hu: A tavaszi Budapest és a családi együttlét varázsa új erőt adott neki.En: The magic of springtime Budapest and family togetherness gave him new strength. Vocabulary Words:lively: pezsgődeveloper: szoftverfejlesztőintently: elmélyültensurprise: meglepetéskéntcrowded: zsúfoltsquealed: ujjongtakfaulty: hibásburdened: terheltepressure: nyomásconsidered: fontolgattaless busy: kevésbé forgalmasupset: megbántanifigurines: szobrocskáksupported: támogattacreativity: kreativitássolve: megoldjaunexpectedly: váratlanulinitially: előszörbeside himself: magánkívülrestore: visszaállítottaalternately: felváltvajoint effort: közös munkamanaged: sikerültwork-life balance: munkamagánélet egyensúlyimportance: fontosságabreaks: szünetetattention: figyeltogetherness: együttlétstrength: erőtmagic: varázsa

What is it like to live with a computer chip in your brain ? Noland Arbaugh became the first person to receive a device from Elon Musk's neurotechnology firm, Neuralink. Noland tells the BBC about his operation to implant the chip, how he can control a computer with his thoughts, and how it has improved his life.Also on Tech Life this week, we explore a crypto solution to an electricity problem in rural Zambia, and look at one attempt to tackle the tricky subject of copyright and AI.Tell us about the one bit of tech you use in your life everyday – get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A photograph of Noland Arbaugh attending a sporting event. Credit: Noland Arbaugh)

This week on Tech Life, we ask why online banking and payment outages happen, and find out what you can do to protect your data and money.The first Saudi Arabian woman to run an international body speaks to us about her life in tech, and her role in charge of the Digital Co-operation Organisation. And if you had to spend a long time on the Moon or Mars, what kind of base would you want to live in ?We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Graham Fraser Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A woman's hand holds a mobile phone. A login window for online banking is on the screen. Credit: Torsten Asmus/Getty Images)

Live trials are under way in Ghana of holoportation 3D telemedicine tech. It allows a patient in a remote location to connect to a doctor many miles away, and be examined. We speak to the lead engineer involved in the project, as well as a patient and a doctor benefiting from the portable kit.Also on Tech Life, what happens when a country's leader decides the names of some places (or stretches of water) are about to change ? Do online maps update ? How is it decided ? Our reporter has been searching for the answers.And what is it like working as a technology correspondent, reporting on the busy and ever-changing North America tech scene ? We chat to Lily Jamali who does exactly that for the BBC.We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Graham Fraser Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: Image of a female doctor communicating with a patient on a portable video link. Credit: Hiraman/Getty Images)

Planet Earth's oceans remain relatively unexplored. Now one company has a bold plan to build habitats for humans to live and work underwater for long spells of time. We hear about the tech challenges of life on the seabed.Also on Tech Life, we speak to a Californian TikTok content creator, and a company benefiting from being on TikTok, as the future of the video-sharing platform in the United States remains uncertain. And who needs big crowds and long queues ? Is the future of gaming expos virtual ? We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: An illustration of an underwater human habitat known as a Sentinel. Credit: Deep.)

Artificial intelligence can pick out the words we're typing from analysis of our brainwaves. Could it give a voice to those who can't speak because of brain injury or illness ? We interview an expert leading the research.Also on this week's edition of Tech Life, will AI and 3D printing revolutionise the shoe business ? And the hot and cold solution to keep fish fresh in Kenya.We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A photo of a female volunteer typing words onto a keyboard while her brain is being scanned. Credit: Meta)

In this episode, I am honored to sit down and speak with author and speaker Carlos Whittaker to chat about his latest book, Reconnected, and his eye-opening 7-week experiment living in a monk community—completely off screens. We dive deep into what he learned about solitude, slowing down + savoring, being present, and finding true connection (and balance) in a digital world, but also shares so many quick and practical takeaways that he's implemented since this experiment. As we kick off a new year filled with resolutions and the pressure to “do it all,” this conversation is such a timely reminder to prioritize intentionality, step away from the noise, and embrace a simpler way of living + connecting with our family.  Links from this episode: Carlos on Instagram Order ‘Reconnected: How 7 Screen-Free Weeks with Monks and Amish Farmers Helped Me Recover the Lost Art of Being Human (his newest book that launched Fall 2024) The Carlos Whittaker Podcast Carlos' Website Desirae on Instagram Minimal-ish Podcast Website More episodes on less screens: Ep 261: Minimalism Story: Smart Phone to Flip Phone with Abby Brennan Ep 235: A Life More Engaging Than The Algorithm - Living a Low(er) Tech Life with Erin Loechner Ep 205: Change Your Relationship with Your Phone and Connect More with Your People with Joey Odom Ep 191: Unplugging: Digital Minimalism, screen-free activities, prioritizing in-person community, and modeling phone habits with Claudia Erickson Sponsors: Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box PLUS get a free item in every box for life. Go to hungryroot.com/minimalish or use code minimalish. Calm: Get 40% off your premium subscription at calm.com/minimalish Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It sounds like a Hollywood movie - bringing extinct animals like the dodo back to life - but a company has attracted hundreds of millions of dollars of investment to do just that. We hear the arguments for and against de-extinction technology.Also on Tech Life this week - losing the alcohol but keeping the taste....our reporter takes a sober dive into the tech behind alcohol-free beer.We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: An illustration of a dodo bird. Credit: DeAgostini Picture Library/Getty Images)

In this edition we're trying to find out why some popular security and privacy services - known as VPNs - are disappearing from app stores in India.Also on this week's Tech Life, we speak to the team behind a super-lightweight plane, powered by the sun's rays, that could be used like a steerable satellite.And does talk of artificial intelligence make you worried about your job, or make you wonder what the future might hold ? Don't worry, it's not all gloom ! We hear from a historian who is taking a very long view of AI.We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: An illustration of Internet access via a VPN. A shield with the inscription VPN and a globe. Credit: Getty Images)

In this edition we discuss ways of checking facts on social media. This is after Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg announced Facebook and Instagram will change the way facts are checked.Also in Tech Life, data is being saved for the future, deep underground in the Arctic Circle. Our reporter Adrienne Murray visits the Arctic World Archive in Svalbard. LinkedIn tell us how they are verifying their users are real. And find out why online mapping has become more than getting from A to B.We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@bbc.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp at +44 330 1230 320.Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones Producer: Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A photo image of Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg. Credit: Getty Images)

Today on the podcast, we're diving into another Minimalism Story with special guest Abby Brennan. Abby is a mom of two, wife, writer, and project manager who has embraced simplicity and sustainability in both her home and digital experiences. She talks about her transition from smartphone to flip phone and the impact of reducing screen time on her creativity and family life. If starting or continuing to pursue minimalism is on your list for 2025, or you've just been curious about a simpler + more intentional life with less screens, this episode is for you. Links from this episode: Abby on Instagram Abby's Website Desirae on Instagram Minimal-ish Podcast Website More Episodes on Screen Time: Ep 235: A Life More Engaging Than The Algorithm - Living a Low(er) Tech Life with Erin Loechner Ep 191: Unplugging: Digital Minimalism, screen-free activities, prioritizing in-person community, and modeling phone habits with Claudia Erickson More Minimalism Stories: Ep 252: Minimalism Stories with Sami Townsend Ep 220: Minimalism Stories with Jordan Jones Ep 201: Minimalism Stories - From Extreme Minimalism (+ tiny house living) to Minimal-ish with Korie Veidel Ep 192: Minimalism Stories with Leah Franklin  Sponsors: Calm - Stress less, sleep more, and live better with Calm. For listeners of our show, Calm is offering 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at calm.com/MINIMALISH. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tech Life is at CES in Las Vegas, one of the world's biggest consumer tech shows. We hunt for some of the event's weirdest tech, and speak to the people behind the showcase. Plus, why is the tech world now obsessed with cars? We love hearing from you. Get in touch by emailing us on techlife@bbc.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +443301230320. Presented and produced by Imran Rahman-Jones, Alasdair Keane and Lily Jamali Edited by Monica Soriano(Image: The neon "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign lit up against a blue sky. Credit: Getty Images.)

Want to know what's in store for the tech world in 2025? Tech Life has got you covered. From AI to cybersecurity, gaming and crypto and beyond, we bring you our predictions for the next 12 months. And we're not alone. We're calling on the help of friends of the show and experts around the world – with some familiar voices for regular Tech Life listeners.

Scams, supporting the elderly (who are particularly vulnerable to scams), and how long you should keep devices are all covered in Nightlife.

From the innovations that flourished to those that flopped, from providing virtual boyfriends to taking very real jobs, we look back an another fascinating twelve months in tech – and hear from reporters, experts and listeners about which tech most changed your lives in 2024.(Image: a montage of text message like speech boxes on a background of what looks like code. Copyright: Getty Images).

Robot security dogs have been spotted at Mar-A-Lago, the Florida home of US president-elect Donald Trump. Who are behind them, and what security services do they offer? Also on the programme, we hear about one phone company's plan to waste phone scammers' time. And the startup using AI to provide loans to people without a credit history. We love hearing from you on Tech Life. Get in touch by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or sending us a Whatsapp on +44330 1230 320. Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A picture of a Boston Dynamics dog, “Spot”. Credit: Reuters.)

We hear from a former moderator in Kenya who was left traumatised by his previous job. And we ask what video games could do to be more accessible to blind people. Plus – the radar tech used to help with online mapping. Warning: This episode includes a description of child sexual abuse.We love hearing from you on Tech Life. You can email us at techlife@bbc.co.uk or Whatsapp us on +44330 1230 320.Presenter: Graham Fraser Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: A man in glasses looking at a screen, with writing digitally imposed in front of his face. Credit: Getty Images.)

Send us a textIn today's digital age, our online presence has become an extension of our real-life identity, and our digital footprint is much bigger than we might realize. Stephanie Humphrey, popularly known as “Tech Life Steph,” joins me on the podcast as we unpack the importance of managing your virtual persona, from the perils of cyberbullying to the power of personal branding. This week, episode 234 of the Tech Intersect™ Podcast is about maintaining your digital footprint!POWERED BY DIGITALMONEYDEMYSTIFIED.COM – Your trusted guide to separate crypto fact from fiction. Buy now, wherever books are sold and on Amazon.Stephanie Humphrey, “Tech Life Steph,” is the author of the book Don't Let Your Digital Footprint Kick You in the Butt as well as a signature seminar, Til Death Do You Tweet. In addition to those already impressive accomplishments, she's an esteemed technology contributor to major platforms, including Good Morning America. With her knack for making tech relatable, Steph brings the digital divide across various media, being the go-to voice for breaking down the latest in technology. Topics Stephanie and I cover in this episode include:Stephanie's book “Don't LeUnlock the key to 10x the value of your legal practice in Web3 with our exclusive Advantage EVANS FinTech Academy training series—only 20 seats available! Start separating crypto fact from fiction today. Get your copy of , Digital Money Demystified, and start learning so you can earn safely, legally and confidently. https://digitalmoneydemystified.comBuzzsprout - Let's launch your podcast!Start for FREELearn to Trade Like a Pro!Unlock the secrets of profitable trading and start your journey to financial freedom today!Elevate your digital sales game quickly!Join the Social Sales Lab and master the art of social selling to skyrocket your business success. Streamline Online Sales with ThriveCartGet your lifetime account and enhance your e-commerce experience with powerful, user-friendly tools.Maximize your website's potentialSecure a lifetime deal at ConvertBox and turn your site visitors into loyal customers effortlessly.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Regulate & The Rabbit Hole by Notty Prod licensed via Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. Produced by Tonya M. Evans for Advantage Evans, LLC

Tech Life created a fake podcast using a new AI tool from Google Labs, and we spoke to the head of the tool, Steven Johnson. Don't worry – this programme is still brought to you by real human beings! We also look into how deepfakes have been used in the US. Plus – have we unveiled the real inventor of Bitcoin? (Spoiler – no.)We love hearing from you. Email us on techlife@bbc.co.uk or send a WhatsApp on +44 330 123 0320.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: An AI-generated head with letters coming out of its mouth. Credit: Getty Images.)

This week we're looking at artificial intelligence in the workplace - how are employers and employees using it ? An international survey provides some answers.Also on Tech Life:We bring you a technological solution to the problem of litter being left behind by climbers on Mount Everest. Electric car manufacturers are rated on their human rights policies.And find out how you can heat your home - with electric wallpaper.Presenter: Graham Fraser Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: An abstract futuristic representation of the letters "AI". Credit: Getty Images)Contact us: Tech Life would love to hear your stories, ideas and views about the programme. You can email us at techlife@bbc.co.uk or contact us via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 0320.

Does the tech you use depend too much on a few critical minerals ? When a hurricane temporarily disrupted mining in the small town of Spruce Pine, the tech world was concerned. We find out why the location, in North Carolina, USA, is so important, and discover where a range of rare manufacturing materials can be found across the globe. Are they critical links in a supply chain that can be broken by natural disasters or political decisions ?Also on Tech Life this week:An AI tool designed to protect athletes from online abuse during the Olympics - how well did it perform ? And what tech does an explorer take into the jungle ?Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: An image of a human hand holding pure quartz crystals. Credit: Getty Images)

Tech Life is looking at big data - and how important it is to healthcare. Specifically, how it can help women's health. A femtech company in the United States is using monthly menstrual and hormone data gathered from thousands of women to gain new insights into the symptoms which lead-up to the menopause - the time in their lives when women's periods stop. We speak to the company's co-founder and CEO.Also on Tech Life this week: A global survey weighs up the influence of social media and AI on accurate news and information. And, are chatbots changing the way we search for information online ?Presenter: Zoe Kleinman Producers: Imran Rahman-Jones and Tom Quinn(Photo: A woman checks a health app on her smartphone. Credit: Getty Images)

It's the ongoing question about AI – will it replace jobs or create new ones? We look at the argument from the point of view of call centre workers in the Philippines. Also on the programme, how Google Maps is tracking the changes in the built environment around the world. Plus – the small European city home to some of the most important music tech in the world.Get in touch with Tech Life by emailing techlife@bbc.co.uk or sending us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320. Presenter: Chris Vallance Producers: Tom Quinn and Imran Rahman-Jones Editor: Monica Soriano(Image: An animation of a robot wearing a headset and microphone. Credit: Getty Images)

Tech Life speaks to some keen users of X in Brazil. What do they think of the ban imposed on the platform that was previously known as Twitter ? Have they moved to other social media, or have they found a way around the restrictions ?Also on Tech Life this week:We find out three things you should know about quantum mechanics. Why is it more difficult for big trucks to make the move from fossil fuels to cleaner electric power ? And AI in construction tech - we speak to the founder of a company harnessing artificial intelligence to help make sense of huge amounts of building industry paperwork.Presenter: Alasdair Keane Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: The Brazilian flag is seen behind a phone screen displaying the X logo in this illustration photo. Credit: NurPhoto/Getty Images)

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: How a Mistyped Email Sparked a Cultural Revolution at Work Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/how-a-mistyped-email-sparked-a-cultural-revolution-at-work Story Transcript:He: בבוקר קייצי בעיר הייטק מרתיעה ומוזהרת, ישבה יעל במשרדה בגורד השחקים הזכוכיתי.En: On a summer morning in a daunting and warned high-tech city, Yael sat in her glass skyscraper office.He: השמש יוקדת בחוץ ויעל חיפשה קצת קרירות והקלה בעבודה השגרתית.En: The sun blazed outside, and Yael sought some coolness and relief in her routine work.He: היא הייתה מפתחת תוכנה מנוסה עם אהבה להומור ותרגילים קלים.En: She was an experienced software developer with a love for humor and simple exercises.He: החיים בעיר היו מהירים והעבודה הייתה אינטנסיבית במיוחד עם כלל הדיונים והמפגשים.En: Life in the city was fast, and work was particularly intense with all the meetings and discussions.He: היא רצתה קצת להאיר את האווירה ולהביא חיוך לחברותיה בעבודה.En: She wanted to lighten the mood a bit and bring a smile to her colleagues at work.He: יעל הכינה תמונה משעשעת על נהלי הישיבות של החברה ושלחה אותה לחברות הקרובות שלה במייל.En: Yael prepared an amusing image about the company's meeting procedures and sent it to her close friends via email.He: אבל, לרגע של פזיזות בשל החום הכבד, יעל לחצה על הכפתור הלא נכון.En: However, in a moment of impulsiveness due to the heavy heat, Yael pressed the wrong button.He: במקום לשלוח לחברות, המייל נשלח לכל החברה, כולל למנכ"ל.En: Instead of sending it to her friends, the email was sent to the entire company, including the CEO.He: הלחץ פקד אותה כשקלטה את מעשיה.En: Panic hit her when she realized what she had done.He: לוי, עמיתה הצמוד, הביט בה מופתע - דבר שלא קורה הרבה, כי הוא תמיד היה רציני ומסודר.En: Levi, her close colleague, looked at her surprised—something that didn't happen often, as he was always serious and organized.He: “מה עשית, יעל?” שאל בקול שקט, עם נצנוץ קל בעיניים שהראה את החיבה שלו להומור.En: “What did you do, Yael?” he asked quietly, with a slight twinkle in his eyes showing his fondness for humor.He: יעל חשבה להתנצל ולשלוח מייל הסבר, אבל הרגישה שהיא רוצה משהו אחר.En: Yael thought about apologizing and sending an explanatory email, but she felt she wanted something different.He: היא החליטה לקבל את הטעות ולראות מה יקרה.En: She decided to embrace the mistake and see what would happen.He: בצהריים התקיימה פגישה כללית בהובלת המנכ"ל.En: At noon, a general meeting led by the CEO took place.He: כולם חיכו בדריכות.En: Everyone waited expectantly.He: המנכ"ל חייך והפתיע את כולם כשאמר, "יעל הפכה לנו את הבוקר.En: The CEO smiled and surprised everyone by saying, "Yael turned our morning around.He: המם שלה העלה חיוכים בכל הקומות, ואנחנו צריכים יותר מזה.En: Her meme brought smiles to all the floors, and we need more of that.He: אני חושב על 'חמישי יצירתי', עמי מסר מגיע גם ללב במקום ומלהיב את הנפש."En: I'm thinking about a 'Creative Thursday,' where we can bring messages that reach the heart and excite the soul."He: יעל לא האמינה, אבל המם הקטן שלה הפך למנוף לשינוי תרבותי.En: Yael couldn't believe it, but her little meme became a catalyst for cultural change.He: במקום משמעת ותפקוד מתוח, נכנסו רגעי הומור ובדיחות קלות לישיבות.En: Instead of discipline and tense performance, humor and light jokes entered the meetings.He: אביבה, מנהלת משאבי האנוש הנלהבת, החלה לארגן קטעי "הפסקות הומור", בהן כולם הוזמנו לשתף מצגות משעשעות או סיפורים קלילים.En: Aviva, the enthusiastic HR manager, began organizing "Humor Breaks," where everyone was invited to share amusing presentations or light stories.He: בסוף היום, יעל נשארה עם הרגשה טובה.En: By the end of the day, Yael was left with a good feeling.He: היא הבינה שלהעז ולנסות משהו חדש, גם אם זה קצת מסוכן, יכול להוביל לשינויים חיוביים.En: She realized that daring to try something new, even if a bit risky, could lead to positive changes.He: החברה השתחררה קצת, והיא הרגישה סוף סוף בנוח להראות את הצד המשעשע שלה בעבודה.En: The company loosened up a bit, and she finally felt comfortable showing her humorous side at work.He: העיר ההייטק הגדולה נהייתה קצת יותר קלה לחיים, במיוחד עם ההתמודדויות היומיות.En: The big high-tech city became a little easier to live in, especially with the daily challenges. Vocabulary Words:daunting: מרתיעהrelief: הקלהroutine: שגרתיתimpulsiveness: פזיזותcatalyst: מנוףdiscipline: משמעתcultural: תרבותיloosened: השתחררהenthusiastic: הנלהבתmeme: המםsurprised: הפתיעexplanatory: הסברfondness: חיבהexpectantly: בדריכותnourishing: מלהיבblazed: יוקדתinstructions: נהליcolleague: עמיתapologizing: להתנצלcreative: יצירתיhumor: הומורpresents: מצגותorganizing: החלה לארגןintense: אינטנסיביתmeetings: מפגשיםdiscussion: דיוניםsmile: חיוךpanicked: הלחץ פקדembolden: לעזchallenge: התמודדויותBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

We hear from two voice over artists, based in New York City, who have filed a lawsuit against an AI company they claim stole their voices.Also on Tech Life this week:A device invented by Canadian university students is shaking up the milk business for small-scale dairy farmers in Africa. And an engineer tells us his robust plan to make tech easier to fix.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: An actress records her voice into a microphone. Credit: Andrey Popov/Getty Images)

What if the solutions are the problem?Life is made beautiful by the myriad possibilities that evolve—spontaneously—from interactions in the world. A look shared between strangers, a joke passed from customer to barista, a story swapped, a birdsong heard. But these possibilities are diminishing with every tech substitution for interaction. Tech gets in the way. I'm joined by journalist and founder of Low Tech Magazine, Kris De Decker, to discuss the difference between high tech and low tech; the zealous and unfounded faith in tech crippling our climate decisions; the relationship between tech, finance, economies and state control; and how a low tech lifestyle is liberating. This is a beautiful conversation with someone really walking the walk when it comes to sustainability—and reaping the rewards.Planet: Critical is 100% independent and community-powered. If you value it, and have the means, become a paid subscriber today!References: Brett Scott and Altered States of Monetary Consciousness: Get full access to Planet: Critical at www.planetcritical.com/subscribe

It's called Pig Butchering - a cruel romance scam which has victims around the world. The BBC's Cyber correspondent, Joe Tidy, was targeted online. He played along to learn about the con and then turned the tables on the scammer, known as Jessica. Joe tells us what happened. Also on Tech Life, we find out about a digital detox. And we hear about the role played by artificial intelligence in discovering an important new antibiotic.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producers: Imran Rahman-Jones and Tom Quinn Editor: Monica Soriano(Photo: A red paper cut-out of a heart shape, torn in the middle, resting on a computer keyboard. Credit: Pla2na/Getty Images)

slow tech podcast is listener-supported. Consider becoming a paid subscriber.Jose Briones discusses his journey into minimal tech, experiences with the Light Phone 2 and his book 'Low Tech Life'. He emphasizes the importance of aligning technology with one's desired lifestyle and finding devices that complement that lifestyle. Jose also talks about his work in building community and creating content around the concept of moving offline. He shares his philosophy of embracing impermanence and living life as it comes. Join his substack, Moving Offline.Chapters00:00 Intro03:24 Building a Low Tech Lifestyle07:58 Aligning Devices with Desired Lifestyle12:37 Meaningful Relationships and Communication16:32 Creating Content and Building Community25:16 Considering the Light Phone 327:09 Closing and Where to Find MoreIntro music by Christopher BearSlow Tech is created by Adam Yasmin Get full access to slow tech podcast at slowtechpod.substack.com/subscribe

As Japan axes the use of floppy discs for official government business, presenter Chris Vallance looks at other old tech that's still in use. From magnetic tape to a clockwork interplanetary rover, he discovers some vintage tech with a future. Also in this edition of Tech Life, we test an app that uses artificial intelligence to identify objects and tells us how to recycle them. And we speak to an expert conserving rhinos in South Africa with the help of nuclear technology.Presenter: Chris Vallance Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: A hand loads a floppy disc into a disc drive. Credit: Stockbyte/Getty Images)

In this week's tailgate we are discussing the official beginning of the partnership with Adidas and our thoughts on the role out on July 1st (2:59). We also give our thoughts on the brand new football uniforms that were revealed on the 1st, the leak that broke the night before, and the gear we wish Adidas had available. The Big 12 preseason polls and teams are out so we discuss where TTU sits here in July (23:40), we discuss the CFB 25 rankings, and Texas Tech basketball conference matchups before hitting our final shots (44:24). Then we head back to Westeros for Dragon Talks for episode 3 "The Burning Mill. where we discuss the latest episode of the season, winners & losers from the episode, then we make our Big 12 Character comp for King Aegon. (51:28)

Experts develop a new blood test that could change the way suspected cases of bowel cancer are managed. At the heart of it is A.I. analysis to calculate a patient's cancer risk. We speak to the team behind the PinPoint Test. Also on Tech Life this week, period trackers and your personal data - find out how one app is promising to keep your information safe. Drones are being used to make childbirth safer in Rwanda. And listen to the aerospace students who have developed a new way to move satellites around in space.Presenter: Shiona McCallum Producer: Tom Quinn(Image: A photo of a lab technician holding a blood sample. Credit: Jacob Wackerhausen/Getty Images)

Presenter Shiona McCallum is joined by technology reporter Paul Carter to look at some of the latest developments in artificial limb tech. Paul talks about his own personal experiences of trying out different prosthetics. Shiona interviews the youngest boy in the world to be fitted with a bionic arm, and his mum. Sierra Leone benefits from a prosthetics project. And would you want an extra robotic thumb ?Presenters: Shiona McCallum with Paul Carter Producer: Tom Quinn(Image: A photo of presenter Shiona McCallum in the Tech Life studio with technology reporter Paul Carter. Credit: BBC)

Lab testing of animals is often used to study diseases, or assess the safety of new drugs or substances before they are trialled on humans. Could A.I. provide a solution ? Also in this edition of Tech Life, woof woof! Can artificial intelligence help us interpret the meaning of dog barks ? And Michael Kaloki reports from Kenya on tech being used by dairy farmers to help them look after their herds.Presenter: Shiona McCallum Producer: Tom Quinn(Image: Portrait photo of a beagle dog. Credit: Getty Images)

In today's episode, I interview Erin Loechner, author of 'The Opt Out Family,' about her journey from being an influencer to living a low-tech lifestyle. We discuss the challenges of social media, the power of the algorithm, and the importance of being more engaged in our real life. Erin shares her insights on how to make the shift to a low-tech lifestyle, and we talk about getting intentional with the role technology plays in our life. Erin encourages us to be more engaging than the algorithm and shares examples of how her family lives a low-tech lifestyle. Conversations on technology and social media are always important ones to have because there is no playbook on how to do this well - we have to make those decisions for ourselves. I love that Erin gives us another perspective along with a ton of resources on this topic. Links: The Opt Out Family Website Preorder The Opt Out Family (June 12th is the release date) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are words of warning about facial recognition, biometrics and artificial intelligence - technologies increasingly being adopted by law enforcement worldwide. Also on Tech Life this week, we learn about an African company offering a local alternative to the big electric vehicle manufacturers. Basketball gets into tech. And why we need tech to identify and map where our rubbish goes.Presenter: Shiona McCallum Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: An illustration of facial recognition on the face of a woman. Credit: Francesco Carta fotografo/Getty Images)

Blood tests are part of the process of receiving cancer treatment. But they can be time-consuming and require visits to hospital. A new blood test machine is changing this. The Liberty is a small device that allows patients to take blood tests and upload the results from home without supervision. Lynn Thompson took part in the trial, and she tells Tech Life it's made a huge difference to her life. Also this week, we answer a listener's question about smart glasses. We learn about a project, involving electrolysers and hydrogen cooking stoves, which could improve the health of villagers in rural Nepal. And cutting down on e-waste - we speak to Tech for Troops.Presenter: Shiona McCallum Producer: Tom Quinn(Photo: A still photo of Lynn Thompson with the Liberty blood test device. Credit: BBC)

What kind of tech do you need if you want to be a fulltime Van Lifer? Plus in response to the EU's DMA, Apple will allow alternative app stores for the iPhone and iPad. And Google announced Lumiere on Tuesday, an AI video generator it's calling “a space-time diffusion model for realistic video generation”.Starring Sarah Lane, Robb Dunewood, Kevin Pereira, Roger Chang, Joe.Link to the Show Notes. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/dtns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.