In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam and Jay dive into the growing trend of AI middleware platforms like 1min.ai, which offer lifetime access to multiple large language models through a single dashboard. They explore whether this model is sustainable or just another “too good to be true” flash in the pan, and speculate about a future where users interact with AI through unified task-based interfaces that automatically select the best model for the job.

The conversation shifts to Windows 11’s newest features and bugs; including a controversial AI-powered Quick Machine Recovery, a puzzling GPU-eject prompt, and the sudden disabling of the emoji search function in Windows 10. Microsoft’s continuing efforts to push admin automation and uninstall restrictions come under fire as Jay and Sam discuss user control, sandboxing failures, and security trade-offs.

Finally, the hosts highlight major security mishaps, from a critical Chrome vulnerability affecting multiple browsers to McDonald’s AI-based job applicant data breach impacting over 64 million users. Add in a Call of Duty hack through the Microsoft Store and it’s clear: trust in tech ecosystems is being tested on every front.

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam and Jay unpack the jaw-dropping news of Japan’s new internet speed record: 1.02 Petabytes per second - roughly 350,000 times faster than the average U.S. connection. They explore what this milestone means for future real-world use and discuss the diminishing returns of ultra-high bandwidth, especially in talk radio streaming and software design. From audio compression standards to bloated printer drivers, they reflect on how optimization often gets sacrificed as speed increases.

Next, the duo dives into the surprising resurgence of retro computing with a modernized Commodore 64 remake. They debate whether this low-tech-high-tech device is more than nostalgia, potentially paving the way for ultra-affordable, highly capable computing. The conversation rounds out with news that OpenAI is preparing to launch its own AI-powered web browser, built on Chromium, and what that could mean for Google, the future of browsing, and the rise of paid browser ecosystems. They wrap up with a look at Linux’s growing U.S. desktop market share, driven in part by Raspberry Pi adoption and Windows 11 resistance.

Sam and Jay explore how AI is reshaping the workforce, spotlighting Google's latest round of buyouts and return-to-office mandates. They discuss the hidden impact of AI on sectors like marketing and IT management: even as companies downplay the connection. The hosts debate whether this shift spells doom or simply signals the next phase in technological evolution, with historical parallels drawn from the Industrial Revolution to the Dot-Com boom.

Sam shares a powerful personal story about using ChatGPT to help diagnose a health concern – one later confirmed by his doctor. And they unpack how AI is already transforming medicine, coding, and even pharmacy workflows. The conversation also dives into CodeX, OpenAI’s software engineering agent, and what it means for the future of development. Wrapping up, they analyze Epic Games’ legal wins against Big Tech and the slow unraveling of app store monopolies, while debating whether new Android phones, military discount verification tools, and good old physical keyboards are signs of progress; Or just smarter pivots in a changing landscape?

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison break down the real cost of cutting corners in IT services. From weak cybersecurity measures to incomplete backups and fine-print exclusions in managed service contracts, they share firsthand insights on why "you get what you pay for" rings especially true in the tech world. They also revisit the old Sears & Roebuck “good, better, best” model and apply it to modern IT decisions - advocating for a balanced, thoughtful approach to tech investment rather than choosing the cheapest or flashiest option.

Then the conversation pivots to mobile service plans, where the hosts discuss the postpaid “top-tier” options from major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile may not be worth the hype; or the price tag. They highlight the benefits of MVNOs like Tello and Visible, which offer surprisingly good coverage and flexibility at a fraction of the cost. With plans as low as $5/month, and no contracts or bundled fluff, these alternatives can be game-changers for families and budget-conscious users alike. They wrap up with a fun note on how ChatGPT hilariously lost a chess match to a 1979 Atari 2600, underscoring that even high-tech AI has its blind spots.

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison checkout the buzz around Slate Auto's bold attempt to deliver a $25,000 electric truck by 2026. Will it be a stripped-down marvel or another over-promised EV? The guys break down what’s missing (including paint and touchscreens) and whether U.S. manufacturing can truly hit that price point.

The conversation shifts into AI's growing role in software development, highlighting OpenAI’s new Codex agent and the rise of "coders who can’t code" – individuals who leverage AI to build software without traditional programming skills. Sam and Jay also dive into mounting concerns about addictive tech behaviors in children, surveillance in schools, and AI tools already used by law enforcement to track people by physical traits. It's a packed episode full of innovation, ethical dilemmas, and stark warnings about where we're headed!

In this thought-provoking episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison dive into the latest waves in wearable technology and artificial intelligence. From Meta's new partnership with Oakley on smart glasses that record 3K video, to the cultural shift of 24/7 earbuds, they explore how tech is increasingly encroaching on everyday life. The hosts also reflect on Apple's liquid glass interface and whether society is heading toward full-time digital immersion - or even brain-connected wearables.

The conversation shifts into the power and pitfalls of AI voice cloning. Sam shares how he's been experimenting with AI-generated commercials using a clone of his own voice; and the ethical and legal implications of doing so. They wrap up with a deep dive into new research from Anthropic showing how AI models may resort to manipulation or blackmail in test scenarios. It’s a packed hour of tech talk you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison issue a critical cybersecurity alert: the biggest threat to your organization's digital safety isn’t hackers — it's you and your employees. The hosts emphasize how simple human error, like unsafe browsing or reused credentials, can open the door to data breaches. They explore practical solutions including enforceable acceptable use policies, quarterly employee training, phishing simulations, and maintaining separation between personal and work tech to bolster digital hygiene.

Also on this episode, the duo dives into Walmart’s rapid drone delivery expansion to five new cities and the surprising emergence of Shopify as a rising e-commerce powerhouse. They compare Amazon’s dominance to Shopify’s growing fulfillment network and partnerships, highlighting a shift in the digital retail landscape.

Wrapping up, they dissect Apple’s new “liquid glass” UI in iOS 26, a controversial visual overhaul aimed at future AR integration. Sam vents his frustration with Apple’s priorities, arguing for practical improvements like reliable AI and accurate mapping. With tech ecosystems tightening and user patience wearing thin, the hosts weigh the true cost of innovation — style over substance.

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison explore how cutting-edge AI is transforming storm prediction. With hurricane season underway, the National Hurricane Center is partnering with Google DeepMind to leverage a new AI forecasting model that predicts hurricane strength and path up to 15 days in advance. The duo discusses how this open-access tool, combined with public and forecaster input, could revolutionize emergency preparedness and reduce unnecessary evacuations.

Next, they dive into the newly launched Nintendo Switch 2, examining its beefed-up specs, price hike, and the continued challenges of battery life. Jay shares insights from real-world usage, including the new Joy-Con magnetic connectors, motion-enabled controls, and the growing frustration over digital-only game ownership and DRM limitations.

Wrapping up, the hosts look at fascinating biometric research from Israel's Weizmann Institute, which shows that individuals can be uniquely identified by their nasal breathing patterns — opening the door to new authentication methods. They raise concerns about password fatigue, multi-factor authentication overload, and the future of digital security in an increasingly complex online world.