Zoom's China Ties Prompt National-Security Review
Video conferencing company Zoom's plan to buy software business Five9 for nearly $15 billion has sparked a federal investigation of the deal over national-security concerns. Reporter Kate O'Keeffe joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss why the deal is under review despite both companies being based in the U.S., and what it says about how authorities are looking to protect the telecommunications secto...
13m Sep 23, 2021
13m
Tesla's 'Self Driving' Update Sets Up Clash With Safety Officials
The new head of the National Transportation Safety Board says Tesla should slow its plans to release updated driver-assistance features and be clearer with drivers about what the software is capable of. Reporter Rebecca Elliot joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss why self-driving technology is so important to Tesla and how safety officials' concerns might play out. Learn more about your ad choices....
14m Sep 22, 2021
14m
You've Got Apple Questions. We've Got Answers.
Wondering if you should upgrade your Apple devices? Curious about Apple's privacy updates? WSJ personal tech columnist Nicole Nguyen joins host Zoe Thomas to answer listener questions about Apple's new devices and what's next for the company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14m Sep 20, 2021
14m
How Facebook Users Undermined Zuckerberg's Covid Vaccine Goals
Mark Zuckerberg wanted Facebook to support accurate information about Covid-19 and vaccines. But misinformation about the pandemic continues to circulate on the platform. Reporter Sam Schechner joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss why Facebook's CEO struggled to meet his goal, and the warnings employees gave about the company's efforts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Sep 20, 2021
13m
When Facebook's Staff Flagged Criminal Content, Its Response Was Weak
Facebook employees have raised alarms about drug cartels, human traffickers and violent militias using the platform to recruit in developing countries. But the social-media giant's response often doesn't go far enough to stop dangerous posts on its platforms. Reporter Justin Scheck joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss why the company struggles to handle this content and the catastrophic effects it ...
15m Sep 17, 2021
15m
Zuckerberg Resisted Fixes for Facebook's Divisive Algorithm
Facebook says its platform is designed to create meaningful interaction. But a Wall Street Journal investigation finds changes the company made to its algorithm led to increased hostility on the platform, and CEO Mark Zuckerberg resisted some proposed fixes. Reporter Keach Hagey joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the hidden reasons behind Facebook's decision and the unintended consequences for us...
15m Sep 16, 2021
15m
Facebook Downplayed Instagram's Harm to Some Teens
A Wall Street Journal investigation shows that Facebook's internal research found that its Instagram service is harmful for many young users, especially teenage girls, and can lead to anxiety, depression and risk of suicide. Yet in public, Facebook has consistently played down the app's negative effects on teens. Reporter Georgia Wells joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the latest installment of ...
14m Sep 15, 2021
14m
Facebook's Secret Rules for Elite Users
Facebook says the rules on its platforms apply to all users, but a Wall Street Journal investigation finds a large group of select users gets special treatment. Reporter Justin Scheck joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the first story in the WSJ's investigative series "The Facebook Files," including why Facebook created a list of elite users, the preferential treatment they can receive and how th...
14m Sep 14, 2021
14m
Are Amazon's Algorithm Bosses Coming to Your Workplace Next?
Amazon's use of robots and worker-monitoring technology is a key part of its management strategy. WSJ tech columnist Christopher Mims joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what he calls "Bezosism," what it means for workers and why it might spread to other companies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14m Sep 13, 2021
14m
How 9/11 Changed Data Privacy
Twenty years after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, we look back at how that moment opened the door to mass data collection. Host Zoe Thomas speaks with reporter Byron Tau and former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold about the role private tech companies have played and how Americans view data privacy today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15m Sep 10, 2021
15m
Sex, Drugs and TikTok: What the Viral Video App Shows Minors
A Wall Street Journal investigation has found TikTok's powerful algorithm can drive young users toward content featuring sex and drug use. Investigative reporter Rob Barry joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how minors can slip into watching extreme content on the platform and what TikTok says it plans to do about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Sep 09, 2021
13m
Could Health Tech Put the Annual Checkup on Life Support?
Virtual checkups have become more common during the pandemic, but new ways of gathering health data remotely could make in-person doctor visits a thing of the past. WSJ contributor Ron Winslow joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the new technology and the potential drawbacks of losing the human connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Sep 08, 2021
12m
El Salvador's Bitcoin Bet
On Tuesday, El Salvador is set to become the first country to make bitcoin an official currency. The move was applauded by global crypto fans but also was met with concerns from citizens there. The Wall Street Journal's deputy editor for Latin America, Santiago Perez, joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how the bitcoin rollout will work and the pitfalls the country could face. Learn more about you...
12m Sep 07, 2021
12m
Apple's Ambitious Plans for Health Tracking Rest on Its Smartwatch
Apple has said its health tech will be the company's most important contribution to the world, and now it is working on a slew of new features for its smartwatch that will track various health metrics. Reporter Rolfe Winkler joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss Apple's plans and why some of its ambitions might have a hard time fitting on your wrist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone...
13m Sep 03, 2021
13m
China Bans Videogames on School Nights
China is enacting new rules limiting how much time young videogamers can play online. The WSJ's deputy China bureau chief Josh Chin joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what the rules could mean for players and gaming companies, and what Beijing hopes to achieve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Sep 02, 2021
12m
Opendoor, Zillow and Redfin Bank On Flipping Houses Virtually
More real-estate tech companies are buying and selling houses virtually, using data and images to quickly flip properties. Heard on the Street tech columnist Laura Forman joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how these businesses are hoping to capitalize on pandemic-driven demand to cement their place in the real-estate market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Sep 01, 2021
12m
How the 'Right To Repair' Could Expand Choices and Lower Costs
If you break one of your electronic devices, your options for fixing it can be limited. But new "Right to Repair" measures being debated in Washington and statehouses around the country aim to change that. Senior Personal Tech Columnist Joanna Stern joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Aug 31, 2021
13m
What Is the Metaverse and Why Does Big Tech Want You to Live In It?
Big tech companies have been investing tons of resources into a concept called "the metaverse." Heard on the Street columnist Dan Gallagher joins host Amanda Lewellyn to explain what the new big tech craze is, and what it could mean for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Aug 30, 2021
13m
NFT Art Presents New Frontier for Fraudsters
When NFTs, or nonfungible tokens, started taking off early this year, they were heralded by many in the art world as a way for creators to make money from their digital art. But as the emerging market has exploded, so have scams. Reporter Kelly Crow joins host Amanda Lewellyn to explain. Christopher Zinsli is our supervising producer. Kateri Jochum is the executive producer of WSJ podcasts. Lea...
13m Aug 27, 2021
13m
OnlyFans Backpedals on Plan to Ban Sex Videos
Last week, the social-media company OnlyFans said it would ban sexually explicit content on its platform. The move sparked a backlash, since the site is well-known for adult content. But now, the company says it's reversing course. Reporter Georgia Wells joins host Amanda Lewellyn to explain what led up to the decision, and what it could mean for the burgeoning creator economy. Learn more about...
14m Aug 26, 2021
14m
Hollywood Battles Digital Piracy in the Streaming Era
A new focus on digital releases to streaming services has made it easier for Hollywood studios to reach customers during the pandemic. But it's also led to a rise in higher-quality, faster piracy. Reporter R.T. Watson joins host Amanda Lewellyn to explain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11m Aug 25, 2021
11m
Crypto in the Crosshairs of Global Regulators
The price of bitcoin crossed $50,000 for the first time since May, signaling the possibility of a fresh rally for the digital asset. The news comes amid the broader rise of cryptocurrencies, which has sent regulators scrambling to catch up. Markets reporter Caitlin Ostroff joins host Amanda Lewellyn to round up what regulators are considering, and what that could mean for cryptocurrencies. Lear...
11m Aug 24, 2021
11m
Elon Musk Doubles Down on A.I. Ambitions Despite Regulatory Scrutiny
Tesla has been catching regulatory scrutiny for the company's assisted-driving features that rely on artificial intelligence. But despite the pressure, the company appears to be ramping up its use of the technology: Last week, CEO Elon Musk lifted the curtain on an upcoming Tesla robot. Reporter Rebecca Elliott joins host Amanda Lewellyn to explain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap...
12m Aug 23, 2021
12m
Minimalist Phones Take the Smarts Out of Your Smartphone
Companies offering pared-down phones with few features are hoping to lure users who have grown tired of their smartphones. But convincing people to abandon their favorite apps isn't easy. Reporter Katie Deighton joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how these startups are competing in the smartphone market and what users are likely to want from these minimalist devices. Learn more about your ad choi...
13m Aug 20, 2021
13m
China Set to Pass Sweeping New Data Privacy Law
China is expected to pass one of the world's strictest data privacy laws this week. It's the latest move by the government to tighten restrictions on tech giants. Reporter Eva Xiao joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what it means for companies and why some private citizens will welcome the changes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Aug 19, 2021
12m
Self-Driving Trucks: A Smooth Ride or Bumpy Road?
Self-driving trucks promise a future of faster and cheaper shipping. Startups are testing the technology on the roads and tapping the stock market for financing. But the industry and some investors remain wary of the roadblocks ahead. Reporters Heather Somerville and Jennifer Smith join host Zoe Thomas to discuss the sector's outlook. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Aug 18, 2021
13m
Crypto Industry Unites to Lobby Washington
The cryptocurrency industry prides itself on being decentralized and shying away from connections to government. But as U.S. lawmakers and regulators turn their attention to digital assets, the sector is uniting to lobby for its interests. Reporter Julie Bykowicz joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss this turning point for the crypto industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adc...
13m Aug 17, 2021
13m
Boeing's Space Program Faces New Setback
Boeing's Starliner space capsule has faced a string of problems, setting back a company that was once a leader in the space industry. Reporter Micah Maidenberg joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the latest issues and the role Boeing hopes to play in the sector's future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Aug 16, 2021
13m
How GameStop's Chairman Climbed His Way to the Top
The chairman of GameStop, Ryan Cohen, was just an investor in the videogame retailer in 2019. But through activist tactics and support from meme-stock investors, he has managed to work his way to the top of the company. Reporter Sarah Needleman joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss his rise and what it means for the company's future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Aug 13, 2021
12m
Crypto Heist Highlights Risks of DeFi Market
Hackers stole more than $600 million worth of cryptocurrencies from the decentralized finance platform Poly Network. DeFi has been gaining popularity among users of digital assets, but heists and scams raise questions about the safety of these networks. Reporter Anna Hirtenstein joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what happened and the implications for the unregulated DeFi market. Learn more about...
9m Aug 12, 2021
9m
Robots May Be Cooking Your Next Drive-Through Order
As the hospitality sector struggles to find workers, more restaurants are turning to robots to take up jobs in the kitchen. Tech columnist Christopher Mims joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what these new robot chefs can do, and why they are likely here to stay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Aug 10, 2021
13m
Some Amazon Sellers Go to Great Lengths to Limit Negative Reviews
Some Amazon sellers are tracking down customers who leave bad reviews and begging or even paying them to remove them, in violation of the platform's policy. Personal tech columnist Nicole Nguyen joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how far some sellers will go to keep their ratings high. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11m Aug 10, 2021
11m
Hackers Rebrand After Colonial Pipeline Attack
Experts believe the cybercriminals behind one of the biggest ransomware attacks on U.S. critical infrastructure have regrouped under a new name. How do they know it's the same group, and why would hackers need a rebrand at all? Cybersecurity reporter David Uberti joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Aug 09, 2021
12m
Collecting Your Location Data: Why It's Worth So Much
A little-known location-data broker, X-Mode Social, is being acquired a year after its work raised questions about government surveillance. Reporter Patience Haggin hoins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the deal and the future of the multibillion-dollar consumer data industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11m Aug 05, 2021
11m
Who Benefits Most From the Infrastructure Bill's Broadband Funding?
The infrastructure bill working its way through the Senate includes $65 billion to expand broadband access to poor and isolated communities. But the real winners of the package may be the internet providers themselves. Reporter Drew FitzGerald joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what's in the plan and its potential impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Aug 04, 2021
12m
Big-Money Investors Pour Cash Into Startups
This year is poised to set a record for tech startup fundraising. That's due in large part to funding from large money managers that are writing huge checks to private companies. Reporter Heather Somerville joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what this means for the venture capitalists that traditionally dominated startup financing, and for founders looking to raise cash. Learn more about your ad ...
13m Aug 03, 2021
13m
Big Tech's Influence on Salaries Reaches Beyond Silicon Valley
Remote working has led many big tech firms to hire outside of Silicon Valley. That's an opportunity for workers to reap the benefits and salaries of big companies. But for smaller startups, outside the Bay Area, keeping up is a challenge. Reporter Katie Bindley joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what those smaller firms are doing to stay competitive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaph...
12m Aug 02, 2021
12m
Surfing's Next Sea Change - Using Data to Improve the Ride
Surfing made its first Olympic debut this year. But those in the sport aren't just reading the waves- they're using an increasing amount of artificial intelligence, machine learning and data collection to improve their rides and predict conditions. Reporter Daniela Hernandez joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how technology is changing the sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone...
11m Jul 30, 2021
11m
Biden Seeks New Cybersecurity Standards for Critical Infrastructure
President Biden has directed federal agencies to draw up new standards to help businesses critical to the US economy ward off hackers. Reporter Dustin Volz joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss what the move means for companies and other steps the US is taking to protect against cyber attacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Jul 29, 2021
12m
Beijing Regulators Zero in on Chinese Big Tech
Beijing is increasing pressure on the country's tech firms to get into line with national ambitions. Reporter Stephanie Yang joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the ways regulators are stepping up scrutiny and what it means for the future of Chinese tech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13m Jul 28, 2021
13m
"Candy Crush" Maker Fights Accusations Of Gender Discrimination
California regulators have filed a lawsuit against Activision Blizzard, the company behind Call of Duty, World of Warcraft and Candy Crush. Reporter Sarah Needleman joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the case and the impact of sexual harassment in the gaming industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Jul 27, 2021
12m
Can Camp Help Kids Break Their Tech Habit?
Most overnight camps don't allow electronic devices. Some parents see this as an opportunity to bring their children's screen time back to pre-pandemic levels for back-to-school. Columnist Julie Jargon joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how parents can reset their kids' tech use. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10m Jul 26, 2021
10m
Netflix Wants to Play in the Gaming Industry
Netflix's aspirations in videogames are taking shape. But its dominance in streaming is no guarantee of success in the competitive field of gaming. Reporter Sarah Needleman joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss why Netflix is taking on this challenge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9m Jul 23, 2021
9m
How Does TikTok's Algorithm Know You So Well?
The algorithm TikTok uses to serve up engaging videos has been the source of much speculation. Now an investigation by The Wall Street Journal reveals how the technology behind the fastest-growing social-media platform works. Senior Personal Tech Columnist Joanna Stern joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the findings and what they mean for users. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f...
13m Jul 22, 2021
13m
Does Gallium Spell the End of Silicon?
The metal gallium is enabling a surprising array of new technologies, taking over for the old standby of silicon in some use cases. Tech columnist Christopher Mims joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss the potential for this novel material to help transform our electrified world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10m Jul 21, 2021
10m
As Jeff Bezos Takes Off, Where Is the Space Industry Headed?
Amazon and Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos is set to take a trip to the edge of space, making him the second billionaire to do so in less than two weeks. Reporter Micah Maidenberg joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how the business models of the companies involved could shape the development of the private space industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Jul 20, 2021
12m
Experimental Brain Implant Helps Man Who Can't Speak Communicate
A team of California scientists backed by Facebook say they successfully tested an experimental brain implant that turned brain signals into words on a computer screen. Tech reporter Rolfe Winkler joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how it worked and why private companies are so interested in the space. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Jul 19, 2021
12m
Chip Shortage Prompts Fake Parts From Scammers
The global chip shortage has yet another consequence: a rash of fake semiconductors from scammers targeting manufacturers that are desperate for components. Reporter Stephanie Yang joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss why companies are falling for the fakes, and what they're doing about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
12m Jul 16, 2021
12m
Cleantech Startups Attract Fresh Wave of Cash
After some high-profile failures a decade ago, investors and governments soured on clean-technology companies. Now they're back, funding a new wave of green startups. Reporter Scott Patterson joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss whether this time will be different. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14m Jul 15, 2021
14m
Cyberbullying Takes a Toll. Could Insurance Help?
Bad actors online can take an emotional and, in some cases, financial toll on their victims. Now some insurance agencies are offering policies to protect against the impact of cyberbullying. Family & Tech columnist Julie Jargon joins host Zoe Thomas to discuss how cyberbullying insurance works, plus ways of warding off bullies online in the first place Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me...
11m Jul 14, 2021
11m