This Week in Tech - Episode 992

Introduction

• First show from new ATCT studio.
• Panel includes ABR Alii from CNET, Shashana Weissman from R Street, and Andrew Chow, author of "Cryptomania."
• Topics include DOJ antitrust suit against Google, AI regulation, and the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA).

Panel Introductions

• Shashana Weissman: Discusses work on regulations and the impact on processed meats in the marketplace.
• ABR Alii: Talks about history with CNET and its relationship with ZDNet.
• Andrew Chow: Author of "Cryptomania," discusses the hype around NFTs and crypto, including events like Jimmy Fallon's investment in NFTs.

Cryptomania

• Book by Andrew Chow explores the rise and fall of FTX and the broader cryptocurrency landscape.
• Discusses the volatility in crypto markets and public figures' involvement like Donald Trump.
• Crypto's impact on politics and economy, with notable figures like the Winkle Vos twins investing into political campaigns.

Google Antitrust Suit

• DOJ ruling against Google claiming it monopolized the search market through exclusive deals with Apple, Samsung, Mozilla.
• Discussion on the implications of the ruling and potential penalties.
• Exploration of whether Google is truly a monopoly with the rise of other search methods like TikTok and Instagram.

Remembering Susan Wojcicki

• Tribute to Susan Wojcicki, former CEO of YouTube and influential figure at Google.
• Contributions include launching AdSense, YouTube acquisition, and promoting educational content on YouTube.

AI in the Olympics

• Use of AI technologies at the Olympics like AI-generated recaps from Al Michaels' voice.
• Concerns about AI replacing human roles and its influence on audience engagement.

AI Perception and Regulation

• Public skepticism towards AI, with studies indicating that AI branding reduces consumer trust.
• Discussion on AI regulation, citing California's potential legislation and its impact on open-source development.

Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA)

• Overview of KOSA and its implications for age verification and user privacy.
• Concerns about identity theft and the legislation's impact on minors' safety online.
• Potential issues with implementing parental controls and filtering content.

Net Neutrality

• Discussion on the FCC's attempt to restore net neutrality and the recent court ruling blocking it.
• Reflection on how the absence of net neutrality post-2015 hasn't led to the anticipated negative consequences.

CNET Acquisition

• CNET acquired by ZDNet, leading to discussions on media industry consolidation.
• Insight into the challenges faced by tech journalism and maintaining relevance in a changing media landscape.

Conclusion

• Closing thoughts on the evolving landscape of tech, media, and regulation.
• Emphasis on the need for nuanced approaches to addressing issues in technology and media industries.