Friday Finds

Podcasting Realities, AI Bedtime Stories, and Android's Accessibility Advances.

Podcasting Industry Challenges: Discussing the recent layoffs at Spotify, where around 1,500 jobs, or 17% of its workforce, were cut. This was the third round of layoffs in 2023, as Spotify aimed to become more productive and efficient amidst slow economic growth and rising capital costs. Despite strong user growth and subscriber numbers, Spotify faced challenges in North American premium subscriber growth and a decline in average revenue per user (ARPU). AI Bedtime Stories - Jimmy Stewart's Voice: Exploring the innovative use of generative AI by the Calm app to create a new bedtime story narrated in the voice of the late Jimmy Stewart. This was made possible by training a voice model with Stewart's past performances. Android's Accessibility Advances: Highlighting the advancements in Android accessibility features, emphasizing the importance of having access to diverse platforms. Mention of new apps and tools, including Seeing AI, Be My Eyes, and Envision AI, now available for Android, enhancing accessibility for the blind and visually impaired. For detailed insights on Spotify's layoffs and their impact on the podcasting industry, refer to TechCrunch​​. Support Friday Finds by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/fridayfinds Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/fridayfinds/11a4dffa-76bd-4b80-bd3d-616ae345a91c This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-3bc504 for 40% off for 4 months, and support Friday Finds.

Amazon's Software Shift, Robot Safety, and OctoStudio Innovation

In this episode of Friday Finds, we discuss Amazon's shift to its own software for smart devices, potential safety challenges with robots, an exciting block-based programming app called OctoStudio, and invite listener feedback. Tune in for updates! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/fridayfinds/e876384b-ee81-43e4-a2f6-4c31ae3e1c9c This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-3bc504 for 40% off for 4 months, and support Friday Finds.

Friday Finds: Humane AI Pin, Medical Emergencies, and Microsoft's Therapy Innovation"

In this episode of Friday Finds, we discuss Humane's AI pin, a wearable device with voice control, gestures, and a built-in projector. We also cover a medical emergency at the Board Ape Yacht Club festival and Microsoft's patent for an AI therapy app. Join us as we explore the potential of AI in different areas and invite listeners to share their thoughts. Tune in on Apple Podcasts or iacast radio, and reach out to us at feedback@fridayfinds.show. Enjoy this episode and have a great week ahead! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/fridayfinds/1638ba9e-97da-485b-8591-8885e768d4ea This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-3bc504 for 40% off for 4 months, and support Friday Finds.

Self Driving Cars, Acustic Touch, and automatically updated iPhones

Episode Notes In this week's episode of Friday Finds, we discuss the expansion of robo-taxi services in San Francisco and the concerns surrounding recent incidents. We also explore the use of acoustic touch technology in smart glasses for the blind and highlight a new tool from Apple that speeds up the setup process for new iPhones. Share your feedback at feedback@fridayfinds.show and find us on Apple Podcasts and the IACast network. Have a great week! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/fridayfinds/7081426c-51d7-4872-817b-1f4fc821a56b This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-3bc504 for 40% off for 4 months, and support Friday Finds.

Alerts, AI, and Accountability: Navigating Technology in the Digital Age - Friday Finds

In this episode of Friday Finds, we discuss the recent nationwide test of public alerts conducted by FEMA and the FCC. We also explore the complexities of delivering widespread alerts in the digital age and the need for collaboration among technology providers. We delve into the potential risks and misuse of AI technologies, including the creation of false information and the replication of deceased individuals. We highlight the importance of cautious and responsible use of AI tools. As we wrap up, we encourage listeners to share their thoughts on these topics.