Tech Radio Ireland

This week a surprise shift in the multi-billion-pound space race as Jeff Bezos beats Elon Musk to the launchpad for the moon. Plus, we break down that incredibly awkward car-crash interview where Bezos tried to defend his stance on taxation.

Also, we look at how AI is changing the game for ethical hackers. We hear about Valentina Palmiotti (aka "Chompie"), the top-performing ethical hacker at Berlin’s Pwn2Own competition, about how AI tools are helping her score massive bug bounties and why she fears her hacking days might actually be numbered.

Finally, with our gu...

Some of the biggest structural shifts across the tech landscape have been happening this week.

Dive into the details of Meta cutting 20% of its workforce by email, what the severance package actually looks like, and how plummeting morale and sliding compensation packages are changing the game for big tech employees.

You also get the standout tech from Google I/O. We filter through the noise to bring you our top picks, including the new "audio glasses" and why AI video creation tools might actually be useful.

Plus, Elon Musk is positioning SpaceX for...

Get the highlights from this year's Tech Excellence Awards in Dublin, including why Rena Maycock of Chirp took home Person of the Year and how the HSE is finally digitising maternal healthcare at scale.

Plus, we examine the arrival of the “Googlebook”, new premium hardware featuring the mysterious "G-key" and "Glowbar". We also tackle the sobering news from LinkedIn, where large job cuts have been announced for Ireland despite soaring revenues. 

For a full list of Tech Excellence Award Winners see https://techawards.techcentral.ie/

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This week a massive showdown in Dublin as Coimisiún na Meán takes on Meta and TikTok over "dark patterns" and manipulative algorithms. Will they test their new powers to see if Meta is intentionally making it difficult for you to switch off their profiling algorithms?

We also head to a California courtroom where Elon Musk is trying to claw back $134 billion from OpenAI. With Greg Brockman’s personal diaries being read out in court and Sam Altman set to take the stand, the founding agreement of the world’s most famous AI company is being torn a...

Our feature guest this week is Patrick Masterson, MD of Magnet+, who looks at Ireland’s transition to a fibre-only nation by 2030 and what the death of copper means for your connectivity.

Before that, in the news it’s a huge “Big Tech” results week but Dusty fears it could be the beginning of the end. We look at who delivered and who is coasting on hype. 

We also focus on the Irish IT workplace, where recent data shows 60% of IT pros are hitting a breaking point due to scope creep and legacy system headaches. 

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It’s the end of an era at Apple as CEO Tim Cook hands over the keys of the kingdom to John Ternus. So, this week is an Apple special looking at;

Who is John Ternus? Get to know the man behind Apple Silicon and the modern iPad. We discuss why his hardware-first background signals a shift away from Tim Cook’s supply-chain focus and what that means for future device innovation.

The Legacy of Tim Cook: We look back at 15 years of unprecedented growth, from the masterstroke of moving manufacturing beyond China to the stag...

Shoes that are now AI, how your smart TV is spying on you and full movie leak on X are just some of the stories this week.

We also look at the push for a definitive "off" switch for Ireland’s legacy copper network. While full fibre reaches new milestones, the transition isn't as simple as swapping a cable; it’s a logistical puzzle involving everything from elderly care panic buttons to the humble office fax machine. We look at why the UK is aiming for 2027 and what a copper-free Ireland might actually look like by 2030.

Pl...

Was Artemis II moon mission an anti-climax? While the crew is set to break records for the furthest humans have ever travelled from Earth, it turns out that being a space pioneer isn't all glamour. Between broken toilets and the ultimate "down to Earth" frustration, Outlook failing to sync, we look at the reality of life inside the Orion capsule.

Then, we dig into the latest economic reports regarding AI and the job market. It’s not all doom and gloom, but it is a wake-up call. We explore why IT workers might be the most at ri...

A super packed Easter edition diving into the scale of the Artemis moon mission, how it’s dwarfed by AI and what will happen next. There is a slew of other space news this week, including Irish involvement in the ISS and an Aer Lingus collaboration with Starlink.

Still at home, we look at the shifting tides of the Irish tech sector. Intel are making a massive move to reclaim its Leixlip plant and Oracle are facing significant job cuts.

Finally, we’re back on the streets of the capital. We chat with Julian Moutte of B...

A heavy hitter this week focusing on a landmark legal ruling that could fundamentally change how apps in your pocket are designed. It’s the Google/Meta "Addictive by Design" verdict. We look at why the jury targeted features like infinite scroll and autoplay and what this means for the future of notifications.

We’re also diving into a massive security breakthrough involving the Criminal Assets Bureau and a lost fortune in Bitcoin, before chatting with Sean McCarthy about an AI phone assistant that sounds so naturally Irish, it’s almost uncanny.

From the 20th annive...

As the government looks toward Digital Wallets to enforce age limits for under-16s, we ask is this a convenient security solution or simply a massive new attack surface for your biometric data? We also find out why Samsung pulled the plug on the Galaxy Z Trifold and Meta pulled the plug on the Metaverse. 

To wrap things up, we take you to University College Dublin. Niall Kitson speaks with the team at the School of Computer Science about their pioneering 6G testbed. We find out why 6G isn’t just about faster YouTube downloads, but rather a c...

We find the truth behind the information blackout with the Iran war, why verifying news in the Middle East has become nearly impossible and social media platforms are struggling with an influx of AI-generated propaganda.

There are loads of other stories including why Amazon is blaming the "human" for AI's mistakes which led to a recent 13-hour outage. We dive into Ireland’s first self-powered data centre and find out why the UK parliament has bucked the trend by not blocking social media for under-16s.  

Finally, our guest Rosemary Durkan, CEO of Nocomed, chats abo...

We deconstruct Apple’s new MacBook Neo. Is a €699 laptop running an iPhone’s A18 Pro chip a genuine bargain or is the "slower bandwidth" a dealbreaker? We also keep you up-to-speed on Apple’s other product launches this week, from the iPad Air to the latest iPhone 17e. We also check the  reality of lunar outposts and how data centres are becoming an election issue.

With  our guest this week, we sit down with Declan Watters, founder of Medisnap, to discuss how a simple smartphone tap is solving one of the most stressful hurdles for paramedics: instant me...

We kick off this week with a reality check: Are Samsung’s improvements on the new Galaxy S26 range enough to justify the price hike? We break down the specs and tell you if it’s time to upgrade or stick with your current model.

In the "Ireland vs Big Tech" battle, we look at whether the Online Safety Commissioner’s plan to hold tech directors personally liable is a genuine game-changer or just more political theatre. We also sit down with Rena Maycock, CEO of Chirp, to discuss why social media bans for kids are failing and ho...

This week on Tech Radio, we’re asking if the era of the "infinite scroll" is finally over. As Ireland joins a wave of European nations introducing a digital age of majority, we look at the "bellwether" legal case in Los Angeles that is taking Mark Zuckerberg to task. Is it time to stop blaming the content and start blaming the design?

We also celebrate a major Irish energy milestone: the launch of the country’s first grid-scale battery storage system in Edenderry. Plus, we discuss why Apple’s upcoming "budget" MacBook feels out of character, why your h...

This week on Tech Radio, we explore the "not mad" world of tech rivalries and lunar ambitions. From Anthropic’s brutal Super Bowl ads dismantling the competition to Elon Musk’s plans for an AI satellite factory—and a giant catapult—on the moon, we look at the power moves shaping 2026.

We dive into the "Productivity Paradox," discussing why new research shows AI is making us work longer hours rather than shorter ones, and why Apple has hit another snag in its race to fix Siri. We also look at the launch of the Digital Euro: is it a gen...

This week on Tech Radio, we explore the "New World Order" of technology. From the shifting geopolitical landscape to the rise of a multipolar world, we discuss how AI and data are rewriting the rules of global power and why America may no longer be the world’s sole "tech policeman."

We dive into the escalating technological war, including France’s crackdown on VPNs and social media age limits, and the latest milestones in the Artemis moon mission—including why a liquid hydrogen leak won't stop the next giant leap for mankind. Plus, we look at Elon Musk’s...

This week on Tech Radio, we dive into France’s bold decision to "decouple" from American tech giants like Microsoft and Cisco. We explore whether Europe can truly rebuild its own tech ecosystem or if the continent is simply suffering from a 30-year "tech lag."

We also dissect the controversial shifts at TikTok following its US sale, the "cyber-murder" tactics targeting Poland’s energy grid, and why Amazon is letting go of another 16,000 employees despite a booming stock price.

Plus, our guest Elaine Laird, Chief People Officer at Logitech, discusses the challenge of gender diversity in S...

We look back at the seven biggest stories of the week, including a social media ban for young people in the UK, ChatGPT’s move into advertising, and the billionaire Twitter spat we didn't know we wanted. We also explore the arrival of SEPA instant payments in Ireland and what it means for the future of neobanks like Revolut.

Plus, our guest Fergal Brosnan, CEO of RDI Hub, fills us in on the importance of the "cluster effect" for start-ups and how Kerry is becoming a focal point for fermenting new tech ideas.

Listen to Te...

This week, we look at the rapidly shifting landscape of digital defense, where the line between "smart computing" and true Artificial Intelligence is becoming increasingly blurred. As criminals begin to use Large Language Models to craft flawless phishing emails and bespoke malware, the "human factor" is being tested like never before.

We're asking a vital question: Is it time to stop blaming the user and start building better guardrails? From the "confidently wrong" nature of AI decision-making to the terrifying reality of supply chain attacks like SolarWinds, we explore why the old methods of "detect and react"...

In this episode of Tech Radio, Niall Kitson broadcasts from the RDS Dublin for the 2026 Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, where 1,000 students are showcasing over 550 projects. This year's innovations bridge the gap between high-end tech and practical community solutions, featuring everything from Eco Sprout, a sustainability app for conscious shopping, to a specialized underwater rescue headset that uses eye-tracking sensors to prevent drownings.

The exhibition highlights a strong move toward "gamifying" positive behavior, seen in the Bin Box robots that reward proper waste disposal with music and prizes. Other technical breakthroughs include Power Predict, an app forecasting...

We’re looking back on top stories of 2025 and critically, looking ahead at 2026!  Dusty and Niall are joined by Tech Central journalist Jason Walsh for a sparky show. Warning: Opinions May Differ!

Also, we say thank you to RTE’s digital radio service RTE Radio One Extra.  For many years Tech Radio has been a feature on their schedule but from Dec 31st all will fall quiet as the radio service closes.  Our thanks to Erik and the team for believing in our show and bringing it to new audiences across the country. 

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This week, we look at two massive, international developments that will reshape how we all use the internet, whether you're a heavy user or just checking in now and then.

We're asking a vital question: Where Australia goes, so goes the world? The country has just implemented a pioneering, comprehensive ban on social media accounts for anyone under 16, and the fallout is immediate—not just for Big Tech, but for the kids now searching for alternatives. 

And speaking of big changes, the US is looking to make your digital past a part of your future tra...

We got you covered with smart gift ideas that'll actually get used, from VR headsets that don't need a gaming PC to AI phone assistants with a proper Dublin accent.  On top of dozens of tech gift ideas you also learn how to spot tech worth buying secondhand, subscription services actually worth paying for and why fitness tracking doesn't need a smartwatch.

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TECH FIRE 

TechFire returns on 9 December with a look a...

This week, we're diving into the EU's push to ban social media for Irish kids, Ireland's space economy is having a record year and we share our Black Friday tech bargains.

Plus, we look at AI in the workplace and how it is forcing companies to rethink their ways of doing business internally and out with Neil Bowden from Dell Technologies Ireland.

If you would like to hear the previous episode we mentioned about the Irish Space Industry, you’ll find it here;
https://www.techcentral.ie/an-irish-perspective-on-space-4-0/

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TECH...

This week, why Apple might be pulling the plug on the iPhone Air before it's barely started and what Tim Cook's potential departure next year could mean for the company's direction. We also look at how 20% of the internet went dark this week and are we watching an AI bubble burst in real-time. 

Plus, we talk about how colleges can embrace AI instead of being afraid of it with our guest Dr Hazel Farrell from SETU.

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This week, Apple's planning a budget MacBook targeting the space Chromebooks have dominated for years. We also break down the eye-watering $38 billion OpenAI-Amazon deal and why it’s like Netflix paying your Netflix subscription.

Plus we find out more about Science Week with Ruth Freeman from Research Ireland. For more on Science Week, 09 - 16 Nov, see scienceweek.ie

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This week, Amazon's mass redundancy tells us a lot about the world's AI transformation. We also look at the less than stellar way they explained it in an internal email to employees. Microsoft's had a proper wobble with Azure taking out Microsoft 365 services, yet their valuation still hit a record high. And the continuing row over the appointment of an Irish Data Protection Commissioner steps up a gear. 

Plus, with Beta Festival starting next weekend the 7th of November, we find out more about the ton of tech events lined up with festival founder and director Aisling M...

We cover the really mundane reason Monday's massive AWS outage shut down the internet, exposing an uncomfortable truth about how we've essentially put all our eggs in just three baskets: AWS, Google, and Microsoft.

Closer to home, an AI-generated deepfake video showed an Irish election candidate withdrawing from the race, complete with a convincing fake Sharon Ní Bheoláin presenting it on RTÉ News. The question everyone's asking: who made it, and how do we stop this becoming the new normal? Plus, we'll look at why your driving licence is going digital by 2030.

Plus, we’ll be...

Windows 10 is finally being killed off by Microsoft. We look at what you can do and what Microsoft's strategy is going forward.  We also check out the all new MacBook Pro M5, and dig into a surprise move from Google with Europe's DMA.

Plus, we have a fascinating chat about AI in the workplace with Lisa Hunt, Microsoft Practice Director at Viatel Technology Group.

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube
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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM...

We unpack Budget 2025's AI spending commitments and ask whether the money will actually make a difference to Irish businesses trying to navigate digital transformation. We're also looking at the uncomfortable question everyone in tech is thinking but not saying out loud: are we in an AI bubble and what happens when it bursts? Finally, we explore why billionaires think hosting your data in orbit might be a brilliant idea 

Plus, our guest Kieran McCorry, Microsoft’s National Technology, fills us in on why AI is being used less by women and Gen Z and how more peo...

This week Apple continues its war with the EU over the Digital Markets Act, the entertainment industry continues its war with AI, and Asahi goes to war after a cyber attack brings its business to a halt. Plus HP Ireland country manager Neil Dover talks about technology and culture in the workplace.

Don't forget Niall's sci-fi movie recommedation on Netflix "Lost in Starlight"

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube

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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328

Spotify - https://ope...

This week Amazon steps away from groceries in the UK, Apple complains about the digital markets act and why Gen Z is so unpopular at work. We also get a glimpse of understanding risk and in the age of AI with Aon’s Jonathan McKenna and Martin McGovern.

A reminder that TechCentral’s webinar on ransomware attacks is on this Oct 03rd. More details and free registration at webinar.techcentral.ie

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube

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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id25627...

This week Meta once again tries to make AR glasses happenm there’s a new face at the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner and TikTok has a buyer in the US, with strings attached. 

We also talk with IBM’s Elaine Hanley about the state of cybersecurity in 2025.

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube

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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIreland
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Apple launched the iPhone Air this week which has some very strong (and not so good) points.  We look at all the angles including the new ‘regular’ iPhones, smartwatch and a gaping hole with Air Pods. There is also news on the government snooping on your encrypted chats and a Revolut challenger is coming to Ireland.

Plus, we get some fascinating insights into the global FemTech industry with our guest Tanya Mulcahy, director of the Health Innovation Hub Ireland (HIHI). Check out their website at https://www.hih.ie

Tech Radio is produced by dustpod.io

Ireland just made space history with its first satellite successfully completing its mission and de-orbiting as we speak. We find out more about some of the serious science it pulled off including gamma-ray burst detection and advanced satellite control systems that would make NASA jealous. 

Elsewhere, we discover why Google's latest multi million dollar privacy slap actually matters to you and we dig as far as we can into a spyware story involving the Garda Siochana and an Israeli spy firm. 

Plus, researchers from Dublin City University, Dawood University in Pakistan, and Munster Technological University ar...

This week we look at the role of AI in the tragic death of an American teen, Nvidia’s financials continue to impress, and Orivium’s Emma Clarke talks about her company’s method of extracting and reusing rare earth materials.

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube

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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIreland

RSS - https://feeds.transistor.fm/techradio

This week Google drops a new series of Pixel devices, a surprise visitor brings good news and Intel gets a new benefactor. 

Plus, we find out more about AI and the science of longevity with our special guest Kennedy Schaal, CEO & founder of Rejuve. To find out more about Kennedy, visit rejuv.biotech

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube

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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2

YouTube - https://www...

We often talk about the work people won’t have to do thanks to technologies like automation and AI. However, there are plenty of jobs out there that people shouldn’t be doing in the first place!

To find out what they are, Niall Kitson had a chat with AnyBotics Senior Product Manager and Swiss chapter Co-Lead of Women in Robotics Kateryna Portmann along with Technical Project Manager with Verity Nazrin Aliyeva to talk about their experiences.

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube
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We are shocked to learn the astounding number of Irish people who say they have had a relationship with an AI chatbot. We also hear how Grok has become the internet’s most dangerous toy, why Spotify is picking your pocket, and we celebrate the 45th birthday of Pac-Man!

Listen to Tech Radio now on Apple, Spotify and YouTube

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Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tech-radio-ireland/id256279328

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5vAWM1vvHbQKYE79dgCGY2

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TechRadioIreland

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