The PC Pro Podcast

Episode 785: Cynnwys gwleidyddol ar gyfryngau cymdeithasol

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:10:00 +0100

The gang discusses a new experiment to see how Welsh voters are exposed to political content on social media, waves an unsentimental farewell to the Mac Pro and laments the intrusion of ads into a) our open-source coding projects and b) our kitchens. In our regular Hot Hardware segment, Barry attempts to justify the purchase of his Apple MacBook Pro 16in with M5 Pro processor.

Episode 784: Making Windows cool again (good luck!)

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:05:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s plan to make Windows slicker and more user friendly, America’s ban on basically all foreign-made home routers and the closure of OpenAI’s Sora video-generation service. We also raise an eyebrow at Elon Musk’s characteristically ambitious decision to build the world’s biggest silicon fabrication plant. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ugreen Nexode, a multi-port 500W desktop power supply that can simultaneously charge five laptops and an iPod.

Episode 783: What we really think about the Apple MacBook Neo

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:05:00 +0100

Let's start with what we finished on for a change: the Apple MacBook Neo, in the flesh. Jon Honeyball proposes it as the Hot Hardware of the Week, but not without opposition...

Also this week, Barry explains what you need to know about Alexa+, which landed in the UK this week (you may want to mute your Echo!). Jon shares why he's so annoyed by the Companies House breach, Nik explains why brain-cell powered computers may be the future, and Tim reveals what's been happening at Nvidia's GTC 2026 event.

Episode 782: Sure, the code took Amazon down for six hours, but at least it’s commented

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:03:00 +0100

The team looks at Amazon’s embarrassing AI-related outages, asks whether BBC iPlayer should join forces with other major UK broadcasters and weighs up a Norwegian initiative aimed at reversing the trend for everything in technology to gradually get worse and worse (you know the term). As occasionally happens, our Hot Hardware candidate is in fact a piece of software, specifically a real-time transcription tool called Typeless that uses AI to turn your spoken words directly into polished prose.

And if you want to read the Forbrukerrådet report referred to by Lee, you can find the English version here: https://storage02.forbrukerradet.no/media/2026/02/breaking-free-pathways-to-a-fair-technological-future.pdf

Episode 781: Eight gigabytes ought to be enough for anybody (it never gets old)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:01:00 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s latest product announcements, including the cheap and colourful MacBook Neo; we also look at Lenovo’s new modular laptop concept, and kick over the US government’s spat with AI developer Anthropic. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Sekonic C-800-U spectrometer, a useful device for checking colour consistency in creative environments.

Episode 780: Claude would like to be your Coworker

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 17:05:00 +0100

This week the team chat about Claude Cowork, the change in leadership within Microsoft's XBOX division, rumours of a touchscreen Mac and Ofcom's fines for adult sites that don't implement age verification.

Our Hot Hardware of the Week candidate is a Dell's 52" monster monitor.

Jon's ZEISS Lens Wipes can be bought at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/ZEISS-Binoculars-Individually-Disposable-Spectacle-White/dp/B00IKGH2TI/

Episode 779: PodcastPlayer.exe wants to access your podcast feed

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:56:00 +0100

The team discusses the growing impact of worldwide shortages of RAM and storage, new security alerts in Windows and a prediction that white-collar jobs could be on the way out. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Starlink Mini, a portable white rectangle that can get you online from anywhere.

Episode 778: Could too many Jaffa Cakes lead to a call from the GP?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:58:00 +0100

The team discusses new research that analyses your personal shopping history for potential health issues; explores Moltbook, the new social media platform that’s strictly for AI agents; and debates the UK’s light touch on app store monopolies. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the RØDECaster Video S, a mini-production studio that lets you mix and stream multiple live video and audio feeds from a portable desktop console.

Episode 777: Ejecting the Copilot?

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:35:00 +0100

Barry, Olivia, Jon and Lee discuss whether Microsoft has finally realized that users don't want Copilot forced into every corner of Windows. The Data Use and Access Act 2025 is under the spotlight to understand what the legalisation of automated decision-making means for your privacy. The team also ponder why the 8K TV dream has ended.

Our Hot Hardware of the Week nominee is the BenQ Halo 2 Screenbar

For more information about the Chrysalis Backdoor for Notepad++: https://www.rapid7.com/blog/post/tr-chrysalis-backdoor-dive-into-lotus-blossoms-toolkit/

Episode 776: Will Apple pay over Apple Pay?

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:04:00 +0100

The team discusses a class action lawsuit alleging that Apple Pay has pushed up banking prices for everyone, asks whether Microsoft was right to hand over encryption keys to the authorities, and ponders whether Mozilla’s “rebel alliance” of AI upstarts has a chance of defeating the dark side. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the ElevationLab Five-Year Compact Battery for AirTag, an expanded battery case for your Apple AirTags that lasts… wait, I wrote it down here somewhere…

Episode 775: The return of the 4GB laptop?

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:11:00 +0100

The team discusses the ballooning cost of RAM, and a steep and sudden price hike for Rackspace email customers. We issue a cautious welcome to the newly rebooted Digg, and ponder a possible UK-wide social media ban for under-16s. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the XPJBKC heated mouse mat, an affordable desktop accessory designed to keep your fingers warm on those cold winter evenings.

Episode 774: Grok, remove the new clothes from this emperor

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:05:00 +0100

The team discusses reports of Elon Musk’s Grok platform creating non-consensual smut; Apple’s big AI partnership with Google; and dissatisfaction over Roblox’s attempts at age verification. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the UniFi Travel Router, a cheap, compact little hotspot that lets you replicate your home network (and even connect back to it) from anywhere in the world.

Episode 773: Live (almost) from CES in Las Vegas

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:29:00 +0100

In our annual dispatch from the world’s biggest consumer technology showcase, Tim Danton and Jon Honeyball battle jetlag to discuss the top technologies they’ve encountered in three long days of traipsing the halls, including Intel’s new Core Ultra Series 3 processors, the return of Dell’s XPS laptops and the continuing evolution of self-driving cars. Our pundits also look ahead to new developments in health-monitoring wearables, before signing off for a well-earned rest. The podcast returns to its usual weekly schedule next Thursday, 15 January.

Episode 772: Our 2025 Tech Quiz Extravaganza

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:05:00 +0100

It's time for the annual PC Pro Podcast's festive quiz extravaganza!

Dust off your Santa hats and grab a glass of eggnog! Darien Graham-Smith returns as our grand-quizmaster, presiding over a chaotic and hilarious battle of the wits. He’s challenging the elite PC Podcast team of Tim Danton, Rois Ni Thuama, Jon Honeyball, Nik Rawlinson, and Lee Grant on the biggest tech stories of 2025.

Across 13 grueling rounds of abbreviations, classic computing, and the ever-evolving world of AI, our experts face off in two rival teams: Moore’s Outlaws vs. Control-Alt-Defeat. From the physical specs of 1980s Macintoshes to the inner workings of modern chatbots, this episode is a high-stakes, buzzer-beating test of technical dominance.

Who will claim bragging rights for the next year?

Episode 771: Is the kids’ social media ban fair dinkum?

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 15:01:00 +0100

The team debates Australia’s ban on social media for under-16s, the return of smart glasses and a US proposal to require tourists to hand over a trove of personal data – including social media posts. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Hoxe Air Tracker, a neat little tracking tile that does basically the same thing as an Apple AirTag for a third of the price.

Episode 770: ✅ If you like, I can generate hot singles in your area

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:24:00 +0100

Joined by special guest Geoff Campbell, the team discusses the arrival of advertising in ChatGPT, Apple’s apparent defiance of the Indian government and whatever the hell is happening to RAM prices. In a podcast first we also pilot not one but two “Rants in Brief”; our Hot Hardware candidate is Geoff’s self-specified “Mega-UPS” system, which slashes server-room power costs by loading up on cheap energy in the middle of the night and discharging it by day.

Budget 2025 for tech: the good, the bad and the missing

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:51:00 +0100

After a six-month absence, we welcome back Rois Ni Thuama to the PC Pro podcast. What's she been up to? Well, it all started when she helped a woman who had collapsed on a beach...

Joined by Tim Danton and Nik Rawlinson, the team dissects the good and the bad of the UK's budget from a tech perspective, argues about the role of supercomputers and discusses an EU proposal to stop kids from accessing social media, before Rois explains why the insider threat to data security can't be ignored.

This week's Hot Hardware candidate is the Cherry Xtrfy K33 - could this (kind of) mechanical keyboard break the drought and win the award? Listen to the end to find out.

Episode 768: You’ll have to talk to my agent

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:48:00 +0100

The team discusses new “agentic” features being added to Windows, debates the merits of AI-generated podcasts and asks how angry we should be with Cloudflare for accidentally taking down a significant proportion of the internet earlier this week. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logitech Muse, an ingenious spatial stylus for the Apple Vision Pro that lets you point, trace and draw virtual objects in three dimensions.

Episode 767: Steam Machine, ClickFix and Norfolk

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 17:35:00 +0100

This week the team discuss the state of computing within the UK education sector, the forthcoming trio of gaming goodies from Valve: the Steam Controller, Steam Machine and Steam Frame then take a look at a new virtual production studio built by Sony Professional.

Our Hot Hardware of the Week nominee is Blackmagic Camera ProDock

Episode 766: A small church, two pubs and a data centre

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:31:00 +0100

The team discusses the pleasant surprise of Affinity making its creative software suite completely free, an unfortunate bug in Windows 10 and the smalltown data-centre boom. We also look at a new approach to manufacturing chips that packs in the transistors more densely than ever before, and welcome the Logitech MX Master 4 mouse as our Hot Hardware candidate.

To learn more about the data-centre controversy, read the report that Lee was referring to: https://stpp.fordschool.umich.edu/sites/stpp/files/2025-07/stpp-data-centers-2025.pdf

Episode 765: Grokipedia's a Wikipedia copy, right?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:37:00 +0100

There's no getting away from the march of AI this week, whether it's Elon Musk's AI-generated Grokipedia, how OpenAI is dealing with searches related to suicide (and more), the sweeping loss of jobs thanks to AI or Adobe's move to embrace other image-generation models beside its own.

Too much AI for your liking? Luckily, our Hot Hardware this week has nothing to do with artificial intelligence. Instead, Barry nominates the Raspberry Pi 500+, a Raspberry Pi PC baked into a mechanical keyboard.

Episode 764: Sorry, I can’t because of the Amazon outage

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 16:09:00 +0100

The team discusses the massive AWS failure that took down some of the internet’s biggest sites and services, and look forward to the AI-powered future of Windows. We also search our feelings about Amazon’s increasing use of automation to replace human workers, and try out OpenAI’s new ChatGPT-powered web browser. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the BOOX Note Max, an A4-sized e-Ink tablet for reading and note-taking.

Episode 763: Microsoft's potty training

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 18:42:00 +0100

This week the team discuss Windows 10's role in the battle against software obsolescence, Clearview's slap down by the Information Commissioner’s Office, Equity's fight with AI and a return to pen and ink for British business.

Our Hot Hardware of the Week nominee is the Unifi UNAS-2

Episode 762: Don’t blame me, the AI was controlling my browser

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 17:28:00 +0100

The team discusses Qualcomm’s acquisition of Arduino, and AMD’s new partnership with OpenAI. We also look at the rise of AI-powered web browsing, plus Apple’s latest anti-Microsoft video. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Philips Brilliance 5K monitor, a feature-packed, high-quality display that costs less than you might expect.

Episode 761: Hey Google, are you actually going to be intelligent now?

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:40:00 +0100

The team discusses new smart home devices from both Amazon and Google, Spotify’s crackdown on AI-generated content, an experimental digital DJ for YouTube and the snazzy Raspberry Pi 500+. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the HiMont Kids Camera Instant Print, a fun little digital camera that produces receipt-style thermal printouts of whatever you choose to snap.

Episode 760: Not content with taking our jobs, AI is now taking our CVs too

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 14:59:00 +0100

The team discusses LinkedIn’s bid to use your professional data for AI training, Nvidia’s big partnership with Intel and Mark Zuckerberg’s latest attempt to get Facebook literally onto your face. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Devolo WiFi 6 Router 3600 5G, a fully featured Wi-Fi 6 router with a built-in SIM slot.

Episode 759: The dirty future of AI comes to Essex

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:36:00 +0100

The team discusses Google’s big investment in a new UK data centre – and the concomitant environmental cost. We also share frank opinions of Apple’s latest OS updates and find out what people are really using ChatGPT for. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the MSI Modern MD342CQPW, a dirt-cheap 34in widescreen monitor that’s perfect for working with multiple documents or driving a simulated truck across Europe.

Episode 758: For everyone who’s ever looked at an iPhone and thought “if only it were thinner”

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:06:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest product unveilings at Apple’s annual iPhone event, plus Tim’s pick of the announcements at IFA. We also discuss two new court rulings against Google – they never seem to win one – and a potential employment crisis hitting tech graduates. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the UniFi SuperLink, strictly speaking not a product but a protocol that promises to simultaneously simplify and enhance IoT deployment and management.

Episode 757: In which Google doesn’t have to sell Chrome after all

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:40:00 +0100

The team discusses a court victory for Google and the company’s proposal to restrict sideloading of unverified apps onto mobile devices. We also look at Microsoft’s new in-house AI models, and its plans to make OneDrive the default destination for Office documents. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Google Pixel 10 Pro, the latest Android “flagship” smartphone (I hate that word).

Episode 756: Life looks good at 100x zoom

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 14:57:00 +0100

The team discusses the UK government’s apparent climbdown over its previous demands for a back door into Apple users’ encrypted communications, and casts an eye over Google’s new range of Pixel 10 smartphones. We also look at who’s investing in Intel, and ponder how we feel about paying a subscription to unlock extra performance in your car. For the first time ever, we conclude with a “Hot Platform”, comprising the latest release of Blackmagic’s DaVinci Resolve video-editing software, the new URSA Cine Immersive camera and the Apple Vision Pro you’ll need in order to watch your immersive footage.

Episode 755: Just when you’re getting to know an AI…

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:49:00 +0100

The team discusses how OpenAI’s new GPT-5 model has proved disruptive in the worst possible sense, and how Starbucks in South Korea is fighting back against encroaching technology. We also look at Wikipedia’s failed legal challenge to the Online Safety Act, and the latest madness from Donald Trump. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Amazon Basics Adjustable Tablet Stand, a simple but highly effective solution for all your tablet-standing needs.

Episode 754: What might Windows look like in 2030? (And will it be running on Intel?)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:12:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s vision for the future of Windows, bad news for Intel’s hopes of reclaiming the CPU crown, and a suggestion that Amazon might look to monetise Alexa, through subscriptions, adverts – or both. We also look at how some politicians have been using AI, and introduce our Hot Hardware candidate, the £75 Redmi Watch 5.

Episode 753: We’re over 18 and we can prove it

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:33:00 +0100

Sorry, can we see your ID? Alright, you can listen as the team discusses the success - or otherwise - of the age-admission tests introduced by various adult sites in the UK in response to the latest legislation. Fortunately, we have lawyer and PC Pro contributor Olivia Whitcroft on hand to guide us through, while Jon Honeyball has put the tech to the test. Plus, Nik Rawlinson explains how Aeroflot was grounded by cyberattackers.

Our Hot Hardware this week is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, starting at a bargain £1,799.

Episode 752: Anker’s million product problem

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0100

This week the team discuss Google’s latest move to resolve the Pixel4a battery saga and Anker’s recall of over a million products. There’s the latest in the UK government’s stare down with Apple, Microsoft’s Sharepoint misery and HP’s move to recoup money from the Lynch estate over the Autonomy debacle.

Our Hot Hardware this week is the 60 GHz Building-to-Building Bridge from Ubiquiti.

The Anker recall details can be found at: https://www.anker.com/product-recalls

The Lumafield long read is here: https://www.lumafield.com/article/what-went-wrong-inside-these-recalled-power-banks

Episode 751: All your files are belong to WeTransfer – plus, we scratch any screen

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:01:00 +0100

The team discusses WeTransfer’s apparent grab for users’ data, a mooted merger of Android and Chrome OS and the industry fallout after a virtual band playing AI-generated music racked up a million streams on Spotify. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Erichsen Hardness Test Pencil Model 318, a mechanical implement designed specifically for scratching the screens on phones, tablets, etc.

Episode 750: Now no one can say we’ve lost the plot

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:44:00 +0100

The team discusses a new security threat to the Chrome and Edge browsers, some mischievous uses of AI, the latest developments in the Getty Images copyright case and a new tool in Gmail that makes it easy to unsubscribe from – well, some mailing lists. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Uuna Tek iDraw H A1 plotter; if you’d like to see it in action (sounding alarmingly like a dentist’s drill), visit https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lx5o0UO-8MQ

Episode 749: Thanks for the (biodegradable) memory

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:47:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s latest attempt to get people to ditch passwords, a new memory technology that dissolves on contact with water and an interesting proposal to make AI web crawlers pay for the content they scrape. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Sony SRS-XB100, a compact Bluetooth speaker with a low price and a big sound.

Episode 748: I did pirate it, your honour, but he pirated it first

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:18:00 +0100

The team discusses a new extended lifeline for Windows 10, a controversial court ruling concerning an AI firm’s use of copyright material and a novel scam that inserts malicious content directly into legitimate websites. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the TP-Link Archer BE550, a high-spec Wi-Fi 7 router at a reasonable price.

Episode 747: Don’t sleep on this AI mattress

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 15:11:00 +0100

The team laments the tale of a malfunctioning smart mattress that condemned its owner to a night of shivering misery. We also discuss Donald Trump’s surprise move into personal telephony, the latest update to the Apple Vision Pro and concerns over Chinese VPNs. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Chillblast Poseidon Ryzen 9 RTX 5090, a water-cooled gaming PC that costs as much as 17,500 Freddos.

Episode 746: Don’t step in the liquid glass – plus, Stability vs Getty

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 15:13:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest announcements from Apple’s annual developer conference, bids an uncertain welcome to Android 16, and debates a major lawsuit concerning the alleged misuse of stock images. We also look over Asus’ new Xbox-branded handheld gaming PC, and welcome the AI-powered Dia browser as our Hot Hardware candidate.

Episode 745: IMEI blocking, CityFibre's 5.5 Gigabit and an £87 bet to fix USB-C

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:56:00 +0100

The team dives into the spat between Apple, Google and the Met Police regarding phone theft in London, and debates whether IMEI blocking is the answer. We also look at CityFibre's rollout of 5.5Gbits/sec broadband and discuss the patchy state of UK connectivity. There's hope as Microsoft attempts to end the confusion around USB-C ports, and we ponder the impact of new Windows features landing in the EU. Our Hot Hardware candidate is a surprisingly good, but unbranded, motorised suction-cup phone mount bought from TikTok.

Episode 744: Not everyone’s getting rich off the AI gold rush

Thu, 29 May 2025 14:50:00 +0100

The team discusses how AI is diminishing the role of human software developers, and asks whether Nick Clegg is justified in his comments on copyright – or whether he’s been done dirty by the media. We also ponder whether or not we want our robots to look like humans, and learn how a Star Wars fan site was secretly operated by the CIA. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the IUMAKEVP wireless lavalier microphone – not exactly a prestige brand, but for £22 who’s complaining?

Episode 743: Google gets smarter – and more intrusive

Thu, 22 May 2025 15:21:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest announcements and innovations from the Google I/O conference, an unexpected acquisition for OpenAI and some new ideas for making online ads more obnoxious than ever. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the caberQU, a pocket-sized testing device that can tell you everything you could conceivably want to know about a USB cable.

Episode 742: Just hangin’ with my bots

Thu, 15 May 2025 15:08:00 +0100

The team discusses Mark Zuckerberg’s prediction that AI bots will soon become your friends, and ask whether students’ use of services like ChatGPT is stunting their education. We also note that Microsoft is now offering extended support for Windows 10 – at a price – and that coffee shops are starting to crack down on extended use of laptops. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Onyx Boox Palma 2, a pocket e-reader that runs Android apps.

Episode 741: Apple’s Airplay Worm, Chinese EVs and Google's AI Ad Push

Thu, 08 May 2025 17:03:00 +0100

This week the team discusses the Apple AirPlay flaw, the latest releases in Microsoft’s Surface range and why military staff are parking their Chinese EVs away from the office. We also ponder the ramifications for Google of adding adverts into their AI products.

This week’s Hot Hardware of the Week nominee is the Bambu Lab AMS

Episode 740: Is your phone more energy-efficient than a fridge?

Thu, 01 May 2025 16:24:00 +0100

The team discusses a major legal smackdown for Apple; new plans to label smartphones with battery life and repairability scores; and the mysterious ongoing cyber-attack on M&S. We also bid a resentful farewell to the first-generation Google Nest thermostat, and vote on whether the Netgear Nighthawk RS100 has what it takes to be crowned Hot Hardware of the Week.

Episode 739: Take a letter, ChatGPT

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:55:00 +0100

The team discusses the ongoing fallout from the EU’s legal sanctions against Apple and Meta, then gets properly stuck into the issues raised by the idea of AI “employees”. We also discuss ongoing legal proposals to force Google to sell off the Chrome browser, and our Hot Hardware candidate is the Anker MagGo power bank, a portable battery that doubles as a MagSafe-compatible wireless charging stand.

Episode 738: Can the law keep up with social media?

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 15:15:00 +0100

The team discusses a report urging UK authorities to get a grip on social media, along with the latest news from OpenAI and a controversial case of boxed, purchased software being disabled after a server shutdown. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the TP-Link PGW2440 kit, a (relatively) high-speed powerline networking system.

Episode 737: Trump's Technology Tariffs

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:03:00 +0100

🎉 Celebrate 18 Years of the PC Pro Podcast! 🎉

This week, the team dives into Donald Trump’s tariffs, unpacking their impact on tech companies across the globe. On a lighter note, sparks fly as they debate Bafta’s controversial pick for ‘The Most Influential Video Game of All Time’. Plus, don’t miss a cautionary tale about the dangers of using an AI avatar in court.

Hot Hardware of the Week: The Epson ET-3850 Inkjet Printer.

Framework’s statement on tariffs is here: https://frame.work/gb/en/blog/tariff-driven-price-and-availability-changes-for-us-customers

Episode 736: Email encryption, Donkey Kong and the LibGen fightback

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:42:00 +0100

This week the team mull over Google’s plan for email encryption and the perils of being the best at Donkey Kong. Frankly, he’s not as good as Funky Kong, but that’s only my opinion.

We also discuss the writing community’s retaliation to having their works used to train Meta’s AI whilst research about the impact of screen use on sleep health forces our hosts to make revelations about their bedtime routine.

The Hot Hardware this week is the Eizo FLT FlexScan 23.8” monitor packed with high impact sustainability credentials.

The Society of Authors' letter is here

Episode 735: You have been added to the group chat

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:35:00 +0100

The team discusses the US’ embarrassing Signal debacle, the latest boost to OpenAI’s image-generation capabilities and a proposal from Meta to offer Brits ad-free Facebook and Instagram services – for a price. We also explore a controversial update that wrecked battery life on out-of-support Pixel phones, and Barry pitches the £159 ErGear standing desk as this week’s Hot Hardware candidate.

Episode 734: Corporate Espionage, EuroStack and Google Gemini.

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:44:00 +0100

Join the team this week as they unravel the thrilling spy narrative at the heart of the Deel and Rippling battle. Discover Europe’s strategic plans to diversify its tech infrastructure and get the latest scoop on Google Gemini’s exciting new features.

Plus, our Hot Hardware pick is the ASUS Zenbook DUO laptop, a powerhouse with an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, 32GB of RAM, and stunning dual 14-inch OLED 3K touchscreens.

Episode 733: A new CEO for Intel, and batteries get a boost

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 15:58:00 +0100

The team discusses Framework’s latest range of upgradeable, repairable computers, plus Intel’s new CEO and a company promising faster charging and a longer lifespan for lithium-ion batteries. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the ProtoArc Tri-Fold Keyboard and Mouse, a full-sized desktop set that folds away for easy portability.

Episode 732: AI vexes judges, but enlightens conspiracy theorists

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 15:06:00 +0100

The team discusses ongoing cases of legal representatives relying on untrustworthy AI citations – while welcoming research suggesting that AI could help “deprogram” cult members and conspiracy theorists. We also look over Apple’s latest iPad, MacBook Air and Mac Studio models, and ponder how we feel about a new technology designed to neutralise regional accents on support calls. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ubiquiti UniFi Express 7, a tiny but powerful internet gateway appliance.

Episode 731: Alexa, let’s talk about AI

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 15:20:00 +0100

The team discusses the “Make It Fair” campaign, which hopes to see strict rules on the use of copyright material to train AI systems. We also explore Amazon’s new Alexa Plus service, HP’s intentionally slow customer support and the removal of Apple’s data-protection tool in the UK. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Geekom A6, a tiny but powerful desktop PC.

Episode 730: The quantum chip

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:50:00 +0100

Your quiz: which member of the PC Pro podcast crew became overexcited about Microsoft’s quantum chip? Who was damning about IT mis-spends by government bodies? Which team member thinks the most exciting thing about Apple’s iPhone 16e is its 5G modem? And who was grumpy about it all? As a clue, you have Jon, Barry, Tim and Rois to choose from. Plus, our Hot Hardware of the week is a NAS drive one podcaster bought that now includes 184TB of usable storage. But no prizes for guessing that one.

Episode 729: Return of the Snooper’s Charter

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 16:24:31 +0100

The team discusses the UK’s demand for Apple to break its own encryption, an unexpected drop in average CPU power, Adobe’s amazing new AI-generated video platform, and the man hoping to recover a fortune in Bitcoins from a municipal landfill site. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the AirCard Pro, a credit-card-shaped Bluetooth tracker that’ll work with an Apple or Android phone – but not both.

Episode 728: If you don't like it, have an AI check your contract

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 17:19:42 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft's crackdown on those running Windows 11 on unapproved hardware, a new AI tool that can help make sense of legalese and Intel's admission that its next-generation AI chip isn't good enough to release. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Nighthawk RS200, a Wi-Fi 7 router at the knock-down price of £200.

Episode 727: Some AI engines are free; others come at a hefty price (whether you want them or not)

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 16:15:10 +0100

The team discusses the disruptive emergence of China’s open-source DeepSeek AI engine, steep price hikes for Microsoft Office and Amazon’s vision for drones over Darlington. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Toybox, a user-friendly 3D printer aimed at kids.

Episode 726: Is time running out for TikTok?

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 17:16:46 +0100

The team discusses the will-they-won’t-they drama of the US TikTok ban, the latest lunacy in the AI industry and UK government proposals to replace physical driving licences with an app. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Anker Prime 250W USB charger, a six-port power supply costing a cool £170.

Episode 725: You must be 18 or over to download this podcast

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 17:12:03 +0100

The team discusses plans to force websites to check visitors’ ages, drones causing mayhem and Meta’s newly relaxed attitude as to whether social media posts are true or not. Our Hot Software candidate is NordVPN – not a new product, but one that Barry Collins recently found a big help on his travels.

Episode 724: Viva Las Vegas! Or, three go slightly loopy at CES

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 13:45:02 +0100

In a special podcast report – recorded in Las Vegas in the small hours of the morning – Barry Collins, Tim Danton and Jon Honeyball discuss what they've seen at the Consumer Electronics Show 2025. Topics include Nvidia's latest graphics chips, a new generation of mini PCs and upcoming developments in laptop screens, AR glasses and gaming handhelds. The delegates also nominate their Hot Hardware picks of CES – a gaming chair with integrated air conditioning, a hot-swap system for phone batteries and an innovative new desktop appliance for laser engraving.

Episode 723: Our 2024 Tech Quiz Extravaganza

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:20:00 +0100

Get ready for the PC Pro Podcast's festive quiz extravaganza!

Darien Graham-Smith returns as quizmaster, challenging podcast regulars Barry Collins, Tim Danton, Lee Grant, Jon Honeyball, and Rois Ni Thuama on 2024's biggest tech stories.

From AI to product launches, our panel will put their tech knowledge to the test.

Episode 722: New chatbots – more intelligent than ever, and just as artificial

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 15:42:16 +0100

The team discusses the arrival of new, smarter AI systems – plus one that’s accused of endangering impressionable kids. We also welcome an innovative battery technology and cast an eye over the latest hardware offerings from Raspberry Pi. Out Hot Hardware candidate is the HP OmniBook Flip, a slim but versatile laptop that ticks all the boxes.

Episode 721: Who can save Intel now?

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 16:40:04 +0100

The team discusses the surprise ousting of Intel’s CEO, questions the planned merger between Vodafone and Three and asks what dangers might be lurking in an innocent-looking USB cable. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Smartech GoChess Mini, an intelligent chess board that plays against you.

Episode 720: Microsoft in the crosshairs, just for a change

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 18:05:21 +0100

The team discusses reports of yet another antitrust investigation in the offing against Microsoft, and the company’s latest attempts to get people off Windows 10. We also look at how Google is injecting content onto other people’s websites, and consider whether we’d buy a new phone from Huawei that ditches Android in favour of the company’s own HarmonyOS Next platform. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Showscreen 14in portable touchscreen, a slimline display that does precisely what you’d expect for under £100.

Episode 719: The good and the bad of Microsoft's $349 cloud PC

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 15:47:15 +0100

Microsoft announced that it would be selling companies a $349 black box that's ideal for big rollouts - all you need is a Windows Cloud subscription, a monitor, keyboard and mouse. Jon, Tim and Barry deliver their verdict. Plus all the other highlights from Ignite 2024, Flight Simulator 2024's failure to launch and a business-friendly Moto phone that might just win Tim a hot hardware of the week...

Episode 718: Tweeters head for bluer skies

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:03:23 +0100

The team discusses the accelerating exodus from Elon Musk’s social media platform, the EU’s latest quarrel with Apple and what’s coming in Wi-Fi 8. Lee Grant also walks us through a quartet of sustainability-related news stories, and our Hot Hardware candidate is the tiny but powerful Mac Mini.

Episode 717: All right, you can keep using Windows 10 – but it’ll cost you

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:30:13 +0100

The team asks whether Windows 10 users will pay $30 to keep using the OS for another year, discusses ChatGPT’s new search capabilities and ponders whether Intel’s latest financial losses are anything to worry about. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Apple Thunderbolt 5 cable, a pricey interconnect with a whole lot of bandwidth.

Episode 716: Mini PC spooktacular from M4 Mac mini to a Raspberry Pi case

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:33:09 +0100

Tim, Rois and Jon dissect all the just-announced products from Apple, particularly the M4 Mac mini, before discussing why email remains such a danger. Plus, regular listener Geoff Campbell nominates a Raspberry Pi case as the Hot Hardware of the week. It went down rather well...

Episode 715: Don’t blame me, the AI did it!

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:31:42 +0100

Regular magazine contributor Olivia Whitcroft joins Barry, Darien and Jon as we discuss a new AI tool that can control your PC, proposals to ban smartphones at school and an acrimonious dispute at WordPress. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Krafted Connex, a pocket-sized multi-adaptor that can be used to charge a variety of devices from a regular USB socket.

Episode 714: The PC Pro Podcast Live! – Part Two

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:54:01 +0100

In the second part of our special live podcast, Barry Collins, Tim Danton, Darien Graham-Smith, Jon Honeyball and Rois ni Thuama look to the future and predict how technology will change the world in the next decade. We also nominate our Hot Hardware picks of the past 30 years, and take questions from the audience on quite a range of themes.

Episode 713: The PC Pro Podcast Live! – Part One

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 12:02:37 +0100

Part one of a special two-part podcast with a live audience to celebrate 30 years of PC Pro. Barry Collins, Tim Danton, Darien Graham-Smith, Jon Honeyball and Rois ni Thuama look back and discuss the most significant tech innovations and events of the past three decades, before pitting their knowledge against audience members in a short, unseasonal quiz.

Episode 712: Is Microsoft actually listening?

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:04:51 +0100

The team discusses all that’s new in the Windows 11 24H2 update, explores the innards of the latest iPhone and cautiously welcomes the arrests of four individuals believed to be major players in the murky world of ransomware. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max, the biggest and most powerful iPhone ever.

Episode 711: I’m a subscriber – get me out of here!

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 15:49:34 +0100

The team discusses a new law that should make it easier to cancel unwanted subscriptions, the latest announcements from Meta’s Connect conference and legal woes for celebrity YouTuber MrBeast. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Intel’s Lunar Lake SoC, which promises new heights of laptop performance and battery life.

Episode 710: Exploding pagers, repair with iOS 18 and Microsoft 365 CoPilot Wave 2

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:56:00 +0100

The team explore some of the technical explanations to the exploding pagers detonated in the Middle East. We examine Apple's iOS18 efforts to satisfy right to repair legislation then try not exhaust ourselves from the excitement of Microsoft Copilot Wave 2.

Our Hot Hardware candidate for this week is the Honor Magic 3 phone...or..camera with phone...you decide...

Episode 709: Meet the new iPhones (intelligence not included)

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:11:31 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s new iPhone 16 handsets, asks whether AI is really stealing jobs and argues over whether kids should be banned from social media. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Orbi 770, the first home mesh we’ve seen to support Wi-Fi 7’s multi-band MLO capability.

Episode 708: Are we over the moon about Intel’s latest CPUs – or are they just pie in the sky?

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:45:34 +0100

The team discusses the latest launches at IFA, including the new chips that Intel hopes will put it back on the map. We also ask whether the USB Type-A connector is finally on its way out, and whether we need to worry about a new vulnerability discovered in Yubikey security tokens. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the IcyBox IB-180MC-C31, a USB M.2 enclosure that’s every bit as versatile as its name implies.

Episode 707: The Coldest Hot Hardware Ever

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 15:20:27 +0100

Before we get to the worst hot hardware ever, you will discover the team's take on Telegram's CEO being arrested in France; non-buying-advice thoughts on Nvidia's latest share price; back doors baked into RFID passes; and discover exactly what the Plaud NotePin is. And then you will be swept up in amazement when Barry pitches a mechanical keyboard that he clearly doesn't like much as Hot Hardware of the Week.

https://www.plaud.ai/products/notepin
https://www.hhkeyboard.com/uk/products/hhkb-studio

Episode 706: If you’re looking for “Brand Love”, prepare to be disappointed

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 14:15:14 +0100

The team discusses the untimely death of British tech mogul Mike Lynch, while Elon Musk flounces out of Brazil and Microsoft prepares to roll out its controversial Windows Recall AI feature. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the MSI Cubi NUC 1M, a powerful PC with a compact case and a (reasonably) modest price.

Episode 705: Hey Google, why should I buy your new phone?

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 14:21:28 +0100

The team eyes up the new Pixel devices launched at Google’s annual “Made by Google” event, asks what Mozilla can do to stay relevant and ponders the news that fresh Windows 11 installations will now have full-device encryption enabled by default. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Keychron K8, a sturdy wireless keyboard with mechanical switches and a charmingly retro colour scheme.

Episode 704: An old friend returns (to plug her book)

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 14:58:30 +0100

Nicole Kobie joins the podcast to discuss her new book, “The Long History of the Future: Why Tomorrow's Technology Still Isn't Here”. We also discuss the government’s shelving of unfunded plans for an AI supercomputer, Elon Musk’s latest antics and the significance of a US judgment that finds Google used illegal means to maintain its monopoly on web searches. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Inateck BK2007, an affordable keyboard case for the 2024 iPad Air.

Episode 703: Who’d want to deepfake this?

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 14:28:24 +0100

The team discusses awkward times for Intel as it sheds jobs and rushes to fix failing chips; we also ponder Reddit’s hard line on AI scraping, and welcome upcoming legal protections aimed at preventing companies from cloning our voices and appearances. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Nighthawk RS300, a Wi-Fi 7 router that you might actually be able to afford.

Episode 702: Dissecting CrowdStrike

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 17:45:15 +0100

The team discusses the global CrowdStrike catastrophe, dissects the official word on Intel CPU hiccups and learns why some NVIDIA graphics cards are no longer cool.

Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Apple Vision Pro.

Episode 701: In which nobody alleges anything about anyone’s CPUs

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:40:33 +0100

The team discusses reports of failing Intel processors, meets Samsung’s latest health-inspired wearable and looks forward to a future filled with AI-generated videos and presentations, courtesy of Google. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Unistellar Odyssey Pro Smart Telescope. What, would you have preferred another keyboard?

Episode 700: Whose content is it anyway?

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 14:17:31 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s optimistic claim that all material published online is fair game for AI training; ponders reports of TeamViewer being hacked by the Russians; and looks at who’s still buying commercial antivirus software. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Tapo D230S1, a smart, subscription-free doorbell-cum-camera.

Episode 699: Microsoft Teams in the firing line

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 15:18:44 +0100

On this week’s podcast we discuss the EU’s legal action against Microsoft for bundling Teams with Office, debate the US government’s banning of Kaspersky Internet Security and look at what the UK’s major political parties are promising – technology-wise – in their election manifestos. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Surface Laptop 7, the flagbearer of Microsoft’s new ARM-powered Copilot+ PC range.

Episode 698: Skip to 47m 46s for the AI sex robots

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:26:07 +0100

The team ponders rumours of a new, cheaper Apple Vision headset, and debates whether the original Apple Vision Pro has been a flop. We also look at flaky Intel Core i9 processors, welcome the US government’s legal action against Adobe and learn about a new social media platform that’s intentionally populated by AI bots. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Unifi U7 Pro Max, the first business access point we’ve seen with Wi-Fi 7.

Episode 697: We call it Apple Intelligence, and you’re going to love it

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 14:42:37 +0100

The team discusses the latest announcements from Apple’s WWDC conference, while Elon Musk drops his lawsuit against OpenAI and HP laments falling print volumes. Our Hot Hardware candidate is once more a piece of software, viz. the latest edition of Adobe Lightroom.

Episode 696: The sound of a million toothbrushes falling silent

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:15:42 +0100

The team discusses growing security concerns over Microsoft’s new Windows Recall feature, a storm in a toothmug over Oral B’s discontinued smart bathroom products, and Intel and AMD’s latest salvoes in the unfolding TOPS war. As sometimes happens, our Hot Hardware candidate is actually a piece of software, namely the latest release of the free LibreOffice suite.

Episode 695: Every kid needs a smartwatch, right?

Thu, 30 May 2024 15:23:01 +0100

The team is split over Google's wisdom in selling a smartwatch - plus subscription fee - for kids. Plus, our take on what's going on at OpenAI, why iFixit has broken up with Samsung and what we can learn from the "leak" of Google's search algorithm. And our Hot Hardware candidate is the Panasonic Toughbook 55 Mk3, a semi-rugged but portable laptop.

Links:
https://blog.google/products/fitbit/fitbit-ace-lte-smartwatch-kids/
https://www.ft.com/content/ccbdff7c-ede3-4d62-968d-189fb0205075
Custom GPTs open for free ChatGPT users - The Verge
HUGE Google Search document leak reveals inner workings of ranking algorithm (searchengineland.com)
Why turning motherboards to jelly could be a sustainability breakthrough thanks to vPCBs | TechFinitive
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cqee727vnzmo
Tape is so dead, 152.9 exabytes of LTO shipped in 2023 • The Register
Panasonic Toughbook FZ-55 Full HD Touch Screen Mk3 14" Rugged Windows 11 Pro Notebook. From £2115.00 plus VAT (ultima-computers.co.uk)

Episode 694: Introducing the Copilot+ PC

Thu, 23 May 2024 14:01:16 +0100

The team explores Microsoft’s new Arm-based, AI-focused vision for Windows PCs; we also discuss the postponement of the UK landline switch-off, and ask how worried we should be about old web pages dropping offline. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Pixel 8a, the cheaper, smaller version of Google’s flagship smartphone.

Episode 693: Google talks AI (just for a change), plus some intriguing leaks from Dell

Thu, 16 May 2024 14:44:13 +0100

The team discusses the latest announcements from Google’s I/O conference, leaked details of upcoming ARM-based Windows laptops and OpenAI’s new smarter-than-ever large language model. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Barry’s brand-new 13in iPad Pro – the latest M4 model with all the trimmings.

Episode 692: Super-slim iPads, and @jack says bye bye to BlueSky

Thu, 09 May 2024 19:13:58 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s new M4-powered iPads, Ofcom’s proposals to keep kids safe online and Jack Dorsey’s quiet departure from the Twitter rival he founded. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Pokit Pro, a handy Bluetooth tool that serves as a multimeter, oscilloscope and more.

Episode 691: Cracking down on crackable passwords, plus a touch of Vertigo

Thu, 02 May 2024 14:16:41 +0100

The team discusses new UK legislation that outlaws insecure default passwords, questions Google’s enormous payments to Apple and learns very little from Tim’s trip to Hungary. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Lenovo Legion Go, a handheld gaming PC that runs full Windows.

Episode 690: Barry gets shirty with Photoshop, while TikTok could be banned

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:07:16 +0100

The team discusses the latest generative AI features added to Photoshop, considers the prospect of a US-wide ban on TikTok and revisits the eternal debate as to whether 8GB of RAM is enough for a laptop. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Passmark USB Power Delivery Tester, a clever tool that measures just how many watts your USB power supply is really putting out.

Episode 689: Never mind AI PCs, we’ve got smart NPCs

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 14:00:16 +0100

The team discusses new adverts popping up in Windows, an attempted deepfake attack on LastPass and the latest AI gaming innovations from Nvidia. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus RT-AX57 Go, a fully functional Wi-Fi 6 router that fits in your pocket.

Episode 688: New Google projects, AI and more, live from the departure lounge

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 14:10:57 +0100

The team discusses Google’s new video presentation tool, AI-based exam marking and how the UK police plan to use facial recognition to crack down on shoplifting. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Gurgle Apps Wi-Fi Word Clock, a fun and (just about) practical project based on the Raspberry Pi Pico W.

Episode 687: Hacking hotel door locks, Spotify's price rise and why Samsung's Bixby lives on.

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:40:00 +0100

The team refuses to talk AI this week, instead focusing on a hack that bypasses hotel door locks, the latest Spotify price rises and why Samsung believes that Bixby is still worth backing. Plus, how much it costs to keep Windows 10 running, 20 years of Gmail and Barry tries to convince the panel that a pair of smart glasses should be Hot Hardware of the Week.

Links mentioned in this week's episode:

https://predr.ag/blog/wifi-only-works-when-its-raining/

https://ee.co.uk/smart-tech/smart-tech/tcl-nextwear-s-plus

And finally, our thanks to Nick Gassman for his much-needed help with the recording!

Episode 686: Microsoft AI Surface, Oregon’s Right-To-Repair and X prepares to unleash Grok.

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 16:59:07 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft's Surface devices with AI capabilities, Oregon's new right-to-repair legislation, Affinity software's acquisition by Canva and X’s upcoming chatbot, Grock. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Seagate's 20TB Exos X20 enterprise hard drive.

To get your hands on a signed copy of Stuart Turton's latest book - The Last Murder at the End of the World - click this link to the Waterstones bookshop.

Episode 685: More AI machinations, and Lee talks plastics

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:58:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s appointment of a new CEO of AI, the shocking story of a SIM-swapper and the truth about recyclable plastic packaging. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the HP Spectre Fold 17, a tablet-cum-laptop with a huge folding screen that can be yours for just cough-mumble pounds.

Episode 684: Apple finally opens up its app platform – sort of, grudgingly

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:27:21 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s plans to lower the fences on its walled garden, Airbnb’s ban on surveillance cameras and Tim Berners-Lee’s future tech predictions. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Synology BeeStation, a simple, low-cost NAS appliance designed to replace Google Drive and other cloud storage services.

Episode 683: Linux on the up, Apple smacked down

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:37:01 +0100

The team discusses a new milestone in Linux adoption, Apple’s bad-tempered compliance with new EU gatekeeping law and the latest spats in the world of AI. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Keychron C3 Pro keyboard; honestly, I can’t remember what’s supposed to be special about this one but Barry loves it.

Episode 682: Tim’s back from MWC, Nvidia’s CEO says kids shouldn’t code and there’s trouble in Wonkaland

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:47:33 +0100

The team discusses the latest product launches at MWC in Barcelona, the end of Apple’s long-rumoured electric car project, AI coding predictions and a chocolate-themed disaster in Glasgow. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Millennium Falcon Multi-Tool, a compact multi-tool in the shape of – well, you figure it out.

Episode 681: AI goes bonkers, the DoJ hacks your router and Amazon unveils the new Echo Hub

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 15:25:46 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s new chipmaking deal with Intel, and rounds up the latest developments in the world of AI. We also discuss the DoJ’s controversial “white-hat” hacking of infected routers, and Amazon’s new Echo Hub smart-home controller. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Cetaitun Firewall Mini PC, a cheap, compact, silent computer with six Ethernet ports…

And if you like the sound of that, you can buy it here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CJC4J5RC

Episode 680: No, Mark, the Meta Quest 3 isn't better than the Apple Vision Pro

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:38:00 +0100

In a week where Mark Zuckerberg declares the Meta Quest 3 is better than the Apple Vision Pro, the team - Rois, Jon, Barry and Tim - beg to disagree. Plus, why proving that you’re the creator of Bitcoin is tricky, Barry’s take on Otter’s attempt to usurp Copilot in Teams and Barry attempts to persuade everyone (including himself) that the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 should be Hot Hardware of the Week.

PC Pro Podcast 679

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 15:16:55 +0100

The team discusses skyrocketing investments in AI and cloud hardware; a collapse of employee morale at Google; and a clever trick that breaks Microsoft’s BitLocker disk encryption. We also ask how worried we should be by reports of electric toothbrushes being absorbed into malicious botnets, and round up the latest developments in right-to-repair legislation. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ubiquiti UniFi Enterprise 8 PoE, a high-speed Layer 3 network switch costing under £500.

Finally, as promised, here’s a guide to enabling a BitLocker PIN in Windows 11: https://www.elevenforum.com/t/enable-or-disable-bitlocker-to-unlock-os-drive-at-startup-with-pin-and-usb-in-windows-11.4140/

PC Pro Podcast 678

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:44:23 +0100

The team discusses the first full reviews of Apple’s Vision Pro headset, new moves to regulate AI abuses, dissatisfaction over the UK government’s security plans and the serious consequences of “swatting”. Out Hot Hardware candidate is the Ubiquiti U7 Pro, the first wireless access point we’ve seen with Wi-Fi 7.

PC Pro Podcast 677

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 16:40:19 +0100

The PC Pro team discuss the implications of Amazon Ring sharing information with the Police and how Apple is reacting to the implementation of side-loading apps onto its devices. We look at Microsoft's planned upgrade of USB4 and chat about HP's plans to turn PCs into a subscription business. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung S24 Ultra

PC Pro Podcast 676

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 15:25:51 +0100

The team discusses a pending lawsuit over ChatGPT’s notorious hallucinations, a mixed reception for Apple’s mixed-reality – sorry, “spatial” – headset, and independent confirmation that Google’s search results are getting worse. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Fairphone Fairbuds XL, an environmentally friendly pair of over-the-ear headphones.

PC Pro Podcast 675

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:32:51 +0100

In an on-location special, the team reports back from Las Vegas with their picks of the products and technologies unveiled at CES 2024.

PC Pro Podcast 674

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 15:30:22 +0100

The team is joined by CTA director Brian Comiskey for a look ahead to next week’s CES 2024 expo. We also discuss the technologies and companies that we said goodbye to during 2023, explore the US’ brief Apple Watch ban and consider new features coming to Windows. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the HP Envy Move, a “luggable” all-in-one PC with a 24in screen and a four-hour battery.

PC Pro Podcast 673

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 18:55:58 +0100

It’s time for the PC Pro podcast's festive quiz: Darien Graham-Smith takes the chair and subjects podcast regulars Barry Collins, Tim Danton, Lee Grant, Jon Honeyball and Rois Ni Thuama to a thorough grilling on the big tech stories of 2023.

PC Pro Podcast 672

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 18:39:25 +0100

The team is in a reflective mood, discussing the key AI developments of 2023, including how its use is crossing into the legal world. We celebrate landmark Right to Repair victories and chat about how fibre broadband has powered the work-from-home revolution. We ask why Spotify is laying of 17% of its workforce and look at VR for Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Hot hardware for this week is the TCL NXTPAPER 11 tablet.

PC Pro Podcast 671

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:56:51 +0100

The team discusses new proposals for age verification on adult websites; a security threat affecting almost every Windows and Linux computer; predictions of doom for the Firefox browser; and the latest developments in quantum computing. Once again we have two Hot Hardware candidates – a tiny pocket spot welder and a compact torch capable of beaming out a dazzling 4,000 lumens.

PC Pro Podcast 670

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:18:24 +0100

In a packed show, the team discusses topics including Samsung’s acquisition of smart music streaming service Roon, British Library data leaking onto the dark web, a possible fraud investigation into Elon Musk and some unfortunate misdirection in Google Maps. As if that weren’t enough, we look at two Hot Hardware candidates – the Dremel 3-in-1 Multi-Vise and the Divoom Timebox.

And here’s the video of the AirJet laptop cooler: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0k46Wnq3Rk

PC Pro Podcast 669

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 16:00:38 +0100

The team discusses a turbulent weekend for OpenAI’s senior management, new developments in the battle of blue vs. green messaging bubbles, and Google’s latest moves to put pressure on ad-blockers. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Honor Pad X9, a big-screen Android tablet costing just £140.

PC Pro Podcast 668

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:41:00 +0100

The team discusses the big announcements from Microsoft’s Ignite conference, including new in-house chips for Azure, a name change for Bing Chat and custom apps for Copilot Studio. We also consider Meta’s call for parental controls in app stores and Google’s new experiment in allowing users to annotate search results. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Eero Max 7, the first Wi-Fi 7 mesh to reach these shores.

PC Pro Podcast 667

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:24:08 +0100

The team discusses the first indications of how the UK’s online safety measures will be enforced; the launch of new user-configurable GPT bots; and discontent over Apple’s dubious RAM claims. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Bambu Lab P1P, an affordable and easy-to-use 3D printer.

PC Pro Podcast 666

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 15:05:23 +0100

The team discusses steps towards the global regulation of AI systems, Apple’s new “scary fast” M3 Macs and criminal charges for the SolarWinds CISO who was at the helm during a disastrous cyberattack. Our Hot Hardware candidate is VisiWave Site Survey 7, a nifty tool for mapping out wireless network coverage.

PC Pro Podcast 665

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 15:10:58 +0100

The team asks whether Microsoft was right to abandon its mobile phone platform; looks forward to faster ARM chips for Windows; and ponders new efforts to defeat fake reviews. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 – it’s been out for a little while, but have we grown to love it?

PC Pro Podcast 664

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:29:49 +0100

The team is joined by Fiona Dear of the Restart Project to discuss the upcoming International Repair Day; we also consider plans to offer GCSE exams on laptops and Qualcomm’s new Android chip based on the open-source RISC-V architecture. Our Hot Hardware candidate is an iPhone 12 Mini, originally released in 2020 but newly acquired by real-worlder Lee Grant.

LINKS:

International Repair Day is on Saturday 21 October 2023 and there are events all over the planet, many of them in the UK. There’s an interactive map so you can find out what is happening in your area: https://openrepair.org/international-repair-day/2023-events/

If you can’t attend in person, Global Fixers are running an online repair cafe on Saturday between 11am and 2pm - https://discord.gg/WZd4xWd

To find other Restart Parties and community repair events in your area, visit: https://therestartproject.org/parties/

Fiona Dear (https://therestartproject.org/about/who-we-are/) is the Co-Director of The Restart Project (https://therestartproject.org)

PC Pro Podcast 663

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 14:43:54 +0100

The team discusses Google’s plan to phase out passwords, proposals aimed at improving the trustworthiness of AI-generated images and a new OS that puts your personal PC in the cloud. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer Chromebook Plus 515, one of the first ChromeOS laptops to bear the new “Plus” branding.

PC Pro Podcast 662

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:38:00 +0100

The team discusses a competition probe into Amazon and Microsoft’s cloud services, new phones and software from Google, and an unusual upgrade that converts an Intel laptop to AMD. As happens from time to time, our Hot Hardware candidate is a piece of software, namely the AI-powered Arc Max browser.

PC Pro Podcast 661

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:23:37 +0100

The team discusses the latest product releases and updates from Microsoft’s AI and Surface event – plus all the news from Meta Connect. Meanwhile, a major bank bans cryptocurrency payments and the Raspberry Pi 5 makes its debut. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Rolling Square AirCard, an Apple-compatible location tag that fits in your wallet.

PC Pro Podcast 660

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:17:00 +0100

The team discusses product chief Panos Panay’s departure from Microsoft, the latest software and device launches from Amazon and mixed news on tech sustainability. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Linksys’ Velop Pro 6E, the cheapest Wi-Fi 6E mesh currently on the market.

PC Pro Podcast 659

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:48:45 +0100

The team discusses a critical bug in a popular online image format, a ransomware attack that shut down a string of major hotels, and the latest news from Apple’s “Wonderlust” event. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Adobe Firefly, the AI-powered image-generation tool that’s now fully built into Photoshop.

PC Pro Podcast 658

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:01:09 +0100

The team discusses the UK government’s climbdown on banning end-to-end encryption, a welcome change in Windows 11 and the prospect of Apple’s first iPhone with USB Type-C charging. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Geekom Mini IT 13, a compact and powerful PC for a very modest price.

PC Pro Podcast 657

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:15:41 +0100

This week the team is joined by airline pilot Gavin Hall to discuss the recent collapse of the UK’s air traffic control system. We talk about Elon’s plan to add voice calling to X and Apple’s sudden support for Right to Repair. Additionally we look at the new Fairphone 5 and reveal why it can be so hard to order a McFlurry. Our hot hardware this week is the WiPry Clarity from Oscium.

PC Pro Podcast 656

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:48:14 +0100

The team discusses plans to float chip designer Arm on the Nasdaq stock exchange; the latest twist in Microsoft’s proposed acquisition of Activision; and a report suggesting that 40% of workers will need AI training in the coming years. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, the company’s latest, shiniest, most waterproof Android tablet.

PC Pro Podcast 655

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 15:22:09 +0100

Real-World contributor Rois Ni Thuama joins the podcast as we discuss reports of defective SanDisk SSDs, Google and Amazon’s latest plans for generative AI and the legal fallout from recent data breaches in Northern Ireland. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5, a clamshell-style smartphone.

PC Pro Podcast 654

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 15:19:06 +0100

The team discusses a concerning spate of institutional data leaks, asks whether Facebook really affects your mental health, and raises an eyebrow at Zoom’s demand for employees to start coming into the office. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Hak5 Packet Squirrel Mark II, a pocket-sized network-monitoring device.

PC Pro Podcast 653

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:36:47 +0100

The team discusses Intel’s return to profitability, warnings that a discarded printer could leak your Wi-Fi password, and an under-the-bonnet refactoring for Chrome OS. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus RT-AX59U, a compact Wi-Fi 6 router that’s crammed with high-end features for a very reasonable price.

PC Pro Podcast 652

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 14:28:25 +0100

The team discusses the new products launched at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, the abrupt renaming of Twitter and the potential dangers of overheating e-bike batteries. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP, a USB microphone aimed at podcasters, streamers and anyone else wanting to capture high-quality vocal recordings.

PC Pro Podcast 651

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 14:14:51 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s AI-powered Copilot service, a new type of wireless networking based on infrared light, and the unexpected consequences of Netflix’ crackdown on password sharing. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ubiquiti WiFiMan Wizard, a tiny portable Wi-Fi scanner that works with an iPhone to analyse and troubleshoot network connections in any location.

PC Pro Podcast 650

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:13:31 +0100

The team discusses a potentially significant resignation in the emerging XR market, says farewell to Intel’s diminutive NUC platform, and looks back over a huge first week for Threads. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Inventr.io Adventure Kit 2, a pack of components that introduces kids to electronic engineering through a series of hands-on challenges themed around a thrilling space adventure.

PC Pro Podcast 649

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 15:01:54 +0100

The team discusses Twitter’s latest travails and the arrival of Meta’s new Threads app; controversy over the use of facial recognition to crack down on shoplifters; and the latest accomplishments of AI researchers. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Synology DVA1622, a NAS appliance with built-in security camera support and machine-learning functions for smart surveillance capabilities.

PC Pro Podcast 648

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 14:26:38 +0100

The team discusses the Australian PM’s surprisingly on-point cybersecurity advice; a new privacy-focused browser from DuckDuckGo; more criticism of the UK’s proposed anti-encryption laws; and how Wimbledon is using AI to analyse player pairings. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Cherry UM 9.0 Pro RGB, a multicoloured microphone aimed at streamers – check out some sample recordings at pcpro.link/347cherry.

PC Pro Podcast 647

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:57:29 +0100

The team asks whether Amazon makes it unreasonably difficult for customers to unsubscribe from Prime. We also cautiously welcome quantum breakthroughs from Intel and Microsoft, and ponder Lenovo’s new initiatives aimed at making its laptops greener and more repairable. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Geekom AS 6, a mini-PC with a powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor.

PC Pro Podcast 646

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 14:31:30 +0100

The team discusses the ongoing protests against changes to Reddit’s API policies, unexpected warnings popping up on WD Red hard drives, and the EU’s threat to break up Google. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the SmallRig video cage kit, a versatile case that lets you attach grips, stands and other photographic accessories to the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

But of course we know what you’re really interested in is Intel’s new monospaced font, and you can download it from here: https://github.com/intel/intel-one-mono

PC Pro Podcast 645

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:32:32 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s latest product announcements, including the Vision Pro and the new MacBook Air, Mac Studio and Mac Pro computers. We also try out new AI features in the online Adobe Express productivity suite. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the LG gram SuperSlim, an ultra-thin laptop with a 15.6in OLED screen.

PC Pro Podcast 644

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 18:02:04 +0100

We look into what really happens when electronics are recycled in the UK, why Reddit is getting pricey for some and ask how green HP printers are. The team reminisce about discontinued Amazon services before voting on our Hot Hardware candidate: Viture XR glasses.

View the statement from Safe.AI at: https://www.safe.ai/statement-on-ai-risk

PC Pro Podcast 643

Thu, 25 May 2023 15:00:52 +0100

The team discusses the latest revelations from Microsoft’s Build conference, a slow start for Wi-Fi 7 and a major win for right-to-repair advocates. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Motorola Moto G13, a dirt-cheap phone that’s good enough to be your daily driver.

PC Pro Podcast 642

Thu, 18 May 2023 14:36:32 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s controversial new antivirus measure, an epidemic of broadband cancellations and warnings about AI-generated music. Our Hot Hardware candidate is a 2013 Apple iMac, with a Core i5-4570S CPU and 8GB of RAM.

PC Pro Podcast 641

Thu, 11 May 2023 14:49:44 +0100

The team discusses a new technology that could enhance VR experiences with digitally generated smells; casts an eye over the latest products announced at Google’s I/O conference; and tentatively welcomes a new tax on crypto-mining. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung T7 Shield, a high-speed portable SSD that’s designed to survive splashes and bashes.

PC Pro Podcast 640

Thu, 04 May 2023 14:23:57 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s new plan to design its own CPUs, the UK’s attempts to regulate the fast-growing AI market and how Bluesky Social is challenging Mastodon to become the next Twitter. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Insta360 X3, an action camera with all-round vision and built-in image stabilisation.

PC Pro Podcast 639

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:18:51 +0100

The team discusses the blocking of Microsoft’s proposed acquisition of Activision, accusations of shady spyware features in the Edge browser, and a new UK law that would clamp down on fake reviews and free trials that silently turn into paid subscriptions. Our Hot Hardware candidate is three bottles of beer costing £79 – courtesy of Elon Musk.

PC Pro Podcast 638

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 17:04:27 +0100

The team discusses the backlash against the UK government’s anti-encryption plans, Reddit’s plans to charge for API access and the death of the computer magazine – in the US, at least. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Panasonic ToughBook 40, a laptop you can take into the jungle with you.

PC Pro Podcast 637

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:33:22 +0100

The team discusses the future of 5G in the UK, the BBC’s illuminating interview with Twitter CEO Elon Musk and a new VPN that’s helping Russians evade censorship. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the NUC 13 Pro, Intel’s latest and greatest small-box PC.

PC Pro Podcast 636

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 17:42:20 +0100

eng||This week, Western Digital’s security incident goes under the microscope and the team talk about the investigation into Amazon and Microsoft’s place in the market. We briefly discuss the latest happens at Twitter and ponder what happened to Virginmedia’s service this week. Our Hot Software candidate is Midjourney 5 (take a look: https://www.midjourney.com)

PC Pro Podcast 635

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 17:26:03 +0100

This week the team discuss the upcoming changes to Microsoft Teams with a genuine Microsoft MVP as well as what happened when TikTok appeared before US Congress. We catch up with the latest attempts to regulate AI and mark the passing of technology legend, Gordon Moore. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer SpatialLabs View Pro monitor (take a look: https://www.acer.com/gb-en/monitors/spatiallabs/acer-spatiallabs-view-pro)

View the US Congress Vs. TikTok session here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_E-4jtTFsO4

PC Pro Podcast 634

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 15:21:08 +0100

The team catches up with the latest developments in AI, asks whether we’d trust a web browser made by Amazon, and warns that screenshots might reveal details you thought you’d cropped away. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Lego Technic Cat® D11 Bulldozer 42131, an assemble-it-yourself app-controlled scale model of a construction icon.

Check out the Lego bulldozer here: https://www.lego.com/en-gb/product/app-controlled-cat-d11-bulldozer-42131

Try Microsoft Loop here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-loop

PC Pro Podcast 633

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 15:16:38 +0100

The team discusses the brand-new GPT-4 AI platform, WhatsApp’s threats to quit the UK, the collapse of the Silicon Valley Bank and the risk of critical communications being cut off in the event of a power cut. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Poly Studio, a portable all-in-one teleconferencing system.

PC Pro Podcast 632

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 15:36:00 +0100

The team asks whether recent launches and projects are making Microsoft exciting again, bewails the state of the British semiconductor industry and explores the idea of putting datacentres on the moon. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Philips 27B1U7903, which turns out to be a 4K monitor with mini-LED backlighting.

PC Pro Podcast 631

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:30:39 +0100

The team discusses the latest products unveiled at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, rumours of what could be in Windows 12, and how Amazon is penalising authors whose works pop up on pirate sites. Our Hot Hardware candidate is more of a hot service this week, as Barry sings the praises of the Nvidia GeForce Now Ultimate game-streaming platform.

PC Pro Podcast 630

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 15:42:07 +0100

The team discusses new paid-for verification programmes at Instagram and Facebook; the latest fallout in the AI revolution; and the rise of domestic robots. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Yubikey 5Ci, a security key that provides effortless two-factor authentication.

PC Pro Podcast 629

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:10:54 +0100

The team discusses what’s new with AI conversations and creations, ponders yet more layoffs in the tech sector, and asks whether Windows is sharing too much information. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus ROG Zephyrus M16, a very pricey gaming laptop with a mini-LED display.

And here's that brutally frank video from the Thunderbird team: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoLb6aHakno

PC Pro Podcast 628

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 16:48:28 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft and Google’s race to offer AI-powered web searching, the latest craziness at Twitter and a big change coming in Android 14. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station, a solar-powered 1.5kWh battery pack for all your clean energy needs.

PC Pro Podcast 627

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 14:59:03 +0100

The team discusses the key product launches at Samsung’s Unboxed event, some shocking financial results from Intel, a big week for ChatGPT and dampened expectations for Sony’s upcoming virtual reality headset. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Sony Cinema Line FX30, a professional-grade film-making camera in a compact body.

PC Pro Podcast 626

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 16:18:15 +0100

The team discusses a big week for AI, outages at Microsoft and Apple’s latest move to break away from Google. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Intel NUC 11 Essential, a £150 mini-PC designed for always-on duties.

PC Pro Podcast 625

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 14:43:48 +0100

The team discusses big job cuts at Microsoft, new computers and processors from Apple, Nick Cave’s verdict on AI-generated lyrics and the latest arguments over the UK’s Online Safety Bill. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the NOCO GB40, a kiloamp Li-Ion battery pack for jump-starting your car.

PC Pro Podcast 624

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 15:27:52 +0100

The team discusses the best of CES, new requirements for gigabit internet in UK homes and the possibility of a new digital currency to operate alongside the pound. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Aranet4, a smart carbon dioxide detector.

PC Pro Podcast 623 (CES Special)

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 12:31:09 +0100

Barry Collins and Jon Honeyball report from CES in Las Vegas, discussing the latest news from the world's largest technology show and delivering their verdicts on announcements and demos from Nvidia, Samsung and others.

PC Pro Podcast 622

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 17:42:54 +0100

It’s time once more for our annual festive quiz: Darien Graham-Smith takes the chair and subjects podcast regulars Barry Collins, Tim Danton, Lee Grant and Jon Honeyball to a thorough grilling on technology old and new.

PC Pro Podcast 621

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 16:09:13 +0100

The team discusses the prospect of rival app stores on the iPhone, a social media misstep for the Raspberry Pi team and a new AI chatbot that could help you renegotiate your bills. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Mercusys Halo H80X, a fast but very affordable wireless mesh.

PC Pro Podcast 620

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 15:12:19 +0100

The team discusses a major ransomware attack at cloud services provider Rackspace, the future of Moore’s Law and the new AI bot that’s been flooding your social media timelines. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Studio 2+, the company’s latest large-scale fold-down all-in-one PC.

PC Pro Podcast 619

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:02:51 +0100

The team discusses the latest tweak to the UK’s Online Safety Bill, warnings over unscrupulous computer repair shops and Epson’s exit from the laser printer market. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Elgato Stream Deck+, a customisable controller for any application, game or workflow.

PC Pro Podcast 618

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 15:16:27 +0100

In a somewhat gloom-themed podcast, the team asks whether technology is ruining football, considers whether Alexa is on her last legs and holds a candlelight vigil for Twitter. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer Chromebook Vero 514, an environmentally conscious Chromebook with a capable Core i5 processor.

PC Pro Podcast 617

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 14:52:00 +0100

The team of Barry, Jon, Lee and Tim tackle this week’s big tech topics: what on Earth happened at FTX and what does it mean for crypto currencies? Was the UK government’s Discord server such a great idea? Why are lithium-ion fires on the rise? Is Elon Musk right to ask only the hardcore to stay working at Twitter? Plus, Jon praises the virtues of the Microsoft Windows on Arm dev kit - but is it hot?

PC Pro Podcast 616

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 19:23:00 +0100

It’s a packed episode, with a special NIBs section dedicated to Twitter, some facial theft, the story of bricked Samsung watches and the release of a rival to Adobe Creative Suite. And Jon attempts to persuade us that a £400 Wi-Fi access point is a worthy Hot Hardware candidate. Does he succeed? You’ll have to listen to find out.

PC Pro Podcast 615

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 15:38:41 +0100

The team discusses Twitter’s first week under the stewardship of Elon Musk, a controversial licensing change in Adobe’s creative apps and the possible future of the web browser. Editor Tim discusses design and repairability with Brian Leonard, Lenovo’s vice president of design, and our Hot Hardware candidate is the Pixel 7 Pro, arguably Google’s best phone ever.

PC Pro Podcast 614

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:11:01 +0100

The team discusses the UK’s plans to recognise and regulate cryptocurrencies, Microsoft’s new ARM-powered mini-PC and a big drop in Meta’s share price as it continues to throw money at the “metaverse”. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Pinecil V2 soldering iron.

For details of Jon Honeyball’s upcoming talk at the Centre for Computing History, see http://www.computinghistory.org.uk/det/69477/TechTalk-Jon-Honeyball-The-Internet-and-how-we-got-it-all-so-wrong-Thursday-9th-February-2023/

PC Pro Podcast 613

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 15:13:32 +0100

The team discusses the latest feature update to Windows 11, a new release of Firefox that includes a PDF editor, and yet another confusing update to the USB standard. As happens from time to time, our Hot Hardware candidate is actually a piece of software, namely Adobe Lightroom 2023.

PC Pro Podcast 612

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 15:18:31 +0100

The team catches up with the long-running saga of Elon Musk’s Twitter purchase, discusses the closure of Google’s Stadia cloud gaming service and ponders an enforced switch to USB Type-C for future iPhones. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple’s biggest and most expensive wearable yet.

PC Pro Podcast 611

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 14:21:05 +0100

The team discusses a splurge of new hardware from Amazon, search updates from Google and Adobe’s pricey acquisition of design rival Figma. And, as DALL-E 2, the AI-based image-generation tool, opens its doors to all comers, we consider it for the coveted title of Hot Software of the Week.

Read more about Google’s new search features: https://blog.google/products/search/search-on-2022/

Check out Barry’s first creations with DALL-E 2: https://bigtechquestion.com/2022/09/29/online/dalle-2/

PC Pro Podcast 610

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 14:29:06 +0100

The team discusses what’s new in the Windows 11 22H2 update, asks whether Ethereum’s big move away from mining has genuinely saved energy, and ponders the implications of a major security breach at Uber. By popular demand, our Hot Hardware candidate is the Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 G1, the first laptop we’ve seen with an AMD Ryzen Pro 6000-series CPU.

PC Pro Podcast 609

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 16:12:06 +0100

The team discusses an eco-friendly revolution in cryptocurrency, Google’s abandonment of the next Pixelbook, new challengers for Microsoft Office and a warning that a future AI could eliminate humanity. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus Zenbook 17 OLED Fold, a 17in folding laptop with, you guessed it, an OLED screen.

PC Pro Podcast 608

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 14:05:30 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s latest iPhone and Watch upgrades, some long overdue updates to Twitter and reports of problems with the integrated computer platform that underpins the UK’s legal system. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung G950 Odyssey Neo G9 monitor – an ultrawide 49in screen that’s ideal for really big Excel spreadsheets, and perhaps the odd game as well.

PC Pro Podcast 607

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 13:56:53 +0100

The team discusses a decidedly old-school cyber-attack that involves sending infected USB flash drives through the post; a move to end passwords for good; and a controversy over “phantom” traffic police who exist only in navigation apps. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Sony Xperia 1 IV, a shiny smartphone with a high-end camera and a 4K OLED screen.

PC Pro Podcast 606

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:41:01 +0100

The team discusses new ransomware attacks on critical UK services, what’s new in Android 13 and a restaurant that’s run completely by robots. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logi Dock, an all-in-one desktop dock that handles both peripherals and communications.

PC Pro Podcast 605

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 14:23:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest phones and watches from Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, Amazon’s acquisition of Roomba manufacturer iRobot and Epson’s self-destructing printers. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Plume HomePass, a mesh Wi-Fi system that comes with an annual subscription.

… and if you wish to watch the all-star Excel championship as described by Lee Grant, you can find the video at https://www.fmworldcup.com/product/all-star-bundle/

PC Pro Podcast 604

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 14:17:00 +0100

The team discusses hard times for Intel, a new edition of ChromeOS for personal devices and updates to both Apple and Google’s mobile app stores. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the new Apple MacBook Air, with an updated design and the latest M2 processor.

PC Pro Podcast 603

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 14:16:00 +0100

The team asks whether AIs are plagiarising human artists, welcomes a huge computer-assisted medical breakthrough and mulls the rise of so-called “protestware”. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer Predator Orion 3000, a desktop PC that promises gaming power and style at a very reasonable price.

PC Pro Podcast 602

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 14:38:00 +0100

The PC Pro podcast isn't immune to the world around it: we discuss the (temporary?) death of the Online Safety Bill, why the hot weather is causing outages, the "exciting" new features in Microsoft Teams, and our feelings about VR in the workplace. Jon nominates the Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro as Hot Hardware candidate: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/uk/products/atemmini.

PC Pro Podcast 601

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 13:48:00 +0100

The team discusses a dangerous new vulnerability in AMD and Intel CPUs, the first all-British smartphone, and a partnership between Microsoft and Netflix. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Fancii USB desk fan.

If you fancy a Fancii fan of your own, you can buy it from: https://pcpro.link/601fan

PC Pro Podcast 600

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:59:00 +0100

The team discusses the arrival of digital codes on UK stamps, an ambitious amendment to the Online Safety Bill and a surprise new security feature for Apple devices. We also celebrate our 600th episode with a look back on 15 years of the PC Pro Podcast; our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Go 2.

PC Pro Podcast 599

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 14:39:00 +0100

The team discusses a sophisticated new malware attack targeting routers, some odd clauses in Amazon's acceptable usage policy and a disappointing discovery about Apple's latest laptop. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logitech MX Master 3S mouse.

PC Pro Podcast 598

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 14:14:00 +0100

The team discusses the UK’s proposed changes to cookie consent, Twitter’s new long-form “Notes” feature and a milestone for virtual reality as tech giants club together to form the Metaverse Standards Forum. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the LG Gram 16, a large but lightweight laptop that comes with a standalone second screen.

PC Pro Podcast 597

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 13:58:00 +0100

The team asks whether Google’s AI is truly sentient, says goodbye to Internet Explorer and boggles at the potential of machine-generated art. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the RealYou EMF shield, a lightweight cover that blocks radio transmissions from your router because who needs Wi-Fi anyway?

Check out The Verge’s feature on the amazing capabilities of the DALL-E 2 image-generation tool: https://pcpro.link/597dall-e2

PC Pro Podcast 596

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 13:55:00 +0100

The team discusses the big announcements from Apple’s WWDC event, new EU regulations that require all consumer gadgets to charge via USB Type-C and a steep price hike for Ring smart doorbells. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the D-Link Eagle Pro AI R15, a fully featured Wi-Fi 6 router costing just £55.

PC Pro Podcast 595

Thu, 26 May 2022 13:49:00 +0100

The team discusses Dyson’s new plans for domestic robots, Samsung’s bid to dethrone the Apple M1 processor and the latest announcements from Microsoft’s Build 2022 conference. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Allegro Network Multimeter 500, a small box that can reveal the darkest secrets of a corporate network.

PC Pro Podcast 594

Fri, 20 May 2022 14:22:00 +0100

The team discusses rumours of new Apple devices, and a controversial change in policy for app subscriptions. We also ask whether playing video games could be good for young brains, and welcome Mastercard’s new fully biometric payment system. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Huawei MateStation X, an all-in-one PC with a huge, high-quality touchscreen.

PC Pro Podcast 593

Thu, 12 May 2022 13:53:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest announcements from Google’s I/O event, warns about a serious new vulnerability affecting Apple processors, and ponders a new NFT that supposedly can’t ever lose its value. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Adaptive Kit, a set of stick-on accessories designed to make your laptop more accessible.

Order your own Surface Adaptive Kit here: https://pcpro.link/593sak

PC Pro Podcast 592

Thu, 05 May 2022 14:01:00 +0100

The team discusses Sonos’ plans to launch its own voice assistant, the latest USB updates and new NFTs vying for attention in a shrinking market. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logitech Lift, a novel mouse with an ergonomic upright design.

Watch David Lynch’s seminal “Third Place” PlayStation 2 advert: https://youtu.be/Laf9vpJMDjA

PC Pro Podcast 591

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:13:00 +0100

The team discusses Elon Musk’s costly and controversial acquisition of Twitter, a new era for iPhone repairs and a mass exodus of Netflix customers. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Las Vegas Convention Centre Loop, a new tunnel opened by Elon Musk's Boring Company.

PC Pro Podcast 590

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:56:00 +0100

The team discusses HP’s plans for a laptop with a foldable screen, looks ahead to Wi-Fi 7 and ponders the success – or otherwise – of Windows 11. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Nighthawk MR5200 mobile router, a battery-powered 5G hotspot that provides truly wireless internet access.

PC Pro Podcast 589

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 14:26:00 +0100

The team discusses a possible shock takeover at Twitter, the latest rumblings over cryptocurrencies and an AI that could soon be marking kids’ homework. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Huawei MateBook E, an aggressively affordable alternative to the Microsoft Surface Pro.

PC Pro Podcast 588

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 14:29:31 +0100

The team discusses the latest new features coming to Windows 11, Elon Musk’s new role at Twitter, the UK’s plans for cryptocurrency and Google’s latest attempts to protect your privacy. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the HP Omen 45L, a gaming desktop with a built-in cryo-chamber for powerful cooling.

Remarks on the future of cryptocurrency in the UK by John Glen, Economic Secretary to the Treasury:
https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/keynote-speech-by-john-glen-economic-secretary-to-the-treasury-at-the-innovate-finance-global-summit

PC Pro Podcast 587

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 13:54:00 +0100

The team discusses concerns over kids on social media; the shocking tale of an undisclosed flaw in Wyze security cameras; and a new law that could force iMessage and WhatsApp to work together. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Røde NTH-100, the Australian audio specialist’s first ever headphones.

Read Bitdefender’s full report into the Wyze Cam security debacle: pcpro.link/587wyze

PC Pro Podcast 586

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 15:18:00 +0100

The team discusses a subtle change in how Windows 11 behaves on unsupported hardware; questions the security and transparency of the prime minister’s communications; and discovers the truth about the new Apple Mac Studio’s performance. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Surface Laptop Studio, Microsoft’s new take on the convertible laptop.

PC Pro Podcast 585

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 15:09:00 +0100

The team discusses the UK government’s new proposals to keep the internet safe, the unwelcome appearance of advertisements in Windows and the latest tech fallout over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Out Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500, the first standalone Wi-Fi 6E router to reach our Labs.

PC Pro Podcast 584

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 14:58:00 +0100

The team discusses the new hardware unveiled at Apple’s “Peek Performance” event, a dramatic hack attack on Nvidia and controversy over a hidden performance-management feature on Samsung phones. Out Hot Hardware candidate is the Vissles V84, a mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable keys.

PC Pro Podcast 583

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 15:54:00 +0100

The team discusses the tech industry’s responses to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a warning from gaming luminary Sid Meier and the latest announcements from the Mobile World Congress trade show in Barcelona. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Elgato Stream Deck 2, a programmable controller that can streamline almost any task.

PC Pro Podcast 582

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 15:04:00 +0100

The team discusses Intel’s newest range of laptop chips, how sport and sex are moving into the Metaverse and the end of 3G. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Samsung’s newest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S22 Ultra.

The BBC’s exposé of the lack of child protections in the Metaverse: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-60415317

PC Pro Podcast 581

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 15:11:00 +0100

How do you protect children when they’re using online platforms such as Roblox? Jon, Tim, Lee and Barry tackle this contentious issue, before giving Chrome OS Flex a workout, pouring cold water on a BCS “call” to extend the life of smartphones to ten years, and discussing Starlink’s loss of 40 satellites. Finally, our Hot Hardware candidate - the Amazon Echo Show 15 - gets something of a roasting.

PC Pro Podcast 580

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 14:59:00 +0100

The team discusses the new products unveiled at Samsung’s “Unpacked” event, Microsoft’s belated move to properly block macros in Office and a kerfuffle over Meta’s apparent threat to pull out of Europe. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Orbi WiFi 6E, a mesh system with support for the new 6GHz networking standard.

PC Pro Podcast 579

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:01:00 +0100

The team discusses the controversial case of a man facing prison for a tasteless tweet; the WWF’s planned move into NFTs; and a mysterious new laptop that promises to do away with physical connectors. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Astro Slide 5G, a classic 1990s-style PDA with a modern Android operating system.

Check out the unlikely Craob X laptop for yourself: http://craob.com

PC Pro Podcast 578

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 14:58:00 +0100

The team discusses rumours of a new Google AR headset, the latest breakthroughs in quantum computing, an initiative from the UK government to help small businesses shore up their security and some good news – at last – for Intel. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logitech POP Keys, a keyboard with customisable emoji keys.

And if you want to buy the Microsoft Surface Duo for £679 while stocks last, here’s the link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/d/surface-duo-unlocked/8p98gbqkdzl5

PC Pro Podcast 577

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 14:30:00 +0100

The team discusses airline safety fears over 5G telecoms, Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision and Intel’s apparent plans to launch a new dedicated Bitcoin-mining chip. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ubiquiti Switch Pro Aggregation, a huge Layer 3 switch at a remarkable price.

PC Pro Podcast 576

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 15:50:12 +0100

The team discusses a chip shortage affecting Canon’s printer cartridges, the arrival of PCI-E 6 and a new way of identifying cyberattacks from their electromagnetic signatures. Editor Tim Danton delivers his first-hand impressions of CES 2022, and our Hot Hardware candidate is the GeoFlex 340, a low-cost convertible laptop.

Featured link: That Microsoft Surface SE repair video – https://youtu.be/fVjjSqfp75g

PC Pro Podcast 575

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 14:31:08 +0100

The team discusses our pick of the new gadgets unveiled at CES 2022, plus Intel’s newest family of chips, the end of BlackBerry messenger phones, a novel way to charge your TV remote control – and the latest developments in smart tractors.

PC Pro Podcast 574

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 15:16:00 +0100

It’s time for our annual festive quiz! Join the team as we put our knowledge of technical matters and current affairs to the test.

You can also enter our prize contest to win a free copy of BullGuard Premium Protection (RRP £69.99) or editor-in-chief Tim Danton’s book The Computers That Made Britain. Just visit http://pcpro.link/pod574, answer the question and submit your details before 6pm on Friday, 24 December 2021.

PC Pro Podcast 573

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:49:00 +0100

The team discusses a major security threat to online services everywhere, the government’s latest proposals for policing the internet and Microsoft’s novel attempt to coax pirates into paying for Office. In a Hot Hardware special we round up our favourite products of 2021.

PC Pro Podcast 572

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 15:09:00 +0100

The gang discusses Microsoft’s attempts to persuade people to stick with its Edge browser, the latest assaults on your online privacy and the future of quantum computing. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Fairphone 4, a modular and repairable 5G smartphone.

Link – IEEE Spectrum interviews quantum computing architect John Martinis: https://spectrum.ieee.org/quantum-computing-google-sycamore

PC Pro Podcast 571

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:07:00 +0100

The team discusses some questionable behaviour from Microsoft, Amazon’s sneaky promotion of its own brands and Qualcomm’s new ARM processor for Windows machines. We also give away a podcasting microphone and amplifier courtesy of box.co.uk. Our Hot Hardware candidate is a £3,500 gaming PC from Scan, powered by Intel’s new 12th-generation Core i9 processor.

PC Pro Podcast 570

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 15:17:13 +0100

The team discusses how different countries are handling the rise of cryptocurrency, Apple's questionable app ratings and rumours that Windows might soon be available on a much wider range of ARM hardware. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Røde Wireless Go II, a compact wireless microphone system.

PC Pro Podcast 569

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:21:00 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s huge U-turn on repairability, the gradual winding-down of Windows 10 and IBM’s latest breakthrough in quantum computing. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the 16in Apple MacBook Pro, showcasing the new M1 Max processor.

PC Pro Podcast 568

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 15:08:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s new Windows 11 SE platform, a graphene-based battery breakthrough and an unexpected climbdown on repairability from Apple. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logitech MK295 Silent Keyboard, an affordable keyboard that won’t wake the neighbours.

PC Pro Podcast 567

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 15:34:00 +0100

The team discusses Mark Zuckerberg’s plans for the Metaverse, a new addition to Microsoft Office and the backlash against software subscriptions. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Pixel 6 Pro, Google’s newest and best own-brand phone.

Links featured in this episode:

Washington Post: How Facebook’s “metaverse” became a political strategy in Washington: https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/09/24/facebook-washington-strategy-metaverse/

Microsoft Loop Promo Video: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-loop

PC Pro Podcast 566

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 14:19:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest accusations against Facebook, a cyber-attack on UK VoIP providers, new features in the latest Adobe applications and Intel's newest, fastest CPUs. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Apple's AirPods 3.

Links:

Apple's now-vanished notch documentation: https://web.archive.org/web/20211026105727/https://developer.apple.com/documentation/bundleresources/information_property_list/nsprefersdisplaysafeareacompatibilitymode

Barry Collins' hands-on test of Photoshop's new seasonal adjustment filters: https://medium.com/counterarts/photoshops-stunning-new-filters-let-you-change-seasons-in-seconds-50be60233f85

PC Pro Podcast 565

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 13:36:00 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s new MacBook Pro models – and the chips that power them – along with Google’s latest Pixel phones, and a probe into online music streaming services. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Astropad Luna Display, a tiny USB adaptor that turns your iPad into a secondary display for a Windows or Mac computer.

PC Pro Podcast 564

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 14:08:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s new right-to-repair commitments, the latest research into mobile app snooping, warnings over new internet regulations and the latest Wi-Fi upgrade. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Logitech MX Keys Mini, a high-end compact keyboard.

Links featured in this episode:

The Daily Show on Right To Repair: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgK8x5MrShw

Study: “Android Mobile OS Snooping by Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei and Realme Handsets”: https://www.scss.tcd.ie/Doug.Leith/Android_privacy_report.pdf

Study: “Are iPhones Really Better for Privacy?” https://arxiv.org/pdf/2109.13722.pdf

PC Building Simulator: https://www.epicgames.com/store/en-US/p/pc-building-simulator

PC Pro Podcast 563

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 15:34:00 +0100

The team discusses a huge outage of Facebook services, Sky’s new smart TV offerings and revelations from our exclusive chat with Windows manager Aaron Woodman. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Apple’s latest iPhone – is 13 the company’s lucky number?

PC Pro Podcast 562

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 13:37:00 +0100

As the official launch of Windows 11 draws near, the team takes an in-depth look at the new OS, discussing interface changes, security enhancements, gaming features and more.

PC Pro Podcast 561

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:22:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s latest Surface devices, new features in iOS 15, the push to standardise phone chargers and the passing of British computing innovator Sir Clive Sinclair. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Z Flip3, a quirky folding smartphone.

PC Pro Podcast 560

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:02:00 +0100

The team discusses Apple’s latest phone, watch and tablet releases, while Microsoft goes passwordless and a new academic institution seeks to reboot social media. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ray-Ban Stories Wayfarer sunglasses, a pair of stylish shades that can capture photos and video footage.

PC Pro Podcast 559

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:47:00 +0100

The team discusses adverts in Windows 11, AI-based photo upscaling, El Salvador’s Bitcoin fiasco and question marks over WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption. As a Hot Hardware special, we take a trip back to 2016 and revisit the first-generation Amazon Echo.

A demo and explanation of the SR3 upscaling system: https://iterative-refinement.github.io/

PC Pro Podcast 558

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 14:22:00 +0100

The team discusses the impending arrival of Windows 11, Apple’s partial climbdown over App Store fees and accusations of deceptive marketing in the SSD world. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, the manufacturer’s first Google-powered wearable.

PC Pro Podcast 557

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 14:19:00 +0100

The team discusses a new data-protection shake-up in the UK, the latest hurdle in Nvidia’s acquisition of Arm, vulnerabilities in a wide range of routers using Realtek chipsets and the inexorable rise of semiconductor prices. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, a folding phone that could actually catch on.

Here’s a list of routers afflicted by the Realtek vulnerabilities:

https://therecord.media/hundreds-of-thousands-of-realtek-based-devices-under-attack-from-iot-botnet/

PC Pro Podcast 556

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 13:53:00 +0100

The team discusses the revelations in Facebook’s first ever “Widely Viewed Content Report”, a phishing attack that uses Morse code to slip past security scanners, a new lease of life for legacy landlines and Google’s mysterious new Tensor chip. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the ORIA Bluetooth transmitter, a low-cost gadget that could transform your in-car entertainment.

PC Pro Podcast 555

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 13:51:00 +0100

The team discusses new folding phones from Samsung, Apple’s controversial photo-scanning technology, the cost of outdated IT and Google’s threat to cut the pay of homeworkers. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Huawei MateView, a 28in monitor with an unusual 3:2 aspect ratio.

PC Pro Podcast 554

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 14:41:00 +0100

If the rumours are right, Amazon won’t be delivering our parcels by drone any time soon - but the team isn’t too worried about this failure, it turns out. Plus, will any of our panel buy the Surface Duo phone now that it’s halved in price? Can a robot run a 5K faster than Lee? And will our hot “hardware” of the week, Microsoft’s all-new Windows 365 Cloud PC, get the thumbs up from Jon Honeyball and the live listeners? There’s only one way to find out.

PC Pro Podcast 553

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 13:57:00 +0100

Dell can no longer sell its most high-end PCs in California due to their power demands - is this a harbinger of what’s to come? Plus, Jon Honeyball shares his views on the astonishing profits lodged by big tech companies such as Apple and Barry falls in love with Flight Simulator on the Xbox - before trying to persuade everyone that the Amazon Echo Show 8 is Hot Hardware of the Week.

PC Pro Podcast 552

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 14:54:51 +0100

The team discusses a major new vulnerability in Windows, the emerging Pegasus spyware scandal, the shutting down of an app that flags fake Amazon reviews and Netflix’s proposed move into gaming. Out Hot Hardware candidate is the Apple MagSafe battery pack.

PC Pro Podcast 551

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 14:05:00 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft’s new Windows Cloud service, the growing problem of leaked phone numbers, the uneven distribution of music streaming payments and the UK’s largest ever seizure of cryptocurrency. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the MuteMe, a physical button for muting yourself on VoIP and video calls.

PC Pro Podcast 550

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 13:46:07 +0100

Heather Burns of the Open Rights Group joins the podcast to explain how proposed legislation would outlaw all encrypted communications in the UK. The team also discusses the latest developments in Windows 11, TikTok’s increasing encroachment into the real world and some colourful new labels about to appear in supermarkets. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Eero 6, Amazon’s easy-to-use Wi-Fi 6 mesh system.

PC Pro Podcast 549

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 13:57:00 +0100

The team discusses a disastrous attack on WD NAS drives, the end of the Google-Microsoft détente, second impressions of Windows 11 and the return of roaming charges. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Shure MV7 podcast microphone. (Well, WE think it’s interesting.)

PC Pro Podcast 548

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0100

In a special edition of the podcast, the team discusses the official unveiling of Windows 11. Is this a bold new computing platform for the post-pandemic age, or is Microsoft just hoping to drum up excitement with a new lick of paint? We give our impressions and predictions.

PC Pro Podcast 547

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 13:54:00 +0100

The team discusses a first look at Windows 11, Apple’s plans to do away with passwords, the opening of Google’s first high-street shop and a legal victory on the “right to repair”. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6, a slim and stylish convertible laptop with an exceptional screen and a rare turn of speed.

PC Pro Podcast 546

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 13:52:00 +0100

The team discusses the latest announcements from Apple’s WWDC event, questions the trustworthiness of “authorised” repair shops, marvels at a technical error that took down some of the biggest sites on the web, and laments a legal precedent that could see individuals in the US lose their internet connections for merely being accused of copyright infringement. Our Hot Software candidate is Vivaldi 4, a new release of the privacy-focused browser that comes with a suite of additional desktop tools.

PC Pro Podcast 545

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 13:47:00 +0100

The team discusses the fightback against pushy cookie requesters, state-sponsored malware attacks, the arrival of Huawei’s new HarmonyOS and Norton’s unexpected move into cryptomining. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the F77 Model F, a customisable, retro-styled keyboard that could be yours for just £250.

PC Pro Podcast 544

Thu, 27 May 2021 14:10:45 +0100

The team discusses the latest news from Microsoft’s Build conference, a cautionary tale about Wi-Fi passwords, the effective demise of Samsung’s “upcycling” programme and a controversial change to YouTube’s terms of service. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, Amazon’s latest, smartest doorbell.

The Samsung upcycling video: https://youtu.be/oLsr6i_atAA

PC Pro Podcast 543

Thu, 20 May 2021 15:14:00 +0100

The team discusses the big announcements from Google’s I/O event, Apple’s malware problem, Amazon’s new Sidewalk network and the rise of lossless music streaming. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4.

PC Pro Podcast 542

Thu, 13 May 2021 13:55:00 +0100

The team discusses the government’s plans for cleaning up the internet, the rumoured shelving of Windows 10X, a new report into the right to repair and Elon Musk’s latest shenanigans. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Netgear’s Orbi LBR20 4G router, a Wi-Fi solution for locations without a reliable fixed internet connection.

Matthew Lesh’s Twitter commentary on the Online Safety Bill: http://pcpro.link/pod542a

The FTC report on repairability: http://pcpro.link/pod542b

PC Pro Podcast 541

Thu, 06 May 2021 13:50:00 +0100

The team discusses the continuing spat between Apple and Epic, English football’s social media boycott and a new low-cost broadband package designed for people receiving universal credit. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Apple’s AirTags, little discs that can be used to track and locate (more or less) anything.

PC Pro Podcast 540

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 13:45:00 +0100

The team discusses the IT vulnerabilities that sent innocent Post Office workers to prison, price hikes at Spotify, a new look for Microsoft Word and the shocking cost of LinkedIn. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the AVerMedia PW315, a webcam with a fast frame rate and built-in AI to help frame and clean up your stream.

PC Pro Podcast 539

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 13:37:00 +0100

The team discusses new product announcements from Apple, criticises a misleading report from the NSPCC and questions whether the government is right to intervene in Nvidia’s proposed acquisition of Arm. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the PC Specialist Vortex Elite R, a £999 do-it-all desktop PC.

PC Pro Podcast 538

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 14:26:38 +0100

The team discusses the would-be bomber who hoped to blow up AWS, Spotify’s plans to become a fixture in your car, legal moves to limit the use of facial recognition and the planned merger between O2 and Virgin Media. Our Hot Software candidate, hem hem, is Parallels Desktop 16.5, the first edition of the popular virtualisation suite to officially support running Windows on Apple Silicon.

PC Pro Podcast 537

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 13:39:00 +0100

The team discusses a huge leak at Facebook, China’s national investment in cryptocurrency, the end of Yahoo Answers and LG’s departure from the smartphone market. Out Hot Hardware candidate is the Dell OptiPlex 7090 Ultra, an ultra-compact desktop PC that’s entirely built into a monitor stand.

Nintendo’s distinctly dodgy advice about port forwarding: pcpro.link/pod537a

Digits To Dollars report on smartphone manufacturers: pcpro.link/pod537b

PC Pro Podcast 536

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:25:00 +0100

The team discusses Amazon’s anti-union machinations, a boom in mobile browser usage, the latest on Nominet and ARM’s first new chip design in a decade. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Orbi RBK352, a (relatively) affordable Wi-Fi 6 mesh system.

Check out the browser usage stats referred to by Jon Honeyball at https://twitter.com/TheRealNooshu/status/1377547942274465793

PC Pro Podcast 535

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 14:57:07 +0100

The team discusses an embarrassing data breach at FatFace, the downsides of working from home, big changes at Nominet and how Intel plans to regain its mojo. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer ConceptD 3 Ezel Pro, a laptop with a novel flexible design.

PC Pro Podcast 534

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:50:50 +0100

The team discusses Intel’s new Apple-bashing ads, a silicon shortage threatening the smartphone market, controversy over privacy labelling and new plans to encourage tech giants to pay for the content they use. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the latest model of the LG Gram 17, a laptop that’s big but very light.

PC Pro Podcast 533

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:24:49 +0100

The team discusses the EU's chip ambitions, a huge attack on Microsoft Exchange, the use of CCTV to track social distancing and Dropbox's acquisition of DocSend. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Elgato Stream Deck, a smart button bank that works with almost any application.

PC Pro Podcast 532

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 15:51:00 +0100

Microsoft wants to augment meetings with its Hololens technology, but three out of our four experts think it’s fighting a losing battle. Plus, our take on the automated Amazon store shortly to open in London, a brief explainer on what NFTs are (and if they’re a good thing), and why Google’s move away from personalised ad tracking comes with caveats. Finally, can Tim persuade the others to make a £200 laptop Hot Hardware of the Week?

PC Pro Podcast 531

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 14:39:55 +0100

The team discusses a speed boost for satellite internet, the uncertain future of Wear OS, concerns over Apple SSDs and Spotify’s plans for lossless streaming. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer ConceptD CP5271UV, a 27in monitor designed to please creatives and gamers alike.

PC Pro Podcast 530

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 16:28:00 +0100

With LastPass announcing that its free version will be severely limited in the future, what’s your best option for switching? Plus what’s coming up in the next Windows update (don’t get excited), why we think Microsoft is charging way too much for the Surface Duo in the UK, and all the rest of this week’s news tied up in a conversational bow.

PC Pro Podcast 529

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 14:31:21 +0100

The team discusses privacy concerns over Clubhouse, Twitter's vision for a custom-curated social media feed, a milestone for Microsoft Excel and Intel's first public response to the Apple M1 SoC. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Expanscape Aurora 7, a powerhouse laptop with a 17.3in 4K display, plus six other fold-out screens.

PC Pro Podcast 528

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:25:09 +0100

Jeff Bezos stands down as Amazon CEO and Google closes its in-house games studio; we also share a sneak preview of Windows 10 X and discuss the tech winners and losers of the pandemic. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus ROG Strix G17, a stonking gaming laptop with an AMD Ryzen R7 CPU.

PC Pro Podcast 527

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 14:23:09 +0100

The team discusses Twitter and Facebook opening their archives to researchers, Google’s threat to quit Australia, a worldwide shortage of graphics cards, and how Reddit users are causing ructions on Wall Street. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Prime Computer PrimeMini 5, a low-power desktop PC that’s small and silent yet surprisingly well connected.

The day Volkswagen briefly conquered the world (from the Financial Times, may be paywalled): https://www.ft.com/content/0a58b63a-4294-3e07-8390-c3aabef39a26

PC Pro Podcast 526

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:26:09 +0100

The team discusses Wikipedia's 20th anniversary, Sir Tim Berners-Lee's new idea for protecting our online privacy and the potential dangers of online shopping algorithms. Our hot hardware candidate is the Asus ZenBook Duo UX482, the company's latest stab at creating a dual-screen laptop.

Spotlight link: List of hoaxes on Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:List_of_hoaxes_on_Wikipedia

PC Pro Podcast 525

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 14:21:08 +0100

The team discusses the highlights of this year's virtual CES, an ignominious end for "free-speech" social network Parler, concerns over Flash-only online exams and a new CEO for Intel. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Virgin's Intelligent Wi-Fi Plus, a whole-home booster based on the Plume mesh platform.

PC Pro Podcast 524

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 14:24:20 +0100

The team discusses the technology implications of the recent mass incursion into the US Capitol; a new look for Outlook; the challenges of home schooling; and Microsoft's threat to bring deceased loved ones back to life as chatbots. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the HP EliteOne 800 G5, an all-in-one desktop PC that could be ideal for homeworkers.

PC Pro Podcast 523

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 14:27:45 +0100

As 2020 recedes into the rear-view mirror, the team looks ahead to the big issues and technologies that might shape 2021.

Video link: "The Square", as mentioned by Tim Danton as a possible way to make working from home more sociable - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lS9D-43Q9aQ

PC Pro Podcast 522

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 14:15:32 +0100

It's time once more for our annual quiz! Darien Graham-Smith plays quizmaster as Barry Collins, Tim Danton and Jon Honeyball compete for the tech trivia crown.

PC Pro Podcast 521

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 16:05:15 +0100

The team discusses a short but disruptive Google outage, privacy controversies at Twitter and Facebook, and a major step forward for Windows on ARM. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Apple's AirPods Max, a pair of noise-cancelling, over-ear headphones that can be yours for the pocket-money price of £549.

PC Pro Podcast 520

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 14:28:30 +0100

The team discusses the EU's proposed "right to disconnect", legal challenges to Facebook, a technical trick that can uncover pixelated passwords and new accessibility features in Android and iOS. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer Book RS i7, a premium Windows laptop designed by Porsche.

For the original tweet about pixelated passwords, see https://twitter.com/spibblez/status/1335638633970348032

PC Pro Podcast special: How do we connect Britain?

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 10:00:55 +0100

The pandemic has hammered home the importance of connectivity for workers wherever they are in the country. In this special podcast in association with O2, Tim Danton, Jon Honeyball and O2's Ant Morse cover the lessons learned so far and look ahead to the future - including the role of 5G and the steps we need to take to connect the whole of Britain.

PC Pro Podcast 519

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 14:21:28 +0100

The team discusses Android apps on Windows, the acquisition of Slack by business giant SalesForce and the rise of Spotify as a podcasting platform. Our Hot Hardware contender is actually a piece of software this week, namely the latest version of Pixelmator Pro, a powerful but affordable image editor.

PC Pro Podcast 518

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 14:36:18 +0100

The team discusses online bots snapping up Black Friday bargains, a row over royalties paid to musicians by streaming services, the hidden risks of smart doorbells and a disappointing government U-turn on broadband targets. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Alcatel 1, a bona fide smartphone costing less than £30.

PC Pro Podcast 517

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 14:59:24 +0100

Apple halves its App Store cut to 15% for smaller publishers, Google Pay gets a big update and "free speech" social network Parler continues to grow. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the new Apple MacBook Air, the first computer we've seen built on the Apple M1 processor.

And finally, two Radio 4 programmes, mentioned during our discussion of Parler, that address the challenge of discourse across ideological divides:

Across The Red Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09m2bj1
Sweet Reason: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0bclfsr

PC Pro Podcast 516

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 14:27:06 +0100

The team discusses Apple's new ARM-based Macs, looks into Android app security and asks how AI is affecting our spending habits. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Raspberry Pi 400, a new variant of the Pi that comes in a classic-style keyboard casing.

PC Pro Podcast 515

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 14:31:02 +0100

The team discusses a huge leak of user credentials from across the web, the influence of social media on the US election, confidential data being recovered from second-hand USB flash drives and Intel's new foray into world of discrete GPUs. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the 2020 iPad Air, a tablet offering much of the cachet of an iPad Pro at a slightly lower price.

PC Pro Podcast 514

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 14:32:23 +0100

The team discusses the end of the road for Flash on Windows, the latest updates to the NHS Covid-19 app, an online hoax that proclaimed the return of defunct high-street giant Woolworths and the rise of the right-to-repair movement. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the DJI OM 4, a magnetic gimbal that helps you capture professional-grade video on your smartphone.

Check out the mobile phone compatibility list for the OM 4 at https://pcpro.link/podom4

PC Pro Podcast 513

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 13:32:07 +0100

The team discusses the latest update to Windows 10, the arrival of Windows apps on Chrome OS, new AI-powered tools in Adobe Photoshop and a warning over malicious ad-blocking tools. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Honor Router 3, a Wi-Fi 6-compatible router costing just £72.

PC Pro Podcast 512

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 13:38:55 +0100

eng||The team discusses Apple's new iPhone and Homepod models, Amazon's apparent evasion of a new UK tax, the future for Google Chrome and an update for the pocket-sized micro:bit computer. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Pixel 5, Google's latest own-brand Android smartphone.

PC Pro Podcast 511

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 13:34:23 +0100

The team discusses PHE's Excel-based coronavirus cock-up, new features in Slack and Google Workspace, Nvidia's AI-based upgrade to videoconferencing and the latest breakthroughs in RAM and battery technologies. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Huawei Matebook 14 2020, a £950 laptop with an AMD Ryzen 7 processor.

Watch the virtual PC Pro Awards ceremony at https://www.pcproawards.co.uk

PC Pro Podcast 510

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 13:36:54 +0100

The team discusses the latest product launches from Google and Amazon, checks out Lenovo's new foldable PC and looks forward to a brighter future for Windows on ARM. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi 6 AX4200, a next-generation home mesh system.

For Barry Collins' story about the iPad mini that could, see pcpro.link/podpad

PC Pro Podcast 509

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 13:36:53 +0100

The team discusses the long-awaited arrival of England's coronavirus tracing app, mulls Microsoft's licensing of GPT-3 AI technology, decries the excessively pushy marketing of the Edge browser and welcomes a new slew of supposedly IoT-focused chips from Intel. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Duo.

For the curious story of the TV set that broke a village's internet, see https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/television-piers-morgan-powys-broadband-18980907

PC Pro special podcast: Interview with Dr Hermann Hauser, co-founder of Arm Holdings

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 22:52:11 +0100

In this special podcast, we interview Dr Hermann Hauser - one of the co-founders of Arm Holdings - to discuss the proposed sale to Nvidia and why Dr Hauser believes that is a bad move for the company and Britain as a whole.

PC Pro Podcast 508

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 13:25:06 +0100

The team discusses the product updates unveiled at Apple's "Time Flies" event, IBM's new quantum computing roadmap and key announcements from the annual Facebook Connect conference. Fittingly, our Hot Hardware candidate is the Oculus Quest 2, Facebook's new flagship VR headset.

LINK: For more on the IBM quantum roadmap, see https://www.ibm.com/blogs/research/2020/09/ibm-quantum-roadmap/

PC Pro Podcast 507

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 13:26:57 +0100

The team checks out Scotland's new coronavirus tracing app, explores what's new in Android 11, laments fake reviews on Amazon and celebrates the 20th birthday of the universally unloved Windows Me. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Honor MagicBook Pro, a stylish and powerful laptop that's surprisingly affordable.

PC Pro Podcast 506

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 16:06:20 +0100

Firefox has signed a new search deal with Google, but - as Barry shares having interviewed its lead developer this week - the company is looking at new ways to make money. Plus, has Elon Musk overhyped his brain tech, the lowdown on Intel’s new branding and new chips, and whether you should save your money for Nvidia’s newly launched RTX 3000 series of graphics cards. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Lenovo ThinkSmart View, an office helper that sits on your desk...

PC Pro Podcast 505

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 13:42:10 +0100

The team discusses Epic Games' ongoing legal beef with Apple, the continuing prevalence of web-tracking tricks, a controversial update to Firefox and the 25th anniversary of the launch of Windows 95. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the X-Rite iDisplay Pro Plus 3, a nifty little colorimeter that can help you improve the colour accuracy of your monitor.

PC Pro Podcast 504

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 13:21:51 +0100

Commercial pilot Gavin Hall joins the team to give a professional opinion of Microsoft's groundbreaking new Flight Simulator; we also discuss the increasingly acrimonious squabble between Apple and Epic Games, a technical breakthrough that could give Intel CPUs a big performance boost and disputes over access to BT's paid-for TV services. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Sony WH-1000XM4, the company's new flagship noise-cancelling headphones.

PC Pro Podcast 503

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 13:27:58 +0100

The team talks to seismologist Professor Thomas Lecocq about Android's new earthquake-detection function - for real - and discusses the UK's latest coronavirus tracking app, the arrival of the Microsoft Surface Duo and the latest on TikTok. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Vodafone Curve, a compact GPS tracker designed to help locate misplaced items and animals.

PC Pro Podcast 502

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 13:24:20 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft's possible acquisition of TikTok, the rumoured sale of chip designer ARM and the latest announcements from Samsung's "Galaxy Unpacked" event (see www.samsung.com/uk/unpacked). We also mention a report suggesting that 80 million computers have been hijacked by malicious Chrome extensions, which you can read at pcpro.link/podcx. This week's Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy M31, a snazzy smartphone at a remarkably low price.

PC Pro Podcast 501

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 13:24:39 +0100

The team discusses not one but two high-profile hack attacks, recaps the US hearing that has accused tech giants of operating as monopolies, and looks ahead to the prospect of a wholly virtual CES. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear XS508M, a 10GbE network switch that makes Wi-Fi 6 look positively sluggish.

PC Pro Podcast 500

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 15:01:01 +0100

In the week that Slack slapped Microsoft with a lawsuit accusing it of abusing its position of dominance, the team delivers its verdict. Plus, what on earth is going on with Windows 10X, which worldwide powers might buy the chip-licensing giant Arm, hackable phone power supplies and the pros and cons of Apple’s bug bounty phone. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Null Project, an iPad keyboard that comes without any letters on its keys.

PC Pro Podcast 499

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 13:30:11 +0100

The team discusses a huge Twitter hack attack, Huawei's expulsion from the UK telecoms market, predictions of what 6G mobile services might bring and Google's visions for future wearable technology. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Gigabyte Aero 17, a high-powered laptop with a huge Pantone-certified screen.

PC Pro Podcast 498

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 14:39:51 +0100

The team discusses a new report that warns of vulnerabilities in ALL domestic routers (see pcpro.link/routerreport), concerns over in-game purchases, badly behaved iOS apps and the latest on Thunderbolt. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Moto 360, an Android-based smartwatch - remember those?

PC Pro Podcast 497

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 13:29:04 +0100

The team discusses the performance of Apple's new in-house CPUs, a technical fiasco that left banking customers unable to get at their money, tighter policies on hate speech at Reddit and the worldwide closure of Microsoft's retail shops. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the BT Mini Whole Home Wi-Fi, a three-node mesh system costing just £75.

PC Pro Podcast 496

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 13:56:30 +0100

The team discusses the implications of Apple's move to ARM-based processors, the final curtain for Adobe Flash, new rugged laptops from Acer, and apps that (notionally) allow you to go to the pub safely again. Our Hot Hardware candidates are a brace of high-end audio headsets from Logitech and Epos.

PC Pro Podcast 495

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 13:48:22 +0100

The team catches up with the state of the UK's "world-beating" Coronavirus-tracing app, legal challenges for Apple, warnings over the longevity of smart home appliances and Snapchat's big investment in AR. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Book 3.

PC Pro Podcast 494

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 13:55:06 +0100

The team discusses the potential dangers of facial recognition technology, emerging data about the coronavirus pandemic (see pcpro.link/model), ructions at Reddit and Apple's planned transition to ARM-based processors. Our Hot Hardware candidate is an ordinary Android phone - running the latest beta of Android 11.

PC Pro Podcast 493

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 13:29:18 +0100

The team discusses the BBC's new voice assistant, Google's next-generation video-streaming device, a boost for location-sharing "Plus Codes" and a steep price increase for Apple RAM. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Nighthawk M2 mobile router (see pcpro.link/podnight).

PC Pro Podcast 492

Thu, 28 May 2020 13:35:33 +0100

The team discusses Donald Trump's feud with Twitter, a USB stick that claims to protect users from the dangers of 5G radio waves, Japan's plans for "super-cities" and what - if anything - is new in the Windows 10 May 2020 Update. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Scan 3XS Vengeance XTi, a mighty desktop PC that showcases Intel's new Core i9-10900K CPU.

PC Pro Podcast 491

Thu, 21 May 2020 13:42:11 +0100

The team discusses the new Windows features unveiled at Microsoft's (virtual) Build conference, controversial rumours about Apple's earbuds, criticisms of the UK's coronavirus contact-tracing app and reports of how third-party delivery services are distorting the restaurant market. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the TP-Link EAP225, a wireless access point designed for the great outdoors.

PC Pro Podcast 490

Thu, 14 May 2020 13:24:19 +0100

The team discusses Facebook's use of AI to moderate posts, a stunning first look at the PlayStation 5, the end of Alienware's user-upgradeable laptop and a bitter farewell to Google Play Music. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Book S, a lightweight ARM-based Windows laptop.

PC Pro Podcast 489

Thu, 07 May 2020 13:23:37 +0100

The team discusses the debut of the NHSX Covid-19 app, the merger of O2 and Virgin Media, Facebook's new "supreme court" and Microsoft's big bet on Windows 10X. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Philips Brilliance 346P, a huge 34in desktop monitor.

PC Pro Podcast 488

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 13:48:58 +0100

The team discusses a dodgy Windows Update, Lenovo's new Linux-based ThinkPads, the ups and downs of life in lockdown and a tool that turns your Canon DSLR into a webcam. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Huawei's P40 Pro - an Android smartphone that ships without Google apps and services.

PC Pro Podcast 487

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 13:40:17 +0100

The team discusses the UK's new coronavirus tracking app, a major vulnerability in the iOS Mail app, Sonos' new music streaming service and security enhancements to the Zoom videoconferencing platform. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Apple's Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro.

PC Pro Podcast 486

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 13:29:10 +0100

The team is joined by BCS director Carl Harris, who introduces the society's campaign to recognise the role of IT workers during the coronavirus pandemic. We also discuss Google's plans to create its own CPUs and welcome new warnings over video games that invite users to pay for randomised "loot boxes". Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Fitbit Charge 4, a fitness tracker with a built-in GPS receiver.

PC Pro Podcast 485

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 13:31:41 +0100

The team discusses the spread of misinformation over 5G masts, new limits on WhatsApp forwards, free access to Google Stadia and how libraries are distributing works during the lockdown. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Chord Electronics Hugo 2, a high-end audio streaming system.

PC Pro Podcast 484

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 14:29:07 +0100

The team discusses security concerns over the suddenly ubiquitous Zoom videoconferencing platform, Microsoft's software subscription plans, a new web-filtering service from CloudFlare and Apple's acquisition of the popular Dark Sky weather app. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Asus' ZenWiFi AC mesh extender system.

PC Pro Podcast 483

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 14:19:05 +0100

The team says goodbye to Bill Gates as he steps down from the Microsoft board, looks ahead to Android 11, sizes up Apple's new iPad Pro and MacBook Air models and shares tips on working fom home. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the somewhat pricey Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra smartphone.

PC Pro Podcast 482

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 14:41:05 +0100

The team discusses the technological implications of the coronavirus outbreak, forthcoming features for Pixel phones, the ethical issues raised by face-scanning technology and a new role for Cortana. Our Hot hardware candidate is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, a folding smartphone with a horizontal hinge.

PC Pro Podcast 481

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 14:25:59 +0100

The team asks whether Macs need antivirus software, discusses unfortunate problems with a recent Windows 10 update, wishes Photoshop a happy 30th birthday and ponders the tale of the smart car that refused to drive home. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the LG Gram 17, an ultra-lightweight laptop with a huge screen.

PC Pro Podcast 480

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 14:32:43 +0100

The team discusses the rise of artificially manipulated photos and videos, the artist who created a virtual traffic jam, the creative potential of the iPad and Google's latest financial report. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Nvidia GeForce NOW, the graphics giant's new streaming gaming service. Well, it has to be running on hardware somewhere, right?

PC Pro Podcast 479

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 14:43:37 +0100

The team discusses Sonos bricking its own products, a first look at Microsoft's twin-screened Surface Duo smartphone and the alleged hack attack on Jeff Bezos. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Netgear Orbi WiFi 6, the world's first 802.11ax mesh networking platform.

PC Pro Podcast 478

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 20:55:29 +0100

In a special podcast direct from Las Vegas, Tim Danton and Jon Honeyball discuss the latest news and product announcements from CES 2020.

PC Pro Podcast 477

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 15:06:22 +0100

The team tests their knowledge of tech news and trivia in our traditional end-of-year quiz.

PC Pro Podcast 476

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 14:34:34 +0100

The team discusses new password-security features in Chrome, rumours of a socketless iPhone, the future of Intel and the end of the line for Windows 7. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the 16in Apple MacBook Pro.

PC Pro Podcast - How do you know it’s time to retire IT kit?

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 09:13:48 +0100

PC Pro Podcast - How do you know it’s time to retire IT kit? by PC Pro

PC Pro Podcast 475

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 14:18:47 +0100

The team discusses Uber losing its licence in London, Twitter’s plan to delete dormant accounts, Tim Berners-Lee’s contract for an ethical web, and the amazing vanishing features in Windows 10. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Stadia, Google’s online gaming system.

PC Pro Podcast: Buy IT to grow not slow your business

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 08:43:45 +0100

Small businesses often make the mistake of buying IT that meets their immediate needs but won’t grow with their business, whether that’s buying a server without expansion options or a laptop that isn’t fit for purpose. PC Pro editor-in-chief Tim Danton hosts a lively debate with columnist and IT consultant Jon Honeyball plus associate editor Darien Graham-Smith. Made in association with Dell Small Business.

PC Pro Podcast Dell Special 1

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 09:07:36 +0100

While Black Friday started life as bargain hunting for Christmas buyers, an increasing number of small businesses are taking advantage. In this special podcast in association with Dell Small Business, PC Pro editor-in-chief Tim Danton discusses the savings to be made, and the pitfalls to avoid, with columnist and IT consultant Jon Honeyball and associate editor Darien Graham-Smith.

PC Pro Podcast 474

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 14:40:43 +0100

The team discusses Google's new initiatives against slow websites and Android malware; the uninspiring Windows 10 November Update; and the potentially more interesting new 16in Apple MacBook Pro. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Laptop 3.

PC Pro Podcast 473

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 14:49:35 +0100

The team discusses a rap on the knuckles for Amazon; a ratings glitch in the Apple App Store; Netflix's proposed new speed controls; Samsung's fresh take on foldable phones; and a data leak affecting Adobe Creative Cloud subscribers. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Sphero RVR, a programmable robotic vehicle.

PC Pro Podcast 472

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 13:13:41 +0100

The team discusses the demise of the government’s porn-registry plans; setbacks for Facebook’s Libra cryptocurrency; Fortnite’s devastating season-end stunt; and the attractions of the National Museum of Computing. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Google’s new Pixel 4 smartphone.

PC Pro Podcast 471

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:40:11 +0100

The team discusses all the news from Microsoft's big Surface event, takes the new iPad OS for a spin, weighs up new privacy protections from Google and ponders the longevity of the pager. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Cosmo Communicator, a versatile mobile device that harks back to the pocket computers of the 1990s.

PC Pro Podcast 470

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 13:24:47 +0100

The team discusses Apple's new iPhone and iPad models, the official launch of Wi-Fi 6, Google's absorption of DeepMind (and its associated NHS data) and controversy over the routine use of facial recognition technology. Our hot hardware candidate is the HP Envy x360 13, a glamorous convertible laptop with an AMD processor inside.

PC Pro Podcast 469

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 14:03:20 +0100

The team catches up with the news from IFA in Berlin, checks out the latest release of Android, mulls over the surveillance implications of the Ring doorbell and looks forward to a new tablet experience in Windows 10. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the BT Signal Assist, a domestic 3G transmitter that uses your router to deliver rock-solid reception.

PC Pro Podcast 468

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 14:53:25 +0100

The team discusses Google's open-sourcing of its speech-to-text technology, and asks whether the search giant has too much power. We also explore the recent sale of Tumblr, and ask why Amazon never seems to make a profit. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Dell Latitude 5420, a heavyweight laptop that's designed to survive some serious abuse.

PC Pro Podcast 467

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 13:58:44 +0100

The team discusses AMD's new 7nm server chips, a host of product launches from Samsung, freedom of speech on 8chan and other sites and Google's plans to give rival search engines a leg up - for a price. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Amazon Echo Show 5.

Podcast 466

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 15:25:20 +0100

The team discusses the latest developments in 5G networking, incoming regulations for online purchases and the new Prime Minister's ambitious target for fibre broadband in the UK. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus RT-AX88U, a powerful router that supports 802.11ax, also known as Wi-Fi 6.

Podcast 465

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 13:35:31 +0100

On a packed podcast the team discusses ISPA's attack on Mozilla, détente between Amazon and Google, the world's worst user interface, a new way to exfiltrate data from air-gapped computers – and more. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the HP Spectre Folio, a convertible laptop encased in luxurious brown leather.

PC Pro Podcast 464

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 13:41:25 +0100

The team discusses a new tool for messing with advertisers, Google's plan to educate kids about fake news, a light-based networking platform that could replace Wi-Fi and the arrival of AI in PowerPoint. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the tiny but surprisingly capable Raspberry Pi 4 Model B.

Podcast 463

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 13:39:08 +0100

The team discusses new surveillance technologies, some highlights of the E3 expo and the future of Dropbox and Firefox. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus Vivobook 14S, an affordable laptop with a trackpad that doubles as a touchscreen.

Podcast 462

Thu, 30 May 2019 13:38:34 +0100

The team discusses the latest news from Computex in Taipei, asks whether Huawei might make its own mobile OS, ponders Amazon's plans to offload small suppliers and pores over Dolby's legal complaint against Adobe. Amid the bonanza of new hardware emanating from Computex, no fewer than three Hot Hardware candidates duke it out.

Podcast 461

Thu, 16 May 2019 13:39:19 +0100

The team discusses a new online accountability initiative, news from Microsoft's Build conference and Lenovo's plans for a weird foldable laptop. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Oculus Quest, a wire-free VR headset.

Podcast 460

Thu, 02 May 2019 13:47:47 +0100

The team discusses Uber's sudden love affair with public transport, an audio upgrade for Netflix users, the latest from Facebook's F8 conference and the 20th anniversary of the optical mouse. Our hot hardware candidate is the Orbi Voice, a mesh Wi-Fi system with Alexa built in.

Podcast 459

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 13:48:58 +0100

The team discusses problems with Samsung's folding phones, Switzerland's rejection of the cashless society, incoming age restrictions for adult content and a handy little Google Home device for your car. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the AmpliFi Instant Home Mesh, a cheap and simple wireless extender system.

Podcast 458

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 13:26:47 +0100

The team discusses the shuttering of some high-profile Google services, and the closure of Microsoft's ebook store. But it's not all gloom, as Apple announces a range of new subscription services, and Firefox clamps down on notification requests. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the new Apple iPad mini.

Podcast 457

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 14:39:46 +0100

The team discusses Wikipedia's protest against new EU copyright laws; asks whether an AI would do a better job than our politicians; looks forward to a new browser ballot; and mulls the potential of Google's new Stadia game-streaming service. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Studio 2, a premium all-in-one PC aimed at creatives.

PC Pro Podcast 456

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:35:02 +0100

On an unusually wide-ranging podcast the team discusses depreciating phone values; rumours of a new "Lite" edition of Windows; the latest updates to the USB standards; controversy over a flagrantly offensive video game; the growing nuisance of Instagram tourists; and the end of Amazon's Dash buttons. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Shadow Ghost, a compact box that streams high-end PC games over the internet.

Podcast 455

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 14:51:53 +0100

The team discusses the secret microphone inside Google's Nest Guard hardware, Amazon's investment in autonomous delivery vehicles and continued rumblings over the UK's relationship with Huawei. Nathan Spendelow joins with news of Samsung's new folding phone, and the Samsung Galaxy S10 is our Hot Hardware candidate.

Podcast 454

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 14:32:25 +0100

The team discusses the opening of the first Raspberry Pi shop, Apple's sanctions against Facebook, an end to (some types of) high-pressure online sales tactics and Spotify's expansion into podcasts. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the BlackBerry Key2 LE, which is exactly what you'd expect.

Podcast 453

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 14:29:19 +0100

The team discusses new measures to combat fake news, warnings over insecure routers and the future of Windows, Office - and Cortana. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Toshiba Portégé X30T-E, a business-oriented laptop with a detachable tablet for a screen.

Podcast 452

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 11:10:03 +0100

Catch up on the biggest news from CES 2019, as Jon Honeyball, Barry Collins and Tim Danton share their first-hand experiences. We cover the Royole flexible display and the latest laptop news, and reveal our favourite products from the show.

Podcast 451

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 14:06:02 +0100

In our traditional Christmas quiz, the team's knowledge of the year's tech news and products is put to the test.

Podcast 450

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 15:08:09 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft's plan to migrate its Edge browser to the Chromium engine, Alexa's burgeoning AI capabilities, Facebook's ongoing fake news problem and a boost for cryptocurrencies. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the NEC MultiSync EA271U, a sumptuous (but pricey) 4K monitor.

Podcast 449

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 14:44:37 +0100

The team discusses suspicions over Chinese telecoms hardware, the rise of electric bikes, smartphones in restaurants and the UK government's attempts to bring Facebook to account. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Huawei MateBook X Pro, a stylish Windows laptop that gives Dell and Microsoft a run for their money.

Podcast 448

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 14:34:16 +0100

The team discusses AR contact lenses, fines for EE and Virgin, computer-generated newsreaders and the dangers of "hustle porn". Three be our Hot Hardware candidates: the new MacBook Air, the new Mac mini and the new iPad Pro.

Podcast 447

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 22:20:57 +0100

The team asks: is the golden age of big technology firms coming to an end? Is Bitcoin a bubble? Will robots soon be delivering our shopping? And why on earth has IBM bought Red Hat? Our Hot Hardware candidate is Shadow, a remote streaming service that lets you rent the use of a gaming PC on a monthly basis.

Podcast 446

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 15:00:05 +0100

The team discusses the passing of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, Facebook's new rival to the Echo Show, licensing changes for Android and the arrival of Photoshop for the iPad. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Huawei Mate 20 Pro, an upmarket smartphone with some clever tricks up its shiny sleeve.

Podcast 445

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 13:51:35 +0100

The PC Pro team unpicks the Facebook data "scandal", gives its early thoughts on the new Surface hardware and Windows 10 October update, and tries to decide if Amazon has done the right thing by raising wages. Plus, the hot hardware of the week: an Asus ultraportable with a difference.

Podcast 444

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 14:48:24 +0100

Is Jeff Bezos a force for good or in it for the headlines? The team discusses his latest altruistic project, before analysing the likely success - or otherwise - of the latest challenger to Intel's dominance. Plus hologram phone calls, Jon Honeyball's take on the Equifax fine and our verdict on the hot hardware of the week: the iPhone XS.

Podcast 443

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 13:43:34 +0100

The team discusses the pick of new technology from IFA, potential challengers for Adobe's throne, some thought-provoking AI applications and 20 years of Google. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Surface Go, the latest in Microsoft's neverending procession of tablet-cum-laptop hybrids.

Podcast 442

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 13:45:37 +0100

The team discusses Nvidia's new graphics cards, which feature groundbreaking ray-tracing technology; Facebook's plan to award trustworthiness scores to users; Microsoft's discovery of apparent Russian political meddling; and Jeremy Corbyn's suggestion that online journalism could be funded by a technology tax. Our Hot Hardware candidate is AMD's new 32-core Threadripper 2 CPU.

Podcast 441

Thu, 09 Aug 2018 14:30:28 +0100

eng||The team discusses a new Firefox extension that helps you discover new content; a price hike for Office; warnings over Chinese technology; and the banning of Alex Jones from online platforms. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus ZenFone 5.

Podcast 440

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 13:55:32 +0100

The team discusses the government’s pledge to run fibre to every British home by 2030; controversy over Apple’s overheating laptops; Samsung’s unbreakable OLED displays; and a possible end to Windows Update woes. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Tenda Nova MW3, a Wi-Fi mesh networking system costing just £92.

Podcast 439

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 13:49:45 +0100

The team discusses the Apple App Store’s tenth birthday; a not very big fine for Facebook; the UK’s new culture secretary; and the arrival of YouTube Premium. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus Chromebox, a box that runs Chrome OS.

Podcast 438

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 14:03:17 +0100

The team discusses the abrupt departure of Intel’s CEO; the new WPA3 wireless security standard; a misconceived copyright proposal; and problems with Apple keyboards. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Dell G3 – a big-screen, low-cost gaming laptop.

Podcast 437

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 13:46:56 +0100

The team discusses a serious data breach at Dixons, Amazon’s move into TV sports, Microsoft’s acquisition of GitHub and a huge EU fine for Google. Our hot hardware candidate is the Rocketbook, a pen-and-paper notebook with an app of its own.

Podcast 436

Thu, 31 May 2018 13:47:06 +0100

The team discusses the fallout from GDPR, warnings of router-based malware, the BBC's plans to stream World Cup football matches in 4K, and the strange case of the eavesdropping Amazon Echo. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Acer Chromebook Spin 13, a natty convertible laptop.

PC Pro podcast 435

Thu, 17 May 2018 14:05:26 +0100

The team discusses a new AI from Google that can make phone calls on your behalf, the future of Windows, the highlights of Fujitsu's technology showcase and the advent of GDPR. Our hot hardware candidate is the Sennheiser Ambeo, a headset that makes binaural recordings.

Podcast 434

Thu, 03 May 2018 13:48:03 +0100

Jon Honeyball joins the team to discuss the Windows 10 April Update, a first look at Office 2019, the latest wheezes from Facebook and an embarrassing outage for TSB. Vaughn Highfield drops in too, to talk about the Oculus Go, a VR headset costing an almost reasonable £199.

Podcast 433

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 13:54:25 +0100

Podcast 433 by PC Pro

PC Pro podcast 432

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 13:44:51 +0100

Jon Honeyball and Nicole Kobie join the podcast to discuss the fallout from the Cambridge Analytica scandal, Apple's plan to create its own CPUs and a reorganisation at Microsoft. Our hot hardware candidate is Dell's latest XPS 13 laptop.

Podcast 431

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 14:36:55 +0100

Jon Honeyball joins the team as we discuss Facebook’s data-mining scandal, new concerns over the legality of Bitcoin, Microsoft’s fumbled acquisition of Wunderlist and Uber’s fatal self-driving car crash. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the JBL Link 20, a battery-powered smart speaker running Google Assistant.

Podcast 430

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 14:40:18 +0100

The team discusses Spotify's financial challenges, new features coming to Windows 10, Amazon's acquisition of the Ring smart doorbell and the controversial topic of violence in video games. Our hot hardware candidate is the KitSound Voice One, a British spin on the Amazon Echo.

Podcast 429

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 14:36:50 +0100

The team discusses Google’s plan to block dodgy ads, Windows 10’s new “Ultimate Performance” mode, Apple’s iPhone X woes and new fears over the potential of malicious AI. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Matrix PowerWatch, a smart wearable that’s powered by your own body.

Podcast 428

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 14:39:12 +0100

The team explores Windows 10's new "S Mode", plus Microsoft's plans to banish misleading "scareware" from the platform. We also discuss TalkTalk's entry into the fibre broadband market, and a legal setback for the Snooper's Charter. Jonathan Bray introduces our Hot Hardware candidate, the Apple HomePod.

Podcast 427

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 14:37:04 +0100

The team discusses Windows 10's new Timeline feature; Sky's plan to ditch dishes; a legal investigation into planned obsolescence; and the final demise of the Pebble. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Book 2.

Podcast 426

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 10:09:15 +0100

CES special: Tim Danton, Barry Collins and Jon Honeyball discuss the latest announcements and product launches at the world's largest electronics expo.

Podcast 425

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 14:02:10 +0100

It's Christmas, and that means it's quiz time on the PC Pro podcast. The team face questions on recent and not-so-recent developments in technology, while the live listeners do their best to sow misinformation and doubt.

Podcast 424

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 15:28:02 +0100

CES' Steve Koenig joins the team to discuss upcoming tech trends for 2018. We also look at new developments in AI, the looming threat to net neutrality and the emerging phenomenon of "cryptojacking", whereby websites surreptitiously steal your PC's spare cycles to mine digital currency. Our hot hardware candidate is the TP-Link B130 smart lightbulb.

Podcast 423

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 14:50:21 +0100

The team discusses a major security hole in macOS, Google’s privacy violations, the arrival of HDMI 2.1 and a data leak through Amazon’s Mechanical Turk service. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote.

Podcast 422

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 14:42:17 +0100

The team discusses the latest version of Firefox, looks forward to 5G mobile networks, ponders the best Black Friday deals and explores how social media is being used to disrupt elections. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Asus Zenbook UX410UA, a tasty laptop at a tempting price.

Podcast 421

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 14:48:30 +0100

The team discusses an online furore over emoji; ponders a new technology that could mean you never miss an Amazon delivery again; asks whether Silicon Valley needs regulating; and laments MailChimp's big step backwards in privacy protections. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Google Pixelbook, a £999 Chromebook that's capable of running Android apps.

Podcast 420

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 13:45:46 +0100

The team discusses a critical hole in Wi-Fi security, Adobe's confusing new Lightroom offering, disappointing reviews for the Pixel 2 XL and Dropbox's new "Professional" service tier. Our Hot Hardware candidate is another wireless doorbell, yay.

Podcast 419

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 13:40:12 +0100

The team discusses a flurry of new hardware from both Google and Amazon - plus spying allegations against security publisher Kaspersky Lab and new research revealing how smartphone notifications could be affecting your mood. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Intel's new Core i7-8700K, the company's six-core answer to AMD's mighty Ryzen chips.

Podcast 418

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 14:06:14 +0100

The team discusses the latest launches from Apple, a disastrous data breach at Equifax, Google's big investment in HTC, and a new data-driven taxi-sharing service. Our hot hardware candidate is the Logitech Craft, a keyboard with a built-in twiddly knob.

Podcast 417

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 14:01:47 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft's vision for "mixed reality", plus other new features in the Fall Creators Update; asks whether you have the right to use all the data you pay for; and discusses incursions into the movie industry by Amazon and Apple. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Studio, a huge all-in-one PC with a price to match.

Podcast 416

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 16:21:04 +0100

The team discusses the arrival of the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Intel’s newest processors, a novel approach to paywalled content and the enforced grounding of a popular drone. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Acronis True Image 2018. We know, we know.

Podcast 415

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 13:14:11 +0100

The team discusses misguided password advice, Google's diversity controversy, Microsoft updates and Facebook's planned expansion into video. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the PC Specialist Vulcan X 02, a versatile desktop PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 1600X processor.

Podcast 414

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 13:37:40 +0100

The team discusses ransomware payouts, a stiff fine for Apple, Google’s sneaky efforts to get employees to eat more healthily and the end of the line for Adobe Flash. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Intel’s huge ten-core Core i9-7900X processor.

Podcast 413

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 13:52:51 +0100

The team discusses Google's new backup service, the rise of "esports", net neutrality protests and the end of the line for Windows Phone. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Loupedeck, a dedicated control unit for Adobe Lightroom.

Podcast 412

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 13:43:58 +0100

The team discusses Google's huge EU fine, the iPhone's tenth birthday, technical support scams and the potential of online virtual worlds. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Token Ring - not the networking technology, but an NFC-equipped item of jewellery.

Podcast 411

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 13:19:20 +0100

Jon Honeyball joins the team to discuss the latest news from Apple's WWDC event, new features for Cortana, and Amazon's Alexa-enabled Dash Wand. Our Hot Hardware candidate is Microsoft's Surface Laptop.

Podcast 410

Thu, 18 May 2017 14:47:37 +0100

Real-worlders Jon Honeyball and Steve Cassidy join the regular team as we discuss news from Google I/O, Amazon’s new Echo Show, Facebook’s attempts to clamp down on clickbait and – inevitably – the recent NHS ransomware attack. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the BlackBerry KEYone, a smartphone with a physical keyboard that makes its ridiculous name slightly easier to type.

Podcast 409

Thu, 04 May 2017 13:18:04 +0100

Anyone for 10 S? The team discusses Microsoft's new locked-down edition of Windows, ponders a new approach to wireless charging, asks whether the smartphone's days are numbered, and finds out what happens to your data when you die. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Surface Laptop.

Podcast 408

Thu, 20 Apr 2017 13:18:47 +0100

Ian Betteridge joins the team as we discuss Facebook's big plans for future tech, ponder Google's move into ad-blocking, ask whether Kickstarter has lost its lustre, and weigh up the latest announcements from Microsoft. Our hot hardware candidate is, shockingly, the Samsung Galaxy S8.

Podcast 407

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 13:13:54 +0100

The team discusses the latest political row over encryption; a change of direction for the Mac Pro; good news for Pebble owners; and Microsoft's promise of greater transparency over privacy in Windows 10. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Triby, an Alexa-enabled kitchen radio.

Podcast 406

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:50:51 +0100

Ian Betteridge and Nicole Kobie join the podcast to discuss Android O, concerns over the sharing of NHS patient data, and the role of digital surveillance in the age of drones. Our Hot Hardware candidate is in fact a software service, namely Microsoft Teams, Redmond's would-be rival to Slack.

Podcast 405

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:44:59 +0100

Steve Cassidy joins the team as we discuss new surveillance revelations from Wikileaks, adverts in Windows 10, Amazon's S3 outage and Alexa's role in a US court case. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the retro-styled Nokia 3310 phone.

Podcast 404

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 14:31:18 +0100

Nicole Kobie joins the regular team to discuss smartphone separation anxiety, the challenges for semi-autonomous cars, proposals to tax robot workers and the Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa. Our Hot Hardware candidate is AMD's new Ryzen CPU design, which lays down a stark challenge to Intel's high-end chips.

Podcast 403

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 14:44:27 +0100

Microsoft's new "Cloud" edition of Windows 10 heads up this fortnight's podcast; we also discuss Google's "zoom and enhance" image-processing technology, plus video piracy and social media passwords. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the long-awaited Android Wear 2.

Podcast 402

Fri, 27 Jan 2017 15:32:44 +0100

The team discusses the latest major update to Windows 10, plus news of Android on Chromebooks and Sky's planned shift from satellite to online TV services. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Microsoft Hololens.

Podcast 401

Fri, 06 Jan 2017 10:20:56 +0100

In this special podcast, recorded on location in Las Vegas, the team discusses the latest announcements at CES 2017.

Podcast 400

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 17:13:00 +0100

It's quiz time! In our last podcast of 2016, team members are tested on their knowledge of technology news, products and personalities.

Podcast 399

Thu, 01 Dec 2016 15:09:42 +0100

The team discusses the newly-passed "Snooper's Charter", Fitbit's acquisition of Pebble, an international move for the Internet Archive and Ofcom's ruling that BT and Openreach must split. Our hot hardware candidate is the Seagate Duet, an external hard disk that automatically backs up its contents to Amazon Cloud.

Podcast 398

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 16:28:14 +0100

The team discusses the rise of fake news, curses misleading broadband advertising and ponders the value of free online learning resources - all while bravely battling through sporadic audio glitches. Our hot hardware candidate is the Lenovo Yoga Book.

Podcast 397

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 10:47:31 +0100

The team discusses Microsoft's new Slack rival, the UK's plan to develop a cyber-attack force and Elon Musk's vision of a solar-powered revolution. Our hot hardware candidate, inevitably, is the new MacBook Pro.

Podcast 396

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 14:29:01 +0100

The team discusses the future of Twitter; subsidised broadband; virtual Friends; and Kodak's first smartphone. Our Hot Hardware candidate is the Amazon Echo Dot.

Podcast 395

Thu, 06 Oct 2016 13:35:28 +0100

Five years on from the death of Steve Jobs, the team considers his legacy. We also discuss more news of exploding batteries for Samsung, and meet Google's new Pixel smartphones. Our hot hardware is the Amazon Echo personal assistant.

Podcast 394

Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:30:33 +0100

The team discusses a security breach at Yahoo!; weighs up complaints about the Windows 10 upgrade; welcomes Microsoft's investment in health technology; and discovers a new way to hack an iPhone for just $75. Our hot hardware is, you guessed it, the iPhone 7.

Podcast 393

Thu, 08 Sep 2016 13:42:43 +0100

The team discusses the launch of the iPhone 7; the arrival of Intel's latest Kaby Lake processors; and new products and services coming to the UK from Amazon.

Podcast 392

Fri, 26 Aug 2016 16:04:49 +0100

The team discusses Apple's rumoured plan to ditch the 3.5mm headphone socket; asks whether social media is a breeding ground for terrorists; and mulls over a new laptop screen technology designed to stop "shoulder-surfing". Our hot hardware candidate is actually an operating system, namely Android 7, a.k.a. "Nougat".

Podcast 391

Thu, 11 Aug 2016 13:47:26 +0100

The team discusses Vodafone's plans to scrap line rental fees; Facebook's attempts to expunge clickbait and defeat ad-blockers; and the 25th anniversary of the worldwide web. Our hot hardware candidate is, once again, the Ring wireless doorbell.