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

Podcasting Industry Challenges: Discussing the recent layoffs at Spotify, where around 1,500 jobs, or 17% of its workforce, were cut. This was the third round of layoffs in 2023, as Spotify aimed to become more productive and efficient amidst slow economic growth and rising capital costs. Despite strong user growth and subscriber numbers, Spotify faced … Read more

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

In this episode of Friday Finds, we discuss Amazon’s shift to its own software for smart devices, potential safety challenges with robots, an exciting block-based programming app called OctoStudio, and invite listener feedback. Tune in for updates! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/fridayfinds/e876384b-ee81-43e4-a2f6-4c31ae3e1c9c This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no … Read more

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

In this episode of Friday Finds, we discuss the recent nationwide test of public alerts conducted by FEMA and the FCC. We also explore the complexities of delivering widespread alerts in the digital age and the need for collaboration among technology providers. We delve into the potential risks and misuse of AI technologies, including the … Read more

Be My Eyes’ Return, Lady A’s Subscription Dilemma, and ChatGPT+’s Bing Integration”

In this episode of “Friday Finds,” we have some exciting news to share. Be My Eyes is bringing back facial image descriptions, enhancing accessibility for blind individuals. Amazon’s Lady A may introduce a subscription fee, raising concerns about affordability. ChatGPT+ now includes the Bing search component, adding value for research purposes. Thank you for tuning … Read more

“Exploring Subscription Social Media & AI Challenges: A Deep Dive into Privacy Concerns”

In this episode of Friday Finds, we discuss the potential implementation of subscription fees on social media platforms, exploring how they could reduce spam and improve quality. We also address concerns about subscription fatigue and the exclusion of voices. We highlight the partnership between Be My Eyes and OpenAI, examining the limitations of AI image … Read more

“Clubhouse’s Comeback, The Rise of Private Groups & Marks & Spencer’s Innovation for the Blind”

In this episode, we explore the decline of Clubhouse and its attempt to revive itself with a new chat feature. We also discuss the growing preference for closed communities and its potential impact on organizations like ACB. Additionally, we highlight Marks & Spencer’s Braille gift cards, bringing accessibility and joy to the blind community. Don’t … Read more

Friday Finds: Empowering Tech? Social Media Revamp & Canine AI

Friday Finds Podcast Cover

In this episode of Friday Finds, we share good news about the resolution of the iOS 17 braille display bug. We also discuss a smart headband called EYECAN, designed to assist blind individuals in navigating swimming pools. We explore the changing landscape of social media and the emergence of platforms offering more control. Additionally, we … Read more