In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam and Jay explore the evolving world of drone deliveries and the massive infrastructure needed to make Jeff Bezos' 2013 vision a reality. They unpack the complex concept of UTM (Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management), a new FAA initiative designed to prevent drone-to-drone and drone-to-aircraft collisions. From line-of-sight limits to NASA’s involvement in building air traffic systems for drones, the hosts explore how close we are to fully autonomous delivery networks and the strategic deconfliction challenges that still lie ahead.

They also shift gears to discuss emergency satellite features on modern smartphones like the iPhone 14 and beyond. Learn how these devices can connect to satellites for 911 calls even without cell service, the difference between Apple’s SOS system and Elon Musk’s Starlink partnership with T-Mobile, and where this technology is heading. The episode wraps up with thoughts on navigation apps, flip phones, and a clever prank involving a wagon full of smartphones. A lively, insightful episode on where tech is headed—and what’s still holding it back!

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Jay and Sam tackle the tech world, starting with a candid discussion about Google’s evolution — from a once-loved innovator to a company known for shuttering promising projects. They critique Google’s approach to product development and the implications of its experiment claiming that news is “worthless” to its ad business. This leads to a broader conversation on the value of news in the digital economy and the ongoing tug-of-war between content creators and tech platforms.

The duo also covers Google’s steep discounts to the U.S. government for its business apps, highlighting the brewing competition with Microsoft. Wrapping things up, they compare budget-friendly phones like the Google Pixel 9a and Apple’s iPhone SE, weigh the pros and cons of flagship devices, and speculate on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 — tariffs, features, and all. It’s a full-throttle ride through big tech's latest moves, with insights into where innovation, economics, and consumer needs collide!

In this episode of TechWatch Radio, Jay and Sam dive into the wave of tech layoffs hitting companies like Jack Dorsey’s Block (parent of Square and CashApp), where nearly 1,000 employees were recently let go. They unpack the rising influence of AI across industries like accounting and development — and explore whether these layoffs are financially driven or a strategic shift toward automation. Should AI replace workers or empower teams to accomplish more with the same headcount?

The conversation shifts to mental health, where AI chatbots are emerging as accessible, private, and nonjudgmental companions. Sam challenges the headlines claiming bots are replacing therapists, arguing instead that these tools are best used as helpful supplements — much like consulting WebMD before seeing a doctor. With humor, nostalgia (hello, push-button phones!), and insight, the duo explores how society — not just tech — shapes how innovations like video calling and AI therapy are adopted. It’s not about fearing AI; it’s about shaping it to serve us, not own us.