Tech Life

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Tech Life is at CES in Las Vegas, one of the world's biggest consumer tech shows. We hunt for some of the event's weirdest tech, and speak to the people behind the showcase. Plus, why is the tech world now obsessed with cars? 

We love hearing from you. Get in touch by emailing us on techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +443301230320.

Presented and produced by Imran Rahman-Jones, Alasdair Keane and Lily Jamali

Edited by Monica Soriano

(Image: The neon 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign lit up against a blue sky. Credit: Getty Images.)

Tech Life is at CES in Las Vegas, one of the world's biggest consumer tech shows. We hunt for some of the event's weirdest tech, and speak to some of the people behind it.

[LISTEN NOW]

This week we're looking at artificial intelligence and how it can discriminate against us, affecting our chances of getting work or being approved for a loan. What causes it ?

On the flip side - could it be AI to the rescue ? We learn about a computer model that predicts the behaviour of people who go missing. Could it help emergency services find those lost in the wilderness ?

And Tech Life's gaming expert gets hands-on with the new Nintendo Switch 2.

You can tell us about the one item of tech that you use in your life everyday – please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A hand holds a magnifying glass with the word BIAS magnified on a white background. Credit: Getty Images)

What is AI discrimination, and can it be fixed ?

[LISTEN NOW]

This week on Tech Life, we speak to the company behind an AI safe driving device that's fitted to thousands of delivery vans and fleet vehicles around the world. Using cameras and an onboard AI system, it assesses how safely a vehicle is being driven. And it warns both the driver, and their manager, if it spots a serious safety risk inside or outside the vehicle.

Also this week, we find out about cargo drones parachuting humanitarian aid into parts of central Africa. And what can children tell us about AI ?

We enjoy reading your messages about Tech Life. Please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

You can use the same contact details to send us any questions you've ever wanted to have answered about quantum computers. We're hoping to gather up your questions and ask an expert about quantum computing for a future episode.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: A photo taken inside a car of the road ahead and other road traffic outside. Credit: egon69/Getty Images

Find out about the AI safe driving system that's watching the road ahead, and the driver.

[LISTEN NOW]

A former US Air Force engineer found articles about her were removed from the internet, on US government instructions. She tells us why she wants to archive them for the future. Then, we go inside Africa's biggest tech market. Plus, the blind astronomer who listens to space. And quantum computers may be on the verge of a breakthrough. We explain why this matters.

Tell us about the one bit of tech you use in your life everyday – get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: Ex-US Air Force flight test engineer Jessica Peterson in the back seat of a T-38, taking a selfie video as the plane does an upside down roll. Credit: Getty Images)

How the US government's crackdown on diversity deleted women's military contributions.

[LISTEN NOW]

Also on Tech Life:

In Kenya, Direct Air Capture technology is being designed, manufactured and deployed in the vast Rift valley.

And the commute of the future is being mapped out and planned today - find out about digital twinning.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A doctor examines an X-ray image on a tablet. Credit: Athima Tongloom/Getty Images)

AI is acting as a second pair of eyes for radiologists examining X-rays.

PHOTO CREDIT: PonyWang, Getty Images.

Should schools be teaching pupils about AI ? We take a look at the global picture.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An illustration of facial recognition on the face of a woman. Credit: Francesco Carta fotografo/Getty Images)

Tech Life looks at icebergs. Climate change means there are more of them in our oceans, breaking away and slowly melting. Scientists need to study them - but how ? We speak to an expert about robotic gliders, which are opening up new research opportunities.

Also in this edition, can we trust artificial intelligence ? One of its problems is that it hallucinates, so we find out more about it.

How can tech help people who are blind or partially sighted watch TV ?

And our reporter gets his hands dirty examining rhino poo!

You can tell us about the one item of tech that you use in your life everyday – please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photograph of a robotic glider suspended above the water. Credit: Doctor Natasha Lucas)

How do you get close enough to study a gigantic mass of ice floating in cold waters ?

[LISTEN NOW]

Tech Life is looking at big data - and how important it is to healthcare. Specifically, how it can help women's health. A femtech company in the United States is using monthly menstrual and hormone data gathered from thousands of women to gain new insights into the symptoms which lead-up to the menopause - the time in their lives when women's periods stop. We speak to the company's co-founder and CEO.

Also on Tech Life this week:

A global survey weighs up the influence of social media and AI on accurate news and information. And, are chatbots changing the way we search for information online ?

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producers: Imran Rahman-Jones and Tom Quinn

(Photo: A woman checks a health app on her smartphone. Credit: Getty Images)

We're talking about data and artificial intelligence - how it can help women's healthcare

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenters: Shiona McCallum with Paul Carter

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of presenter Shiona McCallum in the Tech Life studio with technology reporter Paul Carter. Credit: BBC)

This week Tech Life has a special programme about the technology of artificial limbs.

Thousands of tonnes of excess sewage, manure, food waste and paper sludge are being pumped hundreds of meters underground in the USA, where it will stay for centuries, preventing greenhouse gases from being released. Microsoft is backing the method to help offset carbon emissions. We speak to the co-founder and CEO of Vaulted Deep.

Also on Tech Life: We sound out some in the music industry about the impact of generative AI. And a high altitude Tech Life listener tells us about the time his tech went wrong.

We enjoy reading your messages about Tech Life. Please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320. Please include your name and where you live.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: Slurry injection technology in use on location in the USA. Credit: Vaulted Deep

An American waste management company is storing organic waste deep underground.

Thousands of tonnes of excess sewage, manure, food waste and paper sludge are being pumped hundreds of metres underground in the USA, where it will stay for centuries.

[LISTEN NOW]

We hear from experts on the pros and cons of using AI in the healthcare world. Plus ex-Minecraft YouTuber Stampy, AKA Joseph Garrett, on turning to game design. But are console games getting too expensive? And the students from India whose innovative renewable energy tech has won a prestigious award.

This week's Tech Life was presented by Shiona McCallum and produced by Imran Rahman-Jones. Our editor is Monica Soriano.

(Image: A stethoscope with a small screen on it, shown a person's heart rate at 76 BPM. A hand hold it to a person's chest.)

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producers: Alasdair Keane and Tom Quinn

(Photo: Charging an electric bike. Credit: Henglein and Steets/Getty Images)

What can be done to make charging them safer ?

A study found AI chatbots can persuade us with fake facts. We explore what this means for politics. Then we speak to author of The Web Beneath the Waves, Samanth Subramanian, about the importance of undersea cables. Plus: The scientists working together with nuns to save salamanders in a lake in Mexico.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editors: Monica Soriano & Tom Singleton

(Image: A colourful composite of a woman with her chin resting on her hands, looking confused. Behind her is an illustration of a laptop. Credit: Getty Images)

A study found AI chatbots can persuade us with fake facts. How does this affect politics?

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

A study found AI chatbots can persuade us with fake facts. How does this affect politics? Plus the importance of undersea cables, and scientists work with nuns to save salamanders.

[LISTEN NOW]

The launch of China's DeepSeek AI tool a year ago sent shockwaves through US markets and Silicon Valley. But now Chinese AI tech is being used by more and more US companies. Our North America Technology Correspondent, Lily Jamali, tells us about it.

Also this week: shoppers in Denmark are using mobile phone apps to boycott some goods from overseas. And we road-test an exoskeleton taking the physical effort out of long outdoor walks.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: An image of a mobile phone displaying the DeepSeek name and logo on the screen. In the background are flags of China and the United States of America. Credit: Reuters.)

It's been a year since China's DeepSeek AI-chatbot shook the tech world.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

As DeepSeek shocked the world, we speak to an AI expert who worked at a Chinese AI firm. We hear about a new battery exchange system for EVs in Addis Ababa. And imagine a world without potholes - we've got a scientist on who is working on self-healing roads.

Get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or sending a Whatsapp to +44330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Photo: The logo of the Alibaba AI model Qwen, a blue triangle with Chinese characters beneath. Credit: Getty Images.)

As DeepSeek shocked the world, we speak to an AI expert who worked at a Chinese AI firm. And we hear about a new battery exchange system for EVs in Addis Ababa.

[LISTEN NOW]

We hear from inside China on the remarkably fast electric vehicle transition going on there, as the country moves away from petrol and diesel-powered cars and lorries. BBC Transport Correspondent Nick Marsh reports on the latest EV technology that's making Chinese brands popular and affordable.

Also on Tech Life this week, who has the fastest computer in the world ? And what is it used for ? An expert tells us everything we need to know about supercomputers. And we find out about a new piece of tech that can provide electricity, transport and clean drinking water in disaster zones - using solar power.

We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: A photo of an electric car charging in China. Credit: Master/Getty Images.

In China, electric cars accounted for almost half of all car sales last year.

[LISTEN NOW]

A class action lawsuit is underway in Italy against Meta and TikTok. Lawyers say they want to protect younger children from social media harm. We look at the issues.

Also in Tech Life this week, we have another story about social media. It's about farmers in Africa, so-called agri-influencers, and how they're cultivating an online movement. Shiona McCallum tests a new maritime AI communication system. And a Japanese tech company is trying to eradicate malaria using drones.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A child uses a smartphone. Credit: Getty Images)

Two big social media companies face a class action lawsuit in Italy.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Also, we look at the company saving billions of litres of drinking water around the world by detecting leaky pipes using clever tech. And we find out about the latest fast-paced video gaming technology for people who are blind or partially-sighted.

Tech Life looks at ways to connect people in our digital world

Tech Life looks at ways to connect people. We examine the mobile phone usage gap. What is it ? Can it be narrowed ? And how do you shop online if you have no official address?

With Amazon now in charge of James Bond, how will they use data to shape the franchise. We speak to a company which analyses scripts using AI and suggests actors or story changes. Plus, the computer scientist who got her native language on to Google Translate, and the Indian village which became a YouTube sensation.

We love hearing from you. Send us an email on techlife@BBC.co.uk or send a Whatsapp to +44330 1230 320.

Presented and produced by Imran Rahman-Jones. Our editor is Monica Soriano.

(Image: Daniel Craig in a black tuxedo and bow tie, looking down the barrel of the camera. Credit: Getty Images.)

[LISTEN NOW]

We speak to cyber security experts about how cyber warfare works – and how it stays out of the headlines. Then we hear about the aerodynamics tech making athletes more streamlined. And we meet the new Indiana Jones, gaming star Troy Baker.

Tell us about the new tech you've tried out in 2024. What gadgets or apps helped you out this year?

Send us an email to techlife@BBC.co.uk or Whatsapp us on +44 330 123 0320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A computer-generated, pixelated image of a globe with a neon blue padlock superimposed on top. Credit: Getty Images.)

Cyber warfare, aerodynamic tech in athletics and the new Indiana Jones.

Cyber warfare and what effect it has in the real world. Also, the tech making wheelchair racing more accessible. And we meet the star of the new Indiana Jones game.

[LISTEN NOW]

What happens when a company we trust with our most personal data gets into financial trouble ? We hear from a woman who trusted a US company with her genetic information.

Also on Tech Life this week, will there be enough electricity for the demands of artificial intelligence ? The International Energy Agency tells us about the challenges of powering the AI boom. And we find out how to grow an island in The Maldives. The tech involved could protect low-lying territories from erosion and rising sea levels.

We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: A scientist holds a DNA sample with the results on a computer screen in a laboratory. Credit: Westend61/Getty Images

Protecting your personal data when a company gets into financial difficulty.

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producers: Tom Quinn and Imran Rahman-Jones

(Image: A woman looking at her phone which has hearts coming out of it. Credit: Getty Images)

What is it like to have an AI boyfriend? The women in China who date chatbots.

What is it like to have an AI boyfriend? We hear about women in China who prefer to date a chatbot over a real person. And how tech can be used to increase crop yields.

Singapore is experiencing an increase in cyber threats, and its critical infrastructure was targeted in a cyber attack. We speak to the country's Commissioner of Cybersecurity.

Also in Tech Life this week: we hear the real voice of a fake spokesperson for a synthetic band. And presenter Zoe Kleinman has a mini tech adventure involving social media and a metal detectorist.

You can contact us by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320. Please include your name and where you live.

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: Hands are held over a computer keyboard as screens display computer data. Credit: Getty Images.

Find out how Singapore is now dealing with cyber threats from other states and criminals.

[LISTEN NOW]

Artificial intelligence can pick out the words we're typing from analysis of our brainwaves. Could it give a voice to those who can't speak because of brain injury or illness ? We interview an expert leading the research.

Also on this week's edition of Tech Life, will AI and 3D printing revolutionise the shoe business ? And the hot and cold solution to keep fish fresh in Kenya.

We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photo of a female volunteer typing words onto a keyboard while her brain is being scanned. Credit: Meta)

Could AI help people with speech loss talk by interpreting signals in their brain ?

[LISTEN NOW]

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/demaerre

We look at tech to fight deepfake AI-powered audio impersonators.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of a lab technician holding a blood sample. Credit: Jacob Wackerhausen/Getty Images)

The role machine learning can play in accurate blood tests for bowel cancer.

We look at a particular use of tech in family life - using trackers to know where your children are, or your partner, or other relatives. What are the safety and privacy issues ?

Also on Tech Life: Shiona McCallum speaks to the BBC's cyber correspondent, Joe Tidy, about a gang of Russian hackers known as Evil Corps. Who are they, and what have they done ? Joe is co-hosting a new podcast about them.

And a young engineer from Kenya has developed an app for deaf people, so they can read sign language on a screen while people speak to them in real-time. It's just earned him a prestigious award.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of a mother and teenage daughter at home, using a laptop and smartphone. Credit: Getty Images)

The issues around parents keeping an eye on their children using tracking technology.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

What are the advantages of creating a digital mirror of a city – or an entire island? We speak to a company making digital twins to create simulations of the real world. Then we hear from a real set of twins about their award-winning carbon capture project. And the company sending tiny satellites into space to help environmental researchers.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A graphic of a person's hand holding a mini city on its fingertips. Credit: Getty Images.)

One company tells us why it makes digital versions of the real world. A real set of twins explains their award-winning carbon capture project. And the tiny satellites in space.

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This week we're looking at artificial intelligence in the workplace - how are employers and employees using it ? An international survey provides some answers.

Also on Tech Life:

We bring you a technological solution to the problem of litter being left behind by climbers on Mount Everest.

Electric car manufacturers are rated on their human rights policies.

And find out how you can heat your home - with electric wallpaper.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An abstract futuristic representation of the letters 'AI'. Credit: Getty Images)

Contact us: Tech Life would love to hear your stories, ideas and views about the programme. You can email us at techlife@BBC.co.uk or contact us via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 0320.

A new survey looks at how AI is being adopted in the workplace.

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One of the world's biggest car manufacturers pulled the plug on its robotaxi project. So what next? We also ask the experts how AI will impact your job. And we're at the launch of a new music discovery tool, which uses a mix of AI and expert curation.

We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us on techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a voice note on Whatsapp at +44330 1230 320.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A Cruise car with cameras attached to its exterior at an intersection in San Francisco. Credit: Getty Images)

One of the world's biggest car makers pulled the plug on its robotaxis. So what next?

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Robot security dogs have been spotted at Mar-A-Lago, the Florida home of US president-elect Donald Trump. Who are behind them, and what security services do they offer? Also on the programme, we hear about one phone company's plan to waste phone scammers' time. And the startup using AI to provide loans to people without a credit history.

We love hearing from you on Tech Life. Get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or sending us a Whatsapp on +44330 1230 320.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A picture of a Boston Dynamics dog, “Spot ?. Credit: Reuters.)

Who's behind the robot dogs at Donald Trump's house? Plus: Wasting scammers' time.

We take a closer look at the robot dogs at Donald Trump's house. Plus, the company using AI to waste scammers' time. And the Zambian startup providing services to unbanked people.

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Autonomous taxis are already part of everyday life in some cities. What will it be like when self-driving car tech gets up to full speed ? And we find out how scientists are using quantum sensing technology to peer inside soldiers' brains on the firing range.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A Zoox robotaxi containing passengers is stationary on a road. The skyscrapers of San Francisco are in the background. Credit: Zoox, Inc.)

We are living through a self-driving vehicle transformation.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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We speak to the founder and CEO of Axon Enterprise, maker of the Taser, about the tech's future. And the future includes drones armed with Tasers.

Also in this edition of Tech Life: why an underwater glider is circumnavigating the globe, gathering data on the oceans. And find out why the quantum computing revolution could arrive sooner than expected.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A close-up photo of a Taser being aimed. Credit: Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)

The head of the company that makes Tasers tells us about the future of the technology.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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We chat to NVIDIA about AI chat and how to make it sound more human. Explore making and breaking an emotional connection with AI. And new tech is helping stroke survivors.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A digital screen shows an icon of a chatbot with text inviting users to ask it anything and a finger pressing on the screen. Credit: Getty Images)

We chat about a conversational AI that's almost human-like in its speech skills

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

(Image: A colourful illuminated digital screen shows an image of a chatbot. Written text invites users to ask it anything. A human finger is interacting with the bot by pressing on the screen. Credit: Getty Images)

[LISTEN NOW]

PHOTO: Zoe Kleinman at Goonhilly Earth Station. Credit: BBC.

We visit two centres developing deep space communications and rocket launches.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: Illustration of a submarine communications cable. Credit: Christoph Burgstedt/Getty)

Undersea fibre-optic cables help keep us online - but what happens when they break ?

(Picture: Inside IGS vertical farm)

The tech helping farmers bring food to our plates

From vertical farming to solar irrigation, Tech Life looks at tech helping farmers adapt to climate change

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/ER Productions Ltd

We look at two different areas of health tech, improving lives for women and children.

AI tech is giving people their lost voices back. We chat to Yvonne Johnson, who has motor neuron disease. She's lost much of her ability to speak. But artificial intelligence is helping Yvonne to be heard again, with her own voice.

Also this week: we discuss AI and the price of memory chips with a big computer manufacturer. And video gaming is booming in Africa.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of Yvonne Johnson. She is smiling directly at the camera. Credit: Portrait Of A Voice.)

Yvonne Johnson has motor neuron disease. AI is helping to return her lost voice.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

AI tech is giving people their lost voices back. We discuss AI and the price of memory chips with a big computer manufacturer. And video gaming is booming in Africa.

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A still photo of Lynn Thompson with the Liberty blood test device. Credit: BBC)

The machine that allows patients to take their own blood samples for analysis from home.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: Portrait photo of a beagle dog. Credit: Getty Images)

This edition of Tech Life is all about animals and tech.

Computer scientist Sasha Luccioni is a pioneering voice in AI, especially when it comes to its environmental impact. We speak to her as she is announced on the BBC 100 Women list.

We also meet one of the only AI startups in Bhutan, and the two friends who met online and have finally met in real life – after 13 years of knowing each other.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A black and white portrait photo of Sasha Luccioni smiling at the camera. In the background are orange computer-generated geometric shapes. Credit: Steve Gerrard.)

Tech Life meets leading AI scientist Sasha Luccioni, one of the BBC's 100 Women 2024.

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We discuss how AI could help health professionals work better, detect diseases earlier and even change the way people around the world look after themselves.

Also this week: Shiona McCallum interviews a businesswoman who is trying to make female health tech more accessible and affordable. And we have a good news story that originated on the darker side of the internet.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of a female doctor sitting at a desk in a hospital lab. She is using AI technology on a laptop computer. Credit: Getty Images)

Artificial intelligence is already in use in many areas of healthcare.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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Planet Earth's oceans remain relatively unexplored. Now one company has a bold plan to build habitats for humans to live and work underwater for long spells of time. We hear about the tech challenges of life on the seabed.

Also on Tech Life, we speak to a Californian TikTok content creator, and a company benefiting from being on TikTok, as the future of the video-sharing platform in the United States remains uncertain. And who needs big crowds and long queues ? Is the future of gaming expos virtual ?

We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An illustration of an underwater human habitat known as a Sentinel. Credit: Deep.)

Plans are underway for humans to live and work in underwater habitats for long durations

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An image of Atlas, the Boston Dynamics robot. Credit: Kiyoshi Ota/Bloomberg via Getty Images, and Tomohiro Ohsumi/Getty Images)

Behind some OnlyFans models making money from chatting to paying subscribers is the unseen human labour people who pretend to be the models and chat on their behalf. We speak to a woman in the Philippines about her jobs as a “chatter'.

Also on the programme, scientists using AI to help advance their research. And the White House has been cutting real footage from the war with Iran with clips from video games. We analyse their strategy.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

We speak to a chatter on OnlyFans, who sends explicit messages on behalf of models.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

We speak to an OnlyFans “chatter ?, who sends explicit messages on behalf of models. Also: how AI helps scientists, and the White House's use of video games in its posts on war.

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Microplastics in our seas and drinking water is a real problem. Two teenage students from Texas have found an innovative way to get rid of the stuff using ultrasound. If you have not heard about the Global Digital Compact, we speak to someone who says you need to know about it.

And a traditional Indian instrument gets an electronic makeover.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: Musician Peter Gabriel performing in New York. Credit: Theo Wargo/Getty Images)

Music legend Peter Gabriel talks about AI technology and communicating with animals.

Tech Life created a fake podcast using a new AI tool from Google Labs, and we spoke to the head of the tool, Steven Johnson. Don't worry – this programme is still brought to you by real human beings!

We also look into how deepfakes have been used in the US. Plus – have we unveiled the real inventor of Bitcoin? (Spoiler – no.)

We love hearing from you. Email us on techlife@BBC.co.uk or send a WhatsApp on +44 330 123 0320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An AI-generated head with letters coming out of its mouth. Credit: Getty Images.)

Tech Life creates a fake podcast using an AI tool from Google. Plus, political deepfakes.

Tech Life creates a fake podcast using a new AI tool from Google Labs. We also look into deepfakes in the US election - and have we found the inventor of Bitcoin? (Spoiler: No.)

[LISTEN NOW]

Tech Life looks at satellite navigation and the increase in cases of signal interference. How could this affect shipping and aviation safety, and what can be done about it ?

Also in this edition, what digital material of cultural significance should be stored for the future ? A volunteer project is improving Wikipedia's photographs. And we find out about efforts to harness the power of the moon on the Faroe Islands.

Tell us about the one bit of tech you use in your life everyday – get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An image of a Galileo navigation satellite. Credit: BBC)

UN agencies are worried about rising cases of satellite navigation signal interference.

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This week we're talking about connectivity. How to keep the internet running when international data cables are damaged by earthquakes or war. And are light beams a solution ?

Also this week: Satellites and AI are being used to count migrating wildebeest in Africa. We hear how tech is challenging long-standing estimates of animal numbers.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of many fibre optic cables emitting bright light against a dark background. Credit: Getty Images)

Find out about the networks of cables that keep the internet fast and functioning.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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A company called Vast hopes to put Haven-1 into orbit in 2026. If successful, it'll be the world's first commercial space station. We speak to the company's CEO, Max Haot.

Also on Tech Life this week: find out about robots in Japan that will help people cope with dementia. And the local language avatar providing growing tips to farmers in Africa.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A future illustration of the commercial space station Haven-1 in orbit above Planet Earth. It is docked with a Dragon spacecraft. Credit: Vast.)

US firm Vast wants Haven-1 to be the world's first commercial space station in orbit.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

What is it like to live with a computer chip in your brain ? Noland Arbaugh became the first person to receive a device from Elon Musk's neurotechnology firm, Neuralink. Noland tells the BBC about his operation to implant the chip, how he can control a computer with his thoughts, and how it has improved his life.

Also on Tech Life this week, we explore a crypto solution to an electricity problem in rural Zambia, and look at one attempt to tackle the tricky subject of copyright and AI.

Tell us about the one bit of tech you use in your life everyday – get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photograph of Noland Arbaugh attending a sporting event. Credit: Noland Arbaugh)

Noland Arbaugh has a chip in his brain to translate his thoughts into computer commands.

[LISTEN NOW]

We look at how tech and visas have freed some employees from their desktops, allowing them to continue their work from other parts of the world. They're called digital nomads.

Also in this edition: Shiona McCallum speaks to a victim of online bullying in Kenya, and finds out about a charity trying to help. And tech startups in Finland are turning to Slush.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of a laptop near a swimming pool on a sunny day. Credit: Getty Images)

Who are digital nomads, and why are more countries welcoming them ?

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

(Photo: A pile of mobile phones. Credit: Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)

We look at some of the reasons you choose your mobile phone handset

It sounds like a Hollywood movie - bringing extinct animals like the dodo back to life - but a company has attracted hundreds of millions of dollars of investment to do just that. We hear the arguments for and against de-extinction technology.

Also, losing the alcohol but keeping the taste, our reporter takes a sober dive into the tech behind alcohol-free beer.

We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An illustration of a dodo bird. Credit: DeAgostini Picture Library/Getty Images)

How one company is trying to bring extinct animals like the dodo back to life

How one company is attracting hundreds of millions of dollars of investment to bring extinct animals like the dodo back to life.

Also on Tech Life this week - losing the alcohol but keeping the taste....our reporter takes a sober dive into the tech behind alcohol-free beer.

We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Tech Life takes a close look at the controversial process of de-extinction.

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Alasdair Keane

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An online map is displayed on a laptop screen. Credit: AndreyPopov/Getty Images)

How live updating of online maps is helping humanitarian work around the world.

[LISTEN NOW]

The top internet trends for 2023.

An exclusive interview with Bill Ready, boss of social media platform Pinterest. Plus – what is actually stolen in a cyber-attack, the end of dial-up and are AI pets the future?

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

(Image: A phone with the red Pinterest logo on it. Credit: Getty Images)

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A photo of a computer taken in 1982. Credit: BBC)

How will the internet, and other tech we use today, evolve in the future ?

This week we're learning about patents - what they are, and who wants one. And by analysing the global demand for patents, we can see future trends in tech.

Also in this edition of Tech Life, what are doctors and patients around the world saying about the use of artificial intelligence in hospitals ? And we'll be finding out about Google's latest injection of AI into online search.

We enjoy reading the messages being sent in about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photo of a woman with a lightbulb sticker on her forehead, indicating she's had an idea. Credit: Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)

You've had a 'lightbulb moment' and invented something amazing. Now you need a patent.

[LISTEN NOW]

Climate change is making devastating extreme weather more common. Tech Life's Yasmin Morgan-Griffiths explores the science that could help communities take polluters to court.

Also this week: we look at whether the boom in AI is causing a boom in electronic waste. And as astronauts head back to the Moon, we meet a veteran NASA space robot that's on a mission to return home.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: Smoke billows from a chimney at a coal-fired power station in Eastern Europe. The light of the sun is obscured by the dense dark smoke clouds. Credit: Reuters)

Attribution science is becoming an increasingly important tool in climate lawsuits.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Quantum computing promises revolutionary new discoveries. But tech revolutions can be messy. Is now the time to start thinking about how we ethically use quantum machines?

Also, we find out how glass can be turned into useful data storage that will last for thousands of years. And what can science fiction tell us about our spacefaring future?

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

[LISTEN NOW]

We step inside a quantum computer lab to answer your questions about technology that promises to revolutionise everything from particle physics to fertiliser production.

Also this week on Tech Life: lots of us upload and download large quantities of data, and the expectation is that the demand for data will only increase in the future. How will our current networks cope ? The solution travels at the speed of light.

And how do you teach AI to speak in different accents ? We find out.

We enjoy reading your messages about Tech Life. Please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320. Please include your name and where you live.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: The word 'Quantum' is illuminated on a circuit board. Credit: Wong Yu Liang/Getty Images

We take a deep dive into quantum computers, with experts answering listeners' questions.

[LISTEN NOW]

More than 200 prominent individuals and 70 organisations want international agreement on 'do not cross' red lines for artificial intelligence, to prevent risks to humanity. We speak to Stuart Russell, professor of computer science at the University of California in Berkeley, who is backing the call. He spells out some of the potential risks that AI could pose to us all, and says global agreement on AI red lines is the solution.

Also on Tech Life this week: We look at how artificial intelligence is having an impact on the legal profession. In Ghana, holograms are helping to spread breast cancer health advice. And Shiona McCallum speaks to a young tech Youtuber in Dubai.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: An illustration of AI letters against a red backdrop. Credit: Wong Yu Liang/Getty Images)

There are calls for AI to be prevented from carrying out actions which might harm humans.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/Editorial12

The device that can save lives in water and bring comfort to relatives.

A fleet of small robotic sailboats, packed with sensors, are ready to sail into the path of storms, to gather data on developing hurricanes. We find out how they'll do it. The data will help experts predict where a hurricane might reach land, giving people time to prepare and evacuate.

Also on Tech Life this week: we're at Europe's biggest tech show to find out what the next big thing might be. We speak to a Tech Life listener in Zambia who is teaching children about robotics and coding. And rented batteries, charged with solar energy, could offer a clean energy alternative in Africa.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of a small robotic C-Star sailboat developed by British company Oshen. Credit: Oshen)

Robot sailboats are helping forecasters predict where hurricanes will hit land.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

We dig through the evidence on the effect of screen time on babies and young children, with the help of some parents and experts. And after hearing our story of a woman who got her voice back with the help of AI, a listener got in touch to tell us his own moving story of hearing his father's voice for the first time in 50 years.

Producers: Imran Rahman-Jones and Vuyelo Ndlovu

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

(Image: A baby holds a smartphone, looking at the screen while lying in bed. Credit: Getty Images.)

The effect of screen time on young children. Plus a listener tells us his AI voice story.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

How does screen time affect our development from an early age? We check the evidence. And a listener gets in touch to tell us his personal story of AI voice tools.

[LISTEN NOW]

Photo: Competition finalists, Lisbon, November 2023.

We meet innovators from around the world hoping to bring you new technologies.

Does AI have a role in education? Some private schools in the United States are swapping traditional teacher-led classroom lessons for laptops and personalised apps. We speak to pupils and the co-founder of the school network embracing AI-assisted learning.

Also in this edition: We're lifting the lid on online scams around the world. Hear how one woman was conned out of a large sum of money, and an expert tells us what we should be wary of online.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: Rear view of a large group of high school students in a computer lab. They have laptops on their desks. Credit: Getty Images)

Some children in the United States are learning with help from AI-powered apps at school.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Also this week, don't you just hate it when stuff doesn't work? Are internet and social media outages becoming more frequent ?

A doctor in Argentina has created a video game to help calm the nerves of children facing a hospital operation.

And what weighs three tonnes and is the size of a mini-van ? It's the world's largest digital camera.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A NASA illustration of space debris around Earth. Credit: Nasa/Getty)

What is it, and what risk does it pose to the technologies we rely on in everyday life ?

PHOTO CREDIT: Arturo Béjar

A former Meta security expert speaks out about teenagers and harassment on Instagram.

This week on Tech Life, we ask why online banking and payment outages happen, and find out what you can do to protect your data and money.

The first Saudi Arabian woman to run an international body speaks to us about her life in tech, and her role in charge of the Digital Co-operation Organisation.

And if you had to spend a long time on the Moon or Mars, what kind of base would you want to live in ?

We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A woman's hand holds a mobile phone. A login window for online banking is on the screen. Credit: Torsten Asmus/Getty Images)

Why do online banking systems sometimes go offline, leaving you with no access to cash ?

[LISTEN NOW]

We explore ways e-waste is being tackled in Kenya and Norway

Tech Life looks at the problem of electronic waste and finds out how digital step trackers are helping bring access to water in India.

This week on Tech Life, we're looking at the problems caused by illegal gold mining in Ghana. We'll hear how drones, AI and GPS trackers are being used to tackle the trade.

Also this week, Meta goes to court as it battles ads for so-called Nudifying apps. Is 'I don't know' the solution to AI chatbot hallucinations ? And the pay-as-you-cook stove that's winning awards and improving health in Africa.

We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: A photo of two gold miners in Ghana. Credit: Christian Thompson/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock

Illegal mining is a big problem in Ghana. Now tech is being used to combat it.

[LISTEN NOW]

Image: Paris 2024 Olympic Games logo is displayed near the Eiffel Tower (Photo by Chesnot/Getty Images)

The Olympics turn to AI to try crack down on online abuse aimed at athletes

With the Paris Olympics around the corner, organisers are turning to an AI platform to track online abuse aimed at athletes competing in the games

Do dolphins have their own language ? And could we 'speak' to them ? An AI large language model from Google, called DolphinGemma, is helping experts study dolphin communication. We interview Doctor Denise Herzing, the Research Director and founder of the Wild Dolphin Project, about her work and how it might bring benefits for humans and dolphins.

Also in this edition, we find out how tech is changing the way NFL fans watch football games, and mega-batteries are helping to keep the lights on.

Tell us about the one item of tech that you simply can't do without – please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photograph of Atlantic spotted dolphins. Credit: Google)

Artificial intelligence is being used to unlock the mysteries of dolphin communication.

[LISTEN NOW]

We test the AI tech that offers live language translation on the telephone. India bans online money games. And AI in the workplace - a global study looks at who uses it, and why.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of a young woman speaking into a smartphone. Credit: pocketlight/Getty Images)

Find out how AI is making phone calls possible between people who don't share a language.

[LISTEN NOW]

A special from Edinburgh, where art and performance meet tech with spectacular results. Including a magician with robot assistants, an AI improv group and an electrifying dance act.

Every August, Edinburgh becomes the centre of the arts world, with half a million visitors and thousands of acts descending on the Scottish capital. Among these are performers using some pioneering tech, asking questions about the role of AI in our lives and even a choreographer stimulating his dancers' muscles with electricity.

Tell us about your own mini-adventure with tech by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or sending us a Whatsapp voice note to +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter and producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A man in a white shirt a grey waistcoat, on stage with a humanoid robot head. Credit: Getty Images)

[LISTEN NOW]

Presented by Zoe Kleinman

Produced by Tom Quinn and Imran Rahman-Jones

Edited by Monica Soriano

(Image: A male swimmer wearing goggles and a black swimming cap emerges out of the water. Credit: Getty Images)

How do athletes use technology to improve their performance?

We're looking at how athletes use tech to improve their performance. We follow the quest to bring mountain biking to the Paralympics. Plus, how AI could change Africa's future.

((PIC CREDIT: Presenter Shiona McCallum meets trader Lydia in Nairobi's famous Maasai market)

We meet the people and see the tech changing lives across Kenya and Africa

We visit an agri-tech hackathon to hear ideas for reducing crop loss across Africa, meet market traders who've switched to mobile money, and get on board Nairobi's first e bus.

(Photo: Shiona McCallum tries the AI Pin at MWC in Barcelona. Credit: BBC)

We visit a big mobile phone industry event in Spain

(Photo: Sphere logo. Credit: Greg Doherty/Getty Images)

The latest innovations and devices at CES - one of the biggest consumer tech trade shows

The latest innovations and devices at CES - one of the biggest consumer tech trade shows in the world. Alasdair Keane reports.

Want to know what's in store for the tech world in 2025? Tech Life has got you covered. From AI to cybersecurity, gaming and crypto and beyond, we bring you our predictions for the next 12 months. And we're not alone. We're calling on the help of friends of the show and experts around the world – with some familiar voices for regular Tech Life listeners.

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Alasdair Keane

(Picture: Spot the robot at a decommissioned nuclear plant /BBC)

How a robot named Spot is helping humans in radioactive places

Tech Life visits one of the most hazardous places for humans, a former radioactive nuclear plant, with the help of a robot called Spot.

A selection of our favourite stories in 2025. From bringing back extinct species to AI at a royal palace. And you tell us about the tech that's made a difference to your life.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producers: Tom Quinn and Imran Rahman-Jones

(Image: A young woman sits at a desk. A laptop computer is open on the desk. The number 2025 is projected in front of her, and she points to it with her index finger. Credit: Getty Images)

We bring you Tech Life highlights from a fascinating year in global tech.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

From the innovations that flourished to those that flopped, from providing virtual boyfriends to taking very real jobs, we look back an another fascinating twelve months in tech – and hear from reporters, experts and listeners about which tech most changed your lives in 2024.

(Image: a montage of text message like speech boxes on a background of what looks like code. Copyright: Getty Images).

We look back at the high and lows of another fascinating twelve months in tech

It's been another intriguing twelve months in tech. Which innovations flourished - and which flopped? And most importantly how did they affect the lives we all lead?

[LISTEN NOW]

Photo Credit: Getty Images/Ketut Agus Suardika

BBC reporters around the world predict the top tech trends for the year ahead.

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A hand loads a floppy disc into a disc drive. Credit: Stockbyte/Getty Images)

We look at old tech that's been around for decades and is still useful.

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/Westend61

Can tech help our mental health ? We explore the issues.

How does a company make profit in the charity fundraising space? We speak to Tim Cadogan, CEO of online fundraising platform GoFundMe.

We hear about the solar-powered boats being used by indigenous communities in the Amazon.

And, it is 30 years of the infamous Comic Sans font.

We love hearing from you. Get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp on +44330 123 0320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Researcher: Laura Cress

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Photo: Electricity pylons. Credit: Igor Borisenko/Getty Images)

How much energy could the tech behind artificial intelligence use in the future?

We hear from a former moderator in Kenya who was left traumatised by his previous job. And we ask what video games could do to be more accessible to blind people. Plus – the radar tech used to help with online mapping.

Warning: This episode includes a description of child sexual abuse.

We love hearing from you on Tech Life. You can email us at techlife@BBC.co.uk or Whatsapp us on +44330 1230 320.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A man in glasses looking at a screen, with writing digitally imposed in front of his face. Credit: Getty Images.)

[LISTEN NOW]

Twitch streamer QTCinderella talks about the unwelcome attention she receives in real life. Shiona McCallum reports on robotics for offshore wind farms. And polar rover tech.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of Twitch streamer QTCinderella attending TwitchCon 2024 in San Diego, USA. She is standing in front of a TwitchCon backdrop and logo. She is smiling at the camera. Credit: Getty Images.)

A popular streamer tells us about the downsides of making online content.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

This week we're looking at a growing digital industry which allows people to interact - in a way - with the likeness or the voice of someone they care about who has passed away. It's not science fiction, and it does involve AI chatbots.

Also on Tech Life this week, we'll be finding out about two tech solutions to the problem of food which goes to waste. Tech Life's Alasdair Keane explores the challenge of making a Formula 1 racing car more eco friendly. And what is digital art ?

We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: An illustration of a human hand reaching toward the unknown. Science fiction becoming reality. Credit: Yana Iskayeva/Getty Images

Using AI chatbots to recreate the voice or likeness of a loved one who has passed away.

[LISTEN NOW]

Live trials are under way in Ghana of holoportation 3D telemedicine tech. It allows a patient in a remote location to connect to a doctor many miles away, and be examined. We speak to the lead engineer involved in the project, as well as a patient and a doctor benefiting from the portable kit.

Also on Tech Life, what happens when a country's leader decides the names of some places (or stretches of water) are about to change ? Do online maps update ? How is it decided ? Our reporter has been searching for the answers.

And what is it like working as a technology correspondent, reporting on the busy and ever-changing North America tech scene ? We chat to Lily Jamali who does exactly that for the BBC.

We are always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: Image of a female doctor communicating with a patient on a portable video link. Credit: Hiraman/Getty Images)

Find out how holoportation 3D telemedicine technology is helping patients in Ghana.

[LISTEN NOW]

Intel was once unrivalled as the world's chip maker. Now it has fallen behind its rivals. We hear why the company is struggling ahead of its latest earnings call this week. Also, the many uses of drones around the world. And the surprising tech behind indoor golf.

We love hearing from you - and if you're a regular listener you'll know by now that you can contact us via email on techlife@BBC.co.uk. Or, send us a message or voice note on WhatsApp. Our number is +44 330 123 0320.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Tom Quinn, Imran Rahman-Jones, Alasdair Keane

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A close up of a computer chip. Credit: Getty Images)

Intel was once unrivalled as the world's chip maker. Now it's fallen behind its rivals.

Intel was once unrivalled as the world's chip maker. Now it's fallen behind its rivals. We hear why the company is struggling. Also - the many uses of drones around the world.

[LISTEN NOW]

The way the internet will operate in the future is being discussed at the moment. Will it remain as it is now, or could governments become more involved and take more control ? We speak to ICANN, one of the technical institutions which help to keep the internet functioning, about their concerns.

Also this week: the man behind one of the most popular websites in the world talks to Tech Life. And we hear from the award-winning teenage inventor of a toxic dust detector.

We enjoy reading your messages about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

You can use the same contact details to send us any questions you've ever wanted to have answered about quantum computers. We're hoping to gather up your questions and ask an expert about quantum computing in a future episode.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: An illustration of a woman holding a tablet device connected to the internet. Credit: Suwanmanee99/Getty Images

Key decisions will be made this year about how the internet will operate in the future.

[LISTEN NOW]

An international study looks at the online experiences of young people from marginalised groups, including sex workers, gay and transgender people, and people living with HIV. It concludes they are facing a surge in online abuse. We speak to Phong from Vietnam about his experience, then hear about the study from the lead researcher.

Also on Tech Life this week, find out how a drone company in Ghana has benefited from US foreign aid cuts. And how could catching the bus help improve your posture ?

We enjoy reading the messages being sent in about the one item of tech you simply can't do without. If you want to tell us about your must-have piece of tech, please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photo of a woman who has received online abuse. Credit: OcusFocus/Getty Images)

Young people from marginalised groups tell of the online abuse they receive.

[LISTEN NOW]

Seven pioneers of artificial intelligence gathered at St James's Palace to receive the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering, presented by King Charles. Zoe Kleinman was there. In this week's edition you can hear Zoe talk to the 'godmother' of AI, Professor Fei-Fei Li, and Jensen Huang, the head of the world's most valuable company, Nvidia.

Also on Tech Life this week: how useful can robots be in space ? And the racing cars revving up in Abu Dhabi without any drivers onboard.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A photo of King Charles at the prize ceremony in London. Credit: Reuters)

We visit a royal palace to meet some of the pioneers of artificial intelligence.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An illustration of a woolly mammoth. Credit: Leonello Calvetti/Science Photo Library/Getty Images)

Tech can play a role in combating the illegal trade in elephant ivory.

Does the tech you use depend too much on a few critical minerals ? When a hurricane temporarily disrupted mining in the small town of Spruce Pine, the tech world was concerned. We find out why the location, in North Carolina, USA, is so important, and discover where a range of rare manufacturing materials can be found across the globe. Are they critical links in a supply chain that can be broken by natural disasters or political decisions ?

Also on Tech Life this week:

An AI tool designed to protect athletes from online abuse during the Olympics - how well did it perform ? And what tech does an explorer take into the jungle ?

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An image of a human hand holding pure quartz crystals. Credit: Getty Images)

A hurricane disrupted mining in a small US town, and the tech world looked on with alarm.

[LISTEN NOW]

The summer Olympics have come to a close in Paris, so we speak to the man behind the huge television operation there, using new tech to deliver the action to you - from almost every possible angle.

From China to Mexico - how online shopping is changing the economics of restaurant food deliveries in a mega city.

And what does it take to keep Wikipedia up-to-date ? We find out.

Presenter: Alasdair Keane

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: A competitor takes part in a motorsport event during Olympic esports week in Singapore, 2023. Credit: Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)

The IOC announced the inaugural games will be hosted by Saudi Arabia. Not all are happy

The International Olympic Committee has announced that the inaugural Olympic esports games will be hosted in Saudi Arabia next year. Not all are happy.

Can we trust AI? Its answers are not always correct. And it only knows what it's been trained on, so some of its responses can contain bias. Tech experts offer us some solutions.

Also this week: digital twinning is helping the restoration of a three hundred year old palace. And the joy of mundane video gaming!

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A person is typing on a laptop computer. Digital icons for AI, ticks (checkmarks) and warning signs float above the keyboard. Credit: Getty Images)

Is there a way to fix AI's problem with trust?

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

[LISTEN NOW]

We're all about AI today. As AI-generated music tops US charts, a musician explains how he uses AI in the songwriting process. A fashion house explains how they use it to help sizing issues. And with the festive season approaching, there is a warning over its use in children's toys.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Studio manager: Nolwenn Movallali

(Image: Manon Dave wearing a baseball cap, a white T-shirt and jeans, sitting on a stage wearing a head mic. He is gesturing with his hands mid-sentence. Credit: Getty Images.)

How AI is used in songwriting and fashion. Plus, a warning on how it's used in toys.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

We're all about AI today. A musician explains how he uses AI in songwriting. A fashion house explains how it uses AI to help sizing issues. And a warning over its use in toys.

[LISTEN NOW]

Also on Tech Life this week:

A device invented by Canadian university students is shaking up the milk business for small-scale dairy farmers in Africa. And an engineer tells us his robust plan to make tech easier to fix.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: An actress records her voice into a microphone. Credit: Andrey Popov/Getty Images)

Two voice actors take legal action claiming their voices were stolen and cloned using AI.

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/Traitov

Who is downloading the cyber-security tool that can disguise where you are in the world ?

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

(Picture: a video call taking place on line Getty/Mayur Kakade)

Tech Life previews Microsoft copilot, the AI capabilities coming to Office apps

As Microsoft prepares to rollout its generative AI assistant, we've been to try it out explore the benefits and challenges

Women in a forest in India found they were being followed and recorded by cameras which were meant to be for monitoring tigers and other wildlife. We speak to the researcher who interviewed hundreds of women in the community. We learn about how online shopping tries to influence your behaviour. And we visit an Arctic island which is turning to renewables.

We want to know about the big tech stories of 2024 where you are. Get in touch with us by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or Whatsapp us on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Alasdair Keane

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A tiger among green foliage looking at the camera. Credit: Getty Images.)

Tiger tracking cameras have been misused to take videos of women in a forest in India.

A researcher found tiger tracking cameras tracked women who use a forest as a sanctuary. We learn about the dark side of online shopping. And how an Arctic island is going green.

[LISTEN NOW]

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: The TikTok logo on a mobile phone screen. Credit: Chesnot/Getty Images)

TikTok is a popular video sharing platform, but not so popular with some governments.

(Photo: A giraffe eating leaves from high branches. Credit: Michael B. Brown/Giraffe Conservation Foundation)

In this edition we discuss ways of checking facts on social media. This is after Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg announced Facebook and Instagram will change the way facts are checked.

Also in Tech Life, data is being saved for the future, deep underground in the Arctic Circle. Our reporter Adrienne Murray visits the Arctic World Archive in Svalbard. LinkedIn tell us how they are verifying their users are real. And find out why online mapping has become more than getting from A to B.

We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp at +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Imran Rahman-Jones

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A photo image of Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg. Credit: Getty Images)

This edition is all about facts, the future and finding our way.

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Presented and produced by Alasdair Keane.

Produced by Imran Rahman-Jones.

Edited by Monica Soriano.

Image: An orange Formula E car on the racetrack in London. Credit: Getty Images.

We're at the Formula E season finale, exploring how the tech has advanced over 10 years.

Alasdair Keane is at the season finale of the Formula E, looking at how the tech has advanced over 10 years. Plus, we go behind the scenes of a world-record-breaking AI event.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producers: Imran Rahman-Jones and Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Photo: A red paper cut-out of a heart shape, torn in the middle, resting on a computer keyboard. Credit: Pla2na/Getty Images)

We speak to the BBC journalist who exposed an online con.

In this edition we're trying to find out why some popular security and privacy services - known as VPNs - are disappearing from app stores in India.

Also on this week's Tech Life, we speak to the team behind a super-lightweight plane, powered by the sun's rays, that could be used like a steerable satellite.

And does talk of artificial intelligence make you worried about your job, or make you wonder what the future might hold ? Don't worry, it's not all gloom ! We hear from a historian who is taking a very long view of AI.

We're always keen to hear from you. You can email us: techlife@BBC.co.uk, or send us a text message or voice note on Whatsapp: +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An illustration of Internet access via a VPN. A shield with the inscription VPN and a globe. Credit: Getty Images)

The mystery of the security and privacy apps disappearing from app stores in India.

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We look at the impact data-scraping robots from AI firms are having on the online encyclopedia used by hundreds of millions of people.

Also in this edition of Tech Life: if you work in the fashion industry, if you are a fashion model, are you worried about AI ? A lot are, and we find out why.

And how do we prevent children from seeing online adult content ? Many parts of the world are requiring sites to verify the ages of their users. Now the biggest adult site argues that we need a better system.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo illustration of the Wikipedia logo displayed on a smartphone screen. Credit: Getty Images)

Bots are driving down human traffic at the world's largest online encyclopedia.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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A groundbreaking space mission will help scientists peer through dense jungle canopy to measure the difference the world's forests are making to climate change. We interview the expert who came up with the idea.

Also on Tech Life: It's clicked billions of times a day, but do you know how it started in the first place ? We find out why the world gave a big thumbs up to the 'like' button. And digitising agriculture in Ghana - how tech is streamlining the growing and selling process for thousands of farmers.

Tell us about the one item of tech that you simply can't do without – please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An illustration of the Biomass satellite in space. Credit: ESA/ATG medialab)

The space mission to better understand how forests affect climate change on Earth.

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China's DeepSeek took the AI world by storm this year. Where is it now? Plus the AI doomsday scenario capturing the imagination of the tech world. How seriously should we take it? And the future of driving with Volvo's tech lead.

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A hand holding a phone with the blue and white Deepseek whale logo on it. In the background is the red flag of China. Credit: Getty Images)

China's DeepSeek took the AI world by storm this year. Where is it now? And: AI doomsday?

China's DeepSeek took the AI world by storm this year. Where is it now? Plus the AI doomsday scenario shaking the tech world. And the future of driving with Volvo's tech lead.

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For months, we have been hearing from people all over the world who say they have been unfairly banned from their Facebook and Instagram accounts. Meta has, so far, said nothing publicly about what's going on. Plus, we chart the rise and fall of an American tech giant, and the author of Empire of AI, Karen Hao, tells us what she thinks the industry gets wrong.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An illustration of a mobile phone with barbed wire surrounding it. Credit: Getty Images)

We hear from people who say they have been unfairly banned from Facebook and Instagram.

We hear from people who say they have been unfairly banned from Facebook and Instagram. Plus, the rise and fall of Intel, and we meet the author of Empire of AI.

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For our first episode of 2026, Tech Life looks forward to the rest of the year, and beyond. What are the latest consumer gadgets on display at a huge electronics trade show in Las Vegas ? How will assistive technology, designed to help people with disabilities, change this year ? What should we be looking out for in the world of gaming ? And we ask a futurologist to predict how tech will help us buy things from retailers over the next decade.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producers: Tom Quinn & Imran Rahman-Jones

(Image: A computer-generated image of a circuit board, with “2026 ? shown in neon numbers in the centre. Credit: Getty Images)

The latest gadgets, the future in assistive tech and upcoming gaming releases in 2026.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

Tech Life previews 2026, from the latest gadgets on show in Las Vegas to new developments in assistive tech, and the biggest gaming releases of the year.

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Luckily much of what we see on social media is safe. But somewhere, somebody has to watch all the horrific content uploaded online in order to filter it out for the general public. We speak to a former moderator who worked on Meta platforms in Ghana. Plus, the community project in Puerto Rico with an innovative way of keeping its power on. And we say goodbye to video call program Skype.

(Warning – this episode includes some distressing content and a reference to suicide.)

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: A blurred out picture with a graphic of an eye and the text imprinted on it: 'Sensitive content'. Credit: Getty Images.)

One man describes his job as a moderator in Ghana. And we say goodbye to Skype.

We speak to a former moderator who worked on Meta platforms in Ghana. Plus, the community project in Puerto Rico with an innovative power system. And we say goodbye to Skype.

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We all want to stay fit and healthy. But how can technology help ? Shiona McCallum discusses new health tech on display at the world's biggest consumer electronics trade show. And if you own cryptocurrency - beware. Thieves could be targeting you. The BBC's Cyber Correspondent, Joe Tidy, joins us to explain more.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of Shiona McCallum wearing an LED face mask. The room is dark and the transparent face mask covers Shiona's face. The light emitting from the mask gives Shiona's face a red glow. Credit: BBC.)

Tech Life presenter Shiona McCallum looks for new health tech innovations.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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Also on Tech Life:

Old unwanted fishing nets are a real issue, for marine life and us here on dry land. One man has come up with a way of turning an environmental problem into useful 3D printed products.

And, we can see the sea. We can see the sky. But wouldn't it be great if we could see the wind as well? Well now we can!

Presenter: Graham Fraser

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: Smoke plumes billow from a fire at a lumber warehouse in southern Khartoum, Sudan, amidst ongoing fighting on June 7, 2023. Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

What happens to a country's tech scene when violent conflict erupts ?

Presenter: Zoe Kleinman

Producer: Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

How close are we to humanoid robots in the home? A flurry of new robots, designed to look like us, have been revealed recently, with many in Silicon Valley excited that this is the next big leap in AI. But many humanoid robots still struggle with the basics, such as picking up a glass or watering a plant. The BBC's cyber correspondent Joe Tidy meets some of these robots and asks: Will we really let them into our homes in the next few years?

Presenter: Chris Vallance and Joe Tidy

Producers: Tom Quinn and Imran Rahman-Jones

(Photo: Joe Tidy looks at a white humanoid robot wearing a red baseball cap, looking back at him, inside a domestic kitchen setting)

Meet the humanoid robots designed to help with household chores

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

Meet the humanoid robots designed to help with household chores. Will we really let them into our homes in the next few years?

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It's the ongoing question about AI – will it replace jobs or create new ones? We look at the argument from the point of view of call centre workers in the Philippines. Also on the programme, how Google Maps is tracking the changes in the built environment around the world. Plus – the small European city home to some of the most important music tech in the world.

Get in touch with Tech Life by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or sending us a Whatsapp on +44 330 1230 320.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producers: Tom Quinn and Imran Rahman-Jones

Editor: Monica Soriano

(Image: An animation of a robot wearing a headset and microphone. Credit: Getty Images)

We speak to the man who says AI will create call centre jobs - rather than replace them.

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Is this the year when smart glasses become mainstream? Whether you need spectacles for your vision, or wear sunglasses, tech firms are hoping you'll buy their latest devices. Tech Life's Alasdair Keane has road tested some of the latest wearables on the market.

From smart glasses to smart bricks! It's been a childhood favourite for decades, and now Lego is packing its colourful plastic with lights, sensors and sound synthesisers. Shiona McCallum plays with the new tech.

And we hear from a Hong Kong tech company that's developing AI for neglected languages, starting with Cantonese.

Presenter: Shiona McCallum

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Image: A photo of Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta. He is wearing dark-rimmed smart glasses. Credit: Reuters.)

The smart glasses market is growing, with more choice of wearable devices.

How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays

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Also on Tech Life this week:

We find out three things you should know about quantum mechanics. Why is it more difficult for big trucks to make the move from fossil fuels to cleaner electric power ? And AI in construction tech - we speak to the founder of a company harnessing artificial intelligence to help make sense of huge amounts of building industry paperwork.

Presenter: Alasdair Keane

Producer: Tom Quinn

(Photo: The Brazilian flag is seen behind a phone screen displaying the X logo in this illustration photo. Credit: NurPhoto/Getty Images)

What do social media users do when their preferred platform is banned ?

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Imagine a world in which AI servants are at your beck and call. They work for you, shop for you, book your travel and help organise your family life. It's called Agentic AI. And it's coming. A senior figure at Amazon tells us how they see AI agents changing our lives.

Also this week on Tech Life: Kenya's plastic waste problem is being turned into a 3D-printed teaching solution. And a charity is helping to save animals from extinction by freezing their cells.

We enjoy reading your messages about tech and Tech Life. Please get in touch by emailing techlife@BBC.co.uk or send us a Whatsapp message or voice memo on +44 330 1230 320. Please include your name and where you live.

Presenter: Chris Vallance

Producer: Tom Quinn

Editor: Monica Soriano

Image: A futuristic illustration of a human head connected to technology by an AI Agent. Credit: MF3d/Getty Images

What will the era of Agentic AI offer us ?

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