The article explores the intersection of technology and entertainment through a podcast episode titled “Uncanny Valley.” It discusses how automated shufflers in private poker games can be hacked, emphasizing the risks of digital manipulation in high-stakes environments. The hosts also delve into smart home security concerns, highlighting the dangers of connected devices with built-in cameras. A personal anecdote about hacking a poker game using a USB-based shuffler underscores the ease of such exploits. The episode further critiques overt product placements in TV shows, such as those in *Nobody Wants This*, and compares the pros and cons of audiobooks versus eBooks. Andy Greenberg and Michael Calore provide humorous and insightful commentary on tech trends, offering both cautionary advice and lighthearted recommendations for readers.
Key facts
- Automated shufflers in private poker games can be hacked to manipulate card orders.
- Smart home devices with built-in cameras pose significant privacy risks if not properly secured.
- A personal anecdote reveals how a USB-based shuffler was used to hack a poker game.
- Product placements in TV shows, like those in *Nobody Wants This*, are often criticized for being overly obvious.
- Spotify audiobooks offer instant access to new releases, making them more appealing than eBooks for some users.
