BBC Studios launched its new tech podcast The Interface last week and it hit number one in the Apple charts for tech podcasts with its first episode.
Episode two goes live today at 3pm on BBC Sounds and all major podcast platforms in the UK. This week, hosts Thomas Germain, Karen Hao, and Nicky Woolf explore whether AI chat bots can be trusted, the impact of data centres on local communities, and Elon Musk’s plans for global internet control.
The episode tests AI accuracy by deliberately posting false information online. Using a fictional hot dog eating championship, the team found AI chat bots like Chat GPT, Claude, and Grok reported it as fact. The Interface asks whether safeguards exist to prevent AI from spreading misleading information in more serious areas such as health, politics, or unregulated products.
The hosts also examine how governments are prioritising planning applications for data centres needed to power AI. The discussion highlights the effects on local towns and the tension between technological advancement and community impact.
Also, the second episode covers Elon Musk’s Starlink ambitions, including proposals to launch up to one million satellites. The team debates whether one individual should have the power to influence global internet access.
The Interface offers a weekly look at technology shaping the world, unpacking news stories without guests or jargon.
New episodes are every Thursday on BBC Sounds in the UK, and internationally via BBC.com or wherever you get your podcasts. A video version is also available on YouTube under “The Interface podcast”.
