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We chatting about the major implications of Spectre and Meltdown. Both of these vulnerabilities in computer security are critical to understand, both from a technical side and a user security side. Spectre and Meltdown tear at the fundamental core of how we build and operate our computing systems over the past twenty years. Amazon Go opened in Seattle with much praise and excitement, showing that a grocery store can function without checkout lines and workers. Microsoft is attempting to capitalize in the classroom by introducing new laptops for educators and students. The question remains – why are they so late and why are they so behind. Montana introduces the first ever state based net neutrality regulations for ISPs to follow, a first major step in protecting equal access to information, data, and services.
Why Spectre and Meltdown Are Critical to Understand
Google’s Project Zero found one of the largest vulnerabilities in central processing units (CPUs), a vulnerability that tears at the foundation of the basics of computing and computer security. With the ability to attack CPUs, every chip in every device over the past 20 years is susceptible to attack. Check out the four links provides below in Resources for additional details and readings. As news continues to roll in, this is what we know at the moment.
- Spectre targets process memory and Meltdown targets kernel memory
- Spectre breeches branch prediction; Meltdown intercepts speculative execution
- Such CPU design standards (i.e. prediction) are manufactured into every chip today
- JavaScript can be tricked into giving hacker user/password information
- Update your mobile devices, tablets, desktops, and browsers for security patches
Get In Line at Amazon Go – Sounds Funny
In December 2016, Amazon tested the waters by using technologies such as computer vision, sensor fusion, and more to open a store without workers and without checkout lines. After working on the concept and technology a bit more, Amazon Go is now officially open for business in Seattle.
- The 1,800 square foot store offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack items
- Customers enter store, scan in their Amazon account, choose their items, and leave
- Amazon is beginning to redefine the shopping experience with this store concept
- The storefront is ideal in highly populated, highly dense regions of the United States
Microsoft Playing Check Up in Education
Ten years ago, Microsoft was so well positioned to dominate the classroom and educational spaces across the country. Their presence was felt in institutions, libraries, and classrooms. After failing to capitalize on introduce quality laptops and products, they are fighting to get back in the game with new Windows 10 laptops.
- The price point of $189 (100e) and $279 (300e) is attractive in the industry
- Microsoft struggles to keep future generations within a system of software and services
- Google Chromebooks and Google Classroom dominate with over 50% covered
- There’s always a place for Microsoft in the classroom but to what extent is the question
State-Based Net Neutrality Regulations Coming to Montana
The Democratic Governor of Montana, Steve Bullock, signed an executive order requiring Internet Service Providers (ISPs) under state contracts to adhere to net neutrality regulations moving forward. It’s a great start to a major movement across the tech industry to save equal access to information and data.
- The FCC’s decision to roll back Federal regulations prompted this move in Montana
- Montana has hundreds of contracts in place with ISP delivery service to state agencies
- This move protects rural schools, hospitals, universities, care centers, and more
- New York, Rhode Island, Washington, and other states are drafting new regulations too
Resources
Spectre and Meltdown Explained
Tech Giants Scramble for Patches
The Average Guy Podcast – Technical Breakdown
Intel Tells Users to Stop Deploying Spectre Patch
Microsoft challenges Chromebooks
Montana Introduces First State Specific Net Neutrality Rules
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Paying for TV and Show 100 Celebration
Welcome to a celebratory episode of Waves of Tech. We finally reached the century mark for the podcast…EPISODE 100! Riding the waves of tech the past few years has come with its fair share of ups, downs, failures, successes, and struggles.
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Facebook and Prison, iPhone 5 and Animal Gadgets
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Here we go again folks! Waves of Tech throws some topics your way and we would love to here from you. This week, we respond to listener feedback and find out that social media has infiltrated the prison system and requires some much needed attention. We breakdown a recent survey that lists Google Inc as the #1 employer of choice for young professionals, Apple is #2. The iPhone 5 isn’t expected to be released until the beginning of 2012 (no surprise) and Dave delivers some wacky tech gadgets that just may fit the lifestyle of yourself and your furry family members. It’s time to ride…the Waves of Tech
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Show Notes
1. Facebook in Prisons
Social Media continues to change our way of life. It has infiltrated human resources, the business/corporate world, the podcasting world, and now the prison system. South Dakota is in process of implementing new policies regarding the use of social networking sites for incarcerated individuals. There are many elements to this story. Tune in to our discussion and check out the link as well.
2. List of Desired Employers
Nearly 25% of young professionals list Google Inc as their #1 employer of choice. That’s nearly 12% greater than second place, Apple. Government agencies such as the FBI, CIA, and NASA crack the Top 10 along with Walt Disney, Amazon, and Microsoft. What makes an individual want to work for high profile companies? There are plenty and we break it down right here and now.3. iPhone 5
Are you surprised that the iPhone 5 is already being rumored to miss its release date of June? The crew, no. We believe Apple is playing the waiting game and is going to release the product simultaneously with Verizon and AT&T. Yes, yes…customers are going to be frustrated and irritated at the fact that they must wait six months their next upgrade, but we’re sure it will be worth it.4.Crazy Tech Gadgets for Dogs & Cats
It’s always good to mix it up and bit and throw in some tech humor. Being the crazy dog lover that Dave is, he shares some of the cool tech gadgets out there for dogs and cats. USB flash drives that store animal history, automatic ball launchers, and neck-bound cameras are a few of the latest craves in the animal kingdom. -
Time Manage Your Content And Verizon Sure Response
Steve and Dave breakdown the potential success of Verizon’s SureResponse personal emergency response device available to users right now. They also discuss how to use technology to time manage your content, specially when sporting events and political debates occur at the same time.