‘Uncanny Valley’: Tech Elites in the Epstein Files, Musk’s Mega Merger, and a Crypto Scam Compound

Several big names in tech turned up in the Epstein files. In this episode of Uncanny Valley, our hosts break down what it all means, plus catch you up on other big stories of the week.

Epstein Files Reveal Peter Thiel’s Elaborate Dietary Restrictions

The latest batch of Jeffrey Epstein files shed light on the convicted sex offender’s ties to Silicon Valley—and Peter Thiel’s exacting approach to food.

After Minneapolis, Tech CEOs Are Struggling to Stay Silent

Silicon Valley’s power brokers spent the past year currying favor with President Trump. Two deadly shootings in Minneapolis are now exposing the price of that bargain.

No Phone, No Social Safety Net: Welcome to the ‘Offline Club’

Across Europe’s largest cities, people are gathering for semi-silent, offline hangouts, in search of an experience that isn’t mediated through their smartphones.

The Math on AI Agents Doesn’t Add Up

A research paper suggests AI agents are mathematically doomed to fail. The industry doesn’t agree.

Former USDS Leaders Launch Tech Reform Project to Fix What DOGE Broke

The plan, which is still in its early stages, is spearheaded by former USDS administrator Mikey Dickerson.

Tech Workers Are Condemning ICE Even as Their CEOs Stay Quiet

The killing of George Floyd in 2020 prompted a wave of statements from tech companies and CEOs. Today, pushback against ICE is largely coming from employees, not executives.

China’s Hottest App Is a Daily Test of Whether You’re Still Alive

Are You Dead Yet soared to the top of app-store charts and became a magnet for investors. In an exclusive interview with WIRED, one of its creators says they’re changing the name anyway.

Silicon Valley Billionaires Panic Over California’s Proposed Wealth Tax

Larry Page’s apparent Florida move highlights how seriously the ultra-rich are taking a one-time tax aimed at extreme wealth inequality.

Steve Jobs’ Early Apple Items Are Going Up for Auction—Along With His Bow Ties

Some of the objects came from Steve Jobs’ childhood bedroom. They’re being made available by his stepbrother, John Chovanec.