TechMagic with Cathy Hackl

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler return from a holiday break to unpack the most important ideas and innovations from CES 2026. Cathy breaks down how the AI conversation has evolved beyond large language models into embodied AI, agentic systems, world models, and on-device intelligence. The discussion spans standout demos, from attention-aware robots and immersive VR experiences to smart wearables and biodegradable batteries. Cathy and Lee also question whether AI is solving real problems or becoming an innovation theatre. We end with a forward look at 2027 as a critical inflection point for AI devices from Apple, OpenAI, and Meta.Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler BioLee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like Will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.Lee Kebler on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics: 00:00 Intro: Welcome Back to Tech Magic in 202603:27 AI's Evolution: From Language Models to Embodied Intelligence05:30 Glasses Galore: Meta Ray-Ban Displays and Wearable Utility09:26 Robots Everywhere: From Laundry Folders to AI-Powered Lawnmowers12:00 CES 2027 Inflection Point: Q3-Q4 2026 Device Announcements to Watch16:11 Innovation Theater vs. Problem-Solving: Evaluating Real Tech Impact18:21 Trinity Vehicle and Cool Concepts: NVIDIA and Will.i.am's AI-Powered EV20:51 Biodegradable Paper Batteries: Flint's Sustainable Solution23:04 XR Display Glasses and Next-Gen Wearables: X Real and Gaming Integration24:01 Attention Labs: On-Device AI and Data Sovereignty in Robotics27:53 Why On-Device AI Matters: Global Markets and Data Regulations29:30 IXR Podcast Meetup: Felix and Paul's Interstellar Arc VR Experience33:32 LEGO Smart Bricks: The Future of Educational Robotics35:44 Final Thoughts: CES as Geekapalooza and Plans for 2027 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Greatest Hits episode of Tech Magic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Lee Kebler dive into the latest tech developments, from Meta's bold moves in AR to Apple's Vision Pro journey one year later. They highlight Meta's success with Ray-Ban AI glasses, Apple’s challenges in AR innovation, and how creators are evolving into media moguls. Cathy also interviews special guest Jeff Barrett, who shares insights on building sustainable creator careers, the rise of nano-influencers, and the global expansion of digital content platforms. Whether you’re into cutting-edge tech or the creator economy, this episode captures 2025’s emerging trends.Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler BioLee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.Lee Kebler on LinkedInJeff Barrett BioJeff Barrett serves as the Chief Evangelist at the Shorty Awards, where he's been involved with the organization for 10 years. A former Shorty Award winner for Best Business Blogger, Barrett has evolved from a creator to an agency leader, demonstrating the possible progression within the creator economy. His journey began uniquely on MySpace and included creating a successful parody account on Twitter that inadvertently led to legitimate recognition in the marketing world. Barrett currently hosts the Shorty Awards show and runs a podcast called "It's No Fluke," which has produced over 130 episodes featuring leaders from major companies like Google, Meta, and the NFL.Jeff Barrett on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics00:00 - Intro & Tech News Overview02:50 - The Future of American XR: Competition and Innovation11:15 - Meta's Metaverse Strategy: Make or Break Year28:18 - Apple Vision Pro: One Year Later41:24 - Interview with Jeff Barrett: The Evolution of the Shorty Awards47:32 - The Creator Economy: Trends and Future Growth53:27 - Building Sustainable Creator-Brand Partnerships01:02:34 - Creator Identity & Platform Evolution01:07:55 - Final Thoughts & Media Recommendations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl is joined by Samantha G Wolfe, founder of PitchFWD and NYU adjunct professor, to explore how AI and emerging tech are redefining relationships. From AI-generated love letters to dating in virtual environments, they examine the evolving boundaries between authentic connection and digital convenience. The duo discusses the ethics of emotional AI, the importance of human messiness, and the need for “non-AI pledges” in romance. Packed with Cathy’s real-world experiments and insightful commentary, this episode is essential for anyone navigating love, intimacy, and connection in a world increasingly shaped by technology.What you will learn:How AI companions are being used beyond loneliness reliefWhy the "messiness" of human relationships remains valuable How to navigate the balance between technology-enhanced and authentic human connections in modern dating using Cathy’s Tech Intimacy ScaleThe emerging challenges of AI-generated messages in relationshipsWhy creating "non-AI relationship pledges" might become important How spatial computing and 3D interactions could transform the future of digital dating and what Cathy’s building to disrupt this space Why human presence and in-person connections remain crucial Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Samantha G Wolfe BioSamantha G Wolfe is the founder of Pitch Forward and an adjunct professor at NYU, where she teaches pioneering courses on avatars, AI agents, and virtual beings. With a background in psychology, television, and emerging tech, Sam specializes in brand strategy for bleeding-edge technologies, helping visionary companies clearly articulate their value and future impact. Her expertise spans AI, spatial computing, XR, haptics, and metaverse innovation across 20+ industries. Known for her clarity, depth, and contagious enthusiasm, she bridges the gap between innovation and understanding through thought leadership, marketing strategy, and education, empowering the world to grasp the true potential of tomorrow’s tech.Samantha G Wolfe on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Special Episode on Tech, Love & Life02:47 Dating in the Age of AI: Government Restrictions and Digital Romance12:20 Beyond Loneliness: The Many Reasons People Use AI Companions16:05 The Value of Human "Messiness" in Relationships21:00 Reimagining Digital Dating Through 3D Presence38:15 The Non-AI Relationship Pledge: Setting Digital Boundaries44:53 The Tech Intimacy Scale: Finding Balance in Modern Love50:20 Dating AI Chatbots: A Week-Long Experiment Preview58:54 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Human Connection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Greatest Hits episode of TechMagic, hosts Cathy Hackl and Adam Davis McGee dive into the cutting edge of spatial computing, AI, and extended reality. Join Cathy and Adam as they unpack Meta’s XR partnership with Palmer Luckey, Snap’s smart glasses ambitions, and Apple’s sleek AR design strategy. Cathy dives into the strange world of vibe coding and discovers anyone can gamify the pitfalls of the dating scene. The conversation also explores AI dating experiments, haptic tech in entertainment, and the evolving ethics of privacy in a spatially connected world. With insights from AWE and ILMxLAB, they reflect on the shift from storytelling to “story living” and highlight key legislation shaping AI security. A must-listen for anyone tracking the future of tech-human interaction.Come for the tech, stay for the magic!Cathy Hackl BioCathy Hackl is a globally recognized tech & gaming executive, futurist, and speaker focused on spatial computing, virtual worlds, augmented reality, AI, strategic foresight, and gaming platforms strategy. She’s one of the top tech voices on LinkedIn and is the CEO of Spatial Dynamics, a spatial computing and AI solutions company, including gaming. Cathy has worked at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Magic Leap, and HTC VIVE and has advised companies like Nike, Ralph Lauren, Walmart, Louis Vuitton, and Clinique on their emerging tech and gaming journeys. She has spoken at Harvard Business School, MIT, SXSW, Comic-Con, WEF Annual Meeting in Davos 2023, CES, MWC, Vogue’s Forces of Fashion, and more. Cathy Hackl on LinkedInSpatial Dynamics on LinkedInLee Kebler BioLee has been at the forefront of blending technology and entertainment since 2003, creating advanced studios for icons like Will.i.am and producing music for Britney Spears and Big & Rich. Pioneering in VR since 2016, he has managed enterprise data at Nike, led VR broadcasting for Intel at the Japan 2020 Olympics, and driven large-scale marketing campaigns for Walmart, Levi’s, and Nasdaq. A TEDx speaker on enterprise VR, Lee is currently authoring a book on generative AI and delving into splinternet theory and data privacy as new tech laws unfold across the US.Lee Kebler on LinkedInAdam Davis-McGee BioAdam Davis-McGee is a dynamic Creative Director and Producer specializing in immersive storytelling across XR and traditional media. As Senior Producer at Journey, he led the virtual studio, pioneering cutting-edge virtual experiences. He developed a Web3 playbook for Yum! Brands, integrating blockchain and NFT strategies. At Condé Nast, Adam produced engaging video content for Wired and Ars Technica, amplifying digital storytelling. His groundbreaking XR journalism project, In Protest: Grassroots Stories from the Frontlines (Oculus/Meta), captured historic moments in VR. Passionate about pushing creative boundaries, Adam thrives on crafting innovative narratives that captivate audiences worldwide.Adam Davis-McGee on LinkedInKey Discussion Topics:00:00 Intro: Welcome to Tech Magic with Cathy Hackl06:33 Meta's Eagle Eye: Military XR Partnership with Palmer Luckey14:05 Apple's Liquid Glass: Paving the Way for AR Glasses17:25 Haptic Innovation: Apple's F1 Movie Trailer Experience19:18 Human vs AI: Why F1 Racing Needs the Human Element22:27 Browser History Dating: AI's Latest Match-Making Experiment26:27 Snap's Vision: Consumer Smart Glasses Coming in 202631:27 From Storytelling to Story Living: ILMxLAB's Immersive Future33:54 Closing Thoughts: Summer Break Announcement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of TechMagic, hosts Lee Kebler and Adam Davis McGee unpack the rapid shifts transforming AI, hardware, and creative industries. Cathy is away this week and will be back in the new year. Lee and Adam explore how RAM manufacturers are pivoting away from consumer electronics toward AI, and how this will spike gaming and device prices in 2026, why Meta’s mixed-reality delays open the door for Google’s surprising partnership with Warby Parker, and how Google may be quietly edging ahead in the AI race. In the second half, Lee speaks with Ryan McMahan, who breaks down the legal and ethical storm surrounding AI-generated music. Together, they examine copyright grey zones, artist rights, and why AI is becoming more of an accelerant for creativity than a replacement for human artistry.Come for the tech and stay for the magic!Key Discussion Topics:01:40: RAM Shortage Will Devastate Consumer Electronics Pricing in 202606:12: Meta's Mixed Reality Delay & the Battle Between Google and Meta11:29: Why Google Will Win the AI Race Over OpenAI23:52: AI Music Generation and the Copyright Crisis on Spotify33:28: Meet Ryan McMahan: Artist Manager Fighting for Creator Rights35:34: Blanco Brown's Story: From Platinum to Fighting AI38:50: The First Major Artist Covers an AI-Generated Song40:45: Understanding Covers vs. Derivatives in Copyright Law45:51: AI as a Creative Tool, Not a Job Replacement50:32: The Fast Fashion Problem in Modern Music Production57:31: Independent Artists Need Representation at Policy Tables01:01:45: Creative Industry Workers Share AI Concerns and Opportunities01:04:17: Meta's Consent Prompt: Is Algorithmic Boost Tied to AI Training Permission?01:05:59: Key Takeaways: AI, Copyright, and the Future of Creative Work Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.