This week on the GeekWire radio show and podcast, we talk about Apple’s new Mac OS X Lion ushering in a new trend in computing; explore the implications of Zillow’s IPO; and debate the relative merits of a new windshield display technology from MicroVision.

Our guest in the studio is Shwetak Patel, an assistant professor of computer science and electrical engineering from the University of Washington, who has figured out how to use voltage noise on home electrical systems to monitor the energy usage of specific appliances and devices, and also how to use home wiring as an antenna to receive signals from sensors around the home.

In our final segment, we have a blockbuster installment of our Name that Tech Tune contest, featuring a chance to win an HTC Sensation device from T-Mobile USA.

Listen to the full show above or directly via this MP3 file.

Shwetak Patel in the KIRO studios

Stories and links related to the subjects we discussed …

Too much tablet? Apple, Microsoft at risk of overdose

Zillow IPO sparks bubble worries, but here’s what the pundits are missing

Microvision to bring windshield display technology to mystery automaker

Shwetak Patel: UW researcher Shwetak Patel chosen as Microsoft Research faculty fellow … Shwetak featured in July issue of Wired magazine … Details on Belkin’s acquisition of ZensiSensors use building’s electrical wiring as antenna. Shwetak’s UW home page.

Name that Tech Tune for a chance to win an HTC Sensation.

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