Rich On Tech

Pixel 11 Rambler speeds up replies: Rich says Google’s voice-to-text feature is accurate enough to dictate and format quick email responses on the fly.
Meta faces landmark child-safety case: States accuse Meta of designing Instagram and Facebook to keep young users engaged while failing to adequately protect kids.
Drone delivery is expanding fast: Amazon plans to bring Prime Air to 500 cities and towns, while Uber Eats and Zipline are also expanding drone delivery.
Flock is sending drones to 911 calls: The company’s police drones can reach scenes before officers and may help resolve some calls without dispatching police.
Beware Medicare card scams: A caller received a suspicious call asking whether she received a new Medicare card, a reminder to never give personal information to unsolicited callers.
Antenna Man explains free TV: A good antenna can deliver dozens of local channels for free, but choosing the right antenna and placement for your location is critical.
Check reception before buying an antenna: RabbitEars.info can estimate available stations, signal strength and the type of antenna you may need.
International calling requires planning: Check your carrier for an international roaming pass or consider an unlocked-phone eSIM that supports actual voice calls, not just data.
Prepare for power outages: A hand-crank emergency radio is an inexpensive backup, while portable power stations from brands like Jackery and EcoFlow can keep larger devices running.
YouTube Premium is adding Peacock: YouTube Premium subscribers are expected to get the ad-supported Peacock Premium plan in early 2027.
California DROP removes broker data: California residents can use the state’s free DROP system to request removal of their personal information from registered data brokers.
Google can remove personal info from search: Results About You alerts you when Google finds your phone number, address or other personal information and lets you request removal from search results.
Scammers are getting better with AI: Scamicide founder Steve Weisman says AI is improving phishing messages, voice clones and other scams, making independent verification more important than ever.
Secure your home router: Change default passwords, install firmware updates and consider replacing older routers that no longer receive automatic security patches.
Don’t trust customer-service numbers from search: Scammers can buy ads or manipulate search results, so get support numbers from a company’s official website, app or bill.
Instagram is adding major teen restrictions: Meta’s teen-safety changes include daily time limits, overnight restrictions, muted school-hour notifications and hidden like counts.
Samsung satellite service depends on phone and plan: Satellite connectivity requires compatible hardware and carrier support, so not every Galaxy phone or T-Mobile plan will qualify.
Don’t hide your Wi-Fi router: Putting a router or mesh node inside a cabinet can weaken the signal and undermine the benefits of a mesh system.
WiFiman can diagnose weak Wi-Fi: Ubiquiti’s WiFiman app can help visualize signal strength around the house and identify dead zones.
Spotify adds coached running workouts: Running Mode creates personalized workouts with music, cadence targets and coaching prompts for Premium subscribers on iPhone.
Aviate brings Flighty-style tracking to Android: The app tracks flights, boarding information and trip progress with live updates for Android users.
Ask T-Mobile for an outage credit: Customers affected by the recent outage may be able to get a bill credit by contacting customer service.
Samsung Messages has an unofficial replacement: Messages by Ozark’s Made recreates the Samsung Messages experience, though users should be cautious about trusting third-party messaging apps with sensitive data.
Accessibility features can help everyone: Shelly Brisbin highlighted tools including Live Listen, Dark Mode, AssistiveTouch and voice controls that can make phones easier to use.
Fake CAPTCHA attacks can install malware: If a “prove you’re human” page asks you to run commands or type codes into your computer, stop because it may be a ClickFix attack.
Windows Snipping Tool can copy stubborn text: Its text extraction feature can grab words from images or places where normal copy-and-paste doesn’t work.
Update a full iPhone using a computer: If there isn’t enough storage for an iOS update, connecting the phone to a Mac or PC may let you update without offloading apps.
Hide AirTags inside valuables: Trackers placed out of sight in luggage or shipped packages are harder for a thief to quickly find and remove.
Older Publisher versions may keep working: Users who rely on Microsoft Publisher can continue using a legitimately licensed older standalone version rather than switching immediately.
Apple Podcast reviews are easiest on iPhone: Find the show in Apple Podcasts, scroll to Ratings & Reviews, tap Write a Review and submit it. Pasted text
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Rich explains why he’s finally sold on AI agents after using ChatGPT Dots to order pizza, check in for a flight, research trips and handle everyday tasks.

Six major AI companies signed a voluntary safety agreement with the White House, but there are no penalties, deadlines or real enforcement.

Eduardo in Tampa is looking for an affordable new phone, but a free Metro deal won’t work if he’s switching from T-Mobile.

Consumer Reports found that many connected-car apps share information with advertising and analytics companies, including potentially sensitive personal data.

Samsung raised Galaxy S26 prices by $100, while Google raised the Pixel 10a price as tech products continue getting more expensive.

Dan in Moss Landing can’t connect his Chromebook to his iPhone hotspot, and Rich recommends turning on Maximize Compatibility.

Todd in Goodyear wants a phone with a microSD card slot, and Rich recommends the Fairphone, Moto G series and SMS Backup & Restore.

McDonald’s is using AI to help restaurants determine menu prices, but that doesn’t mean it’s setting a different price for each individual customer.

Rich says phones should stay away during meals so we can actually pay attention to the people we’re with.

Richie in Sherman Oaks wants to use an external camera with his Pixel as a dash cam, but Rich recommends keeping things simple with a dedicated dash cam.

Holiday shoppers expect to spend less on tech this year even as gadget prices rise, and Rich recommends CamelCamelCamel, Keepa and ShopSavvy to check whether a deal is real.

Rich explains how to do a quick privacy audit on iPhone and Android to stop unnecessary apps from constantly tracking your location.

Mark Anthony Arena, the Computer Exorcist, explains why he dislikes automatic cloud storage, photo sticks and third-party antivirus software.

LaShawn in Los Angeles keeps getting a Norton security warning on a friend’s Wi-Fi, but the problem appears to be a false alarm involving the network rather than an infected laptop.

Rich confirms those RFID hotel towel trackers are real after getting charged $25 for leaving a towel in his room.

Amazon Now can deliver groceries, gadgets and everyday essentials in about 30 minutes in supported areas.

Samsung’s new SmartTag 3 is smaller and lighter, lasts up to 550 days and can alert you when an item is moved.

Amazon updated its Kindle lineup, moved the Paperwhite power button and added new options for physical and remote page turning.

Rich says Face ID on the iPhone 18 Pro has been less reliable since Apple moved some of its hardware under the display.

Pluto TV added more than 200 free, ad-supported horror movies for Halloween.

Rich answers listener questions about cellular dead zones, converting audio files, flip phones and transferring iPhone photos to a PC.

Tony Gebhard, author of No Sight Required, explains how AI tools are giving blind and low-vision users more independence.

Listener feedback includes Google Photos headaches, hotel towel trackers, Flighty, California’s DROP privacy program and the green camera indicator on a Mac.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snapdragon focuses on AI: Qualcomm’s new chips aim to run more AI directly on phones, improving speed and reducing reliance on the cloud.

Google Book preview: Android-based laptops bring native apps and built-in AI tools, starting around $900.

New hardware demos: Rich tries a haptic mouse, robotic phone camera and augmented reality glasses, with mixed impressions of their everyday usefulness.

Meta Muse gets proactive: The assistant connects to personal services and completes browser tasks, raising questions about privacy and data access.

Meta expands wearables: New products include updated Ray-Ban glasses, a camera-free option and a lightweight VR headset with a separate computing pack.

Beats360 review: Swappable cushions make the $350 headphones versatile, but wired listening and automatic pause are missing.

Streaming prices climb: Disney and Hulu raise prices again; Rich suggests comparing bundles and canceling rarely used services.

Premiere comes to Android: Adobe’s editor offers free core tools without ads or watermarks, alongside paid AI features.

DIY karaoke: Rich suggests Ultimate Vocal Remover for separating vocals, then Audacity or GarageBand to record and mix your own.

iPhone Duo’s trade-offs: Apple’s foldable combines phone and small-tablet functions for roughly $2,000, with camera and portability compromises.

Apple’s foldable plans: Kaiann Drance discusses durability, multitasking and upcoming Apple Pencil support, with availability announced for October 23.

Avoid fake tech support: Use official support websites and be cautious of unfamiliar apps, cleaner utilities and phone numbers in search ads.

AI and personal finances: Rich discusses using connected accounts for budgeting while limiting access and reviewing privacy settings.

Fix Apple Watch weather: Restart the watch and iPhone, check location permissions and re-add the weather complication if needed.

Password manager options: Built-in tools offer convenience; independent services offer broader flexibility. Compare features and enable two-factor authentication.

Stop accidental 911 calls: Check for case or button interference and review Emergency SOS confirmation settings.

Verify Facebook security emails: Open Facebook directly and check recent security messages instead of following unexpected email links.

Upgrade an unsupported phone: Rich suggests recent refurbished models with remaining software support over unofficial Android installations.

Track luggage with AirTags: AirTags can work overseas through nearby Apple devices, with location sharing available for supported airlines.

Recover a Word document: Check the Recycle Bin, Word recovery tools and cloud copies before restoring a backup.

Find your next book: Reading trackers can organize your history, which AI can use to personalize recommendations.

Sonos expands audio controls: Sonos 27 adds new listening options and more natural voice commands through a gradual rollout.

Sonos volume shortcut: Rotate two fingers on the app’s screen to reveal a virtual volume knob.

Test a new carrier first: A second phone line lets you evaluate coverage before transferring your number.

Manage phone storage: Review storage settings and remove unused downloads after large software updates.

AI helps explain errors: Screen-aware search tools can interpret phone error messages and suggest fixes.

Listener feedback: Topics include human help with insurance claims, AI support, aging TiVo systems and finding TVs without smart features.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI gets more useful and more concerning: Rich says to use AI and understand it, but question its answers rather than blindly trusting it.
AI can provide emotional support: Caller Bonnie used ChatGPT to help process the loss of her dog, while Bridget Todd explained why emotional connections with AI are becoming more common.
Meta Muse is a personal AI assistant: Rich likes Meta’s new Muse app, which can connect to email, calendars, reminders and tasks to help get things done.
iPhone 18 Pro is great, but not a must-upgrade: Better battery life, cooler operation and a variable-aperture camera stand out, but recent iPhone owners can probably wait.
Siri finally gets much smarter: Siri can privately index messages, emails, photos and other personal information so you can ask questions about your own life.
Spectrum Mobile could save a caller $1,500: Rich says the free-year offer could be worthwhile, but check Verizon coverage where you live and work before switching.
Watch for government impersonation scams: If someone claiming to be with the government or law enforcement demands immediate payment, hang up and independently verify the claim.
Restart first when an app stops working: A caller with Gmail trouble was reminded that a simple phone restart should be the first troubleshooting step.
Stop Samsung Wi-Fi from turning itself back on: Disable "Turn Wi-Fi on automatically" under Intelligent Wi-Fi if you want full control over the connection.
Facebook lockout workaround: If normal account recovery fails, a paid Meta support plan may provide access to a real person who can help.
How the Apple Store was created: Former Apple retail chief Ron Johnson shared how he and Steve Jobs built the stores around service, hands-on experiences and the Genius Bar.
You can completely turn off Siri: iOS 27 adds an option under Settings > Siri to disable Siri entirely.
You can't remove data from the dark web: After a breach, focus on protecting yourself by limiting shared personal information and freezing your credit when appropriate.
Amazon Prime Big Deal Days are October 6 and 7: Add items you want to your cart ahead of time so it's easier to spot real price drops.
Fix missing email on an iPhone: Go to Settings > Apps > Mail > Mail Accounts and try reconnecting, or remove and re-add the affected account.
Apple Watch finally shows steps on the watch face: Series 12 and Ultra 4 can display near-real-time step counts without a third-party app.
Portable hotspots won't work at sea: Cellular hotspots need a cellular signal, so they won't replace cruise ship Wi-Fi when you're offshore.
AirPods microphone acting up? Clean them first: Carefully clean the earbuds and microphone areas before assuming the hardware needs replacing.
Chrome pop-ups may come from rogue extensions: Remove extensions you don't recognize, check notification permissions and clear browser data.
Skip questionable streaming black boxes: Rich recommends legitimate streaming services over devices that can bring legal, privacy, security and reliability concerns.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple launches the $2,000 iPhone Duo, its first foldable with a 5.4-inch outer screen, 7.6-inch inner display, MagSafe and Apple Pencil support.
iPhone Duo software could be its biggest advantage, with apps optimized for the foldable screen instead of simply being stretched larger.
IDScan confirms a major driver’s license breach, prompting Rich to recommend free credit freezes with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
Political spam texts are best filtered, not answered, since replying can confirm your number is active and lead to even more messages.
iPhone 18 Pro gets a $100 price hike, starting at $1,200 with variable aperture photography, improved cooling and longer battery life.
A cellular Apple Watch can help after a fall, with fall detection and the ability to call for help even when your iPhone isn’t nearby.
Smart TVs can become “dumb” TVs, simply by leaving them offline and using an Apple TV, Roku or Fire TV for streaming.
Infinite Fi’s $49 unlimited internet claim doesn’t add up, because any hotspot still needs cellular, satellite or another real internet connection.
Rich recommends Mayday on Apple TV for family movie night, calling the Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh movie a fun crowd-pleaser.
Flaky Windows Wi-Fi may be a driver issue, so update Windows, reconnect to your network and make sure an old router isn’t still broadcasting.
Consent phishing can bypass passwords and 2FA, by tricking you into granting a malicious app legitimate access to your account.
Changing your password may not stop consent phishing, so also check connected apps and revoke anything you don’t recognize.
Tablo and ZapperBox make antenna TV easier, with options for watching or recording free over-the-air channels.
Brian Tong calls iPhone Duo an impressive first-gen foldable, but says its price, weight and thickness remain real compromises.
AirPods 5 may be Apple’s sleeper upgrade, bringing noise cancellation to the open-fit design for $149.
An AI researcher quit Anthropic over safety concerns, warning that future self-improving systems could become difficult for humans to control.
NormalTools.com is a handy free utility site, with nearly 200 browser-based tools for PDFs, images, QR codes, calculations and more.
Apple Watch Series 12 improves health tracking, with more frequent measurements, a readiness score and new sound recognition alerts.
Apple Watch Live Rewind can show what was just said, using an opt-in feature that displays a transcript of roughly the last 15 seconds.
NordVPN says people remain the cybersecurity weak link, as AI makes phishing scams cheaper, faster and more convincing.
Privacy.com can help stop unwanted free-trial renewals, by using virtual cards that can be limited or shut off after signup.
Lance Ulanoff says Duo’s matte display helps hide the crease, making it much less noticeable during normal use.
Apple Pencil support makes Duo more tablet-like, especially for drawing, writing and creative apps such as Procreate.
Pixel’s Now Playing identifies songs automatically, displaying nearby music on the lock screen without requiring a search.
Ooma cut one listener’s landline bill from $127 to about $20 a month, while letting him keep the same longtime phone number.
Libby offers free audiobooks and ebooks with a library card, although popular titles may have waitlists and borrowing deadlines.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.