AI ordered my pizza, your car is spying on you & tech prices are rising (194, October 3, 2026)
Saturday, October 3, 2026 • Duration 01:48:18
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.
My new favorite AI assistant, tech support scams & Apple’s foldable (193, September 26, 2026)
Sunday, September 27, 2026 • Duration 01:43:46
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.
Meta’s new Muse delivers, Siri gets smart & Apple Store secrets (192, September 19, 2026)
Saturday, September 19, 2026 • Duration 01:47:56
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.
iPhone Duo wins me over, hackers bypass 2FA & how to make your smart TV dumb (191, September 12, 2026)
Saturday, September 12, 2026 • Duration 01:44:53
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.
, warning that future self-improving systems could become difficult for humans to control.
3 ways to stop hackers, Amazon’s scam checker & AI flight price alerts (190, September 5, 2026)
Saturday, September 5, 2026 • Duration 01:49:49
Driver’s license scans exposed: More than 153 million U.S. and Canadian ID records were reportedly offered on the dark web. Freeze your credit and consider an IRS Identity Protection PIN.
Translation tools for travel:Timekettle, AirPods and Pixel Buds can translate conversations, but a phone translation app may be easier in important situations.
Tesla Cybercab goes driverless:David Moss rode Tesla’s steering-wheel-free Cybercab in Austin and discussed how autonomous vehicles could improve mobility for blind, disabled and elderly passengers.
International calling while traveling: Check your carrier for a roaming pass or use a travel eSIM. Simbye is one option that can include a real phone number.
Amazon scam checker:Alexa for Shopping can check whether a suspicious Amazon email, text or call is legitimate. You can also forward suspicious emails to verify@amazon.com.
Daily spelling game:Beeswax gives players five words a day to spell by listening to their pronunciation.
Save money on home internet, removing hidden PC malware & choosing the right TV antenna (189, August 29, 2026)
Sunday, August 30, 2026 • Duration 01:48:59
Rich talked about shopping around for high-speed internet and shared tools and tips to help you find a better plan, faster speeds or a lower price.
Apple has set September 9 for its next big event, where we’re expecting to see the new iPhone 18 Pro models and Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
Matthew is having issues with his Sonos speakers disappearing and not showing up in the Sonos app.
Mike in the South Bay runs a small IT company and says he’s seeing fake invitation scams that can secretly install remote-access software on computers. He found that an app called Uninstalr can successfully detect and remove it. TechSpot article
Shelly is wondering if she should sign up for Guardio. Rich says the service asks for a lot of access to your accounts, and many of its protections can be handled on your own. He recommends turning on Chrome’s Enhanced Safe Browsing, avoiding suspicious links and phone numbers in unsolicited messages, and freezing your credit.
Gary in Laguna Niguel wants to know if his prepaid T-Mobile plan supports satellite connectivity on his Samsung Galaxy A54.
Michael asked about the Glide smart cane for people who are blind or have low vision. Rich also mentioned the WeWALK smart cane and the Oko app and CSUN Assistive Tech Conference exhibitor list.
My new favorite movie app, two-factor scams & a robot that draws your blood (188, August 22, 2026)
Saturday, August 22, 2026 • Duration 01:49:22
Meta faces landmark teen safety trial: Twenty-nine states accuse Meta of designing Facebook and Instagram to hook young users while misleading parents about safety. Former Meta executive Arturo Behar testified that growth and engagement often took priority over child safety, while Meta denies wrongdoing.
Pixel 11’s Rambler speeds up replies: Rich says the Pixel 11 Pro’s Rambler voice-to-text feature has made it much faster to respond to emails by turning spoken thoughts into clean, formatted text.
I Like Movies app tracks what to watch: Rich recommends the clean, feature-packed movie tracking app, which is available on Android now with an iPhone version expected in September.
Watching KTLA without home internet: Marshall in Reseda wants to watch KTLA+ without home internet. KTLA+ is designed for supported smart TV platforms, but KTLA.com, YouTube and an over-the-air antenna provide other ways to watch KTLA programming.
Apple Passwords vs. Bitwarden: Silvanna asks whether Apple Passwords is secure enough for an all-Apple household. Rich says it is a solid choice, while Bitwarden remains useful for people who want a free password manager that works across multiple platforms.
Password managers and 2FA are essential: Rich recommends using unique passwords through a password manager and enabling two-factor authentication. Never give an authentication code to someone who unexpectedly calls or messages asking for it.
OpenAI vs. ChatGPT explained: Neon asks whether OpenAI will eventually replace ChatGPT. Rich explains that OpenAI is the company and ChatGPT is one of its products, similar to Google making Gemini and Anthropic making Claude.
Charter and Cox complete their merger: Former Cox customers do not need to take immediate action, but Spectrum products begin rolling out in Cox markets in mid-September. Changes include a free year of Spectrum Mobile for eligible internet customers, automatic credits for outages over two hours, expanded U.S.-based support and SportsNet LA for former Cox TV customers.
How to spot and stop scams, Pixel 11 explained & my new restaurant search trick (187, August 15, 2026)
Sunday, August 16, 2026 • Duration 01:45:34
• Scam protection: Slow down, stop the conversation, and independently verify requests before sending money, sharing codes, or installing software.
• Family code words: Set up a private family code word to help verify emergency calls that could use AI-cloned voices.
• Calendar spam: Fake PayPal charges can appear as calendar events, so restrict invitations from unknown senders.
• Saving old email: Use Gmail import or Thunderbird to save messages before an old email account is shut down.
• OnePay legitimacy: OnePay appears legitimate, but always research customer service, banking partners, and company details before moving money.
• Pixel 11 lineup: Google’s Pixel 11 phones bring upgraded cameras, more AI features, faster charging, and higher starting prices.
• Which Pixel to buy: Rich’s early pick is the Pixel 11 Pro XL with 512 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM.
• Pixel Tag: Google’s $29 AirTag-style tracker arrives November 11.
• Microsoft Publisher replacement: Canva is an easy Publisher alternative, while Affinity Publisher offers a more traditional desktop experience.
• Verizon outage: If your phone suddenly says SOS, check DownDetector and your carrier’s status page before changing settings.
• Cheaper wireless plans: MVNOs like PureTalk can save money by using major carrier networks without the premium pricing.
• Instagram redesign: Instagram changed its in-app wordmark for the first time in 10 years.
• Trusting AI: AI can sound certain even when it is wrong, so verify important answers and use it to assist rather than replace your judgment.
Hotel Wi-Fi warning, delete your data for free & Ask YouTube’s hidden AI search (186, August 8, 2026)
Saturday, August 8, 2026 • Duration 01:47:22
03:04 — Hotel Wi-Fi attacks target travelers: Hackers linked to Russia are targeting hotel and conference Wi-Fi login systems and redirecting users to convincing fake update or security pages. Rich says public Wi-Fi is still usable, but never install software or enter authentication codes because a captive portal tells you to. Use cellular or a hotspot for sensitive activity.
10:04 — Wendy in Yorba Linda gets unwanted Chrome pop-ups: Her OnePlus 11 keeps opening game websites even after clearing Chrome data. Rich recommends removing unfamiliar or unused apps, checking Chrome notification permissions for rogue websites, updating Android, and installing the latest Google Play system update before considering a factory reset.
15:12 — NFL Sunday Ticket discounts can cut the cost: Verizon customers, students, military members, veterans, first responders, teachers and healthcare workers may qualify for substantial discounts. Rich recommends checking eligibility before paying the roughly $500 full-season price.
17:31 — Cyberattacks expose weaknesses in U.S. water systems: Scott Edwards, CEO of Summit 7, says many small water utilities have internet-connected industrial controllers with weak security, including default passwords and exposed ports. Recent attacks have affected systems in multiple states, highlighting how limited cybersecurity resources can leave critical infrastructure vulnerable.
26:56 — Google Assistant is being replaced by Gemini: Google plans to begin removing the classic Assistant from Android phones September 4, with Gemini becoming the default and no option to switch back. Gemini handles conversations and complex requests better, but some traditional Assistant and smart-home functions may not work the same way.
29:09 — Rick in Torrance asks Chrome or Safari on a Mac: Rich prefers Chrome for its extensions, compatibility and protection, while Safari offers stronger privacy protections by default and is optimized for Apple hardware. The best choice ultimately depends on which features matter most.
How I got an Uber refund, should you lease an iPhone & the robot vacuum ban (Episode 185, August 1, 2026)
Saturday, August 1, 2026 • Duration 01:49:39
Rich talked about the pros and cons of Apple’s new iPhone leasing program.
Rich ordered an Uber, and they charged him 66% more than the quote. All he did was ask them to review the root and fare calculation for accuracy and got a credit for the difference.
Mickey writes in to ask if wireless charging on airplanes and at public charging stations could be a security risk.
AI continues to hack real companies during security tests. The bottom line is you need to take cybersecurity seriously, no matter what, if it’s personal or for your small business.
Julie in Riverside is looking for a portable emergency radio with solar charging or a hand crank. Rich recommended this model from C. Crane or this less expensive option from Amazon.
Rich also mentioned portable power stations from Jackery and EcoFlow.
Brian Collins, Executive Director of Earth Fire Alliance, will explain how its FireSat satellite network is designed to spot wildfires earlier, track them from space and give firefighters better information to protect communities.
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.
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.
iPhone blocked-number limits: Apple appears to limit how many numbers can be blocked, and removing thousands of old entries can be tedious.
DVRs for antenna TV:Tablo and ZapperBox can record free over-the-air TV. Rich found the $15 Philips rabbit ears delivered consistent reception for his main channels.
Sonos 27 gets smarter: Sonos is adding more natural voice control, AI features, lock-screen controls and easier volume adjustments.
New Sonos gear: The Beam Ultra soundbar can use portable Sonos speakers as surrounds, while Ace Ultra headphones add improved noise cancellation and 35-hour battery life.
Setting boundaries for AI:Will Cady says AI should expand human abilities rather than become a crutch that weakens them.
Charging driverless cars: Autonomous EV fleets still need charging infrastructure, although modern fast charging can dramatically reduce downtime.
Cleaning up Gmail: Use All Mail for bulk deletion or filter by sender to quickly remove large batches of unwanted messages.
Free California data removal: California residents can use DROP to request deletion from registered data brokers, while paid services such as Incogni offer broader removal tools.
Top laptops for 2026:Consumer Reports highlighted models from LG, Asus, Apple and Acer for Windows, travel, creative work, budget buyers and Chromebook users.
HTC privacy-focused smart glasses: The $500 HTC Vive Eagle combines cameras, audio and AI with local encrypted storage and safeguards against covert recording.
ChatGPT Finances:ChatGPT Finances can connect financial accounts for questions about balances, transactions and spending. Rich still prefers Monarch Money for a traditional dashboard.
Mindtrip flight alerts:Mindtrip monitors airfare based on dates, destinations, budget and preferences, then alerts travelers to meaningful price drops.
Save money on flights: Start tracking early and stay flexible on dates, airports and destinations. The cheapest flight is not always the best overall value.
Google Guided Vision: Gemini Live can describe what a phone camera sees and guide blind or low-vision users to aim the camera correctly.
Job scam warning: Fake recruiters impersonate real companies, offer jobs without legitimate interviews and eventually ask victims to buy equipment with fraudulent checks.
Better antenna reception: Moving an antenna near a window can help, while larger antennas generally perform better when mounted higher and clear of obstructions.
Internet during outages: A UPS battery backup can keep your modem and router running if your provider’s network still has power.
Keep fighting fraud disputes: One listener recovered thousands in unauthorized PayPal transactions after repeatedly disputing the charges and securing his accounts.
NFL has a tool that tells you where you can watch every game called NFL Ways to Watch.
Chandler Hatton of Fairphone will discuss the company’s first phone sold directly in the U.S. and why it is designed to be repairable.
Rich mentioned a Samsung Messages clone beind devleoped by an independent developer called Messages by OzarksMade.
AwareCA is California’s answer to Watch Duty, helping you track wildfires with information directly from CAL FIRE.
Andrew in Ventura wants to know how to delete location suggestions off his iPhone. Two places to go: Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services > Significant Locations & Routes > Clear History … and Apple Maps > Places > Visited Places > Clear History
Ron checked out I Like Movies after hearing about it on the show, but found another movie-tracking app he really likes called Seen It. Rich agrees it’s an excellent option. It works on both iPhone and Android, has no ads, and is completely free. One downside Rich noticed: you can’t sort by star rating or MPAA rating, and there’s no option to create multiple watch lists.
Tyler the Antenna Man will explain how to choose the right over-the-air TV antenna. He mentioned the Philips Rabbit Ears, Channel Master Flatenna, Mornixol outdoor antenna, Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V or Max V, and the 5-Star Yagi antenna.
Peacock raises prices again: Peacock Premium with ads is increasing to $13 a month, Premium Plus to $20 and Peacock Select to $9. Existing subscribers will begin seeing the higher prices after September 17, depending on their billing date.
Protect your hearing at concerts: Joe asks about hearing protection after being seated near extremely loud speakers. Rich recommends high-fidelity concert earplugs such as Vibes or Loop to lower the volume while preserving sound quality.
ChatGPT adds protections for teens: ChatGPT is introducing a teen experience for ages 13 to 17 with stronger safety defaults, study-focused features, parental controls and protections designed to reduce emotional dependence on AI.
How scammers defeat two-factor authentication: Matt asks how criminals can get around 2FA. A common trick is to steal a password, trigger a legitimate authentication code and then impersonate the bank or service to convince the victim to read the code aloud.
Free VPN options: Mike in Ventura wants a good free VPN. Rich recommends Proton VPN and also points to VPN options from Firefox and Opera; for a paid service, Rich likes Surfshark, a newsletter sponsor.
Sticking with Windows 10: David dislikes Windows 11 and wants to keep using Windows 10. Rich warns that unsupported operating systems eventually lose security and software compatibility, but experienced users may still find Windows 10 hardware or reinstall it while accepting those risks.
Fake IRS crypto letters: Scammers are mailing official-looking letters claiming recipients need to enroll in an IRS digital asset compliance portal. The IRS has no such portal, and QR codes in the letters can lead to sites designed to steal personal or cryptocurrency information.
AI is making scams more convincing:Steve Weisman, founder of Scamicide, says AI is helping criminals create polished phishing messages, voice clones and highly personalized scams. His core advice is to distrust unexpected communications and independently verify requests before clicking, downloading or sharing information.
Secure your home router: Weisman recommends changing default router passwords, keeping router software updated and considering newer hardware that receives automatic security updates.
Beware fake customer service numbers: Scammers can manipulate search results or buy ads that display bogus support numbers. Instead of trusting the first search result, find customer service information directly from a company’s official website, app or bill.
Incogni plans compared: Alex asks which Incogni plan to choose. Rich says the higher-tier Unlimited plan adds broader removal coverage, custom removal requests and phone support, making it more comprehensive for people who want maximum data removal.
Building a smart tiki bar: Bob in Beaumont wants thunder, rain, lightning and rumbling effects on demand in his home tiki bar. Rich suggests combining smart lighting, audio automation and Flic buttons to trigger the scene, and also mentions LiquidView digital windows.
Recovering a locked Windows laptop: Milton has been locked out of a laptop for two years and no longer has access to the email address or phone number associated with it. Because the files are important, Rich recommends trying Microsoft account recovery first, then consulting a reputable repair or data-recovery service rather than wiping the computer.
Drone delivery expands rapidly: Amazon says Prime Air will expand from 11 locations to hundreds of cities and towns, while Uber Eats and Zipline are also preparing broader drone delivery. Both are betting that everyday items and food can eventually arrive within minutes.
Police drones become first responders: Flock is expanding beyond license plate cameras with drones that can automatically respond to 911 calls, reach scenes quickly and sometimes determine that an officer does not need to be dispatched.
Medicare phone scam warning: Kathy received an unsolicited call asking whether she had received a new Medicare card. Rich says the unexpected call and abrupt hang-up are warning signs and advises never giving Medicare or personal information to unsolicited callers.
FDA clears a blood-drawing robot: Aletta is a standalone robotic system that uses infrared and ultrasound to locate a vein, insert the needle, collect blood, dispose of the needle and apply a bandage. One professional can oversee multiple machines at once.
Pixel 11 focuses on useful AI:Myriam Joire, host of the Mobile Tech Podcast, joins Rich to discuss Google’s Pixel 11 lineup. Both highlight practical features such as Rambler voice-to-text and Magic Capture, which uses AI to find the best photos and clips from a captured moment.
Who should upgrade to Pixel 11: Joire says Pixel 10 owners probably do not need to upgrade, while Pixel 8 or 9 users have a stronger case. The standard Pixel 11 offers most of the important software features, while serious mobile gamers may prefer phones with faster processors.
Electronics stores still exist: Listeners recommend independent electronics shops including Marvac in Costa Mesa, JK Electronics in Westminster, Armies Electronics in Ohio and Elliott Electronic Supply in Tucson, along with amateur radio “hamfests” for components and equipment.
Fake CAPTCHA attacks can install malware: Kathleen encountered a bogus Cloudflare-style verification page that instructed her to type commands into her computer, resulting in a Trojan infection. Never follow unusual instructions from a CAPTCHA that ask you to run commands or paste code.
Windows Snipping Tool can copy stubborn text: Phil points out that Windows 11’s Snipping Tool can extract text from screenshots and other places where normal copy-and-paste does not work.
Update a full iPhone using a computer: Robert discovered that an iPhone without enough free storage for an iOS update may still be updated through a Mac or Windows PC, avoiding the need to offload apps that might no longer be available.
Hide trackers inside valuable items: Gary recommends concealing AirTags inside luggage, briefcases or shipped packages rather than leaving them somewhere a thief can easily spot and remove.
Leaving an Apple Podcasts review: Jane asks how to review Rich on Tech. On an iPhone, find the show in Apple Podcasts, scroll to Ratings & Reviews, tap “Write a Review” and submit it.
35:08 — Google Maps and YouTube get smarter AI search:Ask Maps can handle highly specific searches for restaurants, hotels, transit and other recommendations, while Ask YouTube can surface information buried inside videos. Rich says these AI-powered searches make it much easier to find specific recommendations without manually sorting through countless results.
38:21 — Sarah in Northridge is overwhelmed by spam email: Rich recommends reporting junk as spam, avoiding unsubscribe links in suspicious messages, disabling automatic image loading and using email aliases such as alias.email or Apple’s Hide My Email. Gmail users can also use Manage Subscriptions to quickly find and remove unwanted legitimate mailing lists.
45:17 — Roger refuses to give up his OBiTALK adapter: Roger has used the discontinued OBiTALK device for years to turn Google Voice into a free home phone line. Despite no longer receiving support or firmware updates, his adapter continues to provide incoming and outgoing calls without a monthly phone bill.
48:13 — Benny shops for his first 3D printer: While shopping at Micro Center, Benny considers an Elegoo printer instead of a Bambu Lab model. Rich says modern 3D printers have become much easier to use, with Bambu helping push the category toward a more consumer-friendly experience.
51:55 — California's DROP privacy system begins deleting personal data: Tom Kemp of the California Privacy Protection Agency says more than 650 data brokers must periodically check DROP requests and delete matching information. The free service is for California residents, uses security measures including hashing, and can help reduce the amount of personal information circulating among data brokers.
55:37 — DROP goes beyond basic contact information: Californians can optionally provide identifiers tied to their phones, vehicles and connected TVs to reach brokers that track location, driving and viewing habits. Kemp says more than 400,000 Californians had signed up, with roughly 15,000 to 20,000 new registrations per day.
1:01:39 — ChatGPT expands free access: ChatGPT is lifting previous text-chat usage limits for free users, while limits still apply to more compute-intensive features such as images and files. Paid users continue to receive access to more capable models and features.
1:03:33 — Faith in Anaheim wants to stop a daily spam caller: Rich walks her through the iPhone settings to block the persistent number. Blocking it should prevent future calls, messages and FaceTime attempts from that contact.
1:09:30 — Samsung's latest foldables feel more mature: After testing the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, Rich says Samsung has hit its stride with thinner, lighter and more practical designs, although prices remain high. The smaller Fold 8 stands out for its wider, more pocketable form factor.
1:11:58 — Rich settles on Evernote and Notion for notes: Evernote remains his choice for professional radio and TV work, while Notion is handling personal information because it works across iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac. Notion AI's ability to search across stored notes is a major advantage.
1:15:02 — Connected AI apps can become a productivity hub: Rich says one of ChatGPT's most useful capabilities is connecting it with services such as Gmail, Google Calendar, Notion, Spotify and other apps. That allows users to search information and complete tasks across multiple services from a single conversation.
1:17:10 — Yvonne in Lake Forest considers an Instagram MP3 player: Rich advises against buying a generic iPod-style player advertised on social media and suggests a genuine refurbished iPod from Retrospekt instead. Either way, existing CDs still need to be ripped to digital files before they can be loaded onto the device.
1:20:56 — Scott in Texas has a mysterious location problem: Multiple Windows computers at his home incorrectly place him at a specific address in Washington, even after changing internet providers and resetting devices. Rich suggests reviewing Windows location and privacy settings but says the unusual case remains unresolved.
1:28:19 — Meta AI glasses provide accessibility benefits: Rich highlights the positive side of Meta’s AI glasses for accessibility, including how blind and low-vision users at the Braille Institute use them to read mail and menus, describe surroundings, translate text and connect with Be My Eyes volunteers. The technology can provide greater independence despite broader privacy concerns surrounding camera-equipped glasses.
1:31:44 — Gig workers are getting paid to train robots: Aaron Bromberg, head of robotics at Instawork, explains that workers can record themselves performing everyday tasks such as folding laundry, washing dishes and mopping floors. Robotics companies use this first-person demonstration data to teach AI-powered robots physical tasks that cannot be learned simply by reading text or watching ordinary videos.
1:37:42 — Robots may reach workplaces before homes: Bromberg expects broader robot deployment to begin in commercial environments such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities, particularly for repetitive tasks. Consumer household robots are also being developed, but widespread adoption is likely further away.
1:39:12 — Bob Ross paintings are coming to LG TVs: LG is adding Bob Ross landscapes to its Gallery Plus art service, while nearly 400 episodes of The Joy of Painting are available through a free Bob Ross streaming channel on LG TVs.
1:40:16 — Listeners share ways to save on wireless and streaming: One listener suggests Connect by T-Mobile as a lower-cost option for customers facing plan increases, while another combines benefits from Amazon Prime, Walmart+, Comcast and T-Mobile to get several streaming services at little additional cost.
1:40:46 — Listeners debate Apple's iPhone leasing model: Some listeners point out that buying out a zero-interest lease can ultimately equal the phone's retail price, while others worry that device rentals push consumers further away from owning their technology outright.
1:42:07 — Voice assistants can accidentally connect callers with scammers: A listener says a senior asked Siri to call a bank, but the assistant dialed an unrelated number and connected them with someone pretending to be legitimate. Rich recommends using the number printed on a bank card or listed on the institution's official website rather than trusting search results or voice assistants for sensitive calls.
1:45:28 — Beware of look-alike apps: A listener thought she downloaded Google's Nano Banana photo tool but instead subscribed to an unrelated app with a similar name. Rich recommends following official links rather than searching an app store for a product name, where imitators can be easy to mistake for the real thing.
1:46:28 — A listener successfully cuts the cord: After switching from cable-style television to streaming, one listener liked the setup enough to help his 80-year-old parents make the same change. The family says the switch has been worthwhile even after upgrading their internet service.
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Adam in Orlando is looking for a motion sensor that can alert him when his father gets out of bed, helping him monitor for possible falls. Rich mentioned solutions from Bellman, Smart Caregiver and even a standard motion sensor or Wyze cam.
Carol in Huntington Beach says her mesh Wi-Fi system is not working as expected. Rich recommended placing the main router and access points in more central locations. She can also test signal strength using Samsung’s hidden Wi-Fi connectivity tool or Ubiquiti’s WiFiman app.
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