GetConnected

With CES 2022 just around he corner, GetConnected contributor Stephen Fun joins Mike and John as they make some predictions about this year's show. We discuss how the rise of Omicron will affect this year's show, from technology giants pulling out of the show to testing requirements for attendees. More importantly, we'll talk about the technology we're most excited to see at the show. Can't get enough of GetConnected and our charmingly nerdy hosts? Subscribe to the GetConnected podcast and don't forget to listen to them discuss mobile technology on the App Show podcast. You can also find us on the web, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Right behind gifts, our finances tend to be top of mind around the holidays. This week, we discuss a technology that's changing the way you manage your money and giving you more power over your financial data. Joining us to explain open banking, Craig Reiff from Mastercard Canada helps us understand in simple terms how this technology has changed the way we borrow, invest, and manage our money. We also discuss how this transition has accelerating during the pandemic. Later in the show, we'll offer more tech holiday gift ideas. We also welcome Todd Cochrane, from Blubrry, to get some expert tips on how to promote your podcast. Can't get enough of GetConnected and our charmingly nerdy hosts? Listen to them discuss mobile technology on the App Show podcast and find us on the web, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

After its first virtual-only event in 2021, the largest consumer technology show, CES, is coming back with an in-person event in 2022. Steve Koenig from the Consumer Technology Association joins us this week to discuss the technology trends we can expect to see at CES 2022. We discuss space tech and the evolution of the Internet of Things to the Intelligence of Things. We'll also discuss how the pandemic has encouraged innovation in health tech. We also continue our holiday gift guide, this week with best TVs and smart streaming devices of the year.

With the second pandemic holiday season just around the corner, you might be finding it difficult to get inspired with gifts ideas for loved ones. As always, we're here to remind you that tech gifts are always a good idea! This week, we look at the year's best smart speakers. Take advantage of the digital assistant wars and get great deals on these speakers this holiday season. Earlier in the show, we're joined by Kevin O'Brien, President and General Manager at WW (formerly Weight Watchers) to discuss the company's award winning app, PersonalPoints. Find out how this app's innovative algorithm can help you get the most out of your wellness journey.

Electric vehicle start-up Rivian has gone public at $100 billion, but is this valuation justifiable? Tech expert Ted Kritsonis joins us to explore what's behind Rivian's valuation. Will the company outpace other EV manufacturers when it comes to innovation? Will it be a disruptor in an industry already occupied by innovation heavy-weights like Elon Musk's Tesla? We'll offer our thoughts.

With Black Friday just around the corner, we're here to help you find the best deals on tech gadgets. Find out what hosts Mike and John are shopping for on Black Friday this year and the tools they use to find the best sales and offers. We also discuss our favourite technology retailers and what they're offering for Black Friday this year. Don't forget to tune into next week's show for some great Cyber Monday deals, too!

Looking for a way to breathe new life into an older Windows device? This week, we share how you can upgrade it to Windows 11 even if your device isn't supported. With a simple workaround, you can install the new Windows 11 operating system and give your older device a performance boost. Later in the show, we talk about how you can save thousands on your home electric vehicle charging setup installation with an innovative new device from NeoCharge

Crypto or Bitcoin mining is becoming increasingly energy-hungry, driving crypto miners to steal electricity. As Hydro-Quebec cracks down on electricity theft and fraud for cryptocurrency mining, we welcome tech expert Graye Williams to discuss why mining consumes so much electricity. Later in the show, we speak with Canadian creator Ryan Savin of Little King Goods about how he makes money on YouTube.

This week, GetConnected is LIVE from Budapest. As we travel Europe to learn about new technology, we're joined by fellow tech expert Ted Kritsonis to discuss why music quality has declined in the digital age. From music streaming services to Bluetooth technology, we explore all the reasons we don't get high quality audio anymore. Later in the show, we talk about how electric vehicle charging is different in Europe.

This past week, Apple hosted its "Unleashed" event, likely the last for 2021. In this episode, we recap the biggest announcements from the event, including the redesigned MacBooks and the latest AirPods. We share our initial reactions about all the latest technology the tech giant unveiled.

Google has announced that it will automatically enrol 150 million users in two-factor authentication by the end of 2021, but many users still don't understand how it works. To help you prepare, we discuss how two-factor authentication works and why you need to understand it before Google makes this change. Later in the show, we welcome Gerry Barnaby from EGO to learn about how their Nexus Power Station replaces traditional gas power generators to deliver clean, quiet, portable power. A game changer, this power station is the ideal way to keep your essentials powered during power outages.

Appearing before a senate hearing this past week, former Facebook data scientist, Frances Haugen, presents evidence that the social network's algorithm promotes divisive and inflammatory content. Social media expert Rebecca Bolwitt joins us to discuss how the way these algorithms work affect users. We also discuss the implications for the future of social networks. Earlier in the show, we speak with Pilvi Carman from Cricut to learn how the company's innovative technology is taking crafting to a new level of fun.

This week, Amazon had its fall device event, launching an overwhelming number of new tech devices. Join us as we discuss the technology with Toronto tech expert, Ted Kritsonis. From a home robot with a screen, called Astro, to a security drone that works with your Ring system, we cover the highlights from the event and share our initial impressions.

Many social media platforms are developing ways to help content creators make some money and recently, Twitter joined their ranks. Cam Gordon, Head of Communications for Twitter Canada, joins us this week to discuss how the popular social network is working to help you monetize your tweets with its new tip jar and super follow features. Learn about these new features and more important updates to Twitter.

As digital vaccine passports become a reality in several provinces across Canada, OpenTable is making it easier for restaurants to verify vaccination status for patrons. Matt Davis, Canada Country Manager for OpenTable, joins Mike and John to discuss how this new verification component works. Matt shares how OpenTable uses technology to create a seamless experience for diners and restaurants, becoming more than just a reservation platform.

Every year, the James Dyson awards promote and encourage innovation in design, recognizing young designers and inventors for their problem-solving ideas. We speak with this year's Canada award winner and two runners up about their ingenious inventions. From a mechanical assistive device for people with limited hand mobility to an AI-powered system that identifies and prevents soil erosion in agriculture to a non-toxic fire retardant that keeps people safe without long-term health impacts, we learn what it takes to come up with innovative technologies that solve big problems.

Over the past year, there have been some troubling incidents with Chevy Bolt electric cars. Now, General Motors has recalled every Chevy Bolt vehicle. Joining us this week, our contributor Stephen Fung, tells us about the experience of owning one of these vehicles as the situation has developed. We also discuss how the recall might affect the perception of electric vehicles.

This week, the US International Trade Commission ruled that Google infringed on five smart speaker patents belonging to audio pioneer, Sonos. We discuss what this means for Sonos and Google. We also make some predictions on the future outcome of this David vs. Goliath legal battle. Will Google face import bans on its smart speakers?

With back-to-school right around the corner, we talk about the technology essentials students at all levels will need to navigate a post-pandemic world. Toronto-based tech expert Marc Saltzman joins us as we discuss the right tech tools that will help students tackle the year successfully whether they're heading back to the classroom, continuing remote learning, or doing a bit of both.

Ever wonder how Facebook selects the ads it displays in your newsfeed? Sometimes those ads can feel invasive or simply irrelevant. This week, we look at one important change in your privacy settings on the popular social network that will give you more control over the ads you see.

As the new Anthony Bourdain documentary hit screens, we learned that artificial intelligence was used to recreate the late celebrity chef's voice. We discus how using AI technology to create deepfakes like this one is moving into mainstream filmmaking and explore the implications. Is simulating Bourdain's voice in this way ethical, especially in a documentary? Igor Bonifacic from Mobile Syrup joins us to discuss.

Tesla has been the one to watch when it comes to electric vehicles, but traditional automakers are working to catch up. Tech expert and EV enthusiast Ted Kritsonis joins Mike and John to discuss the latest electric vehicle announcements. In this discussion, we look at the technology behind some of the most anticipated features and examine the future of EVs.

As countries continue to work through the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination rates rise, questions are emerging about whether digital vaccine passports could be an effective way to manage the pandemic moving forward. Kerry Bowman, a bioethicist from the University of Toronto joins us to discuss the ethical and practical implications of digital vaccine passports. Looking at vaccine passports on the international and the national level, we explore questions of freedom of movement and how verification might work from a practical perspective.

Since the first recreational traveler landed on the International Space Station (ISS) in 2001, space tourism has been a hot topic. But are we really getting closer to making it a reality? More importantly, will it become affordable? Vancouver technology expert Peter Vogel joins us as we examine the current state of space tourism and discuss what the future holds for companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin.

How much sensitive information are you giving away unknowingly on social media? You might be surprised to find out that those quizzes, polls, and even image apps on Facebook and other social networks are leaving you vulnerable to hacks and identity theft. Tech expert, Carmi Levy, joins us as we discuss common social media privacy traps and how you can protect yourself.

The year's biggest gaming event, E3, went all digital this year, but that didn't dampen the excitement it created in the gaming community. Veteran gamer and gaming industry expert, Victor Lucas, joins Mike and John to discuss the evolution of gaming and to recap what we learned about its future from this year's event. Will streaming sticks be the future of gaming? And what will be the most anticipated video games of 2021?

This past week, Apple held its annual World Developer's Conference announcing updates to its popular operating systems and software. We recap the most important updates to MacOS and discuss how Apple is going all in on privacy with updates to protect your information from online advertisers. Later in the program, Mike and John help you show your appreciation for Dad with our Father's Day tech gift guide.

This year, Apple is hosting its big Worldwide Developer's Conference, or WWDC, online only. The first of its kind, the event will feature the latest product announcements from the tech giant. This week, Mike and John discuss the big announcements they expect about the MacBook line, iOS, and MacOS.

With the sudden move to working from home, many organizations found themselves unprepared from a cybersecurity standpoint. Michael Howard,Global Security Practice Lead at HP, joins us to share some statistics on cybersecurity during the pandemic. He also shares his insight on how organizations can protect themselves as employees continue to work from home.

In 1996, the Internet Archive began to create a record of the Internet itself, archiving and preserving all the content published online. Since then, the non-profit organization has been on a mission to make knowledge universally accessible by digitizing and archiving every type of content: newspapers, books, audio recordings, videos, images and even software programs. Brewster Kahle, founder of the Internet Archive, joins Mike and John in a lively discussion about how it all began and why creating this archive is so important.

In the face of a global pandemic, we've had the unique opportunity to explore and develop a deeper familiarity with our local surroundings. Now, Facebook wants to help you connect with your neighbours and local community with Facebook Neighbourhoods. Mike and John discuss how this new feature works and how it competes with hyperlocal social networking app, Nextdoor.

It's not too late to find the perfect gift for Mom! Mike and John share their last minute tech gift ideas. Later in the show, they talk to one woman about her journey to discover her ethnic roots using DNA technology and Ancestry DNA.

Monstercat, a disruptive Vancouver record label, has given Electronic music artist's the tools to live sustainably since 2011. Monstercat CEO, Mike Darlington, joins Mike and John to discuss how the company has innovated with artists in mind through the pandemic, and how they're getting in on the NFT trend. Later in the show, we explore the latest fitness technology, including the hottest fitness trackers. Are you ready to get in shape?

Renewable energy and finding ways to harness it is more important than ever as we find ourselves falling deeper into a climate crisis. In honour of Earth Day this week, we learned about a Canadian company that's bringing solar power technology to homes. Danial Hadizadeh, CEO of Mitrex, joins Mike and John to discuss this promising new technology and how it makes it possible to harness renewable energy for residential homes.

Like most things, art is evolving thanks to technology. Mike and John explore this evolution with Douglas Coupland, an accomplished Canadian author and artist. Discussing everything from writing to digital art and NFTs, Douglas offers a unique look into the new opportunities technology has created for artists over the years and how it continues to change the process of creating art.

What are dark patterns online and how did the Trump campaign use them to trick supporters into donating millions more than they intended? Mike and John explain how to recognize when websites and other user interfaces have been engineered to trick or manipulate you into making choices you typically wouldn't. Most importantly, we discuss how to protect yourself from falling victim to dark patterns, even on seemingly trustworthy websites.

Heard of Twitch but still not sure what it is? And how are streamers making money on this platform? Mike and John speak with popular Twitch Streamer, Barnacules, to demystify Twitch and learn how you can make money on the platform. Spoiler alert: the platform is no longer just for gamers.

Technology continues to create new opportunities across industries and the art world is no exception. With NFTs fuelling a crypto art boom, it's the perfect time for artists to embrace this new trend. Mike and John discuss how artists can create and mint their own NFTs by validating their information on the blockchain. Sound complicated? Not to worry, we'll demystify the process.

NFTs are continuing to take the Internet by storm. We explain what they are, how they work, and how you can invest in them. We a discuss the environmental impact, which is bigger than you'd expect. We also speak with the CEO of a new startup revolutionizing the way electric vehicles, or EVs, are charged in the San Francisco Bay Area.

The world is facing a computer chip shortage, dubbed Chipaggedon, that threatens the production of many popular consumer technology products. Melissa Chee, President and CEO of ventureLAB joins us to discuss how her company plans to help strengthen Canada's domestic hardware industry, instead of relying on imported chips. Don't forget to tune into next week's show when we learn about an innovative new approach to charging electric vehicles that can save drivers time.

Looking for a new lockdown DIY project? The GetConnected team recently built a high-end custom gaming PC right in our studio. This week, our resident PC build expert joins us on the show to to discuss the build and what you need to know about building your own. Later in the show, we learn about cryptoart and why it's all the rage with investors, like Mark Cuban.

The satellite technology behind Elon Musks Starlink internet service is cool, and it's bringing high-speed internet to users in remote areas in Canada and other parts of the world. But how does the service measure up for real users? Could it be the answer to bringing internet to every corner of the globe? Mike and John speak with one Canadian about his experience with the new broadband internet service.

As we look to the light at the end of the tunnel of the pandemic, we'll continue to see new challenges and opportunities for both employees and employers. Looking beyond 2021, we'll likely see a move toward a hybrid work model where employees spend more time working remotely than they did before the pandemic, while still meeting in person from time to time. Speaking with Ed Rodriguez, General Manager for Canada of Citrix, makers of software solutions that enable enable remote and hybrid work models, we discuss how technology will support the new hybrid work model.

As pandemic restrictions stretch on, many of us are working to build new workout routines. Aaron Fader, CEO of TUT Fitness joins Mike and John this week to introduce the company's revolutionary fitness tech, the TUT Trainer and TUT Rower. Developed in Canada, these devices offer an affordable full body workout at home with high intensity interval training (HIIT), resistance training, and time under tension training. Find out how TUT can change your home work outs and what the future holds for this innovative Canadian company as they take on giants in this space, like Peloton. Later in the show, we explore the the future of contactless payments with Mastercard.

Almost a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have found ways to cope with restrictions and social isolation with the help of technology. In this episode of the GetConnected podcast, Dr. Ron Baecker, Professor Emeritus in Computer Science at the University of Toronto, joins us to discuss his new e-book "The COVID-19 Solutions Guide." He shares unique tips and insights for coping with life in the COVID era. Later in the show, Mike and John open up the mailbag and answer your tech questions!

As Facebook faces more legal trouble from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), we explore the effects of monopolies on innovation. Joining Mike and John, Dr. Mahdiyeh Entezarkheir, Associate Professor of Economics at Western Ontario University, shares some surprising research that might make you look at monopolies in a whole new light. Also in the show, John talks about his new favourite tech gadget.

This week, Mike and John recap their CES experience. They discuss what worked and what didn't at the first-ever virtual Consumer Electronics Show. Later in the show we look at how you can get free over-the-air TV using an HD antenna. Ted Kritsonis joins us to talk about the Tablo HD antenna.

This week, we're unpacking our experience at CES 2021, the first-ever virtual Consumer Electronics Show. Although we're not attending the show in person this year, we're bringing you the hottest tech gadgets from the virtual show floor. Find out what we saw and what we're most excited about from household robots to rolling screens to a single-serve ice cream machine that uses recyclable pods. Don't miss next week's show for more CES 2021 coverage.

The annual Consumer Electronics Show starts on Monday but this year, it's going virtual! As one of the biggest technology trade shows in the world, CES has been brought together hundred of thousands of show attendees annually for over two decades. Steve Koenig, VP Research of the Consumer Technology Association, gives us an in-depth preview at how this year's event will deliver all of the tech without any of the germs. Don't forget to tune in next week to hear all about the show and the most promising tech of 2021.

By 2024, NASA will launch the Artemis mission to explore more of the surface of the moon than ever before. On this week's show, we speak with NASA rocket scientist, Derek Dalle, about what it takes to execute a launch like this. Discussing the complex computing required to simulate every step of the mission, Derek tells us about how NASA is engineers are preparing for a safe and successful spaceflight that will land two astronauts on the moon's South Pole, which we know to have water. Earlier in the show, we welcome a UBC engineering professor to discuss how blockchain technology can help us distribute the COVID-19 vaccine safely given its strict temperature requirements.