MacVoices

At CES 2026, a live demonstration shows how Emoitii enables real-time multilingual conversations without shared languages. Head of Delivery & Operations Lucia Popa explains how, using AI interpretation rather than literal translation, participants speak different languages while understanding each other naturally. The platform supports calls, text, business integrations, APIs, and live conferencing, adapting tone and vocabulary based on context and background to improve the interaction. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26043.mp3 Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

In Eureka Park at CES 2026, Prolo Ring showed off a smart ring that replaces many mouse and keyboard functions using touch gestures. Dr. Joey Cheng demonstrated how Prolo Ring supports cursor control, navigation, media playback, and custom macros through multiple gesture modes. Compatible across platforms via Bluetooth HID, it requires no drivers and can control multiple devices. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The MacVoices Live! panel looks at Apple's decision to partner with Google's Gemini models as part of its upcoming AI strategy, considering privacy, control, and execution timelines among the factors. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Norbert Frassa, Marty Jencius, and Jim Rea debate whether this move strengthens Apple Intelligence while preserving on-device and private cloud safeguards, and contrast it with Microsoft's all-in Copilot approach, which lacks an off switch and gives users no choices. MacVoices is supported by Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/MACVOICES to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using offer code MACVOICES. MacVoices is supported by Hello Fresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/macvoice10fm to gett 10 free meals + a FREE ZwillingKnife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Show Notes: Chapters: • 00:11 – Apple and Google announce Gemini partnership • 02:04 – Privacy concerns and Apple's gatekeeping role • 03:37 – Using Gemini models without surrendering control • 06:16 – Meeting the next-generation Siri deadline • 10:06 – OpenAI, Google, and changing AI leadership • 15:14 – Microsoft Copilot and the lack of an off switch Links: Apple picks Google's Gemini AI for its big Siri upgrade https://www.theverge.com/news/860521/apple-siri-google-gemini-ai-personalization Satya Nadella wants the internet to keep an open mind about AI. The internet isn't having it https://www.fastcompany.com/91471196/satya-nadella-microsoft-microslop-ai Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Norbert Frassa is a technology "man about town". Follow him on Twitter and see what he's up to. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy th

From Las Vegas and CES 2026, Swapnil Vats, Product and Business Head for Luna Ring covers the feature set of their smart health ring that is designed to work alongside Apple Watch or on its own. The titanium Luna Ring tracks biometrics like heart rate, sleep, stress, and workouts, then adds context through voice-logged lifestyle inputs such as caffeine, meals, and anxiety. AI-driven analysis then delivers personalized wellness insights without subscription fees. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The January 2026 MacVoices Update recaps a busy start to the year, including attending and releasing interviews from CES and necessary schedule adjustments.. Chuck touches on the why's and how's of who was interviewed, referencing a MacVoices Blog post He also explains changes to Patreon subscriptions driven by Apple's new system and how it does and doesn't affect patrons, and delivers the monthly Support Report. Show Notes: Links: MacVoices on Patreon CES: Why we interview who we interview on The MacVoices log Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner return after a holiday break to discuss Chuck's CES impressions, evolving TV hardware, and the viewing experience around Apple TV. They discuss smart TV interfaces, discoverability challenges, and why software now matters as much (if not more) as display quality. They look at both upcoming and canceled Apple TV shows, and pick some favorites among both new and returning series. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and CES recap 00:53 CES atmosphere and TV trends 02:28 Choosing a TV in 2026 05:19 Apple TV app and interface debate 09:54 New and upcoming Apple TV shows 13:09 Cancellations and content strategy 17:47 Shows to watch and recommendations 21:09 Anticipated releases in 2026 28:41 Wrap-up and looking ahead Guests: Charlotte Henry is a media junkie, covering how Apple is not just a revolutionary tech firm, but a revolutionary media firm. She is based in London, writes and broadcasts for various outlets, and is the author of Not Buying It, an examination of fake news. You can find her on her The Addition blog, her podcast, in her The Addition newsletter on substack, and on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss l

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Appscent Medical's non-invasive sleep device that uses pleasant scent bursts to trigger a sniff reflex and restart breathing during sleep apnea events was explained by Yosi (Joseph) Azulay, Co-Founder and CEO. A radar sensor tracks respiration, an AI rotates natural scents, and a daytime biofeedback mode guides calmer nasal breathing. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At CES in Las Vegas,Meredith Perry, Co-Founder and CEO, and Dr. David Wang, Co-Founder and CTO of Elemind talk about how their wearable sleep headband uses real-time brainwave monitoring and precisely timed acoustic stimulation to help users fall asleep faster. By "noise-canceling" wakeful brainwaves, the device calms racing thoughts without drugs. Chuck had a chance to try it out and discusses his positive experience in spite of a noisy, distracting environment. Show Notes: Chapters: • [0:03] Introduction to EleMind and CES demo • [0:40] How acoustic neuromodulation works • [1:20] The neuroscience behind falling asleep faster • [2:27] First-hand sleep experience and impressions • [4:46] Clinical validation and future applications • [7:22] Why sleep is foundational to overall health • [8:03] Pricing, availability, and closing thoughts Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

On the CES 2026 show floor, Antigravity CEO Michael Shabun talks about what makes their 8K 360 degree drone different than any other drone on the market. Chuck had some time in the flying cage and talked to Michael about his surprises with the 360-degree viewing. Michael explains how the drone, Grip controller, and Vision Goggles create a "become the camera" experience, combining traditional stability with FPV creativity. They discuss both personal and commercial applications that become possible with the Antigravity's feature set. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:03 Introduction and first impressions 01:09 What makes the A1 different 01:27 360 capture, "invisible" drone, goggles and Grip 02:43 Looking around freely while flying 03:12 Traditional vs FPV and lower barrier to entry 04:12 SkyPath autonomous routes and repeatable flights 05:32 Commercial applications and under-250g design 06:03 Battery life, pricing, and premium positioning 06:50 Relationship to Insta360 technology 07:53 Where to try it and learn more Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From Pepcom at CES 2026, Andrew Green, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer for Twelve South, gives us a tour of their latest offerings that are both functional and stylish. r visits the 12 South booth to explore new and updated accessories. Highlights include the a wall-mounted MagSafe charger, new stands for iPhone and iPad that enable flexible workstation setups at home or on the go, the AirFly Pro 2 Bluetooth transmitter for in-flight audio, and a new leather Valet tray that discreetly integrates wireless charging into a stylish home accessory. Show Notes: Links: Twelve South PowerBug Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Charger & 35W USB-C Hub https://amzn.to/4t5LNmN Twelve South Curve Nano MagSafe Stand - Compact Magnetic Phone Stand for Desk - Qi2 Compatible, Fold-Flat Design https://amzn.to/3M0cZ5V Twelve South Curve Mini - Foldable, Adjustable Tablet Stand for Desk - Premium Aluminum iPad/Tablet Holder with Multi-Angle Hinge https://amzn.to/4rnMgzl AirFly Pro 2 – Bluetooth Adapter, Pair 2 AirPods or Wireless Headphones https://amzn.to/4bXx4Ek Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Our CES highlights wrap with some standout demos, including earbuds that dramatically isolate speech from loud background noise and, a tiny NFC-powered, app-configurable two-button accessory for triggering shortcuts. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Norbert Frassa, Marty Jencius, and Jim Rea also examine Apple's new Creator Studio bundle, what features may be paywalled, and how it stacks up against Adobe and Affinity. The discussion finishes up with the panel's thoughts on Apple Card's move to JPMorgan Chase. MacVoices is supported by Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/MACVOICES to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using offer code MACVOICES. MacVoices is supported by Hello Fresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/macvoice10fm to gett 10 free meals + a FREE ZwillingKnife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:10 VoiceBuds demo and extreme noise cancellation 03:38 Solver accessory and programmable buttons 08:17 Other show highlights and practical innovations 12:05 CES interview coverage preview 16:21 Apple Creator Studio bundle overview 17:49 Competition with Adobe and Affinity 30:17 Apple services momentum and strategy 33:31 Apple Card transition to JPMorgan Chase Links: Subtle Computing Voicebuds https://www.subtle.co Solver AI https://solvertouch.com Apple introduces Apple Creator Studio, an inspiring collection of the most powerful creative apps https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/01/introducing-apple-creator-studio-an-inspiring-collection-of-creative-apps/ Apple Card Will Move From Goldman Sachs to JPMorgan Chase https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/07/jpmorgan-chase-apple-card-takeover/ Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Norbert Frassa is a technology "man about town". Follow him on Twitter and see what he's up to. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and othe

From Pepcom at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Paul Tan, COO for Keychron, about the new Q Ultra Series keyboards, their best yet. Highlights include an 8K wireless polling rate with ultra-low latency, exceptional battery life measured in months, a premium CNC-milled aluminum build, upgraded switches, and browser-based configuration that eliminates software downloads that allow for deep customization. Show Notes: Chapters: Links: Guests: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From Pepcom at CES 2026, Ty Wayman, Brand Manager for ESR, explained how their MagSlim 25W Qi 2.2 magnetic power bank addresses the heating issues associated with the higher power with cryo-boost that actively cool phones for faster wireless charging. The include a versatile three-in-one chargers for iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, and a Geo Wallet with built-in Find My support. Show Notes: LInks: ESR 3 in 1 Charging Station for Apple, Qi2.2 25W MagSafe Charger with CryoBoost https://amzn.to/45EEj0e ESR Geo for MagSafe Wallet with Full Find My Functionality, 5-Card Holder, RFID Blocking, Adjustable Stand, Magnetic Wallet for iPhone https://amzn.to/4qFJt4o Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At Pepcom at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, we heard about the latest and greatest home security hardware from Brett White, Global Public Relations Lead for Eufy. Highlights include a SmartLock with facial recognition, a 180-degree panoramic video doorbell, a solar-powered wall light camera with adjustable panels, and a slim SmartTrack accessory. We review Matter support, battery life, ease of installation, pricing, and availability for the devices to make your home more secure. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From Pepcom at CES 2026, Satechi Product Manager Manny Garcia describes the features of the company's most powerful docking station yet, built around Thunderbolt 5. Despite its compact size, the dock delivers up to 120Gbps bandwidth, supports 8K displays, provides up to 140W of host power, and includes a built-in SSD enclosure for storage expansion without sacrificing ports. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From Pepcom at CES 2026, Ben Stainlay, Head of Product for Strapsicle, shows off an innovative iPad case designed to make holding and using an iPad easier and safer. Inspired by a real-world family accident, the product integrates adjustable hand straps into the case to improve comfort, reduce fatigue, and prevent drops. The discussion covers accessibility benefits, thoughtful design details, build quality, use cases, pricing, and availability. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From Pepcom at CES 2026, Esteban Rojas of Ottocast explains how their products expand in-car display capabilities beyond traditional CarPlay. Ottocast introduces camera and dongle solutions that enable split-screen viewing, rear-seat monitoring, multiple user profiles, and standalone navigation. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From CES 2026 in Las Vegas at Pepcom, Alex Levine, CEO and Co-Founder of Xebec, talks about their new Tri-Screen 3 portable monitor system. The updated design features larger 13.3-inch displays, a rugged aluminum build, and a single-cable connection for both Windows and Mac laptops. With improved stability for laptop use, fast deployment, and travel-ready durability, Tri-Screen 3 solves the multi-screen deficiency suffered by so many business travelers. Show Notes: Links: Xebec Tri-Screen 3 Laptop Screen Extender | Portable Monitor for Laptops 13″-18″ | Two 13.3 Inch Displays via One USB-C Cable | Plug and Play | Travel Case Included https://amzn.to/3M8w2Ll Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The first live show of 2026 kicks off with CES reflections, a quick scam warning about fake Instagram reset emails, and highlights from the show floor. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Norbert Frassa, Marty Jencius, and Jim Rea discuss into LEGO's new NFC "smart bricks" and why they won't kill creativity. Chuck also shares impressions of Xreal display glasses as a travel-friendly "monitor," then Norbert and Chuck talk about the 360° Antigravity drone demo. MacVoices is supported by Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/MACVOICES to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using offer code MACVOICES. MacVoices is supported by Hello Fresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/macvoice10fm to gett 10 free meals + a FREE ZwillingKnife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Show open and topics preview [0:10] Sponsor mentions [0:38] Welcome back / first show of 2026 [5:35] PSA: fake Instagram reset scam [7:42] CES recap setup and context [8:10] LEGO "smart bricks" explained (NFC, Star Wars kits) [10:13] Backlash and why LEGO isn't "abandoning" classic building [13:54] Engadget livestream kerfuffle and discussion [14:46] Mindstorms comparison and future "programming" possibilities [22:37] Xreal glasses impressions vs. Vision Pro [27:20] Anti-Gravity 360° drone goggle experience [31:30] Visual observer requirement and goggles details [34:23] Wrap-up Links: PSA: Reminder: Ignore Instagram password reset messages if you didn't request one https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/01/12/reminder-ignore-instagram-password-reset-messages-if-you-didnt-request-one CES and related discussion: LEGO Says Smart Brick Is 'Here to Stay,' and Responds to 'Questions and Concerns' Around Abandoning Non-Digital Play https://www.ign.com/articles/lego-says-smart-brick-is-here-to-stay-and-responds-to-questions-and-concerns-around-abandoning-non-digital-play XREAL Glasses https://amzn.to/4bC5gFk Antigravity Drone https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Norbert Frassa is a technology "man about town". Follow him on Twitter and see what he's up to. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Appl

From Pepcom at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Chuck talks with Stephon Narbury about Chamelo's electronically tint-changing eyewear. The glasses and ski goggles shift from clear to dark in a fraction of a second, reducing glare and fog while adapting to changing light. Battery-powered for all-day use, the lineup also includes blue-light blocking and prismatic options aimed at sports and everyday wear. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26024.mp3 Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At CES 2026 Pepcom, Rescue Retriever introduces a pet safety system designed to help firefighters locate and save animals during house fires. Ryan Tussing and Rusty Tussing (Founder and CEO respectively) explain how the system combines a reflective window decal, a silent strobing smoke detector placed near where pets hide, and a collar-mounted FireTag (that also can hold an AirTag). Together, they guide first responders and even neighbors directly to pets in smoke-filled emergency situations. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At Pepcom during CES 2026, ShiftCam unveils a new ProRig system with more mounting points, stability, and a redesigned filter lineup for better cinematography. Founder and CEO Benson KL Chiu explains how their company is working to make mobile creation even better with options such as their Explore lens kits, including telephoto and macro options and Plank, a phone-first SSD line built for high-bandwidth ProRes shooting. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From Pepcom at CES in Las Vegas, Chris McCloud of Scoche provides a quick tour of their new charging and mobility accessories. Highlights include a 25W MagicMount wireless charger, multi-device PowerVolt chargers, the Found It tracking line with RFID protection, and new colorful GoBat power banks with built-in plugs and readouts. Show Notes: Links: Scosche MagicMount Charge Pro Qi2 Home/Office MagSafe Suction Mount https://amzn.to/3Nz1frv Scosche PowerFlux 45W USB-C Wall Charger Block with 8ft USB-C Fast Charging Cable, Foldable Plug https://amzn.to/4pTsOsU Scosche PowerFlux 50W Fast Charging Dual USB-C GaN Wall Charger Block with Power Sharing & Foldable Plug https://amzn.to/4qExGn3 Scosche PowerFlux 70W USB-C Charger Block, 3-Port Fast Charging GaN Wall Adapter with Foldable Plug https://amzn.to/3YW1y1W Scosche FoundIT Charge 32W Car Charger, Multi-Port Cigarette Lighter Adapter with 20W USB-C Fast Charging & 12W USB-A Port, Built-in Locator Compatible with Apple Find My & Android Find Hub https://amzn.to/3NH9hOX Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The MacVoices Live! panel discusses how artificial intelligence has shifted from a destination into an invisible layer within everyday software. Rather than visiting separate tools, AI is now embedded in operating systems and apps, increasingly becoming a natural part of workflows. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Jeff Gamet, Mark Fuccio and Jim Rea explore how this mirrors earlier machine-learning adoption and raises questions about awareness, dependence, and long-term impact. The Antigravity A1 is the world's first 8K 360 drone, it's genuinely a game-changer. You get full immersive flight with the goggles, insanely intuitive controls, and endless creative freedom in editing.If you're thinking about buying a drone, make it this one. Check out the link in our show notes and get a free landing pad with your order! https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Take your personal data back with Incogni! Get 60% off an annual plan at https://incogni.com/chuck and use code chuck at checkout. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 – AI moving from destination to built-in feature 01:30 – Everyday workflows and slicker AI interfaces 03:22 – Machine learning parallels and invisible automation 04:12 – Ubiquitous AI and "fructose in everything" analogy 06:05 – "AI slop" and low-value content inflation 07:47 – Tech learning phases: fonts, flash, social media 10:00 – AI investment, GPUs, and Apple's compute angle 14:35 – Ongoing tech lawsuit discussion 17:41 – Social media fragmentation and finding businesses 20:21 – Aggregation tools to manage splintered platforms Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a s

From Pepcom at CES in Las Vegas, Hans Dose, founder of Stuff Manufacturing, shares how tariffs pushed him to open a U.S.-based silicone factory. Hans how using silicone results in faster production cycles, lower tooling costs, and better IP protection. Hans shows off a new patented MagSafe accessory and explains how his factory will support other brands with domestic manufacturing. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From a CES showcase, Wyzly Founder and CEO Adam Adler gives us an introduction to their iOS app that lets children earn screen time by completing educational questions. Designed to reduce parent-child conflict, Wyzly combines learning, motivation, and customizable parental controls in an approachable, easy-to-administrate package. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, Stella Hall, Head of Americas Marketing for Plaud, talks about the rise of AI note-taking and the features of the NotePin S, their newest product. Stella explains how the device captures conversations on demand, highlights key moments, and quickly delivers structured summaries. The discussion also addresses privacy safeguards, encryption, compliance standards, and growing interest from many different user categories, particularly journalists, doctors, and sales professionals. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26017.mp3 Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

New York's proposed warning labels for social media was the topic of a discussion questioning whether lawmakers understand the real drivers of addiction and the privacy cost of age verification. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Jeff Gamet, Mark Fuccio and Jim Rea also cover shifts to "brain gear" wearables and the risks of sensitive data leaving the device. The group praises the M4 Mac mini for outsized performance, value, and flexibility—especially for multi-monitor setups as one of the highlights of 2025. The Antigravity A1 is the world's first 8K 360 drone, it's genuinely a game-changer. You get full immersive flight with the goggles, insanely intuitive controls, and endless creative freedom in editing.If you're thinking about buying a drone, make it this one. Check out the link in our show notes and get a free landing pad with your order! https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Take your personal data back with Incogni! Get 60% off an annual plan at https://incogni.com/chuck and use code chuck at checkout. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 – Opening and topic roundup 00:10 – NY social media warning labels and effectiveness 02:30 – VPN workarounds, enforcement, and "nanny net" concerns 06:11 – Addiction mechanics and targeting the real problem 09:21 – Age verification, minors, and unintended consequences 16:04 – Anonymity tradeoffs and privacy risks 20:45 – Brain wearables, accessibility, and on-device processing 30:12 – M4 Mac mini impact and price-to-performance discussion 37:49 – Ports, expandability, and multi-monitor realities 39:13 – Wrap-up and recommendations Links: New York State will require warning labels on social media platforms https://www.engadget.com/social-media/new-york-state-will-require-warning-labels-on-social-media-platforms-210306716.html Brain Gear Is the Hot New Wearable https://www.wired.com/story/expired-tired-wired-wearables/ Review: M4 and M4 Pro Mac minis are probably Apple's best Mac minis ever https://arstechnica.com/apple/2024/11/review-m4-and-m4-pro-mac-minis-are-probably-apples-best-mac-minis-ever/ Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is c

At CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, Jessica Bay introduces MAILVISTA, a digital assistant designed to tame email overload. Jessica explains how the service organizes, prioritizes, and summarizes messages to highlight what truly matters. The discussion covers privacy safeguards, personalization through context and learning, current support for Gmail and Outlook, and an objective of reducing email stress. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

A CES Unveiled interview with Thomas Guesdon, COO for Skyted, provided an update on their headset that is designed to enable quiet, confidential conversations in crowded spaces such as in a plane, introduces a new app that visualizes how far a user's voice travels, and discusses a major aerospace partnership. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From CES Unveiled, a conversation with Naqi Logix' Head of AI Dr. Rodney Sappington introduces a set of earbuds designed to give users hands-free control of computers, tablets, and smart devices. He explains explores how subtle finger and hand movements translate into precise commands, accessibility and productivity use cases, and how Naqi'Logix' technology can complement traditional input methods in mobile, professional, and assistive scenarios. Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, Targus' Vice President, Global Marketing & Ecommerce Andrew Corkill shows off a modular, expandable backpack designed for business trave for more than just tech, new portable docking stations that enable multi-display workflows on the road. Then, Gabi Iorio, Director of Global Marketing and Sales for Hyper, gave us a look at their award-winning Hyper enclosure that upgrades storage, speed, and even AI capabilities without replacing a laptop. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26012.mp3 Show Notes: Links: HyperDrive Next USB4 M.2 PCIe Enclosure https://amzn.to/4pN94aw Targus backpacks on Amazon https://amzn.to/4pSY77f Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

An evaluation of the performance of major Apple product categories over the past year is reviewed by the panel of Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Jeff Gamet, Mark Fuccio and Jim Rea, drawing on market data to assess claims of category leadership across iPhone, iPad, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Mac. The panel examines the impact of Apple silicon on Mac sales, contrasts Ford's renewed support for CarPlay with GM's strategy, and recognize a validation of this and past discussions from a noted Apple commentator. The Antigravity A1 is the world's first 8K 360 drone, it's genuinely a game-changer. You get full immersive flight with the goggles, insanely intuitive controls, and endless creative freedom in editing.If you're thinking about buying a drone, make it this one. Check out the link in our show notes and get a free landing pad with your order! https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Take your personal data back with Incogni! Get 60% off an annual plan at https://incogni.com/chuck and use code chuck at checkout. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 – Year-end tech overview and context 05:30 – Apple product performance and market share claims 14:10 – Interpreting Counterpoint Research data 22:40 – Apple silicon and Mac sales discussion 31:15 – Ford's CarPlay commitment vs. GM's approach 42:00 – Consumer expectations and real-world experiences 52:30 – Tech, culture, and year-end reflections Links: Apple leads the industry in 5 key product segments https://www.applemust.com/apple-leads-the-industry-in-5-key-product-segments/ Ford reaffirms its ongoing commitment to CarPlay https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/29/ford-reaffirms-its-ongoing-commitment-to-carplay Carmakers are taking Apple fans for an unbelievable ride https://www.macworld.com/article/3019151/ride-or-die-for-carplay.html Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming i

At CES Unveiled, HOVERAir showed off the Aqua, a first-of-its-kind self-flying action camera designed for use on land and water. Morgan Alexander outlined its waterproof design, 4K video, sub-250g weight, and unique snorkel mode that records above and below the surface. Show Notes: Chapters: Links: HOVERAir on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4pHsFIU Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

From CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, T Banks, Product Manager for Shure, introduces the new MV88 microphone designed for iPhone and USB-C devices. Featuring a dual-capsule design to deliver adjustable stereo sound, app-controlled gain, auto-leveling, and real-time noise reduction the MV88 help creators capture clean audio anywhere. Show Notes: Links: Shure Mics on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4qi2AkQ Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Spotify's music catalog was recently "appropriated" by an unauthorized party. Was it theft or preservation? The conversation explores copyright, artist rights, and the idea of music as both art and information. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea also look at libraries, global access, licensing models, and how digital archives and video games should be preserved for future generations. MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://clnmy.com/MACVOICES. MacVoices is supported by Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/MACVOICES to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using offer code MACVOICES. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 – Spotify controversy sets the stage 01:10 – Is streaming theft or digital archiving? 02:45 – Artist rights vs. public access 04:30 – Music as art or as information 06:20 – How libraries justify broad access 08:15 – Equity and global availability of culture 10:00 – Licensing models that could work 12:20 – Why preservation matters in the digital age 14:10 – Video games as cultural artifacts 16:30 – Where the industry may be headed 18:00 – Final thoughts on ownership and access Links: Spotify Music Library Leaked Online by Pirate Activist Group https://www.billboard.com/business/streaming/spotify-music-library-leak-1236143970/ Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At CES Unveiled 2026, Matthew Ungar, Marketing Manager for Govee shows off the company's newest smart lighting and home innovations. Highlights include LumaBlend Plus for richer color control, dynamic ceiling lights that mimic natural skies, an AI lighting assistant, and a nugget ice maker designed to bring restaurant-style convenience into the home. Show Notes: Links: Govee Smart Ceiling Light https://amzn.to/3NkYiLa GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Voice Control https://amzn.to/49StR7E Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At CES Unveiled 2026 in Las Vegas, Carrie Kessenich, Director of Brand Management for FeatherSnap talks about about their smart bird feeders that automatically captures photos and video of visiting birds. The system identifies species and delivers wildlife moments straight to your phone, turning backyard birdwatching into a modern, connected experience. Show Notes: Links: FeatherSnap Smart Birdfeeder with AI Identification and Wi-Fi Solar Powered, Captures HD Pictures and Videos Sent Directly to Your Phone https://amzn.to/3NrOcYI Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

At CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, we kicked off the event we talked to Dana Reese of Tactacam, who gave us the highlights of the DEFEND a fully cellular security camera system that skips Wi-Fi and wiring for quick setup. Their app sends alerts and lets you request a photo, capture video, or jump into live view. Power is supplied by a solar panel and weather-ready battery, and offers subscription plans. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26005.mp3 Show Notes: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Reactions to ChatGPT's voice mode disappearing from the macOS app, debates about why it happened, and how it impacts their use are provided by Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea. Whether voice is the future, and if OpenAI's "code red" priorities played a role are examined. Then, the panel also review the new "Tech Force" that is tapping talent from major tech firms for government initiatives, raising questions about goals, oversight, privacy, and long-term maintenance. The discussion wraps up with a Pennsylvania court ruling allowing police access to certain Google search data without a warrant. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26004.mp3 MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://clnmy.com/MACVOICES. MacVoices is supported by Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/MACVOICES to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using offer code MACVOICES. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 Intro: voice feature loss and search privacy 00:10 ChatGPT voice mode removed on macOS 01:07 Why it matters: voice vs typing use cases 05:27 "Code red" at OpenAI and possible priorities shift 07:37 New government "Tech Force" announced; initial reactions 09:05 Talent selection, incentives, and skepticism 10:56 Oversight, privacy, vendor influence, and taxpayer risk 15:48 Data sharing scenarios and long-term maintenance concerns 20:54 What's known vs unknown; historical IT project parallels 27:16 Pennsylvania court ruling on Google search privacy 29:33 Warrant vs subpoena; legal standards and future challenges 36:40 Anonymized trends vs identifying individuals 40:51 Broader implications for digital privacy and misuse risk 42:07 Patriot Act parallels and "reverse keyword" concerns 43:27 Wrap-up and reminders Links: You'll soon lose access to ChatGPT's Voice feature on macOS https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/19/chatgpt-voice-mode-retiring-on-macos-app/ Apple Specialists to Join New Government 'Tech Force' https://www.mactrast.com/2025/12/apple-specialists-to-join-new-government-tech-force/ Pa. high court rules that police can access Google searches without a warrant https://therecord.media/google-searches-police-access-without-warrant-pennsylvania-court-ruling Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE D

The MacVoices Live! panel discusses reports of U.S. restrictions affecting foreign-made drones and the impact on DJI users, an Italian fine against Apple tied to app tracking prompts and privacy expectations, and talk of possible U.S. retaliation over EU tech enforcement. Along the way, the group vents Festivus-style grievances and debates privacy, evidence, and motive. Participants include Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea. MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://clnmy.com/MACVOICES. MacVoices is supported by Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/MACVOICES to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using offer code MACVOICES. Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 Opening: drones, Italian fine, retaliation 00:50 Festive panel intros and holiday banter 07:12 Drone news: U.S. restrictions and DJI concerns 10:44 FCC approvals vs existing drones; supply/import issues discussed 20:40 Italy fines Apple over app privacy/tracking prompts 23:05 Interpreting the case: reporting gaps and EU regulatory culture 28:41 U.S. retaliation threats over EU DMA/DSA enforcement 35:07 Chat room question: privacy preferences and tracking tolerance 36:35 Wrap-up and credits Links: US bans new foreign drone models in a blow to Chinese giant DJI https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/23/business/us-ban-foreign-drones-dji-intl-hnk Apple fined $116 million over app privacy prompts https://www.theverge.com/news/849528/apple-italy-antitrust-fine-att-app-privacy Economic forecast for Italy https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/economic-surveillance-eu-member-states/country-pages/italy/economic-forecast-italy_en Trump Administration Threatens Retaliation Over EU's DMA and DSA Enforcement Against U.S. Tech https://www.macrumors.com/2025/12/16/trump-admin-eu-dma-retaliation/ Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web:

Real-world risks and responsible use of AI kick off the second part of our conversation with The Long Island Macintosh Users Group. The group swaps scam stories (spoofed bank calls, W-2 phishing, ransomware) and how AI can amplify fraud. Ways to mitigate exposure in an AI-powered world include cyber insurance, privacy tradeoffs in popular AI tools, copyright/IP guardrails in image generation, and careful experimentation. This edition of MacVoices is supported by MacVoices After Dark. What happens before and after the shows is uncensored, on-topic, off-topic, and always off the wall. Sign up as a MacVoices Patron and get access! http://patreon.com/macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Scams refresher: don't click, verify directly [2:18] Why scams work: volume, pressure, and "sensibility" [3:44] Spoofed bank calls and how to break the script [5:49] Small businesses as targets; cyber insurance gap [7:12] Photo scanning business: liability vs. cyber coverage [11:35] W-2 breach fallout; IRS PINs and identity theft [13:42] Ransomware economics and "references" story [20:13] LLM choices: ChatGPT vs. Perplexity; citations and accuracy [21:58] Scraping, paywalls, and plagiarism concerns [26:16] Privacy tradeoffs and risk assumptions [31:06] Apple, encryption backdoors, and trust [34:56] Human review triggers; sensitive prompts [38:33] Closing: experiment, but stay cautious [40:50] Synthetic hosts, AI conversations, and credibility risks [41:10] AI companions and teen harms; responsibility and guardrails [42:15] Phones in schools; education over bans [46:51] Wrap-up and thanks Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The first part of an appearance at The Long Island Macintosh Users Group digs into large language models, real-world AI use, and Apple's philosophy. The conversation ranges from productivity and creativity to ethics, privacy, and deepfakes. Why experimentation, transparency, and skepticism matter as AI becomes part of everyday workflows starts with participation from the group. (1) This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by our Patreon supporters. Get access to the MacVoices Slack and MacVoices After Dark by joining in at Patreon.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Introduction and context of the AI discussion [2:57] AI vs. large language models explained [6:01] Privacy, trust, and corporate AI policies [7:38] Personal rules and verification when using AI [9:09] Apple's AI strategy and user perception [14:48] Using AI in audio, transcripts, and show prep [16:09] Disclosure, AI constructs, and ethical concerns [24:03] Training models and personalized AI responses [27:52] Prompt engineering and agentic AI [41:10] Deepfakes, scams, and real-world risks Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The MacVoices Live! panel takes a deep dive into the self-driving car debate, weighing sensational media coverage against real-world safety data and personal experiences with autonomous taxis. Chuck Joiner, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, David Ginsburg, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea discuss human distraction, software transparency, police interaction with automated vehicles, and whether machines can outperform inattentive drivers in real-world situations. The Antigravity A1 is the world's first 8K 360 drone, it's genuinely a game-changer. You get full immersive flight with the goggles, insanely intuitive controls, and endless creative freedom in editing.If you're thinking about buying a drone, make it this one. Check out the link in our show notes and get a free landing pad with your order! https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Media coverage and self-driving incidents [1:11] Comparing autonomous driving to human drivers [2:20] Tesla and Waymo real-world experiences [5:41] Ride safety and public comfort with automation [6:52] Media bias and tech success stories [8:27] Police interaction and system improvements [9:47] Human distraction and societal impact [13:35] Transparency, regulation, and AI concerns [19:56] Interface frustrations and lighter discussion [21:55] Scheduling notes and community wrap-up Links: Driverless Waymo vehicle goes through tense police stop in L.A. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/driverless-waymo-vehicle-inadvertently-takes-riders-tense-police-stop-rcna246994 The Data on Self-Driving Cars Is Clear. We Have to Change Course. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/02/opinion/self-driving-cars.html Justin Bieber threatens Apple with 'rear naked choke hold' over Messages UI https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/12/07/justin-bieber-threatens-apple-with-rear-naked-choke-hold-over-messages-ui Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.fa

The December 2025 Update shares a planned break the week of January 5 for CES in Las Vegas, explaining it's one of the two annual conference pauses to gather interviews and content. Why you should pay extra attention to MacVoices Magazine at this time of year and s a last call to revisit the Holiday Gift Guide list and episodes is included. The Update ends with listener and viewer thanks, a Patreon tier roll-call. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] December update and New Year greeting [0:20] Planned downtime during CES week [1:20] Curated how-to magazine highlights [2:54] Final reminder: Holiday Gift Guide list and episodes [3:49] Gratitude to the audience and community [4:35] Support report and Patreon acknowledgments [5:59] Looking ahead to 2026 and ways to support Links: 2025 MacVoices Holiday Gift Guide Master List 2025 MacVoices Holiday Gift Gide on Flipboard: Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

A multi-topic MacVoices Live! discussion touches on the growing pains of predictive markets after disputes over Time's Person of the Year, raising questions about gambling, rules, and manipulation. Chuck Joiner, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, David Ginsburg, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea also debates proposed age-verification requirements for online content, concerns over data retention and privacy, new calls for social-media disclosures from travelers, and what Alan Dye's departure could mean for Apple's interface direction. "The Antigravity A1 is the world's first 8K 360 drone, it's genuinely a game-changer. You get full immersive flight with the goggles, insanely intuitive controls, and endless creative freedom in editing.If you're thinking about buying a drone, make it this one. Check out the link in our show notes and get a free landing pad with your order!" https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Predictive markets and AI controversy [6:42] Gambling, manipulation, and rule disputes [7:50] Age verification and online privacy risks [19:47] Social media data demands for travelers [28:10] Encrypted alternatives and Proton tools [29:51] Alan Dye's departure and Apple design impact [36:53] Interface consistency across Apple platforms Links: Kalshi users are in an uproar over their Time 'Person of the Year' bets https://www.fastcompany.com/91459584/kalshi-polymarket-time-magazine-artificial-intelligence-sam-altman Apple and Google will be asked to block nude photos unless user age is verified https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/15/apple-and-google-will-be-asked-to-block-nude-photos-unless-user-age-is-verified/ App age verification in action: What you share and who gets your information https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/11/app-age-verification-in-action-what-you-share-and-who-gets-your-information/ U.S. will require some tourists to hand over 5 years of social media https://www.fastcompany.com/91458104/u-s-will-require-some-tourists-to-hand-over-5-years-of-social-media Why Travel to the U.S. Feels Harder Than It Should: The Real Story Behind Social Media Screening and TSA Delays https://johnnyjet.com/why-travel-to-the-u-s-feels-harder-than-it-should-the-real-story-behind-social-media-screening-and-tsa-delays/ Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry confe

A wide-ranging discussion covers mixed signals from GM around CarPlay, as the automaker rejects full support while selectively adopting Apple integrations like Music and digital keys. Chuck Joiner, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, Eric bolden, David Ginsburg, Web Bixby, and Jim Real also reacts to safety concerns over more recalled power banks, new Vision Pro travel features, updates to Apple's Sports app, and the latest Bending Spoons' acquisition, this time of Eventbrite. "The Antigravity A1 is the world's first 8K 360 drone, it's genuinely a game-changer. You get full immersive flight with the goggles, insanely intuitive controls, and endless creative freedom in editing.If you're thinking about buying a drone, make it this one. Check out the link in our show notes and get a free landing pad with your order!" https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 Mixed messages around CarPlay and recent headlines 01:20 Live show return and panel introductions 05:15 Amazon power bank fire warning and safety concerns 06:40 VisionOS travel features and real-world use cases 14:00 Apple Sports app adds golf coverage 15:00 GM's CarPlay stance, Apple Music, and digital keys 24:05 Bending Spoons acquires Eventbrite 30:00 Eventbrite pricing, data, and business model discussion Links: PSA: Amazon-exclusive power banks have been recalled after fires https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/10/psa-amazon-exclusive-power-banks-have-been-recalled-after-fires/ visionOS 26.2 adds big change for using Apple Vision Pro on the go https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/15/visionos-26-2-adds-big-change-for-using-apple-vision-pro-on-the-go/ Apple Sports App to Support Golf, Including PGA Tour https://www.macrumors.com/2025/12/15/apple-sports-app-to-support-golf/ General Motors Announces Plans to Start Offering iPhone Car Keys https://www.macrumors.com/2025/12/15/gm-plans-to-roll-out-iphone-car-keys/ GM rolling out native Apple Music app with Spatial Audio support https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/15/gm-native-apple-music-app/ Apple and Google will be asked to block nude photos unless age verified https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/15/apple-and-google-will-be-asked-to-block-nude-photos-unless-user-age-is-verified/ Bending Spoons to acquire Eventbrite in $500M all-cash deal https://tech.eu/2025/12/02/bending-spoons-to-acquire-eventbrite-in-500m-all-cash-deal/ Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the

Our conversation with Kirk McElhern about Take Control of Apple Media Apps looks at the steady maturation of Apple's media apps—Music, TV, Books, and Podcasts—and why major changes are now rare. Kirk unpacks Apple Music's personalized stations and discovery, the "hits rise to the top" problem, and why many podcast pros still prefer Overcast despite Apple's transcripts. Plus: how Apple's services strategy nudges users toward subscriptions, and why managing your own library adds complexity. (Part 2) MacVoices is supported by the 2025 MacVoices Holiday Gift Guides. Tech and more you want to give and get. Find out what the panels recommend at MacVoices.com/HolidayGiftGuide. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Personal radio vs "played-to-death" tracks [1:14] Mixes: Essentials, Discovery, personal stations, Friends [2:06] Genius: how recommendations evolved [3:34] Weighting, hits, and eclectic listening problems [5:20] Creating a radio station from an album/song [6:31] Podcast app satisfaction and why Overcast wins [10:09] Podcast transcripts and what Apple can do at scale [11:35] Apple apps work best with Apple services [13:06] Subscriptions, Apple One, and rotating streaming services [15:04] iTunes/iPod history and the interface that mattered [18:30] Continuity from SoundJam to today [19:20] Splitting iTunes into separate apps: debate [23:55] Who benefits most: people managing local libraries Links: Take Control of Apple Media Apps by Kirk McElhearn Guests: Kirk McElhearn writes about Macs, iPods, iTunes, books, music and more. He is a regular contributor to TidBITS, as well as several other web sites and magazines. He is an avid podcaster who's shows include The Next Track,. You can follow him on Twitter, and visit his personal web site, Kirkville. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Kirk McElhern discusses the latest edition of Take Control of Apple Media Apps, covering what's new—and what isn't—in Music, TV, Podcasts, and Books. He critiques the "Liquid Glass" look, notes small updates like AutoMix and pinned items, and argues the apps have reached maturity. The conversation includes accessibility issues, managing personal video libraries, and why Spotify's appeal isn't just playlists. (Part 1) MacVoices is supported by The Antigravity A1. Get off the ground like never before with the Antigravity A1. You have to see the results to believe them. Find out everything you need to know to get off the ground with Antigravity A1 — the world's first 8K 360 drone. https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: 0:00 – Why this edition matters; introducing the updated book 2:46 – What's new: AutoMix, lyric tools, pinning, folders, widgets 4:04 – Consistency across Mac/iPhone/iPad and where the Mac differs 6:39 – "Maturity" vs innovation; why major UI changes may be over 7:44 – iPod/iTunes anniversaries and the long arc of media features 10:31 – Hardware/software "peaks" and what innovation looks like now 12:24 – OS 26 changes, Liquid Glass pros/cons, and usability 13:42 – TV app thumbnail/title problems; accessibility concerns 16:22 – Using Plex for ripped/personal video libraries 19:14 – Playlists, Spotify vs Apple Music, and personalization Links: Take Control of Apple Media Apps by Kirk McElhearn Guests: Kirk McElhearn writes about Macs, iPods, iTunes, books, music and more. He is a regular contributor to TidBITS, as well as several other web sites and magazines. He is an avid podcaster who's shows include The Next Track,. You can follow him on Twitter, and visit his personal web site, Kirkville. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

A wide-ranging discussion examines the implications of leadership changes and talent loss within Apple's AI organization following delays to promised Siri features. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, and Jim Rea debate whether Apple's struggles reflect internal turmoil, unrealistic timelines, or a deliberate partnering with external AI options. Privacy, on-device capabilities, and regulatory pressure all factor into a candid assessment of Apple's AI strategy and credibility. MacVoices is supported by The Antigravity A1. Get off the ground like never before with the Antigravity A1. You have to see the results to believe them. Find out everything you need to know to get off the ground with Antigravity A1 — the world's first 8K 360 drone. https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: 00:00 – Apple AI leadership changes and antitrust context 01:29 – Interpreting the AI "retirement" and internal disruption 03:23 – Internal models vs. external AI partnerships 07:24 – Privacy, outsourcing, and Apple's long-term goals 11:46 – Competing AI platforms and market momentum 15:03 – Infrastructure limits and AI hype cycles 18:12 – Credibility gap after delayed Siri features 22:08 – Contextual AI and Apple's closed-system approach 28:14 – Privacy tradeoffs and user awareness 32:17 – Can closed systems still innovate? Links: Apple AI Chief John Giannandrea Retiring After Siri Delays https://www.macrumors.com/2025/12/01/apple-ai-chief-retiring-after-siri-failure/ Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected]. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected]. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mas