The Really Useful Podcast

It's time for your weekly news of tech news and tips for technophobes. We look at the new Android app feature in Windows 11, how Microsoft Edge is dominating in the browser market, and understand the implication of Nintendo closing the eShop for Wii U and 3DS games.Plus, we have our usual recommendations for you to check out.ShownotesIn this week's show, we look at:NewsYou'll Need a Pretty Beefy PC to Run Android Apps on Windows 11Watch Out, Safari Users: Microsoft Edge Will Soon Take OverTipsNintendo Is Discontinuing Support for the Wii U and 3DS eShop: What You Need to KnowSony Backtracks on PlayStation 3 and PS Vita Digital Store ClosuresWhat Is Video Game Preservation and Why Is It Important?RecommendationsWordle Clone TurdleDepths of WikipediaChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host the show. Follow them on Twitter (@thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus) for updates and even make suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.

Microsoft Teams is widely used in business and other organizations, but will performance improvements make it a desirable alternative to Zoom? Will you Android phone or tablet get the new Material You theme on Android 12? What happened at the Nintendo Direct 2022 event? And will Call of Duty stay on PlayStation after Microsoft's acquisition of Activision?Click play to learn more about all of this and learn why Google is killing a bunch of its services in 2022 - including YouTube Originals.Shownotes In this week's show, we look at recent tech news that affects you, tech tips, and give you our recommendations.NewsMicrosoft Improves Teams for Better PerformanceGoogle Rolling Out Material You Design Theme to Android 12 DevicesNintendo Direct Event Reveals Key 2022 ReleasesMicrosoft Intends to Keep Call of Duty Available on PlayStationTipsProjects Google Is Killing in 2022Killed By GoogleRecommendationsCustom PC magazineApple's seamless profile syncing system for new devicesChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Looking for clarity on the latest tech news or want some technology topics explaining? In this podcast, we do just that.This week's Really Useful Podcast covers some easy performance boosts you can make to Windows 11, why you should trust Microsoft Defender, and explains data recovery. You'll also learn how to save money on Amazon Prime, and find out what we're recommending this week.Shownotes This week we talk about:NewsBuilt In Apps Slow Down Windows 11Microsoft Defender Is Better Than You ThinkNew Windows Update Boosts SSD PerformanceTips and TricksHow Does Data Recovery Work?Get Amazon Prime CheaperOur recommendationsMillie and MollyDeveloper PageNintendo Switch Store ListingRhodium DACChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Sony was never going to let Microsoft's intended acquisition of Activision Blizzard through without a fight. Their retaliation? To buy Bungie, developer of the Destiny series. Meanwhile, Wordle gets too big for its creator and Facebook abandons the cryptocurrency everyone had forgotten about anyway.We also take a look at eBay scams and our usual recommendations.In this week's show:NewsSony Buys BungieWordle Sold to New York TimesFacebook Quits CryptoCyber Attack Hits German Fuel SupplierTipseBay Scams You Should Know AboutRecommendationsFind an old arcade gameJ.J. McCullough YouTube ChannelChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter (@thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus) with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

It's been another busy week in the world of tech. But what does it all mean? The Really Useful Podcast is the tech podcast for technophobes, and we have the answers you need to make sense of the technological world.ShownotesThis week, we discuss:NewsMicrosoft to acquire Activision-BlizzardCall of Duty to remain on PlayStationRobot vacuum escapes hotelJames Cameron warns of the dangers of deepfakesGrindr scammer jailed for blackmailing menTips and tricksWhat Is the Difference Between USB-A and USB-CHow Does Car Wi-Fi Work?RecommendationsEvercade VS retro gaming systemCleer Ally Plus II earpodsChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

This week's show has it all: retro gaming, cyberattacks, ransomware, Reddit, YouTube's rich list, Meta/Facebook being taken to court in the UK, and even recommendations!This week, we discuss:REvil ransomware gang arrested in RussiaUkraine cyber-attack: Russia to blame?Meta faces billion-pound class-action caseYouTube rich list 2021What Is Reddit?What Game Consoles Are Released in 2022?Steam DeckTheA500 MiniAstro City Mini VIntellivision AmicoPlaydateRecommendationsEvanEra TV (learn magic on YouTube)Baba Is YouChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter (@thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus) with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Planning on buying a new streaming device for your TV but not sure what to choose? Is there even any point when you have a Smart TV anyway? In this week's show, we look at the pros and cons of Amazon Fire, Roku, Apple TV, and similar services, along with app-enabled TV boxes for satellite, cable, and even Blu-ray players. Oh, and there's a bit about Smart TV apps, too.One last thing: Christian inexplicably pronounces Roku as "rock-you" instead of "roh-koo" throughout this show. No one knows why.Shownotes Best Media Streaming DevicesWhat Is the Best Smart TV Operating System?Chromecast, Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV?Google Chromecast Vs. RokuCan You Buy a Non-Smart TV?Christian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

In this week's show, we rely on the following resources:Funny Questions to Ask Google HomeFunny Things to Ask SiriFunny Things to Ask AlexaThe Funniest Questions to Ask AlexaMakeUseOf abandons Windows PhoneChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter (@thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus) with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Ever felt that your current job or career doesn't quite satisfy you? While you can change direction at anytime, the start of a new year is a great time to make the changes in your life that you want to see. In this podcast, we look at how it is possible to change career, with a focus on freelancing.This week, we discuss:How to Quit Your Job to Pursue Your PassionFind Your Purpose With These TestsHow to List Your Services on FiverrTop Tools for Budding EntrepreneursChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter (@thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus) with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Is your home network fast enough? We're going to venture that it isn't - but why? Is it the position of the router, your cabling, or something else?In this podcast, we look at the various ways you can improve wired and wireless network speeds around the home. This includes the main living areas, attics, basements, and even outhouses. ShownotesWays to Fix Dropped Wi-Fi SpeedsHow to Improve Your Router SpeedOptimize Wi-Fi Reception with Wireless Feng ShuiChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You've heard about the "metaverse" but what is it really? Do you want to don a VR headset to attend meetings and other remote events, or would you prefer a different solution?In this week's show, we consider how the metaverse might change the world.To learn more, we're joined by Thomas Lorenz, the CEO and founder of Journee, a metaverse company that has been providing VR and AR solutions to big names in technology for the past few years. Thomas has a slightly different view of the metaverse to that you may have read about, and he's here to outline the possibilities of the technology. He'll also tell us why you may not need a VR helmet in a few years' time.ShownotesSome reference notes for this week:Journee - The Metaverse CompanyMetaverse vs. Virtual Reality - Key DifferencesReasons to Worry About the Facebook MetaverseChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

The term "supply chain" was largely unknown outside of manufacturing, shipping, and haulage until a couple of years ago. Now, we have a seemingly unending "supply chain crisis" which threatens to disrupt everything from Christmas to weddings to online shopping.In this week's show, Christian Cawley chats with David Savage of Geotab, a fleet telematics company in the UK. He explains the supply chain and how it has come to be in crisis, as well as offer some thoughts as to how long the crisis might last.ShownotesGeotab Fleet TelematicsChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin, with your suggestions for future topics.Don't forget to subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Welcome to the 100th edition of the Really Useful Podcast. To celebrate our centenary show, usual hosts Christian Cawley, Ben Stegner, and Gavin Phillips have got together to chat through a few thoughts about their preferred computer systems. Laptop, or desktop PC? Bought, or self-built? Along the way, they discuss everything from racing games to Raspberry Pi, game controllers to shuttle PCs, and a whole host of other things. They also recall their favorite chats from the past 99 episodes of the Really Useful Podcast, just to crown the occasion.ShownotesWeeCee mini PC for running MS-DOS and Windows 9x softwareChampionship ManagerSteamOSShould You Buy a Nintendo Switch?Christian Cawley, Gavin Phillips, and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey, @gavinspavin, and @stegnersaurus, with your suggestions for future topics. Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips. Finally, thanks so much for being with us for the past 100 episodes!

Black Friday 2021 is set to be the longest yet. But with supply chain issues limiting the production of certain hardware, it could also be the most frought. Will you see the bargain land on your doormat before Christmas?In this Really Useful Podcast we take a look at how you can prepare for the biggest ever Black Friday, help you to grab the deals you want before they sell out, and show you the tools that will help you grab a genuine bargain. All the items in this week's Black Friday 2021 special are linked below.How to Use Amazon ListsBest Black Friday Deals Why You Shouldn't Buy an Amazon Fire for Your KidsMake Sure You Get a Bargain on Black FridayFind Black Friday DealsReally Useful Podcast show pageBest Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals for GamersAmazon Order ScamsThings to Buy on Black Friday to Save MoneyChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

If you've embraced home working, you've probably realised that the kitchen table isn't ideal. You need a dedicated space, which might be a spare room, in the attic, in the basement, or even in your garden.But when that space is set up, how do you get reliable Wi-Fi - and does your home office even have a power supply?This week, we take a look at the practicalities of networking a home office and ensuring a reliable power supply. ShownotesUseful links for this week's show:How to Set up Powerline AdaptersPowerline Adapters vs. Mesh Wi-FiHow Ring Doorbell WorksSpotcam Video DoorbellChristian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin. Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

ShownotesKeep hold of these links for Windows 11 coverage on MakeUseOf:How to Upgrade to Windows 11 FreeHow to Enable TPM and Secure Boot to Install Windows 11Make an Unsupported Computer Compatible With Windows 11Why Chinese Users Can't Upgrade to Windows 11Get Windows 11 Features on Windows 10Which Is Best for You: Windows 11 Home or Pro?Windows 7 Gadgets and Widgets on Windows 10Christian Cawley and Gavin Phillips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin. Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Upgrading to a new iPhone? it can be expensive, not to mention time consuming with so many models to choose from. In this podcast we bring you all the information you need, from recognizing when it's time to upgrade and getting the best deal, to backing up your data and transferring it to a new iPhone.ShownotesIn this week's show, we discuss:Signs It's Time to Upgrade Your iPhoneThe iPhone Upgrade ProgramShould You Buy You iPhone from Your Carrier or Apple?Reason to Buy Your iPhone Straight from AppleSave Money When Buying an iPhoneHow to Backup iPhone and iPadTransfer Data from an Old iPhoneHow to Replace a Broken Phone DisplayChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics. Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Going green is tough, especially if you want to save money. In this episode, we look at the challenges and solutions around recharging phones and laptops.This week, you'll need the following references:How to Check Laptop Battery Cycle Count on WindowsShould You Leave Your Laptop Plugged In?Battery Capacity vs. Charging SpeedMonitor Battery Health on AndroidDoogee S95 Pro ReviewSave Energy at HomeChristian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

We look at a selection of mobile and browser apps that can help you to improve your physical and mental health. This episode features a chat with Dr Angelica Kohlmann of Bloom Diagnostics, who tells us how their mobile app can be used to diagnose illness and find the right treatment.ShownotesVirtual Fitness ChallengesApps to Keep Fit at Your DeskFind Your Inner SpaceBoost Mental FitnessBloom DiagnosticsBloom mobile appIs Telemedicine a Security Risk?Medical Technologies and the Future of Healthcare Christian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

In this week's show we discuss:Facebook Whistle-blower Goes PublicWhistle-blower to Tell Senate Facebook SecretsFacebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram Go OfflineConspiracy Theories and MistruthsReasons Online Gamers Should Use a VPNCan Games Consoles Use a VPN?Christian Cawley and Ben Stegner host this podcast. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics. Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips

If you're buying a new computer, there is always the temptation to open it up, plug it in, and start using it. But what you should actually do is spend time installing the apps you'll need and setting up the hardware and peripherals.This week we talked about:Dell G5 5505 Gaming Laptop Review15 Must-Have Windows Apps and Software for Any New PCBuild a Raspberry Pi Cloud Drive With NextCloud11 Things You Must Do With a Brand New LaptopThis week, Christian Cawley and Ben Stegner are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You've heard of the Nintendo Switch, but what is the Nintendo Switch OLED? And why is Valve launching the Steam Deck portable gaming PC?Ths week's show looks at these two very different developments in mobile gaming, considers the rationale behind both, their potential strengths and weaknesses, and asks: which one would you buy?This week we discuss:Why the New Nintendo Switch (OLED) Is a Huge DisappointmentValve Finally Reveals the Steam Deck, Its $400 Nintendo Switch CompetitorWhat Is SteamOS? How to Start Gaming on LinuxOther handheld gaming consoles:SMACHZGPD Handheld Windows Gaming PCChristian Cawley and Megan Ellis are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @Megg_Ellis with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

When open-source software projects are bought by profit-driven software publishers, it's never an easy ride. With the introduction of telemtry to digital audio workstation Audacity, recently, its new owners have discovered just how tenuous a grip on their audience they really have.But what is all the fuss about? What is telemetry, anyway?This week's relevant linksAudacity Introduces Controversial Privacy PolicyAudacity Denies It Is Spying on UsersWindows 10 Privacy GuideAudacity Fork Maintainer QuitsAlternatives to AudacityChristian Cawley and James Frew are this week's hosts. Follow them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @jimjamfroo.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Ransomware is huge in 2021, taking down businesses, government departments, gas pipelines, and worse to come. Now is the time to familiarise yourself with ransomware, the risks, how it gets onto your system, what happens to your data if you don't pay, and the risks of actually paying the ransomware.These are the links we used for this week's Really Useful Podcast.What Is Ransomware?What Is Babuk Locker Ransomware Gang?US Pipeline Ransomware AttackDarkside Ransomware Behind Pipeline AttackRansomware Taskforce Formed by DOJWhat You Should Know About Cognizant RansomwareWhat You Need to Know About Ransomware in 2021Top Security Trends in 2021Christian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

This week we take a look at some of the best DIY tech builds and fixes featured so far on the Really Useful Podcast. Featuring contributions from Christian Cawley, Ian Buckley, Gavin Phillips, and Ben StegnerHere are those all-important reference links for this week's show.Build Your Own HDTV AntennaDIY Computer Desk Projects to Save MoneyFix a Scratched DVDHow to Remove a Broken Headphone JackChristian Cawley is your host this week. You can contact him on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Are you safe online? Security software is expensive, but you don't have to spend money on it if you follow some straightforward, simple, computer and internet usage tips.This week's Really Useful Podcast looks at link checkers and other easy, "soft" online security tips that you can use to develop safer habits and behaviors online.In this week's show we used the following articles:How to Spot a Phishing EmailSites to Help You Check if Links Are SafeHow to Safely Use Your Pet's Name as a Secure PasswordChristian Cawley and Ian Buckley host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @ianmbuckley with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Windows 11 is coming - but what can you expect from it? Is there really any need to replace Windows 10?This podcast looks at the coming Windows 11, what we know, what we can guess at, and what probably won't happen.This week's podcast features these stories:Windows 10 Support Ends in 2025Windows Start Up Sounds Slo-fi RemixEduard Khill Trololol 10 Hour VersionWindows 11 - Is It Real?Windows 11 Has Been LeakedChristian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Most new cars feature integration with a smartphone. While Apple iPhones are typically compatible, it's more than likely that you're using an Android phone.Android Auto is a useful handsfree in-car app from Google, designed to integrate your phone's apps with your automobile's entertainment system. You can also make calls using the digital assistant and generally enjoy safe use of mobile apps while driving.These are your links for this week's discussion.Android Auto updated to v6.6What Android Auto Can DoThe Best Android Auto AppsAndroid Auto TipsAndroid Auto TweaksAndroid Auto Not Working? Try These FixesBest Android Auto AlternativesWhat Is Apple Carplay?Connect an Android Phone to Your CarThis week, Christian Cawley and Ben Stegner are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.(Image Credit: Maurizio Pesce/Wikimedia Commons)

Using technology daily means that the keyboard, mouse, computer screen, earphones, etc., are going to get dirty. Knowing how to clean them doesn't just protect you from infections, it helps to prolong your tech's usable lifespan.In this week's show, we take a look at some of our best tech cleaning tips.This week you'll need to refer to the following links:Ways to Use Cleaning Slime or PuttyLearn How to Clean Your Keyboard ThoroughlyHow to Safely Clean AirpodsHow to Clean an LCD Computer ScreenChristian Cawley is your host this week. You can contact him on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

The age old question: do Nintendo, Sony, or Microsoft produce the best console? Well, we're bypassing that and declaring the Nintendo Switch the winner. After all, it's lightweight, flexible, and designed with multiplayer in mind from the ground up. You might not get to enjoy intense single player or some AAA online multiplayer titles, but it is impossible to use the Nintendo Switch without having a whole bunch of fun.ShownotesSome useful links to help you with this week's show:Nintendo Handheld Sales Over 500 millionGaming Retro UKIs Nintendo Releasing a New Nintendo Switch?Nintendo Switch vs Nintendo Switch LiteThe Best Nintendo Switch ControllersConnect Nintendo Switch to a TV Without the DockNintendo Switch Online - What You Need to KnowEvercade ReviewChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

The world of cryptocurrency just doesn't seem to stop changing. With over 5000 different cryptocoins in circulation, new digital units of value need to stand out from the crowd in order to generate any sort of traction.In this week's show, we take a look at the resurgent Dogecoin (and learn how to pronounce it) and try to work out if Chia is really a "green" cryptocurrency. There's also a look at The Internet Computer, a new approach to decentralizing the internet.ShownotesHere are the useful links for this week's show:What Is Dogecoin?What Is Chia Cryptocurrency?Will the Internet Computer Crytocurrency Usher in a Decentralized Internet?Don't Use Crypto to Buy a HouseChristian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Vegan headphones might sound like the name of an indie band, but they're real. Headphones made without leather and using sustainable materials are just one of the ways in which using technology responsibly is becoming more important.This week, we take a look at sustainability in technology, and how things might change going forward.ShownotesThis week's vital links:What Are Vegan ElectronicsThe Best Vegan HeadphonesWhat Is Greenwashing?How Music Is Going VeganCutting Back Animal Products During the PandemicChristian Cawley and James Frew are this week's hosts. Follow them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @jimjamfroo.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Dashcams might seem an expensive addition to your vehicle, but they are worth their weight in gold. In this week's podcast we look at dashcams, covering everything from looking at the best current models to the reasons to use a dashcam.We also consider the various steps you should take when installing a dashcam for the first time, and how you can save money by making your own dashcam with a free mobile app.ShownotesThis week's vital links:Reasons to Use a DashcamHow to Choose a DashcamMake Your Own DashcamDashcam Apps for AndroidDashcam Setup TipsChristian Cawley is your host this week. You can contact him on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Kickstarter, Indiegogo, Unbound, Blurb... the opportunities for crowdfunding campaigns are massive these days. But if you've never backed a project on Kickstarter and don't really know what crowdfunding is - or if you have concerns over their reliability - we're here to help you out.ShownotesHere are this week's links for everything we discuss in the show.3 Things to Consider Before Backing a KickstarterKickstarter Asks Creators to Be More HonestTips for Running Your Own Crowdfunding CampaignBets Alternatives to PatreonCrowdfund Without a Crowndfunding WebsiteCrowdfunder Producer Discusses Brian Blessed CastingSitcom GeeksChristian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You've seen the ads, online and on TV. Courses for learning to code, build mobile apps, even start designing video games. But how easy is it really to learn to code? To find out, Ian Buckley - a man with a bit of programing experience under his belt - is here to explain if you should learn to code, where to find good resources, and whether or not you should be paying for the pleasure...ShownotesLearn the MERN StackLearn JavaScript While Playing MinecraftGaming Retro UKChristian Cawley and Ian Buckley host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @ianmbuckley with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Heard about Clubhouse but not really sure what social audio is all about? You've come to the right place. In this podcast we take a look at Clubhouse, its "exclusivity" and what alternatives are coming along from Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and other existing social platforms.Use these links to learn more about Clubhouse in this week's show.What Is ClubhouseWhat Are the Alternatives to Clubhouse?Christian Cawley and Megan Ellis are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @Megg_Ellis with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

To celebrate 30 months since the launch of the Really Useful Podcast, we bring you a collection of the top 5 best tips from our most popular episodes.As such, Christian Cawley is joined by various members of the Really Useful Podcast team to cover diverse topics such as Windows keyboard shortcuts, problems with Skype, old PC games, Microsoft Office alternatives, and a what is Raspberry Pi.ShownotesWe talk about so many things this week, but the following links will help you find the key resources.Best Windows 10 Keyboard ShortcutsBest Microsoft Office Alternatives for macOSOld PC Games That Are Still Worth PlayingFix Skype ProblemsBest Uses for a Raspberry PiChristian Cawley hosts this week's show, with contributions from Ben Stegner, Gavin Philips, James Frew, and Ian Buckley.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You've seen the term NFT but what does it mean? How can you buy digital art for $1000s without even owning it? What is the real ecological damage of cryptocurrency mining? And why are graphics cards so expensive?In this podcast we explore non-fungible tokens, the madness of this latest crypto bubble, whether cryptocurrency is as bad for the environment as some claim, and why there is a shortage of graphics cards.Some links to help you with this week's show:What Do You Own If You Buy an NFT?Elon Musk's NFT About NFTsNvidia Cryptocurrency Mining LockIs Bitcoin Really Bad for the EnvironmentChristian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

The Amazon Fire tablet is one of the most popular alternatives to Apple's iPad. Equipped with the Android-based Fire OS, these are versatile tablets aimed at the whole family.But are you getting the most our of your Amazon Fire tablet? Is the tablet really suitable for children or is it more geared towards a media consuming adult? How do you change the way it looks, or install games from Android Play? And what happens if you crack the screen?These questions, and more, are answered in this week's Really Useful Podcast - the tech podcast for technophobes.This week's vital links:Amazon Fire Tablet Tipsmake the Amazon Fire Tablet Child FriendlyWhy You Shouldn't Buy an Amazon Fire Tablet for KidsRegain Storage Space on the Amazon Fire TabletBest Amazon Fire TabletHow to Repair a Cracked Tablet ScreenInstall Google Play on a Fire TabletMake the Amazon Fire Tablet Look Like Stock AndroidChristian Cawley is your host this week. You can contact him on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey with your suggestions for future topics.

Some new Xbox and PS5 games are launching at around $70. Game controllers are around the same price. And if you can get hold of a next generation console, that's going to set you back a few hundred dollars too.So: is video gaming becoming to expensive? This week's discussion draws on these resources:Why Are PS5 and Xbox Series Games So Expensive?Best Sites for Video Game Price AlertsWays to Improve Laptop Gaming PerformanceActivision Founders Launch Atari 2600 Game CompanyDefeat PS5 and Xbox Series ScalpersEvercade Handheld Retro Console ReviewChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You've probably heard of a Raspberry Pi, but how does this single-board computer (SBC) differ from a microcontroller? In this Really Useful Podcast, we discuss the Raspberry Pi and its clones, the Raspberry Pi Pico and other microcontrollers, and the Arduino. How do they differ? What projects suit each type of board? Click play to find out.Some resources for this week's show:Raspberry Pi Pico ReviewArduino IDE 2 Beta DropsDeskPi Pro Raspberry Pi Case ReviewRaspberry Pi 400 ReviewGreat Raspberry Pi ProjectsBBC Micro:bit Gets UpgradeChristian Cawley and Ian Buckley host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @ianmbuckley with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Everyone has an old phone or two at the back of a drawer. Your old PC might be stuck under a desk somewhere---meanwhile, you've switched to a laptop.Old hardware takes up space, but simply throwing it away is dangerous. Without the correct recycling techniques, discarded tech can be an ecological nightmare. Fortunately, there are various ways that you can recycle archaic tech, whether old phones, computers, PC components, media players, and even all that waste paper your printer invariably creates.In this week's show:Recycle Old Mobile PhonesCreatively Recycle Old MotherboardsUse Your Old MiniDiscRecycle Old RAM ModulesFind Recycling PlantsHow to Reuse and Recycle Old Printer PaperChristian Cawley is your host this week---contact him on Twitter via @thegadgetmonkey with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

If you have a YouTube channel, Twitch stream, podcast, Facebook page, Instagram account, or TikTok, you're probably keen to find and audience. But how do you find followers and build a following?This week, we take a look at the various techniques you can use across several social platforms and mediums. You may be surprised at how similar some of the techniques are...In this week's show:Build an Audience for Your Streaming ChannelPromote Your Podcast and Find New ListenersGrow Your Podcast AudienceGet More TikTok FansFind More Instagram FollowersChristian Cawley and Megan Ellis are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @Megg_Ellis with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows - subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Have you updated your phone recently? Is Windows 10 up to date, or do you have updates pending? Why should you have to bother, anyway?In this week's podcast, we explore Windows Update, updating a Mac, iPhone or iPad, Android, and even game consoles.This week's useful links:Windows Update guideUpdate macOSHow to Update Xbox One and Xbox Series S/XUpdate a PS4 or PS5Update iPhone to Get PatchedChristian Cawley and Ben Stegner are your hosts. You can contact them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @stegnersaurus with your suggestions for future topics.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Unresponsive or broken Xbox One controller? Problems getting it to connect to your console, or is there a broken thumbstick? Wish you could take your Xbox One with you when you head out?These challenges and more are the subject of this week's Really Useful Podcast.

In this Really Useful Podcast we take a look at all you need to know about launching your own podcast. We explore what a podcast is, what yours might be about, how to record it, what apps you can use, and how to find free podcast hosting and list your show on Apple Podcasts. You'll also learn some tricks for promoting your podcast.This week's useful links:What is a podcast?How to start a podcastAndroid apps for recording podcastsRemove background noise with AudacityHow to promote your podcastHeadliner social video makerThis week's Really Useful Podcast is hosted by Christian Cawley.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

This week's Really Useful Podcast is hosted by Christian Cawley, with appearances by Gavin Philips, James Frew, and Ben Stegner.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

Heard about the Dark Web and want to know what it is all about? We've got answers to the questions you need in this week's Really Useful Podcast.Is the Dark Web illegal? Is it safe to access the Dark Web? What's the difference between the Dark Web and the Deep Web? Hit play to find the answers to these questions and more.This week's useful links:How to Access the Dark WebDark Web Myths DebunkedOnline Accounts Traded on the Dark WebBest Dark Web WebsitesLittle Known Corners of the Dark WebChristian Cawley and Gavin Philips host this week's show. Contact them on Twitter: @thegadgetmonkey and @gavinspavin.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on iTunes and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You'll find these links useful for this week's Really Useful Podcast.What Is Right to Repair?Defend Your Right to Repair With LinuxOnce again, Christian Cawley and James Frew are this week's hosts. Follow them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @jimjamfroo.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.

You'll find these links useful for this week's Really Useful Podcast.5 Features You'll Need in True Wireless In-Ear Headphones6 Things You'll Need to Know When Buying Wireless HeadphonesApple AirPods Vs. AirPods Pro: Which Is Right For You?Christian Cawley and James Frew are this week's hosts. Follow them on Twitter as @thegadgetmonkey and @jimjamfroo.Look out for our other shows---subscribe to the Really Useful Podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube (be sure to hit the bell icon to be notified of new episodes) for more tips.