MacVoices
The talk of the Apple community

The MacVoices Live! panel discuss privacy, AI, and digital trust, comparing Meta’s Instagram encryption rollback with Apple’s RCS encryption in Messages. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, and Jeff Gamet also examine an AI lawsuit involving a chatbot posing as a doctor, plus AI customer service, Apple Wallet, and user trust in technology. 

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 NordLayer. Secure your network & stay compliant with one toggle-ready platform. Get an exclusive offer: up to 22% off NordLayer yearly plans plus 10% on top with the coupon code: MACVOICES10 at NordLayer.com/macvoices.  Try it risk-free—14-day money-back guarantee.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Opening: encryption changes and AI concerns
00:49 Instagram encryption PSA
01:15 Meta’s privacy tradeoffs and safety concerns
01:47 Advice for Instagram users relying on encryption
03:24 Pennsylvania lawsuit against Character AI
04:17 Chatbots posing as doctors
06:04 AI customer service and banking example
07:00 Healthcare company implementation questions
09:39 The danger of users believing an AI is human
12:04 AI in fast-food ordering and prompt manipulation
13:15 Vision Pro content parallels and Apple Wallet convenience
15:36 Apple Wallet usefulness and clutter
17:40 Sponsor: CleanMyMac
18:23 Sponsor: NordLayer
19:03 Explaining the format and show flow
21:08 Apple Messages adds RCS end-to-end encryption
21:30 Apple privacy vs. Meta privacy messaging
24:59 Virtual services, banking, and location independence
27:49 Security expectations across platforms
28:32 OpenAI, ChatGPT subscriptions, Anthropic, and Perplexity
30:23 MacVoices Magazine and support information

Links:

Apple confirms iOS 26.5 Messages app adds RCS end-to-end encryption - 9to5Mac
https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/04/apple-confirms-ios-26-5-messages-app-adds-rcs-end-to-end-encryption/

 

Meta would rather leave New Mexico than rebuild its apps for kids
https://thenextweb.com/news/meta-new-mexico-trial-phase-two-child-safety

 

 

iOS 27 lets users create custom Wallet passes from any QR code as Apple gives up waiting for developers
https://thenextweb.com/news/apple-ios-27-wallet-custom-passes-create

 

Pennsylvania sues Character AI, says chatbot poses as doctors

https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/pennsylvania-sues-character-ai-says-chatbot-poses-doctors-2026-05-05/

 

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.c

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and 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

Direct download: MV26146.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:16pm EDT

In the Riverside booth at NAB in Las Vegas, Danielle Baxter, Business Development Representative, explains how the platform supports podcasting, video interviews, webinars, testimonials, and live streams. She covers options like local recording, separate audio and video tracks, browser-based guest access, built-in editing, branding, captions, producer mode, and flexible plans for solo creators and businesses. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:02 NAB 2026 introduction
00:27 Riverside’s expansion beyond podcasting
01:03 Bridging the gap between conferencing and production
01:43 Built-in editing, branding, captions, and clips
02:02 Matching Riverside tools to different creator needs
02:44 Desktop, mobile, and browser-based guest workflow
03:04 Local recording and separate audio/video tracks
04:32 Guest access through links and mobile app options
04:47 Live streaming, webinars, and clickable lower thirds
05:32 Hardware and browser requirements
06:09 Handling storms, power issues, and connectivity interruptions
07:01 Producer mode and behind-the-scenes direction
07:37 Exporting isolated files for editing
08:38 Hobbyist and business pricing options
10:00 Where to learn more about Riverside

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

Direct download: MV26145.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:26pm EDT

From NAB in Las Vegas, Dan May, President of Blackmagic Design, talks about DaVinci Resolve 21, local AI tools, the new photo page, Blackmagic Cloud collaboration, Fairlight Live, and the free Blackmagic Camera app. The conversation highlights Blackmagic Design's focus on accessible professional tools and creator growth paths. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:08 Chuck Joiner introduces the Blackmagic Design booth
00:34 Dan May joins the conversation at NAB
00:44 Two accessible Blackmagic software products for creators
00:58 DaVinci Resolve as the first featured product
01:18 DaVinci Resolve 21 adds a new photo page
01:49 Local AI tools and privacy-focused processing
02:01 Resolve’s color-grading power expands to photos
02:29 DaVinci Resolve 21 beta availability
02:36 Chuck reacts to DaVinci Resolve training at Post-Production World
04:31 Fairlight Live introduced as the second major product
04:35 Fairlight’s audio heritage inside Resolve
05:50 Free Blackmagic Camera app brings camera controls to phones
06:00 Free DaVinci Resolve supports professional editing
07:29 Blackmagic’s creator growth path from phone to pocket camera to cinema camera
07:49 Education and access as Blackmagic’s core strategy

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

Direct download: MV26144.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:08pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel examine Apple’s quarterly earnings, the continuing importance of Services revenue, and what John Ternus’ presence on Apple’s earnings call may indicate about Apple’s future leadership transition. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, and Jeff Gamet discuss the Apple Vision Pro and the newest wave of “Vision Pro is doomed” commentary. They argue that Vision Pro should be viewed as an early-stage platform product that still needs more time, more content, more developer support, and a larger installed base before its long-term value can be fairly judged. 

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 NordLayer. Secure your network & stay compliant with one toggle-ready platform. Get an exclusive offer: up to 22% off NordLayer yearly plans plus 10% on top with the coupon code: MACVOICES10 at NordLayer.com/macvoices.  Try it risk-free—14-day money-back guarantee.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Apple earnings, Services growth, and Vision Pro setup
00:10 NordLayer sponsor message
00:27 CleanMyMac sponsor message
00:49 Welcome to MacVoices Live
05:13 Apple’s quarterly earnings call enters the discussion
05:31 Apple earnings reaction and why the call still matters
10:51 Services growth and Apple’s revenue future
11:58 John Ternus, Tim Cook, and possible leadership-transition signals
11:59 The conversation shifts from “Apple is doomed” to Vision Pro criticism
12:04 “Vision Pro is doomed” becomes the new narrative
16:24 CleanMyMac sponsor message
19:28 Questioning extreme criticism of Vision Pro
26:31 Vision Pro as the product Apple needs right now
26:48 The need for more Vision Pro content
26:53 Why creating Vision Pro content requires a larger installed base

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.c

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and 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

Direct download: MV26143.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:54am EDT

In the Mapcreator booth at NAB in Las Vegas, Julia Schellekens provides an update on their service that delivers detailed maps for news and other organizations who want to clearly show what is happening where. With a wide array of export and animation capabilities to help drive home the information, it is almost certain that you have seen their product in use no matter where in the world you are. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:03 MacVoices at NAB 2026
00:08 Chuck Joiner opens from NAB in Las Vegas
00:12 Returning to the Mapcreator booth
00:24 Julia joins Chuck to show what is new
00:37 What Mapcreator is and how it works00:43 Creating static, interactive, and animated maps
00:47 Mapping tools for journalists and reporters
01:37 Helping news agencies focus on the story
02:16 What’s new with MapCreator this year
02:26 Newsroom system and Adobe workflow integrations
02:52 Keeping users in their preferred design tools
03:29 Maps and visuals as storytelling tools
03:41 Creating animations quickly from GPX files
04:05 Matching map creation to fast-moving news
04:12 Export options for interactive maps
04:26 Static map exports including PNG, JPEG, PDF, and SVG
04:34 Animated exports including MOV, MP4, WebM, and image sequences
05:27 Why Mapcreator is more than a quick coded tool
05:34 Reducing manual work and saving production time
05:49 Mapcreator website: Mapcreator.io

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

Direct download: MV26142.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

Joe Kissell introduces Take Control Live: Taming Big Tech, a four-session interactive course designed to help users understand privacy, security, subscriptions, ads, platform lock-in, and practical alternatives to major tech services. Rather than urging an all-or-nothing break from companies like Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, or Apple, Joe will focus on realistic steps, live demos, Q&A, forums, and usable options to help you make informed choices. 

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 NordLayer. Secure your network & stay compliant with one toggle-ready platform. Get an exclusive offer: up to 22% off NordLayer yearly plans plus 10% on top with the coupon code: MACVOICES10 at NordLayer.com/macvoices.  Try it risk-free—14-day money-back guarantee.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00] Joe Kissell introduces Take Control Live: Taming Big Tech
[1:47] How the original Take Control Live format began in 2012
[6:01] From a Facebook-focused idea to a broader big tech course
[7:14] The influence of Cory Doctorow’s Enshittification
[8:27] Why certain big tech companies create user frustration
[9:48] Live demos, Q&A, forums, and platform coverage
[12:30] Different user attitudes toward Google and major services
[14:55] Why total separation from big tech is unrealistic for most users
[16:59] A humane, practical approach to reducing dependence
[19:45] Replacing Amazon habits and finding alternatives
[21:29] Ad blockers, Apple TV, YouTube, and imperfect solutions
[25:40] Addressing ethics and political concerns without advocacy
[28:01] Facts, options, and personal choice instead of persuasion
[32:23] Moving beyond policy debates to personal action
[36:14] Customer frustration with companies reducing service
[37:20] Cancellation barriers and retention tactics
[40:44] Scheduling the four live Saturday sessions
[43:44] Homework, recordings, PDFs, and course materials
[47:29] Teachable as the course platform and forum host
[53:30] Pricing, discounts, payment plans, and course value
[1:01:05] The real cost of free services and subscription choices
[1:03:50] Course branding, technology setup, and production work
[1:06:05] Final details, dates, pricing, and where to sign up

Links:

 

Guests:

 

Joe Kissell is the publisher of  Take Control ebooks, as well as the author of over 60 books on a wide variety of tech topics. Keep up with him if you can on his personal site, JoeKissell.com, on Bluesky, and 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

Direct download: MV26141.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:19am EDT

The ethics of companies tracking employee keystrokes, mouse movement, and device use to train AI is debated by Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs and Eric Bolden. Issues of  legality, consent, compensation, and workplace power dynamics all factor into the issue. They also examine AI-generated legal errors, the need for human review, creative AI tools from Astropad and Adobe, and the value proposition of entering the Apple ecosystem with lower-cost devices. 

MacVoices is supported by NordLayer. Secure your network & stay compliant with one toggle-ready platform. Get an exclusive offer: up to 22% off NordLayer yearly plans plus 10% on top with the coupon code: MACVOICES10 at NordLayer.com/macvoices.  Try it risk-free—14-day money-back guarantee.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Opening Topics: AI Training, Legal Errors, and Apple Ecosystem Value
00:28 Employee Keystroke Tracking and AI Training Ethics
02:09 Comparisons to Insurance Tracking and Consent
04:11 Employment Terms, Disclosure, and Renegotiation
08:02 Tracking as an HR Problem Versus a Productivity Tool
12:48 Legal Gaps, Data Sharing, and Third-Party Privacy Concerns
15:34 Business Judgment, Company Devices, and Employee Expectations
18:32 Astropad’s AI-Era Tools and Adobe Firefly Assistant
23:40 AI Errors in Legal Filings and Professional Accountability
27:15 Using AI Correctly With Human Review
30:17 Industry Rollouts, Training Gaps, and Future Mistakes
36:33 Apple Ecosystem Pricing and Value Proposition
38:00 Panel Wrap-Up and Guest Locations
46:06 Closing Comments and Show Information

Links:

A Full Apple Ecosystem Now Costs Less Than a MacBook Pro

https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/23/apple-ecosystem-now-costs-less-than-macbook-pro/

 

Meta tracking employee keystrokes to train AI is probably legal. Experts say that doesn't make it ethical

https://www.fastcompany.com/91530650/meta-tracking-employees-ai-training-legal-not-ethical

 

Top law firm Sullivan & Cromwell told a US federal bankruptcy court that a major filing it made in a high-profile case contained multiple AI hallucinations

https://www.techmeme.com/260421/p53

 

This detail about Apple’s CEO transition shows the company can still keep important secrets - 9to5Mac

https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/21/this-detail-about-apples-ceo-transition-shows-the-company-can-still-keep-important-secrets/

 

Apple stock is having a surprisingly muted reaction to CEO Tim Cook's exit. Here are 3 reasons why

https://www.fastcompany.com/91529987/apple-stock-reacts-surprisingly-ceo-tim-cook-exit-3-reasons-why

 

 

Perplexity's Personal Computer AI assistant feature launches on Mac for subscribers - 9to5Mac

https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/16/perplexitys-personal-computer-ai-assistant-feature-launches-on-mac-for-subscribers/

 

 

Astropad unveils Workbench for Mac: 'Remote desktop made for the AI era' - 9to5Mac

https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/08/astropad-unveils-workbench-for-mac-remote-desktop-made-for-the-ai-era/

 

 

Adobe launches Firefly AI Assistant to orchestrate tasks across Creative Cloud

https://thenextweb.com/news/adobe-firefly-ai-assistant-creative-cloud-agentic-workflows

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

Support:

     Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon
     http://patreon.com/macvoices

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Connect:

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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26140.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:04pm EDT

Matthew Collings, Head of Product for Krotos was manning their booth at NAB in Las Vegas, showing off the latest upgrades to their new AI-assisted sound design workflows in Krotos Studio for Adobe Premiere, with support for DaVinci Resolve and other NLEs planned. The system analyzes selected video regions, places synchronized royalty-free sound effects from Krotos’ recorded library, and lets editors quickly swap, remix, and customize impacts, ambiences, drones, footsteps, cloth, and surfaces without generative audio. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:03 Introduction from NAB 2026
0:24 Matthew introduces Krotos Studio’s new Adobe Premiere integration
0:51 AI analyzes selected video regions for sound design
1:33 Traditional Krotos Studio workflow and interactive sound performance
2:31 Automatically generated sounds appear in the Premiere timeline
3:17 Customizing AI-assisted sound choices after placement
4:14 Swapping impacts and transitions while maintaining sync
4:46 Security, privacy, and cloud processing questions
5:32 AI tools used and planned launch timing
6:04 Royalty-free licensing and ownership of sounds
6:51 Krotos’ expanded sound library and AI-assisted placement
7:25 Recorded sound vs. generative audio
8:02 Cloud processing and connection-speed considerations
8:36 Using AI for footsteps, ambience, and cloth sounds
9:55 Instant Render for drones, ambiences, and music beds
10:42 Stem drag-and-drop for greater mix control
11:15 AI-generated synchronized footsteps demo
11:42 Changing footstep surfaces while preserving sync
12:23 Manual fine-tuning and creative flexibility
13:04 AI as a time-saving creative assistant
13:40 Pricing, subscription tiers, and website

Support:

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Connect:

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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26139.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:09pm EDT

In the Insta360 booth at NAB 2026, Global PR Manager Poppy Zhang gives us a preview of a new creator-oriented wireless mic system that features not only high-quality recording but also a customizable screen that can display logos, emoji, or brand identities. The unit also features a compact charging case, with pricing to be announced soon. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:03 Introduction from NAB 2026
0:12 Why the Insta360 booth is a must-stop
0:37 New creator and media offerings introduced
1:30 Product overview and professional use cases
2:45 Workflow improvements and app integration
3:40 Custom branding and logo uploads
4:10 Ease of use and setup demonstrations
5:00 Creator-focused production capabilities
6:15 Closing thoughts from the Insta360 booth

Support:

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     http://patreon.com/macvoices

     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

     Web:
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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26138.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:26am EDT

On The Road to MacStock, Chris Cooke returns as a speaker  to discuss her upcoming presentation on inspiring others to read and how accessibility, reading technologies, and inclusive design all matter. Drawing from her experience teaching adults with vision loss, she explains how Apple’s accessibility features, Braille support, audiobooks, OCR, and customizable interfaces help people with visual, auditory, and learning challenges.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:03 Introduction to the Road to MacStock
1:22 Chris Cook returns to MacStock
2:26 Chris Cook’s background and mission
3:47 Inspired to Read presentation overview
5:39 Accessibility tools for reading challenges
7:24 Audiobooks and auditory processing issues
9:32 How accessibility innovations benefit everyone
10:49 Accessibility features in Apple operating systems
12:38 Apple’s consistency and accessibility leadership
15:14 Running Apple public betas with accessibility needs
17:34 MacStock discount code and event details
19:34 Closing thoughts and farewell

Links:

Macstock Conference.com

Save $50 with the Chris' discount code: ccooke

or

Save $50 with Chuck’s discount code: macvoices

Guests:

Chris Cooke is a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist for the Oregon Commission for the Blind.

An avid tech enthusiast, Chris teaches assistive technology to adult learners who are blind or visually impaired. Showing them how to make the most of their smart phones and Mac computers is a joy.

When not teaching, Chris enjoys podcasting, cooking and spending time with her two cats. Her podcasts include Unmute Presents and At Your Fingertips.

Support:

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     http://patreon.com/macvoices

     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

     Web:
     http://macvoices.com

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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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     https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

     MacVoices Page on Facebook:
     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/

     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26137.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:25pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel reviews the latest on the evolving legal battle between Apple and Masimo, highlighting recent rulings favoring Apple while leaving key issues  like blood oxygen features and damages unresolved. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs and Eric Bolden also explore whether AI-driven devices could challenge the iPhone, and how ecosystem lock-in, user habits, and app ecosystems figure into the equation. 

MacVoices is supported by NordLayer. Secure your network & stay compliant with one toggle-ready platform. Get an exclusive offer: up to 22% off NordLayer yearly plans plus 10% on top with the coupon code: MACVOICES10 at NordLayer.com/macvoices. Try it risk-free—14-day money-back guarantee.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to Apple–Masimo legal developments
0:12 Status of Apple Watch blood oxygen limitations
1:32 Legal implications and ongoing appeals
3:46 Trade Commission vs. court cases explained
5:19 Apple’s position and potential damages
7:05 Patent dispute and financial stakes
10:15 Transition to AI and smartphone discussion
11:45 AI impact on iPhone relevance
12:27 OpenAI phone speculation and ecosystem lock-in
15:03 Market stability and barriers to entry
18:20 Privacy concerns and user behavior
19:49 Blackphone and niche security devices
23:07 iPhone battery issue anecdote and tips

Links:

The new iPhones have a problem turning back on after the battery runs out - 9to5Mac

https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/26/iphone-turned-off-dead-how-to-turn-back-on/

 

Massimo's Apple Watch ban complaint dismissed by U.S. District Court

https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/04/25/massimos-apple-watch-ban-complaint-dismissed-by-us-district-court

 

iPhone gets more important as every AI improves, Perplexity CEO says

https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/04/23/iphone-gets-more-important-as-every-ai-improves-perplexity-ceo-says

 

The iPhone is ‘not getting disrupted’ at all by AI, says Perplexity CEO - 9to5Mac

https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/23/the-iphone-is-not-getting-disrupted-at-all-by-ai-says-perplexity-ceo/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

 

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

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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices

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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26136.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

At NAB 2026, a conversation with Manny Moreno of SmallRig highlights the company’s evolution from producing simple hardware like screws to becoming a major player in camera accessories, batteries, and lighting. Manny explains how creator feedback drives product innovation, enabling flexible, professional-grade rigs at affordable prices. He also  discusses advancements in tripod heads, V-mount batteries, and an affordable, compact lighting solution designed for a wide range of creators. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:03 Introduction and NAB context
0:14 SmallRig origins and early products
1:44 Growth with DSLR and mirrorless cameras
3:42 Expansion into broader product lines
4:02 Creator-driven design philosophy
5:16 Product quality and customer support
7:08 Tripod head and rig balancing features
9:46 V-mount battery innovations
11:44 Expansion into consumer gear and lighting
12:18 Compact lighting products and use cases
14:30 Custom design programs and creator collaboration
15:16 Wrap-up and contact information

Links:

SmallRig RF 20C 20W Pro Portrait Background Zoom Light, 5400Lux at 1m, 5 Colors, CRI 97+
https://www.smallrig.com/rf-20c-portable-focusable-led-video-light.html?sku=5335

SmallRig Instagram Account:
https://www.instagram.com/smallrig.us/

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

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26135.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:48pm EDT

Joe Kissell continues discussing Take Control of Apple Contacts, focusing on third-party app integration, outdated social media and messaging fields, and security concerns. He explains how apps can access contact data, why the Mac version lags behind iPhone and iPad, and why CardDAV-based syncing lacks true end-to-end encryption.

MacVoices is supported by NordLayer. Secure your network & stay compliant with one toggle-ready platform. Get an exclusive offer: up to 22% off NordLayer yearly plans plus 10% on top with the coupon code: MACVOICES10 at NordLayer.com/macvoices.  Try it risk-free—14-day money-back guarantee.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:09 Introduction and NordLayer support
0:39 Third-party email apps and Contacts integration
3:46 Social media and instant messaging fields
5:01 Outdated messaging services in Contacts
7:46 iPhone/iPad advantages over the Mac version
10:02 Why Apple Contacts needs more attention
11:21 Custom social services and syncing behavior
16:18 Security and privacy concerns
17:32 CardDAV, encryption, and trust
21:28 Research, expertise, and Take Control approach
25:48 Book pricing and availability
26:54 Printing, exporting, and overlooked features
28:17 Closing remarks and future conversations

Links:

Guests:

Joe Kissell is the publisher of  Take Control ebooks, as well as the author of over 60 books on a wide variety of tech topics. Keep up with him if you can on his personal site, JoeKissell.com, on Bluesky, and 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

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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26134.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:24am EDT

Joe Kissell discusses his brand new book, Take Control of Apple Contacts, explaining why a guide is needed despite the app's app’s limitations. He outlines hidden features, confusing design choices, and workarounds for common frustrations like sharing contacts and managing duplicates. (1) 

Today’s edition of MacVoices is supported by MacVoices Live!, our weekly live panel discussion of what is going in the Apple space as well as the larger tech world, and how it is impacting you. Join us live at YouTube.com/MacVoicesTV at 8 PM Eastern 5 PM Pacific, or whatever time that is wherever you are and participate in the chat, or catch the edited and segmented versions of the show on the regular MacVoices channels and feeds.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:09 Introduction to the new Apple Contacts book
1:40 Why the book exists despite app limitations
3:48 Hidden features and misunderstood design
5:44 Importance of contacts across apps and workflows
9:54 Lack of shared contacts and workaround solutions
13:18 Risks and limitations of shared account methods
19:27 Controlling what contact data gets shared
22:45 Duplicate contacts problems and concerns
24:57 Built-in merge tools and their limitations
26:25 Trust issues with automated duplicate merging
27:32 Linking contacts across multiple accounts
29:44 Differences between iPhone, iPad, and Mac versions

Guests:

Joe Kissell is the publisher of  Take Control ebooks, as well as the author of over 60 books on a wide variety of tech topics. Keep up with him if you can on his personal site, JoeKissell.com, on Bluesky, and 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:
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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26133.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:09pm EDT

The MacVoices Update for April 2026 reviews the week’s activity, including extensive coverage from NAB in Las Vegas and the growing accessibility of professional video tools. Chuck explains the temporary disruptions to live programming due to conflicting travel, outlines improvements to show notes and Patreon benefits, and thanks supporters.

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:
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     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26132.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:10pm EDT

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner discuss NAB 2026, the rapid evolution of creator and broadcast tools, and how once-expensive production gear is becoming accessible. They then examine Tim Cook’s move to executive chairman, John Ternus becoming Apple CEO, and what the transition may mean for Apple TV, services, AI, marketing, original content, customer surveys, and Apple’s future streaming strategy. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:19 Welcome and Las Vegas return
0:55 NAB 2026 overview and show scale
1:42 Broadcast tools, software, and creator technology
2:31 Why expensive pro gear matters to everyday creators
3:27 iPhone video power and storytelling tools
4:23 NAB shopping list and tempting new gear
5:11 Tim Cook transition and John Ternus becoming CEO
6:39 Why the leadership change matters
8:25 Smooth succession versus major disruption
9:37 Tim Cook’s legacy and Apple’s cultural role
10:29 Earnings calls, WWDC, and public handoff possibilities
12:21 What Ternus could mean for Apple TV
13:24 AI, iPhone priorities, and Apple TV’s place
16:08 Eddie Cue, services, and streaming leadership
18:26 Making Apple TV more competitive
20:29 Tim Cook’s possible executive chairman duties
22:35 Watching how Ternus handles Hollywood and services
24:28 Long-term impact of CEO transitions
26:17 Apple TV customer survey discussion
28:14 Awards, characters, buzz, and relatability
34:59 Light entertainment versus serious themes
36:05 New releases, subscriptions, and back catalogs
38:02 Originals-only strategy versus legacy catalog content
39:54 Paywalls, subscriptions, and future content models

Links:

Tim Cook to become Apple Executive Chairman John Ternus to become Apple CEO
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/04/tim-cook-to-become-apple-executive-chairman-john-ternus-to-become-apple-ceo/

Will New Apple CEO John Ternus, Hardware Engineer & F1 Fan, Deliver Next Transformational Device, AI Strategy & Stay The Course In Streaming?
https://deadline.com/2026/04/apple-ceo-john-ternus-challenges-1236867414/

What Does John Ternus Mean for Apple TV? - The Addition
https://theaddition.net/views/what-does-john-ternus-mean-for-apple-tv/

Apple TV surveys subscribers about content quality, variety, and interest in sports
https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/27/apple-tv-surveys-subscribers-about-content-quality-variety-and-interest-in-sports/

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, FacebookInstagram 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

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     https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner

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     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice

     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
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Direct download: MV26131.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:20pm EDT

MacVoices Live! returned after a brief hiatus to discuss the leadership transition from Tim Cook to John Ternus, exploring timing, succession planning, and potential impact. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs and Eric Bolden debate whether the move is surprising, how it aligns with product cycles, and Apple’s strategic stability. They highlight strong internal leadership, ongoing success across hardware and services, and why it points to a well-managed transition plan.

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Connference, along with Ecamm Creator Camp, taking place in Crystal Lake IL on July 9 - 12. Sign up at macstockconference.com and use the code “macvoices” to save $50 off your ticket.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction and return of the live panel
0:36 Panel introductions and show reset after hiatus
5:53 Breaking news: leadership transition discussion begins
7:11 Timing of announcement and WWDC implications
8:28 Business strategy and product momentum considerations
9:39 Role changes and executive structure explained
11:05 Succession planning and internal leadership strength
12:19 Reactions to timing and public perception
14:20 Evaluating past leadership decisions and milestones
18:40 Market response and stock stability discussion
19:59 Orchestrating a smooth CEO transition
21:32 Leadership roles and internal promotions
23:20 Importance of internal succession vs external hires
26:52 Optimism for future leadership and innovation

Links:

This detail about Apple’s CEO transition shows the company can still keep important secrets

https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/21/this-detail-about-apples-ceo-transition-shows-the-company-can-still-keep-important-secrets/

 

 

Apple stock is having a surprisingly muted reaction to CEO Tim Cook's exit. Here are 3 reasons why

https://www.fastcompany.com/91529987/apple-stock-reacts-surprisingly-ceo-tim-cook-exit-3-reasons-why

 

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
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Direct download: MV26130.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:06pm EDT

At NAB 2026, U.S.-based Wireless Mic Belts showcases solutions designed to secure and manage wireless mic packs for creators on the move. Brett Moore explains how their  products help free up hands by attaching transmitters to belts, tripods, or clothing. With in-house manufacturing and custom capabilities, they adapt to evolving gear and unique use cases, including sports applications.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:03 Introduction from NAB 2026 and problem of managing gear
0:08 Overview of Wireless Mic Belts and company background
1:02 Hands-free solutions and tripod attachment concepts
1:57 Custom design process and adapting to new mic models
2:31 Materials, manufacturing, and in-house production
3:09 Standard products versus custom work options
4:16 Sports applications and use in professional broadcasting
5:01 Expanding use in live sports and media production
5:57 Pricing, customization costs, and final 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

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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26129.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:17pm EDT

At NAB in Las Vegas, OBSBOT introduced their new Tiny 3 series, a new AI-powered 4K PTZ webcam lineup is showcased, emphasizing improved built-in audio to reduce reliance on external microphones. Dreami Li, Influencer Partnership Manager, walked us through the collection that  features multiple audio modes, advanced tracking (human, voice, and animal), and gesture controls for zoom.

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26128.mp3

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Conference, along with Ecamm Creator Camp, taking place in Crystal Lake IL on July 9 - 12. Sign up at macstockconference.com and use the code “macvoices” to save $50 off your ticket.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:03 Introduction from NAB 2026 and return visit to the company
0:10 Overview of Tiny3 AI-powered webcam lineup
0:52 Audio improvements and multiple recording modes
1:30 AI tracking features: human, voice, and pets
2:00 Gesture controls for zoom and camera interaction
2:14 Workflow integration with Stream Deck, OBS, and streaming platforms
3:42 Software compatibility and flexible streaming setup
4:11 Comparison of Tiny3 and Tiny3 Lite models
5:10 Pricing and target audience for creators
5:53 Closing remarks and NAB coverage wrap-up

Links:

OBSBOT Tiny 3 AI-Powered Spatial Audio 4K Webcam, AI Tracking PTZ Camera with 1/1.28" Sensor, Tri-Mic, Voice & Gesture Control, 120FPS, HDR, Web Cam
https://amzn.to/4t1Usph

OBSBOT Tiny 3 Lite AI-Powered Spatial Audio 4K Webcam - Compact AI Tracking PTZ Camera with 1/2" Sensor, Tri-Mic, Voice Control, 120FPS, HDR, Webcam
https://amzn.to/4vUSCsN

OBSBOT Tiny 3 AI-Powered Spatial Audio 4K PTZ Webcam, Tri-Mic AI Tracking 2.0 Voice Control Gesture Control 1/1.28" Sensor 4K Streaming Camera for Zoom Meeting Content Creation
https://amzn.to/4mWYDBd

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:

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Direct download: MV26128.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:40pm EDT

At NAB in Las Vegas, we’re back in the Shure booth, where Mario Ponce, Senior Specialist, Market Development shows off the MV88 USB-C is a compact plug-on stereo microphone for phones and tablets, offering adjustable polar patterns, auto gain, and noise reduction via software. The MVX2U Gen 2 interface converts analog mics to digital with added features like EQ, compression, and mobile compatibility. They provide two flexible, portable solutions for high-quality audio in live streaming, interviews, and field production. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:03] Introduction from NAB 2026
[0:26] Overview of new Shure content creation products
[0:26] MV88 USB-C microphone features and use cases
[1:15] Software controls and polar pattern flexibility
[2:35] Real-world performance and noise reduction
[3:28] Introduction of MVX2U Gen 2 interface
[3:50] Features, improvements, and mobile compatibility
[4:59] Software capabilities and microphone flexibility
[5:07] Pricing, availability, and practical use
[6:32] Closing thoughts and wrap-up

Links:
Shure MV88 USB-C Microphone for Mobile Recording
https://amzn.to/4eHrHdO

Shure MVX2U Gen 2 XLR-to-USB-C Digital Audio Interface, Apple MFi Certified, Portable Setup for Audio Processing, Noise-Free Recording Between XLR and USB-C Devices
https://amzn.to/4vOZ04Z

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:

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Direct download: MV26127.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:54pm EDT

From NAB 2026 in Las Vegas, Broadcast BlindsCEO Rick Smith reviews their expertise in controlling natural light for video production and introduces a new portable solution. Designed for mobile crews and prosumer creators, the unit uses layered gels and scrims to manage brightness and background exposure. Quick setup and adjustable light reduction make it practical for changing conditions, expanding its use beyond studios to sports, field reporting, and on-location content creation. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:03] NAB introduction and Broadcast Blinds overview
[0:44] What Broadcast Blinds does and why light control matters
[1:22] Invisible design philosophy and large-scale applications
[2:25] Introduction of the new portable unit
[2:39] Features, size, and setup flexibility
[4:04] Target markets: sports, mobile crews, and creators
[5:29] Adjustability for changing lighting conditions
[5:28] Closing thoughts and where to 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

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     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:

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Direct download: MV26126.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:24pm EDT

Apple quietly removed legacy Pages, Numbers, and Keynote apps, noting they remain accessible but hidden for compatibility reasons. The panel of Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Guy Serle, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius and Jim Rea discusses the implications for new and existing users, then turn their attention to Apple Store closures, including a unionized location, weighing business realities against public perception. The conversation then dives into ChatGPT’s arrival in CarPlay, highlighting convenience, privacy tradeoffs, and how Siri integration affects data handling and user control. 

This edition of MacVoices is supported by The MacVoices Slack. Available all Patrons of MacVoices. Sign up at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction and topics overview
[0:28] Apple removes legacy iWork apps from visibility
[2:18] Accessing older apps and compatibility concerns
[3:58] Apple Store closures and union controversy
[8:16] Mall traffic, safety, and business decisions
[14:20] ChatGPT arrives on CarPlay
[15:32] Siri integration and user experience
[16:36] Privacy implications and account linking
[23:18] How ChatGPT access works across Siri and app
[28:33] Anonymization vs. account-based interactions
[31:11] Data usage and model training settings
[32:17] Wrap-up and broader implications

Links:

Apple removes old Pages, Numbers, and Keynote apps from Mac App Store
https://www.macworld.com/article/3112986/apple-removes-old-pages-numbers-and-keynote-apps-from-mac-app-store.html

 

Apple permanently closes three Apple Store locations
https://www.macworld.com/article/3110872/apple-permanently-shuts-three-apple-store-locations.html

 

Chatgpt App Launches for Carplay on iOS 26 4
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/31/chatgpt-app-launches-for-carplay-on-ios-26-4/

Guests:

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

Direct download: MV26124.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:41pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel jump from Microsoft Surface price hikes and AI likeness rights to Apple Music playlist creation, privacy concerns around LinkedIn, and secure enterprise alternatives from Proton. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Guy Serle, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius and Jim Rea revisit Neal Stephenson’s metaverse vision and comment on Microsoft Copilot’s “entertainment” framing that isn’t always entertaining. 

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Connference, along with Ecamm Creator Camp, taking place in Crystal Lake IL on July 9 - 12. Sign up at macstockconference.com and use the code “macvoices” to save $50 off your ticket.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00] Introduction and Surface price hikes lead-in
[0:56] AI clones, likeness rights, and digital performers
[3:10] Managing image rights during life and after death
[5:46] Avatars, ABBA, KISS, and virtual performance futures
[6:58] Adult entertainment, control of likeness, and ethics
[12:27] Apple Music Playlist Playground hands-on impressions
[13:51] Automated playlists versus personal music curation
[16:35] Neal Stephenson reflects on the metaverse and smart glasses
[18:12] LinkedIn accused of scanning browser extensions
[20:47] Paid networks, user expectations, and data collection concerns
[22:22] Disclosure, privacy, and what companies should reveal
[22:47] Proton’s private workspace as a Microsoft 365 alternative
[25:30] Slack adds AI features for enterprise users
[26:33] Microsoft Copilot described as entertainment only
[27:49] Wrap-up and panelist plugs

Links:

She’s Never Going to Age Porn Stars Are Embracing AI Clones to Stay Forever Young
https://www.wired.com/story/shes-never-going-to-age-porn-stars-are-embracing-ai-clones-to-stay-forever-young/

 

How to Use Playlist Playground to Build Apple Music Playlists in Seconds
https://appleinsider.com/inside/apple-music/tips/how-to-use-playlist-playground-to-build-apple-music-playlists-in-seconds

 

Microsoft Copilot for Entertainment Purposes Only

https://lifehacker.com/tech/microsoft-copilot-for-entertainment-purposes-only

 

Microsoft Copilot for Entertainment Purposes Only
https://lifehacker.com/tech/microsoft-copilot-for-entertainment-purposes-only

 

Guests:

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

Direct download: MV26125d.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:35pm EDT

MacVoices Live! returns after a brief hiatus to tackle Microsoft Surface price hikes andquestion whether the reporting around them was misleading, Chuck JoinerDavid Ginsburg, Guy SerleJeff Gamet, Marty Jencius and Jim Rea explore what Anthropic’s shelved Mythos and Project Glasswing projects signal about AI security, coding, and enterprise use.  The conversation wraps with a recommendation for the General Magic documentary as a reminder that some of tech’s biggest ideas arrive long before the world is ready. 

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Connference, taking place in Crystal Lake IL on JulEcamm Creator Camp on July 9. Sign up at macstockconference.com and use the code “macvoices” to save $50 off your ticket.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Surface prices, AI projects, and General Magic preview
00:35 Return to the live panel and programming updates
01:43 New show notes process and audience resources
02:59 Panel introductions and podcast updates
06:11 Dark humor, detours, and settling back in
08:31 Microsoft Surface price hike discussion
12:14 Reader comments and media accuracy concerns
13:41 Clickbait, reporting standards, and source criticism
14:56 Anthropic Mythos and Project Glasswing explained
16:28 Enterprise security, AI agents, and risk management
18:44 AI in coding, product development, and enterprise workflows
21:26 Why these tools are not for consumers
23:39 General Magic documentary review and lessons from early innovation
25:02 Show wrap-up and follow-up links

Links:

 

What Anthropic’s Mythos and Project Glasswing Mean for Your Apple Devices
https://tidbits.com/2026/04/09/what-anthropics-mythos-and-project-glasswing-mean-for-your-apple-devices/

Microsoft Surface price hikes the latest reason to buy a MacBook Neo
https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/14/microsoft-surface-price-hikes-the-latest-reason-to-buy-a-macbook-neo/

 

General Magic Documentary
https://www.generalmagicthemovie.com/#how-to-watch

 

Guests:

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

 

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

Direct download: MV26125.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:12pm EDT

MacVoices Live! returns after a brief hiatus to tackle Microsoft Surface price hikes andquestion whether the reporting around them was misleading, Chuck JoinerDavid Ginsburg, Guy SerleJeff Gamet, Marty Jencius and Jim Rea explore what Anthropic’s shelved Mythos and Project Glasswing projects signal about AI security, coding, and enterprise use.  The conversation wraps with a recommendation for the General Magic documentary as a reminder that some of tech’s biggest ideas arrive long before the world is ready. 

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Connference, taking place in Crystal Lake IL on JulEcamm Creator Camp on July 9. Sign up at macstockconference.com and use the code “macvoices” to save $50 off your ticket.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Surface prices, AI projects, and General Magic preview
00:35 Return to the live panel and programming updates
01:43 New show notes process and audience resources
02:59 Panel introductions and podcast updates
06:11 Dark humor, detours, and settling back in
08:31 Microsoft Surface price hike discussion
12:14 Reader comments and media accuracy concerns
13:41 Clickbait, reporting standards, and source criticism
14:56 Anthropic Mythos and Project Glasswing explained
16:28 Enterprise security, AI agents, and risk management
18:44 AI in coding, product development, and enterprise workflows
21:26 Why these tools are not for consumers
23:39 General Magic documentary review and lessons from early innovation
25:02 Show wrap-up and follow-up links

Links:

 

What Anthropic’s Mythos and Project Glasswing Mean for Your Apple Devices
https://tidbits.com/2026/04/09/what-anthropics-mythos-and-project-glasswing-mean-for-your-apple-devices/

Microsoft Surface price hikes the latest reason to buy a MacBook Neo
https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/14/microsoft-surface-price-hikes-the-latest-reason-to-buy-a-macbook-neo/

 

General Magic Documentary
https://www.generalmagicthemovie.com/#how-to-watch

 

Guests:

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

 

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

Direct download: MV26123.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:53am EDT

Sumit Rai, Chief Product Officer, introduces us to elevate.io, a browser-based video editor built for team collaboration. He demonstrates a laundry list of impressive features, including real-time shared editing, reviewer feedback, cloud processing, proxy-based performance, stock media licensing, AI transcription, subtitle handling, and voice cleanup. Sumit also gives us a peek at their future translation tools that mimic the speaker’s voice, but in different languages. A free option and affordable pricing tiers help you try it and use it as needed for your projects. 

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Connference, taking place in Crystal Lake IL on July 10, 11, and 12, along with Ecamm Creator Camp on July 9. Sign up at macstockconference.com and use the code “macvoices” to save $50 off your ticket.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to elevate.io and the promise of online editing
1:01 The evolution of video editing from edit bays to the cloud
4:36 How elevate.io approaches team-based collaborative editing
8:08 Real-time collaboration with multiple editors in one project
13:39 Bandwidth needs and accessibility for remote editing
15:48 Export options, stock footage, and music licensing
18:02 Finishing inside Elevate.io vs. exporting to other NLEs
23:45 Hardware requirements and pricing tiers
29:09 Team collaboration limits, reviewer mode, and feedback workflow
31:17 AI transcription, subtitles, and voice cleanup features
35:16 Multilingual tools and translation possibilities
40:02 Target users, market position, and future development
44:09 Final thoughts and how to get started with elevate.io

Guests:

Sumit Rai is the Chief Product Officer at elevate.io.

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

Direct download: MV26122.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:21pm EDT

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner discuss Rory McIlroy’s Masters win, what prestige sports rights could mean for Apple TV, and how strong Apple programming can still be hard to discover. They also look at Emmy recognition for Apple documentaries, the return of Dark Matter, debate whether Shrinking lost its balance of humor and drama, and praise Monarch for blending monster action with grounded character storytelling.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction and reaction to the Masters

[1:40] Masters coverage, streaming, and Amazon Prime

[2:57] Could Apple pursue prestige sports rights?

[5:51] Nike’s rapid Rory McIlroy ad response

[7:08] Emmy nominations for Apple’s Vietnam documentary

[8:18] Why quality Apple shows are still hard to find

[9:24] Critical acclaim versus discoverability on Apple TV

[10:29] Dark Matter season two arrives in August

[11:34] A spoiler-aware discussion of Shrinking begins

[12:57] Concerns about tone and pacing in the current season

[14:10] Harrison Ford, Michael J. Fox, and what still works in Shrinking

[16:33] Episode length and whether popular shows run too long

[19:37] Comparing Shrinking, Ted Lasso, and Slow Horses

[22:48] First impressions of Monarch

[24:08] Why Monarch feels grounded despite its monster premise

[27:35] Balancing realism, fantasy, and family dynamics

[30:25] Why Monarch succeeds beyond spectacle

[34:00] Final thoughts on Monarch, Shrinking, and Apple TV discovery

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, FacebookInstagram 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

Direct download: MV26121.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:10pm EDT

Jeff Carlson discusses the pros and cons of third-party iPhone photography accessories, from grips and cages to ND filters and lenses. While these tools can enhance control, ergonomics, and video quality, they often add complexity that detracts from the iPhone’s simplicity. He also highlights new iPhone features, including improved selfie cameras, AirPods as shutter triggers and microphones, and practical shooting tips that expand creative possibilities. Details on all this and more can be found in his new Take Control of iPhone Photography. (Part 3)

CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://clnmy.com/MACVOICES.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction to iPhone photography and accessories
[1:24] Balancing simplicity vs. added gear
[2:18] Grips, Bluetooth shutters, and MagSafe options
[3:23] Cases, filters, and added complexity
[4:32] ND filters, exposure, and video considerations
[6:00] Advanced setups: cages and pro configurations
[7:40] Are accessories worth it for most users?
[8:36] Personal experiences with grips and cages
[10:40] Sponsor message
[12:25] New features in iPhone 17 cameras
[13:18] Using AirPods as shutter triggers
[14:39] AirPods as microphones for video
[15:49] Panorama tips and hidden features
[16:55] Book pricing and availability
[19:37] Jeff Carlson’s current work and projects

Links:

Take Control of iPhone Photography by Jeff Carlson

Guests:

Jeff Carlson is an author, photographer, and freelance writer. Among many other projects, he publishes the Smarter Image newsletter, which explores how computational photography, AI, and machine learning are fundamentally changing the art and science of photography. He’s covered the personal technology field from Macs and PalmPilots to iPhones and mirrorless cameras, publishing in paper magazines, printed books, ebooks, and websites. He’s also the co-host of the podcasts PhotoActive, writes for Take Control, has spoken at several conferences and events. He lives in Seattle, where, yes, it is just as gray and wet and coffee-infused as you think it is. Catch up with everything he’s doing at JeffCarlson.com.

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

Direct download: MV26120.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:19pm EDT

Jeff Carlson discusses the challenges of writing the second edition of Take Control of iPhone Photography, and how changes in hardware and software affected the effort. From effort realistic screenshots to the practical challenges of Apple’s shared libraries and camera controls, Jeff explains how useful features can also create confusion, why newer hardware settings matter, and how tools like dual capture video can be powerful when matched to the right shooting situation. (Part 2) 

CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://clnmy.com/MACVOICES.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction and the work behind the new book
[1:03] Why photography screenshots require extra effort
[4:46] The art and purpose of realistic screenshots
[4:55] Shared Libraries explained
[7:55] Shared photo library mistakes and hidden gotchas
[10:41] How shared photos move between libraries
[14:28] Can you unshare a photo?
[14:59] The confusion around camera controls
[16:11] Physical camera control button strengths and frustrations
[19:16] Why understanding controls improves the shooting experience
[20:05] Dual capture video mode explained
[23:51] Best use cases for dual video capture

Links:

Take Control of iPhone Photography by Jeff Carlson

Guests:

Jeff Carlson is an author, photographer, and freelance writer. Among many other projects, he publishes the Smarter Image newsletter, which explores how computational photography, AI, and machine learning are fundamentally changing the art and science of photography. He’s covered the personal technology field from Macs and PalmPilots to iPhones and mirrorless cameras, publishing in paper magazines, printed books, ebooks, and websites. He’s also the co-host of the podcasts PhotoActive, writes for Take Control, has spoken at several conferences and events. He lives in Seattle, where, yes, it is just as gray and wet and coffee-infused as you think it is. Catch up with everything he’s doing at JeffCarlson.com.

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

Direct download: MV26119.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:34pm EDT

Jeff Carlson discusses the second edition of Take Control of iPhone Photography, explaining how it helps users move beyond basic snapshots to more deliberate, higher-quality images. He highlights changes in Apple’s camera app, new features in recent iOS versions, and the challenges of hidden controls. The part of the conversation emphasizes understanding settings, resolutions, and techniques to fully use the iPhone’s powerful camera system. (Part 1) 

CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://clnmy.com/MACVOICES.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction and new book announcement
[1:19] What’s new in the second edition
[3:43] iOS updates and camera app changes
[5:43] Challenges with Apple’s camera interface
[6:53] Balancing simplicity and advanced features
[11:29] Advanced options and hidden controls
[17:09] Why learning iPhone photography matters
[18:26] Camera resolutions and shooting options
[20:31] Understanding lenses and megapixels
[24:25] Being deliberate with photography choices

Links:

Take Control of iPhone Photography by Jeff Carlson

Guests:

Jeff Carlson is an author, photographer, and freelance writer. Among many other projects, he publishes the Smarter Image newsletter, which explores how computational photography, AI, and machine learning are fundamentally changing the art and science of photography. He’s covered the personal technology field from Macs and PalmPilots to iPhones and mirrorless cameras, publishing in paper magazines, printed books, ebooks, and websites. He’s also the co-host of the podcasts PhotoActive, writes for Take Control, has spoken at several conferences and events. He lives in Seattle, where, yes, it is just as gray and wet and coffee-infused as you think it is. Catch up with everything he’s doing at JeffCarlson.com.

Support:

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Connect:

     Web:
     http://macvoices.com

     Twitter:
     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices

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     https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26118.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:11pm EDT

In this Road to Macstock we caught up with Kirschen Seah, a Macstock regular, who will focus on making the most of CarPlay as an essential iPhone companion in modern vehicles. The session will highlight setup, customization, and everyday use, from navigation and media to hands-free compliance. It will also explore wireless versus wired connections, cross-vehicle consistency, and third-party solutions for older cars, emphasizing how drivers can unlock far more value from a feature many overlook. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:08 Introduction to the Road to MacStock series
0:57 CarPlay as an iPhone accessory
2:20 Core features and everyday uses
5:20 Customization and app ecosystem
7:03 Wireless vs. wired CarPlay setups
9:49 Consistency across different vehicles
11:24 Third-party CarPlay solutions for older cars
13:44 Conference preview and community experience
17:28 Accessing speaker discounts and event details

Links:

Macstock ConferenceKirchen’s discount code is “freepangecoder"

Chuck’s discount code is “macvoices"

Guests:

Kirschen Seah’s background is Computer Sciences with interests in Software Engineering, User Experience, and Mac OS X / iPhone OS development. She started programming with BASIC in 1978 on an Apple ][ and have over 30 years of experience in the field.

Kirschen worked on OPENSTEP (precursor to Mac OS X Cocoa) graphical prototyping applications initially when she joined Rockwell Collins (now Collins Aerospace) in 1999, and was a Senior Principal Systems Engineer in the Flight Management Systems department focussed on the user interface for pilot interaction. Prior to joining Rockwell Collins Kirschen worked at Acuity (formerly ichat) developing interactive user interfaces for live chat customer service agents.

Now retired, there’s now more time to share technical insights on her blog, develop useful scripts (Python, shell), and write Shortcuts. Kirschen is really motivated to share her experience to help fellow software practitioners develop better skills – be that in good design, implementation, or computer science fundamentals. Find her at FreeRangeCoder.com.

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:

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Direct download: MV26117.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:51pm EDT

Digital privacy and the uneasy tradeoffs behind commercially available location data take center stage, sparked by reports that the FBI is buying Americans’ data again. Chuck Joiner, Guy Serle, David Ginsburg, Jim Rea, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby examine legal versus ethical lines, data brokers, and whether public movement should equal public information. The discussion shifts to Microsoft’s rollback of unwanted Copilot features, highlighting growing frustration with forced AI tools in workplace and education settings.

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:10 Introduction to location data concerns
0:11 FBI purchase of Americans’ location data
5:12 Ethics of data privacy and data brokers
6:43 Legal arguments over public versus private data
10:50 Where the privacy lines may be drawn
12:23 Microsoft removes unnecessary Copilot features
14:30 Enterprise and education concerns over approved AI tools
17:53 Closing thoughts and farewells

Links:

FBI started buying Americans' location data again, Kash Patel confirms

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/03/fbi-started-buying-americans-location-data-again-kash-patel-confirms/

 

Microsoft Is Removing 'Unnecessary' Copilot Features in Windows

https://lifehacker.com/tech/microsoft-removing-unnecessary-ai-copilot-features

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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:

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     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
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Direct download: MV26116.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:01pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel looks at a wave of new AI tools, from Meta’s Manus agent and DuckDuckGo’s reasoning models to WordPress features that can generate and publish content. The conversation weighs practical uses against privacy, quality, and abuse risks, especially with AI-generated web content. It also examines legal pressure on predictive markets, where regulation, insider knowledge, and manipulation remain major concerns. Chuck Joiner, Guy Serle, David Ginsburg, Jim Rea, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby weigh in. 

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] Manus AI, DuckDuckGo AI, WordPress AI, and predictive markets overview
[0:13] Meta’s Manus AI agent and trust concerns
[1:07] Llama experiences and choosing the right AI model
[3:48] WordPress AI tools for writing and publishing posts
[5:51] The problem of AI-generated content and “AI slop”
[7:00] Practical publishing workflows versus likely misuse
[8:43] DuckDuckGo adds reasoning models to DuckAI
[9:48] Real-world experiences using DuckDuckGo search
[11:35] Predictive markets face lawsuits and gambling questions
[12:47] Guardrails, sports betting, and potential abuse
[16:20] Regulation challenges and insider influence in predictive markets

Links:

DuckDuckGo adds reasoning models to Duck AI

https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/17/duckduckgo-adds-reasoning-models-to-its-privacy-focused-chatbot-hub/

 

WordPress.com now lets AI agents write and publish posts, and more
https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/20/wordpress-com-now-lets-ai-agents-write-and-publish-posts-and-more/

 

Meta's Manus launches 'My Computer' to turn your Mac into an AI agent

https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/17/metas-manus-launches-my-computer-to-turn-your-mac-into-an-ai-agent/

 

Arizona attorney general sues Kalshi on illegal gambling charges

https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/arizona-attorney-general-sues-kalshi-on-illegal-gambling-charges-172006290.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.

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

Direct download: MV26115.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:34pm EDT

This discussion centers on Apple’s record Mac launch driven by the MacBook Neo, highlighting uncertainty in measuring first-time users. The panel ofChuck Joiner, Guy Serle, David Ginsburg, Jim Rea, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby explores Apple’s quiet but profitable AI revenue, a key App Store legal ruling reinforcing Apple’s control over app listings, and the emergence of Claude Code as an automation tool. 

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] AI revenue, App Store ruling, and automation overview
[0:05] Apple’s record Mac launch and Neo demand
[1:57] Defining first-time Mac customers and metrics
[4:08] Apple’s AI revenue and strategic positioning
[4:58] App Store ruling and implications for developers
[11:59] Luxury tech and brand positioning discussion
[14:45] Claude Code and AI automation capabilities
[16:22] Use cases, limitations, and system access debate
[18:05] Security concerns and early-stage risks
[23:33] Future of AI automation and potential exploits

Links:

Apple CEO Tim Cook: ‘Mac just had the best launch week every for first-time Mac customers’

https://appleworld.today/2026/03/apple-ceo-tim-cook-mac-just-had-the-best-launch-week-every-for-first-time-mac-customers/

 

Apple made roughly $900M from generative AI apps in 2025

https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/19/report-apple-made-roughly-900m-from-generative-ai-apps-in-2025/

 

Musi hands Apple big win as judge rules apps can be delisted 'with or without cause'

https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/03/18/musi-hands-apple-big-win-as-judge-rules-apps-can-be-delisted-with-or-without-cause

 

Claude Code can now take over your computer to complete tasks

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2026/03/claude-code-can-now-take-over-your-computer-to-complete-tasks/

 

Hermès Now Sells $1,250+ MagSafe Chargers Wrapped in Calfskin Leather

https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/19/hermes-magsafe-chargers/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

Direct download: MV26114.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

Brett Terpstra previews his Macstock Conference and Expo session focused on Markdown, explaining how it simplifies writing, publishing, and archiving content. He highlights its portability, ease of use, and growing relevance with AI tools. His presentation will covers Markdown editor, practical workflows from idea to publication, and new utilities that enhance productivity while reducing reliance on complex word processors.

Today's MacVoices is supported by TV+ Talk, our MacVoices series with Charlotte Henry focused on Apple TV+. From shows and other content to the business side there’s always something to learn about apple’s streaming service. Find it at the Categories listings on the web site or go directly to macvoices.com/category/tv-talk.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to MacStock series and guest
1:38 Brett’s session topic: Markdown overview
2:46 What Markdown is and why it matters
4:18 Tools and editors for writing Markdown
5:41 Brett’s apps and Markdown utilities
7:24 Archiving and portability benefits
9:57 Why Markdown is for everyone
11:21 Markdown’s connection to AI workflows
15:09 What attendees will learn in the workshop
17:46 WordPress and cleaner publishing workflows
18:46 MacStock registration and discount codes
20:07 Where to find Brett and his projects

Links:

Macstock Conference and Expo - Brett’s discount code is “ttscoff"

The MacVoices discount code is “macvoices"

Guests:

Brett works as a technical content writer and software developer for the Developer Relations team at Oracle. In his free time, he also a coder, podcaster, author, and web developer.

He develops and maintains a Markdown previewer for Mac called Marked 2 and an automation tool called Bunch. I also have over 100 open source projects, ranging from one-off utilities to full fledged command line apps. You can see everything I’ve worked on/am working on on the projects page. His current podcast is my more eccentric (and often sacreligious) conversations with Christina Warren and Jeff Severns Guntzel on Overtired.

I can be found as “ttscoff” just about everywhere, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Github.

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

Direct download: MV26113.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:47pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel examines Apple’s new unified business platform, focusing on device management, email, calendars, directories, and small-business support. Chuck Joiner, Guy Serle, David Ginsburg, Jim Rea, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby see it as a long-overdue effort to simplify Apple’s fragmented business tools, with possible benefits for schools and smaller organizations. While it won’t displace Microsoft in enterprise settings, it could strengthen Apple’s position in business, education, and mobile device management. 

Take Control Books brings you this edition of MacVoices. Get the answers you need now from leading experts.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction and new show notes format
0:08 Public and patron access to show notes
3:32 Panel introductions and opening banter
8:30 WWDC announcement and AI speculation
9:47 Apple unveils its new business platform
10:35 Apple Mail, custom domains, and small business potential
13:55 AppleCare Enterprise and business support discussion
15:28 iPhone and iPad device management opportunities
19:03 Apple’s unified approach to business customers
21:23 MDM benefits for small organizations
22:31 Education market possibilities
24:12 Content management and future expansion ideas
27:05 Closing remarks and support information

Links:

WWDC 2026 to Showcase Apple's 'AI Advancements'

https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/23/wwdc-2026-ai-advancements/

 

Apple Unveils 'Apple Business' All-in-One Platform
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/24/apple-unveils-apple-business

 

Apple Business Mail temps Google Workspace users with free email

https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/03/24/apple-business-mail-temps-google-workspace-users-with-free-email

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Marty Jencius, Ph.D.,is a counselor educator and technology pioneer who has spent 30 years bringing emerging tech into his field — from founding one of the first professional listservs (CESNET-L) to podcasting, virtual reality, and now AI and AR. He is the founder of ThePodTalk.net, where he produces Vision ProFiles, The Old Mac Gang, A.I. Productivity Workflow, The Tech Savvy Professor, 15 Minute Bytes, The Neo Notebook, and Fade to Chat: Golden Age Cinema. He is also a regular panelist on MacVoices Live!, In Touch with iOS, and The Mac Show. Find him on Bluesky and Mastodon.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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:

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     Video in iTunes

     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

Adobe paid $150M to settle a suit over confusing subscription cancellations. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgMarty JenciusBrian Flanigan-Arthurs,, Jim ReaWeb BixbyEric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet argue the company escaped with minimal real impact while keeping problematic practices. The discussion also includes to Google Fiber’s uncertain future under private equity and likely price hikes. Digg’s abrupt shutdown highlights bot traffic challenges, and a musician’s unconventional $2M album sale sparks debate about evolving and creative monetization strategies. 

This edition of MacVoices is supported by The MacVoices Slack. Available all Patrons of MacVoices. Sign up at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Adobe settlement and subscription controversy
5:43 Google Fiber sale and pricing concerns
9:05 Digg shutdown and bot traffic issues
10:07 Vinnie Vincent album sale and monetization model
14:55 Wrap-up and panel connections

Links:

Adobe to pay fines, offer free service to those affected by billing practices
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/03/13/adobe-begrudgingly-admits-defeat-agrees-to-pay-150m-over-confusing-cancellation-fees

Amazon Prime Video without ads is now Prime Video Ultra
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/03/13/amazons-ad-free-prime-video-tier-gets-a-new-name-and-a-new-price

Digg shuts down two months after highly anticipated return
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/13/digg-shuts-down-two-months-after-highly-anticipated-return/

Google Fiber will be sold to private equity firm and merge with cable company
https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/03/google-fiber-will-be-sold-to-private-equity-firm-and-merge-with-cable-company/

Vinnie Vincent launches $2,000,000 Guitarmageddon album
https://www.loudersound.com/music/vinnie-vincent-guitarmageddon-announcement

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26111.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:12pm EDT

David Pogue discusses his new book, Apple: The First 50 Years, covering the inspiration behind it, the unusual format, and the research required to assemble its stories and images. The discussion explores Apple’s greatest turning points, quirky Steve Jobs anecdotes, unseen prototypes, and the company’s enduring mission. The conversation also looks at why Apple inspires such loyalty, scrutiny, and fascination across generations. 

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction to David Pogue and the new Apple history book

[1:18] How the idea for the 50-year Apple book began

[2:29] The book’s unusual format and non-linear design

[4:01] Apple as the greatest turnaround story in business

[5:57] The story behind the iMac name

[7:00] Rare photos, prototypes, and early iPod concepts

[9:26] The challenge of gathering and licensing images

[11:10] Printing decisions, color production, and book pricing

[12:29] Steve Jobs’ quirky side and the Mr. Macintosh story

[14:41] Wozniak, pranks, and Jobs’ lesser-seen personality

[16:23] Lessons from Apple’s history and enduring mission

[18:45] Apple’s obsession with excellence and product accuracy

[19:34] Why Apple draws so much scrutiny and devotion

[21:38] Final thoughts on the book’s value and impact

Guests:

David Pogue is a seven-time Emmy-winning correspondent for CBS Sunday Morning. He’s also a New York Times bestselling author, a five-time TED speaker, and host of 20 NOVA science specials on PBS. From 2000 to 2013, he was The New York Times weekly tech columnist.

He’s written or cowritten more than 120 books, including dozens in the Missing Manual tech series, which he created in 1999; six books in the For Dummies line (including Macs, Magic, Opera, and Classical Music); two novels; his three bestselling Pogue’s Basics books of tips and shortcuts (on Tech, Money, and Life); his practical guide to the climate crisis, How to Prepare for Climate Change; and his 2026 magnum opus, Apple: The First 50 Years.

After graduating summa cum laude from Yale in 1985 with distinction in music, Pogue spent ten years conducting and arranging Broadway musicals in New York. He has won a Loeb Award for journalism, two Webby awards, and an honorary doctorate in music. He lives with his wife Nicki near New York City.

Links:

Apple: The First 50 Years by David Pogue
https://amzn.to/4m04rJL

David Pogue.com
https://davidpogue.com

 

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:

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     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26110.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:50am EDT

The March 2026 Update covers major changes across the show, including a new thumbnail system created with vibe coding, a move from Mailchimp to Kit for the Dispatch newsletter, and a new way to publish live show notes for viewers and patrons. Chuck also outlines schedule update, highlights the role of MacVoices Magazine, and thanks supporters whose contributions help keep everything moving forward.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction to the March 2026 update

[0:09] Overview of major changes underway

[1:13] New thumbnail workflow and vibe-coded app

[2:06] Using Claude for vibe coding projects

[3:04] Why the newsletter platform changed

[3:49] Transition from Mailchimp to Kit

[6:27] New process for distributing live show notes

[8:00] Early access to show notes for patrons

[9:45] April schedule adjustments and travel conflicts

[10:39] Broader evolution of the show and future plans

[10:57] Purpose and value of the magazine

[13:08] Monthly support report and patron thanks

[14:07] Upcoming April coverage and closing remarks

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

Direct download: MV26109.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:01pm EDT

The Road to MacStock Conference kicks off with organizer Mike Potter, previewing the biggest event yet as the conference marks its 10th in-person year. He outlines new additions including Ecamm’s Creator Camp, a Saturday troubleshooting super session, and another upcoming surprise announcement. The conversation also covers expanded 90-minute sessions, community interaction, pricing, lodging, and why this year’s gathering in Crystal Lake promises more learning and connection than ever. 

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 Road to MacStock kickoff

[0:26] Why the annual preview series matters

[2:13] Big-picture updates for MacStock’s 10th in-person event

[3:51] Dates and expansion to a fourth day

[4:17] Ecamm Creator Camp announcement and hands-on focus

[6:48] Marty Jencius’ troubleshooting super session

[8:16] Tease of an additional April 1 announcement

[10:11] Weekend structure and expanded session format

[11:35] Presenter lineup and returning favorites

[13:29] Why longer sessions work at MacStock

[17:27] Community interaction and the hallway track

[18:58] The annual T-shirt discussion

[21:40] Ticket pricing, early bird details, and what’s included

[25:59] Venue, hotel, and lodging information

[29:14] Registration timing and room block reminder

[31:08] Contact information and social media presence

[33:03] Final recap and invitation to attend

Guests:

Michael Potter is the Executive Producer of For Mac Eyes Only, and the organizer of the annual Macstock Conference and Expo. Mike's love-affair for all things Apple began in his Junior High's Library playing Lemonade Stand on a pair of brand new Apple ][+ computers. His penchant for Apple gear continued to be nurtured by the public school system when, in High School, he was hired as a lab supervisor to help run the Apple ][e lab for his fellow students and their Print Shop needs. Then, further still, in college he often opted to help a friend with her Computer Graphics coursework instead of focusing on his own studies, but only because it helped get him closer to the Mac-lab.

Links:

     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

Direct download: MV26108.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:03am EDT

Ken Ray, Mike Potter, and Chuck Joiner mark 20 years of podcasting by reflecting on how their shows began, how the medium evolved, and why they still love doing it. They share stories of improvised early gear, changing formats, audience connection, discoverability, and the friendships built along the way. The conversation also explores what defines a podcast, the value of audio, and why putting yourself out there still matters. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction to a 20-year podcasting conversation

[0:38] Ken Ray on his radio roots and daily Apple news

[5:15] Ken’s experiments and the staying power of audio

[6:05] Mike Potter on Coffeehouse To Go and early podcasting

[9:14] Transitioning to Mac-focused podcasting and listener help

[11:59] Chuck’s path from user groups to broader interviews

[15:55] Looking back at technology changes over two decades

[18:13] Early gear, workarounds, and makeshift production setups

[21:46] How podcast production tools have evolved

[26:28] Audio versus video and what each brings

[30:07] What counts as a podcast and why audio still matters

[35:47] Discoverability, niche audiences, and putting content out there

[39:14] Retirement, hiatuses, and reasons to keep going

[48:50] Friendships and unexpected opportunities from podcasting

[51:05] Advice they would give their younger podcasting selves

[57:05] Having fun, avoiding pressure, and staying authentic

[59:38] Final thoughts and where to find each show

Guests:

Since May of 2005, Ken Ray has eaten, slept, and breathed Apple news and news related to Apple news in order to produce a daily Apple news show. and he does just that with Mac OS Ken, with content that  includes most stories directly related to Apple, many stories indirectly related to Apple that stand a chance of affecting Apple's business or its users, and tangentially related stories that are funny. A slightly skewed, sometimes cynical, obsessive look at Apple news, five-days-a-week. There are various ways you can contact him.

Michael Potter  is the Executive Producer of For Mac Eyes Only, and the organizer of the annual Macstock Conference and Expo. Mike's love-affair for all things Apple began in his Junior High's Library playing Lemonade Stand on a pair of brand new Apple ][+ computers. His penchant for Apple gear continued to be nurtured by the public school system when, in High School, he was hired as a lab supervisor to help run the Apple ][e lab for his fellow students and their Print Shop needs. Then, further still, in college he often opted to help a friend with her Computer Graphics coursework instead of focusing on his own studies, but only because it helped get him closer to the Mac-lab.

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

Direct download: MV26107.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:50pm EDT

Canva’s new Magic Layers AI tool  converts flat images into editable layers, simplifying design tasks like removing or modifying elements. The panel ofC huck JoinerDavid GinsburgMarty JenciusBrian Flanigan-ArthursJim ReaWeb BixbyEric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet recognize the benefits of expanding creative access to non-designers and speeding workflows, but express concern around misuse, including watermark removal. The discussion contrasts individual creativity gains with enterprise challenges around security, compliance, and controlled AI adoption. 

This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to Squarespace.com/macvoices and click "enter an offer code" under the pricing and put in the code "macvoices" to receive a 10% discount. Squarespace: Everything you need to create an exceptional website.

This MacVoices is supported by HelloFresh, America's #1 Meal Kit. Go to http://hellofresh.com/macvoices10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling
Knife (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] Introduction to Canva AI discussion

[0:08] Overview of Magic Layers tool

[1:09] Editing possibilities and workflow improvements

[1:29] Concerns about watermark removal and misuse

[3:17] Accessibility benefits for non-designers

[4:07] Creative opportunities and learning curve

[5:31] Integration with Affinity and other tools

[6:12] Comparison to Apple photo subject extraction

[7:32] Enterprise concerns about AI control and security

[11:56] Creativity vs corporate oversight perspectives

[13:40] AI governance and oversight committees

[16:52] Information security risks and global threats

[18:31] Role of management vs IT in AI strategy

Links:

Canva’s new AI tool will break your design process (in a good way)
https://www.fastcompany.com/91506292/canva-new-magic-layers-ai-tool-will-break-your-design-proces

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26106.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:06pm EDT

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner discuss why Apple TV+ still feels undervalued despite an expanding slate of films, kids programming, awards recognition, and sports success. They highlight Outcome, My Brother the Minotaur, Slow Horses, and F1, examine how awards signal depth across genres, and explore how live sports, global stars, and the Sports app are helping broaden Apple TV’s reach. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction and Apple TV+ as an overlooked platform

1:04 Why Apple TV+ still feels undervalued in streaming

4:25 Apple TV+ star power and the film Outcome

8:32 Why kids and family programming deserve more attention

11:19 Awards season recognition for films and series

14:08 Tech, Hollywood, and AI’s growing influence

17:27 Range of nominations as a sign of platform quality

19:23 F1’s first race success on Apple TV+

21:31 Vision Pro and immersive F1 viewing possibilities

22:53 Motorsports strategy and the Drive to Survive deal

26:07 Global sports impact of superstar players on MLS

31:27 Friday Night Baseball returns and sports expansion

32:36 Revisiting the Apple Sports app

35:20 What’s next to watch and preview of Shrinking

Links:

Apple Original Films unveils trailer for “Outcome”
https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/news/2026/03/apple-original-films-unveils-trailer-for-outcome/

Apple TV announces “My Brother the Minotaur,” an all-new kids and family adventure series premiering globally Friday, April 24
https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/news/2026/03/apple-tv-announces-my-brother-the-minotaur-an-all-new-kids-and-family-adventure-series-premiering-globally-friday-april-24/

Apple’s acclaimed feature “F1” scores Best Sound at the 98th Annual Academy Awards
https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/news/2026/03/apples-acclaimed-feature-f1-scores-best-sound-at-the-98th-annual-academy-awards/

Apple TV's ‘Slow Horses' Nominated For Two Royal Television Programme Awards
https://appleworld.today/2026/03/apple-tvs-slow-horses-nominated-for-two-royal-television-programme-awards/

Apple TV scores its first F1 victory over ESPN viewership
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/12/apple-tv-scores-its-first-f1-victory-over-espn-viewership/

The LA Effect: Ohtani, Son, and the New Wave of Asian Sponsorship in US Sports
https://www.sportcal.com/newsletters/the-la-effect-ohtani-son-and-the-new-wave-of-asian-sponsorship-in-us-sports/

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, FacebookInstagram and TikTok.

Support:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26105.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:30pm EDT

Apple’s measured AI strategy is the topic of a compelling article by Horace Dediu, arguing that restraint and flexibility may prove smarter than heavy investment. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgMarty JenciusBrian Flanigan-ArthursJim ReaWeb BixbyEric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet discuss the conclusions before moving on to improvements in voice assistant reliability, the collapse of Samsung’s tri-fold phone, and Apple’s cautious stance on foldables. The conversation wraps up with AI hardware experiments, increased Claude access, and new private workspace tools that signal a shift toward more personalized computing environments from both new and legacy players. 

This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to Squarespace.com/macvoices and click "enter an offer code" under the pricing and put in the code "macvoices" to receive a 10% discount. Squarespace: Everything you need to create an exceptional website.

This MacVoices is supported by HelloFresh, America's #1 Meal Kit. Go to http://hellofresh.com/macvoices10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling
Knife (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 Apple’s AI strategy and industry perspective
1:59 Long-term approach vs AI hype
7:00 Voice assistant improvements and real-world use
11:29 Samsung trifold cancellation and market reaction
13:25 Foldables, durability, and pricing concerns
15:54 Why Apple is cautious on foldables
21:15 Perplexity’s AI computer concept
25:08 Claude usage expansion and user experience
26:18 AI reliability and comparison of tools
27:53 WordPress private workspace concept
29:10 Future of personal AI environments

Links:

The most brilliant move in corporate history?
https://asymco.com/2026/03/10/the-most-brilliant-move-in-corporate-history/

Samsung discontinues its Galaxy Z TriFold after just three months
https://www.theverge.com/tech/895879/samsung-galaxy-z-trifold-discontinued-stock-sold-out

Perplexity’s Personal Computer is a Mac mini running an AI OS
https://www.macworld.com/article/3086893/perplexitys-personal-computer-is-a-mac-mini-running-an-ai-os.html

Anthropic is doubling Claude's usage limits during off-peak hours for the next two weeks
https://www.engadget.com/ai/anthropic-is-doubling-claudes-usage-limits-during-off-peak-hours-for-the-next-two-weeks-163645928.html

WordPress debuts a private workspace that runs in your browser via a new service, my.WordPress.net
https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/11/wordpress-debuts-a-private-workspace-that-runs-in-your-browser-via-a-new-service-my-wordpress-net/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26104.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:50pm EDT

A surprise refresh of the AirPods Pro Max headphones sparks debate over features, pricing, and real-world usefulness compared to smaller alternatives. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgMarty JenciusBrian Flanigan-ArthursJim ReaWeb BixbyEric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet also discuss the results of a  teardown of the MacBook Neot hat highlights improved repairability and growing community experimentation. The group also explores Apple’s support of older devices for security and compatibility, and a strategic acquisition aimed at strengthening video editing tools and expanding creative ecosystems. 

This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to Squarespace.com/macvoices and click "enter an offer code" under the pricing and put in the code "macvoices" to receive a 10% discount. Squarespace: Everything you need to create an exceptional website.

This MacVoices is supported by HelloFresh, America's #1 Meal Kit. Go to http://hellofresh.com/macvoices10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling
Knife (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 AirPods Max refresh and initial reactions
1:54 Feature comparisons and buying decisions
6:20 Apple product update strategies
9:39 Neo teardown and modding discussion
12:13 Community response and education market potential
17:47 Updates for older iPhones and security implications
19:58 Apple’s long-term support and motivations
22:49 Motion VFX acquisition and Final Cut impact
24:02 Video editing ecosystem and competitive positioning
27:51 Business strategy and future implications

Links:

Apple unveils AirPods Max 2 with H2 chip, upgraded noise canceling, and more
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/16/apple-unveils-airpods-max-2-with-h2-chip-live-translation-more

iFixit tears down the new MacBook Neo, likes (most of) what it sees
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/13/ifixit-tears-down-the-new-macbook-neo-likes-most-of-what-it-sees/

Apple releases new operating system updates for older iPhones and iPads
https://appleworld.today/2026/03/apple-releases-new-operating-system-updates-for-older-iphones-and-ipads/

Apple acquires MotionVFX, maker of popular Final Cut Pro plugins and more
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/16/apple-acquires-motionvfx-maker-of-popular-final-cut-pro-plugins-and-more/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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:
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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26103.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:11pm EDT

The panel explores how users are moving data between AI platforms like Claude and ChatGPT to improve personalization and workflow efficiency. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Eric Bolden examine evolving subscription options from Setapp, including à la carte pricing, react to the billion-dollar sale of internet tools like Speedtest and DownDetector, and close with real-world example of how hacked apps are being used in modern cyber warfare and psychological operations. 

Today's MacVoices is supported by TV+ Talk, our MacVoices series with Charlotte Henry focused on Apple TV+. From shows and other content to the business side there’s always something to learn about apple’s streaming service. Find it at the Categories listings on the web site or go directly to macvoices.com/category/tv-talk.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 AI model switching and data migration between platforms
04:53 Setapp introduces new subscription and pricing options
10:14 Sale of Speedtest and DownDetector and implications
19:36 Hacked apps and their role in modern cyber warfare
22:52 Wrap-up and panel sign-offs

Links:

Setapp now lets users buy or subscribe to selected apps individually

https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/03/setapp-now-lets-users-buy-or-subscribe-to-select-apps-individually/

Anthropic's Claude can now absorb your past conversations with other AI chatbots
https://www.engadget.com/ai/anthropics-claude-can-now-absorb-your-past-conversations-with-other-ai-chatbots-153201656.html

Downdetector and Speedtest have been sold for over $1 billion
https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/downdetector-and-speedtest-have-been-sold-for-over-1-billion-201741894.html

Hacked Prayer App Sends “Surrender” Messages to Iranians Amid Israeli Strikes
https://www.wired.me/story/hacked-prayer-app-sends-surrender-messages-to-iranians-amid-israeli-strikes

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

     Audio in iTunes
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     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26102.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:33am EDT

Member of the MacVoices Live! panel  dive into early hands-on impressions of the new MacBook Neo, highlighting its lightweight design, surprising performance, and emphasis on fun over raw power. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgMarty JenciusBrian Flanigan-ArthursJim ReaWeb BixbyEric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet cover real-world workflows, battery life, portability, and compatibility, along with trade-offs like screen quality and speed limitations. Find out why the Neo is a hit with panel members, regardless of their use cases. 

This edition of MacVoices is supported by The MacVoices Slack. Available all Patrons of MacVoices. Sign up at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction and show setup
[0:42] Panel introductions and light banter
[6:06] Introducing the MacBook Neo discussion
[6:39] First impressions and “fun factor”
[7:40] Keyboard, design, and usability
[8:22] Comparing past Macs and portability
[9:49] Workflow flexibility and limitations
[11:24] Performance and A18 processor discussion
[12:49] Weight, travel use, and expectations
[13:08] Real-world workday testing
[14:21] External displays and classroom use
[15:48] Color options and personalization
[17:50] Target audience and “fun” positioning
[19:26] Community feedback and early reactions
[20:54] Wrap-up and support information

Links:

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26101.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:59pm EDT

The opening discussion centers on restrictions affecting ByteDance apps and what that means for users and updates. Chuck JoinerDavid Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, and Brian Flanigan-Arthurs also explore Apple TV production strategies, industry tensions over AI policy, and the rise of “cosmic orange” as a tech trend. The panel also discusses the credibility Tim Sweeney in relation to the settlement with Google, as well as social media bans for teens and the continued expansion of predictive markets. 

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

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction and topic overview
0:08 ByteDance app restrictions and implications
3:20 Apple TV and Silo production strategy
6:42 Industry concerns over AI policy decisions
9:44 Cosmic orange trend and iPhone design influence
10:54 CleanMyMac sponsor message
12:37 Tim Sweeney controversy and credibility debate
16:40 Social media age restrictions and global policy
20:39 Predictive markets and campus betting concerns
27:12 Wrap-up and closing remarks

Links:

Apple US Reportedly Blocking Downloads of ByteDance-Owned Apps
https://www.mactrast.com/2026/03/apple-us-reportedly-blocking-downloads-of-bytedance-owned-apps/

Silo gets exciting update ahead of season 3’s release
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/06/silo-gets-exciting-update-ahead-of-season-3s-release/

Industry group representing Apple voices concern to Pentagon over Anthropic ban
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/04/industry-group-representing-apple-voices-concern-to-pentagon-over-anthropic-ban/

Cosmic Orange is the new black, as competitors copy the color
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/09/cosmic-orange-is-the-new-black-as-competitors-copy-the-color/

Tim Sweeney signed away his right to criticize Google’s app store until 2032
https://www.theverge.com/news/889595/tim-sweeney-signed-away-his-right-to-criticize-google-until-2032

Indonesia announces a social media ban for anyone under 16
https://www.engadget.com/social-media/indonesia-announces-a-social-media-ban-for-anyone-under-16-174634956.html

‘Is This Insider Information?’ The Prediction Market Bets Driving a Campus Frenzy
https://www.wsj.com/business/media/prediction-markets-campus-e57cd19f?st=3t9gcZ&reflink=article_copyURL_share

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26100.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:06pm EDT

A new weather app from the Dark Sky team sparks mixed reactions from Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, and Brian Flanigan-Arthurs. The panel explores its predictive modeling, interface, and subscription models and privacy tradeoffs DuckDuckGo’s AI image tool, growing concerns around data usage, surveillance, smart devices, and recent Microsoft’s AI missteps add to the discussion on trust and responsibility. 

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

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction and topic overview
0:08 Acme Weather app first impressions
2:28 Weather prediction models and accuracy discussion
3:27 Subscription models and privacy implications
4:51 Interface critiques and app comparisons
8:47 DuckDuckGo AI image editing tool
10:31 CleanMyMac sponsor message
10:58 Data privacy and legal evidence concerns
12:02 AI music generation with Gemini
12:53 Smart glasses, detection apps, and surveillance awareness
18:56 Microsoft AI controversies and Copilot issue
21:30 Wrap-up and panel sign-offs

Links:

New ‘Acme Weather’ app from Dark Sky creators wants to fix weather apps’ biggest problem
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/23/new-weather-app-from-dark-sky-forecasts/

DuckDuckGo rolls out AI-powered image editing on Duck.ai
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/19/duckduckgo-rolls-out-ai-powered-image-editing-on-duck-ai/

Police are finding suspects based on their online searches as courts weigh privacy concerns
https://apnews.com/article/google-reverse-keyword-search-privacy-c5a0bc6f3790213f92e78aae720d2379

'This is very serious': Judge threatens AI glasses wearers with contempt during Mark Zuckerberg's testimony
https://www.fastcompany.com/91495248/meta-ai-glasses-court-judge-threatens-wearers-contempt-mark-zuckerberg-testimony

This App Will Detect People Wearing Smart Glasses Near You
https://lifehacker.com/tech/use-this-app-to-know-whether-someone-is-wearing-smart-glasses

Mark Zuckerberg testifies in social media addiction trial that Meta just wants Instagram to be 'useful'
https://www.engadget.com/social-media/mark-zuckerberg-testifies-in-social-media-addiction-trial-that-meta-just-wants-instagram-to-be-useful-234332316.html

Microsoft says bug causes Copilot to summarize confidential emails
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-says-bug-causes-copilot-to-summarize-confidential-emails/

Microsoft deletes blog telling users to train AI on pirated Harry Potter books
https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/02/microsoft-removes-guide-on-how-to-train-llms-on-pirated-harry-potter-books/

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26099.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:57pm EDT

An update on the ongoing legal controversy surrounding tech leaker John Prosser kicks off this MacVoices Live!. Chuck JoinerDavid Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, and Brian Flanigan-Arthurs look at Apple’s potential U.S. manufacturing of the Mac mini and what that could mean for production, tariffs, and supply chains. The group then dives into a wave of tech nostalgia, debating the reported resurgence of iPods and comparing it with renewed interest in film cameras, vinyl records, and other retro tech. 

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

Show Notes:

Chapters:

0:00 – Apple news preview: Mac minis, iPods, and tech nostalgia
0:11 – Sponsor message: CleanMyMac
0:22 – John Prosser legal issues and Apple’s demands
2:12 – Panel reactions to the Prosser situation
2:23 – Apple reportedly moving Mac mini production to the U.S.
3:38 – Debate over what U.S. Mac mini production implies
6:47 – Manufacturing details and Apple’s infrastructure investments
8:03 – Tariffs, assembly, and supply chain considerations
10:40 – Chips, Taiwan manufacturing, and geopolitical concerns
14:15 – Sponsor message: CleanMyMac and Space Lens
16:03 – Reports of Gen Z rediscovering the iPod
19:33 – Personal memories and experiences with iPods
21:15 – Streaming vs. dedicated music players
23:56 – Is the iPod comeback real or just nostalgia?
27:23 – Could modern devices replace the iPod experience?
29:17 – Retro photography and film camera revival
32:20 – Polaroid-style cameras and analog appeal
35:17 – CRT monitors and other retro tech memories
36:03 – Show wrap-up and contact information

Links:

Leaker's legal troubles haven't ended, as he makes more videos
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/02/20/leakers-legal-troubles-havent-ended-as-he-makes-more-videos

Apple will start making Mac minis in the US
https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/apple-will-start-making-mac-minis-in-the-us-101000341.html

Young adults turn to iPods and vintage tech over iPhones
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/02/23/why-gen-z-and-young-adults-are-embracing-ipods-again

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26098.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:59pm EDT

The MacVoices panel continues their analysis of the MacBook Neo, pushing back against reviewers focused only on benchmarks rather than real-world usability. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Eric Bolden discuss the machine’s intended audience, its value as an affordable entry into the Mac ecosystem, and its potential impact in education and retail markets. The conversation also examines Apple’s decision to remove a high-end Mac Studio configuration and what it might signal about supply constraints and product strategy. 

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 MacBook Neo analysis and Mac Studio configuration loss
00:11 Introduction and newsletter mention
00:28 Performance claims about the MacBook Neo
02:36 Real-world expectations versus benchmark tests
03:57 Reviewer reactions and performance discussion
05:41 Why Apple emphasizes price over specs
08:02 Entry point into the Apple ecosystem
09:52 Comparing the Neo to Chromebooks and iPads
12:52 Retail and education market potential
14:10 Market positioning and intended audience
17:54 Finding use cases for the MacBook Neo
20:43 Apple Silicon and broader market implications
23:56 Future impact on Apple’s PC market share
25:41 Mac Studio configuration disappears
27:04 Possible RAM supply constraints
28:58 Predictions for Mac Studio’s return

Links:

The MacBook Neo Outperforms These M-Series MacBooks
https://lifehacker.com/tech/the-macbook-neos-binned-iphone-chip-vs-other-macbooks

MacBook Neo designer Molly Anderson is among the new faces added to Apple's leadership page
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/03/09/apples-updated-leadership-page-reveals-renewed-focus-on-design

MacBook Neo will warn you if you plug a display into the wrong USB-C port
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/04/macbook-neo-will-warn-you-if-you-plug-a-display-into-the-wrong-usb-c-port/

Apple's 512GB Mac Studio vanishes, a quiet acknowledgment of the RAM shortage
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/03/apples-512gb-mac-studio-vanishes-a-quiet-acknowledgement-of-the-ram-shortage/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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Direct download: MV26097.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:25pm EDT

The newly announced Macintosh Neo has met with surprising  fervor from Apple fans and critics alike. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Eric Bolden discuss the impact of the low-cost MacBook, and why some panelists ordered one (or more). The highlights include its affordability, potential uses in education, travel, and everyday computing. The group also examines early reactions, speculation about performance, color choices, and how the Neo could reshape the relationship between Macs and mid-range iPads. 

This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to Squarespace.com/macvoices and click "enter an offer code" under the pricing and put in the code "macvoices" to receive a 10% discount. Squarespace: Everything you need to create an exceptional website.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Evaluating the appeal of the Macintosh Neo
00:08 Sponsor message: Squarespace
00:27 Panel introductions and setup
05:04 The surprise announcement of the Macintosh Neo
05:47 Who ordered a Neo and why
07:04 Education and affordability potential
08:03 Replacing iPads with a Neo
12:37 Eric’s perspective and Vision Pro use case
15:04 Early demand and availability discussion
17:47 Price, colors, and appeal of the Neo
20:32 Broader market implications for Apple
22:23 Popular color choices and buying trends
24:58 Color design and Apple’s product strategy

Links:

MacBook Neo Availability Continues to Tighten Ahead of Launch
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/09/macbook-neo-delivery-estimates/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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Connect:

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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26096.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:48pm EDT

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner discuss the appeal of Hijack season one, Apple TV’s expanding availability through Roku, and what that signals about Apple’s evolving content strategy. They also explore Formula One’s arrival on Apple TV, including the platform’s technical presentation, the Vision Pro factor, and how Apple may be rethinking sports access to attract more viewers and broaden its entertainment reach. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:18 Introduction to TV Plus Talk
03:22 The Intrigue of Hijack Season One
04:13 Wrexham’s FA Cup Adventure
08:42 Apple TV Joins Roku
12:13 Apple’s New TV Strategy
20:51 The Start of the Formula One Season
24:48 Vision Pro and the F1 Viewing Experience
29:08 Formula One Accessibility on Apple TV
31:19 Exploring the History of Formula One
33:41 From Roku to Racing
34:01 Celebrating Charlotte’s Book Nomination

Links:

Roku Adds Apple TV To Roster Of Premium Subscription Partners
https://deadline.com/2026/03/roku-apple-tv-premium-subscriptions-1236741570/

F1 on Apple TV
https://www.flatpanelshd.com/news.phpsubaction=showfull&id=1772949127

Acquired Podcast - Formula 1 Edition
https://www.acquired.fm/episodes/formula-1

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, FacebookInstagram and TikTok.

Support:

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     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

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Direct download: MV26095.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:33pm EDT

Dmytro Bilkun, Lead Product Marketing Manager for MacPaw, does a re-do of a lost interview from CES, explaining Moonlock, a new Mac security tool designed to simplify cybersecurity. The discussion covers its antivirus capabilities, deeper malware detection than CleanMyMac’s built-in protection, quarantine features, network traffic blocking by region, real-time monitoring, and security recommendations. Dmytro and Chuck also discuss usability, performance considerations, evolving cyber threats, and the subscription pricing model. 

This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to Squarespace.com/macvoices and click "enter an offer code" under the pricing and put in the code "macvoices" to receive a 10% discount. Squarespace: Everything you need to create an exceptional website.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Moonlock and the return of the lost CES interview
01:50 What Moonlock is and MacPaw’s cybersecurity mission
03:26 Unified design with the CleanMyMac ecosystem
05:20 Security recommendations and system protection module
07:09 Security Advisor and user education
08:22 Network Inspector and blocking risky connections
10:15 Malware scanning architecture and deeper detection
12:31 Interface overview and user guidance features
14:41 Blocking regional network connections explained
17:25 Tracking blocked connections and network monitoring
19:02 Quarantine handling of suspicious files
20:56 Real-time monitoring and scanning options
25:24 Quiet protection vs intrusive antivirus alerts
26:19 Performance impact and optimization
29:34 Malware database updates and threat research
31:22 The cybersecurity arms race and evolving threats
33:41 Pricing and subscription model
36:38 Educating users about online threats
37:21 Final thoughts and where to learn more

Links:

Moonlock by MacPaw

Guests:

Dmytro Bilkun, Lead Product Marketing Manager for MacPaw.

Support:

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     http://patreon.com/macvoices

     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26094.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:24pm EDT

A discussion of privacy, ethics, and technology was prompted after reports that Google recovered Nest camera footage believed to be deleted. Chuck JoinerMarty JenciusJim ReaEric Bolden, Jeff Gamet, and Web Bixby review how cloud data is actually erased, the role of backups and mirrored servers, and the difficult balance between privacy promises and aiding law enforcement. The conversation expands into broader concerns about surveillance technology, online data permanence, and how companies should handle sensitive information in critical situations. 

This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Squarespace. Go to Squarespace.com/macvoices and click "enter an offer code" under the pricing and put in the code "macvoices" to receive a 10% discount. Squarespace: Everything you need to create an exceptional website.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to surveillance and AI topics
00:24 Recovered Nest camera footage raises privacy questions
01:08 How deleted video was reportedly recovered
02:05 Ethical concerns about surveillance cameras
02:22 Corporate dilemma: privacy vs public safety
03:13 Questions about data retention policies
04:25 How cloud storage distributes and retains data
05:31 Monetization and retention of surveillance footage
06:22 Guest departure and show housekeeping
07:23 How “deleted” cloud data actually works
08:36 Backups, mirrored servers, and forensic recovery
09:59 Internal decision-making around recovered data
11:08 Subscription models and video retention limits
12:45 Law enforcement implications and future requests
13:41 Encryption and control of stored video
15:52 The permanence of data on the internet
17:09 Lessons about sharing data online
18:32 Sponsor message and website strategy discussion
20:10 OpenClaw creator joins OpenAI
21:10 Impact on the AI development race
23:01 Limits and risks of current AI tools
24:25 Security concerns with AI assistants
25:44 The early stage of modern AI development
27:14 Why OpenAI may be the safer home for the project
28:52 AI interacting directly with operating systems
30:05 The road toward intelligent digital assistants
31:40 Closing reflections on technology ethics and change

Links:

Google recovers "deleted" Nest video in high-profile abduction case
https://arstechnica.com/google/2026/02/google-recovers-deleted-nest-video-in-high-profile-abduction-case/

Peter Steinberger joins OpenAI
https://thenextweb.com/news/peter-steinberger-joins-openai

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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:
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     Twitter:
     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26093.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:09pm EDT

A new Apple Music Connect as a promotional platform for artists and labels, has been announced. Rivian are launching an Apple Watch app to control vehicle functions despite rejecting CarPlay. Apple Podcasts is native video support. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgEric BoldenMarty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, and Jim Rea discuss all of these, debating discoverability in music streaming, the logic behind Rivian’s ecosystem choices, and whether Apple’s move into video podcasts can compete with platforms like YouTube and Spotify.

Today’s edition of MacVoices is supported by MacVoices Live!, our weekly live panel discussion of what is going in the Apple space as well as the larger tech world, and how it is impacting you. Join us live at YouTube.com/MacVoicesTV at 8 PM Eastern 5 PM Pacific, or whatever time that is wherever you are and participate in the chat, or catch the edited and segmented versions of the show on the regular MacVoices channels and feeds.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Episode introduction and topics overview
00:06 Welcome and live panel setup
01:22 Panel introductions and opening conversation
03:16 Owl encounter story and lighthearted banter
05:04 Apple Music Connect returns as a promotional tool
06:22 Discoverability challenges in music streaming
08:01 Social media vs promotional tools for artists
09:58 Why earlier Apple music promotion efforts failed
11:06 Apple’s strengths in promotion vs social platforms
12:32 Rivian launches Apple Watch vehicle control app
13:43 Rivian’s refusal to adopt CarPlay debated
15:25 Third-party attempts to add CarPlay to Rivian
16:56 Cars as platforms vs phones as peripherals
19:34 Ecosystem conflicts in automotive tech
20:20 Apple Podcasts adds video support
21:20 Early impressions of video podcast playback
22:25 Creator questions about editing and distribution
25:18 Workflows for audio vs video podcast production
28:11 Impact on competing podcast apps
29:18 Spotify vs Apple approaches to video podcasts
30:34 Is YouTube still the dominant video platform?
34:15 Early video podcast history and experimentation
35:59 Bandwidth and storage implications for video podcasts

Links:

 

Apple Music Connect Launches as Promotional Resource for Labels and Distributors
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/18/apple-music-connect-launched-for-labels/

Rivian rolls out an Apple Watch app with vehicle controls and digital key support
https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/rivian-rolls-out-an-apple-watch-app-with-vehicle-controls-and-digital-key-support-172642545.html

Apple is getting video in podcasts (at last)
https://www.applemust.com/apple-is-getting-video-in-podcasts-at-last/

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26092.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:06pm EDT

With one day of Apple announcements left, the MacVoices panel tackles rising RAM and storage prices and what shortages could mean for upcoming devices. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgBrian Flanigan-ArthursMarty JenciusJeff GametEric BoldenWeb Bixby, and Jim Rea debate whether Apple’s bigger base configs are simply planned far in advance, a response to component pricing, or a signal of hardware requirements for upcoming AI features like an improved Siri. Attention then shifts to the rumored “Neo” MacBook, its likely education focus, and whether Apple’s new displays risk becoming niche due to strict compatibility limits. 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26091.mp3

Today's MacVoices is supported by TV+ Talk, our MacVoices series with Charlotte Henry focused on Apple TV+. From shows and other content to the business side there’s always something to learn about apple’s streaming service. Find it at the Categories listings on the web site or go directly to macvoices.com/category/tv-talk.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Opening and sponsor message
00:35 RAM and storage shortages, pricing pressure
01:24 Is Apple getting ahead of inflation?
01:47 Product pipeline timing vs component leverage
02:35 Base specs as AI/Siri requirements signal
03:08 Apple margins on memory and supply resilience
04:34 What’s left in announcement week?
05:50 “Neo” expectations and possible in-store focus
06:45 Neo accessories and color speculation
08:10 What people want from a small MacBook
09:56 Education market and Chromebook replacement angle
10:45 New Studio Display/XDR compatibility limits
11:22 Refresh-rate requirements and OS minimums
12:19 “It’s a monitor”—why the requirements feel odd
13:30 Impact on PC users and product niche concerns
14:14 Long-term worries: minimum today, maximum later
16:02 Keeping monitors for years vs forced upgrades
17:34 Daisy-chaining and monitor feature discussion
19:16 Desk gear tangent and high-end setups
20:34 Microsoft Discord “microslop” filter story
23:56 Wrap-up and where to find the panel

Links:

Microsoft banned this word from its Discord server. It’s now a viral phenomenon—people are using it any way they can
https://www.fastcompany.com/91501766/microsoft-discord-microslop-banned-viral-phenomenon

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

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Direct download: MV26091.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:59pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel continues to examine Apple’s latest hardware news. This time,Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgBrian Flanigan-ArthursMarty JenciusJeff GametEric BoldenWeb Bixby, and Jim Rea examine the refreshed Studio XDR display, an M4 iPad Air update, and the iPhone 17e. The crew debates whether premium displays justify their cost, why “pro” products struggle with mainstream perception, and how the iPad Air fits real workflows. They also praise the 17e’s value, especially MagSafe and higher base storage, and speculate that rising base specs may be preparing for a smarter Siri. 

This edition of MacVoices is supported by MacVoices Magazine, our free magazine on Flipboard. Updated daily with the best articles on the web to help you do more with your Apple gear and adjacent tech, access MacVoices Magazine content on Flipboard, on the web, or in your favorite RSS reader.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Opening and topics preview
00:11 Support message and transition to announcements
00:35 New Studio XDR: specs and the “monitor market” question
01:36 Price vs. value: who should buy an XDR?
02:42 Alternatives and real-world studio display satisfaction
03:36 Stands, VESA mounts, and Apple pricing quirks
04:28 “Gorgeous, but…” comparing to other high-end displays
04:55 Pro reference monitors vs. consumer expectations
06:16 Apple stepping back from the pro display space
06:38 Mac Pro vs. Mac Studio: is the tower era over?
09:41 “Studio” devices as the new pro lineup
10:06 Laptops as pro machines and Thunderbolt expandability
11:12 TV pricing collapse and why specialty stores quit TVs
14:46 M4 iPad Air announcement: what changed and why
15:00 Press reactions and positioning vs. iPad Pro
16:08 Real-world cost build-up with keyboards/cellular
17:25 iPad Air use cases: consumption, value, and longevity
20:13 iPhone 17e: why coverage is surprisingly positive
22:19 17 vs. 17e: display/camera tradeoffs, MagSafe returns
23:44 Storage bump and expected sales impact
25:59 Who the 17e is for—and who’s waiting for the Fold
30:10 A “modem phone” use case and privacy hopes
31:32 iPad Pro in daily workflow: Notes + iCloud
33:18 “Base specs” theory: preparing for the next Siri
35:28 Timing, memory pressure, and avoiding future backlash
37:14 Wrap-up and credits

Links:

Apple announces Studio Display XDR with 120Hz refresh rate, mini-LED, more
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/03/apple-announces-studio-display-xdr-with-120hz-refresh-rate-mini-led-more/

Apple Unveils iPad Air With M4 Chip, Increased RAM, Wi-Fi 7, and More
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/02/apple-announces-ipad-air-with-m4-chip/

Apple officially announces iPhone 17e with MagSafe, 256GB storage, more
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/02/apple-officially-announces-iphone-17e-with-magsafe-256gb-storage-more/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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:
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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26090.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:51pm EDT

Shortly after the announcement, the MacVoices Live! panel  examines Apple’s new M5 Mac lineup, including refreshed MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models. Chuck JoinerDavid GinsburgBrian Flanigan-ArthursMarty JenciusJeff GametEric BoldenWeb Bixby, and Jim Rea compare upgrade paths from older machines, debate configuration choices and pricing, and consider real-world use cases such as portability, battery life, and education markets. The group also speculates about expansion possibilities for other Macs. 

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and show opening
00:08 Welcome and panel introductions
04:21 Apple’s week of announcements and M5 MacBook Pro reveal
05:32 Fusion architecture and high-end configuration pricing
06:58 Reactions to the refreshed MacBook Air
07:43 Panelists discuss potential upgrade plans
10:40 Pricing considerations and configuration debates
12:22 Use cases: portability, durability, and battery life
15:37 Comparing new models with existing Macs
18:40 Evaluating upgrade needs vs. current performance
20:38 Rumors of a low-cost “Neo” MacBook
22:13 Education market possibilities for cheaper Macs
23:33 Notch discussion and real-world display experience
24:32 Touchscreen Macs: useful or unnecessary?
25:03 Workflow preferences and external display use
26:27 Potential buyers and color options speculation
27:48 Chip discussion: A-series vs. M-series possibilities

Links:

Apple Unveils MacBook Pro Featuring M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips With New Fusion Architecture
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/03/apple-unveils-macbook-pro-with-m5-pro-and-m5-max-chips-with-neural-accelerators/

Apple Announces MacBook Air With M5 Chip
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/03/apple-announces-macbook-air-with-m5/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

 

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26089.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:25am EDT

This MacVoices Live! discussion centers on Apple’s planned removal of Rosetta support in macOS 26.4 and the implications for Intel-based applications still running under Apple Silicon. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Jim Rea, Eric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet explore how many apps may still quietly depend on Rosetta, tools for identifying them, and why Apple is phasing out x86 components. The conversation shifts to legal questions surrounding pressure on Apple to remove an ICE-monitoring app from the App Store from a surprising source. 

MacVoices is supported by the new MacVoices Discord, a benefit exclusively for MacVoices Patrons. Sign up, get access, and join the conversations at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Rosetta Deprecation Announcement
00:27 Why Rosetta Is Going Away
01:20 Preparing for Legacy App Loss
05:04 Steam and Gaming Concerns
06:24 Checking Apps for Intel Dependencies
11:03 Utilities and Migration Surprises
13:25 Tools to Identify Rosetta Apps
15:11 Government Pressure on App Store Decisions
16:38 Legal and Free Speech Implications
20:59 App Store Policy Double Standards

Links:

macOS Tahoe 26.4 Displays Warnings for Apps That Won't Work After Rosetta 2 Support Ends
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/16/macos-tahoe-26-4-rosetta-2-warnings/

Trump officials sued for pressuring Apple to remove an ICE monitoring app from the App Store
https://appleworld.today/2026/02/trump-officials-sued-for-pressuring-apple-to-remove-an-ice-monitoring-app-from-the-app-store/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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:

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     Video in iTunes

     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26088.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:17pm EDT

Apple has debunked media reports claiming low adoption of iOS 26. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Jim Rea, Eric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet discuss the assertion that the data was skewed by Apple’s privacy-driven device misreporting. They review how official numbers show strong uptake among eligible devices and debate whether criticisms of the new interface are overblown. While some UI concerns are acknowledged, the group agrees the release offers meaningful improvements and is far from the failure some headlines suggested. 

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 iOS adoption controversy introduced
0:28 Claims of low adoption challenged
2:04 Telemetry and agent string misreporting
3:50 Evaluating Apple’s official adoption numbers
5:13 Privacy-driven device obfuscation explained
6:30 Clickbait and misinterpreted analytics reports
7:57 Debate over “liquid glass” interface complaints
9:03 Objective UI usability concerns raised
12:03 Design philosophy and Apple’s UI direction
13:18 System Settings and long-term interface frustrations
15:49 Improvements and benefits in iOS 26
18:35 Broader reflections on Apple UI evolution
19:12 Overall assessment: not a disaster, but debated

Links:

Apple Reveals How Many iPhones Are Running iOS 26
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/13/apple-shares-ios-26-adoption-stats/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26087.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:32pm EDT

Apple’s upcoming “experience” announcements take center stage in a discussion by Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Jim Rea, Eric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet, Possible products like an entry-level MacBook with an A18 chip, iPhone 17e, and updated MacBook Pros are all on the table as possible press release and/or video releases. The group discusses timing, education market positioning, and whether smaller launches signal a shift in Apple’s event strategy. 

MacVoices is supported by Hello Fresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/macvoice10fm to gett 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (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:

00:00 Introduction and show kickoff
02:01 Apple event vs. “experience” speculation begins
05:06 Time zones, rumors, and possible product lineup
08:36 Debate on Apple’s launch strategy and messaging
12:59 Entry-level and student-focused product theory
14:35 Counterpoint: possibility of M5 MacBook Pros
17:25 Education market and Chromebook alternatives
19:26 Audience feedback and topic suggestion initiative

Links:

Apple Announces Special Event in New York, London, and Shanghai on March 4
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/16/apple-announces-special-event-in-new-york/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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:
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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices

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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26086.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:09pm EDT

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner discuss major Apple TV news, starting with the tragic death of Tehran co-creator Dana Idan. They then discuss MLS Season Pass returning with improved access, including  the implications of reduced paywall friction and recap viewer options. Finally, Apple’s sports distribution deal via EverPass and award wins tied to the F1 film highlight the evolution and excellence of the streaming services’s options. Hijack stands out as a specific example, with character depth bringing a different dimension to a familiar genre. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:22 Show setup and Apple TV’s busy news cycle
00:55 Tehran co-creator death and production context
05:40 MLS returns and season/timing discussion
07:09 Messi vs. Son, coverage notes, and commentary quirks
08:08 Dropping the extra MLS paywall and accessibility debate
10:16 Messi’s deal and “piece of the action” question
13:30 Apple TV match recaps and highlights experience
16:04 Deal changes, growth expectations, and subscription fatigue
21:15 Youth soccer growth and the “round ball” future
23:25 EverPass distribution deal and Apple’s live-sports strategy
26:27 Broadcast TV surrender and the new streaming reality
30:29 F1 sound-team awards and prestige momentum
35:13 Hijack season talk and what makes it work
39:59 Wrap-up and where to follow

Links:

Tragedy as Tehran Co-Creator Found Dead
https://theaddition.net/news/tragedy-as-tehran-co-creator-found-dead/

EverPass in Apple TV distribution deal
https://www.sportcal.com/newsletters/everpass-in-apple-tv-distribution-deal/

F1: The Movie' sound team get a weekend of awards
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/02/23/f1-the-movie-sound-team-get-a-weekend-of-awards

Apple’s “The Studio” and “Mr. Scorsese” score at the 78th Annual Directors Guild Awards
https://www.apple.com/uk/tv-pr/news/2026/02/apples-the-studio-and-mr-scorsese-score-at-the-78th-annual-directors-guild-awards/

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, FacebookInstagram and TikTok.

Support:

     Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon
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     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

     Web:
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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26085.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:10pm EDT

In the February 2026 Update, Chuck recaps the CES coverage, including wrap-up blog posts and a single listing for all related interviews. He highlights the ongoing curation of practical tips in MacVoices Magazine, outlines a new submission method for questions for the Tuesday live show and reviews patron benefits, sponsor thanks, and upcoming plans for NAB coverage. 

Show Notes:

Links:

MacVoices Contact Form
https://macvoices.com/contact/

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:
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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26084.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:34pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel critiques Mark Zuckerberg's blame of Apple for his issues, debate whether music lyrics should be locked behind YouTube Premium, and examines how different generations consume music. David Ginsburg, Chuck Joiner, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Jim Rea, Jeff Gamet, Mark Fuccio, and Brian Flanigan-Arthurs also discuss Discord’s proposed age verification and privacy risks, and their reversal after user protests. The discussion wraps with congratulations to Apple World Today’s anniversary and commentary on Xfinity internet frustrations and broadband access realities. 

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 Zwilling Knife (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:

00:00 Meta criticism and platform responsibility debate
00:39 YouTube music lyrics and premium subscription discussion
09:11 Generational music habits and platform usage differences
12:48 Discord age verification proposal and backlash
15:46 Data privacy concerns and verification security risks
23:15 Congratulations on Apple World Today anniversary
25:26 Xfinity internet reliability and broadband alternatives

Links:

Mark Zuckerberg continues to blame Apple for Meta's problems
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/02/05/mark-zuckerberg-continues-to-blame-apple-for-metas-problems

YouTube Music lyrics now require a Premium subscription
https://9to5google.com/2026/02/07/youtube-music-lyrics-premium/

Discord will soon require face scans or ID for all users, or restrict access
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/09/discord-will-soon-require-face-scans-or-id-for-all-users-or-restrict-access/

Discord backtracks on controversial age verification rollout…kind of - 9to5Mac
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/10/discord-backtracks-on-controversial-age-verification-rolloutkind-of/

If you have any choice besides Xfinity for Internet, take it
https://appleworld.today/2026/02/if-you-have-any-choice-besides-xfinity-for-internet-take-it/

Happy Birthday to Apple World today (We’ve Turned 11)
https://appleworld.today/2026/02/happy-birthday-to-apple-world-today-weve-turned-six/

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

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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26083.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:07am EDT

Unusual Apple and tech topics fill this episode, including CarPlay integration on personal watercraft, highlighting both navigation potential and safety concerns. David Ginsburg, Chuck Joiner, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Jim Rea, Jeff Gamet, Mark Fuccio, and Brian Flanigan-Arthurs examine how Apple Watch and connected devices can aid criminal investigations, and review features that create seamless interaction across Apple devices. The conversation also explores Apple’s removal of anonymous chat apps and a proposed U.S. bill targeting scam ads on social platforms. 

 

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 Zwilling Knife (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:

00:00 Overview of topics: CarPlay, Apple ecosystem, chat apps, scam ads
01:17 CarPlay integration on personal watercraft
04:56 Wearables and smart devices aiding investigations
08:24 Apple device harmony and ecosystem features
13:27 Apple’s removal of anonymous chat apps
22:44 Proposed legislation targeting scam ads on social media

Links:

Sea-Doo thinks you want CarPlay on a jet ski
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/02/04/sea-doo-thinks-you-want-carplay-on-a-jet-ski

Apple Watch data pins down abduction time of NBC News anchor's mother
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/02/04/apple-watch-data-pins-down-abduction-time-of-nbc-news-anchors-mother

15 features to make your Apple devices work in perfect harmony
https://www.macworld.com/article/3000916/15-features-to-make-your-apple-devices-work-in-perfect-harmony.html

Random or anonymous chat apps no longer welcome on the App Store
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/06/apple-says-random-or-anonymous-chat-apps-no-longer-welcome-on-the-app-store/

Exclusive: US Senators unveil bill to prevent scam ads on social media platforms
https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/us-senators-unveil-bill-prevent-scam-ads-social-media-platforms-2026-02-04/

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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     Video in iTunes

     Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:

     Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss
     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26082.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:33pm EDT

How AI intersected with the Super Bowl, from ads packed with generative effects to concerns about creative authenticity and actor likeness rights was discussed by David Ginsburg, Chuck Joiner, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Jim Rea, Jeff Gamet, Mark Fuccio, and Brian Flanigan-Arthurs. Also part of the conversation were the ads for AI services themselves. The panel also evaluated Apple’s Sports app for real-time score tracking and discuss shifting broadcast models as major sports move behind streaming paywalls, raising questions about accessibility, media fragmentation, and the growing digital divide in sports entertainment. 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26081.mp3

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 Zwilling Knife (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:

00:00 AI angles and sports tech overview
04:16 Using Apple Sports app and Dynamic Island tracking
08:21 Super Bowl viewing options and streaming access debate
18:57 Halftime show production and alternate online broadcasts
30:16 AI-heavy Super Bowl commercials and generative media trends
32:55 Sustainability, creativity, and risks of AI in advertising

Links:

Apple Sports Now Supports Golf and More
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/04/apple-sports-now-supports-golf-and-more/

How Super Bowl streaming stopped being free
https://www.fastcompany.com/91487813/how-super-bowl-streaming-stopped-being-free

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26081.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:03pm EDT

The panel starts out by discussing a major deal for Apple TV and what it could mean for their content ambitions. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, Web Bixby, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, and Norbert Frassa debate encryption initiatives, comparing Signal and Messages security, including open source, metadata, and device safety considerations. The session wraps with commentary on the apparent abandonment of about 8K TVs due to cost, lack of content, and limited real-world viewing benefits. 

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and show context
12:00 Discussion of Hollywood trends and feel-good films
24:00 Messaging security debate: Signal vs. iMessage
36:00 Rise of decentralized social platforms
48:00 Weekly tech coverage across related shows
54:00 Wrap-up and social media presence

Links:

Apple TV may have found its Game of Thrones
https://www.applemust.com/apple-tv-may-have-found-its-game-of-thrones/

Electronic Frontier Foundation wants tech companies like Apple to ‘Encrypt It Already’
https://appleworld.today/2026/01/electronic-frontier-foundation-wants-tech-companies-like-apple-to-encrypt-it-already

Everybody Has Something To Hide by Guy Kawasaki
https://amzn.to/4atZG7i

The TV industry finally concedes that the future may not be in 8K
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/01/lg-joins-the-rest-of-the-world-accepts-that-people-dont-want-8k-tvs/

Comcast keeps losing customers despite price guarantee and unlimited data
https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/01/comcast-keeps-losing-customers-despite-price-guarantee-and-unlimited-data/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on Twitter and see what he’s up to.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26080.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:47pm EDT

Apple’s new Mac purchasing flow that starts with a base model and adds options is debated by the  MacVoices Live! panel, weighing flexibility against harder price comparisons for businesses and planners. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, Web Bixby, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, and Norbert Frassa discuss supply chains, memory pricing, and reseller impacts. The conversation then shifts to automotive news, praising Volvo’s continued CarPlay support and exploring Kia/Hyundai’s planned CarPlay Ultra adoption and broader implications for in-car software. 

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 Incogni. 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:

00:45 Changes to Mac online purchasing model
03:41 Comparisons with iPhone-style configuration flow
06:38 Business and enterprise purchasing considerations
09:45 Longevity, upgrades, and marketing language in configs
13:22 Supplier sourcing and RAM pricing discussion
18:22 Direct sales vs reseller impacts and user behavior
23:32 Sponsor break: app removal and system cleanup
26:55 Volvo’s continued CarPlay support
27:30 Hyundai/Kia plans for CarPlay Ultra
33:21 Adoption rates and success of CarPlay Ultra
38:09 Tesla, CarPlay rumors, and third-party dashboard solutions

Links:

Another automaker vows to continue offering CarPlay
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/27/volvo-says-it-will-absolutely-continue-offering-carplay-support/

CarPlay Ultra coming to at least one new car later this year, per report
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/01/carplay-ultra-coming-to-at-least-one-new-car-later-this-year-per-report/

Apple revamps how you buy a Mac online, removes preconfigured options
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/31/apple-revamps-how-you-buy-a-mac-online-removes-preconfigured-options/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on Twitter and see what he’s up to.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26079.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:44pm EDT

The MacVoices Live! panel dives into several topics including record earnings driven by strong iPhone demand and growing services revenue and how supply constraints and shifting Wall Street sentiment affects the future. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, Web Bixby, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, and Norbert Frassa discuss Apple’s rare security updates for Catalina and Big Sur, the transition to the new Home architecture, and the two-year milestone of Vision Pro, reflecting on its software maturity and future potential. 

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 Incogni. 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:

0:00 Show introduction and panel roll call
3:30 Live chat experiment and audience participation
6:45 Apple Home architecture transition reminder
11:40 Vision Pro two-year anniversary reflections
24:30 Apple security updates for Catalina and Big Sur
33:50 Earnings call overview and record profits
40:20 Services growth and device install base milestones
46:10 Supply constraints and Wall Street reaction
52:30 Shareholder meeting and financial outlook discussion

Links:

 

Apple Vision Pro Launched Two Years Ago Today
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/02/apple-vision-pro-launched-two-years-ago/

Apple has just released security updates for Catalina and Big Sur
https://eclecticlight.co/2026/02/02/apple-has-just-released-security-updates-for-catalina-and-big-sur/

Apple's latest earnings report shocked Wall Street & tempered expectations
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/01/30/analysts-caught-flat-footed-as-iphone-supply-not-demand-capped-growth

Apple keeps winning today by betting on tomorrow
https://www.macworld.com/article/3042600/apple-keeps-winning-today-by-betting-on-tomorrow.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.

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on Twitter and see what he’s up to.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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

Direct download: MV26078.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:48pm EDT

Chuck Joiner and Norbert Frassa wrap up the MacVoices CES 2026 coverage with the Silicon Valley Macintosh User Group, sharing what stood out and how 56 interviews came together. They explain the intentional booth picks, the gear used, and spotlight smart lighting, bird-feeder cams, translation, dashcams, NAS, and standout demos like the Antigravity 360 drone and Strada’s remote video workflow. 

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 Incogni. 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:

0:34 Why this CES wrap-up is different (SVMUG talk + edited presentation)
1:57 CES overview and introductions
3:08 Behind-the-scenes approach and booth selection strategy
3:18 The CES interview tally: 56 published, ~5 lost
5:55 CES 2026 size and stats
7:32 Early highlights: security cams and smart bird feeders
9:02 Smart lighting gets better and more affordable
10:55 Drones and the Antigravity 360 “Superman” experience
13:28 Naqi Logix gesture control and accessibility implications
15:16 Subtle earbuds and dramatic noise cancellation demo
17:45 Xebec multi-screen laptop solution and mobile productivity
19:02 Products “invented from necessity” (Strapsicle, Allergen Alert)
21:45 Eureka Park and why small booths can be the most interesting
22:52 Short-form interview philosophy at busy booths
24:09 Select health tech: Luna Ring and the broader trend
25:00 MacPaw’s voice-first, on-device AI assistant (Eney)
27:57 Dashcams, insurance perspective, and Nextbase
29:21 Translation tech evolves (Vasco and voice mimicry)
31:06 Skyted and quieter calls in public spaces
32:00 STM bags, gear talk, and the skateboard giveaway phenomenon
34:09 Strada’s remote, real-time video workflow demo
36:18 ShiftCam lenses/cages for iPhone creators
37:36 CleanMyMac sponsor read
39:05 Incogni sponsor read and data-removal overview
40:46 SwipeVideo immersive/multi-angle event viewing
43:03 RØDE expands into video switching and creator gear
44:26 Appscent’s scent-based approach to sleep apnea
46:09 Elemind sleep/brainwave experience and impressions
49:04 Smart glasses discussion: Xreal vs spatial computing
52:05 MOFT’s origami-style stands and multi-position iPad case
53:18 Shure USB-C iPhone mic and creator audio
54:21 Roam tracker + Find My/Android networks + what3words
56:11 Q&A begins (Rescue Retriever, NAS options, CES attendance, more)

Links:

Guests:

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on Twitter and see what he’s up to.

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

Direct download: MV26077.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:01pm EDT

In a private suite at CES, PITAKA went into detail about the unique nature of their woven Aramid fiber iPhone case lineup. With an emphasis on lightweight strength, premium feel, and distinctive woven patterns and colors, PITAKA cases balance protection, grip, and aesthetics. 

Show Notes:

Links:

PITAKA for iPhone 17 Pro Max Case 6.9" with Camera Control Button, Compatible with MagSafe, Ultra-Slim Case with Caseless Touch Feeling, 1500D Aramid Fiber Woven, Sunset
https://amzn.to/3MOdjoF

All pitaka Products
https://amzn.to/4rEMNgV

Support:

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     http://patreon.com/macvoices

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Direct download: MV26076.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:42pm EDT

At CES in Las Vegas, Taylor Szabo, Global PR Manager for XREAL, introduces their platform-agnostic AR glasses that connect via USB-C to devices like laptops, tablets, and phones to create immersive personal displays. Taylor highlights their OLED panels, gaming-friendly refresh rates, Bose-integrated audio, and comfortable design. XREAL has multiple models and pricing tiers, including a new partnership geared to gamers. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

Links:

XREAL One Pro AR Glasses with X1 Chip, Native 3 DoF, X-Prism Optics, 3D Mode, 57°FOV 171" 120Hz FHD Display, XR Glasses
https://amzn.to/46PB7iF

XREAL 1S AR Glasses, 500" Virtual Screen Smart Glasses with 52° FOV, Native 3DoF, 3D Mode, Powered by X1 Chip, Supports All USB-C DP Devices
https://amzn.to/4qEhots

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Direct download: MV26075.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:17am EDT

At CES in Las Vegas, Alex Page, Head of Marketing, North America, Latin America for
 RØDE, unveils the RØDECaster Video Core, a multi-camera switcher designed to integrate seamlessly with existing RØDE audio gear for streamlined production. Automatic switching, real-time effects, and smartphone video transmission are joined by new colorful clip-on mics and the Go Gen 3, all aimed at making professional-grade content creation more accessible and visually distinctive. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:11 Introduction to RØDE at CES
02:03 New RØDECaster Video Core Features
04:20 Colorful Innovations for Content Creators
06:30 Pricing and Availability of RØDE Products
08:53 Closing Remarks and Show Wrap-Up

Links:

RØDE RØDECaster Pro II All-in-One Production Solution for Podcasting, Streaming, Music Production and Content Creation
https://amzn.to/4qztxjg

RØDE Wireless Micro - Compact Wireless Microphone, Two Mics with Charge Case
https://amzn.to/4qrVSrH

RØDE Interview GO Handheld Adaptor for RØDE Wireless Microphones
https://amzn.to/4qu94MN

RØDE Wireless GO III (Gen 3) – Compact Wireless Mic – Pristine Audio, 32-bit Float Recording, Automatic Level Control, for Phones, Cameras and Computers
https://amzn.to/4rexBXh

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Direct download: MV26074.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:35pm EDT

Charlotte Henry and Chuck Joiner discuss Apple’s evolving media strategy, starting with Super Bowl reactions, AI-heavy commercials, and Apple Music’s halftime show sponsorship. They debate whether Apple should deepen ties to major events, examine new Apple TV announcements and upfront-style promotion, including a live event,, and explore the balance between original programming and novel adaptations as competition intensifies in the streaming landscape. 

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:04 Introduction to TV Plus Talk
01:18 Super Bowl Reactions and AI-Focused Commercials
07:44 Apple Music Halftime Show and Event Strategy
15:56 Utah Mobile OS Debate and Industry Context
22:41 AI-Generated Presentations and Podcasts Debate
33:29 Closing Thoughts on AI and Media Production
30:54 Streaming Landscape and Consolidation Pressures
33:52 Upcoming Apple TV+ Shows and Watchlist Picks

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, FacebookInstagram and TikTok.

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Direct download: MV26073.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:24pm EDT

At CES in Las Vegas, Nextbase Senior Vice President Dustin Allred spotlights their OEM partnerships with car manufacturers, bringing true dashcam technology as dealer-installed accessories integrated directly into new vehicles. The discussion explains how low-profile designs, shared mobile apps, and advanced features like parking, witness, and guardian modes expand awareness while complementing retail models such as Pico, which targets phone-centric users with easy sharing and streamlined operation. With a wide variety price points and feature sets, Nextbase makes it easy to get a dashcam that suits your needs. 

Show Notes:

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Direct download: MV26072.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:41am EDT

Meta’s subscription experiments, Epic’s financial deal with Google and antitrust implications top the list of items addressed in this MacVoices Live! show. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-ArthursMarty JenciusJim ReaNorbert FrassaGuy Serle, Jeff Gamet, and Eric Bolden discuss concerns about AI guidelines and chatbot impacts on mental health, and the evolving future of platforms like Vimeo since their acquisition. The conversation also touches on foldable phone pricing and broader industry shifts shaping user experiences and competition. 

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:

00:05 Introduction and overview
07:38 Meta’s subscription plans debate
09:54 Epic Games and Google deal implications
11:02 Concerns about AI guidelines and Claude
21:09 Chatbots and mental health discussion
26:55 Squarespace sponsor segment
28:37 Vimeo’s future and market positioning
30:21 Galaxy Z tri-fold pricing analysis
35:02 Closing thoughts and wrap-up

Links:

Meta to test premium subscriptions on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp | TechCrunch
https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/26/meta-to-test-premium-subscriptions-on-instagram-facebook-and-whatsapp/

Meta Is Being Sued Over Whether WhatsApp Really Encrypts Your Messages
https://lifehacker.com/tech/meta-sued-whatsapp-encryption-claimsl

Anthropic rewrites Claude’s guiding principles—and entertains the idea that its AI might have ‘some kind of consciousness or moral status’
https://fortune.com/2026/01/21/anthropic-claude-ai-chatbot-new-rules-safety-consciousness/

A-List creatives sign up to fight AI, say it enables 'theft at a grand scale'
https://www.engadget.com/ai/a-list-creatives-sign-up-to-fight-ai-say-it-enables-theft-at-a-grand-scale-140000475.html

TikTok is officially US-owned for American users, here’s what’s changing
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/23/tiktok-is-officially-us-owned-for-american-users-heres-whats-changing/

Newsom says California is investigating TikTok for censoring ‘Trump-critical content’
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/gavin-newsom-tiktok-investigate-trump-epstein-minnesota/3836701/

Epic hypocrisy -- Google gets $800 million in 'Fortnite' antitrust settlement
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/01/23/epic-hypocrisy----google-gets-800-million-in-fortnite-antitrust-settlement

How Vimeo Betrayed the Filmmakers Who Built It
https://www.cined.com/how-vimeo-betrayed-the-filmmakers-who-built-it/

Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold U.S. Price Is Not at All Surprising
https://gizmodo.com/samsung-galaxy-z-trifold-u-s-price-is-not-at-all-surprising-2000714196

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on X 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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

Support:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26071.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:51pm EDT

On the show floor at CES, Malindi Strydom, Senior Content Manager for Shokz,  discussed their latest open-ear audio innovations, led by the OpenFit Pro earbuds. With improved comfort, situational awareness, and premium sound in a lightweight design, the OpenFit Pro balance performance and safe. Shokz continues expanding its lineup of wearable audio solutions built for active lifestyles and everyday use. 

Show Notes:

Support:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26070.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:52pm EDT

In Las Vegas at CES 2026, EarFun showcases its award-winning audio lineup. Lynn L., Marketing Professional - Brand Growth, highlight their CEO’s engineering background and the team’s focus on performance and value, explaining how development and attention to user needs have built the brand’s reputation. Pricing and availability are positioned to make their premium audio features accessible to a wider audience. 

Show Notes:

Links:

EarFun on Amazon
https://www.myearfun.com/

Support:

     Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon
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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26069.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:49pm EDT

A multi-topic discussion in this MacVoices Live! session starts with a Luxshare cyberattack that may have exposed Apple product plans, raising concerns about ransom demands and security implications. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-ArthursMarty JenciusJim ReaNorbert FrassaGuy Serle, Jeff Gamet, and Eric Bolden also examine Camo’s lawsuit against Apple over Continuity Camera, Utah’s proposal to make Android its official OS, Pantone’s affordable color-matching kit, and Adobe Acrobat’s AI-generated presentations and “podcasts,” debating the value and risks of AI-created media. 

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:

00:30 Luxshare cyberattack and Apple product leaks
05:45 Camo lawsuit against Apple
15:56 Utah’s Android “official OS” proposal
17:48 Pantone’s affordable color-matching kit
22:41 Adobe AI presentations and audio generation
33:29 Broader thoughts on AI and media creation

Links:

Apple's Secret Product Plans Stolen in Luxshare Cyberattack
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/21/apple-product-plans-stolen-in-luxshare-cyberattack/

Camo developer sues Apple for copying its tech with Continuity Camera
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/27/camo-developer-sues-apple-for-copying-its-tech-with-continuity-camera/

Utah senator has nothing better to do than officially troll iPhone users
https://www.macworld.com/article/3040234/utah-senator-has-nothing-better-to-do-than-officially-troll-iphone-users.html

Pantone just made a color matching starter kit for only $99
https://www.fastcompany.com/91478571/pantone-capsule-the-ultimate-color-matching-starter-kit

Adobe Acrobat can now generate presentations and audio podcasts from your documents
https://www.engadget.com/ai/adobe-acrobat-can-now-generate-presentations-and-audio-podcasts-from-your-documents-140000146.htm

Guests:

 

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on X 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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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

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Direct download: MV26068.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:00pm EDT

On the show floor at CES in Las Vegas, Ohsnap Industrial Design Engineer James Stone demos MCON, their  slide-out, pocketable mobile gaming controller that automatically connects to your iPhone for instant play. It supports low-latency casting to a big screen via dock or portable HDMI adapter, delivering console-style gaming anywhere. 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26067.mp3

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Direct download: MV26067.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:16pm EDT

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, MOFT unveils trackable phone accessories that integrate Find My technology into its signature origami-inspired Snap-On wallets, tripods, and stands. PR Manager Kristina Ratliff walks us through the features that include echargeable and louder than typical trackers and how all the new designs blend function with style. The lineup also expands dynamic iPad folios and colorful carry sleeves, reflecting MOFT’s lightweight, “invisible design” philosophy. 

Show Notes:

Links:

MOFT Dynamic Folio Case for iPad Air
https://amzn.to/3Zp7Jfj

MOFT Laptop Carry Sleeve, 2-in-1 Laptop Bag & Stand for 14" MacBook
https://amzn.to/45VE4xV

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Direct download: MV26066.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:50am EDT

At CES in Las Vegas Jack (Xiang) Liu, Head of International Public Relations for Baseus, showcased their expanding lineup across charging, audio, and security, emphasizing products that balance “practical and beautiful” design with accessible pricing. Highlights include Bose-collaboration Inspire headphones, smart dual-lens solar security cameras with AI detection, and two compact Picogo Apple-focused chargers: a Qi 2.2 power bank with fast wired output and an ultra-small 10,000mAh model with display and built-in cable. 

Show Notes:

Links:

Baseus on Amazon
https://amzn.to/4aFXwBj

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Direct download: MV26065.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:26pm EDT

Belkin is ending support for most Wemo smart home devices, raising fresh concerns about IoT e-waste and long-term reliability. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-ArthursMarty JenciusJim ReaNorbert FrassaGuy Serle, Jeff Gamet, and Eric Bolden also react to a new generation of AirTags with louder alerts and longer range, share real-world tracking and wallet stories, and explains Apple Cash’s higher instant transfer fees. 

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:

00:28 Welcome and panel intro
09:19 Wemo support shutdown and what still works
12:50 Standards-based devices and open-source alternatives
16:07 Sponsor message
17:44 New AirTags: louder sound, longer range, setup requirements
23:10 Real-world “unknown AirTag” tracking alert story
25:23 Wallet trackers and bag-tracking use cases
28:48 Apple Cash instant transfer fee increase explained

Links:

PSA: Belkin ending support for most Wemo smart home accessories this week
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/27/psa-belkin-ending-support-for-most-wemo-smart-home-accessories-this-week/

Bose made the consumer friendly move to open source its SoundTouch speakers
https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/bose-made-the-consumer-friendly-move-to-open-source-its-soundtouch-speakers-163459024.html

Apple Unveils New AirTag With Longer Range, Louder Speaker, and More
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/26/apple-announces-new-airtag/

Apple Cash Users Will See Instant Transfer Fees Increase in February
https://www.mactrast.com/2026/01/apple-cash-users-will-see-instant-transfer-fees-increase-in-february/

Guests:

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

 

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on X 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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @Macparrot@mastodon.social, and find everything at VertShark.com.

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Direct download: MV26064.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:20am EDT

From CES 2026, Vanessa Ng, Marketing Specialist for Aukey, introduces the MagFusion Ark, a CES Innovation Award–winning modular charging system. The 6-in-1 design uses detachable receiver power banks that recharge wirelessly on a central hub, letting users power devices throughout the home. Featuring Qi 2.2 fast charging, active cooling, and multiple charging pad options, the system delivers a flexible option for those with multiple devices. 

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Direct download: MV26063.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:08pm EDT

At CES in Las Vegas, Mayxi Ma, Overseas Product Manager for UGREEN, showed us the latest NAS devices. The include the NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NASync that is perfect for the entry-level user, as well as more advanced upcoming models that uses built-in AI to secure and help organize your data. 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26062.mp3

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Chapters:

Links:

NAS DH4300 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NASync
https://amzn.to/4cpaJzI

Guests:

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Direct download: MV26062.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:11pm EDT

From Eureka Park at CES in Las Vegas, a new portable device, Allergen Alert, lets users test small food samples anywhere and receive results in about two minutes. Margot Roche, Ambassador and Community Manager, explains what it detects now, what they have on the road map, and how it was born from a personal medical experience. 

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Direct download: MV26061.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:28am EDT

In the French Pavilion at CES in Las Vegas Thomas Pigneur, CEO of Solver AI, discussed the Solver AI button, a programmable accessory for iPhones. It attaches magnetically and works with or without phone cases. Users can access up to 1,000 actions via top or bottom button presses, including sending texts with geolocation, controlling ChatGPT, managing smart home devices, and executing iOS shortcuts. Available in seven colors for customization or just fun, it features user profiles for different scenarios. 

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Direct download: MV26060.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

From Eureka Park at CES, Roam is a Bluetooth tracker compatible with both Apple and Android Find My networks without requiring a separate app. It also integrates What3Words technology for precise tracking within a 3-meter radius. Aaron Pollack Co-Founder & CRO outlines the features that include a replaceable watch battery lasting up to 2 years, patented self-attachment design, and audio alerts through Find My. The device leverages cellular triangulation across both ecosystems for optimal accuracy. 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26059.mp3

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Direct download: MV26059.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:55pm EDT

The panel looks at Adobe’s past dominance, current challenges, and uncertain future as AI tools and lower-cost alternatives reshape the creative landscape. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet cover how generative AI, subscription fatigue, collaboration gaps, and competitors like Affinity, Canva, and Figma are changing who really needs Adobe services such as Creative Cloud, while reflecting on historical tech shifts and whether Adobe’s next chapter has already been written. A documentary recommendation wraps up this session.

MacVoices is supported by Incogni. 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 Adobe’s past, present, and AI disruption
01:12 How AI fits into professional creative workflows
03:09 Adobe’s difficulty pivoting in a fast-moving market
04:29 Desktop publishing history: PageMaker, Quark, and InDesign
07:09 Public perception of AI “replacing” Adobe tools
09:26 Photoshop Elements and missed marketing opportunities
12:41 Subscription fatigue and rising alternatives
14:04 Collaboration challenges and Canva/Affinity momentum
17:45 Shift from print-centric tools to digital workflows
22:13 Designers leaving Creative Cloud behind
25:12 Adobe’s legacy status and future positioning
31:31 The Thinking Game documentary recommendation

Links:

Adobe's stock has slumped more than 45% since the end of 2023, reflecting analyst concerns over the threat of AI-driven disruption to SaaS companies
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-01-13/adobe-analysts-turn-most-bearish-since-2013-as-ai-threat-looms

The Thinking Game | Full documentary | Tribeca Film Festival official selection
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d95J8yzvjbQ

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26058.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:03pm EDT

At CES 2026 Showstoppers, Strada demonstrated their peer-to-peer file sharing system that eliminates cloud storage costs for video editors. CEO Michael Cioni explains how the platform connects cameras, hard drives, and laptops directly without uploading to cloud services, using variable bitrate encoding to stream ProRes files over any internet connection. Michael demoed the capabilities, including editing and playback, and detailed the price structure that includes a robust free option. 

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Direct download: MV26057.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:30pm EDT

From CES 2026 and Showstoppers, Matthew Boyer, Global Sales Director for SwipeVideo, demonstrated their immersive reality video player that works on standard devices without VR. The technology synchronizes multiple camera shots from 2 to 30 cameras, allowing viewers to swipe between perspectives during live events like sports, concerts, and education. Using iPhones or professional cameras streaming in 1080p or 4K, the system maintains high resolution without buffering. A revenue-sharing model requires no upfront costs for live events with 100+ viewers. 

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Direct download: MV26056.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:21pm EDT

At Showstoppers at CES in Las Vegas Subtle demonstrated their new earbuds featuring advanced voice isolation technology. The earbuds filter out extreme background noise while capturing whispered speech, enabling clear calls in loud environments and accurate speech-to-text dictation. Co-Founders Savannah Cofer and Jackie Yang provided a very effective demo. 

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Direct download: MV26055.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:52am EDT

From CES 2026 ShowStoppers in Las Vegas, BotsLab showcases privacy-focused security cameras designed to keep data under user control. Ryne Hager talks about the features of the  the W101 window camera, which records inside and outside with a physical privacy cover and local microSD storage, the upcoming W520 dual-lens camera with wide and telephoto views, spotlight tracking, and the optional local network storage without cloud subscriptions. 

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Direct download: MV26054.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:31pm EDT

From ShowStoppers at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, CYBERSIGHT showed off their heads-up display glasses system designed for outdoor sport. Talia explains how the glasses project navigation, speed, distance, cadence, and heart rate directly into the user’s view, reducing the need to look down at a phone or watch. Safety alerts warn of approaching vehicles, and adaptive lenses adjust for day or night use, improving safety for sports such as cycling. 

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Direct download: MV26053.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:35pm EDT

From CES 2026 at ShowStoppers in Las Vegas, Birdbuddy returns with major updates for smart birdwatching. Rhian Humphries, Senior PR Manager introduces Bird Buddy 2, featuring faster capture, an integrated solar panel, portrait or landscape viewing, expanded seed capacity, and AI recognition using both visuals and birdsong. For entry level users the new Bird Buddy 2 Mini brings the same core technology to a smaller, more affordable option. 

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Direct download: MV26052.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:54am EDT

Wikipedia’s 25th anniversary sparked a discussion of its evolution as a research tool and how it compares with AI systems. The discussion by Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet explores academic attitudes toward Wikipedia, the need to teach responsible source verification, and how AI is reshaping classrooms and workplaces. The panel also debates whether AI truly boosts productivity and reacts to new ChatGPT subscription tiers that introduce ads. 

MacVoices is supported by Incogni. 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:

0:09 Wikipedia’s 25th anniversary and community support
0:56 Reliability of Wikipedia in academic settings
4:16 Teaching responsible use of research tools
9:08 Value of Wikipedia for niche and obscure topics
10:27 AI policies and syllabus guidelines in academia
16:44 AI adoption and controls in the business world
23:58 Does AI improve productivity or just speed?
29:13 New ChatGPT pricing tiers and advertising
34:08 OpenAI’s evolving business model

Links:

Wikipedia turns 25 today but faces more threats than ever before
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/15/wikipedia-turns-25-today-but-faces-more-threats-than-ever-before/

OpenAI launches cheaper ChatGPT subscription, says ads are coming next
https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/16/openai-launches-cheaper-chatgpt-subscription-says-ads-are-coming-next/

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26051.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:20am EDT

From CES 2026 and ShowStoppers in Las Vegas, OWC’s Founder and CEO Larry O’Connor spotlights new Thunderbolt 5 workflow gear for professionals. Highlights include the first certified 2-meter Thunderbolt 5 cable, massive-capacity ThunderBlade X12 storage up to 192TB, an 8TB bus-powered Envoy Ultra, a dock with dual 10G Ethernet plus 2.5G, and the new StudioSat hybrid NVMe/SATA solution with downstream Thunderbolt ports and USB-A. 

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Direct download: MV26050.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:15pm EDT

In Las Vegas at CES 2026, Rolling Square showcases updates to its trackers, chargers, and modular cable system while debuting Await, a minimalist camera focused on intentional photography. Una Besirevic, Graphic & Marketing Designer;  PR & Influencer Relations covers the upgrades,  use cases and features of each and goes into detail on the philosophy behind their approach to the retro trend in photography, included printed photos. 

Show Notes::

Links:

AirCard Pro Dual - Bluetooth Wallet Tracker - Compatibile with Both Apple iOS Find My and Google Android Find Hub – Wireless Charging
https://amzn.to/49UOkZF

Rolling Square AirNotch Pro Dual - Bluetooth Tracker Keychain - Compatibile with Both Apple iOS Find My and Google Android Find Hub – Replaceable Batteries, Loud 360° Sound
https://amzn.to/4rztMMl

Rolling Square Supertiny - 65W USB-C GaN Wall Charger, Fast Charging Adapter with Foldable US Plug, Ultra-Compact Travel Charger for Phones, Tablets, Laptops and USB-C Devices (Only 1.7in Long)
https://amzn.to/4buss8H

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Direct download: MV26049.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:00pm EDT

On the show floor at CES Tracy Smith, Head of Marketing & Branding for STM Goods highlights their new designs for laptop backpacks, iPad cases and charging accessories. Tracy walks through updated DuxPack backpacks with limited-edition colorways, redesigned rugged iPad cases with improved magnets and stylus storage, and a sculptural vertical three-in-one wireless charger that blends functionality with modern design. 

Show Notes:

Links:

STM Dux Ultra Case for iPad
https://amzn.to/4qeVPPU

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Direct download: MV26047.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:51pm EDT

At CES 2026 we renewed our relationship with Aleksander Alski, Head of Region for USA, CA, UK, for Vasco, who caught us up on the latest developments in their translation device. He outlines an expanded lineup of devices, earbuds, and software designed for one-on-one, group, and large-audience use. New AI-driven features add cultural context, real-time presentation translation via QR codes, more natural voice cloning, strong security controls, and flexible pricing for individuals and enterprises are all outlined in the discussion. 

Show Notes:

Links:

Vasco V4 Language Translator Device | 112 Languages | Free Lifetime Internet in Almost 200 Countries
https://amzn.to/4af5IHx

Vasco Translator E1 | Language Translator Earbuds with Over 50 Languages
https://amzn.to/3MlGLCf

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Direct download: MV26046.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:59pm EDT

At CES in Las Vegas, we caught up with Serhii Popov, Senior Software Engineer, and Pavlo Haidamak, Product Manager, both from MacPaw, to talk about Eney, “the world’s first Computerbeing,” (also understood as a personal AI assistant). Eney is designed to let users control their Mac through natural voice interaction. Running primarily on-device for privacy, it executes tasks, manages files, summarizes content, and integrates with third-party apps via expandable skills, and is available as part of SetApp

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Direct download: MV26045.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:57am EDT

From CES 2026 in Las Vegas, XbotGo introduces its Falcon AI-powered sports tracking camera designed to automatically record youth and amateur sports. Jordan Sherman, Product Manager & Executive Advisor, Global Strategy outlined how the Falcon uses uses AI to track players, jersey numbers, or the ball in sports like basketball or soccer. It eliminates manual filming and can even condense games by removing downtime between plays. With 4K recording, expandable storage, improved low-light performance, and a consumer-friendly price, it might just be the best way to document a student athlete’s performance. 

Show Notes:

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Direct download: MV26044.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:04pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26043.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:11pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26042.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:19pm EDT

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26041.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:18pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26040.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:11pm EDT

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

 

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Direct download: MV26039.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:05am EDT

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, FacebookInstagram and TikTok.

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l

Direct download: MV26038.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:08pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26037.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:59pm EDT

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

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Direct download: MV26036.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:21pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26035.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:53am EDT

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:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26034.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:09pm EDT

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26033.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:49pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26032.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:22pm EDT

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

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Direct download: MV26031.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:28am EDT

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. 

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Direct download: MV26030.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:09pm EDT

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. 

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Direct download: MV26029.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:11pm EDT

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. 

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Direct download: MV26028.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:57pm EDT

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. 

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Direct download: MV26027.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:28am EDT

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

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Direct download: MV26026.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:30pm EDT

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26025.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:16pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26024.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:07pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26023.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:35pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26022.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:35pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26021.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:26pm EDT

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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26020.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:05pm EDT

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:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26019.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:24pm EDT

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:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26018.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:26pm EDT

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:
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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26017.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:23am EDT

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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

 

Support:

     Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon
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     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:
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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26016.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:22pm EDT

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

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

     MacVoices Page on Facebook:
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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26015.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:20pm EDT

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:
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     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice

     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26014.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:19pm EDT

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:

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     Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Direct download: MV26013.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:51pm EDT

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

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     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

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     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/

     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
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     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26012.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:09pm EDT

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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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., @jgamet@mastodon.social 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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26011.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:52am EDT

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

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Direct download: MV26010.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:32pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26009.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:39am EDT

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 Twitterby email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, 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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

Support:

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Direct download: MV26008.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:37pm EDT

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

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Direct download: MV26007.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:08pm EDT

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:

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Direct download: MV26006.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:53pm EDT

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:

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Connect:

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Direct download: MV26005.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:30am EDT

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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

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 @provuejim@techhub.social 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:
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     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
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Subscribe:

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Direct download: MV26004.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:29am EDT

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 @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

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 @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

 

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 @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon.

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Direct download: MV26003.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:53pm EDT

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!
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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

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Direct download: MV26002.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:13pm EDT

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

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Direct download: MV26001.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:20pm EDT