Hands-On Tech (Audio)

From transferring data between external hard drives to setting up content filtering on your home network, Mikah provides expert advice and step-by-step guidance to help you solve your tech problems. He also delves into the world of AirTags, offering tips on how to make the most of their notification features, and discusses the pros and cons of using Yahoo for email. • Transferring data from an old external hard drive to a new one and syncing with Google Drive/Photos. Mikah suggests creating a disk image using Disk Utility on Mac for easy data migration. • Setting up AirTag notifications for a lost purse. Mikah walks through adjusting Find My notification settings and creating an automation in Shortcuts to announce notifications when Driving Focus is turned on. • Filtering content on a home network without built-in router features. Mikah recommends using NextDNS to block certain sites, ads, and trackers. • The drawbacks of using Yahoo for email, including security concerns due to the company's history of changing ownership and lack of user support. • Using Telegram safely and whether a VPN is necessary. Mikah clarifies that Telegram doesn't expose your IP address any more than other apps, and using a VPN is a personal choice for masking your IP across all internet activities. Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit

On Hands-On Mac, Mikah answers a listener's follow-up question about being unable to remotely access their friends' Mac after a recent update, why an external drive is taking a while to be detected by a newer Mac, and a previous listener's follow-up question about a connection error they were having with their Apple TV and an interesting fix that was discovered. Judy writes back in after asking their question a few episodes ago, providing additional details to about how, after a recent OS update, they cannot remotely access their friend's Mac via the Messages app. MacFixerDK got a new M3 MacBook Pro but is having issues with the different external drives attached to it. They are looking for any help or resources to further troubleshoot the problem. Nancy is having trouble playing back videos from YouTube or accessing websites through her web browser through Apple AirPlay. Dan is looking to strengthen his email security after being prompted by Google to add a recovery email for their account. However, he doesn't have another email account! He wonders if he should create another email account just to be able to access his primary account if needed. Ross followed up on his question a while back with a humourous fix for a connection error he was facing with his Apple TV. Send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Mikah tackles your questions about iPhone shortcuts, tracking network data usage across devices, and more. He also shares his thoughts on whether it's worth upgrading to the latest iPhone 16 or going with a discounted iPhone 15. Topics covered: - Creating an iPhone shortcut to toggle call audio routing between speaker and automatic, possibly based on location. Mikah explains how to access the call audio routing setting and suggests using the Shortcuts app with a special URL to create a one-tap shortcut. - Deciding between upgrading to an iPhone 16 Pro Max vs getting a discounted iPhone 15 Pro Max. Mikah recommends going with the latest iPhone 16 for the longer-term battery life, latest features, and to avoid potential battery health issues seen in some iPhone 15 Pro models. - Options for monitoring data usage by device on a Linksys Velop mesh network. Mikah is surprised this router lacks data monitoring and suggests contacting Linksys to request it. Alternatives like using NextDNS for network-wide tracking or a Firewalla device are discussed. - Deleting old iMessage data stored in iCloud. Mikah clarifies you need to adjust the message history setting in both the Messages settings and iCloud Messages settings to fully delete old messages. - Follow-up on using an old Drobo device for storage. A listener shares how Drobo hardware failures combined with the company going out of business and firmware no longer being available makes continuing to use one very risky. Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit

On Hands-On Tech, Mikah is back to answering more of your questions! How can I easily organize my apps on my iPhone? What's the easiest way to broadcast my wedding to family members unable to attend it? And when will Apple Intelligence be available on macOS Sequoia? Don't forget to send in your questions for Mikah to answer during the show! hot@twit.tv Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit

On Hands-On Tech, Mikah unboxes his new iPhone 16 Pro, which he just got recently! He gives his first look at the device and answers questions about it. He talks about what's new with the phone and what's still missing from it, such as Apple Intelligence, which is coming later in October. Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: betterhelp.com/ATG

On Hands-On Tech: Why is my iPhone randomly making calls? Why are the reminders I am making on my iPhone being placed in a completely different list? And why am I losing the signal from my Apple TV 4k device when connected to my 4k TV? Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit

On this episode on Hands-On Tech, Mikah answers questions such as recommending a NAS to a listener, why you might not be getting DHCP in your home network, and whether the Upfront Edge program with Rogers in Canada is a good deal for upgrading your phone. Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: betterhelp.com/ATG

On this episode of Hands-On Tech: it's another episode in which Mikah answers various viewers' questions! How can you get photos off an iPhone when the screen doesn't work? Why aren't my smart plugs working with my Eero router? And can I use my iPad as a remote shutter? Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit

In this episode of Hands-On Tech, Mikah Sargent answers your submitted questions! Why can't I log into a particular website? What equipment do I need to get to start using the fiber-optic connection in my household? And, can I send text messages using the Messages app on MacOS? Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: betterhelp.com/ATG

On this week's episode of Hands-On Tech, Mikah Sargent discusses ways to improve your home internet and offers some products to help! Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: betterhelp.com/ATG

On this inaugural episode of the new Hands-On Tech, Mikah Sargent explains what he uses to back up his data and answers viewers' questions about their backup needs. Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Sponsor: betterhelp.com/ATG

Welcome to Hands-On Tech where host Mikah Sargent and guest experts turn tech troubles into triumphs while answering listeners' questions. From decoding the latest gadgets to simplifying everyday tech, Mikah's got you covered. But that's not all! Hands-On Tech goes beyond troubleshooting. Dive into comprehensive tech reviews covering the latest devices, AI, multiples, and other applications. Mikah provides hands-on insights into both hardware and software, helping you make informed decisions about your tech investments. Whether it's a new productivity app, a revolutionary AI tool, or the hottest wearable, you'll get an in-depth look at how these technologies perform in real-world scenarios. Submit your tech queries through social media or by emailing handsontech@twit.tv. You might hear your question answered on air! And, be sure to keep an ear out for guest experts who drop by to share their specialized tech wisdom. Whether you're puzzled by privacy settings, curious about cutting-edge innovations, or seeking honest opinions on the latest tech offerings, Hands-On Tech is your weekly dose of tech insight and inspiration. Join Mikah every Sunday to be part of a show that turns tech confusion into tech confidence. Host: Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit

Mikah Sargent shares his review of Apple's new M4 iPad Pro and explores its design changes, including its new ultra-thin design, relocated front-facing camera, and stunning Ultra Retina XDR display with tandem OLED technology. Mikah also delves into the power of the M4 Apple Silicon chip and takes a closer look at the innovative Apple Pencil Pro and redesigned Magic Keyboard. Get the Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4): https://amzn.to/3KbZ20e Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Find more products we recommend at https://www.amazon.com/shop/twitnetcastnetwork

Mikah Sargent shares his extensive experience with Apple's highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset after spending nearly two weeks with the $3,500 device. He provides a detailed breakdown of the hardware, design choices, interface, multimedia capabilities, and an honest assessment of whether the Vision Pro lives up to the immense hype surrounding its launch. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Find more products we recommend at https://www.amazon.com/shop/twitnetcastnetwork

Mikah Sargent takes a deep dive into the Apple Vision Pro, answering your questions and providing insights into its performance in gaming, multimedia consumption, and its potential as a productivity tool. This comprehensive Q&A session thoroughly explains the Apple Vision Pro, balancing excitement for its innovative features with practical considerations and personal experience. Host: Mikah Sargent Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Find more products we recommend at https://www.amazon.com/shop/twitnetcastnetwork

Join Mikah Sargent and Leo Laporte as they unbox the new Apple Vision Pro and demonstrate the headset! See Leo set up a guest profile in the headset, how to type out messages with the Vision Pro virtual keyboard, and see Mikah immerse himself with dinosaurs! Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Leo Laporte Want access to the video version and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Find more products we recommend at https://www.amazon.com/shop/twitnetcastnetwork

In this jam-packed episode of Ask The Tech Guys, hosts Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent, joined by special guests Dick DeBartolo and Chris Marquardt, tackle a wide range of tech topics. From AI security concerns at the Olympics to VPN travel tips for China, the show covers everything from data recovery techniques to the latest in content creation gear. Viewers' questions spark discussions on photo backups, software compatibility issues, and password manager security, while the hosts reflect on the show's evolution and upcoming format changes. AI security at the Olympics: Concerns about surveillance and the need for human oversight in interpreting AI data. VPNs and tech tips for China: Using VPNs and travel diary apps like Polar Steps while respecting local laws. Advice on using a Synology NAS for iPhone photo backups, including model recommendations and app limitations. High-end Transformers toy: Introduction of the $1,199 Super Megatron with 36 servo motors, appealing to adult collectors. Troubleshooting Microsoft Word issues, including potential causes and solutions for file corruption. Apple's adoption of RCS: Discussion on improved messaging capabilities and cross-device syncing. Data recovery techniques for an old Windows Home Server, focusing on extracting data from the hard drive. Monthly photo assignment: "Weathered" theme, showcasing standout submissions and discussing photographic challenges. Explanation of Argon2 for password hashing in Bitwarden and its security benefits. Debunking the rumor about Southwest Airlines using Windows 3.1 and discussing airline redundancy systems. Challenges of connecting a Shure MV88 lightning microphone to USB-C devices. Corsair Elgato Creator Platform Six table and associated gear for streaming and production. Advice on preserving data on SSDs and USB sticks, emphasizing the reliability of modern storage devices. Running Windows on Apple's M series processors through Parallels, outlining limitations and compatibility issues. Hosts: Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent Guests: Dick DeBartolo and Chris Marquardt Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Show notes and links for this episode are available at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys/episodes/2035 Download or subscribe to this show at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys Sponsor: betterhelp.com/ATG

In this episode of Ask The Tech Guys, Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent dive into the recent CrowdStrike security update disaster, discuss the end of Google's URL shortener, and address listener questions about Apple Music libraries and Mac upgrades. The hosts also share insights on the show's upcoming studio changes and the importance of Club TWiT memberships for the network's sustainability. CrowdStrike security update causes widespread Windows crashes, affecting airlines, hospitals, and major companies Google announces "goo.gl" links will stop working in August 2025, potentially breaking many existing services Matthew asks about moving his Apple Music library to an external drive and keeping the most recent versions of files Leo discusses the upcoming closure of the current TWiT studio and transition to home-based production The evolution of studio equipment and how consumer technology now enables high-quality home production Fransisco inquires about using an older MacBook Pro with Big Sur for online banking and purchasing Hosts advise using third-party browsers for security and discuss the timing of purchasing new Macs Dan wants to know how to best preserve his father's microcassette tapes Jim can't hear the text tone on his Apple Watch and wants to know how to change the sound. Jeff from Michigan asks about recording high school marching band events, with Leo suggesting using smartphones or the Sony ZV-1 camera for better quality and ease of use. Ann from Antioch inquires about allowing Bluetooth permissions for a garage door opener app. Richard from Tennessee reports issues with his new Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra crashing when opening YouTube. Bill from Tarzana asks if leaving devices plugged in constantly is harmful, with the hosts reassuring that modern devices have circuitry to manage battery health. Mark from Racine inquires about Leo's switch from Authy to 2FAS for two-factor authentication, with Leo explaining his reasons for preferring 2FAS. Hosts: Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Show notes and links for this episode are available at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys/episodes/2034 Download or subscribe to this show at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys

Is there an easy way to convert an email into an audio file? Why can't I back up my files using both iDrive and iCloud? Why aren't banks using proper two-factor authentication methods? Plus, Sam Abuelsamid talks about the Cadillac CELESTIQ display and how manufacturers are leaning in more to software-driven features. FTC fires a warning shot at eight companies over 'Right To Repair' violations. Goldman Sachs: AI is overhyped, wildly expensive, and unreliable. This is the fastest object ever made by humans, and it's not slowing down. Toll of Snowflake hack widens with theft of AT&T text, calling data. Micah from the Airplane Geeks podcast calls in to ask if there's a proper lightning to USB-C adapter that he can use with his Shure microphone, which has a lightning connection and no USB-C connection. Dan emails the show asking for alternatives to Amazon Echo devices for his parents, who aren't very tech-savvy, that can stream music throughout the home on various devices. Sam Abuelsamid joins Leo and Mikah on the show this week. Sam talks about how car manufacturers are utilizing more software-driven features in their vehicles. Genet writes in, wondering what it means to "Sign In with Apple" on various websites and if it's safe to use this. Miakh explains how "Sign In with Apple" works. Patch has a 2015 MacBook Pro, and the battery is nearing its end of life, which is affecting some of its laptop functions. What can he do about the battery issues? Jay writes in, wondering if there's an app that can translate an email into an audio file for his mother. Charles calls in with a follow-up to Jay's question and suggests using Siri's VoiceOver function on the iPhone / iPad to do exactly what Jay is looking for. Ken is wondering why he's getting errors when trying to backup his files through both iDrive and iCloud, as he's trying to back up his files to multiple locations. Mel is in the market for a new computer for general computing needs, such as email and document writing, and is wondering what Mikah and Leo would recommend. Aaron has a simple question for the Tech Guys: why do the banks continue to avoid using 2FA applications like Google Authenticator? Hosts: Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent Guest: Sam Abuelsamid Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Show notes and links for this episode are available at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys/episodes/2033 Download or subscribe to this show at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys

Leo and Mikah tackle a wide range of tech questions from viewers, covering everything from backup strategies to AI's impact on creativity. The hosts are joined by the Home Theater Geek Scott Wilkinson, who shares an impressive DIY home theater, and travel expert Johnny Jet with essential tips for renewing your passport online and staying cool while traveling in Europe. Don't miss Leo and Mikah's thought-provoking discussion on the future of AI and human creativity! Google research paper suggests AI "breaking reality" is a feature, not a bug. The team discusses the implications. Mathematicians discover the fifth "busy beaver" number after 40 years. Leo attempts to explain this computational math milestone. Cloudflare launches tool to block AI bots from scraping websites, as 85% of Cloudflare customers want to block AI. Saudi Arabia aims to be the eSports capital of the world with a $60 million prize pool. Martin asks for advice on replacing his Drobo Mini for backing up 8 family members' computers. Leo and Mikah recommend using a NAS for network backups, Time Machine for local backups, and cloud services like Backblaze for offsite backup. Richard wonders if he needs to convert his hard drives from NTFS to APFS when moving from Windows to Mac for his large video collection. The hosts explain NTFS works fine on Mac and recommend using a Synology NAS with Plex as a centralized media server. Jeremy wants to set up cloud backup with versioning for his daughter's MacBook before she heads to college. Mikah suggests using Time Machine locally and Backblaze for cloud backup. The Home Theater Geek Scott Wilkinson showcases an impressive DIY basement home theater built for under $24K. Jim, a movie sound professional, is looking for a Windows word processor that can handle his 2000+ page book with many illustrations. The hosts caution against trying to run macOS on a PC and recommend trying LibreOffice. Matthew asks if using the Google Photos app on iPhone will create duplicates. Mikah doesn't think so but suggests running a short test. Graham wants to play Apple Podcasts on his Google Nest speakers. Leo recommends using Spotify instead since it's supported by Google speakers. Hans, a multimedia artist, shares a fascinating discussion with Leo and Mikah about AI's impact on creative jobs. While some see AI as a threat, Hans embraces it as a tool to enhance creativity. Paul troubleshoots an issue where he's not getting play-by-play audio on certain sports streams through his TV speakers, but it works through his soundbar. The hosts suggest it's likely an encoding compatibility issue with his TV. Johnny Jet shares his unfortunate tale of catching hand, foot and mouth disease right before a big trip to Europe. He offers tips on travel insurance, the risks of posting your info publicly, and renewing your passport online. Vidak from Montenegro is experiencing audio cut-outs when using his Focusrite Scarlett audio interface with his M2 MacBook Pro. Mikah suspects a software conflict and suggests troubleshooting steps to isolate the issue. Hosts: Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent Guests: Scott Wilkinson and Johnny Jet Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Show notes and links for this episode are available at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys/episodes/2032 Download or subscribe to this show at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys Sponsor: cachefly.com/twit