Digest

This episode of Rich on Tech begins with a listener's account of a cryptocurrency hack. The listener, Rich, explains that his account was compromised through an API key that was generated three years ago and used by a third-party service. The episode then transitions to a discussion about the new Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for kids, featuring an interview with Neil Subberwall of Google Fitbit. Subberwall highlights the watch's features, including activity tracking, gaming, and cellular connectivity. He also emphasizes the device's focus on privacy and data security. The episode continues with various tech news and listener feedback segments. Rich discusses the availability of games on YouTube, Philo's new free ad-supported TV service, and the ongoing debate about EVs. He also addresses listener concerns about T-Mobile price increases and the rollout of Google Magic Editor. The episode concludes with a reminder to check out Rich's website, richontech.tv, for more information and to sign up for his newsletter.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the show, Rich on Tech, and its host, Rich Demiro. Rich explains that the show focuses on technology news and answering listener questions. He also provides contact information for the show, including the phone number and website.

00:01:09

Guests and Topics

This Chapter introduces the guests for the week, JP Schmetz, CEO of Ghostery, and Neil Subberwall of Google Fitbit. JP will discuss digital privacy, tools, browsers, AI privacy, and legislation like the American Privacy Rights Act. Neil will discuss Fitbit's new connected smartwatch for kids, the Fitbit Ace LTE.

00:01:36

Tech News: Google AI Overviews

This Chapter delves into the real story behind Google's AI Overviews, a feature that provides AI-generated summaries of search results. Rich explains that while the feature initially faced criticism due to inaccurate and even dangerous responses, Google is working to improve the system by addressing issues like misinterpreting queries and data voids.

00:11:03

Listener Calls: Dash Cams

This Chapter features a listener call about dash cams. Rich recommends brands like Nextbase, Vava, and Vantrue, emphasizing the importance of software quality and ease of use.

00:17:35

Tech News: VPN Malware

This Chapter discusses a major botnet takedown by international authorities. Rich provides information about the affected VPN malware, including its names and how to check if your computer is infected.

00:21:11

Listener Calls: Arlo Camera

This Chapter features a listener call about an Arlo camera that won't connect to their Verizon home internet box. Rich suggests a factory reset of the camera and temporarily disabling the 5 GHz band on the router.

00:25:10

Listener Calls: Password Managers

This Chapter features a listener call about using password managers to pay bills. Rich explains how password managers work and how to use them to securely access and manage online accounts.

00:26:58

Tech News: Fitbit Ace LTE

This Chapter introduces the new Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for kids. Rich discusses its features, including activity tracking, location tracking, and communication capabilities. He also highlights the watch's unique design and the importance of parental control over communication.

00:44:19

Tech News: Amazon Prime Grubhub Plus

This Chapter announces a new Amazon Prime perk: free Grubhub Plus membership. Rich explains the benefits and limitations of the perk, including the service fees associated with food delivery.

00:52:19

Tech News: Google Find My Network

This Chapter discusses Google's auto-enrollment of Android devices into their Find My Network, a system similar to Apple's Find My Network. Rich explains how the network works and encourages listeners to opt out if they don't want to participate.

01:24:33

Listener Calls: Cryptocurrency Hack

This Chapter features a listener call about a cryptocurrency hack. The listener explains that his account was compromised through an API key that was generated three years ago and used by a third-party service. Rich and the listener discuss the security implications of API keys and the potential for long-term vulnerabilities.

01:29:10

Tech News: Fitbit Ace LTE

This Chapter discusses the new Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for kids. Rich interviews Neil Subberwall of Google Fitbit, who explains the watch's features, including activity tracking, gaming, and cellular connectivity. He also emphasizes the device's focus on privacy and data security.

01:39:03

Tech News: Games on YouTube

This Chapter discusses the availability of games on YouTube. Rich explains that there are now over 75 games directly accessible through the YouTube app, with no additional downloads required. He also provides instructions on how to access the games within the app.

01:40:27

Tech News: Philo Free Channels

This Chapter discusses Philo's new free ad-supported TV service. Rich explains that non-subscribers can watch over 70 free channels, including reality TV, music, news, and classic television shows. He also provides instructions on how to access the free channels.

01:41:47

Feedback Segment

This Chapter features listener feedback on various topics, including record players in cars, EV road trips, T-Mobile price increases, and the rollout of Google Magic Editor. Rich responds to listener comments and shares his own experiences and insights.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the real story behind Google's AI Overviews?

  Google's AI Overviews, a feature that provides AI-generated summaries of search results, faced criticism due to inaccurate and even dangerous responses. Google is working to improve the system by addressing issues like misinterpreting queries and data voids.

• What are the key features of the new Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for kids?

  The Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for kids features activity tracking, location tracking, and communication capabilities. It also has interactive games that reward physical activity and a unique design with customizable watch faces.

• How does Google's Find My Device Network work?

  Google's Find My Device Network uses Bluetooth technology to locate lost or misplaced devices. It relies on millions of Android devices scanning for nearby devices and reporting their locations to Google. The network is encrypted and private, ensuring that only the device owner can see its location.

• What is the difference between Amazon Music Unlimited and Amazon Music Prime?

  Amazon Music Unlimited offers access to a larger catalog of songs, including HD and Ultra HD audio quality, unlimited skips, and offline listening. Amazon Music Prime offers a limited selection of songs, ad-free listening, and a limited number of skips per hour.

• What is the best antivirus software for Windows 10?

  According to Avtest.org, an independent institute that tests antivirus software, Avast is currently ranked as the top antivirus product for Windows 10.

• What are some of the privacy implications of using AI tools?

  While AI tools like ChatGPT can collect personal information, they are generally considered first-party data, meaning users are aware of the information they are providing. The bigger privacy concern is the invisible tracking that occurs on websites, which Ghostery aims to address.

• How can I protect my online privacy?

  Using a browser extension like Ghostery can help block trackers and prevent websites from collecting personal information about you. It's also important to be mindful of the permissions you grant to websites and apps, and to use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

• What is the American Privacy Rights Act and how will it impact online privacy?

  The American Privacy Rights Act aims to strengthen consumer privacy rights by requiring companies to obtain consent before collecting and using personal data. However, its impact on online privacy remains to be seen, as companies often find ways to circumvent regulations.

• How can I find hidden games on YouTube?

  Rich suggests searching for "hidden games" or "secret games" on YouTube to discover hidden games that are not easily found through traditional search methods.

• What is the best way to deal with a compromised password?

  If you receive a notification that your password has been compromised, it's important to change it immediately. It's also a good idea to use a password manager to generate strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts.

• What is the Fitbit Ace LTE and how does it work?

  The Fitbit Ace LTE is a smartwatch designed for kids ages 7-11. It features activity tracking, games, and cellular connectivity. Parents can track their child's location and communicate with them through the Fitbit Ace app. The watch does not have a dedicated phone number, requiring parents to use the app for communication.

• What are some of the privacy considerations for the Fitbit Ace LTE?

  Google has designed the Fitbit Ace LTE with privacy in mind. Location data is only shared with the parent and deleted from Google's systems within 24 hours. Activity data is deleted within 35 days. There are no first-party apps, app stores, or ads on the device. Google does not use any data collected from the device for advertising purposes.

• What are some of the limitations of the Fitbit Ace LTE?

  The Fitbit Ace LTE does not have a traditional phone number. Communication with the child is done through the Fitbit Ace app on the parent's phone. The watch is also not waterproof, so it should not be submerged in water.

• How can I find free games on YouTube?

  You can find free games on YouTube by opening the YouTube app on your phone, tapping the navigation circle in the upper left-hand corner, scrolling down to the bottom of the menu, and tapping "Playables." This will show you all the different games that are available for play.

• How can I watch free TV channels on Philo?

  You can watch free TV channels on Philo by going to Philo.com/go/freechannels. This will take you to a page where you can sign up for the free ad-supported TV service. You do not need a subscription or a credit card to access the free channels.

• What are some of the challenges of using an EV for road trips?

  EVs can add time and annoyance to road trips due to the need to charge the battery. Charging times can be lengthy, especially if you are using a public charger. It is also important to plan your route carefully to ensure that there are charging stations available along the way.

• What are some of the alternatives to the big three wireless carriers?

  There are many alternatives to the big three wireless carriers, including MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) like Visible, Mint Mobile, and Tello. These carriers often offer cheaper plans with less data and no fees.

• What is Google Magic Editor and how can I use it?

  Google Magic Editor is a photo editing tool that uses AI to enhance and manipulate images. It is available for free on Android and iOS devices. You can use it to remove unwanted objects, change backgrounds, and adjust lighting and colors.

Show Notes