Rich On Tech

Amazon smart home devices, deepfake app Sora & Prime Day tips (142, October 4, 2025)

4 snips
Oct 4, 2025
Join tech journalist Stephen Robles, an expert in Apple automation, and Mark Vina, CEO of Smart Tech Research, as they dive into the latest in smart home devices. They discuss Amazon's new smart home tech and highlight the potential downsides of deepfake apps, like OpenAI's Sora. Stephen shares clever Apple Shortcuts for automation, including managing stolen phones, while Mark offers insights on improving podcast production with essential gear, ensuring your tech setup is both functional and fun!
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ANECDOTE

Pro Installer Replaced My Nest Quickly

  • Rich hired a pro to replace his Nest thermostat because he didn't want to risk messing up a device his wife uses daily.
  • The installer replaced it in about seven minutes and took a selfie with Rich after finishing the job.
ADVICE

Reassign Side Button To Restore Power Off

  • If Gemini (or Google Assistant) gets assigned to the side button on Android, reassign long-press to 'Power off menu' under Settings → Advanced features → Side button.
  • This restores the normal power-off behavior and avoids Gemini launching on long presses.
INSIGHT

Sora Makes Realistic Deepfake Cameos

  • OpenAI's Sora app makes realistic audio/video deepfakes from a short selfie clip and is currently invite-only on iPhone.
  • Sora's capabilities highlight how easily entertaining deepfakes can be created and shared, raising ethical concerns despite guardrails.
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