MacVoices

Chuck Joiner
undefined
May 13, 2026 • 30min

MacVoices #26143: Live! - Apple Earnings, Services Growth, and Why Vision Pro Isn't Done

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 Twitter, by 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
undefined
May 12, 2026 • 7min

MacVoices #26142: NAB - Mapcreator Makes Maps Fast, Animated, and Newsroom-Friendly

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
undefined
May 11, 2026 • 1h 9min

MacVoices #26141: Joe Kissell Announces Take Control Live: Taming Big Tech

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
undefined
May 8, 2026 • 48min

MacVoices #26140: Live! - Training AI at Work, AI Tools, Legal Slop, and Apple Ecosystem Value

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 Twitter, by 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
undefined
May 7, 2026 • 15min

MacVoices #26139: NAB - Krotos' Newest Sound and Integration Enhancements

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: 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
undefined
May 7, 2026 • 7min

MacVoices #26138: NAB - Insta360 Previews New Creator Mic with Graphic Display

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: 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
undefined
May 6, 2026 • 21min

MacVoices #26137: Road to Macstock - Chris Cooke

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: 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
undefined
May 5, 2026 • 26min

MacVoices #26136: Live! - More on Masimo v. Apple, The Enduring Power of the iPhone in the Age of AI

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 Twitter, by 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
undefined
May 5, 2026 • 17min

MacVoices #26135: NAB - SmallRig's Expanding Ecosystem Empowers Creators

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 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
undefined
May 4, 2026 • 31min

MacVoices #26134: Joe Kissell Takes Control of Apple Contacts (2)

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 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

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app