MacVoices

The MacVoices Live! panel considers the most important tech story of the year. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby, Jeff Gamet, Ben Roethig, and Jim Rea look at the past and future of AI and Large Language Models. 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: 0:00:00 The Top Tech Developments of 2023 0:01:10 Graphics Generators: The Future of AI in Design 0:01:33 Apple's Preview of AI's Importance 0:03:16 Rapidly Changing Perspectives on AI and Unanswered Questions 0:04:12 Security and Ethics Surrounding Language Models 0:05:12 CES: The Showcasing of AI Products 0:06:07 The Line Between True AI and AI References 0:06:29 AI: Not a Scarlet Letter, Just Like Any Other Product 0:08:24 AI: Existing Examples and Concerns with Personalized AI Systems 0:09:47 The Issue of Transparency and its Origins 0:09:55 Anticipating Actions: Transparency and Definitions Needed 0:11:32 Internal Language Models: Control and Effectiveness 0:13:21 Transitioning into the Unknown: Exciting and Terrifying Times 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. 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, and on his blog, Trending At Work. 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter 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 00:00:00 The Top Tech Developments of 2023 00:00:09 MacVoices Dispatch: Stay Informed with Our Weekly Newsletter 00:01:10 Graphics Generators: The Future of AI in Design 00:01:32 Apple's Preview of AI's Importance 00:03:15 Rapidly Changing Perspectives on AI and Unanswered Questions 00:04:12 Security and Ethics Surrounding Language Models 00:05:11 CES: The Showcasing of AI Products 00:06:06 The Line Between True AI and AI References 00:06:29 AI: Not a Scarlet Letter, Just Like Any Other Product 00:08:24 AI: Existing Examples and Concerns with Personalized AI Systems 00:09:47 The Issue of Transparency and its Origins 00:09:54 Anticipating Actions: Transparency and Definitions Needed 00:11:32 Internal Language Models: Control and Effectiveness 00:13:20 Transitioning into the Unknown: Exciting and Terrifying Times

A major car manufacturer is moving away from digital touch screens and back to analog for various functions. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby, Brittany Smith, Jeff Gamet, Ben Roethig, and Jim Rea discuss how this relates to Apple's CarPlay ambitions and how other car manufacturers are addressing the integration of entertainment and vehicle controls. Panel members share their experiences and preferences. 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: 0:00:58 Analog vs Digital Controls in a Fully Virtual Environment 0:02:23 Challenges with CarPlay and Apple Music Menus 0:03:12 Tesla's screen-only control sparks debate in car industry 0:05:41 Balancing necessary functionality and core functionality in car controls 0:08:34 Tesla's emphasis on voice control and menu navigation 0:09:53 Comparing Apple CarPlay's user-friendly buttons to other interfaces 0:10:34 Frustrations with the Lexus and Tesla Infotainment Systems 0:11:56 Comparing Steps to Listen to Radio Programming 0:13:09 Choosing the Source: Streaming, Apple Music, Satellite, or FM 0:14:17 Cumbersome Menu Navigation in BMW Cars 0:17:59 Challenges and Successes of Voice Control in Infotainment Systems 0:18:41 Potential Issues with Touchscreen-only Infotainment Systems 0:19:36 Teslas with Screens: A Common Sight on the Road 0:20:26 Tesla's Control Alt Delete: Easy Reboot on the Steering Wheel Links: Volkswagen is returning to physical buttons instead of touch controls https://www.engadget.com/volkswagen-drivers-want-more-physical-buttons-instead-of-touch-controls-044931087.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. 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, and on his blog, Trending At Work. 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and Mastodon. Brittany Smith is a trained cognitive neuroscientist who provides ADD/ADHD, technology, and productivity coaching through her business, Devise and Conquer, along with companion video courses for folks with ADHD. She's also the cofounder of The ADHD Guild, a community for nerdy folks with ADHD. She, herself, is a self-designated "well-rounded geek". She can be found on Twitter as @addliberator, on Mastodon as @addliberator@pdx.social, and on YouTube with tech tips. 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 00:00:58 Analog vs Digital Controls in a Fully Virtual Environment 00:02:22 Challenges with CarPlay and Apple Music Menus 00:03:12 Tesla's screen-only control sparks debate in car industry 00:05:41 Balancing necessary functionality and core functionality in car controls 00:08:34 Tesla's emphasis on voice control and menu navigation 00:09:53 Comparing Apple CarPlay's user-friendly buttons to other interfaces 00:10:34 Frustrations with the Lexus and Tesla Infotainment Systems 00:11:56 Comparing Steps to Listen to Radio Programming 00:13:08 Choosing the Source: Streaming, Apple Music, Satellite, or FM 00:14:16 Cumbersome Menu Navigation in BMW Cars 00:17:58 Challenges and Successes of Voice Control in Infotainment Systems 00:18:40 Potential Issues with Touchscreen-only Infotainment Systems 00:19:35 Teslas with Screens: A Common Sight on the Road 00:20:26 The Speedometer Story: Driving without Knowing the Speed

Microsoft announces the sunsetting of their HoloLens Mixed Reality Headset just as Apple readies the Vision Pro. Strange timing? Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby, Brittany Smith, Jeff Gamet, Ben Roethig, and Jim Rea dive in with their thoughts on why and why not, and what the Vision Pro needs to succeed. Take Control Books: The Answers You Need Now, From Leading Experts. Show Notes: Chapters: 0:00:00 Microsoft's Decision to Sunset Mixed Reality Headset 0:00:29 Windows Mixed Reality Deprecation and Surprise 0:01:17 The Impact on the Mixed Reality Market 0:01:36 Microsoft's Shift to AI and Abandoning VR 0:03:11 Microsoft's History of Misreading the Market 0:05:42 Microsoft's hesitation in fully committing to a product. 0:07:20 Speculations on Microsoft's strategy and internal dynamics. 0:10:05 A Curious Idea Arises 0:10:11 Ben's Intriguing Perspective on Market Share and Foundations 0:10:40 Windows vs. Other Operating Systems 0:11:51 Transition to VR Headset Discussion 0:11:58 Virtual Reality Headsets: A Solution in Search of a Problem? 0:14:32 Microsoft 365: More Business-oriented than Consumer-focused 0:15:43 Apple's Slow Production and Supply Constraints 0:17:14 Consumer Perception: Gaming vs. Other Applications 0:19:13 Interest from Professionals Needing Large Virtual Desktops 0:21:55 Considering the practicality of using headsets 0:23:02 Exploring the potential applications but uncertain about logistics 0:24:38 Medical and technological obstacles to overcome 0:25:12 The Cost of the New Device Links: Microsoft is killing its Windows VR platform — announces deprecation of 'Windows Mixed Reality' https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/microsoft-is-killing-its-windows-vr-platform-announces-deprecation-of-windows-mixed-reality 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. 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, and on his blog, Trending At Work. 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and Mastodon. Brittany Smith is a trained cognitive neuroscientist who provides ADD/ADHD, technology, and productivity coaching through her business, Devise and Conquer, along with companion video courses for folks with ADHD. She's also the cofounder of The ADHD Guild, a community for nerdy folks with ADHD. She, herself, is a self-designated "well-rounded geek". She can be found on Twitter as @addliberator, on Mastodon as @addliberator@pdx.social, and on YouTube with tech tips. 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 00:00:00 Microsoft's Decision to Sunset Mixed Reality Headset 00:00:28 Windows Mixed Reality Deprecation and Surprise 00:01:16 The Impact on the Mixed Reality Market 00:01:35 Microsoft's Shift to AI and Abandoning VR 00:03:10 Microsoft's History of Misreading the Market 00:05:42 Microsoft's hesitation in fully committing to a product. 00:07:19 Speculations on Microsoft's strategy and internal dynamics. 00:10:05 A Curious Idea Arises 00:10:11 Ben's Intriguing Perspective on Market Share and Foundations 00:10:40 Windows vs. Other Operating Systems 00:11:51 Transition to VR Headset Discussion 00:11:58 Virtual Reality Headsets: A Solution in Search of a Problem? 00:14:32 Microsoft 365: More Business-oriented than Consumer-focused 00:15:42 Apple's Slow Production and Supply Constraints 00:17:13 Consumer Perception: Gaming vs. Other Applications 00:19:13 Interest from Professionals Needing Large Virtual Desktops 00:21:54 Considering the practicality of using headsets 00:23:01 Exploring the potential applications but uncertain about logistics 00:24:38 Medical and technological obstacles to overcome 00:25:12 The Cost of the New Device

The GatorGrip stand for tablets and iPhones make a great addition to your iPhone or iPad. Find out how these minimalist stands function in both portrait and landscape modes, take up no room, and represent a simple solution that makes your device more usable. Show Notes: Links: GatorGrip web site GatorGrip Phone Stand on Amazon GatorGrip Tablet Stand on Amazon 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 00:00:09 Introducing the Gator Grip line of stands for devices 00:01:12 Simple and effective design of the Gator Grip stand 00:03:29 Benefits and pricing of the Gator Grip stands for devices

To wrap up the MacVoices Live! holiday party, Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Ben Roethig, Jim Rea, and Brittany Smith critique a company claiming to eavesdrop on phone conversations, condemning the invasion of privacy and the gathering conversation keywords for targeted marketing. Flipboard and Threads moving to the Fediverse, Threads' growth with over 10 million users in six months and where they stand in relation to their competition are reviewed and preferences commented on. This edition of MacVoices is supported by the MacVoices Holiday Gift Guides. Holiday conversations and great gear picks by our panelists. Check them out: http://MacVoices.com/HolidayGiftGuides Show Notes: Chapters: 0:01:13 Commentary on the use of audio in a podcast 0:01:56 Android vs. iPhone: The Debate Begins 0:02:31 Unethical Business Practices and the Stupidity of Bragging 0:04:02 Ethics vs. Useful Data: Targeted Marketing Dilemma 0:06:13 The Stupidity Factor: Apps Listening to Conversations? 0:09:42 Flipboard and Threads Joining the Fediverse 0:11:23 Debate on the Cultural Impact of Threads vs X 0:14:36 Distinguishing X as a Microblogging Platform from Twitter 0:23:01 Webb's abuse in the chat room and holiday season farewell 0:26:47 Mastodon ProView Challenge: Show Love to Jim on Mastodon Links: One advertiser may be able to listen in on you — if you have an older Android device https://appleinsider.com/articles/23/12/15/one-advertiser-may-be-able-to-listen-in-on-you----if-you-have-an-android-phone Marketing company claims it can eavesdrop on your conversations thru your devices https://9to5mac.com/2023/12/15/eavesdrop-on-your-conversations/ Flipboard is moving to the fediverse https://www.engadget.com/flipboard-is-moving-to-the-fediverse-170426320.html Visualizing How Big Tech Companies Make Their Billions https://www.visualcapitalist.com/big-tech-companies-billions/ Guests: 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and Mastodon. Brittany Smith is a trained cognitive neuroscientist who provides ADD/ADHD, technology, and productivity coaching through her business, Devise and Conquer, along with companion video courses for folks with ADHD. She's also the cofounder of The ADHD Guild, a community for nerdy folks with ADHD. She, herself, is a self-designated "well-rounded geek". She can be found on Twitter as @addliberator, on Mastodon as @addliberator@pdx.social, and on YouTube with tech tips 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 00:01:12 Commentary on the use of audio in a podcast 00:01:55 Android vs. iPhone: The Debate Begins 00:02:30 Unethical Business Practices and the Stupidity of Bragging 00:04:02 Ethics vs. Useful Data: Targeted Marketing Dilemma 00:06:13 The Stupidity Factor: Apps Listening to Conversations? 00:09:41 Flipboard and Threads Joining the Fediverse 00:11:22 Debate on the Cultural Impact of Threads vs X 00:14:36 Distinguishing X as a Microblogging Platform from Twitter 00:23:01 Web's abuse in the chat room and holiday season farewell 00:26:47 Mastodon ProView Challenge: Show Love to Jim on Mastodon

The MacVoices Live! holiday party rolls on as the panel discusses Apple's recent test flight data loss and whether it is a significant event given that the data was 10 years old. Shifting focus, Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Ben Roethig, Jim Rea, and Brittany Smith discuss the termination of Adobe's deal with Figma and their fine for difficult-to-cancel subscription policies. That leads to comparisons and frustration with other companies that engage in the same practices. This edition of MacVoices is supported by the MacVoices Holiday Gift Guides. Holiday conversations and great gear picks by our panelists. Check them out: http://MacVoices.com/HolidayGiftGuides Show Notes: Chapters: 0:02:02 Archiving old software and the accessibility of vintage apps 0:06:22 Concerns about online privacy and data vulnerability 0:08:23 The sensitivity of data and the potential consequences 0:09:22 Beeper Controversy: Privacy Concerns and Speculation 0:10:46 Speculation about software preservation and developer choices 0:13:04 Perspectives on software preservation and personal experiences 0:14:31 Apple's stock market success and Adobe's failed Figma deal 0:17:32 Tech Krampus Strikes Again 0:19:07 Uncertain Future for Figma after Failed Acquisition 0:21:51 The Breakup Fee: Immediate Payment Upon Deal Disclosure 0:22:14 Adobe's $6 Billion Cash and Stock Options Impact 0:23:22 Size Comparison: Canva vs Figma 0:23:55 Canva's Expansion Raises Questions about Figma's Future 0:25:23 Adobe's Difficult Subscription Model 0:26:35 Congress should address companies abusing customer power 0:29:23 Xfinity data breach exposes customer information Links: Apple TestFlight servers from 2012 to 2015 leak, containing terabytes of data https://www.eurogamer.net/apple-testflight-servers-from-2012-to-2015-leak-containing-terabytes-of-data Apple Hits Record High While Big Tech Stocks Rally https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-13/apple-climbs-to-hit-fresh-all-time-high-as-tech-rally-extends Adobe's Figma buy isn't going to happen, and will cost Adobe $1 billion https://appleinsider.com/articles/23/12/18/adobes-figma-deal-isnt-going-to-happen-and-will-cost-adobe-1-billion?utm_medium=rss Adobe faces big fines from FTC over difficult subscription cancellation https://appleinsider.com/articles/23/12/14/adobe-faces-big-fines-from-ftc-over-difficult-subscription-cancellation Xfinity data breach revealed: Names, contact info, security Q&As, and more at risk https://9to5mac.com/2023/12/19/xfinity-data-breach-hack/ Guests: 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and Mastodon. Brittany Smith is a trained cognitive neuroscientist who provides ADD/ADHD, technology, and productivity coaching through her business, Devise and Conquer, along with companion video courses for folks with ADHD. She's also the cofounder of The ADHD Guild, a community for nerdy folks with ADHD. She, herself, is a self-designated "well-rounded geek". She can be found on Twitter as @addliberator, on Mastodon as @addliberator@pdx.social, and on YouTube with tech tips. 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 00:00:00 Apple's loss of test flight data and Adobe's bad week 00:02:02 Archiving old software and the accessibility of vintage apps 00:06:22 Concerns about online privacy and data vulnerability 00:08:23 The sensitivity of data and the potential consequences 00:09:22 Beeper Controversy: Privacy Concerns and Speculation 00:10:45 Speculation about software preservation and developer choices 00:13:04 Perspectives on software preservation and personal experiences 00:14:31 Apple's stock market success and Adobe's failed Figma deal 00:17:32 Tech Krampus Strikes Again 00:19:06 Uncertain Future for Figma after Failed Acquisition 00:21:50 The Breakup Fee: Immediate Payment Upon Deal Disclosure 00:22:14 Adobe's $6 Billion Cash and Stock Options Impact 00:23:21 Size Comparison: Canva vs Figma 00:23:54 Canva's Expansion Raises Questions about Figma's Future 00:25:23 Adobe's Difficult Subscription Model 00:26:34 Congress should address companies abusing customer power 00:29:23 Xfinity data breach exposes customer information

As part of the MacVoices Live! holiday party, Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Ben Roethig, Jim Rea, and Brittany Smith discuss the Apple Watch situation. Apple's rare acknowledgment sparks speculation on sales strategy and complicates those looking to purchase the device for the holidays. The panel also reviews the developments in the messaging encryption controversy, condemning misinformation from politicians and media. Doubting significant regulatory changes, the conversation highlights the importance of factual media coverage. This edition of MacVoices is supported by the MacVoices Holiday Gift Guides. Holiday conversations and great gear picks by our panelists. Check them out: http://MacVoices.com/HolidayGiftGuides Show Notes: Chapters: 0:00:35 MacVoices Live Holiday Party Begins 0:03:19 Holiday Decorations and Red Shirts 0:07:22 Speculation on Software Alterations and Apple Watch Sales 0:09:10 Implications of the Court Case on Apple Watch Sales Worldwide 0:09:52 Apple's Late Announcement and Implications of Biden Administration 0:13:05 Request for Recall and Hardware Changes for Apple Watches 0:13:20 The Apple Watch Debate: Can Apple Brick Purchased Watches? 0:15:57 Biden's Potential Veto and Massimo CEO's Power Struggle 0:16:16 Stalled Negotiations with Massimo 0:18:00 Apple's Unwillingness to Reach a Fair Deal 0:19:26 Apple Watch Controversy and Urgency to Purchase 0:21:47 Keeping an Eye on the Topic 0:22:01 Frustration with the Overplayed Beeper Topic 0:23:32 Mainstream Media's Lack of Knowledge and Nonsense Reporting 0:26:19 Potential Support for Enacting DMA-like Laws in the US 0:29:01 Concerns about Apple's Monopoly and Antitrust Subcommittee's involvement 0:30:58 Apple Haters and Publicity Stunts in Congress 0:33:17 The Mainstream Media's Role in Ignoring Facts and Glossing Over Details Links: Apple to halt Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 sales in the US this week https://9to5mac.com/2023/12/18/apple-halting-apple-watch-series-9-and-apple-watch-ultra-2-sales/ Apple could avoid US Apple Watch ban with software update https://appleinsider.com/articles/23/12/19/apple-could-avoid-us-apple-watch-ban-with-software-update Masimo CEO on Looming Apple Watch Ban: 'These Guys Have Been Caught With Their Hands in the Cookie Jar' https://www.macrumors.com/2023/12/19/masimo-ceo-on-apple-watch-ban/ The slow death of Beeper continues, and more senators want to get involved https://appleinsider.com/articles/23/12/18/the-slow-death-of-beeper-continues-and-more-senators-want-to-get-involved "Beeper Mini" app lets Android users send texts to iPhones with blue iMessage bubbles https://youtu.be/BeJs0XOvFrw?si=HwVFnPoA0TaIJ3Xh Guests: 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and Mastodon. Brittany Smith is a trained cognitive neuroscientist who provides ADD/ADHD, technology, and productivity coaching through her business, Devise and Conquer, along with companion video courses for folks with ADHD. She's also the cofounder of The ADHD Guild, a community for nerdy folks with ADHD. She, herself, is a self-designated "well-rounded geek". She can be found on Twitter as @addliberator, on Mastodon as @addliberator@pdx.social, and on YouTube with tech tips. 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 00:00:34 MacVoices Live Holiday Party Begins 00:03:18 Holiday Decorations and Red Shirts 00:07:22 Speculation on Software Alterations and Apple Watch Sales 00:09:10 Implications of the Court Case on Apple Watch Sales Worldwide 00:09:52 Apple's Late Announcement and Implications of Biden Administration 00:13:04 Request for Recall and Hardware Changes for Apple Watches 00:13:20 The Apple Watch Debate: Can Apple Brick Purchased Watches? 00:15:56 Biden's Potential Veto and Massimo CEO's Power Struggle 00:16:15 Stalled Negotiations with Massimo 00:17:59 Apple's Unwillingness to Reach a Fair Deal 00:19:25 Apple Watch Controversy and Urgency to Purchase 00:21:46 Keeping an Eye on the Topic 00:22:00 Frustration with the Overplayed Beeper Topic 00:23:32 Mainstream Media's Lack of Knowledge and Nonsense Reporting 00:26:19 Potential Support for Enacting DMA-like Laws in the US 00:29:00 Concerns about Apple's Monopoly and Antitrust Subcommittee's involvement 00:30:57 Apple Haters and Publicity Stunts in Congress 00:33:16 The Mainstream Media's Role in Ignoring Facts and Glossing Over Details

In the final Update for 2023, host Chuck Joiner offers his appreciation for everyone who participates in MacVoices from both sides of the camera and mic, talks about what was accomplished in 2023 and some of what is to come in 2024, reviews the Holiday Gift Guides, and finishes up with the Support Report. Show Notes: Links: MacVoices Holiday Gift Guides 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 00:00:00 December 2023 Mac Voices Update and Appreciation 00:01:09 Mac Voices Holiday Gift Guides and Dedicated Page 00:02:38 Plans for 2023 and Upcoming CES Coverage 00:03:37 Reflecting on a Productive Year and Resolutions for 2024 00:04:18 Special Attention to Patreon Subscribers 00:05:19 Support Report: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Subscribers 00:06:09 Thanking Subscribers and Wishing for a Happy New Year 00:07:19 Advertising and Bandwidth Partnerships

The MacVoices Live! panel of Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Ben Roethig, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, Mark Fuccio, and Guy Serle scrutinizes Tidal's surprising solid revenue and profi resilience despite a 10% staff layoff. The conversation then to Spotify's sustainability and Amex's perception of Apple Card's lacking premium appeal. 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: 0:03:08 Tidal's Revenue and Profit 0:05:22 Tidal's Decline and Staff Cuts 0:07:03 Exploring Tools to Transfer Title Playlists 0:08:40 Spotify's Profits and Potential for Future Success 0:11:49 Confusion between Spotify and Epic Games 0:13:19 Jury's Decision: Would They Side with Apple or Not? 0:14:39 Legal Arguments vs Lay Jury: A Judge's Perspective 0:15:45 Concerns about Goldman Sachs' lack of consumer credit experience 0:17:05 Speculation on the percentage of Apple customers with bad credit 0:17:41 Differentiating Apple customers and Apple Cardholders 0:19:42 The lack of data makes it difficult to determine creditworthiness 0:21:19 Speculating on potential rebound options for Apple Card Links: Tidal is laying off 10 percent of its staff https://www.engadget.com/tidal-is-laying-off-10-percent-of-its-staff-140112305.html Google Loses Antitrust Case Brought by Epic Games https://www.wsj.com/tech/google-loses-antitrust-case-brought-by-epic-games-651f5987 Apple Card might not be 'premium' enough for Amex, the card issuer's CEO hints https://www.imore.com/apple/apple-card-might-not-be-premium-enough-for-amex-the-card-issuers-ceo-hints Subscriber share held by smartphone operating systems in the United States from 2012 to 2023 https://www.statista.com/statistics/266572/market-share-held-by-smartphone-platforms-in-the-united-states/ 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, and on his blog, Trending At Work. 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and 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 00:03:08 Tidal's Revenue and Profit 00:05:22 Tidal's Decline and Staff Cuts 00:07:02 Exploring Tools to Transfer Title Playlists 00:08:39 Spotify's Profits and Potential for Future Success 00:11:49 Confusion between Spotify and Epic Games 00:13:18 Jury's Decision: Would They Side with Apple or Not? 00:14:38 Legal Arguments vs Lay Jury: A Judge's Perspective 00:15:45 Concerns about Goldman Sachs' lack of consumer credit experience 00:17:04 Speculation on the percentage of Apple customers with bad credit 00:17:40 Differentiating Apple customers and Apple Cardholders 00:19:41 The lack of data makes it difficult to determine creditworthiness 00:21:18 Speculating on potential rebound options for Apple Card

This MacVoices Live! discussion spotlights Apple's latest stolen device protection measures and why you should adopt them. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Ben Roethig, Jeff Gamet, Jim Rea, Mark Fuccio, and Guy Serle underscore the importance of smartphone security in public spaces and Face ID. The panel also touches on how FineWoven is holding up after a rough start, as well as 23andMe's controversial terms of service changes, and AI tools' potential to impersonate live personalities. 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! http://patreon.com/macvoices Show Notes: Chapters: 0:02:24 Positive reception to Apple's stolen device protection feature 0:02:55 Enhanced Phone Security with Biometric Scanning 0:07:04 iPhone as a Tracker: Enhanced Theft Deterrent 0:09:21 Fine Woven Bands vs Leather: User Satisfaction Debate 0:11:13 The Irony of Apple's Leather Band Decision 0:13:17 Quality issues with new Apple Watch bands 0:15:53 Pondering Magnetic Link Bands on Amazon 0:17:13 Magnetic Watch Bands and Knockoff Melanies 0:19:03 23andMe's Controversial Terms of Service Change 0:20:27 Curious Speculations and Password Changes 0:21:41 Celebrities Tricked into Recording Propaganda Videos 0:23:02 War situation and misuse of celebrity contracts 0:25:30 Technology's impact on video editing and celebrity earnings 0:28:24 Impersonating people with AI tools 0:30:11 The danger of fictional content being mistaken as real 0:32:01 Samuel L. Jackson as the Voice of Vader? Links: Apple Makes Security Changes to Protect Users From iPhone Thefts https://www.wsj.com/tech/personal-tech/apple-iphone-ios-update-stolen-device-protection-698d760e?st=vg2nkphglwtsx9w&reflink=article_copyURL_share Apple Makes Security Changes to Protect Users From iPhone Thefts https://appleinsider.com/articles/23/12/06/google-drive-offers-possible-fix-for-missing-files-but-isnt-guaranteedf Apple Makes Security Changes to Protect Users From iPhone Thefts https://www.mactrast.com/2023/12/apple-named-as-petas-2023-company-of-the-year/ Are FineWoven Apple Watch bands really better than leather ones? https://9to5mac.com/2023/12/07/finewoven-apple-watch-bands-leather/ OCTT Pacific Blue FineWoven Magnetic Link Band Compatible with Apple Watch Band 38mm 40mm 41mm, Woven Loop Strap https://amzn.to/41FClcs 23andMe frantically changed its terms of service to prevent hacked customers from suing https://www.engadget.com/23andme-frantically-changed-its-terms-of-service-to-prevent-hacked-customers-from-suing-152434306.html U.S. celebrities were tricked into recording videos later doctored into anti-Zelenskyy propaganda https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/misinformation/celebrities-tricked-cameo-videos-russia-ukraine-propoganda-elijah-wood-rcna128331 Jimmy Kimmel Says George Santos Is Demanding $20,000 for Showing Cameos on Late Night Show https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/jimmy-kimmel-george-santos-demanding-money-airing-cameos-1235746697/ Cameo https://www.cameo.com/ New bedtime story voiced by Jimmy Stewart just in time for Christmas, 26 years after his death https://www.mynbc5.com/article/bedtime-story-voiced-by-jimmy-stewart-christmas/46072345 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, and on his blog, Trending At Work. 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 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. Ben Roethig has been in the Apple Ecosystem since the System 7 Days. He is the a former Associate Editor with Geek Beat, Co-Founder of The Tech Hangout and Deconstruct and currently shares his thoughts on RoethigTech. Contact him on Twitter and 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 00:02:24 Positive reception to Apple's stolen device protection feature 00:02:54 Enhanced Phone Security with Biometric Scanning 00:07:04 iPhone as a Tracker: Enhanced Theft Deterrent 00:09:21 Fine Woven Bands vs Leather: User Satisfaction Debate 00:11:12 The Irony of Apple's Leather Band Decision 00:13:17 Quality issues with new Apple Watch bands 00:15:53 Pondering Magnetic Link Bands on Amazon 00:17:12 Magnetic Watch Bands and Knockoff Melanies 00:19:03 23andMe's Controversial Terms of Service Change 00:20:27 Curious Speculations and Password Changes 00:21:41 Celebrities Tricked into Recording Propaganda Videos 00:23:02 War situation and misuse of celebrity contracts 00:25:29 Technology's impact on video editing and celebrity earnings 00:28:24 Impersonating people with AI tools 00:30:11 The danger of fictional content being mistaken as real 00:32:01 Samuel L. Jackson as the Voice of Vader?