The Tech Night Owl LIVE — Tech Radio with a Twist!

View Details

All good things must come to an end. After 17 years as a pioneer in online radio and podcasting, this will be the final original episode of The Tech Night Owl LIVE. For this show, we've gathered some of our favorite guests to reminisce and talk about the present and the near-future of or favorite fruit company, Apple Inc. It all begins with the early days of the Internet, its complexities, and Apple's path from Macintosh to iPod, to its most lucrative product, the iPhone, followed by the iPad, Apple Watch and beyond. There will also be an extensive discussion about the prospects for the success of Apple's fledgling services, which include News+, a premium version of the app offering access to hundreds of magazines and newspapers, and Apple TV+, in which the company is spending billions of dollars to hire top-flight talent to create original TV shows. Where does Apple+ fit in market currently owned by Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu and other streaming services? Are there already too many for a newcomer to succeed?

Guests for this very special episode include tech commentator and publisher Adam Engst, Editor and Publisher of TidBITS, outspoken veteran tech commentator Peter Cohen, cutting-edge commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn.

View Details

This week we present a special encore episode featuring Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles. This week Gene and Josh talk about the recent surprising U.S. Supreme Court ruling, in which an antitrust trial against the App Store was allowed to proceed. How would an unfavorable verdict impact Apple and the way it manages its online stores? Will there be lower prices, perhaps support for third-party app repositories? Josh also talks about the nasty experiences he faced when he attempted to convert his Spotify account to a family plan. There is also talk about the problems Netflix may be facing after losing content from Disney and perhaps other services as they plan to introduce their own streaming networks.Wee also feature utspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen. In this segment, Peter has lots to say about what might happen as the result of the antitrust lawsuit against the App Store. There's also a lengthy discussion about what appears to be Intel's failure to update its CPUs in a timely fashion with reduced die sizes to allow for greater power efficiencies. Has the time arrived for Apple to finally ditch Intel and install its own A-series processors on Macs? Is there any possibility that the next Mac Pro, expected later this year, might be the very first model to go that route? Peter also discusses the recent Apple media event where Apple TV+, News+ and the Apple Arcade gaming service were introduced.

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode featuring outspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen. This week, Peter talks about a pet peeve of his, that, with so many models in each Apple product line, the differences may be blurred. This harkens back to the way it was in the 1990s, where there were many Mac models under the Performa moniker that were hardly different. Peter also talks about the alleged "Apple Tax," where the company supposedly charges higher prices for its products and services. There is also a discussion about reports that the next version of iOS will give the iPad mouse support, some speculation about the form of the next Mac Pro, due out this year, and whether there will someday be a switch from Intel to Apple's own ARM-based CPUs. And what about reports that Facebook may be hit with a multibillion dollar fine from the F.T.C. for various privacy lapses? Will it make a difference in how the world's largest social network operates, or just be a drop in the bucket in its impact on the company's finances?

You'll also hear from tech editor and commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan will also talk about what may come at Apple's media event, and the possible future of Apple TV. CorelDRAW's return is also discussed, as will the Spotify/Apple dispute. Bryan will also reveal his expectations of the forthcoming and long-delayed Mac Pro refresh, new versions of the iMac and iMac Pro, and repeat his qualms about the wisdom of buying gear with aging technology that Apple hasn't updated. Indeed, will such gear feature Apple's ARM-based processors instead of CPUs from Intel? There will also be talk about Facebook's plans to encrypt more of is services. And what about a new project involving an open source voting system from DARPA, the research agency that developed the world-wide web and other notable projects. Is this software platform something that the makers of voting machines may adopt, and will it mean greater security and more accurate election results?

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode featuring commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles. During this episode, Josh focuses on such topics as attempts by law enforcement to unlock a suspect's iPhone. While iCloud data is readily obtained, the iPhone is encrypted and Apple has refused to create a back door for security reasons. Josh also talks about the departure of Apple's retail chief Angela Ahrendts, and whether Tim Cook lacks something in hiring new executives. You'll also hear speculation about Apple's forthcoming lineup of TV content, and how it might be presented in comparison to such streaming services as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix. And what about the rumored AppleCar?You'll also hear from tech industry expert Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. Stephen will discuss the fast-growing smartwatch market, where Apple leads by a huge margin. What did the industry do to gain traction? You'll also about Apple's plans to expand its market beyond Apple TV by licensing AirPlay 2 and an iTunes app to major TV makers, such as Samsung. There will also be discussions about flattening smartphone sales and declining PC sales, where Apple has boosted prices on its gear to increase revenue. Stephen will also talk about the success of 4K TV, and whether those super expensive 8K sets, coming to market at very high prices, will some day become popular. And what about the smart speaker market?

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode featuring tech writer Andrew Orr from the The Mac Observer, Andrew covers a variety of topics from some of his recent articles, including more information about the Facebook follies, and the alleged abuses by the world’s largest social network. What about the paucity of apps that support Apple’s controversial touch bar, which is found on some models of the MacBook Pro? The discussion also covers the iPad, and whether it can be used as a primary personal computer with the right keyboard. What about Apple’s upcoming TV programming? Andrew has kept tabs on announcements and rumors of new shows. You’ll also hear about the latest Netflix price increase and the possibility of Apple switching from Intel to its own ARM-based processors on Macs in the near future.We also present the fascinating life story of a former “most wanted” cybercriminal. Brett Johnson discusses his long and varied history as a career criminal, which took him from petty crime to online scams that included identity theft, tax fraud, social engineering attacks, hacking and more. He built and was leader of ShadowCrew, the precursor to today’s darknet markets. As a reformed criminal, Brett consults with large corporations and helps them harden their systems to prevent intrusions from cybercriminals. A nationally-known lecturer and podcaster, he’ll also deliver common sense advice on how you can protect yourself from the dangers of the online world where privacy is usually just a talking point and not much else.

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode featuring tech journalist Sean Aune, Editor-in-Chief of technobuffalo.com. During this segment, Sean will discuss the ongoing debate about privacy, focusing on recent issues involving Facebook. Do these incidents mean that Facebook is destined to lose its status as the world's largest social network? Will it become the next MySpace? Gene and Sean also discuss Apple and whether its new product intros have become a little too much same old same old. Moving to pop culture, they talk about the problems with DC Comics having one set of actors playing a character in a movie, and another on a TV show. Thus we get two versions of Superman, and the Flash, and so on.

You’ll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, the former Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, Gene and Jeff catch up briefly on pop culture lore, focusing on super heroes. Did the less-than-successful “Justice League,” signal the beginning of the end for the efforts of DC Comics to match Marvel in producing blockbuster films? What about the apparent cutback in schedules of some of their titles, and will DC Comics expand its focus on super hero TV shows on The CW network? In talking about the Apple media event, Jeff suggests that only the iPad will be introduced, and that any new Macs to be launched this fall will be heralded by nothing more than a press release. What about new reports that Apple plans to ditch Intel processors in 2020 and 2021 and install its own A-series processors on new Macs? What will the possible impact be?

View Details

This week, we present a very special encore episode in which we feature outspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen. This week, Peter talks about a pet peeve of his, that, with so many models in each Apple product line, the differences may be blurred. This harkens back to the way it was in the 1990s, where there were many Mac models under the Performa moniker that were hardly different. Peter also talks about the alleged "Apple Tax," where the company supposedly charges higher prices for its products and services. There is also a discussion about reports that the next version of iOS will give the iPad mouse support, some speculation about the form of the next Mac Pro, due out this year, and whether there will someday be a switch from Intel to Apple's own ARM-based CPUs. And what about reports that Facebook may be hit with a multibillion dollar fine from the F.T.C. for various privacy lapses? Will it make a difference in how the world's largest social network operates, or just be a drop in the bucket in its impact on the company's finances?

View Details

This week we feature commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles. This week Gene and Josh talk about the recent surprising U.S. Supreme Court ruling, in which an antitrust trial against the App Store was allowed to proceed. How would an unfavorable verdict impact Apple and the way it manages its online stores? Will there be lower prices, perhaps support for third-party app repositories? Josh also talks about the nasty experiences he faced when he attempted to convert his Spotify account to a family plan. There is also talk about the problems Netflix may be facing after losing content from Disney and perhaps other services as they plan to introduce their own streaming networks.Wee also feature utspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen. In this segment, Peter has lots to say about what might happen as the result of the antitrust lawsuit against the App Store. There's also a lengthy discussion about what appears to be Intel's failure to update its CPUs in a timely fashion with reduced die sizes to allow for greater power efficiencies. Has the time arrived for Apple to finally ditch Intel and install its own A-series processors on Macs? Is there any possibility that the next Mac Pro, expected later this year, might be the very first model to go that route? Peter also discusses the recent Apple media event where Apple TV+, News+ and the Apple Arcade gaming service were introduced.

View Details

This week, we present a very special encore episode featuring outspoken columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare this week includes Apple's March media event and its implications going forward. Were there really two few details. John also explains why suggestions that Apple buy Netflix are not viable, why things aren't what they appear to be with Apple, Apple's privacy ad and how it showcases the company's philosophy compared to the likes of Facebook and Google, and whether the monolithic iTunes app for Macs and PCs may soon be broken up into more digestible and easier-to-use single-purpose apps. Some people can hardly wait.In a very special encore segment, we cover Apple's "Show Time" media event that was held on March 25, 2019, where the wraps were taken off plans for Apple TV+, yet another video streaming service that will offer a collection of original TV shows and movies premiering in the fall. Such notables as J.J. Abrams, Steven Spielberg and even Oprah Winfrey are involved in the production of this content, but details beyond the basic "up-front" presentation and previews have yet to be announced. Apple also announced Apple News+, a subscription service featuring material culled from both magazines and newspapers, a major enhancement to the free app. In addition, Apple Arcade will offer original games, also by subscription. Here to talk about the goings on is outspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen.

View Details

This week we we feature a very special encore segment with commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles. Gene and Josh talk about Apple’s foray into TV streaming, and its “up-front” presentation of shows and stars during a March 25, 2019 media event. With few details to go by, just how will Apple’s streaming service fare against the likes of Amazon Prime and Netflix, not to mention CBS All Access and the forthcoming service from Disney? Have we reached the point of streaming overload yet? There will also be discussions about Apple’s recent product intros that included new iPads, an iMac refresh, and the second-generation AirPods. Josh will also discuss Verizon’s plan to offer free call filtering to block telemarketing calls. This is similar to a service already provided by AT&T and T-Mobile.

You’ll also hear the very latest interview with tech reporter Andrew Orr from the The Mac Observer. On this episode, Andrew will talk with Gene about Apple’s recent financials which, despite lower revenue than last year, came in at the high end of the company’s guidance. And what about contrary claims about actual iPhone unit sales, since Apple no longer provides such information? You’ll also hear about the possibilities for an Apple Glasses product, where, if it is produced, might deliver a simple way to check for glaucoma and other eye ailments. There will also be discussions about a curious story reporting that an AirPod that still worked after being swallowed by a user, the launch of a Beats alternative to AirPods, the PowerBeats Pro, and other topics related to our favorite “fruit company.”

View Details

This week, we feature outspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen. This week, Peter talks about a pet peeve of his, that, with so many models in each Apple product line, the differences may be blurred. This harkens back to the way it was in the 1990s, where there were many Mac models under the Performa moniker that were hardly different. Peter also talks about the alleged "Apple Tax," where the company supposedly charges higher prices for its products and services. There is also a discussion about reports that the next version of iOS will give the iPad mouse support, some speculation about the form of the next Mac Pro, due out this year, and whether there will someday be a switch from Intel to Apple's own ARM-based CPUs. And what about reports that Facebook may be hit with a multibillion dollar fine from the F.T.C. for various privacy lapses? Will it make a difference in how the world's largest social network operates, or just be a drop in the bucket in its impact on the company's finances?You'll also hear from tech editor and commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan will also talk about what may come at Apple's media event, and the possible future of Apple TV. CorelDRAW's return is also discussed, as will the Spotify/Apple dispute. Bryan will also reveal his expectations of the forthcoming and long-delayed Mac Pro refresh, new versions of the iMac and iMac Pro, and repeat his qualms about the wisdom of buying gear with aging technology that Apple hasn't updated. Indeed, will such gear feature Apple's ARM-based processors instead of CPUs from Intel? There will also be talk about Facebook's plans to encrypt more of is services. And what about a new project involving an open source voting system from DARPA, the research agency that developed the world-wide web and other notable projects. Is this software platform something that the makers of voting machines may adopt, and will it mean greater security and more accurate election results?

View Details

This week, we feature tech editor and commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan, you see, is hopping mad at Apple for not paying enough attention to the Mac in recent years. He feels that product upgrades come too slowly, meaning you pay current prices for models that can be two or more years old. Bryan also speculates about the next Mac Pro workstation, which is expected later this year, perhaps at Apple's WWDC event in June. He also focuses on the latest Facebook security follies and Apple's March 25th media event, where the wraps were taken off Apple TV+ and a lineup of brand new shows. Was this an upfront presentation of new content, echoing the approach of other TV and streaming networks, or an attempt to demonstrate to the bigwigs in Hollywood that Apple is open for business?In a very special encore segment, the focus is on online security, as we present Cat Murdock, a hacker who hunts child predators for the Innocent Lives Foundation. This interview comes in the wake of recent stories about the discover of alleged pedophilia rings on YouTube. Cat will expand on the nature of the problem, and the things parents should look out for in protecting their children. The Innocent Lives Foundation is a nonprofit founded by Chris Hadnagy that recruits hackers and IT experts to use their skills for good by hunting down online predators. The organization's board includes A.J. Cook, a member of the ensemble cast of CBS's "Criminal Minds," and the former head of the FBI's Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program.

View Details

This week, we feature outspoken columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare this week includes Apple's March media event and its implications going forward. Were there really two few details. John also explains why suggestions that Apple buy Netflix are not viable, why things aren't what they appear to be with Apple, Apple's privacy ad and how it showcases the company's philosophy compared to the likes of Facebook and Google, and whether the monolithic iTunes app for Macs and PCs may soon be broken up into more digestible and easier-to-use single-purpose apps. Some people can hardly wait.In a very special encore segment, we cover Apple's "Show Time" media event that was held on March 25, 2019, where the wraps were taken off plans for Apple TV+, yet another video streaming service that will offer a collection of original TV shows and movies premiering in the fall. Such notables as J.J. Abrams, Steven Spielberg and even Oprah Winfrey are involved in the production of this content, but details beyond the basic "up-front" presentation and previews have yet to be announced. Apple also announced Apple News+, a subscription service featuring material culled from both magazines and newspapers, a major enhancement to the free app. In addition, Apple Arcade will offer original games, also by subscription. Here to talk about the goings on is outspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen.

View Details

This week we we feature commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles. Gene and Josh talk about Apple’s foray into TV streaming, and its “up-front” presentation of shows and stars during a March 25, 2019 media event. With few details to go by, just how will Apple’s streaming service fare against the likes of Amazon Prime and Netflix, not to mention CBS All Access and the forthcoming service from Disney? Have we reached the point of streaming overload yet? There will also be discussions about Apple’s recent product intros that included new iPads, an iMac refresh, and the second-generation AirPods. Josh will also discuss Verizon’s plan to offer free call filtering to block telemarketing calls. This is similar to a service already provided by AT&T and T-Mobile.

In a very special encore segment, you’ll also hear from tech editor and commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan will also talk about what may come at Apple’s media event, and the possible future of Apple TV. CorelDRAW’s return is also discussed, as will the Spotify/Apple dispute. Bryan will also reveal his expectations of the forthcoming and long-delayed Mac Pro refresh, new versions of the iMac and iMac Pro, and repeat his qualms about the wisdom of buying gear with aging technology that Apple hasn’t updated. Indeed, will such gear feature Apple’s ARM-based processors instead of CPUs from Intel? There will also be talk about Facebook’s plans to encrypt more of is services. And what about a new project involving an open source voting system from DARPA, the research agency that developed the world-wide web and other notable projects. Is this software platform something that the makers of voting machines may adopt, and will it mean greater security and more accurate election results?

View Details

This week we offer special coverage of Apple's "Show Time" media event that was held on March 25, 2019, where the wraps were taken off plans for Apple TV+, yet another video streaming service that will offer a collection of original TV shows and movies premiering in the fall. Such notables as J.J. Abrams, Steven Spielberg and even Oprah Winfrey are involved in the production of this content, but details beyond the basic "up-front" presentation and previews have yet to be announced. Apple also announced Apple News+, a subscription service featuring material culled from both magazines and newspapers, a major enhancement to the free app. In addition, Apple Arcade will offer original games, also by subscription. In low-key announcements the previous week, Apple refreshed the iMac with more powerful hardware, and upgraded the iPad mini and iPad Air. The AirPods wireless earphones were also updated.Joining us to discuss the possibilities of all the new products and services are cutting-edge commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn. You'll also hear from outspoken tech commentator Peter Cohen. Both pundits will also be asked about Apple's plans for the next Mac Pro, which is promised for later this year. Why has it taken so long to refresh Apple's professional desktop computer?

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode featuring tech reporter Andrew Orr from the The Mac Observer. During this segment, Andrew talks about a recent report, from Axios, that quotes unnamed people from Intel who claim that Apple is prepared to switch to its own A-series CPUs in Macs come 2020. Gene mentions recent predictions from Mac Observer Editor-in-Chief Bryan Chaffin that the next Mac Pro, expected this year, will actually be the first Mac to include one of those chips. You'll also hear talk about Facebook security, Apple's possible plans for introducing TV shows, and a certain outrageous claim about the forthcoming 6G, when 5G is just in the early stages of being rolled out.We also focus on online security, as we present Cat Murdock, a hacker who hunts child predators for the Innocent Lives Foundation. This interview comes in the wake of recent stories about the discover of alleged pedophilia rings on YouTube. Cat will expand on the nature of the problem, and the things parents should look out for in protecting their children. The Innocent Lives Foundation is a nonprofit founded by Chris Hadnagy that recruits hackers and IT experts to use their skills for good by hunting down online predators. The organization's board includes A.J. Cook, a member of the ensemble cast of CBS's "Criminal Minds," and the former head of the FBI's Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program.

View Details

This week we present tech commentator and publisher Adam Engst, Editor and Publisher of TidBITS, During this presentation, he will offer his speculation about what Apple may introduce at its March 25, 2019 media event. Will it just include news about a streaming service featuring original TV programming, a possible news and magazine subscription offering, or something unexpected? Adam also talks about the return of CorelDRAW to the macOS platform after a number of years. And what about the dustup between Spotify and Apple over claims that the latter’s “walled garden” is making it difficult for competitors to succeed on its platform.

You’ll also hear from tech editor and commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan will also talk about what may come at Apple’s media event, and the possible future of Apple TV. CorelDRAW’s return is also discussed, as will the Spotify/Apple dispute. Bryan will also reveal his expectations of the forthcoming and long-delayed Mac Pro refresh, new versions of the iMac and iMac Pro, and repeat his qualms about the wisdom of buying gear with aging technology that Apple hasn’t updated. Indeed, will such gear feature Apple’s ARM-based processors instead of CPUs from Intel? There will also be talk about Facebook’s plans to encrypt more of is services. And what about a new project involving an open source voting system from DARPA, the research agency that developed the world-wide web and other notable projects. Is this software platform something that the makers of voting machines may adopt, and will it mean greater security and more accurate election results?

View Details

This week we present tech reporter Andrew Orr from the The Mac Observer. During this segment, Andrew talks about a recent report, from Axios, that quotes unnamed people from Intel who claim that Apple is prepared to switch to its own A-series CPUs in Macs come 2020. Gene mentions recent predictions from Mac Observer Editor-in-Chief Bryan Chaffin that the next Mac Pro, expected this year, will actually be the first Mac to include one of those chips. You'll also hear talk about Facebook security, Apple's possible plans for introducing TV shows, and a certain outrageous claim about the forthcoming 6G, when 5G is just in the early stages of being rolled out.In a very special segment, we focus on online security, as we present Cat Murdock, a hacker who hunts child predators for the Innocent Lives Foundation. This interview comes in the wake of recent stories about the discover of alleged pedophilia rings on YouTube. Cat will expand on the nature of the problem, and the things parents should look out for in protecting their children. The Innocent Lives Foundation is a nonprofit founded by Chris Hadnagy that recruits hackers and IT experts to use their skills for good by hunting down online predators. The organization's board includes A.J. Cook, a member of the ensemble cast of CBS's "Criminal Minds," and the former head of the FBI's Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program.

View Details

This week we present ommentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles. During this episode, Josh focuses on such topics as attempts by law enforcement to unlock a suspect's iPhone. While iCloud data is readily obtained, the iPhone is encrypted and Apple has refused to create a back door for security reasons. Josh also talks about the departure of Apple's retail chief Angela Ahrendts, and whether Tim Cook lacks something in hiring new executives. You'll also hear speculation about Apple's forthcoming lineup of TV content, and how it might be presented in comparison to such streaming services as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix. And what about the rumored AppleCar?

You'll also hear from tech industry expert Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. Stephen will discuss the fast-growing smartwatch market, where Apple leads by a huge margin. What did the industry do to gain traction? You'll also about Apple's plans to expand its market beyond Apple TV by licensing AirPlay 2 and an iTunes app to major TV makers, such as Samsung. There will also be discussions about flattening smartphone sales and declining PC sales, where Apple has boosted prices on its gear to increase revenue. Stephen will also talk about the success of 4K TV, and whether those super expensive 8K sets, coming to market at very high prices, will some day become popular. And what about the smart speaker market?

View Details

This week we present tech writer/editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Recent Apple news is front and center, as Gene and Bryan talk about the insidious bug in Group FaceTime, since fixed, which allowed you to listen to someone at the other end of the connection before the call was made. You’ll also hear about Apple’s revenue shortfall, and whether high prices might have, in part, caused the sales shortfall. There’s also a discussion about Apple’s decision to license AirPlay 2 to major TV makers, such as LG, Sony and VIZIO. Will this be the savior for Apple TV technology? Bryan also offers an update on his theory about the forthcoming Mac Pro, which Apple has promised for this year. Will it result in a key change that is comparable in its impact to the one Apple announced in 2005?

In a very special encore segment, we also present the fascinating life story of a former “most wanted” cybercriminal. Brett Johnson discusses his long and varied history as a career criminal, which took him from petty crime to online scams that included identity theft, tax fraud, social engineering attacks, hacking and more. He built and was leader of ShadowCrew, the precursor to today’s darknet markets. As a reformed criminal, Brett consults with large corporations and helps them harden their systems to prevent intrusions from cybercriminals. A nationally-known lecturer and podcaster, he’ll also deliver common sense advice on how you can product yourself from the dangers of the online world where privacy is usually just a talking point and not much else.

View Details

In a very special encore episode, this week we present commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. During this episode, Josh talks about a possible new Apple "Bendgate" scandal, involving a bent chassis issue with the 2018 iPad Pro. Although Apple claims the affected units are within spec, is this something Apple will have to fix? What about past problems with possibly defective Apple gear? Josh also talks about the latest concerns over Facebook privacy and how it handles customer data. The discussion also covers his newest book, "Take Control of Notes," and Apple's upcoming slate of original TV programs. Can Apple deliver compelling entertainment that will quickly grab an audience?

You'll also hear from tech editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. During this segment, Bryan will also cover Apple's move to remove unit sales from its quarterly financials and the possible impact, and Apple Music on Alexa. There will also be a discussion on the lack of 5K displays, other than Apple's iMac and iMac Pro, and an LG display. What about reports of online blackmail, where someone claims to have discovered your password, and threatens to out you as visiting unsavory sites unless you pay the ransom, by Bitcoin. Gene and Bryan will also talk about Apple's higher prices on its latest gear, and what about the promised Mac Pro, due out in 2019? Bryan reveals his theory about why Apple is taking so long to produce the successor to the failed "trashcan" model introduced in 2013 and never updated. Will the next Mac Pro herald a major change in the Mac platform?

View Details

This week we feature outspoken commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, In this segment, Kirk starts the discussion by talking about his use of 8TB drives for backup, as Gene examines the lower prices for SSD, which cost several times that of traditional hard drives. Both are concerned that Apple still charges $1,400 for a 2TB SSD upgrade for the Mad mini. With the recent announcement from Apple CEO Tim Cook that the company would miss its earnings guidance, the possible reasons are discussed. In addition to the sales falloff in China, and the fact that people hang onto their devices longer, should Apple consider offering lower priced models to compete better? What about the iPhone SE, which met the needs of people who want small handsets at a relatively affordable price. Apple has run closeout sales on the SE, but only briefly.

You'll also hear an encore presentation of a segment with commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who covers Apple's expected TV programming, and how it might be presented. What about the new rumors of an updated TV app that will showcase the programs free and present other streaming services for in-app purchases? Does the world need yet another streaming service? What about Google's decision to cancel Plus next year, which is yet another service the search giant has canceled over the years. Did it ever stand a chance against Facebook? What about Facebook's own security problems, and will that ultimately lead to another social network eventually catching fire and taking over the market? Consider that young people these days are mainly focusing on YouTube, which is owned by Google.

View Details

This week we present tech writer Andrew Orr from the The Mac Observer, Andrew covers a variety of topics from some of his recent articles, including more information about the Facebook follies, and the alleged abuses by the world's largest social network. What about the paucity of apps that support Apple's controversial touch bar, which is found on some models of the MacBook Pro? The discussion also covers the iPad, and whether it can be used as a primary personal computer with the right keyboard. What about Apple's upcoming TV programming? Andrew has kept tabs on announcements and rumors of new shows. You'll also hear about the latest Netflix price increase and the possibility of Apple switching from Intel to its own ARM-based processors on Macs in the near future.

We also present the fascinating life story of a former "most wanted" cybercriminal. Brett Johnson discusses his long and varied history as a career criminal, which took him from petty crime to online scams that included identity theft, tax fraud, social engineering attacks, hacking and more. He built and was leader of ShadowCrew, the precursor to today’s darknet markets. As a reformed criminal, Brett consults with large corporations and helps them harden their systems to prevent intrusions from cybercriminals. A nationally-known lecturer and podcaster, he'll also deliver common sense advice on how you can product yourself from the dangers of the online world where privacy is usually just a talking point and not much else.

View Details

This week we present the one and only Adam Engst, Editor and Publisher of TidBITS, During this episode, Gene brings up yet another highly irritating experience with AT&T support and how they mishandled his account. But the main topic is Apple's current predicament, in which revenue for the December quarter (Apple's 1st fiscal quarter) will fall about $5 billion below the original guidance. According to CEO Tim Cook, this is due to slumping sales in China, and the fact that iPhone owners are keeping their equipment longer before upgrading. You'll also hear a discussion that presages the segment below, a theory of a possible significant development that might be part of the "modular" Mac Pro that Apple promises to introduce this year.

In a special encore segment, you'll also hear from tech editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. During this segment, Bryan will also cover Apple's move to remove unit sales from its quarterly financials and the possible impact, and Apple Music on Alexa. There will also be a discussion on the lack of 5K displays, other than Apple's iMac and iMac Pro, and an LG display. What about reports of online blackmail, where someone claims to have discovered your password, and threatens to out you as visiting unsavory sites unless you pay the ransom, by Bitcoin. Gene and Bryan will also talk about Apple's higher prices on its latest gear, and what about the promised Mac Pro, due out in 2019? Bryan reveals his theory about why Apple is taking so long to produce the successor to the failed "trashcan" model introduced in 2013 and never updated. Will the next Mac Pro herald a major change in the Mac platform?

View Details

This week we present outspoken tech editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. During this episode, Bryan discusses the silly lawsuit by the voice actor for the Hebrew version of Siri. What about a tiny bent area on the new iPad Pro that Apple regards as within spec? Should Apple replace these potentially "defective" products? Bryan dischttps://www.macradio.net/usses the history of supposedly flawed Apple gear, including the Antennagate controversy that impacted the iPhone 4. Other topics on the menu include Facebook's ongoing problems, and the negative impact to Apple's stock price after the company announced that it would no longer report unit sales of individual products in its quarterly financials. And what about the promised 2019 Mac Pro? Bryan repeats his theory that it will be the first Mac to be powered by one of Apple's custom-designed ARM processors instead of an Intel CPU.

In a special encore segment, you'll also hear from commentator/podcaster Peter Cohen, who also focuses on "Right to Repair" and the upsides and downsides. Peter offers his personal experiences as the employee of an authorized Apple dealer some years ago and how it influenced his opinion about whether Apple and other companies need to allow more repair freedom. There's also a brief discussion about the concept of states' rights and how it affects customers where such laws vary from state to state. The discussion also focuses on the HomePod and its possible value as a smart speaker. Both Gene and Peter explain, at length, why a HomePod is not on their shopping lists right now, and whether Apple could sell more copies if it loosened its dependence on Apple's ecosystem when it comes to being able to listen to your stuff.

View Details

This week we present commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. During this episode, Josh talks about a possible new Apple "Bendgate" scandal, involving a bent chassis issue with the 2018 iPad Pro. Although Apple claims the affected units are within spec, is this something Apple will have to fix? What about past problems with possibly defective Apple gear? Josh also talks about the latest concerns over Facebook privacy and how it handles customer data. The discussion also covers his newest book, "Take Control of Notes," and Apple's upcoming slate of original TV programs. Can Apple deliver compelling entertainment that will quickly grab an audience?

In a very special encore segment, you'll also hear from tech editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. During this segment, Bryan will also cover Apple's move to remove unit sales from its quarterly financials and the possible impact, and Apple Music on Alexa. There will also be a discussion on the lack of 5K displays, other than Apple's iMac and iMac Pro, and an LG display. What about reports of online blackmail, where someone claims to have discovered your password, and threatens to out you as visiting unsavory sites unless you pay the ransom, by Bitcoin. Gene and Bryan will also talk about Apple's higher prices on its latest gear, and what about the promised Mac Pro, due out in 2019? Bryan reveals his theory about why Apple is taking so long to produce the successor to the failed "trashcan" model introduced in 2013 and never updated. Will the next Mac Pro herald a major change in the Mac platform?

View Details

This week we feature outspoken commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, In a recent column, Kirk explained why he cannot use Apple Maps during his travels around the UK, explaining that the directions are seriously flawed. Kirk says he wants to give up Google Maps, but he cannot do so yet. The discussion also moves to Apple's recent decision to stop reporting unit sales for iPhones, iPads and Macs in its quarterly financial reports. This has started a groundswell of complaints that, along with unconfirmed rumors of poor sales of the new iPhones, has caused Apple's stock price to drop, thus losing its status as the number one company on Earth by market cap.

In a very special encore segment, you’ll also hear from commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles, who covers Apple’s expected TV programming, and how it might be presented. What about the new rumors of an updated TV app that will showcase the programs free and present other streaming services for in-app purchases? Does the world need yet another streaming service? What about Google’s decision to cancel Plus next year, which is yet another service the search giant has canceled over the years. Did it ever stand a chance against Facebook? What about Facebook’s own security problems, and will that ultimately lead to another social network eventually catching fire and taking over the market? Consider that young people these days are mainly focusing on YouTube, which is owned by Google.

View Details

In a very special encore episode, we present ethical hacker Jason Lang of TrustedSec, who reports on the goings at a major hacking conference known as Black Hat. It's one of the top cybersecurity events where a ton of new vulnerabilities and hacker tricks are revealed. This year, as usual, they are revealing new attacks on smartphones, wearables, computers and other personal gadgets, along with IoT, cars and more. Also to be presented is new research on criminal trends in the Dark Web. Jason provides common sense details about the various tricks of the hacker trade, and how you can protect yourself from intrusions. Gene also recounts a recent attempt by a hacker to exact ransom from him for something he didn't even do. Desperation?

You'll also hear from industry expert Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. Stephen will discuss Apple sales, particularly the saturation of the smartphone market. What about those outrageous claims that the iPhone X was a miserable failure, and that suppliers had received reduced orders from Apple even though sales hit record levels? Stephen will also talk about the state of the PC market, including the recent drop in Mac sales. Gene and Stephen discuss the prospects for the HomePod, which hasn't been a big seller, and set-top streamers from Apple, Amazon and Roku. Is it true that Apple TV sales are much lower than the others? What about the efforts to move more product by offering an Apple TV with special sign-up offers from AT&T's DirecTV Now, and reports that Charter, one of the larger cable companies in the U.S., will be offering Apple TV. Gene wonders if we even need one of these devices with more and more TVs offering a decent collection of "smart" features.

View Details

This week we present commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. During this week's session, we focus heavily on the ramifications of Apple's decision to stop reporting unit sales as part of its quarterly financials. Since then, amid rumors, not confirmed, of serious cutbacks in iPhone production, Apple's stock has dropped to the point where it was no longer the largest company on the planet by market cap. Gene and Josh will also cover Apple's deal with Amazon to make Apple Music available on Alexa. What about the higher prices of the latest Apple gear?

View Details

This week we present tech journalist Sean Aune, Editor-in-Chief of technobuffalo.com. During this segment, Sean will discuss the ongoing debate about privacy, focusing on recent issues involving Facebook. Do these incidents mean that Facebook is destined to lose its status as the world's largest social network? Will it become the next MySpace? Gene and Sean also discuss Apple and whether its new product intros have become a little too much same old same old. Moving to pop culture, they talk about the problems with DC Comics having one set of actors playing a character in a movie, and another on a TV show. Thus we get two versions of Superman, and the Flash, and so on.

In a very special encore segment, you’ll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, the former Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, Gene and Jeff catch up briefly on pop culture lore, focusing on super heroes. Did the less-than-successful “Justice League,” signal the beginning of the end for the efforts of DC Comics to match Marvel in producing blockbuster films? What about the apparent cutback in schedules of some of their titles, and will DC Comics expand its focus on super hero TV shows on The CW network? In talking about the Apple media event, Jeff suggests that only the iPad will be introduced, and that any new Macs to be launched this fall will be heralded by nothing more than a press release. What about new reports that Apple plans to ditch Intel processors in 2020 and 2021 and install its own A-series processors on new Macs? What will the possible impact be?

View Details

Coming November 17 on The Tech Night Owl LIVE (www.macradio.net/): This week we present a special holiday season segment, featuring security guru Scott Nusbaum, senior incident response at TrustedSec (a white hat hacking firm). A main focus is a frightening new risk to online shoppers called “formgrabbing.” Nusbaum will focus on what this means when you place an order, and how online criminals can gather your personal information, such as your address and credit card numbers and use them to steal your money. Are there ways to protect yourself from this threat? Nusbaum covers the whole gamut of online shopping dangers and how to navigate through the troubled waters.

In a special encore segment, you’ll also hear from commentator/podcaster Peter Cohen, who also focuses on “Right to Repair” and the upsides and downsides. Peter offers his personal experiences as the employee of an authorized Apple dealer some years ago and how it influenced his opinion about whether Apple and other companies need to allow more repair freedom. There’s also a brief discussion about the concept of states’ rights and how it affects customers where such laws vary from state to state. The discussion also focuses on the HomePod and its possible value as a smart speaker. Both Gene and Peter explain, at length, why a HomePod is not on their shopping lists right now, and whether Apple could sell more copies if it loosened its dependence on Apple’s ecosystem when it comes to being able to listen to your stuff.

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode in which we are joined by Daniel Rubino, executive editor of Windows Central,who covers a few key stories from the tech world, starting with an historical view of Skype, after Gene complains yet again about the glitches in the latest Mac version. The discussion moves to Microsoft's decision to withdraw a faulty Windows 10 upgrade for October, 2018, due to critical problems, such as user files being erased. And what about the decision by Google to discontinue its Plus social network after a serious security flaw, hidden by Google, was revealed? Daniel will also discuss Microsoft Surface lineup, and how it serves to influence the rest of the PC industry.

You'll also hear from commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who covers Apple's expected TV programming, and how it might be presented. What about the new rumors of an updated TV app that will showcase the programs free and present other streaming services for in-app purchases? Does the world need yet another streaming service? What about Google's decision to cancel Plus next year, which is yet another service the search giant has canceled over the years. Did it ever stand a chance against Facebook? What about Facebook's own security problems, and will that ultimately lead to another social network eventually catching fire and taking over the market? Consider that young people these days are mainly focusing on YouTube, which is owned by Google.

View Details

This week, we are joined by independent tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Wirecutter and other publications. The discussion begins with Apple's recent penchant for raising prices in light of flat sales for its key products, such as the iPhone, iPad and Mac. With the new models introduced in September and October of this year, there have been healthy increases, so we now have a 12.9-inch iPad selling for as much as $1,899 in U.S. dollars, and an iMac reaching $4,199 U.S. when it's all decked out. The iMac it replaced, which was introduced in 2014, started at just $499 U.S. The discussion also covered Apple's September quarterly financials, election security issues and other topics.

In a very special encore segment, you'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who also focuses on the so-called Siri follies. Gene repeats his suggestion about setting up an error-correcting feature to improve its accuracy. Jeff mentions the recent auction of a job application from Steve Jobs, as Gene wonders why anyone would actually care about such a thing, while Jeff reminds us of Jobs' influence on society. There's also a pop culture discussion that includes well-known character actors and how they enhance the value of a film or TV show. Focusing on 4K TV, Gene and Jeff discuss the confusion and incompatibilities of HDR. Even if a TV or set-top box supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision, not all sets will be able to present content in both formats. To make matters all the more confusing, not all sets support HDR from all HDMI ports, even the ones that are supposed to support these formats.

View Details

This week, we feature outspoken columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. After the usual complaints about Skype 8 for the Mac, John talks about the things he loves — and hates — about his Apple Watch Series 4, as Gene sits back and checks the time on his $12.88 Walmart calendar watch. There will also be discussions about 4K TV coming of age, and about Apple's possible plans for its forthcoming lineup of TV shows. And just what is Apple planning for its October 30, 2018 media event in Gene's hometown, Brooklyn, NY? Will it include, as expected, refreshes to the iPad Pro lineup? What about new Macs, and will there be a brand new Mac mini, after Apple's cheapest personal computer has languished for four years? Will the new model be oriented more towards pro users?

In a very special encore segment, you’ll also hear from about election hacking risks and the uproar over the Helsinki summit. Featured on this segment is Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba Security. Last fall, Casaba and his company explored possible voting system vulnerabilities for a couple of national groups, and the potential problems exhibited by different machines. What about the electronic voting units that do not offer paper backup? What about the chances of hacking returns and altering the results? Gene and Jason engage in a lengthy discussion about the flaws, particularly involving older equipment with obsolete embedded operating systems that can no longer be patched to fix security flaws.

View Details

This week, we feature outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, Gene and Kirk began by repeating their usual complaints about Skype glitches before exploring such topics as Kirk's problems with the Apple Stores in the UK, which aren't rated terribly high for customer service. Kirk also reveals what iPhone he might end up purchasing from the new lineup introduced in September. With an Apple media event set for October 30, 2018, in Brooklyn, NY, Gene and Kirk wonder whether the conventional wisdom that new iPads and Macs will be introduced is correct. Is it even possible that Apple might provide a brief preview of the new Mac Pro that has been promised for 2019?

You'll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, Gene and Jeff catch up briefly on pop culture lore, focusing on super heroes. Did the less-than-successful "Justice League," signal the beginning of the end for the efforts of DC Comics to match Marvel in producing blockbuster films? What about the apparent cutback in schedules of some of their titles, and will DC Comics expand its focus on super hero TV shows on The CW network? In talking about the Apple media event, Jeff suggests that only the iPad will be introduced, and that any new Macs to be launched this fall will be heralded by nothing more than a press release. What about new reports that Apple plans to ditch Intel processors in 2020 and 2021 and install its own A-series processors on new Macs? What will the possible impact be?

View Details

This week, we are joined by Daniel Rubino, executive editor of Windows Central,who covers a few key stories from the tech world, starting with an historical view of Skype, after Gene complains yet again about the glitches in the latest Mac version. The discussion moves to Microsoft's decision to withdraw a faulty Windows 10 upgrade for October, 2018, due to critical problems, such as user files being erased. And what about the decision by Google to discontinue its Plus social network after a serious security flaw, hidden by Google, was revealed? Daniel will also discuss Microsoft Surface lineup, and how it serves to influence the rest of the PC industry.

View Details

This week, we are joined by independent tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Wirecutter and other publications. The discussion begins with the curious tale of a BusinessWeek report claiming that the Chinese engaged in a hacking operation that impacted servers installed by Apple, Amazon and other tech companies, along with strong denials that any such thing occurred. The discussion moves on to iOS 12, and how it appears to work well even on older hardware, such as Rob's iMac mini 4. And what bout the state of browser competition between Chrome, Firefox and Safari, and does Microsoft's Edge for Windows alternative even have a chance? There's also a discussion about Washington's interest in tech privacy, autonomous vehicles and, of course, Tesla's recent troubles with the SEC after CEO Elon Musk made some unfortunate comments on Twitter about the company allegedly planning to go private.

In a very special encore segment, you'll also hear from tech editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. During this segment, Bryan will talk at length about Apple's September 12th media event, in which three new iPhone X variants were demonstrated. Bryan covers his experiences in ordering one of the new smartphones, plus an Apple Watch Series 4. As a long-time user of luxury watches, Bryan relates his experience with an Apple Watch Series 2 and his expectations for the Series 4, which includes more health-related features, such as an ECG to measure the health of your heart. There is also some talk about the forthcoming iOS 12.

View Details

In a very special encore episode, we present writer/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS, both of whom talk about their different approaches to watching TV. Gene actually cares about the technology, while Adam will more or less accept anything that works. The Apple TV isn't treated well by Gene, who suggests that at least some sets with built-in smart features are more or less just as useful. There's also a discussion about the HomePod, and its tendency to sound a little bassy. And what about Siri? Has it truly reached its potential or does it need work? What about a published report that some of the original Siri employees at Apple were unhappy with its direction and how Apple handled its development. Or would it take an improved scheme to handle its higher and higher load on Apple's servers? Gene suggests an error correcting feature, where you inform Siri when it makes a mistake and give it permission to allow Apple to record the problem.

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who also focuses on the so-called Siri follies. Gene repeats his suggestion about setting up an error-correcting feature to improve its accuracy. Jeff mentions the recent auction of a job application from Steve Jobs, as Gene wonders why anyone would actually care about such a thing, while Jeff reminds us of Jobs' influence on society. There's also a pop culture discussion that includes well-known character actors and how they enhance the value of a film or TV show. Focusing on 4K TV, Gene and Jeff discuss the confusion and incompatibilities of HDR. Even if a TV or set-top box supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision, not all sets will be able to present content in both formats. To make matters all the more confusing, not all sets support HDR from all HDMI ports, even the ones that are supposed to support these formats.

View Details

This week we return to cybersecurity with Carlos Perez, principal consultant and head of APT (advanced persistent threat) research at TrustedSec. Carlos is tasked with investigating the latest hacking techniques and tools being used by sophisticated cyber-criminals from around the world. As part of his work, he also trains the DoD's "hunt teams" known as Cyber Protection Units, or CPTs, which are like the rapid response teams for national security cyber incidents. The CPTs are flown out on C130s. There will also be a heavy focus on common sense security tips that you can use to help protect yourself from online danger.

In a special encore segment, you'll also hear from industry expert Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. Stephen will discuss Apple sales, particularly the saturation of the smartphone market. What about those outrageous claims that the iPhone X was a miserable failure, and that suppliers had received reduced orders from Apple even though sales hit record levels? Stephen will also talk about the state of the PC market, including the recent drop in Mac sales. Gene and Stephen discuss the prospects for the HomePod, which hasn't been a big seller, and set-top streamers from Apple, Amazon and Roku. Is it true that Apple TV sales are much lower than the others? What about the efforts to move more product by offering an Apple TV with special sign-up offers from AT&T's DirecTV Now, and reports that Charter, one of the larger cable companies in the U.S., will be offering Apple TV. Gene wonders if we even need one of these devices with more and more TVs offering a decent collection of "smart" features.

View Details

This week we present a thorough look at tech, microchip credit cards, and identity theft with credit repair specialist Darius Norman, author of "Rewriting Financial Rules." Following the introduction of microchip equipped credit cards in 2015 in the United States, which make the cards difficult to counterfeit, criminals focused on new account fraud. We are also seeing thieves going after our children’s social security numbers to do this, so our children are in danger and may never know until they are old enough to apply for credit themselves. What do we do? Darius also focuses on what you should do in the event your credit history or identity are compromised, as Gene reveals some of his personal experiences.

You'll also hear from tech editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. During this segment, Bryan will talk at length about Apple's September 12th media event, in which three new iPhone X variants were demonstrated. Bryan covers his experiences in ordering one of the new smartphones, plus an Apple Watch Series 4. As a long-time user of luxury watches, Bryan relates his experience with an Apple Watch Series 2 and his expectations for the Series 4, which includes more health-related features, such as an ECG to measure the health of your heart. There is also some talk about the forthcoming iOS 12.The Tech Night Owl LIVE Sept 8, 2018

View Details

This week we present a very special encore episode that features ethical hacker Jason Lang of TrustedSec, who reports on the goings at a major hacking conference known as Black Hat. It's one of the top cybersecurity events where a ton of new vulnerabilities and hacker tricks are revealed. This year, as usual, they are revealing new attacks on smartphones, wearables, computers and other personal gadgets, along with IoT, cars and more. Also to be presented is new research on criminal trends in the Dark Web. Jason provides common sense details about the various tricks of the hacker trade, and how you can protect yourself from intrusions. Gene also recounts a recent attempt by a hacker to exact ransom from him for something he didn't even do. Desperation?

View Details

This week we feature commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who focuses on the new product and service announcements expected at Apple's media event set for September 12, 2018 at their new Cupertino, CA campus. In addition to the rumored iPhone introductions, will there be a Series 4 Apple Watch, perhaps with a slightly larger display in a slightly slimmer case? What about new iPads, or will they join new Macs later this year. And why doesn't Josh think that his Apple Watch is that good a product? You'll also hear a discussion about the prospects for Apple TV's success, and about the 55-inch TCL TV, with Roku, which he bought when his 2015 Sony TV suddenly failed. You'll also hear a discussion of iOS 12, which is also the subject of a book from Josh, entitled "Take Control of iOS 12."

In a very special encore segment, you'll hear from commentator Rene Ritchie from iMore. During this episode, Rene will talk about the recent Google I/O event, focusing mainly on a controversial AI demo. What about the fact that Google seems more focused on flashy demos than user privacy? What about published reports that the AI demo may have been faked? He'll also talk about Apple's ongoing problems with Siri, which hasn't advanced all that much since its introduction in 2011. What does Apple have to do to make it comparable to digital assistants from Amazon and Google? Did the introduction of the HomePod reveal Siri's limitations in a way that convinces Apple to fix what's broken? You'll also hear Rene's reaction to all those fake news stories that the iPhone X was a huge failure, even while it became the best selling smartphone on the planet for two straight quarters. He'll offer a possible reason why investors have continued to spread false rumors about iPhone sales over the years.

View Details

This week we feature outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, who talks about reports that Google is still tracking people even after they have switched off that feature. So what is this all about anyway? Kirk will also explain why he seldom uses his Apple TV anymore, as Gene reminds listeners that he hasn’t touched his in nearly a year. Is Apple’s decision to allow pay-TV services to offer them as premiums for new customers help boost sales? Kirk will also explain why he recently canceled his Netflix account, but keeps Amazon Prime. There will also be a brief discussion about the potential of the next iPhone lineup from Apple, as Kirk answers the question of whether he’s going to buy one. Gene recounts his problems with an iPhone 5c that recently became unable to sustain a reliable connection in an area with a signal the carrier claims is average.

In a very special encore segment, you’ll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. The bill of fare this week includes Apple CEO Tim Cook’s denial that Apple plans to merge iOS and macOS into some sort of converged product. What about Amazon’s Fire TV Edition sets, and will they do what Apple TV can’t? Should Apple be licensing its set-top box technology to TV makers? John also discusses the reported struggles of the HomePod, and how the next Mac Pro, due in 2019, will be “fundamentally different” from previous models because Apple plans to focus heavily on making professional workflows run more efficiently. And what about Apple’s recent educational event, where a new $329 iPad was introduced? Could it be that Apple is attempting to regain traction in the educational market with an obsolete formula? Can they possibly turn things around, or are Chromebooks going to continue to stay ahead?

View Details

In a special encore episode, we feature commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who joins Gene in an extended pop culture chat. After a brief talk about the first female Doctor Who, as portrayed by Jodie Whittaker, the focus moves to comic book movies, and the dark approach taken by DC Comics compared to the lighter fare from Marvel. Gene provides a detailed report about SHAZAM, a character that once competed with Superman, which will be featured in a movie next year. You’ll also hear about the new MacBook Pro, and whether Apple addressed the concerns over the previous model. There is also talk about whether there will be an update to the iPhone SE, the next Apple Watch, the pending merger between Sprint and T-Mobile, and the problems Netflix encountered in boosting subscriptions in the last quarter.

You’ll also hear from about election hacking risks and the uproar over the Helsinki summit. Featured on this segment is Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba Security. Last fall, Casaba and his company explored possible voting system vulnerabilities for a couple of national groups, and the potential problems exhibited by different machines. What about the electronic voting units that do not offer paper backup? What about the chances of hacking returns and altering the results? Gene and Jason engage in a lengthy discussion about the flaws, particularly involving older equipment with obsolete embedded operating systems that can no longer be patched to fix security flaws.

View Details

This week we present ethical hacker Jason Lang of TrustedSec, who reports on the goings at a major hacking conference known as Black Hat. It’s one of the top cybersecurity events where a ton of new vulnerabilities and hacker tricks are revealed. This year, as usual, they are revealing new attacks on smartphones, wearables, computers and other personal gadgets, along with IoT, cars and more. Also to be presented is new research on criminal trends in the Dark Web. Jason provides common sense details about the various tricks of the hacker trade, and how you can protect yourself from intrusions. Gene also recounts a recent attempt by a hacker to exact ransom from him for something he didn’t even do. Desperation?

You’ll also hear from industry expert Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. Stephen will discuss Apple sales, particularly the saturation of the smartphone market. What about those outrageous claims that the iPhone X was a miserable failure, and that suppliers had received reduced orders from Apple even though sales hit record levels? Stephen will also talk about the state of the PC market, including the recent drop in Mac sales. Gene and Stephen discuss the prospects for the HomePod, which hasn’t been a big seller, and set-top streamers from Apple, Amazon and Roku. Is it true that Apple TV sales are much lower than the others? What about the efforts to move more product by offering an Apple TV with special sign-up offers from AT&T’s DirecTV Now, and reports that Charter, one of the larger cable companies in the U.S., will be offering Apple TV. Gene wonders if we even need one of these devices with more and more TVs offering a decent collection of “smart” features.

View Details

This week we feature irrepressible commentator/podcaster Peter Cohen, who focuses on Apple's recent report of stellar sales for the June 2018 quarter, and becoming the first company to exceed a one trillion dollar market cap despite the skeptics saying Amazon would get there first. What about the extreme disconnect between the claims from some alleged industry analysts that the iPhone X was a huge failure, even after Apple CEO Tim Cook announced it was their top-selling smartphone (and the top selling smartphone on Earth) for three quarters in a row. Peter also expresses his concerns about the 13% drop in Mac sales for the last quarter, and whether Apple has dropped the ball in creating compelling new models that will restart sales.

In a special encore segment, you'll also hear from outspoken columnist Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic," who talks about reports of an "iPhone addiction," in which people supposedly pay too much attention to their smartphones. Gene mentions the well-known phenomenon of lines and lines of people walking about looking down at their mobile gear. Apple's CarPlay is briefly mentioned, along with the 2018 CES in which, again, many of the announcements involved gadgets that will never see the light of day. Jonny brings up privacy in connection with Amazon's Alexa, about the world's largest online retailer's interface turning up on some TV sets. After Gene lists the connection cables he needs for his TV and his iMac, Jonny makes a strong pitch for "cable free," in which all your gear can be connected without the need for wires and endless wire clutter.

View Details

This week we feature commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who covers Facebook's ongoing woes, which resulted in a substantial loss of its market cap and a huge drop in co-founder Mark Zuckerberg's net worth. Will Facebook regain its glory, or are too many people suspicious of its apparent lack of concern for your privacy? Gene and Bryan also talk about the throttling problem with the 2018 MacBook Pro, which Apple largely fixed with a software update. But does its thin and light design still prevent the powerful Intel Core i9 processor from reaching its full potential? What about reports of a kernel panic bug that impacts some of the new MacBook Pros and the iMac Pro? Bryan also explains why Ultra HD Blu-ray players, which support 4K video, may not be needed because of the growth of 4K streaming.

View Details

This week we feature commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who joins Gene in an extended pop culture chat. After a brief talk about the first female Doctor Who, as portrayed by Jodie Whittaker, the focus moves to comic book movies, and the dark approach taken by DC Comics compared to the lighter fare from Marvel. Gene provides a detailed report about SHAZAM, a character that once competed with Superman, which will be featured in a movie next year. You'll also hear about the new MacBook Pro, and whether Apple addressed the concerns over the previous model. There is also talk about whether there will be an update to the iPhone SE, the next Apple Watch, the pending merger between Sprint and T-Mobile, and the problems Netflix encountered in boosting subscriptions in the last quarter.

You'll also hear from about election hacking risks and the uproar over the Helsinki summit. Featured on this segment is Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba Security. Last fall, Casaba and his company explored possible voting system vulnerabilities for a couple of national groups, and the potential problems exhibited by different machines. What about the electronic voting units that do not offer paper backup? What about the chances of hacking returns and altering the results? Gene and Jason engage in a lengthy discussion about the flaws, particularly involving older equipment with obsolete embedded operating systems that can no longer be patched to fix security flaws.

View Details

This week we feature commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who covers Apple's surprising release of a major update for the MacBook Pro. The refresh features 6-core processors, solid state drives as large as 4TB and up to 32GB RAM, twice as much as Apple has previously offered. Is this the professional notebook that many users have craved after expressing disappointment with the models offered over the past two years? Josh will also provide speculation about a possible future successor to the Mac, using an ARM-based CPU instead of Intel. Will this be a sort of convergence machine offering features derived from the iPad and Mac, or something altogether new? There will also be a discussion about health and fitness privacy, where Gene wonders if anyone would care if it got out that he's just shy of six feet one inch tall and weighs 178.5 pounds?

In a special encore presentation, you’ll also hear from tech columnist and former industry analyst Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. During this episode, Joe will explain why he regards Apple’s Siri voice assistant as worse than Microsoft’s Skype, despite all the connection glitches with the latter. Will hiring former Google executives help Apple make Siri more responsive and accurate, without sacrificing your security? You’ll also hear about Google I/O and Android P, and about all those fake news reports that the iPhone X was unsuccessful. For two quarters straight, however, Apple reported that the iPhone X was not only its best selling smartphone for each week it was on sale, but the hottest selling smartphone on the planet. Gene shares his 20 years experience with the iMac, which began with the original Bondi Blue model that he beta tested for Apple as part of the former Customer Quality Feedback (CQF) program. You’ll also hear about the Apple Watch and whether it makes sense for Apple to switch Macs from Intel to ARM CPUs.continued to spread false rumors about iPhone sales over the years.

View Details

In a special encore episode, we are joined by tech journalist Derek Kessler, managing editor of Mobile Nations — who also leads their coverage of the Tesla. The owner of a Tesla Model S luxury sports sedan, Derek offers sage insights into recent reports of problems with self-driving vehicles, such as Tesla's Autopilot. He cites cases involving a Tesla and an autonomous driving test vehicle from Uber, the ride hailing company. Are self-driving features ready for prime time, or will it take longer, much longer, for them to become fully dependable? What about drivers being lulled into a false sense of security when exposed to such systems? Derek also discusses his experiences with his Model S, and the prospects for the company's Model 3 mid-sized vehicle. Will production hit acceptable targets before the company runs out of cash? What about widespread charging stations, and what about all the incompatible systems?

You'll also hear from commentator Rene Ritchie from iMore. During this episode, Rene will talk about the recent Google I/O event, focusing mainly on a controversial AI demo. What about the fact that Google seems more focused on flashy demos than user privacy? What about published reports that the AI demo may have been faked? He'll also talk about Apple's ongoing problems with Siri, which hasn't advanced all that much since its introduction in 2011. What does Apple have to do to make it comparable to digital assistants from Amazon and Google? Did the introduction of the HomePod reveal Siri's limitations in a way that convinces Apple to fix what's broken? You'll also hear Rene's reaction to all those fake news stories that the iPhone X was a huge failure, even while it became the best selling smartphone on the planet for two straight quarters. He'll offer a possible reason why investors have continued to spread false rumors about iPhone sales over the years.

View Details

This week we present commentator Rene Ritchie from iMore. During this episode, Rene will offer a detailed overview of Apple's iOS 12, based on a lengthy preview article he wrote recently. iOS 12 is now available for download as a public beta, for release this fall. You'll learn about all the clever programming tricks Apple's developers used to make the new mobile OS run noticeably faster, especially on older gear, going as far back as the iPhone 6. While most of the new features are largely under the surface, there are a number of useful innovations. As part of an effort to boost Siri's accuracy, reliability and usability, Apple has launched Siri Shortcuts, which allows you to automate functions and activate them by voice. You'll also learn about macOS Mojave, and why Gene is not able to install it on his 2010 MacBook Pro due to Apple's design decisions.

You’ll also go shopping with Thrifter's Louryn Strampe as she offers a tech preview of Amazon Prime Day. This is the event where Amazon offers a whole range of special discounts for alert shoppers. Louryn is a senior editor with Thrifter (Mobile Nation's deal-tracking news site) and she's a former deals specialist with BFAds. This episode doesn't just focus on Amazon Prime, but on how Thrifter seeks out online bargains that can save you lots of money, plus verify that the offers are genuine and come from reliable companies. Gene and Louryn tour the site, covering different categories of merchandise, plus the site's newsletters, blogs and other features. The shopping tour includes Gene's search for a bargain for his pet bichon's favorite dog food, plus information about a one-day offer where a highly-rated TV set was heavily discounted.

View Details

This week, we invite you to meet Major General (Ret) Earl D. Matthews: He spent three decades at the nexus of big budgets and cybersecurity, including stints as Director, Cyberspace Operations and Chief Information Security Officer at HQ, U.S. Air Force, and VP for Enterprise Security Solutions at Hewlett-Packard. In his current role as Senior VP and Chief Strategy Officer at Verodin, Inc., he champions the concept of security instrumentation, a process that continuously validates the effectiveness of each security element in place. During this episode, he'll cover a gamut of cybersecurity issues that include the privacy issues at Facebook, the DNC hack, along with managing your personal privacy at a time when tens of millions of Americans have had their credit reports hacked. Major General Matthews will also reveal two episodes of ID theft that impacted his own family.

You'll also hear from tech columnist and former industry analyst Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. During this episode, Joe will explain why he regards Apple's Siri voice assistant as worse than Microsoft's Skype, despite all the connection glitches with the latter. Will hiring former Google executives help Apple make Siri more responsive and accurate, without sacrificing your security? You'll also hear about Google I/O and Android P, and about all those fake news reports that the iPhone X was unsuccessful. For two quarters straight, however, Apple reported that the iPhone X was not only its best selling smartphone for each week it was on sale, but the hottest selling smartphone on the planet. Gene shares his 20 years experience with the iMac, which began with the original Bondi Blue model that he beta tested for Apple as part of the former Customer Quality Feedback (CQF) program. You'll also hear about the Apple Watch and whether it makes sense for Apple to switch Macs from Intel to ARM CPUs.

View Details

This weekend our guests include outspoken writer/editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, The discussion includes Apple's efforts to expand its AR efforts, and Gene's concern that it probably won't mean much unless you're into gaming. And what sort of AR glasses might Apple devise to avoid the problems that afflicted the failed Google Glass? There is also a lengthy discussion of Apple's TV prospects, where it is spending an estimated one billion dollars or more to create original content with well-known producers and directors. What format will Apple use to present these shows, which are expected to debut beginning in 2019? Will it be something to accompany Apple Music, thus Apple Music and TV? Or will Apple establish a totally separate streaming service for its new content? Gene expresses his skepticism that the world is ready for yet another streaming TV service what with so many available already, whereas Bryan feels it won't be part of Apple TV.

In a very special encore segment, you'll also hear from long-time Apple guru and prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, as Gene recounts yet another episode of his ongoing troubles with AT&T when he tried to take advantage of a cheap offer for DirecTV. Gene explains why he's kept AT&T service for his iPhone even though there are other and possibly better alternatives. Bob says he switched from AT&T to T-Mobile. There's also a brief discussion of "world backup day," as Gene facetiously suggests that maybe the show ought to go back in time to honor the event in the proper fashion. And what about published reports that future versions of macOS and iOS might allow you to run the same apps on both? And what about recent speculation that Apple will someday ditch using Intel processors on Macs and make yet another processor move, to the same A-series ARM chips used on iPhones and iPads? Is this a reasonable possibility, or would the fact that many Mac users need to run Windows at native speeds make such a move unfeasible?

View Details

This weekend our guests focus mainly on Apple's 2018 Worldwide Developer's Conference (WWDC) and its June 4th keynote featuring CEO Tim Cook and several members of his executive team. During that event, the wraps were taken off iOS 12, macOS 10.14 Mojave, tvOS 12, and watchOS 5; all will be released this fall. We talk about the splashy new features, and the ones that aren't so flashy but might impact the user experience. Among the topics discussed are the planned improvements to Apple's Siri digital assistant, which includes Siri Shortcuts, an easy automation feature reminiscent of AppleScript, and the planned performance improvements of at least 50% to older hardware that runs iOS 12. With macOS 10.14, the new Dark Mode will be profiled, along with announced Finder improvements that'll make it easier to manage cluttered desktops on your Mac. There will also be discussions about what's forthcoming in tvOS 12, and whether any of it is compelling, and what about the walkie-talkie feature planed for watchOS 5, which will impact Apple Watch this fall?

Our special guests include outspoken podcaster and columnist Kirk McElhearn, who also details his concerns about Skype, and a problem he encountered due to a severe lack of security protections. During the second half of the show, we feature commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who will also talk about the experience of watching his bed-in-a-box expand to several times its size after removing it from the box and separating the plastic wrappings. Jeff will also focus some on pop culture, and the latest security problems with Facebook.

View Details

The weekend before Apple's Worldwide Developer's Conference (WWDC), the Night Owl assembles a panel of expert commentators to speculate on what Apple might announce. The main expected development is the launch of the newest operating systems for iPhones, iPads, Apple TV, Apple Watch and Macs. Will there be loads of new tentpole features, or, as some rumors claim, will Apple take a more measured approach, to reduce the possibility of bugs, a problem that hurt the reliability of iOS 11 and macOS High Sierra. Our panel willl also speculate on whether or not Apple plans to introduce new Macs and other products. There has been speculation on both sides, mentioning at least some new hardware, or no hardware at all. What about the possibility that Apple will someday release at least some Macs using Apple's ARM-based CPU? Is that the result of the obstacles Intel has confronted in releasing new silicon? You'll also hear speculation about whether Apple is prepared to demonstrate its promised revision to the Mac Pro, which is expected to be released in 2019, and is the Mac mini an endangered species despite a recent statement from CEO Tim Cook that the company "loves" its smallest and cheapest Mac?

Our guest panel includes outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen, and commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who also explains why he finds it difficult, if not impossible, to recommend any of Apple's current Macs. Josh will also talk about the confusion surrounding all those updated privacy statements to comply with the EU's difficult-to-understand GDPR regulations.

View Details

This week, we are joined by tech journalist Derek Kessler, managing editor of Mobile Nations — who also leads their coverage of the Tesla. The owner of a Tesla Model S luxury sports sedan, Derek offers sage insights into recent reports of problems with self-driving vehicles, such as Tesla's Autopilot. He cites cases involving a Tesla and an autonomous driving test vehicle from Uber, the ride hailing company. Are self-driving features ready for prime time, or will it take longer, much longer, for them to become fully dependable? What about drivers being lulled into a false sense of security when exposed to such systems? Derek also discusses his experiences with his Model S, and the prospects for the company's Model 3 mid-sized vehicle. Will production hit acceptable targets before the company runs out of cash? What about widespread charging stations, and what about all the incompatible systems?

View Details

This week, we present commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles, who focuses a main part of his conversation with Gene on Apple’s record earnings for the March 2018 quarter. Despite all the unfounded rumors of poor iPhone X sales, which hurt the company’s stock price for several weeks, Apple reported that its flagship smartphone was its top-selling gadget for every week it was on sale — and thus the top-selling handset on the planet. You’ll also hear about Apple’s decision to discontinue AirPort Wi-Fi routers, why it may have occurred, and possible alternatives. And what about the announcement that, once again, T-Mobile and Sprint are attempting a merger. Will this play out this time with a different administration in Washington? Will customers receive better service, and how will prices be impacted? What about the fate of employees of both companies, and merging two incompatible cellular networks. Josh also explains why, for now, he’s basically stuck with Verizon Wireless in the rural area in which he lives.

You’l also hear from outspoken columnist Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who explains why false rumors about alleged poor iPhone X sales got his dander up. Gene and Bryan will talk at length about such fake stories, and how Apple actually fared during the March quarter compared to last year. There are also discussions about the proposed T-Mobile/Sprint merger, and how the plan differs from AT&T’s plans to join forces with Time Warner. Will the political winds in Washington force AT&T to ditch CNN to get the merger approved by the Department of Justice? There’s also a discussion about the news that Twitter has asked its entire membership to change their passwords because of a purported error in storing them internally in plan text. Twitter claims outsiders were not impacted, but that didn’t stop Gene from immediately changing his password.

View Details

This week, we present outspoken commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who briefly talks about the Slenderman urban legend, which is featured on our other radio show, The Paracast, before jumping full tilt into technology. There will be a detailed discussion about Apple's decision to discontinue AirPort routers, and why, after pioneering that business, it decided to give it all up. What about reports that the HomePod smart speaker system isn't selling so well? What about a thought piece. so to speak, in Macworld about products Apple ought to give up? Gene and Jeff point out that one of the items on the list, the Mac mini continues to get the love from Apple with positive statements from such executives as Tim Cook and Philip Schiller. The state of iTunes for Mac and Windows is discussed, plus the possibility that Apple might move the Mac platform to its customized ARM-based processors, or is there yet another option?

In a special encore presentation, you'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Wirecutter and other publications. He discusses in detail his trip to Cape Canaveral to watch the launch of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch vehicle, the most powerful rocket ship the company has developed so far. Rob will also explain what happened when he got lost. He briefly talks about his expectations for Apple's smart speaker, the HomePod before discussing unexpected privacy issues involving an activity-tracking social network known as Strava, and the downsides of publicly revealing the location of its users, especially if that location is a secret U.S. military base. The privacy of connected cars is also discussed, particularly concerns about all that driving data a car collects, which can be used by insurance company, with a plugin receiver, to track your driving record. Gene and Rob also discuss whether car makers should make it easy for you to erase your data when you trade in the vehicle or its totaled.

View Details

This week, we present outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen, who focuses on such topics as recent concerns about the alleged poor sales of Apple's HomePod smart speaker system. You'll also hear Peter explain why he loves his Apple Watch, what he uses it for, and about its ongoing success; it's now the best selling wearable in he world. And what about the possibilities for the next Mac Pro, due some time in 2019 according to Apple? What about renewed rumors that Apple plans to move Macs from Intel processors to its own ARM-based designs? Are there pitfalls? What about emulating Intel apps, at least at the start, and running Windows apps as you can do now on a Mac? To be brief, Gene remains skeptical that it's going to happen anytime soon.

You'll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. The bill of fare this week includes Apple CEO Tim Cook's denial that Apple plans to merge iOS and macOS into some sort of converged product. What about Amazon's Fire TV Edition sets, and will they do what Apple TV can't? Should Apple be licensing its set-top box technology to TV makers? John also discusses the reported struggles of the HomePod, and how the next Mac Pro, due in 2019, will be "fundamentally different" from previous models because Apple plans to focus heavily on making professional workflows run more efficiently. And what about Apple's recent educational event, where a new $329 iPad was introduced? Could it be that Apple is attempting to regain traction in the educational market with an obsolete formula? Can they possibly turn things around, or are Chromebooks going to continue to stay ahead?

View Details

This week, we present security expert Chris Weber, co-founder of Casaba Security, a Seattle-based ethical hacking firm that advises major tech, financial, retail and healthcare companies. They also work with companies to develop secure apps and software. He is the co-author of the book, "Privacy Defended: Protecting Yourself Online." During this session, Chris will discuss the growing brouhaha over Facebook privacy, and the kind of information they collect about their users. Its unexpected involvement with the 2016 Presidential campaign is also covered, and what about the appearance of Facebook Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg before Congress? You'll also hear Chris talk in general about protecting your privacy, and making it harder for hackers to take control of your accounts by using strong passwords and two-step authentication, which involves adding a second method, often a smartphone, to provide extra security from hackers.

You'll also hear from long-time Apple guru and prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, as Gene recounts yet another episode of his ongoing troubles with AT&T when he tried to take advantage of a cheap offer for DirecTV. Gene explains why he's kept AT&T service for his iPhone even though there are other and possibly better alternatives. Bob says he switched from AT&T to T-Mobile. There's also a brief discussion of "world backup day," as Gene facetiously suggests that maybe the show ought to go back in time to honor the event in the proper fashion. And what about published reports that future versions of macOS and iOS might allow you to run the same apps on both? And what about recent speculation that Apple will someday ditch using Intel processors on Macs and make yet another processor move, to the same A-series ARM chips used on iPhones and iPads? Is this a reasonable possibility, or would the fact that many Mac users need to run Windows at native speeds make such a move unfeasible?

View Details

This week, we present author and commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who devotes a heavy portion of this segment to focus on the inconsistencies of the two HDR formats for 4K TV, HDR10 and Dolby Vision. He cites instances where it doesn't seem to work even on sets where it's supposedly compatible. Gene and Josh also discuss Apple's recent decision to hire John Giannandrea, former chief of search and artificial intelligence for Google. Will this new employee help Apple fix Siri's problems and advance its AI and VR efforts? Gene expresses his concerns about the quality of the first batch of TV shows reportedly scheduled for production by Apple as part of its expanded entertainment roster. And will it be a value-added feature of Apple Music?

You'll also hear from Ben Williams of Adblock Plus. Ad blocking has experienced a lot of activity over the past year, especially since Google entered the fray with its ad filter for Chrome. There are still battles between publishers and ad blockers, and payment systems to publishers from users are being talked about with more frequency. Gene and Ben will engage in an extended discussion about the value of online advertising, and the long history of making it as offensive as possible. There will also be a pop culture discussion, about ads that build branding images based on using a well-known personality, such as Oscar winning actor J.K. Simmons, known for Farmers Insurance commercials and loads of movies and TV shows, including the recent comic book film, "Justice League," where he played Commissioner Gordon. You'll also learn how ad blockers can be configured to allow ads that have been approved for content and presentation.

View Details

On this week's episode, we feature outspoken podcaster and columnist Kirk McElhearn, who focuses heavily on his experiences with Apple's HomePod. He explains the problems he's found with the product, particularly a bassy response, and problems with Apple's Siri voice assistant. Will future software updates allow you to adjust the frequency profile of a HomePod, other than with iTunes? What about improving Siri's recognition accuracy? What about eliminating the problem where it leaves white rings on wood surfaces that are tied or waxed? Kirk also covers possible future Macs, such as a new Mac Pro and whether there will be an upgrade to the Mac mini, which hasn't been updated since 2014? Gene continues his suggestion that HP's Z2 Mini Workstation is a potential future direction with the Mac mini, offering powerful performance at a relatively low cost.

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, He also talks about the HomePad, and his perception of its sonic quality and future prospects. What about the still-delayed AirPlay 2 feature that was first promised to Apple users in iOS 11 last year? What about the curious disconnect between unproven claims that iPhone X sales collapsed last year, compared to Apple's own financials that indicated high sales and revenue for iPhones, and reports that the iPhone X was the highest selling model on the planet during the weeks it was on sale? How do such false stories get started and why do they continue even after Apple reviewed the truth? There's also talk about the unexpected success of the Apple Watch which, in 2017, became the number one best selling wearable on the planet. This comes after the Apple Watch was regarded as a tepid performer in the marketplace for so long.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we present writer/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS, both of whom talk about their different approaches to watching TV. Gene actually cares about the technology, while Adam will more or less accept anything that works. The Apple TV isn’t treated well by Gene, who suggests that at least some sets with built-in smart features are more or less just as useful. There’s also a discussion about the HomePod, and its tendency to sound a little bassy. And what about Siri? Has it truly reached its potential or does it need work? What about a published report that some of the original Siri employees at Apple were unhappy with its direction and how Apple handled its development. Or would it take an improved scheme to handle its higher and higher load on Apple’s servers? Gene suggests an error correcting feature, where you inform Siri when it makes a mistake and give it permission to allow Apple to record the problem.

You’ll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who also focuses on the so-called Siri follies. Gene repeats his suggestion about setting up an error-correcting feature to improve its accuracy. Jeff mentions the recent auction of a job application from Steve Jobs, as Gene wonders why anyone would actually care about such a thing, while Jeff reminds us of Jobs’ influence on society. There’s also a pop culture discussion that includes well-known character actors and how they enhance the value of a film or TV show. Focusing on 4K TV, Gene and Jeff discuss the confusion and incompatibilities of HDR. Even if a TV or set-top box supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision, not all sets will be able to present content in both formats. To make matters all the more confusing, not all sets support HDR from all HDMI ports, even the ones that are supposed to support these formats.

View Details

This week, we present a classic encore episode featuring John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. John’s talking points include the HomePod, and whether some of the critical reviewers, including Consumer Reports magazine, were expecting too much from it. He also brings up a possible sensitivity with nearby objects, where the presence of a salt shaker close to a HomePod seriously hurt sound quality. The discussion moves to 4K/UHD TV, which John says has finally come of age. In a slightly technical discussion, John explains how the expensive iMac Pro can exploit up to 18 cores and whether any of that holds any value for the typical Mac or PC user. There’s also a discussion about a blogger’s curious and overwrought reaction to a pair of visits to an Apple Store that, after some delays, had a favorable result. And why is Apple’s complex product lineup “perfect?”

You’ll also hear from Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles, who explains how he got an Apple TV 4K at a big discount, and why he’s becoming disenchanted with the product and why he likes Google Chromecast more and more. In turn, Gene reminds listeners that his VIZIO TV has an embedded Chomecast system known as SmartCast, and why he hasn’t used his Apple TV, an older model, in over two months. And what about the HomePod and the so-called scandal involving white rings being left on oiled or waxed wood surfaces by its silicone base? Should Apple have explained this limitation earlier? What about reports that the Sonos One leaves white traces from its silicone feet? Josh also explains why he’s about to give up on Apple Music.

View Details

We feature commentator Russell Holly, managing editor of Mobile Nations, who focuses first on the proposals for "Right to Repair" laws in a number of states, including, most recently, California. What about giving consumers the right to buy genuine OEM parts for their tech gear, such as iPhones, and have access to service manuals? Can Apple and other companies void your warranty because you decided to fix your gear yourself, buy gray market parts, and/or have the repairs done at a shop not authorized by the manufacturer? Gene and Russell also talk at length about Samsung's Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ smartphones, recently introduced, and how they might compare with the iPhone X. What about the cameras, and which model delivers the best pictures? Did Samsung improve the quality of its facial and iris recognition features? There' also talk about the HomePod, which has proven to be somewhat controversial when it comes to its audio signature, with some saying it's too bassy.

You'll also hear from commentator/podcaster Peter Cohen, who also focuses on "Right to Repair" and the upsides and downsides. Peter offers his personal experiences as the employee of an authorized Apple dealer some years ago and how it influenced his opinion about whether Apple and other companies need to allow more repair freedom. There's also a brief discussion about the concept of states' rights and how it affects customers where such laws vary from state to state. The discussion also focuses on the HomePod and its possible value as a smart speaker. Both Gene and Peter explain, at length, why a HomePod is not on their shopping lists right now, and whether Apple could sell more copies if it loosened its dependence on Apple's ecosystem when it comes to being able to listen to your stuff.

View Details

Gene and guest cohost J. Randall Murphy present Fortean/paranormal researcher Joshua Cutchin. who takes us on a fascinating journey through the nooks and crannies of the world of the paranormal, folklore and the frontiers of consciousness. Among the cases discussed, the curious UFO contact from 1961 involving chicken farmer Joe Simonton, who claims to have been presented with bad-tasting buckwheat pancakes from short swarthy aliens in a flying saucer, a story that has never been explained. Joshua is the author of two books: 2015's "A Trojan Feast: The Food and Drink Offerings of Aliens, Faeries, and Sasquatch." and 2016's "The Brimstone Deceit: An In-Depth Examination of Supernatural Scents, Otherworldly Odors, & Monstrous Miasmas." He is also author of the forthcoming, "Thieves In The Night: Paranormal Child Abduction From the Faerie Faith to the UFO Era."

View Details

In a special encore presentation, we feature cybersecurity expert Dr. Eric Cole, Ph.D., who served as Cybersecurity Commissioner for President Obama, the personal cybersecurity advisor for Bill Gates and his family, is a former Senior Vice President at McAfee, and was the Chief Scientist at Lockheed Martin, where he specialized in secure network design advising the Dept. of Defense, the FBI, and the Dept. of Homeland Security. A leading expert on cybersecurity, Dr. Cole will discuss consumer protection, major corporate hacks, such as the large-scale intrusion into Equifax that impacted tens of millions of people, and cybersecurity best practices. Dr. Eric Cole’s newest book is "Online Danger: How to protect yourself and your loved ones from the evil side of the internet."

You'll also hear from outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen, who has a lot to say about the recent revelation that Apple deliberately throttles iPhone performance when the battery is deteriorated. Confronted with class-action lawsuits, Apple has not only apologized for not informing customers in advance of what it was doing, but is offering to replace batteries on the affected models for $29 beginning in late January of 2018, and release an iOS update that will allow you to check battery health. The difficulty in improving battery technology to make them hold a charge longer and handle more charging cycles is also discussed. Gene brings up the Apple TV 4K, and whether smart TV sets, such as the 2017 VIZIO M-Series display that he's reviewing, which contains Google Chromecast, lessens the need for a separate streaming box.

View Details

This week's guests include commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. John's talking points include the HomePod, and whether some of the critical reviewers, including Consumer Reports magazine, were expecting too much from it. He also brings up a possible sensitivity with nearby objects, where the presence of a salt shaker close to a HomePod seriously hurt sound quality. The discussion moves to 4K/UHD TV, which John says has finally come of age. In a slightly technical discussion, John explains how the expensive iMac Pro can exploit up to 18 cores and whether any of that holds any value for the typical Mac or PC user. There's also a discussion about a blogger's curious and overwrought reaction to a pair of visits to an Apple Store that, after some delays, had a favorable result. And why is Apple's complex product lineup "perfect?"

You'll also hear from Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who explains how he got an Apple TV 4K at a big discount, and why he's becoming disenchanted with the product and why he likes Google Chromecast more and more. In turn, Gene reminds listeners that his VIZIO TV has an embedded Chromecast system known as SmartCast, and why he hasn't used his Apple TV, an older model, in over two months. And what about the HomePod and the so-called scandal involving white rings being left on oiled or waxed wood surfaces by its silicone base? Should Apple have explained this limitation earlier? What about reports that the Sonos One leaves white traces from its silicone feet? Josh also explains why he's about to give up on Apple Music.

View Details

This week's guests include commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn. This week he focuses his discussion on reports that Apple has lost the services of a showrunner, Bryan Fuller, for its planned "Amazing Stories" reboot and whether that was due to taking an approach that's too restrained, too family friendly. Kirk and Gene agree about a possible way Apple will distribute these new shows. They also talk about the potential value of ad blockers, or lack thereof,, which remove the ads from a site your viewing The discussion moves to Kirk's concerns about the HomePod, not about its sound quality but whether Siri will be able to understand complicated requests to play music.

You'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Wirecutter and other publications. He discusses in detail his trip to Cape Canaveral to watch the launch of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch vehicle, the most powerful rocket ship the company has developed so far. Rob will also explain what happened when he got lost. He briefly talks about his expectations for Apple's smart speaker, the HomePod before discussing unexpected privacy issues involving an activity-tracking social network known as Strava, and the downsides of publicly revealing the location of its users, especially if that location is a secret U.S. military base. The privacy of connected cars is also discussed, particularly concerns about all that driving data a car collects, which can be used by insurance company, with a plugin receiver, to track your driving record. Gene and Rob also discuss whether car makers should make it easy for you to erase your data when you trade in the vehicle or its totaled.

View Details

This week's guests include Jarrod Suffecool, Intelligence Team Lead for Binary Defense, who takes us on a fascinating journey through the Dark Web (darknet). You'll learn about the unsavory activities that include "crime-as-a-service" — professional hacking kits and criminal services (created or offered by skilled hackers) that anyone can buy or rent online, and they're often very inexpensive. This makes it easier for less skilled criminals to pull off sophisticated attacks and scams, and we'll see a lot of this by tax fraud rings over the next two months. You'll also learn about Tor, the browser used to access Dark Web. Binary Defense Systems specializes in monitoring and infiltrating criminal marketplaces on the Dark Web to protect businesses and uncover evidence of crimes.

You'll also hear from author/publisher Joe Kissell, of Take Control Books. Joe talks about some of the problems he's encountered with macOS High Sierra, and about the decline in the quality of Apple's operating systems. What about reports that Apple is cutting back on planned features for iOS 12 to emphasize reliability? Also discussed: The apparent failure of Apple's "underpromise and overdeliver" policy by postponing features in new products that aren't ready for prime time, including the delays in expanding support for the APFS file system to Fusion drives and Time Machine. What about the complexities and reliability problems of iCloud, which is a cornerstone of Apple's services? Joe mentions that he's had to backup and restore his new Mac after owning it for less than a month, and Gene talks about the very worst Mac he ever owned, one that required constant repairs from Apple in the short time he owned it.

View Details

This week's guests include writer/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS, who delivers an update on the CPU bug and Apple's ongoing fixes to "mitigate," but not eliminate the problem. Adam briefly explains the Meltdown and Spectre bugs, as Gene briefly banters about the connection of the latter name to one of the James Bond villains. There's a brief discussion of CES, which involved the usual presentation of gadgets that most people will forget soon, or will never actually go on sale. And what about the DNS Attack, malware that was recently discovered on the Mac platform? What does it do? Also discussed: Apple's HomePod, which is now available to order, as Gene mentions how TV makers have licensed such technologies as Roku, Amazon and Google Chromecast to replace their usual clunky interfaces.

You'll also hear from outspoken columnist Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic," who talks about reports of an "iPhone addiction," in which people supposedly pay too much attention to their smartphones. Gene mentions the well-known phenomenon of lines and lines of people walking about looking down at their mobile gear. Apple's CarPlay is briefly mentioned, along with the 2018 CES in which, again, many of the announcements involved gadgets that will never see the light of day. Jonny brings up privacy in connection with Amazon's Alexa, about the world's largest online retailer's interface turning up on some TV sets. After Gene lists the connection cables he needs for his TV and his iMac, Jonny makes a strong pitch for "cable free," in which all your gear can be connected without the need for wires and endless wire clutter.

View Details

This week's guests include commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen, who discusses the CPU bug, involving malware dubbed Meltdown an Spectre, and why was Apple blamed by some for a problem that's existed with CPUs throughout the computing industry since 1997? Peter provides a full explanation of the problem and how it's triggered. There's also a discussion about the dispute over iPhone X sales, whether sales were high or disappointing. Gene and Peter also talk about the recent announcement from Apple about its five-year plan partly based on the U.S. tax cut, where Apple plans to repatriate billions of dollars of its overseas hoard and use some of it for new hires, employee stock awards, a second corporate headquarters, new data centers and, as expected, stock buybacks and dividends.

You'll also hear from tech journalist Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. Jeff discusses a possible Skype alternative known as Discord, and mentions the announcement that Microsoft has unified the Office code base that may, at some time in the future, mean feature parity of both the Mac and Windows versions. In discussing the Apple TV 4K, Jeff mentions a problem with a recent update for one of the HDR protocols, Dolby Vision. The discussion moves to the amazing performances of character actors and how they enhance a movie or TV show, which includes brief discussions of the duo's favorite shows. Jeff offers his opinion about Apple's promised investments as the result of the tax cut. There's also a brief exchange on whether or not Apple ever plans to update the Mac mini, which hasn't been changed since 2014.

View Details

This week's guests include tech journalist Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. Josh talks at length about the notorious CPU bug and how it's impacted the computing world. Gene brings up reports that older Windows PCs will evidently suffer from performance reductions, and Josh mentions cloud services, such as gaming systems, which are heavily impacted. There's a brief discussion of 4K TVs which moves into the Apple TV 4K. Has Apple's set-top streaming box realized its potential, or has it become less useful with the growth of smart TVs that offer their own streaming channels without needing outside gear? Josh mentions the TCL televisions that come with Roku technology built in. There's also a CES 2018 update and some of the most interesting new gadgets.

You'll also hear from prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who summarizes his joint tests of an iPhone X and the iPhone 8 Plus. He carried around one of them in each pocket for weeks, and tested the cameras to see which he preferred and why. Which one did he decide to keep? What about the CPU bug and its impact, and about the misleading impression created by some members of the media that it was just an Apple problem and not one that affected billions of devices? Gene and Bob also talk about Apple's iMac Pro workstation, which can cost over $13,000 when fully maxed out. Will Apple keep its promise to release a newly-designed Mac Pro that will be both modular and upgradeable? Or will the company just stick with the new iMac? Gene explains why he suspects one of Apples new display will offer 8K to better support movie editing.

View Details

We feature podcaster and commentator Kirk McElhearn. The main focus is the revelation that CPU chips from Intel, AMD and other manufacturers have serious security flaws that may have existed as far back as 1997. This week Apple announced that recent iOS and macOS updates have contained "mitigations" for the Meltdown bug, and that it plans to introduce fixes for the Spectre bug that impacts browsers. The session also covers Apple's Throttlegate scandal, and what the company should have done to better inform customers of how it was reducing performance on iPhones with deteriorating batteries. Gene and Kirk also talk about remastered and remixed classic recordings such as the Beatles "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." Kirk believes that the best version is the original mono recording from 1967.

In a special encore presentation, you’ll also hear from tech journalist Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. As the segment begins, Jeff complains that his copy of Skype 7 for the Mac was upgraded to Skype 8 without his approval, and he doesn’t like the all-new interface. In an extended discussion of net neutrality, Gene points out that more and more cable companies are embedding Netflix into their set-top boxes, perhaps as a move to help reduce cord cutting. As the pair move into pop culture mode, Gene mentions the latest reported move by Apple to add original TV content, with a direct-to-series order for a new sci-fi series from producer Ronald D. Moore, whose previous shows include Battlestar Galactica. Jeff explains in great detail why the fabled Star Wars lightsaber would be impossible to use in a real world setting. Gene suggests that the DC Comics super heroes on TV are better than their movie counterparts. And what about having different actors portray such characters as the Flash and Superman?

View Details

We feature cybersecurity expert Dr. Eric Cole, Ph.D., who served as Cybersecurity Commissioner for President Obama, the personal cybersecurity advisor for Bill Gates and his family, is a former Senior Vice President at McAfee, and was the Chief Scientist at Lockheed Martin, where he specialized in secure network design advising the Dept. of Defense, the FBI, and the Dept. of Homeland Security. A leading expert on cybersecurity, Dr. Cole will discuss consumer protection, major corporate hacks, such as the large-scale intrusion into Equifax that impacted tens of millions of people, and cybersecurity best practices. Dr. Eric Cole’s newest book is "Online Danger: How to protect yourself and your loved ones from the evil side of the internet."

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature outspoken commentator/podcaster Kirk McElhearn. Front and center is the ruckus over reports that Apple was deliberately throttling performance of older iPhones. Even though Apple admitted to the practice, claiming it was only done to allow units with deteriorating batteries to function properly, several class action lawsuits have already been filed against the company. Kirk gives you his unvarnished opinion of the practice; does Apple deserve to lose those cases? The discussion also focuses on Apple in 2017, and the costly iMac Pro all-in-one computer, which is now shipping.

You'll also hear from tech publisher/editor Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who also offers his opinion on Apple's actions over what Gene calls "Throttlegate." What about previous so-called Apple scandals, such as "Antennagate," where connectivity would sharply decline on an iPhone 4 if you held it the "wrong way," and "Bendgate," where some users reported that the iPhone 6 Plus would bend when placed in the rear pockets of their pants? Gene and Bryan also talk about the value of Apple TV. In offering a brief report on the Vizio M-Series TV he's reviewing, which comes with Google Chromecast built in, Gene wonders about the future prospects for Apple's streamer. In pop culture mode, the duo talk about Apple's reported billion dollar move into TV production, which includes a new sci-fi show produced by Ronald D. Moore, of Battlestar Galactica fame. And does Tom Cruise really do most or all of those death-defying stunts in his movies?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present tech commentator Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Consumer Reports, Wirecutter and other publications. During this episode, Rob will put the FCC's decision to abandon net neutrality into perspective. Will ISPs begin to prioritize net traffic, or will the possibility of negative publicity and potential lawsuits postpone — or prevent — any changes for the near future? Rob will also discuss the end of AIM, and how this pioneer instant messaging app influenced an entire industry? And do we really need lots of messaging apps to stay in touch with our contacts? Gene laughingly refers to Rob as a turncoat as the guest explains why he, a longtime Mac user, recently purchased a PC notebook to replace his aging MacBook Air.

You'll also hear from tech journalist Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. As the segment begins, Jeff complains that his copy of Skype 7 for the Mac was upgraded to Skype 8 without his approval, and he doesn't like the all-new interface. In an extended discussion of net neutrality, Gene points out that more and more cable companies are embedding Netflix into their set-top boxes, perhaps as a move to help reduce cord cutting. As the pair move into pop culture mode, Gene mentions the latest reported move by Apple to add original TV content, with a direct-to-series order for a new sci-fi series from producer Ronald D. Moore, whose previous shows include Battlestar Galactica. Jeff explains in great detail why the fabled Star Wars lightsaber would be impossible to use in a real world setting. Gene suggests that the DC Comics super heroes on TV are better than their movie counterparts. And what about having different actors portray such characters as the Flash and Superman?

View Details

In a special encore presentation, we feature outspoken podcaster and commentator Kirk McElhearn. After Kirk mentions seeing a performance in a Shakespearean play by Ian McKellen, the subject turns to pop culture. Kirk isn't a fan of super heroes, well except for The Shadow, an old radio and pulp novel character featured in a 1994 movie that starred Alec Baldwin as the titular character. Gene and Kirk discuss who might play the character if it was brought back. With Apple CEO Tim Cook making positive comments about the future of the Mac mini, the discussion moves the future of the cheapest Mac. The apparent backorder situation with Apple's new flagship smartphone, the iPhone X, is also discussed. Gene mentions a published report that some iPhone X preorders might have been delayed because customers put freezes on their credit reports as the result of the hack at Equifax that impacted 143 million Americans.

You'll also hear from longtime Mac peripheral maker Larry O'Connor, of Other World Computing. Larry will give you the down and dirty details about upgrading Macs with new drives and RAM, and the fact that many recent Macs cannot be upgraded. He'll also explain why he believes that Apple will eventually support more drives with APFS, especially Fusion drives, and about an app his company is developing that improves the efficiency of such drives, which combine a traditional hard drive with an SSD. A Fusion drive delivers most of the performance of a true SSD at a fraction of the cost. The discussion will also include the price of Apple upgrades, when available, and some of the products Larry's company is working on, such as a 4TB SSD, and peripherals to enhance new Macs equipped with USB-C and Thunderbolt 3. And what about the possibilities of the forthcoming iMac Pro, and the promised Mac Pro refresh?

View Details

This week's guests include J.D. Levite, senior editor of Thrifter.com. Thrifter is a consumer site focused on tracking hot deals on tech and other products, special holiday promotions, etc. This discussion focuses on finding the best deals for the holidays, including top grade 4K TVs and the key features that will maximize your enjoyment. Gene and J.D. will also discuss the top gaming consoles, media streamers, such as Apple TV and Roku, Bluetooth speakers, and even drones and gear for the connected home. You'll also hear why Gene remains skeptical about the Internet of Things.

In a special encore segment, you'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. In pop culture mode, Jeff mentions The Shadow before moving to a pair of Fox TV genre shows, "The Orville," a sci-fi series reminiscent of Star Trek with comedic elements, and "Gotham," the Batman prequel. After Jeff admits he hasn't kept up on the super hero shows on The CW, he explains how he got up early in the morning to place an order for an iPhone X at AT&T's site. Although he says he appears to have been successful in placing that order, it appeared there might be glitches in AT&T's ordering system. After a brief discussion about the iPhone X's most controversial features, such as the "notch," the conversation moves the future of the Mac mini. Just what sort of upgrade is Apple working on? Will it offer more powerful components to make it more suitable for use as a web server or a low-cost workstation? Does the delay in updating a product last refreshed in 2014 mean that Apple is working on a major redesign?

View Details

This week's guests include outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, who joins Gene in a brief discussion of the decision of Disney/Pixer chief John Lassiter, once a colleague of the Steve Jobs, to take a leave of absence over a possible sexual abuse scandal. What about rumors that an iPhone SE 2 will be assembled in India for distribution in that country? The discussion also focuses on the possibilities of Apple's Project Titan, said to be an initiative to develop technology for self-driving vehicles, in light of a published report that Apple engineers have posted a report about improvements in sensing the presence of cyclists and pedestrians? What's Apple's end game?

You'll also hear from commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, who also offers his opinions about Apple's ongoing work on self-driving. Will this technology be offered as a platform to auto makers? Kirk also wonders if the improvements in iPhone X availability might reflect possible weaker demand as much as improved production. With reports that Apple has postponed the arrival of its HomePod voice controlled speaker system, Kirk suggests it's overpriced, and that he can probably buy Bluetooth speakers with better sound for less money, since he's less impressed with having Siri on such a device. He also joins Gene in discussions as to whether Apple ought to consider building a notebook computer using iOS instead of macOS.

View Details

This week's guests include tech journalist Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. Josh talks at length about his iPhone X, and perhaps its most controversial feature, the notch. He explains how easy it was for him to adapt to a smartphone that doesn't have the traditional Home button. As the owner of a new Nintendo Switch portable gaming console, Josh explains how he, his wife, and his son have been using the new gadget. Gene delivers an update on whether or not he's changed his mind about not buying an Apple Watch, and the discussion moves to the case of the missing spare tire, as most cars come with either a limited use donut spare tire, a canister with which to repair a flat, or a "run-flat" tire that is costly to replace.

You'll also hear from columnist Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. As the interview continues, Bryan will explain how he's waiting for the arrival of an iPhone X that may arrive during the session. Did it show up, or was there a false alarm? He also discusses his decision to buy an Apple TV 4K even though he doesn't have a 4K TV. There's also a brief discussion about an article from Bryan's colleague, John Martellaro, about why Apple needs a "smarter way" to manage macOS upgrades. He suggests several system checks, including whether apps are compatible with the new OS and making sure the user has backups. Gene expresses his skepticism about comments made by Sir Jonathan Ive, about Apple's innovation process, in a Time magazine interview in connection with the iPhone X being listed as one of the top 25 inventions of 2017.

View Details

This week's guests include outspoken commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn. The main focus is on taxes, and whether Apple is unfairly reducing its corporate tax burden by strategic parking of its huge offshore money hoard. Apple has selected the small island of Jersey, which has ties to the UK. In a series of statements, the company claims that it pays billions of dollars in taxes every year, and that it is complying with the law regardless of the skepticism about such practices, but Kirk is skeptical of the practice. The discussion shifts from taxes to electric cars, as Kirk explains that he owns a Toyota Yaris hybrid. Among the models mentioned is the somewhat pricy BMW i3, and the new compact-sized Tesla, the Model 3, which is still confronting problems in ramping up production.

You'll also hear from prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who talks about the ongoing fear-mongering but some members of the media about the iPhone X and its Face ID and other features. Bob explains that, despite the advertised backorder situation, he was able to buy one from his mobile carrier and receive it on the day it was released. But will he keep it? He appears to be skeptical of its perceived advantages, but will make a decision while he still has time to return it for a refund. He is also holding off publishing a review while he considers its value. Bob also discusses the use of iPads in major league baseball, and how it may have helped the Houston Astros win the World Series. He also says that you shouldn't be in a rush to install a new OS on your Mac, iPhone or iPad, and maybe wait a short while to make sure there aren't any serious bugs that'll cause you trouble.

View Details

This week's guests include outspoken columnist Jeff Butts, of The Mac Observer. During his first visit to the show, he'll explain how he first switched to the macOS when his PC failed, by converting it to a "Hackintosh," a computer hacked to run Apple's OS. He'll also explain how he modified a PC to run macOS High Sierra. Jeff will also discuss the iPhone X, which remained seriously backordered during its first weekend on sale; will he buy one? Gene and Jeff will also examine the misleading statistics from Gartner and IDC that indicated disappointing Mac sales during the September 2017 quarter. In fact, Apple revealed that sales grew by 10%, way ahead of the industry, with revenue increasing by 25%, making for a record quarter. There will also be a brief pop culture discussion, in which Gene mentions that movie and TV composer Danny Elfman has become the composer for "Justice League," and that he'll include portions of his original 1989 Batman theme in the score.

In a special encore appearance, you'll also hear from writer/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS, who covers the new Apple Watch Series 3, which includes an LTE radio that can make phone calls. He reflects on how the product has become more of a health and fitness accessory as Apple has continued to develop the product. Gene and Adam also talk about the iPhone X, the notch and its impact, plus Apple's last minute change to the High Sierra OS that no longer supports Macs with Fusion drives. You'll also hear an extended discussion about the Apple TV, its new features, and about the growing fragmentation of TV streaming services. This is creating a situation where you may have to join a number of these services to watch their exclusive shows. How does this impact cable cord cutting? Does it end up costing more than cable and satellite what with all the separate services?

View Details

This week's guests include outspoken podcaster and commentator Kirk McElhearn. After Kirk mentions seeing a performance in a Shakespearean play by Ian McKellen, the subject turns to pop culture. Kirk isn't a fan of super heroes, well except for The Shadow, an old radio and pulp novel character featured in a 1994 movie that starred Alec Baldwin as the titular character. Gene and Kirk discuss who might play the character if it was brought back. With Apple CEO Tim Cook making positive comments about the future of the Mac mini, the discussion moves the future of the cheapest Mac. The apparent backorder situation with Apple's new flagship smartphone, the iPhone X, is also discussed. Gene mentions a published report that some iPhone X preorders might have been delayed because customers put freezes on their credit reports as the result of the hack at Equifax that impacted 143 million Americans.

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. In pop culture mode, Jeff mentions The Shadow before moving to a pair of Fox TV genre shows, "The Orville," a sci-fi series reminiscent of Star Trek with comedic elements, and "Gotham," the Batman prequel. After Jeff admits he hasn't kept up on the super hero shows on The CW, he explains how he got up early in the morning to place an order for an iPhone X at AT&T's site. Although he says he appears to have been successful in placing that order, it appeared there might be glitches in AT&T's ordering system. After a brief discussion about the iPhone X's most controversial features, such as the "notch," the conversation moves the future of the Mac mini. Just what sort of upgrade is Apple working on? Will it offer more powerful components to make it more suitable for use as a web server or a low-cost workstation? Does the delay in updating a product last refreshed in 2014 mean that Apple is working on a major redesign?

View Details

This week's guests include outspoken podcaster and commentator Peter Cohen. This week, Peter and Gene talk about the fate of Apple's cheapest personal computer, the Mac mini, the downgraded 2014 version, and what sort of upgrade might be in the pipeline in light of positive comments from Apple CEO Tim Cook. Peter explains why he feels that Apple has taken the wrong direction with the mini. Gene and Peter talk about low-end printers, and about using third-party toner. A good idea? What about the Apple TV 4K? Overpriced, not compelling enough to boost sales? The segment moves into pop culture, where Gene and Peter discuss Star Trek fandom, TV super heroes and similar subjects, as Gene recalls meeting some of the stars of the original Star Trek series at a convention in 1975.

In a special encore presentation, you’ll also hear from columnist Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. He explains why he recently switched from T-Mobile to Verizon Wireless, mostly to improve coverage, but is now considering a return to the former. The discussion covers the ongoing dilemma of choosing the right carrier. And what about published reports that T-Mobile and Sprint, the two smallest carriers in the U.S., might be ready to ink a deal and merge? It’s not the first time this has been rumored. Gene and Joe will also talk about the new productivity features in iOS 11, and whether they might impact the use of the iPad as a productivity tool. There will also be a brief discussion of macOS High Sierra before the conversation moves to the Apple Watch Series 3, which comes in a version with LTE so you can use it to make phone calls without connecting it to an iPhone. Does this big step now liberate the Apple Watch so it can do most things all by itself? Does the future take us away from a big smartphone to a tiny smartwatch?

View Details

This episode focuses heavily on Apple TV 4K and Apple's reported efforts to provide original TV content. Tech journalist Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, will explain why he is not buying the newest Apple TV. There is an extensive discussion of the state of cord-cutting, and the report that Apple has inked a deal to reboot Steve Spielberg's anthology series from the 1980s, "Amazing Stories." Just how does Apple plan to offer this 10-episode show, via Apple Music, separate downloads, a new streaming service? Does the world need another source of streaming TV? There will also be a discussion about Movies Anywhere, a free service that integrates movies and TV shows from several major studios.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. In this episode, Brian will also talk about the Apple TV 4K and whether it can have any impact in the set-top box market, currently led by Roku. In discussing iOS 11, released in late September, Bryan explains how the new Control Center delivers misleading messages to users. So the act of turning off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi doesn't actually turn those services off. Gene explains one of the actual reasons for the slower iOS 11 adoption rate, and he also talks about his offbeat methods for handling unsolicited phone calls, and about a visit by a UPS days after they left a Vizio TV set, sent by the company's PR department for review, on the open patio of Gene's Arizona apartment. Was that the responsible thing to do?

View Details

We present outspoken columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. This week, Gene and John have an extensive discussion about the Apple TV 4K, and 4K TV. Did you know, for example, that not all 4K movies are really 4K? They are actually upscaled HD movies, and is that why Apple got the movie studios to agree to offer them at the same price as 1080P John explains why Apple TV will remain a "hobby" and its future prospects as a streaming set-top box that costs more than the competition. But what if it provides a safer experience to customers who are willing to pay the price? You'll also hear about Tim Cook, and whether or not he's a product visionary, and whether he needs to be for today's Apple. And what about all those glitches reported with Apple's new file system, APFS?

You'll also hear from commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, who will also discuss the Apple TV 4K, and why he returned the one he ordered — without ever nothing to open the box. He'll also talk about the fact that not of Apple's 4K movies are 4K, and about the downsides of cable cord cutting, such as having to pay for lots of separate services if you want to watch a wide range of TV programming. Gene explains what happened to a 4K TV that Vizio sent him to review, and where the delivery person placed it because nobody answered the door at Gene's home. Even though Kirk prefers the iPhone SE for its size and convenience, he explains why he purchased an iPhone 8 Plus, and why he was not going to wait for the arrival of the flagship and costly iPhone X. There will also be a discussion about ongoing problems with APFS and macOS High Sierra.

View Details

We present columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Consumer Reports, Wirecutter and other publications. During this segment, Rob will discuss his recent experience driving a Cadillac CT-6 equipped with a cruise control option that allowed him to travel to Cleveland, and not have to touch the steering wheel during a long stretch on an Interstate highway. Is this a major step towards autonomous driving? Gene and Rob will also discuss reports of problems with the initial releases of macOS High Sierra, and iOS 11. And what about cable/satellite cord cutting? How do you cope with more and more services that charge separate fees, and how will that impact your ISP's bandwidth cap? Gene mentions that he plans to review a new 4K set supplied by Vizio.

In a special encore presentation, you'll also hear from columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, who will join Gene in a pop culture discussion, focusing on recent movies. What about a recent newspaper report about famous singers, most recently Adelle, who are losing their voices and have to undergo delicate microsurgery to resume their careers? Are they following the wrong singing techniques? There will also be a lengthy discussion about the potential for Apple TV, and whether cord cutting makes sense. Is it possible to get all the TV shows you want with such streaming services as Netflix, or is there the danger of getting so many services and apps that you end up spending more than with a traditional cable and satellite TV package with hundreds of channels?

View Details

We present outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, who, in response to Gene's search for a better deal with a wireless carrier, talks about T-Mobile, its advantages and limitations. He mentions the Band 71 issue, the new 600 MHz spectrum that T-Mobile is rolling out to some parts of he U.S., and the fact that flagship gear from Apple, Samsung and other companies are not yet compatible. The discussion moves to the new Apple TV, the issue of cable/satellite cord cutting, and the dangers of fragmentation, where there are so many services vying for your subscriptions that it may become must too expensive to watch all the new shows that require separate memberships. What about the new iPhones, and especially the iPhone X with Face ID for logging in rather than Touch ID? What about macOS High Sierra, which is officially released on September 25th. Does the lack of support, at least for now, for all those Macs with hybrid Fusion drives cause any problems?

You'll also hear from columnist Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. He explains why he recently switched from T-Mobile to Verizon Wireless, mostly to improve coverage, but is now considering a return to the former. The discussion covers the ongoing dilemma of choosing the right carrier. And what about published reports that T-Mobile and Sprint, the two smallest carriers in the U.S., might be ready to ink a deal and merge? It's not the first time this has been rumored. Gene and Joe will also talk about the new productivity features in iOS 11, and whether they might impact the use of the iPad as a productivity tool. There will also be a brief discussion of macOS High Sierra before the conversation moves to the Apple Watch Series 3, which comes in a version with LTE so you can use it to make phone calls without connecting it to an iPhone. Does this big step now liberate the Apple Watch so it can do most things all by itself? Does the future take us away from a big smartphone to a tiny smartwatch?

View Details

We present outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, who talks at length about Apple's controversial changes in iTunes 12.7, in which they removed access to the App Store. This means that iPhone and iPad users will have to download and organize their apps on their mobile gear rather than Macs and PCs. With the release of a developer and public beta seed of the Golden Master of macOS High Sierra, Gene and Kirk discuss Apple's decision to remove the ability to convert Macs with Fusion drives — which consist of a regular hard drive and a small solid state drive — to the new Apple File System. They also talk about Apple's iPhone announcements, which include the iPhone X. And what about the controversial "notch" at the top of the unit? What about the new Apple TV with 4K and HDR?

You'll also hear from writer/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS, who covers the new Apple Watch Series 3, which includes an LTE radio that can make phone calls. He reflects on how the product has become more of a health and fitness accessory as Apple has continued to develop the product. Gene and Adam also talk about the iPhone X, the notch and its impact, plus Apple's last minute change to the High Sierra OS that no longer supports Macs with Fusion drives. You'll also hear an extended discussion about the Apple TV, its new features, and about the growing fragmentation of TV streaming services. This is creating a situation where you may have to join a number of these services to watch their exclusive shows. How does this impact cable cord cutting? Does it end up costing more than cable and satellite what with all the separate services?

View Details

We present author/publisher Joe Kissell, of Take Control Books. This segment focuses heavily on all the new books Joe and his authors have written about macOS High Sierra and iOS 11. You'll learn about the new Apple File System (APFS) and why the drives on some Macs aren't being converted by the High Sierra installer. Joe will also talk about some of the other features of macOS 10.13, which include an enhanced version of Photos with a decent selection of photo editing tools. iOS 11's key improvements will also be covered, and you'll learn about one of Joe's favorite features in Safari, which stops those awful autoplay videos that appear on many sites. There's also a brief discussion about the recent hack at one of the American credit bureaus, Equifax, which impacted over 143 million people.

View Details

We present writer/commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, As the segment begins, Josh reveals that he's give-up smoking, as the discussion moves to Apple TV and possible missed opportunities for Apple. What about Apple's alleged attempts to persuade the movie studios to charge the same for 4K and regular HD movies? And what about reports that the movie companies want to offer movies 17 days after release for home rentals at $50, with a $30 price tag after four to six weeks. Does it even make sense? There will also be a brief discussion on what might be announced during Apple's September 12, 2017 media event, where new iPhones are expected along with a new Apple TV with 4K and HDR, and the Apple Watch Series 3. Josh will briefly list the new features in iOS 11.

In the second segment, Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, covers the forthcoming Apple event, as Bryan cites a published report suggesting that all of the new Apple smartphones will carry an iPhone 8 moniker, even the regular models previously expected to be known as the iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus. And what about Apple's plans for professional Macs, starting with the promised December release of an iMac Pro that starts at $4,999? Gene will speculate that the top-line model, with an 18-core Intel Xeon processor, could max out at over $15,000. What about the Mac Pro, expected next year? Will the top-line version, possibly with an Intel 28-core processor, exceed $20,000? What is the potential audience for such a device? Bryan will also provide Apple TV and Apple Watch predictions.

View Details

In a special encore episode, we present outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen. As part of an extensive agenda, Gene and Peter talk about self-driving technology, and what Apple might be planning. Gene will explain how air bags and seat belts helped save his life during a serious auto accident. What about the claims from Greenpeace, the environmental organization, about whether Apple is engaged in planned obsolescence by making its products difficult or impossible to upgrade? What about a survey that some 25% of Windows users in the U.S., who plan to buy new computers in the next six months, are going to choose Macs?

You’ll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. The discussion starts with a brief pop culture segment, as Gene mentions that Joel Hynek, the son of the late Dr. J. Allen Hynek, the well-known astronomer with a fascination for UFOs, is an Oscar-winning special effects artist. On the tech front, the discussion moves to whether self-driving technology will spread to car-sharing. Instead of buying a car, you will share autonomous vehicles with other drivers. Just will it impact the car-buying experience? Jeff will also talk about the Greenpeace report, and the flaws in the smartphone and notebook test methods employed by Consumer Reports magazine. Can you really get 20 hours battery life from a MacBook Pro with Touch Bar?

View Details

We present prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who joins Gene to talk about a variety of Apple-related topics that include sage advice on dealing with the public betas of iOS 11 and macOS High Sierra. Just what are the compelling new features, and what should you do before you install them? You'll also hear talk about Google's overwhelming dominance of the search engine market, and whether it's possible they will ever be overturned. What about the speculation about a 10th anniversary iPhone, dubbed iPhone 8 in the rumors, which may list for more than $1,000? Bob explains why he hasn't bought any new Macs lately. He also presents a special $50 discount offer designed exclusively for listeners of The Tech Night Owl LIVE.

In a special encore segment, you’ll also hear from Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles, who does this interview on his new 10.5-inch iPad Pro, using the mic from Apple’s AirPods wireless earphones. There’s a long discussion about the value of the iPad as a productivity tool, as Josh explains why the apps he requires for his job are not all available on Apple’s tablet. So he has to use his Mac instead, and Gene explains the problems he has in using an iPad for his work. Microsoft’s move into PC hardware, the Surface, is also discussed. The interview wraps with a long discussion about the future of Apple TV, and the tepid updates being offered in the next version of the tvOS operating system. Will the next Apple TV support 4K and HDR, the latest technologies used on TV sets? Should Apple build its own TV set, or did the ship sail years ago? Gene and Josh also talk about the possibilities of Apple’s set-top box and whether such gadgets are needed in light of the fact that new TV sets already offer popular streaming services, such as Amazon Instant Video and Netflix.

View Details

We present outspoken columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. The discussion begins with the potentially costly gear Apple is expected to introduce for the fall of 2017. You'll hear the latest rumors about the iPhone 8 — 10th anniversary model — and other gear, and just how well is Apple really doing in education? Is the new iPad enough, or does Apple have to find better ways to deliver an affordable notebook computer to classrooms? The discussion moves to expectations for the next Apple TV, which may include 4K and HDR support, plus other features. Is this a product whose time might have come and gone, or is does it still have potential against the competition? Gene and John will also speculate about reports that the next Apple Watch may include LTE support, which could allow them to make and receive phone calls, shades of Dick Tracy.

You'll also hear from columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, who will join Gene in a pop culture discussion, focusing on recent movies. What about a recent newspaper report about famous singers, most recently Adelle, who are losing their voices and have to undergo delicate microsurgery to resume their careers? Are they following the wrong singing techniques? There will also be a lengthy discussion about the potential for Apple TV, and whether cord cutting makes sense. Is it possible to get all the TV shows you want with such streaming services as Netflix, or is there the danger of getting so many services and apps that you end up spending more than with a traditional cable and satellite TV package with hundreds of channels?

View Details

We present long-time tech journalist and editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS. The discussion begins with the recent decision by Apple to discontinue two of the three iPods still being sold, and moves on to Adobe's announcement that its Flash multimedia platform will be discontinued as of 2020. Gene and Adam will also talk about Adobe's failed efforts to create a version of Flash that can run on mobile platforms, such as Android and iOS. With the news that Apple sold one million iPads to the educational market in the June quarter, the discussion moves to the ongoing potential to boost market share against such competitors as Chromebook notebooks, which use the Google Chrome OS. Gene speculates on a mythical iPad Hybrid, which he suggests could combine an iPad with a notebook-style case that includes a keyboard and trackpad. Possible, or just a silly idea?

In a special encore appearance, you'll also hear from tech journalist Derek Kessler, editor of TeslaCentral.com, as well as managing editor of Mobile Nations. Derek will tell you all about Elon Musk's Tesla, a line of electric cars that are having a major impact on the auto industry. Derek owns a Tesla Model S, and he'll tell you about the advantages, and disadvantages of driving an all-electric vehicle. What about the impact of cold weather on the batteries, which can sharply reduce battery life? What about "range anxiety" and finding nearby charging stations before your car runs out of juice? You'll also hear about the forthcoming Model 3 mid-sized car, Tesla's first "affordable" vehicle, which will carry a starting price of $35,000. Can Tesla meet its very optimistic production targets to build enough vehicles to fill hundreds of thousands of advance orders?

View Details

Outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen talks with Gene about Apple's sudden decision to discontinue the iPod Nano and the iPod Shuffle, leaving the iPod touch as the only model left in a product lineup that debuted in 2001 and changed Apple's direction. There's a lengthy discussion about the announced decision of Foxconn — who builds iPhones and other Apple gadgets in China — to open up an LCD plant in Wisconsin. After previous failed promises, will this factory really come to be? The discussion moves to the endless speculation about an iPhone 8, as Peter explains that he's still happy with his iPhone 6. And what about the future of the Apple TV? Does it have unrealized potential?

In a special encore appearance, you'll also hear from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. Tim will offer a comprehensive look at the recent WannaCry ransomware attack that targeted hundreds of thousands of institutions and businesses around the world using Windows XP. This attack targeted a Windows flaw that has been patched by Microsoft. You'll also learn more about the ongoing prospects of bitcoin, the controversial digital currency that is still regarded as a viable alternative payment method by some. The ransomware attack required bitcoin payments to free up compromised PCs.

View Details

Commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, considers the Apple rumor front, where speculation continues about a rumored iPhone 8 and the alleged problems Apple might be having in finalizing the design for production. But are such reports made by or influenced by bloggers who have been inspired by Apple's competitors? What about the tepid updates for Apple TV? Has time passed Apple's set-top box by, or is it possible for the product to be improved enough to realize its potential against the competition?

You'll also hear from tech columnist Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. This time Gene and Joe talk about Microsoft's sales in the most recent financial quarter, and how it is succeeding beyond expectations at cloud services and Office 365. But is there any significance in the fact that sales of Surface PCs remain relatively flat? You'll also hear Joe's observations about the iPhone 8 and whether its potential might overshadow the expected refreshes of Apple's mainstream models, which will probably be named iPhone 7s and iPhone 7s Plus. With Comic-Con San Diego in force, Gene and Joe have a pop culture discussion, where they talk about super heroes, including Batman and Superman, and having the same characters played by different actors in the TV and movie versions. And what about a rumor that Ben Affleck may be encouraged by Warner Brothers to give up Batman's cape?

View Details

Columnist and blogger Kirk McElhearn talks with Gene about the future of technology books. Are printed computer books dead? What about sharply targeted eBooks that focus on the topics tech savvy people are interested in. What about magazines devoted to Apple? Is Apple now too mainstream to require separate publications? The discussion also covers the end of the platform wars, and the hazards of running beta software on your computer.

You'll also hear from Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who does this interview on his new 10.5-inch iPad Pro, using the mic from Apple's AirPods wireless earphones. There's a long discussion about the value of the iPad as a productivity tool, as Josh explains why the apps he requires for his job are not all available on Apple's tablet. So he has to use his Mac instead, and Gene explains the problems he has in using an iPad for his work. Microsoft's move into PC hardware, the Surface, is also discussed. The interview wraps with a long discussion about the future of Apple TV, and the tepid updates being offered in the next version of the tvOS operating system. Will the next Apple TV support 4K and HDR, the latest technologies used on TV sets? Should Apple build its own TV set, or did the ship sail years ago? Gene and Josh also talk about the possibilities of Apple's set-top box and whether such gadgets are needed in light of the fact that new TV sets already offer popular streaming services, such as Amazon Instant Video and Netflix.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, ransomware is back in the news as the "Petya" ransomware attack affected 12,000 computers in 65 countries including the U.S. This time an infected software update seems to be to blame for the breach. So if you cannot even trust a software update any more, how are you supposed to keep your documents and computer safe from hackers? You'll hear the answers from security expert Shaun Murphy, founder of sndr.com, about what to do to help prevent yourself from becoming a victim of a ransomware attack. Shaun will offer lots of information covering the world of cybersecurity.

You'll also hear from tech journalist Derek Kessler, editor of TeslaCentral.com, as well as managing editor of Mobile Nations. Derek will tell you all about Elon Musk's Tesla, a line of electric cars that are having a major impact on the auto industry. Derek owns a Tesla Model S, and he'll tell you about the advantages, and disadvantages of driving an all-electric vehicle. What about the impact of cold weather on the batteries, which can sharply reduce battery life? What about "range anxiety" and finding nearby charging stations before your car runs out of juice? You'll also hear about the forthcoming Model 3 mid-sized car, Tesla's first "affordable" vehicle, which will carry a starting price of $35,000. Can Tesla meet its very optimistic production targets to build enough vehicles to fill hundreds of thousands of advance orders?

View Details

We present outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen. As part of an extensive agenda, Gene and Peter talk about self-driving technology, and what Apple might be planning. Gene will explain how air bags and seat belts helped save his life during a serious auto accident. What about the claims from Greenpeace, the environmental organization, about whether Apple is engaged in planned obsolescence by making its products difficult or impossible to upgrade? What about a survey that some 25% of Windows users in the U.S., who plan to buy new computers in the next six months, are going to choose Macs?

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. The discussion starts with a brief pop culture segment, as Gene mentions that Joel Hynek, the son of the late Dr. J. Allen Hynek, the well-known astronomer with a fascination for UFOs, is an Oscar-winning special effects artist. On the tech front, the discussion moves to whether self-driving technology will spread to car-sharing. Instead of buying a car, you will share autonomous vehicles with other drivers. Just will it impact the car-buying experience? Jeff will also talk about the Greenpeace report, and the flaws in the smartphone and notebook test methods employed by Consumer Reports magazine. Can you really get 20 hours battery life from a MacBook Pro with Touch Bar?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present outspoken commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." During this episode, Gene will recount his frightening experience, when his car was totaled as a result of being struck at high speed by a truck. The discussion continues with Kirk's progress report on his home-built faux Mac clone, which is usually referred to as a Hackintosh. Was it all worth it, or is it better to buy a real Apple Macintosh and not put up with things that just won't work without lots of baby-sitting? You'll also hear Kirk's skeptical comments about whether he's interested in buying a new Mac, and about Apple's forthcoming speaker/digital assistant known as HomePod, which will ship later in 2017.

You'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, Consumer Reports, Wirecutter and other publications. During this segment, Rob will recount his problems with a broken Google Nexus 5x, which succumbed to a known hardware defect, and why he bought a Pixel phone as its replacement, since he favors Android over iOS. Gene recounts his concern with the recent review of Samsung's Galaxy S8 at Consumer Reports; Rob doesn't do reviews there. He'll also talk about his next computer, a 21.5-inch iMac with 4K Retina display. You'll also hear a brief report on China's version of the CES. The discussion will move to the productivity possibilities for an iPad, or the lack thereof, Apple's forthcoming move to overhaul the Mac Pro, and the prospects for the iMac Pro, due to arrive in December of 2017 at a starting price of $4,999.

View Details

We present long-time tech journalist and editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS. During this segment, Gene and Adam will have an extensive discussion about Apple's forthcoming professional Macs, the iMac Pro and the new Mac Pro. Is the iMac Pro, which will start at $4,999 when it debuts in December, overpriced compared to the competition? Will a decked out version cost as much as a compact car? You'll be surprised at the response. There will also be a discussion about whether Macs are good for hosting web sites, and about cloud solutions for hosting. During this segment, Gene will talk about his brief experience using a Mac mini to host all his sites.

You'll also hear from prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will talk about a variety of issues related to Apple, such as the Apple Watch and why he wouldn't mind a slightly thicker iPhone if it came with a battery that lasted longer. The discussion will also cover the newest Macs, whether Bob plans to buy one of those upgraded models, and what about the future of Apple's digital assistant, Siri? Bob will also talk about the print version of his latest book, "Working Smarter for Mac Users," and how it can help you become more productive in getting work done on your computer. Bob had to overcome an ADHD condition in order to become a working writer.

View Details

We focus on one of the most important keynotes from Apple Inc. in recent years, at their 2017 Worldwide Developer's Conference (WWDC). During this event, new operating systems for the iPhone, the iPad, the Mac, the Apple TV and the Apple Watch were demonstrated. You'll hear about some of the important new features, such as how iOS 11 will make the iPad work more like a Mac in handling productivity apps.

By far the most attention was focused on a slew of new hardware announcements. After a slowdown in Mac updates in 2016, Apple introduced updates for the MacBook Air, MacBook, and MacBook Pro notebooks. There were also updates for the iMac. Keeping the promise of an iMac with pro features was a demonstration of the forthcoming iMac Pro, a 27-inch all-in-one powerhouse sporting the guts of a computer workstation. You'll also hear about Apple's answer to the Amazon Echo, the HomePod, a $349 loudspeaker that is directed by Apple's digital assistant, Siri.

Our guests include outspoken commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and author/editor Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature outspoken columnist/podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." This week Gene and Kirk talk briefly about the iTunes movie bundle sales, where you can buy 10 movies for $2 each, or individual movies for $5. Do those bundles provide top quality movies, or just a mixture of the good and the not-so-good? You'll also hear fearless predictions about what Apple may announce at the WWDC developer's conference. Will there be new Mac notebooks, a Siri speaker? What about a surprise product that nobody anticipated? Kirk also wonders why the pre-event chatter about what might be coming has been so light.

A contrary opinion comes from tech journalist Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan feels a number of rumors have been published about Apple's plans ahead of the event, more than usual. Gene and Bryan cover the basics, such as the new operating systems, possible new notebook computers, a Siri speaker system. Is such a gadget even needed? What about the fact that the presumed main rival the Amazon Echo, hasn't sold in large numbers? Or does such a product represent a focal point for Apple's HomeKit, which allows for home automation? Gene offers an update to his ongoing customer support issues with AT&T that required, so far, talking to no less than 25 people without any positive results.

View Details

We feature outspoken commentator/podcaster Peter Cohen. During this segment, Gene will discuss his efforts to get decent support from AT&T wireless, which involved multiple phone calls, and frustrating encounters with more than 20 different reps. Did he finally succeed? Gene and Peter will also discuss the prospects for new Mac notebooks at Apple's 2017 WWDC developer event in June. And what about Apple's decision to deliver subpar gaming performance on the Mac? As a former Macworld gaming columnist, Peter explains what is going on, and what he believes to be Apple's reasons for not paying attention to the needs of avid gamers.

You'll also hear from independent tech journalist Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. This wide-ranging discussion will include Joe's observations about the quality of the four major wireless carriers in the U.S., as he explains the surprising result of his efforts to switch from one company to another to get better download speeds. Were there any notable announcements at the 2017 Google I/O conference in Mountain View, CA? Was it all about photos? What about the voice assistant platforms from Amazon, Apple and Google? Should Apple respond to the Amazon Echo with its own version? Gene and Joe will also talk about the prospects for new Mac notebooks at the WWDC, and is there a possibility that Apple will pull the plug on one of its three notebook models?

View Details

We feature commentator/podcaster Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. Gene and Jeff do a pop culture segment, anticipating the movie version of "Wonder Woman," the introduction of General Zod on the "Supergirl" TV show, and other movie and TV-related topics. The tech segment will cover expectations for Mac notebook upgrades at the 2017 WWDC in June, whether actor Jeff Goldblum might have become the voice of Siri, the Microsoft Surface Laptop, and whether you can trust the cloud.

You'll also hear from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. Tim will offer a comprehensive look at the recent WannaCry ransomware attack that targeted hundreds of thousands of institutions and businesses around the world using Windows XP. This attack targeted a Windows flaw that has been patched by Microsoft. You'll also learn more about the ongoing prospects of bitcoin, the controversial digital currency that is still regarded as a viable alternative payment method by some. The ransomware attack required bitcoin payments to free up compromised PCs.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature tech columnist Rob Griffiths. Rob will introduce you to the fascinating world of the "Hackintosh," the process of installing macOS on a generic home-built PC. He made the decision to build one because Apple isn't selling the Mac of his dreams, which in this case means a personal computer capable of stellar gaming performance. He goes through the process of selecting the parts he needed for the project, assembling them, and consulting a number of online resources on how to "induce" macOS to install on these computers, along with the lengthy process of troubleshooting glitches and somehow making things run reliably. Rob will also discuss the types of computers he hopes Apple will build in the coming months now that the company has made a renewed commitment to the Mac platform.

You'll also hear from outspoken columnist/podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." In his quest to replace his aging Mac mini, Kirk also opted to build a Hackintosh, and he explains the reasons for his choices, and the assembly process. You'll also hear about the Apple Watch and how it works as the hub of the company's fitness platform. What about reliably measuring your heartbeat to make sure everything is OK? How can it expand to better monitor your physical condition?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature author/editor Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. After discussing the 27th anniversary of TidBITS, Gene and Josh talk about the controversial moves from ride-sharing giant Uber and the prospects for its main rival, Lyft. Gene provides personal experiences with both, but will Uber's plans to add self-driving vehicles someday put their human drivers out of work? What about Apple's promised commitment to professional users, with assurances that a new Mac Pro is being developed, and that they will continue to improve Final Cut Pro X and Logic Pro X?

In an encore presentation, you'll take a romp through the world of social networks with Cella Lao Rousseau, a reporter with iMore. During this segment, Cella will talk about the Snapchat IPO, its impact, and how the network plans to leverage its large user base to earn money. The discussion moves to profiles of the most popular social networks and how they meet the needs of their members. Snapchat's unique slant is to allow you to send photos and videos that self-destruct shortly after they are viewed. The discussion includes Facebook, which Gene says has become too bloated for him except for the Messenger app, which he uses regularly because most of his contacts are on the service. Has Twitter outlived its usefulness despite becoming the medium of choice for high-profile people, such as the President of the United States, to make announcements? What about WhatsApp, Instagram, Mashable and Reddit? What happened to one of the original social networks, MySpace?On this week's all-star episode, we feature author/editor Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. After discussing the 27th anniversary of TidBITS, Gene and Josh talk about the controversial moves from ride-sharing giant Uber and the prospects for its main rival, Lyft. Gene provides personal experiences with both, but will Uber's plans to add self-driving vehicles someday put their human drivers out of work? What about Apple's promised commitment to professional users, with assurances that a new Mac Pro is being developed, and that they will continue to improve Final Cut Pro X and Logic Pro X?

View Details

We feature prolific author Joe Kissell, who will discuss the third edition of "Take Control of Your Online Privacy." You'll hear hints and tips on ongoing threats, including the fallout from the decision by the U.S. Congress, signed by the President, to allow ISPs to sell your online history to third-party providers. Are there ways to protect yourself against this and other invasions of your privacy? Joe will also discuss another of his books, "Are Your Bits Flipped? Overcoming Tech Misconceptions." He'll talk about a few common day-to-day mistakes some people make.

You'll also hear a wide-ranging interview with prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will discuss Apple's commitment to take heed of the needs of professional Mac users and build a new Mac Pro, offer an iMac with professional options, and perhaps a souped up Mac mini. In discussing the potential of self-driving vehicles, Bob mentions the safe driving features now available in many new cars, such as his Subaru Legacy. Bob will also talk about the steps he took to overcome his ADHD condition, and how he developed the advice he offers in his first self-published book, "Working Smarter for Mac Users," which will also soon be available in a Windows version. Gene and Bob will also briefly discuss old-time radio.

View Details

We feature outspoken commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Once again, Kirk expresses his ongoing concerns about Apple's lateness in admitting that the 2013 Mac Pro was a flawed design, and that they are working on something new, which will not be released this year. Kirk also explains why he's dissatisfied with current Mac designs, and is planning on building a customized macOS computer, a "Hackintosh," with off-the-shelf PC parts.

You'll also hear from tech journalist Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. This week Bryan is in "cranky" mode and will explain why he's upset with Apple's lateness in announcing plans to update Macs. He'll discuss the form the promised "modular" Mac Pro might take, and about possible pro options for the iMac. In talking about the Samsung Galaxy S8 smartphone, Gene outlines the known flaws in the design of its fingerprint sensor, facial recognition and iris recognition features, and the decision not to launch the "Bixby" digital assistant -- designed by some of the people who brought you Siri -- when the S8 goes on sale. Samsung's well-known problems will also be outlined. There will also be a brief discussion as to whether Apple should buy Disney, a move recommended by a global investment banker.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature outspoken commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who joins Gene in a fascinating discussion about Apple's promise of major updates for the Mac Pro and the iMac. And were there really seven reasons for Apple to discontinue the Mac Pro before they decided to move forward? What about the fate of the smallest iPad, the iPad mini, and have sales of that model been mostly cannibalized by such models as the iPhone 7 Plus? John also explains why you will be told what to think about Apple, and he will list the "very cool things" he loves about his Apple Watch.

You'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for Yahoo Tech, USA Today and Wirecutter. He'll discuss expectations about the next Mac Pro, the next iMac and maybe even a forthcoming Mac mini refresh. And why is Rob thinking about replacing his aging MacBook Air with a Windows notebook? The discussion moves to Comcast's new wireless phone service and why it will only be available to people who use the company's broadband Internet. What about the lack of competition among Internet services in the U.S.? What about the fate of online privacy in light of a recent law passed by Congress? Is net neutrality next on the chopping block?

View Details

We feature the inimitable Peter Cohen, long-time blogger and podcaster. Peter will discuss the latest developments on the security front and how reports of hacked iCloud accounts might impact Apple. You'll also hear about a consumer's "right to repair," the subject of pending legislation in Nebraska, which would force such companies as Apple to sell parts and repair manuals to anyone who wants to buy them. Peter will also explain the ins and outs of the Apple File System (APFS), recently introduced in the iOS 10.3 update, and expected to arrive this fall as standard issue on the next macOS. If you're wondering what this is all about, Peter will explain how Apple customers will benefit from a more reliable storage system and improved security.

You'll also hear from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, who will talk about the recent public disclosure of CIA "trade craft," the methods they use to recover data from tech gear, which was posted on Wikileaks. Does this development put your personal data at risk? Dr. Summers will also describe ongoing risks of data disclosure in light of the claim of hacked iCloud accounts, and the possible security dangers in all those fancy "Internet of Things" devices. What steps should you take to keep yourself safe from Internet intruders, should you just keep your old appliances? Or just expect that your online behavior will be watched, and learn to live with it?

View Details

We feature outspoken blogger and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Gene and Kirk briefly discuss the probe by French authorities into alleged emission faking by more and more car makers, the latest being Mercedes-Benz. Kirk describes the new features in iTunes 12.6 for Mac and Windows and some of the glitches he's discovered that Apple needs to fix. The discussion moves to the modest March iPad refresh from Apple, and what might come next. There's a brief debate between Gene and Kirk about the potential for the iPad as a productivity device. Gene says it could be better, while Kirk believes that power users should stick with their Macs.

You'll also hear from columnist Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. During a pop culture segment, Gene and Jeff discuss "Duets," the musical episode of a TV super hero show, "The Flash." Jeff makes a pitch for Apple users changing their passwords in light of recent hacking attempts, and he briefly describes 2-factor authentication. The discussion moves briefly to iTunes 12.6, the limits of the Apple TV, and on to the iPad refresh. Gene and Jeff focus on the possibilities for iPad productivity, especially being able to record and edit audio — and perhaps video — assets on Apple's tablet. Does it make sense to enhance its capabilities, or should such tasks be left to a Mac or PC?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature the one and only CrackBerry Kevin (Kevin Michaluk), who was in the process of traveling throughout the U.S. and Canada hosting KeyOne meet-ups for diehard BlackBerry fans. The KeyOne is a long-awaited traditional BlackBerry smartphone with physical keys that runs the Android OS. Kevin will also present a detailed history of the BlackBerry, and where the original executive team went wrong in attempting to compete with the threat of the Apple iPhone. It's a fascinating story of what might have been.

You'll also hear from active author Joe Kissell, who will discuss one of his recent books, "Take Control of Your Digital Legacy." The will be a far-ranging discussion that starts with physical belongings that can be converted to digital format, including floppy disks, vinyl and tape media and photos. There will also be a lengthy discussion on preparing a digital will, and which assets can be transferred to your heirs. What about the music and movies you bought from iTunes and other online vendors? Will you be able to transfer the license to a family member, or will they be forced to rely on your username and password if they want to use these assets? Simple backup techniques will also be discussed, and Joe will explain some of the problems he's encountered with macOS Sierra.

View Details

We feature outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Kirk discusses his recent purchase of an 8TB backup drive to accommodate his large music library. After a brief discussion of the recent Wikipedia leaks of alleged CIA efforts to hack tech gear, including smartphones and cars, Kirk makes yet another criticism of what he regards as the failure of Apple to address the needs of professional users. He explains his ongoing skepticism about Apple CEO Tim Cook's promises this customer base. The discussion moves to Apple's opposition to the right-to-repair bill being debated in Nebraska, which would require that parts and repair manuals be made available to non-authorized dealers.

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan is also outspoken about his concerns about Apple's commitment to the needs of professional users, that the Mac Pro was first launched in mid-2013 and has yet to be updated, yet sells for the same price. He remarks about the fact that Apple only released a small number of new products for 2016, and wonders what might come in 2017. He goes on about his skepticism of Cook's reassurances about Apple's commitment to pro users. There's also a spirited debate about Apples opposition to a right-to-repair bill, and whether the company should be forced to sell parts and manuals to third-party unauthorized repair shops. Gene maintains that customers should have the right to repair their gear where they want without risking the loss of Apple's new product warranty.

View Details

We feature outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." During this episode, Kirk, a resident of the UK, discusses his decision to lease a 2017 Toyota Yaris Hybrid subcompact car, and moves on to the Tesla and the potential for self-driving technology. You'll also hear why he is skeptical of Apple CEO Tim Cook's hint, during the corporate shareholder's meeting, that the company would address the needs of professional users with new Macs and creative users with Mac apps. Will there actually be a revised Mac Pro that is a more credible alternative as a computer workstation?

You'll also take a romp through the world of social networks with Cella Lao Rousseau, a reporter with iMore. During this segment, Cella will talk about the Snapchat IPO, its impact, and how the network plans to leverage its large user base to earn money.The discussion moves to profiles of the most popular social networks and how they meet the needs of their members. Snapchat's unique slant is to allow you to send photos and videos that self-destruct shortly after they are viewed. The discussion includes Facebook, which Gene says has become too bloated for him except for the Messenger app, which he uses regularly because most of his contacts are on the service. Has Twitter outlived its usefulness despite becoming the medium of choice for high-profile people, such as the President of the United States, to make announcements? What about WhatsApp, Instagram, Mashable and Reddit? What happened to one of the original social networks, MySpace?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who talks about his first self-published book, "Working Smart for Mac Users." He'll discuss how he overcame his Adult ADD disorder to organize his time and become more productive as a freelance writer. He'll also explain how he began as a hunt and peck typist to become reasonably fast on the keyboard. Does he type as fast as Gene, and does it even matter? And does he intend to review the Late 2016 MacBook Pro or does he have other products to cover?

You'll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare this time includes a brief pop culture discussion, and then he moves to the Mac Pro and whether it makes sense for Apple to upgrade a product that has been sold unchanged since 2013. Gene brings up his dream or mythical iMac Pro configuration with a more powerful processor and two internal drives. And what about AMD's new Ryzen processor family, which they claim is faster than comparable Intel silicon? Jeff brings up a recent case of ransomware on a Mac, where those infected will find their data encrypted unless they pay the fee — and maybe not even then. And is Apple going to hold a media event to launch a new lineup of iPads? What about all those predictions about the next iPhone, rumored to have an edge-to-edge OLED display and wireless charging?

View Details

We feature Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books. The main focus will be on Apple's decision to discontinue displays, and the deal that resulted in the development of the troubled LG UltraFine 5K Display, which was announced along with new MacBook Pros. What went wrong, and why did some units fail when in close proximity to a Wi-Fi router? Adam will also discuss the possibilities for future upgrades to Mac desktop computers, and the rumored use of ARM processors to manage more Mac functions. What about replacing Intel processors with Apple's A-series silicon?

You'll also hear from Adam's colleague, Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. There will be a complete discussion of the hopes and dreams for the Apple TV, and how Apple has failed, so far, in its plans to conquer the living room. What about attempts to forge content deals with the TV networks? When does Apple TV support 4K and HDR, and where is the rest of the industry going? Can Apple find a way to dominate the set-top box market? Will the networks and cable/satellite companies let them? What about the lack of new AirPort Wi-Fi routers, and is it true, as published reports claim, that Apple moved its AirPort engineering team to other divisions in the company. Is there room for an AirPort in the current marketplace, and what about combining AirPort with Apple TV?

View Details

We feature outspoken commentator Peter Cohen. During this segment, Peter will go into detail on the value of the Apple Watch, primarily for fitness, and its other potential benefits. What about the iPad? Is there a way for Apple to persuade more people to buy them? Gene explains why the iPad doesn't suit his workflow. There's also a long discussion about Apple's use of an ARM processor and watchOS-style OS to power the Touch Bar on the new MacBook Pro, and the possibilities that Apple might be gradually moving the Mac away from Intel to ARM.

You'll also hear from columnist Derek Kessler, managing editor of Mobile Nations, a web portal that runs several popular tech sites.. In advance of the 2017 Mobile World Congress on Barcelona, Spain, Derek will look over some of the possible product announcements there. What about smartwatches? Does Apple have a clear field with the Apple Watch in light of the soft sales reported by Fitbit and the Samsung Galaxy Gear? How about the smartphone market? Are there compelling features manufacturers can add to entice customers to continue to upgrade every two years or so? Why did Samsung decide not to introduce new Galaxy smartphones at the Congress this year? What about the future of tablets? Are there killer features to boost sales of the iPad and other gear? Derek will also explain why he thinks Apple is destined to move the Mac to ARM, and how that decision will really mess up Intel.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. During this session, John will talk with Gene about the possibilities of running macOS apps on iPads, whether Apple is moving more and more functionality on Macs to ARM, and whether a total processor switch is in the offing. The discussion will also cover Tim Cook's statement that iPhone tech has plenty of room to grow, possible reasons for falling iPad sales, the possibility that the Apple Watch may become a BioMed lab, and what went wrong with the fourth generation Apple TV.

You'll also hear from outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Kirk will also talk about the prospects for moving the Mac to Apple's ARM-based A-series processors and the reasons for falling iPad sales. Can Apple find a new direction to boost sales for its tablets? The discussion will also include the varying opinions of Gene and Kirk about the value of trackpads, why Kirk no longer uses his Apple Watch and why, for now at least, Gene doesn't plan to buy one. And what about those Wi-Fi glitches with the LG UltraFine 5K display, which has resulted in a design upgrade to improve shielding. Kirk wonders why LG didn't catch this defect during product testing.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature writer Steve Guttenberg, CNET's "Audiophiliac." Steve covers the home audio beat, and on this episode he'll focus on such things as the death of FM radio in Norway, whether it's on the endangered species list in the U.S., and what about HD radio, a digital add-on for AM and FM that delivers enhanced sound? Have broadcasters and audio equipment makers done enough to make you realize this technology — which comes on many new cars — even exists? Indeed, do people really listen to music anymore? Gene and Steve will also discuss the so-called vinyl resurgence, as Steve suggests a cheap way for you to begin to hear records again.

You'll also hear from "cranky" commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. And why is Bryan in "cranky" mode? He is concerned over the relative lack of new products from Apple in 2016, specifically the Mac platform, where only two models, the MacBook and the MacBook Pro, received refreshes. Bryan will also express his concerns over the fact that Apple is evidently no longer developing AirPort Wi-Fi routers, and what about the decision to ditch the display lineup and offer an ugly LG display for users of the new MacBoo Pro?

View Details

We feature outspoken commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," After Gene discusses a curious virus-style documents he was receiving from his Brother laser printer — and his solution — Kirk explains why he is bullish on Apple, despite the problems he has with recent products. Kirk continues to complain about Apple's inability to ship products on time, using the MacBook Pro and the AirPods as recent examples.

You'll also hear from author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who joins Gene in reminiscing about Apple's past, in the mid-1990s, when they actually licensed the Mac OS to such companies as Power Computing, who then produced low-cost clones. The discussion moves to Consumer Reports' controversial tests of the Late 2016 MacBook Pro. At first, due to inconsistent battery life ratings, CR refused to recommend the new notebooks. Once they worked with Apple to trace the problem, where their peculiar testing scheme activated an obscure Safari bug, the rating was changed to recommended. Bob calls it hit bait. He also discusses his first self-published book, "Working Smarter for Mac Users" and how the solutions he discovered helped him deal with his own ADHD symptoms.

View Details

We feature Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. In addition to a brief pop culture segment where Gene schools Jeff on the correct pronunciation of the wacky DC Comics character, "Mister Mxyzptlk," the discussion focuses on the MacBook Pro and the controversy over the battery tests from Consumer Reports, in which Apple's notebooks were at first not recommended until retested. And what about all the great gadgets introduced at the CES in Las Vegas? According to Jeff, there were more products that appeared to be ready to sell, rather than to show off an idea that may never make it into production.

You'll also hear from Russell Holly, managing editor of VRHeads. After a brief focus on smartphone sales, and whether the market can continue to grow quickly, the discussion moves to the upcoming Nintendo Switch gaming console. Nintendo is trying to get a leg up on the competition from Microsoft and Sony by including a small embedded tablet that can be used for gameplay on the road. You'll also hear about popular gadgets at the CES, but the main focus is Russell's special introduction to VR technology. Are those goggles poised to take over the consumer electronics market in a big way? What about shared experiences among more than a single player? Are there any downsides other than the relatively high price of admission for the best VR gear?

View Details

We feature tech journalist Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. The discussion begins with Gene's strange story of the problems he encountered installing macOS Sierra on a 2010 17-inch MacBook Pro. The segment moves on to reports that Apple is giving the Mac short shrift, and whether such stories have any credibility. Josh brings up the question of whether innovation in the tech industry began to slow down after the death of Steve Jobs in 2011. Or is that just the way the industry was destined to evolve?

You'll also hear from independent tech journalist Joe Wilcox, who writes for BetaNews. He'll tell the curious tale of the two Late 2016 MacBook Pros that he owns, and the battery life issues he has confronted on both. Yet when he gave one of those notebooks, the 13-inch model, to his wife and reconfigured it with her apps and settings, battery life was normal. What about the erratic battery life tests reported by Consumer Reports magazine, which decided not to recommend the new MacBook Pros? The discussion moves to the pressing topic of whether Apple's quality control has nosedived in recent years, as Gene cites the long-term problems with the macOS' "forgetful" Finder.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we feature noted industry analyst Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. He begins the conversation discussing the success of 4K (Ultra HD) TV sets during the holiday quarter. What about the advanced picture technologies, such as HDR, and what about the dearth of 4K content? The discussion will also focus on whether Samsung was hurt at all, in holiday sales, by the exploding batteries scandal that forced the company to discontinue the Galaxy Note 7 phablet. You’ll also hear some positive news about Mac sales for the holiday quarter despite the controversy over the Late 2016 MacBook Pro.

You’ll also hear from Derek Kessler, managing editor of Mobile Nations, a web portal that runs several popular tech sites. The discussion begins with the success of 4K TVs, and whether or not Samsung customers were dissuaded by the failure of the Galaxy Note 7. There will also be a preview of the expected hot ticket items at the 2017 CES in Las Vegas, which include VR gear. Is virtual reality poised to come into its own? What about the connected home — the Internet of Things — and can security issues derail its success? Gene and Derek will also talk about smartwatches. and the recent failure of Pebble, a pioneer in the market. Its assets were recently purchased by Fitbit. So are smartwatches now stillborn, or is there hope that the Apple Watch can help move the market to the point where such products become must-haves?

View Details

Outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," returns to talk about a variety of tech issues. A discussion about the future of diesel cars in the wake of Volkswagen's emissions scandal turns to autonomous driving, as Gene wonders when he'll be too old to drive for himself. From there the discussion veers to the use of robots in fast food restaurants and supermarkets before it settles on Apple's late-shipping AirPods. These wireless in-ear headphones have become as controversial as Apple's MacBook Pro. Kirk provides a first take, describing the setup process and his impressions of their sound quality.

You'll also hear from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, on a wide range of subjects. He'll start with extensive background information on the presumed Russian hack of the DNC and Democratic politicians. How was it determined that the Russians were responsible, and not the Chinese or the alleged "400 pound man in his basement"? You'll also hear about yet another reported hack on Yahoo, involving an estimated one billion accounts. And there's a real shocker: Is it possible for a hacker to easily "clone" your car's key fob, to take control of the vehicle or steal it? Dr. Summers explains how it can be done on many makes and models with a device that costs a mere $30, and the best ways to protect yourself.

View Details

We feature columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." During this session, Kirk remains in"rant mode," as he discusses the ongoing controversy over the battery life of the Late 2016 MacBook Pro, and why Apple chose to remove the "time remaining" display in the macOS Sierra 10.12.2 update. Kirk also explains why he's keeping his Macs longer than ever nowadays before selling them off. The discussion covers Amazon's first attempts to deliver merchandise to customers via drones.

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who is in "cranky mode" this time out. He is concerned over the fact that Apple, despite all its resources, appears to be delivering fewer and fewer new products, far less in 2016 than in 2015. And what about the new MacBook Pro. Does it truly deserve the "pro" label? Bryan wonders whether Apple's chief designer, Sir Jonathan Ive, needs an "editor" to help eliminate some of the excesses in his designs, such as the apparent obsession with slim and light in place of more important features. What about Apple's decision to stop making displays, and reports that the AirPort line of Wi-Fi routers will also be discontinued? Bryan also talks about the revelation about yet another data breach at Yahoo, this time impacting over one billion accounts.

View Details

We feature long-time author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who focuses the conversation to some degree on the controversial Late 2016 MacBook Pro with Touch Bar. He also mentions a few of his favorite gadgets for the holiday season. But perhaps the most interesting part of the discussion is when Gene and Bob speak of the time they almost met a member of the Beatles. There's also a short discussion about the reported resurgence of vinyl records, and Gene's curious problem with his AT&T wireless account, where voices on the other end of the connection sounded as if they had slowed down to half speed.

You'll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. The interview begins with a semi-technical discussion of time travel, based on the concepts from sci-fi and comic books. So what might happen if one travels back through time, and makes a very minor change that can foul up the timeline in the future? The discussion moves to several topics, including the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar. Is Apple falling behind the technology curve with its new notebook, which some claim is not really a "pro" machine? Jeff also offers an update on the latest scuttlebutt about the Apple Car, which appears to be focusing more and more on self-driving technology rather than a motor vehicle with an Apple logo on it.

View Details

We feature commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes the "tribal warfare" that often surrounds the Apple ecosystem, the difficulties in "extracting truth" from Apple, along with how the company has been blindsided by such products as the Microsoft Surface Stereo all-in-one desktop and HP's Z2 Mini Workstation; the latter is designed to compete as a higher-end alternative to the Mac mini. John will also focus on Apple's mistakes in releasing a fourth-generation Apple TV set-top box without such key features as 4K and HDR support, coming at a time when 4K TVs are really taking off.

You'll also hear from outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Gene and Kirk begin the discussion covering the so-called resurgence of vinyl, and Gene's personal experiences listening to some of the most famous recordings on the cheap record player his parents bought him. The two also provide a no-nonsense look at the real differences between analog and digital. Kirk moves into rant mode as he complains about the delays in shipping the Late 2016 MacBook Pro and the fact that, except for a brief period, the LG 5K display that was supposed to accompany Apple's upgraded notebooks was not available to order. Kirk calls it "bait and switch."

View Details

We feature outspoken blogger and podcaster Peter Cohen, who focuses on the questions raised about Apple's ongoing commitment to professional users. And what about published reports, since denied, that chief designer Sir Jonathan Ive may no longer be fully involved in developing new Apple gear? The discussion also includes ousting the manager of the automation division, home of AppleScript, Apple's decision to give up building its own displays, and the ever-controversial Late 2016 MacBook Pro, which features the contextual Touch Bar and a much higher price.

You'll also hear from columnist Joe Wilcox, of BetaNews, who will explain why he prefers his new iPhone 7 Plus despite the fact that he finds some of Google's services, such as its voice assistant, to be superior. What should Apple be thankful for during the holiday season? Joe offers his opinions about his 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bear, and also the impact of Google's Chromebook in American school systems, and whether its cheap price and focus on cloud-based apps makes it a better educational alternative. And what about Microsoft's controversial decision to force Windows 10 upgrades on users, and what about sharing telemetry data culled from users with third parties?

View Details

We feature Kyle Wiens of iFixit, a company that routinely tears down new tech gear to check for repairability. During this segment, Kyle brings up the recent report of the recall of 2.8 million Samsung washing machines due to a serious defect which can hurt people. He suggests that the quality of such appliances is far lower than it used to be. He will bring you up to date on recent gear his crew has taken apart, including the iPhone 7, the MacBook Pro with and without Touch Bar, the flawed Samsung Galaxy Note 7 phablet, which had an unusual number of battery failures, and the Pixel, Phone by Google. He'll explain why iFixit has awarded Apple's refreshed notebook one of its lowest ratings because it's near impossible to repair.

You'll also hear columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Kirk expresses his concerns about the future of AppleScript in light of Apple's decision to fire long-time automation executive Sal Soghoian for "business reasons." Does this mean that AppleScript will soon be history? Kirk is also concerned about Apple's apparent lack of attention to professional users, citing the fact that the Mac Pro hasn't been updated in three years, and the controversial launch of the late 2016 MacBook Pro. He'll also explain why calls for Apple to build iPhones in the U.S. don't recognize reality and the serious difficulties of building factories and establishing supply chains. Or is it all about politics?

View Details

We feature ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, who discuses the recent DDoS attack on DynDNS, which resulted in the slowdown or loss of access to such large sites as Netflix and PayPal. According to Dr. Summers, this attack came from botnets that were assembled by hacking home devices that connect to the Internet, such as web cams, and he provided advice on how you can protect your gear so it resists such attacks. He also talked about what changes might come when Donald Trump becomes President of the United States. Will he attempt to reverse the spin-off of ICANN, the non-profit corporation that manages Internet names? What about net neutrality and other FCC actions? Dr. Summers also speculates about three potential cyber threats.

You'll also hear from editor Sean Aune, director of operations for TechnoBuffalo, an online blog and gadget review site. He'll talk about Internet bandwidth caps, the hot tickets for holiday gear, the controversy over the MacBook Pro and its various new features. So did Apple make a mistake not to support 32GB of RAM? What about the Touch Bar, and can it become a key tool in boosting productivity, particularly from creatives? What about the impact of the price hikes for the new models? Sean will also discuss the latest gear from Microsoft, including the Surface Book and the Surface Studio all-in-one desktop. And does the current generation of 2-in-1 PC notebooks with touchscreens make sense from a usability standpoint?

View Details

Featured on this episode is Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. Josh talks extensively about the controversial MacBook Pro, and its tentpole features, including the Touch Bar and Touch ID. Did Apple overprice this new computer? What about Apple's desktop Macs that haven't been upgraded in quite a while? Gene suggests a potential replacement for the Mac Pro, a souped up iMac with eight-core processor and dual SSDs. You'll also hear about the forthcoming TV app for Apple TV and iOS. He'll focus on the missing services, including Amazon Instant Video and Netflix, and move on to the proposed merger between AT&T and Time Warner.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Brian will also talk extensively about the MacBook Pro, the Touch Bar, and whether prices might come down after the first year, similar to other Macs in recent years. What about the future of the Mac Pro? Does Apple give it a decent burial, or deliver a refresh in 2017? Gene brings up his mythical professional iMac, as the discussion moves to the twin processor design of the MacBook Pro, which has not just an Intel processor but an ARM processor with a slimmed down version of watchOS that powers the Touch Bar. Should Apple consider wholesale move to ARM on the Mac platform? There's also a brief discussion of the AT&T and Time Warner merger.

View Details

Featured on this episode is columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Gene and Kirk dissect the good, bad and ugly points in Apple's media presentation where the main focus was to introduce a new MacBook Pro line. But what about the tentpole feature of the refreshed notebooks, the Touch Bar. Does it offer enough advanced features, as a context sensitive OLED-based control strip, to justify price increase of between $300-$400? More to the point, does Kirk plan to buy one? And what about the missing hardware, such as the three-year-old Mac Pro? It's still available from Apple, but does it have a future?

You'll also hear from tech editor Sean Aune, director of operations for TechnoBuffalo, an online blog and gadget review site. He starts the discussion with his observations about the new hardware from Microsoft, introduced the day before Apple's event, where costly Surface Books and the Studio all-in-one computer were introduced. Did Microsoft take the wrong approach to actually exceed Apple's prices on their new gear. Gene and Sean also talk about the MacBook Pro and the pricey new models with Touch Bar and Touch ID. The discussion moves to questions about the planned merger between AT&T and Time Warner. A match made in heaven — or that other place? And what about the DDoS attacks against DynDNS, which, for hours recently, nearly brought down a large portion of the Internet.

View Details

Featured on this episode is columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and Wirecutter. He'll discuss what's expected from Apple's October 27, 2016 media event, rumored to focus on new Macs, and what might come from it. He'll also offer his personal experiences with macOS Sierra, cybersecurity and the recent hack of Democratic emails, posted in WikiLeaks, which has become a campaign issue, and tech policy and the election. Rob will also talk about the Pixel, Phone by Google, and its prospects.

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. He'll join Gene in a brief pop culture discussion, comparing the two visions of DC Comics, and whether the more optimistic TV version is a better fit for super hero fans than the dour movie version. The discussion will move to the prospects for the Apple Car, and whether the focus will be on creating a new car or offering a turnkey solution for autonomous driving to be licensed to car makers. Jeff will also talk about the prospects for new Macs at Apple's media event, expectations for a refreshed MacBook Pro, and the possible fates of two models that haven't been updated in a while. So will there be a refreshed Mac mini, and what's going to happen to the Mac Pro? And what about the failure of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, and shouldn't the company take a few lessons on corporate damage control?

View Details

Featured on this episode is outspoken blogger and podcaster Peter Cohen. This week, Peter talks about Samsung's Galaxy Note 7 scandal, in which the product was discontinued because over 100 handsets overheated or caught fire. How is Samsung handling the controversy, and how will Apple deal with the fallout? The discussion also focuses on falling Mac sales and whether the dearth of new models is at least partly responsible. And what about the Pixel, Phone by Google smartphone? How will Google's Android partners react to the competition?

You'll also hear a comprehensive security update from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. This week, Dr. Summers talks about the reports that the Russians are responsible for the recent hacks of Democratic emails and Twitter accounts. Can we believe the WikiLeaks disclosure of this material, or has it been altered? Is this the beginning of a possible Cybersecurity Cold War? How will it play out, and how can you protect your own email and other online accounts from hacks? Dr. Summers also discusses the recently revealed email hack at Yahoo, and whether the late disclosure will impact Verizon's decision to acquire that company.

View Details

You'll also hear from blogger and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Kirk will detail the problems he confronted trying to set up Apple's two-factor authentication scheme on his devices, and the inability of Apple's tech support to help him. He'll also discuss iCloud growth pains and respond to Gene's query as to whether it would make sense for Apple to add online support for Time Machine and other backup systems. Kirk also discusses the Pixel, Phone by Google smartphone, Google WiFi and other products. The discussion concludes with the disconnect between regular users and tech savvy users, using Apple's decision to make macOS Sierra an automatic download to customers as a notable example.

View Details

Featured on this episode is commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. The discussion begins with his experiences as owner of an Apple Watch Series 2. Is it something one comes to love, or simply like a little more than the original Apple Watch? The discussion also focuses on the iPhone 7, and Samsung's battery defects on the Galaxy Note 7. And what is Google doing that has allowed Chromebooks to soar in popularity at U.S. schools? Is it all about price? If so, how can Apple possibly compete? The discussion also briefly covers the latest scuttlebutt about the Apple Car.

You'll also hear from one of our most popular guests over the years, Joe Kissell, author of over 60 books on technology, including 'Take Control of Upgrading to Sierra." You'll learn about the best features of the new macOS. The discussion will also cover Time Machine backups, and its limitations, and Apple's new APFS file system, first introduced in development form in Sierra, which is expected to be ready for public consumption by the time the next macOS arrives in 2017. You'll also hear hints and tips from Joe from one of his books, "Speeding Up Your Mac," and the best ways to get maximum performance from your vintage computer. Joe will also present common sense advice from another book, "Troubleshooting Your Mac."

View Details

We present blogger and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." He'll talk about his strange problems moving from the beta channel of iOS 10 to the release version, outline the interface changes that are meant to simplify Apple Music, and briefly comment about a decision by the U.S. Senate to spend a mere $19.5 million on plans for Mars exploration and a new spaceship design. The discussion moves to computer speakers, as Gene talks about his quest to find a system that won't blow the circuit breaker for his office when he's listening to music and also printing a document on his laser printer.

You'll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. He'll also talk about Gene's quest for new computer speakers, Apple's application to patent an exclusive design for a — paper bag, Apple's alleged attempt to discourage customers from buying music with Apple Music, new developments in AI technology at Apple, and the latest scuttlebutt about alleged plans for an Apple Car. Is Apple giving up on building a car and focusing on self-driving technology? What about those published reports that Apple is in talks to acquire a luxury sports car maker, McLaren Automotive, and whether such a move even makes sense.

View Details

We present Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. The topics include speculation about iPhone 7 sales in light of reports of heavy preorders and sellouts, particularly for the iPhone 7 Plus. As author of "iOS 10: A Take Control Crash Course," Josh details some of the best features of the new OS, and discusses the download glitch that, for an hour, gave Apple customers a defective version that bricked some devices until they could be restored, usually via iTunes.

You'll also hear from tech editor Sean Aune, director of operations for TechnoBuffalo, an online blog and gadget review site. Gene begins the discussion with his tale of woe about a Brother HL-5450DN printer that keeps tripping the circuit breaker in his home office, and surprising solution from the manufacturer. Gene and Sean go back and forth about Apple's "courageous" decision to remove the headphone jack on the iPhone 7, the possible reasons and the impact to customers. Sean will also discuss an Apple poll of Mac notebook owners reportedly circulating in which they are asked whether they ever use the headphone jack. The discussion also focuses on Samsung's quality control problems with the Galaxy Note 7 that has been recalled due to episodes of the battery bursting into flames or exploding.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." In pointed remarks, Kirk explains why he's not terribly impressed with Apple's explanation for ditching the headphone jack, nor, for that matter, with the iPhone 7, which he doesn't regard as a significant improvement over previous models. In response to Gene's remark about the headphone jack being a notorious source of unreliability, Kirk brings up problems with frayed Lightning cables. There's also a brief discussion about the failure of the paperless revolution.

You'll also hear from prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who works with Gene in setting up the Golden Master version of macOS Sierra, which was released on September 8th to public beta testers. Gene briefly toys with the Mac version of Siri, not his favorite feature, before the discussion moves to the iPhone 7. Contrary to Kirk's reaction, Bob explains why he's impressed with the new features, particularly the camera enhancements that may allow him to leave his DSLR camera home. You'll also hear Bob's reaction to the loss of the headphone jack, and Gene will talk about Apple's announcement that it will no longer reveal first weekend sales for the new iPhone. The excuse is that they won't have enough stock on hand to meet demand, so potential sales can't be reported.

View Details

We present tech journalist Sean Aune, director of operations for TechnoBuffalo, an online blog and gadget review site. He'll focus mainly on what's expected from Apple during the September 7th media event in San Francisco. The predictions mainly cover an iPhone 7, but Sean will also discuss the possibilities for introducing an Apple Watch 2, and Apple's skirmish with the European Commission over a $14.5 billion tax bill.

You'll also hear from security expert and ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, who will discuss the latest hacks impacting the Democratic National Committee and other Democratic facilities. Are the hackers strictly focusing on one political party? And what about those recent security fixes from Apple?

The final half of the show will feature John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes such topics as "Blood in the Macintosh Water," why "There Ain't No Such Thing as Free TV," "Is There Anything Apple Can't Do? That's Now a Problem," and how "Autonomous Vehicles Might Develop Superior Judgement." Gene wonders whether the day might come in the next few years where he will have to give up the keys to his car and surrender to a self-driving vehicle.

View Details

We present columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." During this session, Gene will tell Kirk about the free Internet service he's received and how its speed and reliability compare to the service you have to pay for. Kirk will discuss his article on the iPhone's schizophrenic store numbers, where you get different figures on how much space you have available on your device. He'll also talk about mastering and remastering techniques for music recordings.

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan will talk about the information leaks from the supply chain and what they might tell you about forthcoming Apple gear, whether there is reason to freak out over reports Apple plans to ditch the headphone jack on the next iPhone, incremental improvements in battery technology, his concerns over the lack of a Mac Pro refresh since 2013, and possible Apple products in the future and how they might be even more significant than Apple's present-day gear, including the Mac and the iPhone.

View Details

We present commentator and columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and Wirecutter, who discusses, at length, the new wireless data plans from AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile, and why "unlimited" data plans are actually not quite "unlimited." He'll also talk about the issues involved with municipal broadband, why "everybody is getting hacked," and the Microsoft's Windows 10 Anniversary Update. Now that it's no longer free, is it worth the upgrade price? What about Microsoft's shady efforts to force people to upgrade when it was available at no cost to customers?

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. In a special pop culture segment, Gene and Jeff will discuss the plans for a musical episode of two of The CW's super hero shows, "Supergirl" and "The Flash." Jeff will continue to express his concerns about the different DC Comics "universes" on TV and the movies. This is where there are different actors playing such characters as Superman and The Flash. Jeff will also talk about Uber's project to establish a self-driving ride-sharing system and the new efforts to fight spam robocalls by Apple, Google and the FCC.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present outspoken commentator Peter Cohen for a return visit. In a wide-ranging discussion, Peter discusses the possible reasons why there has been only one Mac update this year. Is it possible Apple is planning major refreshes for the MacBook Pro and other models come fall? How has the iPhone SE, the smallest model, influenced sales? He'll also briefly discuss Apple's new bounty policy, announced at the Black Hat USA 2016 conference, to offer up to $200,000 to those who discover serious security leaks in Apple products. Ongoing rumors about an Apple Car are also discussed, along with the possibility that it may actually be about self-driving technology and not a new car.

You'll also hear from commentator and author Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. He'll discuss the Apple TV, and the efforts by Apple and other companies to provide cord-cutting alternatives to cable and satellite TV. What about the decision of Hulu, owned by several TV networks, to kill the free service and focus on subscriptions only? Josh talks about the recent failure of Kagi, a payment processing company that managed funds for shareware and other products. He also outlines Apple's decision to pay a bounty to those who discover security defects, and the possible reasons for the late arrival of upgrades for Mac hardware.

View Details

You'll also hear from Sean Aune, director of operations for TechnoBuffalo, an online blog and gadget review site, who will also talk at length about the lack of Mac updates. Is it about Intel's chips, new designs, the fall arrival of macOS Sierra? Or has Apple necome less interested in keeping the Mac up to date? Sean will also give positive reviews on his experiences with a pair of Chromebooks. He'll also talk about their growing presence in school systems in the U.S. You'll also hear advice on what to do if one of your accounts, bank, credit card or services, is hacked, as Sean recounts the occasion when someone from the UK hacked his Netflix account and was watching movies and TV shows day and night.

View Details

We feature Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. The discussion begins with a pop culture session, covering the latest super hero shows, the selection of a new actor to play Superman on TV, and the curious differences between DC Comics TV shows and movies, which exist in what appear to be separate universes. Moving on to the tech world, Gene and Jeff talk about the recent appointment of Bob Mansfield to lead Apple's Project Titan, which reportedly is focusing on autonomous driving and a potential Apple Car. There's also a discussion of Apple's financials and the possibility that Apple is slowly starting to rise again from the doldrums.

You'll also hear from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, who will focus the main part of his discussion on the recent hacks of Democratic National Committee (DNC) emails, and how hackers might conspire to influence the U.S. election for President. Is there an object lesson here, that anything in an email is potentially vulnerable to hacking? And what about the security of voting machines? Can hackers manipulate the results? Dr. Summers will also discuss the Summer 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro. Does the arrival of hundreds of thousands of people create the climate for hackers to steal money from tourists by taking over ATM machines and performing other criminal acts? How do you protect yourself from theft while traveling abroad?

View Details

We feature columnist and author Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. During this session, Josh dips into the status of Apple Pay and compares it with Walmart Pay. And what happened to the Apple Pay rival, CurrentC, which Walmart and other vendors had been testing? You'll also hear Josh's reaction to the iOS 10 beta, and what he regards as the best features. Both iOS 10 and macOS Sierra are being made available as public betas for download by Apple customers.

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. He'll focus on a report that scientists are attempting to use a 3D printer to match the fingerprints of a deceased person in order to open a protected smartphone. It's not stated whether this is an iPhone, which sets a 48-hour limit for fingerprint access before requiring a passcode. Bryan will also talk about rumors that Apple is ditching the old fashioned headphone jack on the next iPhone in place of using the Lightning port and an adapter. You'll also hear about reports that Apple has delayed production of an Apple Car until 2021, the potential downsides of self-driving, and about a curious statement about Apple from BlackBerry CEO John S. Chen.

View Details

We feature columnist, podcaster and show regular Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Before getting to the meat of the discussion, Gene and Kirk discuss their choices for Internet service. Essentially, Kirk has one hookup to his UK home, though he can use different providers, but it offers slow uploads. Gene explains why, as a cost-cutting move, he switched providers and what level of performance he receives. The discussion moves to Kirk's snap decision to buy an entry-level Lenovo Chromebook during Amazon Prime day for 99 pounds UK, and his surprising reaction upon being exposed to Google's web-based PC platform.

You'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and Wirecutter. With reports of slowing Mac sales, Rob presents his concerns over the lack of significant Mac hardware upgrades in 2016, except for a refreshed MacBook. The discussion moves to politically incorrectness. Rob discusses an open letter from some technology executives that opposed Donald Trump. He also summarizes Hillary Clinton's tech policy paper (Trump didn't have one when this show was prepared), and what we can learn from her email situation when you move past the politics. Rob goes on to explain some best practices to make your email as secure as possible without jumping through hoops.

View Details

We feature columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. During this interview, he'll explain why people who feel the iPhone is just a cute phone with Internet access are wrong, with the focus on the fancy new Messages app for the next versions of iOS and macOS, why he plans to buy the iPhone 7, the possible reasons Apple killed the Thunderbolt display and the fate of the Mac Pro, and the new file system Apple plans to introduce on all their devices some time in 2017.

You'll also hear from columnist, podcaster and show regular Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Before getting to the meat of the discussion, he'll tell you how he helped out with props for a skit during an episode of "Saturday Night Live" back in the 1970s. The discussion will move to Gene's ongoing odyssey with an office chair that keeps breaking apart before talking about the public betas of macOS Sierra and iOS 10. Kirk will offer what he feels are some of the best things about the macOS beta, and his early experiences running the Siri voice assistant on his Mac. He'll also briefly comment on the enhancements coming in iOS 10. Apple released public betas of both on July 7th.

View Details

We feature columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Topics will include the rumors that Apple will ditch a proper headphone jack on the next iPhone. Is this true, or just another tall tale, and why would Apple make such a move. The discussion also includes Gene's troubling odyssey in updating his Logitech Harmony universal remote to recognize new devices, which came to a dead halt because of a conflict with OS X El Capitan. We offer the workaround, and there will also be a brief discussion on "Internet of Things" home automation.

You'll also hear from prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will offer his skeptical viewpoint about Apple's rumored move to set aside headphone jacks on future iPhones. The discussion will move to Apple's "head fake" policy, where they will deny or deride a product, only to come up with their own version a short time later. Bob will also give his reaction to the news that Siri is making its debut on Macintosh computers starting with macOS Sierra, due this fall. The discussion will also focus on Amazon customer service and Gene's Harmony remote odyssey.

View Details

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. The bill of fare this week includes possible changes in Macs over the next few years, and some talk about the future of the platform. Will there come a time in our lifetimes where Macs have been completely replaced by something new and better? Bryan will also discuss the controversy over rumors that Apple plans to ditch the headphone jacks on the next iPhone, presumably the iPhone 7, and rely on the Lightning port for such connections. He'll explain why it's not going to be bad news if it happens. He'll also talk about watchOS 3, and whether the forthcoming update for the Apple Watch will allow people who merely like the device to learn to love it.

View Details

The Night Owl and his guest panel take a long look at the Apple's announcements at the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). It starts with our fearless prognostications as to what Apple would announce. How close were they and those of the guests on the June 11, 2016 episode? On addition to the debut of Siri on macOS Sierra, you'll learn about the other key features, such as the Universal Clipboard, Optimize Storage and the ability to share a Mac's Desktop and Documents folders. How do they impact iCloud, and can your ISP cope with the higher bandwidth demands? You'll also learn about the new, fancier Messages app for Mac and iOS, and all its special effects, along with the other changes for iOS 10, watchOS 3 and tvOS 10. So does the new OS for Apple Watch finally resolve all the performance and usability problems that have evidently held the gadget back?

Our guests include author Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, and outspoken commentator and podcaster Peter Cohen. Peter will also introduce you to Apple's brand spanking new file system, APFS, which, when it debuts in 2017, promises to deliver faster and more reliable performance on the storage devices on all Apple products.

View Details

We focus almost entirely on Apple's WWDC, coming the week of June 13. The most significant predictions will be highlighted, including the possibility that the Mac operating system will be renamed "macOS" to conform to the style of the other operating systems, such as iOS. You'll also hear about the possibilities that a souped-up version of Apple's virtual assistant, Siri, will be launched along with its initial appearance on the Mac. What about updates for iOS, watch OS and tvOS? Is there room for Apple to introduce new hardware at what is usually a software-related event for developers? Note: We fully expect that some of this material may be outdated after the WWDC keynote, but it'll be a fascinating episode regardless due to all the fascinating background information.

Our guests include columnist Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic," and Sean Aune, director of operations for TechnoBuffalo, an online blog and gadget review site. Jonny will also discuss the sudden departure of Tony Fadell, the "father" of the iPod and CEO of Google's Nest division, which builds intelligent thermostats and smoke detectors. Gene will express his skepticism about "Internet of Things" gear.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," joins Gene to engage in speculation about the possible new product announcements at Apple's WWDC. In talking about possible enhancements to Siri, Kirk will explain why it hasn't been terribly successful for him. We'll also cover the possible future of the Mac Pro, which hasn't been updated since 2013, whether Apple should extend the iPhone product cycle because it's harder to find compelling new features, and the possible appearance of Touch ID on Macs. Kirk will also talk about his new podcast, "The Next Track," which recently debuted.

You'll also hear an experimental segment featuring Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. After briefly discussing the prospects at the WWDC, we'll go into pop culture mode, with the emphasis on DC Comics super hero shows on TV. Ahead of this segment, Gene binged on the 1990's version of "The Flash," which starred John Wesley Shipp as the "scarlet speedster." That show will be compared to The CW version, starring Grant Gustin. The discussion will move on to "Arrow," and its resemblance to Batman, the Batman prequel, "Gotham," and "Supergirl," which moves to The CW for its second season after debuting on CBS. And does the line of demarcation between DC Comics movies and TV, which causes all sorts of confusion, make any sense?

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, dissects the facts about the presumed success of Google, the Android mobile platform, and Chromebooks, those cheap notebooks that are evidently selling well to K-12 school systems. Daniel asks the questions journalists seldom ask about the problems with Android, and the lack of serious new features in the latest version of the OS. He also discusses the problems Microsoft has had as it disengages itself from the failed multibillion dollar purchase of Nokia's handset division.

You'll also hear from an ethical hacker, Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, who delivers an update on the Apple versus FBI controversy, where the two parties were locked in a legal battle over attempts to unlock an iPhone used in a terrorist attack. The case ended after the FBI paid over a million dollars to hackers who succeeded in breaking into the phone. He talks about Microsoft's lawsuit agains the U.S. government over the right to inform customers when a federal agency wants to examine their emails. There's also an extended pop culture discussion, where Dr. Summers comments on how computer hackers are portrayed in the movies and on TV, and whether those portrayals accurately reflect how these people actually do their stuff. The segment concludes with an overview of how hackers attacked the SWIFT interbank funds transfer system in an attempt to steal $100 million.

View Details

We present outspoken commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare this week includes speculation that the desktop version of Siri will make its debut in the next version of OS X — or will it be rebranded macOS? — this fall. The discussion will also cover Apple's challenge in developing an electric car, and whether it'll be offered as a car-sharing scheme, rather than sold to individual customers. And what about the cooling iPhone upgrade fever? Is Apple going to deliver a compelling enough upgrade to entice customers to buy the next iPhone?

You'll also hear from columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will focus much of his discussion on iTunes 12.4 for Mac and Windows. Has Apple managed to respond to customer complaints about the loss of a full-time sidebar and an increasingly complex user interface? The discussion will also include hopes for improving the look and feel of Apple Music, the possibilities for an Apple subscription TV service, and whether Siri will make its debut on Macs with the next OS upgrade? There will also be a short discussion about TV show spin-offs.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present publisher/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, takes control of a variety of topics. He talks about the confusing array of chatting apps, including WhatsApp, and it's peculiar set up process on a Mac and PC, the use case for different Apple notebook computers, such as the MacBook and MacBook Pro, and what Apple might improve to boost sales. The discussion turns to the state of iPad keyboards, and whether Apple should produce one that's closer in design to a more traditional Mac keyboard.

You'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and Wirecutter. The discussion begins with Gene's concerns about unexpected changes in Skype's option to automatically adjust microphone levels, where the feature was turned on after being switched off. Rob will talk about the controversy over Facebook's priorities in posting the "Trending" news list, and he will give some projections about what might come from the forthcoming Google I/O conference, where the next version of Android will be launched. And what about Apple's lagging Mac sales? What can they improve to boost sales, or is that even possible?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, blogger and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," talks about Apple's peculiar standards for mentioning their products. So it's never "the iPhone," but "iPhone," which is, to them, a proper name. The discussion moves to Apple's product refreshes, and whether they are just too tame to convince people to upgrade. With the iPhone SE selling for $50 less than its predecessor, the iPhone 5s, is Apple considering setting lower prices for other iPhones too when new models arrive this fall?

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who talks at length about Apple's financials, and how Wall Street sets expectations (correct or otherwise) for a company. The discussion moves to rumors of major fixes to Apple Music, and ongoing speculation about whether Apple will actually build a car. Bryan will explain why he feels it would be wrong for Apple to buy an existing car company, such as Tesla, because Apple never buys "income" in making acquisitions. There will also be a brief discussion about Apple's plans to introduce paid search in the App Store.

View Details

Kyle Wiens of iFixit joins us to give the results of teardowns of some of the very latest tech gear. During this segment, he'll discuss Apple's 2016 MacBook, and whether, aside from minor hardware upgrades, it differs much from last year's model. He'll also present the results of the teardown of the iPhone SE, the latest smartphones from Samsung and LG, and some virtual reality headsets. He'll also remind you about the poor repair rating of the Microsoft Surface tablets.

You'll also hear from Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. He discusses why he feels Mac sales dropped so much in the March quarter; he suggests some of Apple's notebooks are long in the tooth and need major refreshes. He'll also talk about the impact of the iPhone SE, and whether there's a big market for smaller smartphones. The discussion will also focus on 4K TV, and where the new format is going. What price points are most popular, and what about getting more genuine 4K content to watch? Stephen also talks about the contribution of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to the infotainment systems of a growing number of motor vehicles.

View Details

we present columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," On this episode, he talks about the new monthly price plans for Amazon Prime, Amazon customer service, a possible smudging problem on 9.7-inch iPad Pro's display, and Apple's user hostile upgrade policies for most Macs. There will also be a brief discussion on Kirk's search for a new hybrid car.

You'll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. Jeff will talk about lingering Apple/FBI issues, concerns about proposed legislation in the U.S. Congress covering device encryption, the European Commission's antitrust case against Google over its alleged restrictive policies on the Android platform, the prospects for an Apple Car, the inability to upgrade RAM on many Macs, and the need for new features in the iOS to make it possible to do more productive things on an iPad. Gene repeats his concerns about the fact that he cannot use an iPad to record episodes of his radio shows due to Apple's "sandboxing" limitations.

View Details

We present cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider. He'll discuss what you need to understand about the Apple versus FBI conflict over iPhone security and its implications. Daniel will also talk about the well-known security shortcomings of the Android platform, that only a small number are using a slow software-based encryption scheme. Sales of iPhones and the high-end Samsung Galaxy smartphones are also compared and contrasted.

You'll also hear from Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic." Jonny will talk about the prospects for an Apple Car, and what we might expect from Apple. Does the forthcoming mid-sized Tesla 3 pave the way? Jonny will also question why Apple hasn't pushed the fourth generation Apple TV to the educational market, Apple versus the FBI, and how things are being done in the UK. The discussion will move to how Apple has been able to boost Mac market share against Windows, and the growing presence of Macs and other Apple gear in the enterprise.

View Details

We present author Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. He'll focus his discussion first on the forthcoming Tesla 3 electric car, which garnered over 325,000 preorders days after it was announced. He'll also talk about the lingering Apple/FBI issues, OS X security and is latest book covering the fourth generation Apple TV. Gene explains why he's still using the previous model.

You'll also hear from commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who discusses the latest security exploit involving Adobe Flash, and why he removed Flash from all his Macs, and only uses the embedded version in the Google Chrome browser. He'll also comment on the lingering Apple/FBI controversy, and talk up his new iPhone SE and iPad Pro. The discussion concludes with Amazon's efforts to expand same-day delivery and supermarkets that allow you to place online orders for home delivery in the U.S. and UK.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. At the top of John's agenda this week is Apple's dispute with the FBI over an iPhone 5c used by a terrorist. Now that the authorities have recovered data from it, is the dispute over — or is it beginning? The very thought takes us to a compelling issue, that, to John, iPhone technology is "indistinguishable from magic." John will also explain why he feels Apple's 9.7-inch iPad Pro will "breathe new life into the product line." He'll also talk about OS X, which debuted as a Public Beta in 2000. Is it time for Apple to think about making OS X and iOS more proactive, more intelligent?

You'll also hear from ethical hacker Dr. Timothy Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. Dr. Summers will participate in a thorough discussion of the ins and outs of the FBI's solution to unlocking that iPhone. He'll also speculate about what techniques the authorities may have employed to recover the data, and whether that method can possibly present security problems for users. He'll also explain why he thinks that Android's more flexible encryption model might present a higher level of security. The discussion concludes with credit card safety and whether Bitcoin has seen its day. Is there anything about the Bitcoin financial model that banks might still find useful?

View Details

We present prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus with lots to talk about. He first complains about problems dealing with Microsoft's One Drive and why he kept getting strange system errors after trying to upload files to the cloud storage system. The discussion moves on to why Apple refused to post his new satiric song, "Why iTunes Must Die!" in iTunes. Bob and Gene talk about Apple dodging a bullet in its conflict with the FBI, and there's a segment about the "printer ink wars" and how to save a bundle on consumables. Bob will also explain how his Apple Watch continues to be an indispensable tool for his health and fitness needs.

You'll also hear from outspoken columnist and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Kirk will discuss what he regards as an advertising scam at Facebook, when you agree to pay for additional traffic to boost a post in your timeline. He'll also explain why he prefers a 4-inch iPhone, and, therefore, ordered an iPhone SE. There's a brief discussion about Apple's public conflict with the FBI over a court order to unlock an iPhone 5c used by a terrorist. That order is current postponed as the FBI tries out a third-party's solution.

View Details

We present Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. He'll discuss the ever-complicated Apple/FBI conflict, where Apple is being asked to create what's called a "GovOS," to allow the authorities to break into an iPhone 5c used by a terrorist. He'll also make some sage predictions of what might come from the Apple media event set for March 21, 2016. Speculation has it that the offerings will include a new 4-inch iPhone, and an iPad refresh, a new version of the 9.7 model. Bryan also talks about his efforts to live without his Apple Watch for a full week, offering his impressions after five days. And, yes, he still wears a watch, a mechanical one.

You'll also hear from freelance writer and podcaster Peter Cohen, who will also discuss the possibilities at the Apple media event, and whether the expected new products appeal to him. The discussion will also include Peter's impressions of the Apple/FBI conflict, and his feelings about the government's contradictory claims about whether or not it's limited to a single iPhone. Gene moves the discussion to the reliability of recent laser printers, citing his problems with a Brother black and white laser, where the fuser assembly failed after roughly 28,000 copies were printed; it's rated for 100,000 copies.

View Details

We present outspoken commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. He will present his views about the ongoing Apple dispute with the FBI over whether our favorite fruit company can be forced to build a special OS backdoor to unlock an iPhone 5c work phone used by a terrorist in the San Bernardino attacks. He'll also talk about Apple's March 21, 2016 media event, where they are expected to introduce a 4-inch iPhone and a new 9.7-inch iPad. And how does adding new models contribute to model bloat at Apple? Can they — should they — produce fewer product variations?

You'll also hear from columnist Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Kirk will present his views about the ongoing Apple/FBI case. He will also explain why he has preferred 4-inch iPhones over the larger versions, and what he anticipates from Apple's media event. Is he ready to trade his iPhone 6s for the rumored iPhone 5se? He'll also talk about the final outcome of the Apple e-book antitrust case, where they are now forced to pay a settlement of $450 million to states, attorneys, and customers.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, the polarizing topic of Apple versus the FBI is front and center once again, as our guests all give you their opinions about Apple's fight to prevent being forced to create a special version of iOS that would defeat security controls on a terrorist suspect's iPhone 5c work phone. The matter was made more confusing by the ruling from a Federal Magistrate Judge that Apple did not have to break the encryption of an iPhone that was evidence in a criminal case. As the week progressed, other tech companies had filed amicus briefs in the case favoring Apple's position, while some others filed in favor of the government. You'll also hear about the possibility that Apple plans to introduce a new 4-inch iPhone in a late March media event.

Our guests include Bill Carey, VP of Marketing for Roboform, a company that makes password management software, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, and columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and Wirecutter.

View Details

We take a common sense look at the brouhaha involving Apple and the FBI. The authorities have obtained a court order directing Apple to, in essence, build a special version of iOS that would defeat the security protections of an iPhone 5c to access its encrypted data. This handset was used by one of the shooters in the December 2015 San Bernardino, CA attack. Apple's response is that it would create a dangerous precedent that could compromise the security of hundreds of millions of Apple customers, and would also allow other government agencies, and even foreign governments, to make similar requests. Apple is also calling for a government commission to consider the matter and make recommendations.

Our guests include publisher/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, and security guru Dr. Timothy C. Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. In addition, Dr. Summers will provide a brief look at the security situation on iOS, Android and Windows 10.

View Details

We are joined by commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes Apple's dispute with the FBI over whether they should be forced to develop a special iOS update that'll allow the authorities to break into an encrypted iPhone 5c that belonged to a terrorist. John will also talk about "hard disks spinning right into the graveyard," the severe limitations of Apple's Time Machine backup app, what happens when your autonomous (self-driving) car crashes, whether the next Apple Watch will be thinner, and what to do when your Apple Watch informs you NOT to eat a candy bar or other junk food.

You'll also hear from commentator and podcaster Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who also talks about the implications of the court order demanding that Apple break into an encrypted iPhone. Kirk also attempts to answer the question of how software on an encrypted iPhone can be updated without someone entering the correct passcode. He'll also discuss rumors that Apple is working on an explicit TV series featuring their own Dr. Dre, whether Apple's software quality has declined, and whether we should discontinue daylight savings time and, perhaps, all time zones.

View Details

We present freelance writer and podcaster Peter Cohen. He covers the "Error 53" controversy, involving iPhone 6-family handsets that have had Touch ID sensors repaired or replaced by unauthorized service shops. When you try to update the smartphones, they stop working and display that obtuse error. Although Apple maintains the move was done for the customer's protection, it has already sparked threats of class-action lawsuits. Peter will also talk about the fourth-generation Apple TV and whether some might have expected too much from it. And what about Apple's so-far moribund attempts to start a TV subscription service?

You'll also hear from prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus. After he and Gene have a brief chat about Texas culture and cuisine, the discussion moves to the "Error 53" controversy and Bob's take on it. He also talks about cable cord-cutting, admitting that he would actually like to shut off his cable TV service if he could replace the programming in other ways. Bob also details the course he's taking in online marketing, and his plans to write a book on how to stop procrastinating when you're trying to get work done with your Mac. He'll also introduce his new recording and petition to persuade Apple to overhaul iTunes, entitled "iTunes Must Die!" You'll hear an excerpt of the recording during the episode; we'll present the full song in stereo exclusively in the version of the show posted for members of Tech Night Owl+.

View Details

We present noted industry analyst Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group. He provides an extensive discussion about the arrival of 4K TVs, their success so far in the marketplace, Will enhanced color features, such as the Ultra HD Premium standard, continue to push sales? What about the lack of 4K content? Stephen also discusses flattening sales of iPhones and other smartphones, and whether one key reason is the longer upgrade cycle?

We also present commentator and talk show host Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." He offers a change-of-pace discussion about the technology of dealing with autoimmune diseases. The discussion moves to why iPad sales are falling, and have fallen for several years. Is it much, again, about the fact that people who buy them see no reason to upgrade? Kirk goes to explain that the older iPad actually works fine other than some possible performance issues with games and other software. He also cites an article, from tech columnist Jason Snell, about the rise of Chromebooks against iPads in budget-conscious school systems. And what about competition from cheap competitors, such as a $50 tablet from Amazon? What about Apple buying BMW? Are we serious?

View Details

We cover Apple's financials for their fiscal first quarter, where they reported record sales and revenue, but just barely. For this quarter, they are projecting lower sales. Just what headwinds is Apple facing, and can they resume the pace of torrid sales growth? Were Apple's 2015 product introductions, especially the Apple Watch and fourth-generation Apple TV, not compelling enough? We'll also cover a proposal from the FCC to open up the cable set-top box market, so you can pick the devices you want to watch programing instead of being forced to buy or rent theirs. If the proposal is approved, and it will be considered on February 18 of this year, would that open up new markets for Apple, Google, Samsung and other companies?

Our guests include Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, and Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer.

View Details

We present commentator and talk show host Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." He describes a system in use in UK supermarkets — it's not in the U.S. — where customers can use their own hand-held scanners to tally purchases. The discussion turns to the planned phaseout of the free version of iTunes Radio, the possibilities for a sales slowdown of Apple gear, and Apple's excessive prices for Mac RAM and drive upgrades. Since only a few Macs can be upgraded by customers, this has become an annoying problem.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. A major portion of the episode will focus on bills introduced in both the California and New York legislatures that would ban the sale of encrypted smartphones that don't have backdoors that would make it possible for governments to have access to the contents. Such tech companies as Apple and Google have come under fire by authorities, including FBI Director James Comey, for using industrial strength encryption. During the interview, Bryan will explain why he feels this backdoor would also make encrypted smartphones vulnerable to hacking by criminals, hackers, and other governments.

View Details

We present commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who talks about the future of the Mac Pro, how Apple, denied leadership in 4K TV, is hoping to gain traction with an electric car. You'll also hear a brief debate about whether Apple will really attempt to acquire Time Warner and how that move might restart moribund plans to establish a subscription TV service. John will also talk about how children can learn how to program on an iPad. He'll also tell you why he loves his Mac Pro.

We also present a CES wrap with columnist Rob Pegoraro, of USA Today and Yahoo Tech. The main focus will be on 4K TV. Are customers finally ready to flock to the new high resolution TV format? Rob will talk about the latest enhancements that include Ultra HD Premium, which will deliver better color and a wider contrast that will really make the picture pop. And what about the possibility of affordable OLED TVs, and plans to release a new HD tuner system to allow 4K shows to be broadcast by TV stations? Why will the new TV tuners eventually mean the end of existing HD broadcasting? You'll also hear Rob's opinions about the prospects for an Apple car.

View Details

We observe the 15th anniversary of Apple's iTunes with commentator Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." He focus first on the history of Apple's original jukebox app, and how it's changed and expanded over the years. Kirk and Gene also talk about the need for Apple to overhaul the way movie and TV content is handled. As it is, movie rentals may suddenly disappear, while the option to buy a movie remains. Does Apple solve this by launching a TV subscription service — and will the entertainment companies accept a simpler buying/renting scheme?

You'll also hear from columnist Nancy Gravley, of The Mac Observer. The discussion will focus on her ongoing efforts to help senior citizens become competent with Macs, iPhones and iPads. So if you have someone in your family who is uncomfortable with technology, you'll want to hear Nancy give you some quick hints and tips about what's confusing about even the personal computer "for the rest of us," the personal computer that is supposed to "just work."

View Details

We present a 2015 teardown roundup with Kyle Wiens of of iFixit. He discuss the products that were easiest to repair, and the ones most difficult. He'll also answer the Night Owl's hypothetical question, whether adding upgrade capability to more Macs would seriously degrade the thin and light design. In short, is Jonathan Ive and/or Apple marketing going just a little too far with their "thin fetish"?

You'll also hear from commentator/author Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." On the agenda during the opening pop culture segment is his reaction to "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Does it really fulfill the hype, and justify the amazing box office receipts? Kirk will also talk about Apple's agreement to pay $350 million in back taxes to Italy, and the possible consequence in the action in the rest of the European Union. Kirk also talks about his ongoing concerns with Apple Music, its inability to learn about his musical tastes, and what he'd like Apple to do in order to overhaul iTunes.

View Details

We present an important security update with Dr. Timothy C. Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. We discuss the ongoing debate over whether Apple, Google and other tech companies should allow back doors to governments to retrieve and decode encrypted information from smartphones and other gear. The discussion also covers fake emails that purport to come from your bank, fake emails that purport to come from your family and friends, why you should be skeptical of emails from people who claim to know you and request financial assistance, and how to stop leaving digital breadcrumbs.

We also present a special year-end wrap-up from tech commentator and columnist Peter Cohen, whose writings are found at iMore, Macworld and Tom's Guide. On this visit, Peter will talk about Tim Cook's increasing social activism in contrast to his predecessor, the usability of the iPad Pro, the prospects for an Apple Car, Apple chief designer Jonathan Ive's unfortunate "thin fetish," and whether it makes sense for Apple to move the Mac platform from Intel to Apple's own A-series chips. Yes, there are potential downsides.

View Details

We present Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who focuses on the New York Attorney General's probe into broadband Internet speeds, and whether customers are getting the performance for which they're paying. He'll also cover the concerns over bandwidth caps, and Samsung's appeal of Apple's patent win against them to the U.S. Supreme Court. You'll also hear Jeff's opinion about the iPad Pro and the joys of the Apple Pencil for creating illustrations.

You'll also hear from author and columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy." As a classical music aficionado, he praises the improvements in Apple Music by offering a richer display of information about classical. He also discusses the touchy subject of iTunes and faulty metadata and how it messes up your playlists. The discussion turns to whether Apple is releasing operating systems prematurely, thus resulting in numerous defects.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present author and columnist Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus. On the agenda is Gene and Bob's choices for broadcast mics, some of the key events in the Apple universe in 2015 and a few predictions for 2016. Bob will also present his opinions about the iPad Pro and the Smart Keyboard, and his ongoing impressions of the Apple Watch. Has the quality of Apple software nosedived? Bob will talk about that too.

You'll also hear from commentator Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes reports that Apple has suspended its efforts to set up a TV subscription service. You'll also hear Bryan's views on why large cable bundles, despite increasing cost, may be good for you. His logic is that, with more channels being offered, TV broadcasters have created a rich selection of great programing. With several dealers discounting the Apple Watch, Gene and Bryan speculate on why, whether it indicates lower-than-expected sales, or an effort to work with dealers to boost volume. Bryan will explain why he likes, but doesn't love, his Apple Watch and why he'd only buy an iPad Pro to provide more thorough coverage of the product.

View Details

We present Josh Centers, editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who discusses his new 4K TV, a 49-inch Vizio M-Series LCD, and we discuss the practical limitations of the Ultra HD format, particularly the lack of 4K programming. The discussion moves to Apple TV, his ongoing experiences with the Apple Watch, and an update his conclusion about whether he would buy one if he didn't need it for his job. There's also a brief discussion on the prospects for an Apple Car.

You'll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who talks about the iPad Pro, and why Apple is doing something that could "accidentally torpedo" the product. He also focuses on the difficulties in finding the right keyboard — he doesn't like Apple's Smart Keyboard — and his initial experiences. The discussion turns to the "do as you're told" approach to using an iPhone, and beating Apple at its "game of relentless change." John is also asked about the ongoing prospects for an Apple Car.

View Details

We present columnist Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy." He returns this week to discuss Black Friday sales, and how he recently had his Internet connection upgraded so he finally receives speeds that are appropriate to the power user (36 megabits downloads, 9 megabits uploads). He also talks about the possible failure of the Mac Pro that received a major upgrade in late 2013 and hasn't been upgraded since. Kirk has moved on to a 27-inch iMac with 5K Retina display. There will also be a brief discussion of the ongoing VW emissions scandal.

You'll also hear from Jeff Carlson, Senior Editor for TidBITS, who will offer a lengthy discussion about Apple Watch, partly in response to one tech pundit's claim, in a major newspaper, that this gadget was a turkey. Jeff will explain why he disagrees. He'll also talk about the use case of the new iPad Pro, about Tim Cook's claims that this, and an iPhone, are his only computers. Jeff also responds to the question of whether he'd buy an Apple Car, assuming one appears and the price is reasonably affordable.

View Details

We present outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, whose writings are found at iMore, Macworld and Tom's Guide, who covers a wide range of topics. He offers his expectations of the iPad Pro as compared with supposed convergence devices, which offer the functions of a tablet and a PC notebook. Apple has said it wouldn't produce such a device. Peter also talks about the ongoing reports of serious problems with recent Apple OS releases, such as iOS 9 and OS X El Capitan. Has public beta testing helped? Gene expresses his skepticism that Apple will actually build a car, something long rumored, rather than focus on user interfaces in motor vehicles. And what about Apple TV?

You'll also hear from columnist Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who also talks about the usability of the iPad Pro as a notebook replacement. He also discusses the Apple Watch and the possible security problem he discovered when he first set up two-factor authentication with Amazon. The discussion turns to the car buying experience, and Gene's concerns about the obstacles buyers confront in trying to finalize a deal. On the pop culture front, the discussion turns to Bob Dylan, and Kirk's history in becoming a fan of the folk rock legend.

View Details

We present a special appearance by Dr. Timothy C. Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm. This week, Dr. Summers talks about how to protect yourself from hackers and identity theft during the holidays. He focuses on credit card safety, how to avoid phishing emails, whether to sign up with a financial security service, why you should say "credit" instead of "debit" when using your bank debit card, the value of a "designated mailbox" and why it might be a good idea to use prepaid credit cards.

We also present Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. The discussion focuses on the iPad Pro, and whether that or other iPads are suitable as possible PC replacements. We'll also talk about Apple product proliferation, and the possibilities for an Apple Car. Bryan explains that he's convinced that Apple is working on such a product, and we speculate about how the Apple Car might help overhaul the industry. Bryan also gives you an update on his Apple Watch. Has it become an indispensable gadget, or can he just return to his mechanical watch?

View Details

We present columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy." We continue our discussion of Volkswagen's ongoing problems with emissions testing and reporting, but Kirk doesn't know, yet, if his SEAT automobile, built by Volkswagen, is impacted. He also updates his first look at the Apple TV, and explains how broadband speeds are soaring in the tiny village in the UK in which he lives. He'll also talk briefly about his ongoing Apple Watch experiences.

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, whose bill of fare includes Apple Watch sales estimates for the first two quarters, where it reportedly outsold all other smartwatches, combined. He'll also talk about Amazon's new book store, which was set up in Seattle, WA, and his ongoing views about the Apple TV and the Apple Watch. The discussion closes with some pop culture talk, focusing on the new TV season and our favorite super hero shows.

View Details

We present outspoken commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes a discussion of how Apple quietly established a $25 billion enterprise business with support from IBM and Cisco, what if a forthcoming Apple Car, with autonomous driving capability, made a "very bad" decision when faced with the possibility of a potential accident? He'll also talk about the efforts by Apple and Microsoft to rethink the tablet, and why Apple may have turned its back on 4K (Ultra HD) support on the new Apple TV while the industry moves forward to support the new high-resolution technology.

You'll also hear a first look at the fourth generation Apple TV from columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Does the revised set-top box meet expectations, and what about the impact — or lack thereof — of the missing support for 4K? Did Apple make a bad move, or are they waiting for the new 4K color standards to stabilize? Kirk will also discuss the mixed reaction to OS X El Capitan. Should we take all the complaints seriously?

View Details

We present Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. The bill of fare includes an extended discussion with Gene about pop culture, with an emphasis on the new TV season in the U.S. and superhero TV shows, based on comic book characters. The discussion turns to the forthcoming Apple TV, and the lack of support for 4K. We move on to the prospects for an Apple Car, Tesla's quality control issues, and car technology.

You'll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, of USA Today and Yahoo Tech. He'll talk about the quality issues of iOS 9 and OS X El Capitan, and the discussion will also move to his concerns about the features in Photos for OS X, 4K TV prospects, the hope for more models HDR color, and, again, the lack of 4K support in the new Apple TV. Could Apple manage such an upgrade through software? We'll also cover the prospects for an Apple Car, and Tesla's quality issues that resulted in the loss of a Recommended rating from Consumer Reports magazine. Such problems included the hardware, such as rattles and squeaks, and the software.

View Details

We feature columnist Peter Cohen, whose writings are found at iMore, Macworld and Tom's Guide. During this session, Peter discusses Apple's iMac refresh, and compares Apple's all-in-one computer to the Mac Pro. Which is best for you? He also discusses his experiences with OS X El Capitan, and offers suggestions on dealing with Wi-Fi connection problems.

You'll also hear from Kyle Wiens, of iFixit. He explains the circumstances surrounding the company's decision to post a teardown of a preproduction Apple TV that they received through the Apple Developer program. As a result, Apple "fired" them and pulled their iOS app. He'll also offer information about teardowns for the new iPhones, compare them to last year's model, and explain the difficulties in repairing recent Samsung Galaxy smartphones. You'll also hear the results of iFixit's teardown of one of the new 21.5-inch iMacs, and why it's impossible to upgrade its RAM.

View Details

We are rejoined by columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who joins Gene in a discussion about the claims that the battery life of the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s may be very different depending on who supplied the chips. So if yours has a processor from TSMC, it may give you up to two hours extra battery life over the Samsung version. Apple, by the way, denies these reports. We also cover Volkswagen's emission control scandal.

You'll also hear from Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, who also focuses on car technology. We cover problems with the infotainment interfaces and voice recognition, and the possibilities of an Apple Car. Adam will also explain why he decided not to renew his Apple Music subscription after the free trial period ended, and his deep concerns over what he regards as the poorly-designed iTunes interface.

We also present a special appearance by Dr. Timothy C. Summers, President of Summers & Company, a cyber strategy and organizational design consulting firm, who is known as an "ethical hacker." He'll talk about attempts to hack car electronics, the controversial Ashley Madison break-in, and how you can protect your data from unwanted intrusions.

View Details

We present Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes the curious decision of iFixit.com to post a teardown report of a prerelease Apple TV that they received as part of Apple's developer program, which resulted in the loss of their membership. Bryan will also talk about Amazon's decision to stop carrying the Apple TV and Google Chromecast after releasing a new Fire TV set-top box. Other topics include the iPad Pro and Apple Music, where Gene explains why he has decided not to continue his membership.

You'll also hear from Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will also discuss iFixit.com's controversial move with their Apple TV. Gene will expand on his Apple Music decision, and Kirk will explain why, after suggesting he'd rather stick with an iPhone 5s, he decided to buy an iPhone 6s despite the uncomfortably larger size. Kirk and Gene also talk about the emissions problems that impact many Volkswagen's equipped with diesel engines, and whether Kirk's Seat Ibiza, a VW-built car, may be impacted.

View Details

We present Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes the XcodeGhost malware episode, which infected some copies of Apple's Xcode developer tools downloaded in China. He'll also cover the iOS 9.0.1 update, which fixed a critical installation bug and other problems, a comparison between Proactive Siri, from iOS 9, and Google Now, Apple Car skeptics, and WatchOS 2. There will also be a brief pop culture discussion that focuses on some of the new TV shows for the fall season in the U.S.

You'll also hear from Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, who will discuss whether smartphone sales have reached a saturation point in the U.S. He'll also cover the reasons for slipping tablet sales, and whether Apple's forthcoming iPad Pro will help improve the situation. The conversation also includes the lack of 4K support in the forthcoming Apple TV, the prospects for 4K TV sales this fall, whether the arrival of Windows 10 will help boost PC sales, and the growing prospects for Macs in the enterprise.

View Details

We return to a slew of newsworthy announcements and software releases from Apple. You’ll hear from Peter Cohen, whose writings are found at iMore, Macworld and Tom’s Guide. He’ll talk about the release of iOS 9, the promise of the fourth generation of Apple TV and its lack of support for 4K (Ultra HD), Tim Cook’s appearance on Stephen Colbert’s “Late Show,” and Apple’s latest appeal, this time to the U.S. Supreme Court, in the eBook antitrust case.

You’ll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who will discuss the best features of the Apple Watch operating system, watchOS 2. You’ll also hear about the things that Apple does that “some hate and few understand.” The discussion also turns to the “contrarian vision” of the fourth generation Apple TV, why the forthcoming iPad Pro is Apple’s “new guiding star,” and Amazon’s failed Fire Phone, which he regards as “too creepy for customers.”

View Details

We focus on Apple's September 9th, 2015 media event and the extensive range of product announcements. You'll learn about the new iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, and whether the new features are compelling enough. We'll also cover the new Apple TV set-top box and the new features, including its gaming potential, but why does it lack 4K? Also on the agenda is the iPad Pro, Apple Pencil. Is it maybe a little too close in concept to the Microsoft Surface 3? And what might come when or if Apple introduces a subscription TV service?

On the agenda for this discussion is Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. You'll also hear from tech columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy." Last year, Kirk returned his iPhone 6, and decided to stick with an iPhone 5s. One reason is that he prefers the 4-inch display. So are Apple's new offerings enough to tempt him, or does the lack of a smaller display remain the deal breaker?

View Details

We present Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. He'll discuss predictions about the fourth generation Apple TV. What new features can we expect? Will Apple raise the price, and what about 4K (Ultra HD) support? You'll also hear a debate about a recent report from columnist Jonny Evans, a friend of the show, who suggested Apple ought to consider making a version of OS X that'll run in a virtual machine on a Windows box for enterprise use. Would that endanger sales of high priced Macs? And what about the admission, from an Apple executive, that they are working on fixes for Apple Music problems?

You'll also hear from Avram Pitch, the Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine. He'll also discuss what might be expected from the next Apple TV. The discussion will also focus on Apple's rumored plans for a subscription TV service, and the potential pitfalls of cord-cutting. What about cable and satellite companies offering a la carte, where you pick just the channels you want? There's also an extended discussion about ad-blockers, which are designed to shield you from ads on web sites. But is there a downside — the large potential loss of income by online publishers? Avram will also briefly discuss the possibilities for a larger version of the iPad, subbed iPad Pro by the media.

View Details

We feature Michael Roy, Senior Product Marketing Manager for VMWare Fusion and Fusion Pro. He’ll talk about version 8, just released, which offers a number of new features, including support for Windows 10 and OS X El Capitan, along with an enhanced graphics engine for better game play in a Windows virtual machine.

Columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld’s “iTunes Guy,” talks briefly about the sudden departure of Apple Music director Ian Rogers, and confusing stats over the number of people still using the service weeks after it was introduced. He’ll also join Gene in speculating about what might come out of Apple’s September 9 media event, where new iPhones are expected. Will there also be the long-awaited refresh for Apple TV, and what about a recent survey, from IDC, which put Apple Watch in second place behind the Fitbit among wearables?

You’ll also hear from outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Mac Managing Editor for iMore, who will also talk at length about what might be expected at Apple’s media event. What about the fact that Apple will also stream it to Windows users? There will be a brief discussion about the positive reception to Windows 10, the prospects for a new Apple TV, possible improvements to the remote, and whether there’s an iPad Pro in our future.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode of The Tech Night Owl LIVE, we feature Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books,. During this segment, he’ll talk about making pizza and Google’s corporate reorganization that resulted in creating a holding company known as Alphabet. Adam explains why the presence of electronic stability control on newer motor vehicles was a prime reason why he purchased a new car for his 16-year-old son, and he and Gene go into an extended discussion about the sad state of auto infotainment systems. Is CarPlay the answer, and is Apple working on building its own car?

You’ll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who also discusses car infotainment systems and the prospects for an Apple Car. The discussion turns to the data breach at Ashley Madison, a site that specializes in matching up people for possible “discrete encounters.” And what about Apple Music, the prospects for a larger iPad, the iPad Pro, along with a new stylus design? There’s also a brief discussion about Apple’s “neglected” products.

View Details

We feature Jeff Carlson, Senior Editor for TidBITS, who will attempt to explain what Google's complex migration to a holding company known as Alphabet is all about. He'll also talk about Apple's replacement for iPhoto and Aperture known as Photos for OS X. There's also an iOS version. The discussion moves on to Apple Watch, where Jeff gives you a brief crash course on using Apple's fancy new smartwatch.

You'll also hear from one of our show regulars, columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will focus the main part of his discussions on Apple Music, and the various problems users have reported since the subscription music service debuted on June 30. Do the iTunes 12.2.2 and iOS 8.4.1 updates fix those problems, or are there more issues that Apple needs to resolve? Gene and Kirk also switch into pop culture mode, talking about the need for daylight savings time, remaking old TV shows as movies, such as "The Man From U.N.C.L.E." and about British and Australian actors who attempt to sound American. And vice versa.

View Details

Amid growing reports of problems with Apple Music, we present columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who focuses his discussion on possible solutions to some of those Apple Music problems. He also covers the ongoing problems with iCloud, Apple's online network, where there are occasional outages and bouts of flaky performance. Major Apple Music problems appear related to iCloud integration.

You'll also hear from blogger Jim Tanous, Editor-in-Chief of TekRevue. He'll talk about the Apple Music rollout and the recent report that some 11 million iTunes customers have signed up as of the first week of August. Jim will explain why he's unimpressed with these numbers, suggesting they should have been much larger when you consider that 800 million people have iTunes accounts. He'll also cover the ins and outs of Windows 10. He'll focus on the various changes in the Windows Start menu through the years starting with Windows 95, and on the controversial changes in Windows 8. He'll also discuss the new Edge browser that debuted in Windows 10.

View Details

We present tech commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who covers a variety of topics as usual. He focuses on the problems of writing reliable code for applications, why we need to "grow" with Apple and not against them, the important new features that make OS X El Capitan more than just a tune-up, the rumored iPad Pro, and what Apple is doing to boost iPad sales. You'll also hear John's description of a "not-so-obvious" design feature of the Apple Watch that's being overlooked.

The second half of this episode will feature Microsoft Windows 10, released this past week. Along to guide you along is Mark Spoonauer, Editor in Chief of Laptop magazine. He will discuss what went wrong with Windows 8, the most important features of Microsoft's new operating system, and even how some of those features compare to OS X El Capitan. We'll also cover what Windows 10 features need more work, and the best new PC hardware on which to run it.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present tech author Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who focuses his conversation on the disconnect between Apple's quarterly financials and Wall Street's reaction, where the stock price lost a few points. He'll also discuss the surprising decision by Jim Dalrymple, of The Loop, to "fire" Apple Music because of various and sundry problems that included the loss of 4700 songs. The discussion will also focus on the possible antitrust investigation into Apple Music, presumed Apple Watch Sales and how Josh replaced the display on his wife's iPhone 5c using an installation kit.

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who will also discuss the questionable reaction by Wall Street to Apple's record-setting financials. What about Apple Watch and iPad sales? Should Apple relent and reveal actual figures for their smartwatch? Jeff will also discuss the ongoing problems reported with Apple Music and iTunes, and Jim Dalrymple's decision to give up on Apple's subscription music service.

View Details

We feature tech commentator Peter Cohen, Mac Managing Editor for iMore, discusses published reports by a market research firm that Apple Watch sales have tanked. Can they be believed? He also talks about the 2015 iPod refresh, and the future of the product. Also on the agenda are the growing pains of Apple Music, reports of problems with iTunes 12.2, and whether the app should be terminated with extreme prejudice and replaced with something different. And what about the next Apple TV?

We also present columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," to talk about all those reported iTunes problems, particularly reports of corrupted libraries after Apple Music is set up. Is there a way to fix the problem, or must we wait for Apple's solution? Should Apple finally overhaul the app to make it easier to use? Kirk will also discuss the iPod refresh and what it all means, since the iPod is mostly considered to be yesterday's news.

View Details

We feature tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, of USA Today and Yahoo Tech, who discusses Microsoft's plans to essentially wipe away much of the Nokia acquisition with layoffs and a writedown of the full $7.2 billion dollar purchase price. Rob will also talk about the confusing DRM setup of Apple Music, patent trolls and transparency, where tech companies outline how often they've been contacted by law enforcement authorities to turn over information about some of their users.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes a brief discussion of Comic-Con 2015 in San Diego. He'll also talk about the arrival of Microsoft Office 2016 for Mac ahead of the Windows version, the decision to essentially gut its Nokia purchase, reports that Apple Watch Sales are tanking, and why they should be taken seriously. Bryan will also cover some of the ins and outs of Apple Music.

View Details

We feature an extended discussion of Apple Music and how it stands up to the music streaming competition. First up is columnist Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy,"who gives you a full picture of his early reactions to Apple's subscription music service. Does it make the grade, or are there problems still to be fixed? Since Kirk is a serious classical music lover, did he find Apple's setup a little wanting for people who aren't among the majority of listeners?

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who focuses the first part of the discussion on Gene's new watch. No, not an Apple Watch, but a $12.88 calendar watch that he bought at Walmart. At least it keeps time. You'll also hear Jeff's reactions to Apple Music and the reports of problems with the service and the interface. After a brief pop culture back and forth, Jeff will also talk about the next Apple TV.

View Details

We feature Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. On the agenda is his conspiracy theory about Apple Music and the brief dustup with top-selling artist Taylor Swift. You'll also hear his speculations about the next Apple TV, Apple's ongoing support for Macs and a brief discussion about whether Apple's commitment to Intel lessens the possibility of using ARM processors on the Mac.

You'll also hear from prolific tech author Joe Kissell, who will recount 11 "stupid" backup methods and why you should avoid them. The list includes Apple's Time Machine, which he says has been the source of occasional problems that require you to backup everything from scratch. He'll also present a reality check about the state of security on the Mac, with a focus on issues with Adobe Flash and Oracle's Java, and whether you should consider buying security software.

View Details

We present long-time tech writer Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who tells you about his experiences covering Apple's WWDC virtually. He offers his opinions about OS X El Capitan, and iOS 9, and why he has two Apple Watches. You'll also hear his reaction to the new MacBook, why he ended up buying a MacBook Air, and some of the expected limits of being productive on the iPad, even after Apple's promised multitasking improvements arrive.

You'll also hear columnist Peter Cohen, Mac Managing Editor for iMore, and Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," in a special joint appearance. On the agenda is a recent article from the Wall Street Journal, where the columnist suggested Apple ought to kill the Mac because it represents only a fraction of Apple's revenue. Other topics on the agenda include some of the best promised features of OS X El Capitan, including the ability to kill unwanted autoplay videos in Safari, iOS 9, and Apple Music.

View Details

We talk about the major announcements at Apple's WWDC, where operating systems were refreshed, and Apple's long-anticipated music service was announced. You'll hear about the new features of iOS 9 and OS X El Capitan. Did Apple meet customer's expectations in promising performance and reliability? What about the claims on the part of some members of the media that Apple merely copied features already available in Android and Microsoft Windows? You'll also hear the ins and outs of Apple Music and how it will compete with existing subscription music services such as Spotify.

Our guests include Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who also talks to Gene about the recent death of the noted character actor, Sir Christopher Lee, famous for horror films and his appearances in two Star Wars prequels, the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. You'll also hear from commentator Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy."

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we feature the return of cutting-edge commentator and investigative journalist Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider. This time, Daniel will talk about the differences in Apple Maps in China and the dearth of compelling new features announced for the next version of Android — M — at the recent Google I/O conference, pointing out that some of the new features were similar to ones already available in Apple’s iOS.

You’ll also hear from columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, whose bill of fare includes why Apple will be “forced” to add 4K (Ultra HD) to the next Apple TV, whether they will finally be set to “reinvigorate” the iPad,” the possibilities of the next version of OS X, which is being introduced at the WWDC, John’s experiences with his new Apple Watch, and how his new MacBook “speaks” to him.

View Details

We feature Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. The bill of fare includes Jonathan Ive's new job as Chief Design Officer. Is this the promotion it seems, or a way for him to quietly disengage from Apple? You'll also hear about Apple's ongoing problems with the antitrust compliance monitor in the eBook price fixing case, Apple's new same-day delivery system that started in San Francisco, and ongoing problems with Apple's OS updates.

You'll also hear from Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will tell you about his experiences selling used stuff on Amazon and eBay. He'll also talk about what might be forthcoming in the next Apple TV set-top box, and he and Gene will discuss their different tastes in TV programs. Hint: Kirk isn't a fan of shows about comic book heroes.

View Details

We feature Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles, who will talk about the use case for Apple Watch, and whether he would have kept his had he not been a tech editor. He’ll also talk about the prospects for the next Apple TV and whether Apple will add support for 4K TV. Do people even care about 4K and other fancy TV features? Josh will also discuss his one month as an AOL member.

You’ll also hear from tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, of USA Today and Yahoo Tech, who will cover what may be the beginning of the end for AOL, which is being acquired by Verizon. He’ll also talk about cable cord cutting, Comcast’s efforts to make the company more likable to customers, prospects for an Apple branded TV subscription service, the fight over the Patriot Act and NSA surveillance, and the arrival of EMV security on credit cards in the U.S.

View Details

We present Peter Cohen, Mac Managing Editor for iMore, who covers a number of topics, including the 30th anniversary of Apple's database program, FileMaker Pro. He'll also discuss the curious saga of MacKeeper, which advertises itself as an app that enhances OS X, the ongoing problems with OS X Yosemite, speculation about the next Apple TV and cable cord-cutting.

You'll also hear from Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who recounts his experiences in setting up and using his new Apple Watch. He'll also discuss suggestions that Apple may want to consider rebranding OS X in 2016, when iOS 10 is expected to appear. What about returning to Mac OS?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, you'll hear from Susie Ochs, Executive Editor of Macworld, who covers speculation about the next Apple TV set-top box. What features is Apple going to add? Siri support, a touch-based remote, and what about the new higher-resolution TV format, 4K (Ultra HD)? Susie also talks about her experiences as owner of an Apple Watch, and how it's become an important part of her digital lifestyle.

You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. The topics of discussion include expectations for the next Apple TV, and the key issue of cutting the cable cord. How are existing cable and satellite providers reacting to the new TV landscape, and would some sort of a la carte scheme, where you only subscribe to the channels you want, present the best solution? Jeff will also talk about the Apple Watch, and what Apple might reveal at the next WWDC, to be held from June 8-12, 2015 in San Francisco. What about the next versions of iOS and OS X?

View Details

We again offer extensive coverage about the Apple Watch, this time focusing on its usability and potential for success. We also present information on the famous iFixit teardown, featuring Kyle Wiens and Andrew Goldberg, and how the company sent its reps to Australia to get some of the first shipping units to test how easy it is to replace the battery and do other repairs.

Author and publisher Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, is a runner and one of the key uses for his Apple Watch is fitness tracking. Just how well does Apple's smartwatch fill that purpose?

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will focus his discussions on Apple Watch prospects, and some takeaways from Apple's record March quarter financials. Can something be done to boost flagging iPad sales? Will more customers come once they get around to replacing the ones they have?

View Details

There's heavy coverage of the Apple Watch, which began shipping the weekend this show was broadcast. We'll cover the sort of customers who might actually want to buy one, and provide a reality check about the crazy critical coverage from people that, for the most part, never actually used one.

First up is prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who was not the first to order an Apple Watch, but did it a few hours later and will wait a few weeks to get his. He also discusses his early feelings about the new MacBook, and how he converted his workflow from a Mac workstation to a MacBook Pro with Retina display.

You'll also hear from commentator Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will tell you about his experiences trying on an Apple Watch after he ordered two of them, and whether he regretted his decision. He'll also explain why he cancelled his order for a MacBook, and about the limits of online backups. Hint: It's all about the dreaded bandwidth cap that may come into play if you upload too much of your stuff and it exceeds your ISP's monthly allotment for you.

View Details

We present John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, with a big plate of topics. He’ll explain how his skepticism about Apple’s new MacBook was lessened after he had a chance to use one, and why it’s not a “4-year step backward.” Apple Watch is also on the agenda, as John suggests it won’t be a luxury for long. The topics of discussion also include why iPad sales are faltering, the Microsoft Surface 3 tablet, and Apple’s new association with IBM.

You’ll also hear from Kyle Wiens and Andrew Goldberg from iFixit. This time they’ll tell you about their experiences tearing down the new MacBook, the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge, and some Windows gear. Which models are easy to fix? Which models are just messy? They’ll also outline their plans to take apart the Apple Watch.

View Details

We offer extensive coverage of the Apple Watch launch. You’ll hear from Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of “Take Control of Apple TV” and other titles, who will discuss his plans to buy an Apple Watch, and about the use case for the MacBook, Apple’s fancy and super slim notebook that has just one peripheral port. He’ll also talk about a recent report in which Intel’s CEO, Brian Krzanich, used a wristband and gestures to command four robot spiders. We only wonder why Intel believes anyone cares.

You’ll also hear from outspoken commentator Kirk McElhearn, who is also known as Macworld’s “iTunes Guy,” who will recount his experiences ordering two Apple Watches online. He also wonders why Apple sold out of them so quickly, and why the new MacBook is also back-ordered. We’ll also talk about cheap wireless printing solutions, and the recent iTunes 12.1.2 update that restored the original information window.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we present outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Mac Managing Editor for iMore, who talks about a number of subjects, including Apple CEO Tim Cook’s efforts to wade into the political arena with his comments about a controversial religious freedom law in Indiana. Peter also discuss net neutrality, the lack of good Internet service in many parts of the U.S. and, of course, Apple Watch.

You’ll also hear from Larry O’Connor, CEO of Other World Computing. He’ll give you advice on choosing the proper RAM upgrade for Macs, the lifecycle of hard drives, and about the benefits of upgrading to an SSD. He’ll also give you a preview of the new 3D NAND flash technology that will greatly expand solid state drive capacity over the next few years at much lower prices.

View Details

We present Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, with a busy agenda. Gene and Jeff will share their 14 years of experience with OS X, and talk about the prospects for USB-C, the new standard that Apple is including as the sole peripheral port, aside from a headphone jack, on the forthcoming 12-inch MacBook. You’ll also hear a discussion about the dueling biographies of Steve Jobs, and whether Apple is engaging in a sort of spin control in order to sanitize the reputation of the company’s mercurial co-founder.

You’ll also hear from columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and other outlets, who will discuss the confusion and fear mongering surrounding net neutrality. He’ll also talk about Google and the value of the European Union’s “Right to be Forgotten” ruling and its impact on individual privacy. The possibility that Apple will introduce a subscription TV service along with a new Apple TV set-top box, and the implications is also on the agenda.

View Details

We cover the latest rumors about an Apple subscription TV service. How will Apple turn its service into a game-changer? We also cover the potential downsides of yet another cord-cutting scheme, such as your ISP’s bandwidth cap. Our topics also include the two-pound MacBook and Apple Watch.

Our guests include Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who also focuses on the subtleties of the luxury watch market and the prospects for an Apple Car. You’ll also hear from Kirk McElhearn, known as Macworld’s “iTunes Guy,” who wonders why Apple’s HealthKit is not yet capable of tracking a female’s menstrual cycles.

View Details

Author and publisher Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, gives you his insights about Apple’s recent media event, which featured the rollout of the Apple Watch, new Mac notebooks, and a slight price reduction for the aging Apple TV streaming set-top box. What about the new and slimmer MacBook keyboard, the use of a single USB-C port to handle your connections and charging? Did Apple maybe push the envelope a little too far, or are they showing us the wave of the future for notebook computers?

You’ll also hear from columnist John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, who explains how the new MacBook has “iPad envy,” why he’s disappointed with the present status of Apple TV, and he then covers Apple Watch. He’ll tell you why some industry observers are doubtful of its success, and why he can predict that it will succeed. And what about database apps, such as Apple’s FileMaker Pro? Are they now obsolete except for some business users?

View Details

We have a busy plate. Once again, the prospects for an Apple Car are debated, and there’s a lot more skepticism this time. We’ll also clear up some of the myths about the FCC’s recent net neutrality ruling, and we’ll also try to make sense of Apple Watch models just ahead of Apple’s official announcement. You’ll also hear about iTunes 12, iTunes Match and the possibilities for an iPad Pro. We’ll also give you some early reactions to Microsoft’s Office 2016 for Mac Preview. Is it worth the five-year wait?

Our guests include commentator Kirk McElhearn, known as Macworld’s “iTunes Guy,” and cutting-edge columnist Peter Cohen, Mac Managing Editor for iMore.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we can’t escape speculation about an Apple Car. Is this something Apple is really planning, or just a bunch of assumptions based on the decision to hire car industry executives? You’ll also hear speculation about Apple’s March 9th media event, where the final details of Apple Watch will be disclosed, along with some other possible product intros. What about the potential for a larger iPad, known as iPad Pro, and can it help jumpstart moribund sales. Topics also include the FCC’s approval of a set of rules to enforce net neutrality.

Our guests include author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, a skeptic of the possibility of an Apple Car, who also talks about his new TV show, and Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who asserts that his publication is on solid ground that Apple is really designing a motor vehicle that will be introduced several years from now.

View Details

The possibilities for an Apple car are front and center. You'll hear two distinct views on whether such a thing might happen, and the Night Owl has been skeptical. First up is Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic," who clearly doesn't believe any of it. He'll also talk about Apple Watch, the possibilities for an iPad Pro, a version with a display of 12 inches or more, and the state of the music industry and digital music.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who has a decidedly more positive view to present on an Apple motor vehicle. As someone who helped spark the current stories on whether or not Apple is working on such a product, he'll present some fascinating insights. Bryan will also talk about the promise of Apple Watch, about future proofing such a gadget, and he'll also cover Apple's approach to security. A key point, that Tim Cook says that companies such as Google regard you as the product, whereas Apple's products are the hardware and services they sell.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present tech editor Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. He'll give you his unique slant on the net neutrality debate. Hint: It's about those nasty bandwidth caps. You'll also hear his views about the potential for an Apple stylus known as Apple Pen, and how deeply Apple might want to get involved with autos. But probably not the iCar or Apple Car.

From outspoken commentator Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, you'll hear his take on Adobe Flash security problems, the recent data breach at a health insurance company, Anthem, and how to protect yourself if your identity is stolen. Avram will also discuss the Microsoft Windows 10 Technical Preview, the long tablet replacement cycles, and Apple Watch.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we feature tech commentator Kirk McElhearn, known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will discuss the singer Neal Young's Pono music player, and the claims of greatly enhanced sound that most anyone can allegedly hear. You'll also hear Kirk's experiences when he moved his site to a new host, the successful results, and the changes in iTunes 12.1.

From tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and other outlets, you'll hear a discussion about the failure of Radio Shack, which recently declared bankruptcy, the ins and outs of the FCC's new net neutrality proposal, and how a new service for cable cord cutters, Dish Network's Sling TV, fares in his ongoing tests.

View Details

Outspoken commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, explains how he got accustomed to using an iPhone 6 Plus after working with an iPhone 5s. He'll also cover Apple's amazing financials and some issues involving Microsoft, Windows 10, and other products.

From industry analyst Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, you'll hear his sage comments about Apple's results. He'll also discuss the impact of 4K or Ultra HD TV, OLED and other technologies, and why, to the consumer, most of these buzzwords may not really matter when they're buying a new set.

We'll also present news about the latest and greatest version of Rogue Amoeba's Audio Hijack app, which allows you to capture audio from almost any source on your Mac, with company CEO Paul Kafasis. All our radio shows are recorded using this app.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, cutting-edge commentator and investigative journalist Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, offers a solid reality check for those who believe Apple plans to move Macs from Intel to ARM in the near future. He'll also discuss the ongoing problems facing Google and Microsoft in delivering relevant products that actually make a profit. The discussion begins with Daniel's tale of how he first began to cover Apple, and the problems he found with press coverage about the company.

You'll also hear from commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, whose bill of fare this week includes a discussion of why some Mac experts feel OS X Yosemite quality is declining, John's ongoing search for the right high-resolution display for his Mac Pro, and why the next-generation TV project from Apple remains on hold.

View Details

Tech writer/editor Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, discusses a variety of subjects with Gene. First up is Gene's recent SSD upgrade on his aging iMac, which involved a long, annoying installation process that started with plucking the display glass from the chassis with suction cups. This leads to a wider discussion about the difficulty or impossibility of installing upgrades on most Macs, along with the recent complaints about the supposed decline in Apple software quality.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will offer a pithy response to rumors that Apple is going to soon release a 12-inch MacBook Air with a single peripheral port. He'll also cover the complaints about serious bugs with OS X Yosemite and iOS 8, and, as our resident watch expert, deliver more of his feelings about the forthcoming Apple Watch.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, outspoken commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," focuses his comments on the curious claims from some so-called audio experts that audio streamed from different types of hard drives is somehow audibly different. He'll also explain how he was used as a source of material used in the recent Storagegate class-action lawsuit, which accuses Apple of being deceptive about iPhone storage capacities, and engaging in a scheme to get you to buy iCloud storage.

We'll also present a report about the CES 2015, in Las Vegas, which featured all the latest and greatest consumer electronics goodies, from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. Jeff will cover his favorites along with his reactions to the latest 4K or Ultra HD TV sets, curved TVs, and the forthcoming 8K TVs. As usual, Apple, who never attends CES, remained the elephant in the room at many of the exhibits.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present commentator Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles. His bill of fare this week includes those annoying inconsistencies in the way apps are approved for Apple's App Store. He'll cover the future of the iPad, the ongoing success of the iPhone, and what we might expect from the next Apple TV.

You'll also hear from cutting-edge columnist Peter Cohen, Managing Editor for iMore, who focuses his discussions on the recent curious lawsuit claiming Apple is cheating customers out of usable space on iOS gear and the schemes used by some media pundits to attack Apple, such as citing false or misleading statistics about product demand and customer satisfaction. He'll also address the ongoing questions about the future success of the iPad, and what Apple might do to make it a more compelling device for productivity. And what about the future of Apple TV?

View Details

We present our 2014 year-ender featuring prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus. During this session, he'll comment on the recent fear-mongering story about Apple allegedly forcing unwanted security updates on Mac users. He'll also deliver some clever low-cost suggestions for your post-holiday tech gear shopping list.

You'll also hear from Susie Ochs, Executive Editor of Macworld, who will also talk about that story about automatic updates. She'll also discuss the quality of Apple's press coverage, whether there is really such a thing as an "Apple Tax," where you supposedly pay more for a product with the Apple label, and whether the company's quality control has suffered with the proliferation of products and services.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will discuss Amazon's pilot program, underway in New York City, to deliver your stuff in two hours, coping with ISPs and bandwidth caps, the possibilities for Apple TV, and the recently-ended iPod antitrust trial where a jury found in Apple's favor in just three hours.

You'll also hear from cutting-edge columnist Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, as he exposes false and misleading tech reporting, often about Apple. So in this segment, he'll explain that, no, Apple didn't exactly lose the top spot in education to the Google Chromebook. His revealing remarks will also include the iPod trial and the possibilities for the Apple Watch.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who explains what Steampunk is all about. No hints! He'll also hold forth on the comments Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg made in response to Tim Cook's statements that, when it comes to Facebook and Google, you are the product, and you won't want to miss Bryan comments about the forthcoming Apple Watch.

You'll also hear from tech commentator and Macworld contributor Rob Griffiths, of Many Tricks, who will discuss his recent article, "The paranoid person's guide to a complete Mac backup." He'll outline multiple "levels" of backup strategies to meet your needs, and some of this advice, using Windows backup software, may also apply to PC users.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present the irrepressible John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, who discusses why Apple may be letting a few things fall through the cracks, such as the recent late and decidedly mediocre update to the Mac mini. You'll also hear about his personal experiences with Apple Pay, his views about 4K or Ultra HD TV, and why analyst estimates of potential Apple Watch sales are just plain wrong.

We are also joined by commentator Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and other outlets, who discusses what we might expect from a future Apple TV, the possibilities of 4K TV, and the ins and outs of net neutrality. You'll also hear Rob's views about Windows 10, due in 2015, and an update on the iPod antitrust trial, still in progress when this episode is broadcast.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present prominent tech blogger Dann Berg, who discusses the potential dangers of artificial intelligence, such as those voiced by entrepreneur Elon Musk. You'll also hear Dann's views about Bitcoin, the iPhone 6, and whether sales of the new, larger iPhones are cannibalizing sales of the iPad.

You'll also hear from commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who offers his outspoken views about the complaints voiced about iTunes 12, and the controversy over iMessages, where people who switch from iPhones to other mobile platforms suddenly find their messages aren't working. He'll also discuss Apple's recent failed attempt to fund a sapphire plant in Mesa, Arizona, and the issues that have apparently slowed sales if iPads.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, prolific author and commentator Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus is in full rant mode as he presents his outspoken views about net neutrality and how Intuit has failed Mac users over the years with its Quicken financial app. He also reviews Apple's 27-inch iMac 5K, and the iPad Air 2.

You'll also hear from columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who discusses the myths and the reality of so-called high resolution music. He'll also cover the ongoing problems with iTunes 12 and detail some of the features users may not fully understand. And what about claims that Apple's quality control has slipped, especially for iCloud, OS X and iOS 8?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we welcome Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who discusses the contentious issue of net neutrality, the curious episode where the TidBITS email newsletter was bounced by some major ISPs, Apple's mistakes in dealing with the iMessage "lock" issue that impacted people who switched from iPhones to other platforms, and the good, bad and ugly issues of iTunes 12.

You'll also hear from former Macworld Editorial Director Jason Snell, who discusses the reasons the print version of the magazine folded. He'll also give you his up-to-date comments on the state of Apple and the state of Microsoft.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we welcome Kyle Wiens and Miro Djuric, from iFixit, who will present the results of teardowns of the latest iPhones, iPads, and Macs. You'll also hear some of the results of tearing apart gear running Android, and whether it's possible to fix a broken printer or a broken TV set.

Backup strategies are on the agenda as we present Mike Bombich, creator of Carbon Copy Cloner, a Mac app that makes a clone or duplicate of your hard drive. You'll hear about the differences and the app's advantages over Apple's Time Machine.

You will also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, whose bill of fare includes his perfectly awful experiences with Comcast support and why Apple makes it so difficult to upgrade most Macs. You'll also hear about WireLurker, malware that can impact both Macs and iOS, and Bryan's reactions to iTunes 12.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we welcome Susie Ochs, Executive Editor of Macworld. She'll be on hand to talk about the changes at the magazine, which include discontinuing the print version, and the Macworld|iWorld Expo, now on more or less permanent "hiatus." Susie will also bring you up to date on the latest developments at Apple Inc.

You'll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, whose bill of fare includes Tim Cook's decision to come out as gay and why it's a huge deal for civil rights, his reactions to Apple Pay, why he wonders how he lived with the small display of an iPhone 5s now that he has an iPhone 6, positive sales prospects for the iPad Air 2, and his "quintessential" review of OS X Yosemite.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we welcome columnist Dan Frakes, a former Macworld editor, who discusses the decision to discontinue the print edition of the oldest Mac magazine, and to put the Macworld / iWorld conference on "hiatus." He'll also discuss current Apple issues, such as iOS 8 and Yosemite.

You'll also hear from security expert Alain Ghiai, CEO of DigitalSafe, who focuses on smartphone safety and whether Americans should be concerned over the government's claimed right to "break down the doors" to our digital privacy. He'll also discuss the company's encrypted cloud storage system, which is based in Switzerland.

Our final segment features commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer. His bill of fare includes the possible reasons that iPad sales are flagging, the disconnected coverage of the goings on at Apple, the prospects for the Apple Watch and how it sucked the air out of the smartwatch market for this holiday season. He'll also comment briefly on Microsoft Windows 10, which is currently available as a Technical Preview.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we welcome columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will explain why he's cut back on his Facebook activities. He'll also profile iTunes 12, the OS X Yosemite-savvy version, and consider whether he should replace his relatively new Mac Pro with a 27-inch iMac with 5K Retina display.

You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who will bring you up to date on the platform wars. He'll cover the differing concepts of tablets from Apple and Android, Google's Android Lollipop and Microsoft's Windows 10 operating systems, and why he believes both companies are out of ideas. He'll also discuss why he believes Samsung, the largest maker of Google smartphones, wants to ditch Android.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV" and other titles, who will discuss the trials and tribulations of updating to iOS 8, some of the keyboard options offered for the new mobile OS, and what might come from Apple's scheduled October 16 media event.

You'll also hear from tech commentator Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today, Yahoo Tech and other outlets, who will focus his discussion on Apple's ongoing failures to communicate with customers with press announcements, and the endless complications in choosing a new wireless carrier.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," explains why he decided to return his new iPhone 6 and revert to his iPhone 5s. He also wonders whether Apple's recent highly-publicized missteps are caused by taking on too much too quickly.

You'll also hear about some real world tests of the ability to bend an iPhone 6 Plus from Jessica Hoffman, from SquareTrade, a company that provides extended warranties for a wide array of tech gear.

In the third segment, we'll be joined by Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, who delivers a preview of the next major upgrade to Windows, known as Windows 10. Why did Microsoft skip a version, and what are the most compelling new features, in addition, of course, to restoring a standard Start menu?

View Details

We present columnist Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic," who holds forth on BendGate, reports triggered by a YouTube video claiming that the iPhone 6 Plus is prone to bending. He'll also talk about Apple's failed 8.0.1 update, which was pulled shortly after being posted because it caused the new iPhones to lose a carrier connection and Touch ID support. Other topics of discussion include the media disconnect over the huge number of new features in iOS 8.

You'll also hear from commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, whose bill of fare includes Apple's reaction to the BendGate and iOS 8.0.1 issues, how you're supposed to carry those larger phones, along with the failures of Apple's preordering process. John will also discuss Apple's purchase of the Prss magazine publishing platform for iPad, and whether it should be cross-platform. Apple Pay is also on the agenda.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we cover one of Apple's most important weeks, including the introduction of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, and the launch of iOS 8. You'll also hear views about the media freakout over Apple's decision to introduce U2's latest album, "Age of Innocence," free to iTunes customers. In addition, we'll cover some of the new keyboards available for iOS 8, which add learn and swype functions, and present a first look on the iPhone 6.

The guests include prolific author/columnist Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will also discuss his views about the decision to discontinue the print version of Macworld, along with Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," whose articles continue tol appear in the online version of that publication.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, the focus is, one again, on the product announcements from Apple, expected and otherwise. You'll hear about the iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6 Plus, the Apple Watch and Apple Pay. Our guest panelists will also talk about the forthcoming demise of the print version of Macworld magazine, and the dismissal of most of their full-time editorial staff.

You'll hear from Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, Since Bryan is a watch aficionado, you'll get some special insights about the Apple Watch. He'll also tell you about what he regards as the most comfortable headphone he's ever used.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we'll focus on a very unpleasant week for Apple, in which they first had to block the ability to use brute force attacks to break in to Find My iPhone, suffered from a nearly six hour iTunes outage, and got dinged by the report that nude photos of celebrities were acquired by breaking into their iCloud accounts. Some Apple skeptics said the company was in disarray as a result, but Tim Cook announced that the problem wasn't due to a security problem with iCloud, and that the company will be more proactive in sending new warnings when an iCloud account is changed.

Along to discuss this and other topics, including the latest speculation about the iPhone 6 and an iWatch or other wearable gadget is Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer and author Jeff Carlson, Senior Editor for TidBITS.

View Details

Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Managing Editor for iMore, holds forth on the possibilities of the iPhone 6, the ins and outs of those complicated wireless carrier contracts, whether NFC networking will be available in the next iPhone — and what about the iWatch?

You'll also hear from John Uppendahl, VP Communications for Parallels, who will talk about the release of Parallels Desktop for Mac version 10, and how it allow you to run guest operating systems on your Mac — including Windows and OS X Yosemite.

Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV," tells you about his odyssey in having a defective battery in his iPhone 5 replaced by Apple. Service policies and planned obsolescence will also be discussed. And is Josh ready to consider buying an iWatch?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, you'll hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider. This week he'll continue to talk about the platform wars, but he'll also focus on the continuing demands from the tech media that Apple build cheap gear and why it doesn't make sense. You'll also hear his comments about the issues facing Google and companies building Android gear and what Microsoft has to do to solve long-standing problems. Do they all really want to be Apple?

If you are irritated by offensive web advertising, such as pop-ups and interstitials (ads that insert themselves above content on a site), you'll want to hear from Ben Williams, director of PR for Adblock Plus. He'll talk about protecting yourself from annoying online ads, and the advantages of the company's free browser add-on.

You'll also hear from Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will discuss whether you need gigabit Internet, or even 4K TVs for that matter. He'll also talk about blind tests pitting CD against higher resolution audio, what lossless audio is all about, and whether most of you can reliably hear a real difference between a CD and a compressed audio file, such as the AAC tracks Apple offers via iTunes.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Braydon Moreno, founder and CEO of ROBO 3D, a company that designs and builds moderately-priced 3D printers. He'll cover the industry's views on how to make the product mainstream, along with some of the things you can do with existing gear, such as making chess pieces and even chocolate.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, whose bill of fare covers the possibilities for Apple's rumored iWatch, bitcoin, the digital currency, Apple's environmental policies, and the philosophy behind Apple University.

From columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today and Yahoo. He'll talk about recent security scares, such as the claim that a Russian crime ring stole some 1.2 billion usernames and passwords. Are these claims to be believed? You'll also hear his views about smartwatches, including the potential for an iWatch from Apple.

View Details

We present Rob Dinuzzo, Marketing Manager for RoboForm, a password manager app, who will discuss the recent report that a Russian crime ring has somehow amassed a collection of 1.2 billion usernames and password combinations along with 500 million email addresses. How do you protect yourself and your passwords from this intrusion?

You'll also hear from Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, who will cover the state of the smartphone market, why 3D TV failed, the rise of set-top boxes, why iPad sales are flagging, the recent improvement in PC sales, and why he's not too impressed with the Apple/IBM deal.

Tech blogger Dann Berg discusses the OS X Yosemite public beta, his efforts to install the iOS 8 beta on a iPad mini, why he believes the patent laws need to be completely overhauled, and whether he'd buy an iWatch if Apple releases such a device.

View Details

We present John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, who discusses such topics as how Apple's "secret war" against Samsung is working, why Apple could get more mileage out of its "slipstream" Mac upgrades, which involve minor refreshes and more favorable pricing, why Apple is going "back to the future" to fight Google, and how the new Mac Pro can use OpenCL parallel processing to explore black holes and perform other high-end scientific computing tasks faster than ever.

You'll also hear from commentator Kirk McElhearn, Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will explain why he thinks it's time for Apple to terminate the Newsstand app with extreme prejudices, the possibility that Iliad, a French telecom company, might buy T-Mobile, why you should be cautious about installing the OS X Yosemite Public Beta, and more about the potential impact of the recent Apple/IBM marketing deal.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we talk about Apple's June quarter financials. Some pundits say the numbers were "meh," while others say they were pretty decent overall. One respected industry outlet, however, erroneously reported that Mac sales were down in the U.S., whereas Apple reported that they increased in the double-digits. So we try to separate fact from fiction. We'll also discuss the Apple/IBM marketing deal, the OS X Yosemite Public Beta, which was released to up to one million Mac users on July 24, and some of the possibilities for new gear from Apple this fall.

Our guests include Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we talk about the landmark marketing and services deal between Apple and IBM. Is this just another failed initiative between the two companies, or a venture that will not just confirm Apple's cred in the enterprise, but sell lots of iPhones and iPods? You'll also hear our fearless views about Microsoft's announced bloodletting, where 18,000 employees will be fired in the coming months, and the potential impact to the company. After the pink slips are issued, what will Microsoft do to fix what's wrong with the company?

Joining us to talk about these and other topics are: Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, and Jonny Evans, Computerworld's "Apple Holic," You'll also hear discussions about the newest member of Apple's board of directors, insights into Tim Cook's Apple, the rumored iWatch, and what we might expect when Apple releases their financials for the June 2014 quarter.

View Details

we feature Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV." Josh will talk about his favorite free email service, or at least the one he uses, along with the state of Apple TV and streaming set-top boxes, and what might be needed to bring such products to a new generation of excellence, including advanced game controllers.

We'll also present Rob Shavell, CEO of Abine (an online privacy firm), who will discuss Facebook's new tracking policy and why they continue to keep tabs on you even if you have all the privacy settings switched on.

You'll also hear from author/columnist Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will talk about the state of the Mac and about his reactions to the prerelease versions of iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite. And, yes, he's working on "Dummies" books about both.

View Details

Our guest list includes blogger and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will explain why two times are a charm with his new Mac Pro. He'll also discuss Apple's curious way of managing some iCloud email spam, and the hoops you have to jump through to fix false positives. The bill of fare also includes cloud storage solutions, and alternatives to Dropbox.

You'll also hear from tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today and Yahoo. He'll talk about the failure of Aereo, a TV delivery service that claimed not to be cable, before the U.S. Supreme Court, Android L, the forthcoming version of Google's mobile platform, and why T-Mobile was accused by the FTC of hundreds of millions of dollars in overcharges for extra SMS services and other features that customers may not have known they had.

View Details

We present prolific tech author Joe Kissell, author of "Take Control of Automating Your Mac," who will give you some useful suggestions on how to perform complex tasks with just one or two keystrokes. He'll also give you advice on how to choose the right broadband provider, and whether one of those multiple service bundles make any sense.

You'll also hear from Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, who will give you his early opinions about Amazon's forthcoming Fire Phone smartphone, and details some of the key features of Android L, the forthcoming version of Google's mobile OS. So is Amazon's first mobile handset a winner? What about the first major Android update in recent years?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: We present commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, who holds forth on such topics as the disconnect between what happened at the Apple WWDC and how some journalists interpreted the event. He'll also cover the hit piece about Tim Cook, which masqueraded as a balanced story, in The New York Times, why the iPhone is Apple's new hardware platform, and what happens if you buy the wrong PC.

You'll also hear from Computerworld's "Apple Holic," Jonny Evans, who will cover some of the features in Apple's OS X Yosemite that you didn't know about. He'll also explain why a number of Mac users, with computers otherwise compatible with Yosemite, may not be able to use the tentpole Handoff feature. This is part of Continuity, which enables you to, for example, start a document or email on a Mac, and pick up where you left off on an iPhone or iPad. He'll also discuss Gene's suggestions about a possible Google conspiracy theory, and Apple's recent purchase of Beats Electronics.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Managing Editor for iMore, focuses on the media misconceptions about Apple's WWDC, which focused solely on software rather than fancy new gadgets. You'll also hear about his reactions to Apple's HealthKit feature for iOS 8, and about Microsoft's misguided advertising campaign for the Surface 3 tablet.

You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will also cover HealthKit, and how the features introduced for iOS 8 at the WWDC might pave the way for the rumored iWatch. Bryan will also explain Apple is actually obeying tax laws despite holding billions of dollars overseas that aren't subject to U.S. corporate income tax. Will Congress approve a "tax holiday" to repatriate such cash hoards? What about the European Commission's investigation of possible tax sheltering by some companies who use Ireland as an international corporate location?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: Apple's Wordwide Developers Conference (WWDC) didn't deliver news of any new gadgets, but there was a wealth of information about the forthcoming versions of OS X, dubbed Yosemite, and iOS 8. In addition to the new look of OS X, there are literally hundreds of new features to discuss, but this week's episode will focus primarily on the highlights, such as iCloud Drive, the new Continuity feature, updated instant messaging capability, and Apple's move to reduce reliance on Google and such third party services as Dropbox. We'll also briefly cover some of the enhancements that are making developers drool.

Joining us this week is an expert panel that includes author, blogger and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy, and Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV."

View Details

Commentator Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, discusses the Apple/Beats deal, offers predictions for product intros at the WWDC going beyond iOS 8 and OS 10.10, and his reactions to Microsoft's Surface 3 tablet/laptop or whatever it is.

CNET's Cheapskate blogger, Rick Broida, tells you how you can save money with a low-cost wireless carrier, and some of the pitfalls to watch in picking the best service for your needs.

You'll also hear from author/columnist Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who, as a musician, gives you his unique viewpoint about Apple's purchase of Beats Electronics. He'll also focus on the rumors about the introduction of app technologies for the connected home at the WWDC.

View Details

You'll hear about the impact of the proposed AT&T/DirecTV merger from Dorothy Pomerantz of Forbes. Is this proposed deal good for consumers, or just a way for large companies to increase dominance?

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, joins us to talk about the ongoing mobile platform wars, the essence of the deal between Apple and Google to call off their patent lawsuits against each other, and the prospects for the success of Microsoft's new notebook replacement, the Surface 3.

Tech writer Rob Pegoraro, a columnist for USA Today and Yahoo!, offers his reactions to the mergers of Comcast and Time Warner, AT&T and DirecTV, and whether the latest net neutrality proposal from the FCC makes any sense. He'll also talk about Apple's "never mind" patent litigation settlement with Google, and about the "right to be forgotten," involving Google and the European Union, and whether you can get a search engine to delete unfavorable links about you.

View Details

We feature outspoken commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will discuss the rumors and possible reality of Apple's acquisition of Beats Audio, a company that sells high-end headphones and speakers and has a widely-acclaimed streaming music service. He'll also talk about so-called HD audio and whether the difference makes a difference in what you can hear.

We'll also be joined by Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will present his views about the possible Apple/Beats deal. How does it benefit Apple — or does it? Bryan will also talk about those "crazy" iPhone 6 rumors, the prospects for an iWatch, and Samsung's notorious history of copying original technology from other companies.

View Details

We feature Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV." who will discuss what we might expect from the forthcoming Apple developer event, WWDC, where new versions of OS X and iOS are expected to be unveiled. You'll also hear his early reactions to the Amazon Fire TV set-top box, and the foolish move by Amazon to remove in-app purchases from ComiXology, the comic book reading app.

Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen. Managing Editor for iMore, holds forth on what possible new features in the next versions of OS X and iOS, which are reportedly going to be demonstrated at the WWDC beginning June 2. We'll also discuss what features ought to change, particularly with Apple Mail, which had a shaky rollout in OS X Mavericks.

View Details

We feature Ryan Rosenberg, a VP for Apple's FileMaker division, who will give you some savvy tips on starting to make the paperless revolution really happen at your home or office.

Outspoken commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, gives you a whole plate of opinions this week. He'll give you a reality check on the recent drop in iPad sales, explain why professionals go nuts over Apple's "mid-course" corrections, present the reasons why Apple shouldn't try to copy Google Glass, along with his views about the TV set-top box wars, and what real 4K TV streaming is all about.

Tech columnist Dann Berg holds forth on Apple's Mac price cuts, including the latest MacBook Air, whether Apple's recent financial moves to increase buybacks and do a 7-to-1 stock split are smoke and mirrors to hide the lack of new products, or just smart business. You'll also hear about Dann's expectations for an iWatch, and the next versions of iOS and OS X.

View Details

Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, speaks about the 24th anniversary of his online publication. He'll explain how he and his wife and business partner, Tanya Engst, established the publication and how its development followed the development of the web. He'll also offer a few choice insights into Apple's history over the years, and he'll explain how he entered the fledgling eBook business with Take Control Books. You'll also hear from Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, with insights on Apple's unexpectedly high quarterly financials, along with the reasons why the lower iPad sales aren't quite as low as they seem at first glance. He also gives a reality check on Android tablet sales, the ongoing problems with Microsoft's mobile platform, now enhanced with the acquisition of Nokia's handset and devices division, and his expectations for the rumored iWatch.

View Details

We present Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who will discuss the ins and outs of the "Heartbleed" bug, affecting some versions of the open source OpenSSL, which impacted a huge portion of the Internet, the magazine's first review of the Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphone, and a number of Microsoft-related matters, including Office for the iPad and the forthcoming Windows Phone 8.1 update. Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Managing Editor for iMore, gives you his slant on the "Heartbleed" issue and the new products that might come from Apple during June's WWDC conference. He will talk about some of the changes you might expect in the next versions of IOS and OS X along with the possibilities for an iWatch.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: We welcome Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV." whose bill of fare includes the arrival of Microsoft Office for the iPad, the panel on the NSA he moderated for the recent iWorld/Macworld Expo, the ongoing legal skirmishes involving Apple and Samsung, and his early reactions to the Amazon Fire set top box. The new gadget competes with Apple TV and Roku. You'll also hear from outspoken commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will talk about his struggles with satellite broadband Internet. He'll also discuss why buying expensive audio and video cables isn't worth the money and the eternal analog (vinyl) versus digital debate.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: CNET's very own Cheapskate blogger, Rick Broida, explains why he ditched Office 2013 for Windows, and why he was forced to find an unofficial method online to remove the suite from his PC. You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, explains in exquisite detail why the media meme that the iPhone 5c is a huge failure is wrong. He'll also address what he perceives as the ongoing media bias against Apple. We'll also present tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, a columnist for USA Today and Yahoo!, who will discuss Microsoft's not-surprising decision to release Office for the iPad, the ongoing issues of net neutrality, and why he doesn't believe Sprint and T-Mobile will ever merge.

View Details

outspoken commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," discusses our curious download problem, which may be a consequence of the failure of the FCC to develop a workable plan to enforce net neutrality. Kirk will also talk about the joys of mono sound. We also welcome author Jeff Carlson, Senior Editor for TidBITS, who will cover the controversy over a new book, "Haunted Empire: Apple After Steve Jobs," which paints a predictably negative picture of the company's prospects for success under Tim Cook. He also discusses a recent extensive interview with Apple design chief Sir Jonathan Ive that was published in the UK's Sunday Times and Time magazine.

View Details

Tech columnist and commentator Dann Berg holds forth on such issues as the iOS 7 update, Microsoft's reported decision to supply Windows Phone free to some low-end handset makers, and how he succeeded in cutting the cable TV cord. You'll also hear from columnist Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will also talk about cord cutting, the iOS 7 update, Microsoft's lower Windows licensing costs for cheap PCs and free licensing for cheap mobile handsets, and how this will be the year that defines Apple CEO Tim Cook. We also present Lloyd Klarke, director of product management for Roku, who will discuss the history of the company and the current lineup of video streaming products and services.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, gives you the ins and outs of the controversial SSL verification security bug that turned up in iOS and OS X. He covers the curious belief on the part of some media pundits that one company buying another is innovation. He'll also respond to the comment from the head of Google's Android division that appears to indicate the company is more interested in freedom than making the OS more secure. You'll also hear from Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, whose bill of fare includes Apple's SSL bug fix, comparing Apple's innovation to other companies, the U.S. House's cellphone unlocking bill, Apple's appeal of an antitrust verdict over eBook price fixing, and the drive for patent troll reform in the European Union.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: Author and columnist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," talks about the growing popularity of streaming TV, mentions some of his favorite shows, and speculates on what constitutes a new product category for Apple. IT specialist Dave Charbonneau, president of CMIT Solutions, discusses Microsoft's dilemma in convincing users to give up Windows XP, and offers some common sense tips on preparing to upgrade — or replace — a PC. Outspoken commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, talks about the ideal screen sizes for the next iPhone, Facebook's expensive acquisition of WhatsApp, an instant messaging app with hundreds of millions of users, and what new product categories Apple might enter this year.

View Details

We present Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, and author of "Take Control of Apple TV." You'll learn the ins and outs about Apple's best-selling TV set top box, along with some nifty tips you may want to try. Josh will also speculate on what might come next as Apple attempts to make a difference in your living room. You'll also hear from Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine. He'll talk about Microsoft's problems getting users to leave Windows XP, and he'll also focus on a recent article he wrote for Laptop, entitled "Glasshole or Not? 7 Urgent Ethical Dilemmas for Wearable Tech."

View Details

The discussions cover a wide range of subjects. You'll hear our reaction to Google's decision to sell the Motorola Mobility handset division to Lenovo, an Asian PC maker, the state of the PC industry in light of Sony's decision to leave the PC box business, Microsoft's new CEO, Satya Nadella, and whether having co-founder Bill Gates looking over his shoulder will help or hurt his performance, and the prospects for an iWatch and an Apple connected TV. Our guests this week include industry analyst Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group and outspoken columnist Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: We introduce Charles Tendell, a Certified Ethical Hacker and co-host of the Computer America radio show. Charles will give you insights on the huge security break-in at Target, Neiman Marcus and other retailers, where the raw details of tens of millions of credit and debit cards were stolen by online criminals. He'll also talk about Bitcoin, the online digital currency, and security issues impacting Mac and Windows PCs. We are also joined by John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, who will focus his conversation on Google's decision to sell its Motorola Mobility handset division, at fire sale prices, to Lenono, the large Asian PC maker. You'll also hear him explain why Wall Street doesn't understand Tim Cook, the future of the Mac, and an illuminating encounter with a disappointed Microsoft Surface RT customer.

View Details

We are joined by fearless author and publisher Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, who discusses the Mac's 30th anniversary, a court decision to overturn the FCC's net neutrality order, and the ongoing conflict between Apple and the government over that eBook price fixing case. You'll also hear from tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, a columnist for USA Today and Yahoo!, who also discusses the Mac's 30th anniversary, the prospects for the new TV standard, Ultra HD, Microsoft's earnings report, which featured higher sales for the Xbox One and the Surface tablets, and the ongoing net neutrality issues.

View Details

We feature Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who talks about the tricky subject of net neutrality and the recent decision to overturn an FCC action enforcing that measure. Jeff will also discuss the purchase of Nest Labs, founded by iPod creator Tony Fadell, by Google, and some of the curious contraptions on display at the CES. You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, who will also cover the purchase of Nest Labs by Google, those two contradictory surveys of U.S. Mac sales in the last quarter from Gartner and IDC, and the ongoing and so-far unsuccessful search for a new CEO at Microsoft.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: We feature Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, who provides some color direct from the publication's on-scene presence at the Consumer Electronics Show. He'll talk about some of the wacky products being introduced, such as an attachment that allows a paper airplane to become a tiny remote controlled aircraft. He also comment on the value of the new high resolution TV standard dubbed Ultra HD. Back this week is author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who talks about products, introduced at the CES, which he would never consider buying. He also discusses the forthcoming 30th anniversary of the Apple Macintosh, and about some of the company's notable screw-ups over the years, including online services, such as iCloud and its predecessors.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: We feature outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Managing Editor for iMore, who speaks on the state of the tech industry in 2013 and 2014, with an emphasis on Apple. Inc. He'll discuss the prospects for 4K or Ultra HD, and whether Apple will consider building a TV set or a smartwatch for release later this year. You'll also hear from author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who will describe his experiences dealing with satellite-based Internet at his new home in the UK. He'll also give you the down and dirty details about his experiences comparing iOS and Android as the owner of a Moto G smartphone. He'll also talk about the value of the Mac Pro, and whether you really have to pay that alleged "Apple Tax" to buy one.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: We feature tech columnist and commentator Dann Berg, who will give us an overview of developments in the tech field in 2013 and do some speculation on what might happen in 2014. He cover such topics as the possibility that American wireless carriers Sprint and T-Mobile might merge, the prospects for the new TV format, Ultra HD, also known as 4K, whether Apple might introduce a connected TV set, and the possibilities for a wearable device such as an iWatch. You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who explores the fact that the brand new 2013 Mac Pro is a lot cheaper than even do-it-yourself Windows PC workstations. He'll also focus on the possibilities for Ultra HD, and the fact that, this year, the iOS had five times as many users doing online Christmas shopping as Android in the U.S., according to an IBM survey.

View Details

Our featured guests include Jeff Gamet, Managing Editor for The Mac Observer, who will cover the rollout of the 2013 Mac Pro workstation, whether it's easy to make your Mac's Web cam turn on without displaying a green light, the prospects for Ultra HD or 4K TV, and whether Apple will really introduce an iWatch. You'll also hear from Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who also covers the push towards Ultra HD TV, along with the magazine's survey of the "Top 10 Tech Fails 2013," and the mobile gear that delivers the best battery life. He also talk briefly about accessory keyboards for the iPad Air.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode: Our featured guests include noted editor and commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, who will focus on some of those silly media stories about Apple, such as chronic misunderstandings of the reason for Microsoft's $150 million 1997 investment, and one analyst's statement that Apple and Microsoft might merge. He also covers the future possibilities for the Apple TV and the rumored iWatch. You'll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer and a columnist for The Street, who will discuss that silly Apple/Microsoft merger theory, why the iPad Air is a "whole new experience," the possibilities for a 13-inch iPad and new tablet markets, and why Tim Cook doesn't have to entertain you. He'll also deliver a few of his fearless predictions for Apple in 2014.

View Details

Our featured guests include prolific tech author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will give you his opinions about the highly successful OS X Mavericks upgrade. You'll also hear tips and tricks on getting the most from Mavericks and also iOS 7. You'll discover a technology that might save traditional AM and FM radio in the U.S., known as HD Radio. We've brought HD Radio's Rick Greenhut to explain the shortcomings of existing radio broadcasting techniques, and how HD Radio embeds a digital signal to deliver crystal clear sound. We'll also feature one of our favorite guests with an attitude, Rik Myslewski, Managing Editor for The Register, a UK-based "snarky" tech publication, who will cover such issues as the recent decision of the U.S. House to approve a law that will put serious controls on so-called patent trolls. He'll also talk about Apple's chip advantage with the 64-bit A7, and the prospects for a larger iPad, with a 12.9-inch display, which some are calling the iPad Pro. Will it be Apple's answer to the so-called convertible notebook that combines a touchscreen with a traditional form factor.

View Details

Our featured guests include author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," talks about his search for fast broadband Internet to service his new home, a converted barn in rural England, why he's irked by live blogging of TV shows, and the ins and outs of his decision as an iPhone user to acquire a low-cost Android smartphone from Motorola. You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, on such topics as the potential qualifications of two potential final candidates to replace Steve Ballmer as Microsoft CEO, and the different business plans of such companies as Google, Microsoft and Apple. So, for example, Google turns you into the product by recording your online behavior and delivering up appropriate target ads, whereas Apple's products are the hardware, software and services they sell. He also discusses whether Apple still needs to consider offering a cheaper iPhone.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, explains how Google sidestepped security settings on Apple's Safari to track you, and the secrets of how companies who build "smart" TVs, such as LG, may be recording how you use you set, including the stations you watch. We also hear from tech commentator Dann Berg, who covers the Apple/Samsung legal skirmish, using so-called "thin client" mobile gear and personal computers, which access all your stuff from the cloud, and how Microsoft's new Xbox One may be beating Apple in conquering the living room.

View Details

The first segment features author and publisher Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, who discusses some of the known problems with the first release of OS X Mavericks, lingering issues with OS X Mail, and possible email app alternatives. He also talks about the tenth anniversary of the eBook publishing company. We also hear from outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, Managing Editor for iMore, who discusses the ongoing problems with OS X Mavericks, the growing move towards apps in the cloud, such as the new iWork suite, Microsoft Live 365, and the Adobe Creative Cloud, and he also offers his views about the sometimes controversial iOS 7 upgrade.

View Details

We feature Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who discusses who might become the next CEO of Microsoft, Apple's recent disclosure of requests from governments for customer information, Tim Cook's Wall Street Journal column supporting a law barring discrimination of gays in the workplace, the possible implications of Apple's new sapphire construction plant in Arizona, and bitcoin. Bitcoin is a digital currency that might, in part, replace traditional money systems. Tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today and other publications, also weighs in on the Microsoft CEO succession issue. He'll discuss the recent Mail for Mavericks upgrade, which fixed problems with Gmail and other issues, and evaluate other free email systems, such as Outlook.com and Yahoo! Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," also talks about the Mail for Mavericks issues, the controversial iWork upgrade, where critical features were removed, and his early reactions to his new iPad Air.

View Details

Outspoken commentator John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, covers Apple's growing investments in R&D, why Microsoft's strategy for the Surface tablet will flop this holiday season, the real reason Apple is giving away the OS and consumer apps, why Apple is ill-serving customers who have lots of data to back up, and the company's vision for the forthcoming Mac Pro overhaul. From Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, you'll get his fearless comments about Apple's latest financial statement, the Night Owl's decision to move from Gmail to Microsoft's Outlook.com, and the positives and possible negatives discovered in OS X Mavericks and iOS 7.

View Details

Author Ben Klaiber reveals the powerful business lessons behind Apple's resurgence in the new book, "Anatomy of an Apple — The Lessons Steve Taught Us," and offers his insights on Apple's latest strategic moves. He has posted some informative and entertaining book excerpts at anatomyofanapple.com. Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," tells you why he's happy that OS X Mavericks, iLife and iWork are now free, and gives you his initial reactions to Apple's new OS. You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who attended Apple's media rollout of the new iPads and refreshed MacBook pros with Retina display. He'll offer his reaction to Apple's decision to distribute key software free of charge, the impact on Microsoft, and the ongoing problems with Google's Android platform.

View Details

To observe National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we talk to Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba, a noted cybersecurity consultant who speaks about a number of serious hacking threats that might impact more and more consumers. Prolific author Joe Kissell talks about his latest eBook, "Take Control of Upgrading to Mavericks," and you discover the best ways to upgrade to Apple's newest version of OS X. We also present a provocative discussion with Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, who explains what's good and not-so-good about Windows 8.1 and the problems facing the Windows Phone and Android platforms. Is Google submitting Android to a dose of benign neglect? And what will Apple introduce at their October 22nd media event?

View Details

We discuss what Apple might introduce when the next generation of iPads is unleashed later this month. Will the 9.7-inch model be slimmer and lighter? What about adding a Retina display to the iPad mini? You'll also learn more about iOS 7, the future of Apple TV, Microsoft's prospects with the Nokia handset acquisition and Windows Phone, the tragic fate of BlackBerry, and a whole lot more. Our guest list this week represent The Loop: Jim Dalrymple, the Founder and Editor in Chief, and Peter Cohen, the Executive Editor. Peter also represents iMore.

View Details

John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, has a laundry list of things to talk about. On the agenda is why iOS 7's Frequent Locations feature is a turn-off, the need for an iPad with a larger display, perhaps 12 or 13 inches, why he prefers to rent movies from iTunes and nowhere else, and the foolishness of Microsoft's decision to be late to the party with tablets. You'll also hear from Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, who will mainly cover the ongoing problems with iOS 7's Settings app. He'll take it apart and explain what works, and what's simply confusing. He'll also talk about the reports of possible motion sickness because of the parallax and zooming effects in Apple's newest mobile OS.

View Details

Kyle Wiens, from iFixit, will tell you all about his company's tear-down of the iPhone 5c and iPhone 5s, and you'll learn what it's made of, and how difficult it is for you to service it yourself. You'll also get a comparison with other smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S4 and the HTC One. Once again, we'll present cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, again reveals some of the "bozo" comments from the tech media about why they regard record sales for the new iPhones as bad news. Yes, I'm serious; that's what they've been saying. You'll also hear from Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will talk about the new iPhones, and the incredibly popular iOS 7 upgrade.

View Details

The irrepressible Rik Myslewski, Managing Editor for The Register, a UK-based "snarky" tech publication, and a long-time observer of Apple Inc., discusses the advances in the iPhone 5s, including 64-bit support, plus state-of-the-art developments in the chip industry. You'll also hear from Dann Berg, Reviews Editor for The Verge, who will consider the recent efforts by Google and Microsoft to deliver a vertical solution to building new gear that is similar to Apple's. So we have Google's purchase of Motorola Mobility in 2011, and the recent announcement that Microsoft was acquiring the mobile handset division of Nokia. He'll also give you his early reactions to iOS 7, the major upgrade to Apple's mobile OS.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, dissects the media and financial community's disconnect with Apple's real achievements in announcing the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5c. You'll discover the ins and outs of fonts and font management with Leith Speights, U.S. Sales Director for Insider Software. Tech columnist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today and other publications, also looks at Apple's iPhone announcements and their impact. He'll argue in favor of putting NFC on the iPhone, and will also discuss the prospects for Samsung's Galaxy Gear smartwatch, and how the Apple TV set top box might evolve.

View Details

We cover the new Samsung Galaxy Gear smartwatch. Is this a keeper, or another pathetic attempt to jumpstart a market that has yet to show potential? We'll also cover the possibly desperate decision of Microsoft to acquire Nokia's handset division. Will this move help the failing Windows Phone mobile OS gain a decent share of the smartphone market? Along to talk discuss these issues are Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, who will also talk about a compelling eBook his company just published, entitled "Take Control of Your Online Privacy." We'll also be joined by Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn.

View Details

Josh Centers, Managing Editor for TidBITS, discusses in detail Steve Ballmer's decision to step down as Microsoft CEO within the next 12 months. He'll also cover the possibilities for Apple TV, whether it will be part an effort by Apple to create a new gaming platform, and whether there is an Apple TV set in our future. Outspoken commentator Bryan Chaffin, Co-Founder and Co-Publisher of The Mac Observer, gives you his reaction to Steve Ballmer's departure from Microsoft. He'll also cover the latest rumors about the iPhone 5S and 5C — the alleged low-cost plastic model — and reports of scratch tests to see how the cheaper iPhone fares under use and abuse. You'll also hear Bryan's reactions to the continuing developments in the Department of Justice's antitrust case against Apple over eBook price fixing. Are the proposed DOJ and judicial remedies against Apple too stringent?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, commentator John Martellaro,Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, gives you his vision for a souped up Apple TV, and an Apple smart TV set. He'll also explain why the passing of Steve Jobs signifies Apple's rebirth, why NFC will never appear on an iPhone, and why, in the Post-PC era, OS X and iOS should evolve differently. You'll also hear from Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, on ways to make Windows 8 more like Windows 7. He'll also discuss his recent blog, entitled The Ten Best Bargains in Tech Today. And, no, the list definitely does not include the $35 Google Chromecast.

View Details

We feature Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, who will discuss a peculiar Mail bug in Mountain Lion that may cause your email to be sent from the wrong account. He'll also tackle the Apple ID conundrum, where you still cannot merge two or more IDs regardless of the reason. Up next is outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, from The Loop, and iMore, who will talk about the recent announcement that billionaire investor Carl Icahn had invested in Apple, what might come from Apple's iPhone announcement, which is expected on September 10, the ins and outs and potential of the forthcoming OS X Mavericks and the promise of iOS 7.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, author and publisher Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, updates his "Apple in the hot seat" discussion. First he recaps Apple's recent loss in a Federal eBook price-fixing trial, and then comments about the U.S. Department of Justice's draconian demands for remedies. He also discusses Apple's last-minute victory before the ITC, where President Obama vetoed a ruling that would have banned the iPhone 4 and some older iPads from being sold. From The Mac Observer, you'll hear from co-founder and co-publisher Bryan Chaffin. He'll also talk about the Apple eBook price-fixing trial, and the DOJ's demands, along with the veto of the ITC's import ban. He'll also cover the ongoing changes and what's improved as development of iOS 7 continues. And don't look now, but there may also be a surprise visit from "The Fake Steve Ballmer." You'll learn about the next version of QuarkXPress, version 10, from Gavin Drake, VP of Marketing for Quark, Inc.

View Details

Cutting edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, once again takes on one of his favorite topics, the platform wars. This time he exposes the false report that Samsung's mobile handset profits exceeded those of Apple's iPhone, and the curious claims of declining iPad market share in the wake of reports that 84% of the tablets going online are — iPads. You'll also hear from tech journalist Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, who will also offer his usual direct comment on the platform wars involving Apple versus Samsung/Google and Microsoft, along with the various predictions about future Apple products. In addition, industry analyst Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, will discuss Microsoft's problems selling Surface tablets, the prospects for Google's Chromecast, and the possible future of 4K or Ultra HD TV.

View Details

We feature outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, from The Loop, and iMore, who talks about the media's inability to understand Apple. He also provides some important observations about Apple's 3rd quarter financials. Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, discusses his latest book "Take Control of Launchbar," which covers the ins and outs of a popular OS X utility designed to make you more productive. He'll also discuss Microsoft's ongoing problems in light of having to take a $900 million write-down because of loads of unsold Surface tablets. You'll learn about the causes of data loss on iPhones, iPads, Android gear, and Macs and PCs, from a data recovery and cellphone/laptop forensics expert, Russell Chozick of Flashback Data. He also give you advice on what to do if the worse should happen.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, Macworld Senior Editor Dan Frakes joins us to focus primarily on the pros and cons of the forthcoming 2013 Mac Pro, and how his vision of a midrange minitower Mac compares. We'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, discusses the unexpected success of Apple's "hobby," the Apple TV, which is the top selling streaming video player. He also continues his ongoing exploration of the platform wars involving Apple, Google and Microsoft. John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, talks about Microsoft's ongoing problems with lower-than-expected earnings and the decision to take a $900 million write-down on the unsuccessful Surface tablet. He will also comment on whether the passion for Apple gear is less than it used to be, and about those who continue to clamor for Apple's next big thing.

View Details

We focus a large part of the episode on Apple's skirmish with the U.S. Department of Justice over alleged eBook price fixing. Federal District Court Judge Denise L. Cote has found Apple guilty; Apple plans to appeal. But was this decision fair? What about Amazon, and why wasn't that company's actions to set very low eBook prices considered by antitrust officials? We have two points of view on this case, from Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer. Bryan will also discuss Microsoft's latest version of corporate musical chairs, and whether it will help the company regroup and solve key long-term problems. He'll also go over the key points of an article claiming that there are 25 reasons why the iPhone is old fashioned.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech commentator Kirk McElhearn, also known as Macworld's "iTunes Guy," discusses the promise of iTunes radio, which will arrive this fall with the next OS X upgrade. He also offers his reaction to what he regards as the questionable color choices Apple made for iOS 7. From Laptop magazine, Online Editorial Director Avram Piltch discusses a recent report about a security problem that might impact hundreds of millions of users of Android gear. He also offers a list of the problems Microsoft failed to fix in Windows 8.1. Is Windows 8 a descendant of Microsoft's failed "Bob" user interface, which appeared back in 1995?

View Details

Commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, discusses the decision of Barnes & Noble to stop building Nook tablets, the crazy rise and fall of Apple's stock, and the double-standard tech and Wall Street analysts use when they cover Apple Inc. Veteran tech author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus admits defeat because OS 10.9 didn't use the code name "Bobcat," not made seriously of course. He'll also offer his reaction to OS X Mavericks, and to the promise of the next Mac Pro, Apple's tubular workstation, which is expected to be released some time this fall. On the security front, Gabriel Weinberg, founder and CEO of DuckDuckGo.com, details his company's "anonymous" search engine, which respects your privacy and doesn't track your search requests. Tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, who writes a weekly column for USA Today, reviews Republic Wireless, a prepaid cellular service that switches between Wi-Fi and a traditional wireless network to offer unlimited text, voice and data for $19 per month. He'll also cover efforts by tech companies to push back against NSA surveillance and FISA gag orders, and the prospects for the next TV standard, 4K, or Ultra HD, to succeed in a highly saturated market.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, continues his discussions about the iOS, Android, Windows Phone platform wars with an emphasis on the unexpected defects discovered in Google's Nexus 7 tablet and why customers aren't interested in paying for Android software. He'll also cover some of Apple's WWDC announcements, such as the forthcoming cylindrical Mac Pro. On the security front, you'll hear from online privacy advocate Mark Weinstein, founder of Sgrouples.com, who will deliver the frightening news about what social networks, and the government, may know about your online activities and how to protect your privacy. Tech journalist Dann Berg will discuss his recent article for Laptop magazine describing "Eight Tools for Online Privacy." He'll also give you his reactions to key WWDC announcements from Apple, such as the Mac Pro, iOS 7, and OS X Mavericks. Hint: He's not crazy about the new naming scheme for OS X.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, commentator Adam Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, begins our coverage of Apple's WWDC keynote, and the announcements about new versions of iOS and OS X, not to mention the revolutionary take on the Mac Pro workstation. Kyle Wiens, from iFixit, reports on results of the company's teardown of the 2013 versions of Apple's Airport Extreme, Time Capsule, and MacBook Air. He also covers the repairability of other tech gear. We visit the UK, virtually speaking, for a session with Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," and the editor of Mac OS X Hints, who reports on the launch of iTunes Radio and his reactions to the WWDC. This episode also features Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who presents his take on a surprise "special guest," along with his observations on Apple's WWDC, the forthcoming iOS and OS X updates, and the latest and greatest Mac hardware.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, will discuss the recent appearance of Apple CEO Tim Cook at an AllThingsD event, and what he calls "Cook Code." He'll also talk about the tragic state of iPad magazines, operations research and tech warfare, and deliver an iPhone veteran's review of the Samsung Galaxy Note II "phablet." If you're in the market for a car, you'll want to hear from Dennis Miller, Founder and CEO of SNAFU Scan, an iOS and Android app that helps you check whether your car has been recalled by the manufacturer, and the ability to examine used car auction prices to see if your dealer is ripping you off on a trade. In our third segment, Joe Wilcox, Managing Editor of BetaNews, talks about his recent decision to move his wireless service from AT&T to T-Mobile, and proceeds to discuss what we might expect to see in Microsoft's Windows 8.1 update, and whether it can address some of the concerns about the original Windows 8 release.

View Details

Veteran tech author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, discusses the plans for Google to bring their gigabit Internet service to his Austin, TX home, the news, or lack thereof, from Tim Cook's interview before an AllThingsD conference, and some new gear he's recently reviewed, including a waterproof speaker system. You'll also hear from Laptop magazine Staff Writer Daniel Berg, who will list eight important questions that weren't asked of Tim Cook during his AllThingsD interview, and whether he said anything of importance. Daniel will also explain what he expects to see when new versions of the iOS and OS X are unveiled at Apple's WWDC, and why he likes Windows 8.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we discuss the Google I/O non-event, the U.S. Senate's failed attempt to grill Tim Cook and other Apple executives about the taxes the company pays and doesn't pay, Microsoft's deceptive new ads that unfairly compare Windows 8 tablets with the iPad, the media's Apple disconnect, and the products Apple is most likely to introduce later this year. Our guests this week include Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, and Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present long-time Mac programmer Dan Wood, of Karelia Software, who discusses the latest version of their acclaimed Web site creation tool, Sandvox. Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," and the editor of Mac OS X Hints, is on board to explain why his data began to "bleed" when he switched to a new wireless carrier. He also comments on why Apple might be ignoring Microsoft's alleged requests to make a Windows 8 version of iTunes. From Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, you'll learn about Google's ho-hum I/O event, China's campaign against Apple, and about Tim Cook's expected proposal, to be delivered at a Congressional hearing, for new tax laws to allow the company to repatriate billions of dollars of cash kept overseas.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Peter Cohen, co-host of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, who will discuss the question of whether we want to buy or rent software, using Adobe's decision to move development of their content creative apps to the Creative Cloud as a prime example You'll also learn how to preserve your digital memories with Greg Scoblete, co-author of a new eBook, "From Fleeting to Forever: A Guide to Enjoying and Preserving Your Digital Photos and Videos," who will explain how to make sense of your growing library of digital photos and videos. We'll also feature Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who will explain the "7 Ways to Give Back on Twitter and Facebook," and the "10 Best Apps for Bathroom Breaks." You'll also hear about the results of the magazine's tests of Samsung's flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S4.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present a real rags to riches story from Tim Angel, owner of ZooGue, a company that manufactures cases for iPhones, iPads and other mobile gear. You'll also hear from tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, who writes a weekly column for USA Today, who reports on Samsung's latest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S4, why Wall Street has gone insane over Apple, the worth, or lack thereof, of Facebook Home, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and their "Who Has Your Back?" summary of how major sites defend your privacy from government intrusion. Next up on this week's show, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, talks about those peculiar comments from BlackBerry's CEO that tablets will be a non-factor within five years, and have never made profits, despite the evidence of the iPad's ongoing success. Daniel will also continue his evaluation of the mobile platform wars, and why tech and financial pundits continue to misunderstand Apple.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present commentator Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, who will talk about Apple's performance in the last financial quarter, the state of the PC industry, and about the potential for such future TV technologies as 4K, or Ultra HD. In the second half of the show, John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, will discuss how Apple might change the setup for their Worldwide Developers Conference to accommodate more developers, "the power and scope of Apple," and why it's a good thing that Microsoft considers the iOS boring.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," and the editor of Mac OS X Hints, who discusses the issues involved in dealing with your personal technology after moving from one country to another. One key question involves dealing with iTunes content protected by DRM, such as movies and videos. We'll also feature Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, will talk about how Microsoft is shooting itself in the foot with current policies, how Samsung was caught in the act paying for anonymous bashing of a rival, HTC, how Google's Eric Schmidt found "religion" on privacy because of mini-drones, and other hot topics.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, co-host of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, who covers such subjects as the sharp drop in PC sales, the contradictory reports of Mac sales, and what it all means to the tech industry. You'll learn about the latest and greatest high definition TV technology from Carlos Angulo, Marketing Manager of the HDTV division of Vizio. We'll also feature Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who will cover the reasons why PC sales are dropping, the faults with Windows 8, and will then talk about the latest and greatest Android smartphones.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present John Rizzo, of MacWindows.com, who explains why Windows 8 has been such an abject failure, with suggestions on what Microsoft should be doing to improve their latest OS. You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who continues his discussion about the growing problems with Google's Android mobile platform. He also gives his reasons why the reported adoption rate for Windows 8 is so low.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Bryan Chaffin, co-founder and co-publisher of The Mac Observer, who will talk about Apple's large stash of cash and the taxman, plus other subjects, including T-Mobile's new marketing scheme that is intended to eliminate subsidized handsets. You'll also hear from Joe Wilcox, Managing Editor of BetaNews, who will talk about the increase in cyber attacks on major Web sites, including banks and other financial institutions, why he's switching his cellular service to T-Mobile, and other topics that include Samsung's impact on the Android platform.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present tech journalist Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, who will discuss the status of the various mobile platforms, what Google has to fear from Samsung, and why he has problems relying on Google services. From Laptop magazine, Reviews Editor Michael Prospero covers some of the best and worst tech gear tested in 2012 and so far in 2013, along with whether lacking five features that are on the Samsung Galaxy S4 makes the iPhone 5 "ancient." Commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," and the editor of Mac OS X Hints, makes a special return appearance to talk about Apple's answer to virtual desktops in OS X, known as Spaces.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," and the editor of Mac OS X Hints, discusses the trials and tribulations of buying a new Mac for someone who lives in another country, and the issues he's probably going to confront with his Apple ID and iTunes account when he moves from France to the UK. And now that Samsung has announced the newest possible iPhone killer, the Galaxy S4 smartphone, we bring on board Roy Choi, Managing Editor of TechnoBuffalo, and Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, to discuss the potential impact of the new gadget, and the good and bad points, including hands-on impressions.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present an extended conversation with John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who will talk about such topics as why the iOS needs a new "paint job," the apparent shift towards the iPad mini, why John doesn't use FaceBook, the problems of Java on the Mac platform, and his own experiences working for Apple from his home office. You'll also hear from Peter Cohen, a co-host of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, who discusses the possibilities for new Apple gear, such as an iWatch and an Apple connected TV. When it comes to a TV set, just what needs might Apple fill without having to depend on deals with content providers or carriers? And what about all the false information being published about Apple's perceived success or lack of success?

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we'll be joined by Chrysta Olson, Director of Communications for Pheed, a new social networking portal that reportedly combines some of the best features of Facebook, Twitter and other services. You'll hear from Macworld contributor Rob Griffiths, of Many Tricks, who will discuss his comparison between Siri voice recognition and Google, and which service delivered faster and more accurate results on the iOS platform. For a security wrap-up, we present Jeff Erwin, CEO for Intego, a Mac security software publisher, and the company's senior security analyst, Lysa Myers. In addition, tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, who writes a weekly column for USA Today, reports on the 2013 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, and some of the most interesting mobile gear introduced at the event. He also gives you his views about how wireless carriers overcharge you for international roaming.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," describes the most important change in a recent iTunes 11 update along with his viewpoints on how it compares with iTunes 10. You'll also hear Kirk's reaction to the rumors about a possible iWatch from Apple. We'll also present information about two top 10 lists from Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine. The first covers the "Top 10 Tech Myths: True or False?," and the second covers the "10 Worst Tech Rip-Offs and How to Avoid them." You won't be surprised by some of the ones Avram and his staff have exposed. He'll also give you his initial comments about the new HTC One smartphone, the company's flagship handset, introduced this week at press events in New York and London.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, delivers a detailed response to a penetrating probe of the problems with OS X from developer Lloyd Chambers, author of an article about what he perceives as "core rot" in OS X, which was featured on last week's episode. Adam also discusses the recent speculation about the possibility that Apple will release a smart watch later this year. We'll also present more compelling cutting-edge commentary from Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider. This week Daniel continues his ongoing penetrating analysis of the mobile platform wars, and also presents his reaction to Chambers' article, and the ongoing iWatch speculation.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, veteran Mac developer Lloyd L. Chambers, who worked on such apps as DiskDoubler in the 1990s, explains why he finds "core rot" in OS X. He'll explain the problems he's encountered with iTunes, the Finder and general system reliability. You'll also hear from outspoken commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, who will cover the state of Apple, and how Wall Street said Apple was in deep trouble despite the fact that the company had a record quarter for sales and profits. From Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, you'll discover the 13 tech terms that are outdated, and prepare to disagree with what he says. Avram will also discuss his mixed review of the Microsoft Surface Pro tablet.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech blogger Roy Choi, managing editor of TechnoBuffalo, discusses the state of the smartphone market, and reports on his hands-on experiences with the newest BlackBerry 10 handsets, including the touch-based Z10. Can BlackBerry's new products reverse the company's trend towards oblivion? With an update on the state of Apple, and why Wall Street is down on the company, you'll hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider. Daniel will also focus on the state of Apple's competition. Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, will discuss Apple's ongoing prospects despite taking a drubbing on Wall Street, how Microsoft's Windows 8 and Surface tablets are faring so far, and whether new TV technologies, such as the higher resolution 4K models, are sufficient to convince lots of customers to replace their sets.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we explore the common sense reasons behind Apple's earnings miss, how Wall Street has overreacted, and why some so-called industry analysts and tech commentators have totally misunderstood Apple's real sales and prospects. You'll also discover the latest possibilities about the next Mac Pro, and where Apple's TV initiative might go. Our guests include John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, and Peter Cohen, a co-host of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," discusses lemons for 2012, a list of the products that caused him lots of grief. He'll also talk about the prospects for an Apple TV set. You'll also hear from tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, who writes a weekly column for USA Today," discussing the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, including some of the great and not-so-great product intros.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech author Keir Thomas, author of "Mac Kung Fu: Over 400 Tips, Tricks, Hints, and Hacks for Apple OS X (Pragmatic Programmers)," joins us to present some of his favorite OS X secrets. He'll also comment on current news in the Apple universe. You'll also hear from Macworld Senior Editor Dan Frakes, who speaks to the possibility that Apple will release a low-cost iPhone, as is being predicted in the media, and the potential outcome of the company's Apple TV hobby. From Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, you'll hear his comments about the possibility of a cheaper iPhone, and whether Apple wants to build a smart TV set. He'll also offer OS X and iOS tips from some of his best-selling books.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, commentator Joe Wilcox, Managing Editor of BetaNews, discusses the outcome of the Federal Trade Commission's probe into Google's search policies, and the verdict that addresses the patent licensing policies of Google's Motorola Mobility division. Joe will also discuss his article suggesting that Apple may have lost its stomach for industry-shaking revolutions of their product lines. You'll also hear from Avram Piltch, Online Editor Director of Laptop magazine, who will talk about the sort of product intros expected at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, held the second week of January and express his ongoing concerns about the prospects for Windows 8.

View Details

We explore 2012's wins and losses in the tech industry, with the emphasis on Apple Inc. Was, as some people suggest, Mapgate, involving the trials and tribulations of Maps for iOS 6, the biggest tech failure of the year? What about the buggy initial release of iTunes 11, and is Apple going to release a smart TV set next year? Along to discuss these and other subjects are Peter Cohen, from the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, and tech journalist Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy."

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Michael Prospero, Reviews Editor for Laptop magazine, to discuss some of the notable products he and his crew have tested over the past year, along with ongoing speculation that Apple has a smart TV coming next year. You'll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who will cover his multipart series on ebook readers and tablets. He'll tell you his favorites, and then explain why he believes it is inevitable that Apple will release a TV set.

View Details

We discuss all those rumors that Apple is planning to build a smart TV set, perhaps in 2013. You'll also hear more discussions about the problems and the benefits of iTunes 11. Along to talk about these and other issues are Adam Engst from TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop. In addition, Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, joins us with his 2012 best/worst list. You might be able to guess what the magazine concludes was number one on the list of the worst tech failures. He'll also list some of the best laptop computers, tablets, and smartphones.

View Details

Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," returns for a detailed discussion of the good, bad and ugly elements of iTunes 11 for the Mac and PC. You'll learn about which features Apple removed, the feature that will soon be restored, and about things that might be done better in a future version. We'll also feature Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, who will talk about his recent odyssey, where the electric power in his office, powering loads of tech gear, was "fried" while on a recent vacation. He'll also discuss Tim Cook's lengthy interviews with NBC and Bloomberg Businessweek, and the implications of those tantalizing statements about building Macs in the U.S., and the potential for an Apple smart TV set.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we focus on Amazon's possible deception in advertising the Kindle Paperwhite eBook reader, Apple and the professional market, the executive musical chairs at Apple and Microsoft, iTunes Match -- the second year, and we bring you a first look at iTunes 11, which offers a new look and the promise of better performance. You'll hear from Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy" and Peter Cohen, from the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we focus on the latest tech news and views from Apple and other companies with a special emphasis on Windows 8, and the tepid early reaction to Microsoft's efforts to establish what they call the PC+ era. You'll hear from veteran tech columnist Ted Landau, who writes for The Mac Observer and Macworld, usability guru Jakob Nielsen, who has actually put Windows 8 through a series of intense tests with a panel of experienced PC users, and Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, discusses the recent departure of Steve Sinofsky, the President of the Windows Division at Microsoft, and the problems the company may be facing with Windows 8 and the Surface tablet. Adrian Hoppel, who writes a weekly column for Mac|Life called "Law & Apple," discusses Apple's recent patent licensing settlement with HTC and how that deal might impact ongoing lawsuits involving Samsung and other companies. You'll also be introduced to a powerful new Mac diagnostic app, Checkmate, in a special interview with Micromat's Jeff Baudin.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we'll focus on some of the great new tech gadgets introduced for the holiday season, including Apple's iPad mini and the fourth generation iPad, the Windows Surface RT tablet, Windows 8, and gear from Amazon and Google. Along with their forthright opinions on these and other topics will be Stephen Baker, Vice President for Industry Analysis at the NPD Group, and Michael Prospero, Reviews Editor for Laptop magazine.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we bring on board Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," to discuss the rapid disappearance of optical drives from new Macs. He'll also talk briefly about Apple's recent executive shakeup. Jim Galbraith, the Lab Director for Macworld, details the benchmarks of the recent Apple products that he's tested, and his plans for evaluating the latest mobile gadgets. From Adrian Hoppel, who writes a weekly column for Mac|Life called "Law & Apple," presents his unfiltered opinion about the impending departure of Apple VP Scott Forstall, the latest news about Apple's legal wrangling with Google and other companies. During this session, you'll also hear Gene's early observations after installing Windows 8.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we cover an extremely busy week in the tech world. At a special media event, Apple introduced the iPad mini, a new iPad refresh, plus several Macs, including a slimmed down iMac. Despite record sales, Wall Street gave Apple some lumps because iPad sales came in one or two million units below analyst expectations. Meanwhile, Microsoft launched Windows 8 and the Surface tablet. Along to discuss these and other tech issues are: John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, and Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech journalist Rob Pegoraro, who writes for USA Today and other publications, covers such subjects as satellite Internet, broadband Internet performance, the possibilities for the iPad mini, the impending arrival of Windows 8 and the Microsoft Surface tablet. Joe Wilcox, Managing Editor of BetaNews, covers the Windows 8 issues, the introduction of the Surface tablet, and Apple's possible plans for the iPad mini and other expected new products.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, discusses the latest news and views about Apple and Microsoft. Will the really be an iPad mini, and how real is the Microsoft Surface tablet? From Michael Prospero, Reviews Editor for Laptop magazine, you'll hear brief reviews of two curious notebook computers from Sony that come preloaded with Windows 8. You'll also hear about the results of a shootout pitting the iPhone 5 against what is perceived to be its main competitor, the Samsung Galaxy S III.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, Adam Engst from TidBITS and Take Control Books, who will be speaking about the Mapgate fiasco, along with his ideas about how Apple should price OS X, and how that price may impact app sales. Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," tells of his trials and tribulations in using Maps for iOS 6 to travel around France. He'll also report on his problems with Apple's EarPods, their newly-designed earphone.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, to make sense of the "Mapgate" controversy that involves problems with Apple's home-built mapping service. Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, gives you his take on Mapgate, explains the reasons why he feels Android smartphones beat the iPhone in some areas, and gives you his first impressions of the latest generation of Nook tablets from Barnes & Noble.

View Details

We present software developer Alexander Adam, from Quasado, who is one of the people behind StageStack, a project to create a new graphics app in the tradition of Macromedia FreeHand. You'll also hear from Adrian Hoppel, who writes a weekly column for Mac|Life called "Law & Apple," where he tries to make some sense of the Apple's legal adventures. John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, will explain why every "geeky smartphone feature doesn't matter," list the iPhone 5 features that Apple didn't offer and why, and dissect Samsung's anti-iPhone 5 ad campaign.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we introduce Michael Phipps, founder of the Haiku project, an effort to develop a new open source operating system that's inspired by the BeOS of the 1990s. You'll also hear from Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," who describes some of the promised features of the forthcoming iTunes upgrade and whether they will, so to speak, make the grade. Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, is on board to refute what he regards as unfounded criticisms of the iPhone 5.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, tech commentator Rob Pegoraro reviews the recent IFA Consumer Electronics Unlimited show, which took place in Berlin, and some of the most fascinating gadgets he checked out. He'll also comment on the current developments in the tech universe. You'll also hear from Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who will also discuss some compelling gear presented at the IFA trade show, along with the newest Windows Phone handsets from Nokia, Amazon's updated Kindle lineup, and the possibilities for a smaller version of Apple's iPad.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, cutting edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, presents detailed comments about the fallout from the Apple/Samsung trial, where Apple was awarded over a billion dollars. Michael Prospero, Reviews Editor for Laptop magazine, talks about some of the latest developments in Windows 8 tablet-oriented computers and smartphones, and also covers the results of the Apple/Samsung trial.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, the one and only "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, joins us to explain the cloud. He'll also compare Dropbox to Apple's iCloud, and try to sort out those confusing sync problems with Apple's cloud-based services. Kirk will also discuss Apple's recent 10.8.1 update for Mountain Lion. Cutting-edge commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, joins us to cover a variety of subjects. He'll touch on the 10.8.1 update, the ongoing strategic problems at Dell and HP, how Twitter might be the new AOL, and Microsoft's new corporate logo.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we present Susie Ochs, Executive Editor of Mac|Life, who will present an update on news and views in the Apple universe. You'll also hear from John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, who will cover the possibilities for a small version of the iPad, a potential replacement for Apple Mail, the fallout of Apple's ongoing "thermonuclear patent war," and what you might see in the iPhone 5. Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus will cover Apple news, his experiences with OS X Mountain Lion, and speculate about the possibilities of an iPad version of Microsoft Office.

View Details

Mac author and troubleshooting expert Ted Landau discusses the changes and possible problems and fixes for OS 10.8 Mountain Lion. Michael Prospero, Reviews Editor for Laptop magazine, presents a preliminary "smackdown" of Microsoft's Windows 8 versus Apple's Mountain Apple. Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," talks about an unannounced new feature of Mountain, some possible bugs, and ongoing iTunes music download issues.

View Details

We present Paul Wagenseil, of Security News Daily, will discuss security issues on the Android OS platform, and the problem Apple may have created by not making Safari 6 available for older versions of OS X. Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, will cover predictions for Apple's expected September media event, where the next iPhone is expected to launch, plus platform comparisons between OS X Mountain Lion and Windows 8. Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, joins Gene in talking about possible early bugs in Mountain Lion, along with a solution or two, plus possible usability issues that might arise in Windows 8.

View Details

We present noted industry analyst Stephen Baker, of the NPD Group, to review the hits and misses in Apple's earnings report for the June quarter. He'll also talk about ongoing industry trends in the mobile, PC and TV markets. We also present a show regular, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who will deliver a reality check about the meaning behind Apple's earnings, especially the supposed "miss" in iPhone sales. He'll also continue his discussion about the ongoing mobile and PC platform wars. You'll also learn about a new Internet telephone service, "a phone company in a box," from Nelson Hudes, who represents NetTALK.com, which recently introduced a Wi-Fi version of their VoIP phone device.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, discusses the curious case of Dr. Steve Mann, who is considered the "father of wearable computing." He'll also discuss the differing visions of Apple and Microsoft when it comes to the Post-PC and PC+ eras. John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, discusses a variety of subjects that include the ongoing integration of Apple's iOS into OS X, and the patent lawsuit epidemic among tech companies. Dan Frakes, a Macworld Senior Editor, offers a primer on Apple's OS X Mountain Lion, including the system requirements and why some older Macs are no longer supported. You'll also learn about some of the most important new features.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, returns to talk about Microsoft's ongoing problems in remaining relevant, and his reactions to persistent rumors that a small iPad is coming later this year. Tech blogger Jonathan Rettinger, of TechnoBuffalo, also talks about the potential for an iPad mini and how it may take over the market for small tablets. He'll also suggest a possible solution for RIM to save the BlackBerry business, and about the possibilities for an Amazon smartphone. Prolific author Joe Kissell, whose "Take Control of Upgrading to Mountain Lion," has been released, will explain how to make sure your Mac can run OS 10.8, and how to prepare for the upgrade.

View Details

Prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus talks about Microsoft's woes, and gives you a preview of the best (and worst) features of OS 10.8 Mountain Lion. Author and commentator Ted Landau discusses some of the problems with Apple's Mac App Store, including the limitations of sandboxing, the inability to get demo software or discounted app upgrades. From Jim Galbraith, the Lab Director of Macworld, you'll get the latest and greatest benchmarks of Apple's recent MacBook upgrades, including the MacBook Pro with Retina display. Is it time to retire your old Mac notebook?

View Details

author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," evaluates suggestions to change iTunes, such as the value of splitting the features into separate apps. We also cover Google's I/O conference in San Francisco, where they launched the 7-inch Nexus 7 tablet, a potential competitor to the Amazon Kindle Fire, the Android 4.1 "Jelly Bean" OS, and the Nexus Q set top box. Along to talk about the event, and Microsoft's recent mobile-related announcements, is industry analyst Ross Rubin of The NPD Group, and Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine.

View Details

We focus on some key announcements from Microsoft that have dominated tech news, such as the demonstration of a 10.6-inch tablet in two versions known as Surface, and the first announcement about the new features in Windows Phone 8. We'll also cover the potential and some of the key problems that have appeared in the forthcoming Windows 8 upgrade. Our guests include outspoken columnist and former industry analyst Joe Wilcox, from BetaNews, commentator Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, and Mike Prospero, Reviews Editor of Laptop magazine. We'll also cover Apple's amazing new MacBook Pro with Retina display, and its impact to the notebook market.

View Details

We will focus heavily on Apple's Worldwide Developer's Conference, and all the news about OS X Mountain Lion and iOS 6, along with the amazing MacBook Pro with Retina display. Our guests include author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, aka "The iTunes Guy," who will also discuss the expected death of Apple's iTunes Ping social networking feature. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, will be on board to discuss the magazine's tests of the new MacBook Pro with Retina display, and his concerns about the prospects for Windows Phone and Windows 8. John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, will discuss the WWDC, and voice his concerns for Apple's ongoing support of the pro market, even though Tim Cook has already announced a major Mac Pro upgrade for 2013.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, offers insights on Tim Cook's interview at the All Things Digital D10 conference, his observations of the ongoing mobile platform wars, and expectations for Apple's announcements at next week's WWDC. Author and commentator Ted Landau, who writes for Macworld and The Mac Observer, discusses the possibility of a larger screen iPhone, potential problems for developers because of the new sandboxing requirement for Apple's Mac App Store, Apple's "Six Best Decisions of the 21st Century," and the possible product intros at the WWDC.

View Details

Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, aka "The iTunes Guy," talks about the potential minefields for Apple's sandboxing security scheme for OS X apps. What obstacles will it present to Mac developers? He'll also talk about the failed iTunes Ping social networking service.

Columnist Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, will be asked about what we can expect from Apple at the WWDC in light of his recent remark that the Mac Pro won't be discontinued. He'll also talk about the tragic state of Research In Motion and the BlackBerry.

A new visitor, Kirk Hiner, Editor in Chief of AppleTell, will describe how he got involved in covering the Apple universe. He'll also offer his feelings about the recent Tim Cook Interview at the All Things Digital D10 conference, his expectations for upcoming Mac hardware, and the next revision of the iOS.

View Details

Steve Kruschen, aka "Mr. Gadget," returns to talk about his new book, "The Mr. Gadget Consumer Tech Guide - Volume One: Electronics, Gadgetry & Technology: The One and Only Mr. Gadget Reveals What to Buy and Why to Buy It! (Volume 1)." Mr. Gadget will also discuss some of the latest and greatest tear gear that he's tested. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, returns for his third appearance three in a row. This week he'll tell you about "10 Gadgets You’d Be a Fool to Buy Right Now," and he'll also talk about the questions surrounding the Facebook IPO, and the sad state of HP, which has announced a new round of layoffs amid tepid sales.

View Details

John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, offers some pointed tips on what other companies need to do to compete with Apple -- and changing the CEO is on the list. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, returns for an encore appearance. This week he'll tell you about "15 Ways to Accelerate Your PC’s Slowest Component: You!," and we'll be offering both Mac and Windows tips. You'll also hear from best-selling author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus," who will discuss the state of Mac security, the sad state of security fear-mongering, and the security potential of Mac OS 10.8 Mountain Lion.

View Details

Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, discusses Apple's recent security updates, and the key issues involving both desktop and mobile computing platforms from Apple and the competition. Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, offers a detailed discussion of Apple's approach to Mac security, and how recent updates have the effect of disabling older or unused versions of Flash and Java. For a fascinating change of pace, Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, talks about the "Top 10 Tech Stupidity Taxes You Should Never Pay," which include rent-to-own stores, extended warranties, and other services that he regards as questionable.

View Details

Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, talks about how cell phone plans differ in the U.S. and France, and the impact of the ongoing migration of portions of the iOS to OS X. Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, from the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, talks about cell phone woes, and offers a reality check about the malware situation on the Mac platform. ClouldFlare CEO Matthew Prince explains how the company, selected by the Wall Street Journal in 2011 as the Most Innovative Internet Technology company, can help protect your site and make it run faster.

View Details

Tech writer Geoffrey Morrison (@TechWriterGeoff on Twitter), who covers the TV beat for CNET, Sound&Vision and other publications, discusses current technology and when is the best time to replace your old set. You'll also hear from cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who takes a look at Apple's ongoing record earnings, and then gives you his take on the PC and mobile platform wars, and the likely winners and losers. From The NPD Group, industry analyst Ross Rubin also gives you his views on the latest results from Apple Inc. and Microsoft, and examines the current state of the art when it comes to 3D TV.

View Details

Tonya Engst, of TidBITS and Take Control Books, speaks about the Department of Justice's antitrust lawsuit against Apple and major book publishers from the viewpoint of a small ebook publisher. She'll also discuss her latest book, "Take Control of Your iPad." From Laptop magazine, Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director, discusses the 15 technologies that will be history by the time his newborn son, Isaac, becomes a teenager. You'll also learn about the most secure methods to transfer your files from Ian Shray, Co-founder and CEO of WellRedApps, who will be talking about the release of a new file encryption app, DropKey.

View Details

Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, brings you up to date on ongoing iTunes problems, and also gives you the full story behind the recent Flashback malware outbreak that reportedly infected up to 600,000 Macs before Apple released a Java security update to fix the problem. From TidBITS and Take Control Books, Michael E. Cohen speaks about the Department of Justice's antitrust lawsuit against Apple and five major book publishers for alleged price fixing. Macworld Senior Editor Dan Frakes also discusses the Department of Justice antitrust action, along with iTunes syncing problems and other issues, plus the best way to recharge your new iPad, which has heftier power needs because of the Retina Display and other components.

View Details

Best-selling author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus gives you a preview of his new book, co-written with USA Today's Ed Baig, entitled "The iPad for Dummies," the latest edition of which covers the new iPad. Tech blogger Jonathan Rettinger, of TechnoBuffalo, discusses the trials and tribulations of Yahoo!, and also offers an early look at Nokia's Lumia 900, meant as the flagship smartphone for the Windows Phone OS. Nationally syndicated tech columnist Craig Crossman, host of the Computer America radio show, discusses his experiences with 100 megabit broadband, and why you might have to replace your network cables if your ISP offers higher speeds.

View Details

Macworld's "iTunes Guy," Kirk McElhearn, returns to discuss his personal war stories involving defective products he's purchased from Apple and Logitech. He also explains why it's a good idea to purchase an extended warranty. Macworld Lab Director Jim Galbraith reveals the results of the magazine's heat and battery tests of the new iPad, and how they compare to other posted test results, including the ones from Consumer Reports. Cutting edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, describes his thorough evaluation of the new iPad, why it was singled out for what he believes to be unfair treatment because of non-existent heat problems, and then delivers an overview of the ongoing platform wars involving Apple, Google and Microsoft.

View Details

We poll our guest experts to see whether the new iPad is really hot in ways other than record sales. Our guest list includes Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who also discusses the seven deadly sins committed by wireless carriers and handset makers. John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, talks about his decision to ditch his landline phone once and for all, and some of his observations about Tim Cook and his initial acts as Apple CEO. With veteran Mac author and troubleshooting expert Ted Landau, we'll cover the Mac press, and whether these journalists are getting just a little too cozy with Apple, along with the next OS X upgrade, Mountain Lion, and the improved integration of iOS features.

View Details

We focus once again on Apple's "new iPad" with that spectacular Retina Display, which is selling out around the world. We also cover the revised Apple TV, the prospects for an Apple "smart" TV, and Microsoft's potential troubles with Windows 8. Our guest list includes: Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, and Peter Cohen, from the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop.

View Details

We cover "The new iPad," which some prefer to mention as the iPad 3. With Apple's media event, not to mention the introduction of a new Apple TV, and some fancy new apps, there's lots to talk about. Our guests include: Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Ross Rubin, Executive Director and Principal Analyst, NPD Connected Intelligence for The NPD Group.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, Gene presents Neil Ticktin, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of MacTech magazine, who discusses AT&T's data throttling problems, and the issues facing developers who want to get their apps into the Mac App Store. We explore radio's "Golden Age" with Greg Bell, host of Sirius/XM Satellite Radio's "Radio Classics" show, which presents many of your favorite radio dramas and comedies. We'll discuss the fascinating back stories, plus the technology used to restore these gems. Macworld's Dan Frakes is on board to talk about Apple's next media event, where the wraps will be taken off the next iPad, plus Apple's new Mac OS, Mountain Lion, due to ship by late summer.

View Details

We continue our extensive coverage of OS X Mountain Lion, Apple's successor to Lion, which will include enhanced integration with key iOS features and applications that are now available on the iPad. Apple plans to release Mountain Lion to Mac users by late summer. Along to talk about the ins and outs of the new OS are: Jim Dalrymple, Founder, Editor in Chief of The Loop, commentator Kirk McElhearn, and Seán Captain, Managing Editor of TechNewsDaily.

View Details

We begin with author and commentator Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, who talks about the dream of the "paperless office" and the two broken Mac updates recently released by Apple, along with the problems they caused. You'll hear from Macworld's Dan Moren on the four important issues that need fixing in the App Store and, of course, the Mac App Store. With the launch of the next version of Mac OS X, known as Mountain Lion, we bring aboard Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus to discuss some of the new iOS-inspired features you can expect when Apple releases the OS late this summer.

View Details

Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Macworld's "iTunes Guy," talks with Gene about some of his favorite TV shows, and his favorite and not-so-favorite Macs over the years. Industry analyst Stephen Baker, of the NPD Group, talks about tech industry trends, including smartphone sales, the possibilities of Windows 8, 3D TV, and whether Apple will really build a "smart" TV. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, discusses Android OS update problems, whether smartphones with physical keyboards have a future, and his own investigations into reports that Apple and other tech companies are allowing their Asian contract factories to abuse factory workers.

View Details

Jim Dalrymple, of The Loop, outlines Apple's recent update for Final Cut Pro X, and whether the problems reported by video editors have been properly addressed. He'll also cover the management shakeup at Research In Motion. Rich Sloan, founder of StartUp Nation, offers tips for new businesses, and describes a partnership with Brother in which five people will receive $5,000 grants to help fund their new ventures. Peter Cohen, of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, discusses the ongoing controversy over the working conditions at Foxconn and other companies contracted by Apple and other tech companies to build their products. You'll also hear about the ongoing prospects for Windows Phone and the Android OS from Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider.

View Details

John Martellaro, Senior Editor, Analysis & Reviews for The Mac Observer, discusses Apple's stellar financials along with his views on iBooks 2 and how it will impact the textbook business. Ross Rubin, Executive Director and Principal Analyst, NPD Connected Intelligence for The NPD Group, also talks about Apple's financial results, along with trends in the tech industry, including prospects for 3D TVs. We'll also be joined by Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, who will discuss the recent management shakeup at Research In Motion (RIM), Apple's amazing success, and reports of unsafe working conditions at the contract factories assembling Apple's products.

View Details

Kirk McElhearn, who is now Macworld's "iTunes Guy," gives you some hard-won tips about using iTunes, and he also outlines some of the problems reported with iTunes Match and iCloud. Commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, discusses the Consumer Electronics Show, along with the issues involving the various hardware and software platforms from the likes of Intel, AMD, ARM, Apple, and Google. We're also joined by Rob Pegoraro, a tech writer for USAToday.com, who discusses Apple's iBooks 2, its impact to education, and the ongoing controversy over the now-shelved Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA).

View Details

veteran Mac author and troubleshooting expert Ted Landau discusses the prospects for an Apple integrated TV, and also details many of the problems with the first release of Apple's iCloud. Direct from the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, discusses some of the hits and misses at the trade show. Bill Vlahos, creator of InfoWallet, discusses how his cross-platform "file cabinet" application can be used to easily organize, store, and access your most private information in one very secure location.

View Details

Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, provides his take on the controversial Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA), proposed legislation in the U.S. House that some say puts draconian controls on attempts to remove alleged pirated content from Web sites. You'll also hear from Sean Brown, Vice President, Sonic Foundry, about an update to their Mediasite that will allow, for example, students with iPhones and iPads to watch online lectures from educators. Macworld's Dan Moren joins Gene to brainstorm about the possibilities for an iTV, or Apple connected TV, and whether such a product will ever see the light of day.

View Details

First, commentator Kirk McElhearn discusses a peculiar take by a book reviewer on the impact of Steve Jobs and Apple, and also discusses some of his favorite stories for the year. Prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus muses on what might have happened to Apple had Steve Jobs not returned to the company in the mid-1990s. He also discusses the possibilities of an Apple connected TV and how such a product would deliver the content you want. With The Loop's Jim Dalrymple, we talk about such topics as the possible impact of the Stop Software Piracy Act and how domain registrar GoDaddy got themselves in the thick of it when they first supported the controversial proposed law, and then, in the face of customer defections, changed their tune.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, covers Apple's recent patent victory against HTC before the International Trade Commission, and also offers some surprisingly frank comments about AT&T's failed attempt to merge with T-Mobile. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, offers a long-range view of the failed AT&T/T-Mobile merger and suggests possible suitors for T-Mobile. He'll also cover some of the top tech stories of 2011, and offer projections for industry trends in 2012.

View Details

Macworld Editorial Director Jason Snell covers the history of the iPod, and his experiences with an Amazon Kindle Fire tablet. Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, covers the shaky situation at HP, as the company tries to seek out a new strategy, and why Microsoft removed the head of the Windows Phone division. For a last minute look at the best tech gear for 2011, we call upon Steve "Mr. Gadget" Kruschen.

View Details

We cover such topics as using dictation software on your Mac, the ongoing problems with iTunes Match and matching songs already in Apple's music library, some network issues at Verizon Wireless, known problems with the Google Android user experience, and whether or not netbooks are on life support. Our guests include: author and commentator Kirk McElhearn, Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, and Kim Bradford from GottaBeMobile.

View Details

We cover the ongoing problems with Apple's iTunes Match, why HP CEO Meg Whitman expects Apple to be the number one PC maker on the planet in 2012, Amazon's Kindle Fire tablet, including the results of a hands-on review, plus the ongoing problems with the Android and Windows platforms. Our guests include: columnist Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, tech writer Lex Friedman from Macworld, and outspoken commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider.

View Details

We bring back outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, who will focus on the ongoing issues with Apple's iTunes Match and will also offer some offhand observations about the Amazon Kindle Fire tablet. Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn tells you why Apple won't let him use iTunes Match on his desktop computer, and he'll continue to detail his ongoing and curious Mac hardware problems. You'll also hear from John Martellaro, a Senior Editor for The Mac Observer, who will cover the curious troubles he encountered upgrading his DirecTV DVR, and the surprising results of his investigation into the alleged malware problem on the Google Android mobile platform.

View Details

On this week's all-star episode, we focus on the arrival and teething pains of iTunes Match, and how the Amazon Kindle Fire tablet stacks up against the latest Barnes & Noble Nook and, of course, Apple's iPad. We'll even cover your humble host's totally irritating issues in making iTunes Match work on an iPhone. Along for the ride are Dan Moren, from Macworld, Adam Engst from TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Sascha Segan, Lead Mobile Analyst for PCMag.com.

View Details

We have a quartet of guests this week: Prolific author Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus discusses the forthcoming iTunes Match from Apple, and his continuing quest to find a replacement for Intuit's Quicken, a personal finance app, on his Mac. Commentator Kirk McElhearn is in rant mode as he complains about problem's he's had with Apple support in resolving iCloud issues. From ZeoBIT, spokesperson Jeremiah Fowler describes the major features of the company's all-in-one Mac utility, MacKeeper. Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, returns to address the iPhone 4S battery woes, Apple's recent fix, and Adobe's decision to stop developing Flash for mobile gadgets, such as Android smartphones, and the BlackBerry PlayBook.

View Details

Macworld's Dan Moren delivers an Apple update in which we talk about the forthcoming iTunes Match service, which missed its end of October deadline, the prospects for an iTV, or Apple connected TV, and other hot topics. Ross Rubin, an industry analyst for the NPD Group, talks about sales trends, the possibilities for an Apple connected TV, and whether 3D TV is ever going to catch on. You'll hear a mobile gadget update from Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who will cover the trials and tribulations of Research In Motion, makers of the BlackBerry, and the prospects for the Amazon Kindle Fire tablet.

View Details

We observe the 10th anniversary of Apple's iconic iPod, with author and commentator Kirk McElhearn. You'll learn about the gadget's humble beginnings, and how its future shapes up. We also feature a special interview with legendary audio equipment designer Bob Carver, who discusses his history of creating audio equipment for your home, plus how the quest for perfect sound has fared so far in the 21st century. Macworld's Lex Friedman and Gene talk about the best-selling biography, "Steve Jobs," from author Walter Isaacson. Have all the revelations about Jobs' mercurial personality made people less apt to admire Apple's co-founder? We'll cover lots of questions and possibilities.

View Details

Prolific author Joe Kissell, author of “Take Control of Upgrading to Lion” and “Take Control of iCloud,” offers hints and tips for upgrading to Apple’s newest OS, and migrating your stuff to iCloud. Tech expert Steve “Mr. Gadget” Kruschen discusses harnessing the power of connected TVs, Internet phone services, affordable printers, and lots of other great tech gear. Columnist Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, reviews the iPhone 4S, and offers an on-air demonstration of the Siri personal assistant.

View Details

We feature a return visit by Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, who recounts his encounters with Steve Jobs during Apple shareholder meetings, where he asked a number of questions. He also attempts to dispel some of the rumors about Jobs’ public behavior. From the NPD Group, industry analyst Stephen Baker talks about the initial prospects for the iPhone 4S, and the state of the PC industry. You’ll also hear from Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, who covers the iPhone 4S, and the fallout from the serious network outage experienced by BlackBerry maker Research In Motion.

View Details

We honor the life and times of Steven P. Jobs with Peter Cohen, of the "Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, and Adam Engst from TidBITS and Take Control Books. Peter will also discuss Apple's media event that featured the launch of the iPhone 4S. You'll hear more about the latest and greatest iPhone, along with the shortcomings of Google's Android OS and Microsoft's efforts to deploy Windows everywhere, from Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider.

View Details

The topic list this week includes the forthcoming Amazon Kindle Fire, predictions of future Apple products, and a discussion about a new audio/video/messaging app for the iOS and Android OS. Our guests include: Dan Moren and Jim Galbraith from Macworld, Avram Piltch from Laptop magazine, and Jake Levant of fring.

View Details

The topic list includes: The curious decision of Netflix to split streaming and DVD services into two separate companies, the good, bad and ugly aspects of Apple’s OS X Lion, Mac speech recognition software, and possible replacements for Intuit’s Quicken for the Mac. Guests: Peter Cohen, of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus, and commentator Kirk McElhearn.

View Details

We explore Windows 8, Microsoft’s forthcoming OS upgrade that will combine mobile and desktop systems, which is widely expected to arrive in 2012. Our guests include cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, and Seth Rosenblatt, from CNET, who had a hands-on encounter with an early beta of Windows 8. Macworld writer Lex Friedman talks about the online theft of gift card balances from iTunes.

View Details

Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, explores the value of social networking, particularly with FaceBook and Twitter, and offers an Apple update. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, offers his impressions of Google Plus. He'll also discuss Windows 8, and Intel's Ultrabook initiative and how it might compete with the MacBook Air.

View Details

We explore the dark side of Google with Ben Edelman, PhD., an Assistant Professor of Harvard Business School. Commentator Kirk McElhearn reports on his problems with a 27-inch iMac, and you'll hear an insider’s report on life at Apple Inc., and possible solutions in Apple’s quest to conquer the living room with John Martellaro, a Senior Editor for The Mac Observer.

View Details

We discuss the surprise resignation of Steve Jobs as CEO of Apple Inc. with industry analyst Stephen Baker of the NPD Group. We also explore Google’s decision to buy Motorola Mobility, and HP’s decision to ditch its WebOS products with Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider and Peter Cohen, of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop.

View Details

We cover the controversial decision of Google to purchase Motorola Mobility, a handset maker, and how it will impact the smartphone industry, with Jim Dalrymple, Editor in Chief of The Loop, and John Martellaro, Senior Editor of The Mac Observer. Karen Sohl, Communications Manager from the Linksys division of Cisco, covers home networking.

View Details

Macworld writer Lex Friedman discusses an online method used by some developers to bypass Apple’s “walled garden” approach. Laptop magazine’s Online Editorial Director, Avram Piltch makes a pitch for changing or eliminating current patent laws, which he says allow large companies and so-called patent trolls to restrict innovation.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider; security reporter Paul Wagenseil, of Security News Daily, details the known security issues for personal computers, mobile gadgets, and your car; Macworld lab director Jim Galbraith brings you up to date on Mac test results; commentator Ted Landau addresses such issues as the alleged dumbing down of OS X Lion.

View Details

Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn details an unusual crashing problem after installing OS X Lion. Macworld Editorial Director Jason Snell talks about what went wrong with America’s space program. Laptop magazine’s Online Editorial Director, Avram Piltch evaluates Apple’s upgraded thin and light notebook, the MacBook Air, how it compares with Windows portables.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we dig deep into the ins and outs of Apple's latest and greatest Mac OS, Lion. Along for the ride are Peter Cohen,co-host of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop and author Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books. Industry analyst Ross Rubin, of the NPD Group, discusses Apple’s rosy sales picture, and other topics.

View Details

Author Joe Kissell prepares Mac users for the Mac OS X Lion upgrade; PCMag.com’s Lance Ulanoff talks about the winding down of the space shuttle program and the fading dreams about future exploration; Macworld Senior Editor Dan Moren discusses the Netflix price increase, the promise of Google Plus, and the arrival of the European music streaming service, Spotify, in the U.S.

View Details

Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn discusses the forthcoming iTunes Match feature, part of Apple’s iCloud, which allows you to store up to 25,000 of your songs online for $25 per year; Laptop magazine’s Online Editorial Director, Avram Piltch, compares Google Plus with Facebook, introduces Windows 8, and explains why many people don't need a tablet computer.

View Details

Outspoken commentator Peter Cohen, co-host of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, comes out swinging about the silly speculation over an Apple patent that may create an iPhone camera kill switch; Macworld Senior Editor Dan Frakes offers yet another reality check about Apple patent filings; Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus presents his personal slant about the controversy over Final Cut Pro X.

View Details

The Loop's Jim Dalrymple and Macworld editor Lex Friedman discuss Apple's new, all-encompassing touchscreen patents and what that means to the company's competitors. Security guru Rich Mogull talks about cyber criminals, their efforts to hack government and financial institution sites, and gives you sage advice on protecting yourself.

View Details

Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, talks about Apple’s recent legal skirmishes over trademarks and intellectual property, and the ongoing problems with the Google Android OS, Chrome OS, and Microsoft. Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, has some issues with Microsoft and Google.

View Details

We discuss Apple’s triple-header of announcements at the Worldwide Developer’s Conference with Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, and Peter Cohen, co-host of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop. Author and commentator Steven Levy discusses his new book, profiling Google, entitled “In The Plex."

View Details

We will discuss Apple’s growing malware problem, possible announcements to come at the WWDC event, and Microsoft’s ongoing problems being taken seriously with their mobile platform. Our guests include author and commentator Kirk McElhearn and Macworld writer Lex Friedman.

View Details

A Web hosting update from Oliver Mauss, CEO of 1and1 Internet; the latest gear from Steve "Mr. Gadget" Kruschen; GroupLogic Product Manager Brian Ulmer introduces mobileEcho, an iPad file sharing app; for news about a potential Mac malware threat that even Apple takes seriously, you’ll hear from noted author and commentator Ted Landau.

View Details

We explore the ongoing problems with Google’s mobile platform, which includes the Android OS and the Chrome OS, and Research In Motion’s BlackBerry PlayBook. Featured guests include: Peter Cohen, co-host of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director of Laptop magazine, and cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider.

View Details

Macworld’s Lex Friedman discusses Microsoft’s decision to acquire Skype; noted industry analyst Ross Rubin, of the NPD Group, provides further insights into this unexpected merger announcement; discover Apple's well-known database app, FileMaker Pro, with Ryan Rosenberg, the company’s VP of marketing and services. He will also offer case histories of how this database app is used in the real world, such as managing a rock and roll concert.

View Details

We discuss a new potential malware threat on the Mac with commentator Kirk McElhearn, and author Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books; Kyle Wiens, from iFixit, tells you what they learned after tearing down a new iMac; Macworld Editorial Director Jason Snell discusses the new all-in-one desktop computer's pro features.

View Details

We discuss the brouhaha that erupted over a certain tracking file that was discovered on iPhones, and 3G-equipped iPads, which allegedly followed your movements even when the Location feature was switched off. Our guests include cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, from Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, and Dan Moren, Senior Editor for Macworld; Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus presents an Apple Inc. update.

View Details

We present security expert John Sileo, author of "The Smartphone Survival Guide." Peter Cohen, co-host of the"Angry Mac Bastards" radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, offers his unvarnished views about Apple's stellar financials; industry analyst Stephen Baker, of the NPD Group, provides insights into Apple's financials and other topics.

View Details

Columnist Jim Dalrymple, of The Loop, speculates about the next iPhone; security expert Rich Mogull on whether it's possible for the U.S. government to shutter the Internet in times of a national crisis; Laptop magazine’s Online Editorial Director, Avram Piltch, discusses the troubles at RIM.

View Details

Featured this week: Writer Joe Kissell talks about maintaining your Mac; Karen Combs, from Cisco, introduces their new "E" lineup of routers; Macworld Editorial Director Jason Snell joins us to talk about responsible reviewing of Macs and other tech gear, with an emphasis on Consumer Reports.

View Details

Industry analyst Ross Rubin, of the NPD Group, talks about the proposed merger between AT&T and T-Mobile; Mac|Life Online Editor Roberto Baldwin gives you a heads up on current Apple Inc. news and views; outspoken columnist Joe Wilcox explains why he doesn't expect to have to kiss the feet of Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.

View Details

John Martellaro, from The Mac Observer, participates in a fascinating discussion about corporate values; Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, discusses his experiences with a Verizon iPhone; Sascha Segan, Lead Mobile Analyst for PCMag.com, tells you why he’s not in favor of the AT&T/T-Mobile merger.

View Details

We are joined by Steve “Mr. Gadget” Kruschen, who will regale us with the latest and greatest tech gear; Macworld Senior Editor Dan Moren brings us up to date on Apple Inc. news and views; from Macworld Lab Director Jim Galbraith, you’ll learn the latest test results of the iPad 2 and MacBook Pros.

View Details

We explore the arrival of Apple's iPad 2, and examine some potential competitors. Our guests include: Peter Cohen, co-host of the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and Executive Editor for The Loop, Lance Ulanoff, Editor-in-Chief of PCMag.com, and Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine.

View Details

The Mac Observer’s John Martellaro joins us to discuss the iPad 2; from his home in France, author and commentator Kirk McElhearn offers his reactions to the iPad 2 intro as well; cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, offers a reality check on how the iPad 2 stacks up against competing tablets.

View Details

Rob Pegoraro, the personal technology columnist for the Washington Post, on why the Internet is running out of IP numbers; Avram Piltch, Online Editorial Director for Laptop magazine, profiles the recent Mobile World Congress in Barcelona; The Loop’s Jim Dalrymple discusses the nuts and bolts of Apple’s updated MacBook Pro lineup, and the latest news about Mac OS X Lion.

View Details

Cutting-edge commentator Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider, explains why he bought a Verizon iPhone and discusses the Microsoft/Nokia mobile platform deal; author and commentator Kirk McElhearn discusses Apple’s new in-app subscription service.

View Details

Adam Engst, from TidBITS and Take Control Books, discusses cloud computing, problems with News Corporation's The Daily interactive newspaper for the iPad, and the Macworld Expo; Bob “Dr. Mac” LeVitus reviews some of the best products featured at the Expo.

View Details

Our topic list includes debut of the iPhone on the Verizon Wireless network, the arrival of News Corporation’s The Daily on the iPad, and the Macworld Expo. Guests include columnist Ted Landau, Macworld Senior Editor Dan Frakes, and Peter Cohen, from the “Angry Mac Bastards” radio show and The Loop.

View Details

Author and commentator Kirk McElhearn on the Mac App Store: columnist John Martellaro, of The Mac Observer, offers insights on why Apple will prosper even if Steve Jobs leaves the company; Avram Piltch, the Online Editorial Director from Laptop magazine, discusses wireless carrier tyranny.

View Details

We explore the surprising decision by Apple CEO Steve Jobs to take another medical leave, of unknown duration, leaving COO Tim Cook in charge of the company’s day-to-day affairs. We also examine the meaning behind Apple’s record-breaking sales figures for the 2010 holiday quarter. Guests include industry analyst Stephen Baker, from the NPD Group, and cutting-edge columnist Daniel Eran Dilger, of Roughly Drafted Magazine and AppleInsider.

View Details

On this week’s all-star episode, we explore the impending arrival of the iPhone on the Verizon Wireless network, what it means for Apple customers, and whether current AT&T customers can expect a better deal. Along for the ride are Macworld's Dan Moren, The Loop's Peter Cohen, and Mac|Life's Nic Vargus.

View Details

Author Joe Kissell joins Gene to talk about the myths and the reality of the paperless office; Macworld Editorial Director Jason Snell brings you up to date on Apple’s new Mac App Store; Author and commentator Steven Levy, a Wired Magazine Senior Writer, talks about some of the announcements at the Consumer Electronics show.

View Details

Gene spars with outspoken commentator Joe Wilcox on Google TV and Android OS smartphones; industry analyst Stephen Baker, of the NPD Group, looks at the hits and misses of 2010; consumer technology columnist Rob Pegoraro, of the Washington Post, separates the fact from the fiction on the controversial net neutrality issue.

The Tech Night Owl LIVE — Tech Radio with a Twist!: Recent Episodes

Making The Impossible