The Gadget Man - Technology News and Reviews: Recent Episodes

Matt Porter

Artificial Intelligence, Technology, News and Gadget Reviews on air, online, in print and in person

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In the latest episode of The Gadget Man, I joined Lorna Bailey on BBC Radio CWR to explore a topic that’s close to all our smartphones — apps. From checking our health and managing our money, to securing our homes and snapping hundreds of photos we never quite get around to backing up, apps have become the digital wallpaper of our lives.

But here’s the big question: Have we become too reliant on them? And are there risks lurking in our seemingly innocent app folders?

During this episode, we chat candidly about the app overload many of us experience. Whether it’s a dozen different parking apps or a folder full of CCTV apps just for one house (guilty as charged), we’ve all felt the weight of digital clutter and the anxiety of deleting an app in case we “might need it someday.”

We also talk about the very real risks of having so much of our data connected to apps and the internet — and how tech companies benefit from our every tap and swipe. While some of this data helps deliver useful services, like live traffic info, it also opens doors to targeted ads, invasions of privacy, and even scams.

Tips for Staying Safe in an App-Heavy World: Only download apps from reputable sources like Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon’s App Store. * Avoid sideloading apps from unknown third-party websites — that’s where trouble can start. * Keep apps up to date — security patches are often part of these updates. * Use antivirus apps to scan for threats, especially on Android devices. * Be mindful in public when making payments with your phone — contactless tech can be abused. * Back up your photos and data* regularly to avoid heartbreak if your device is lost or damaged.

There’s also a moment of digital self-reflection: Are we hoarding apps the same way we hoard random kitchen gadgets — “just in case”? You’re not alone. I’ve got folders of unused apps, too.

And while we’re talking about clutter, let’s not forget the thousands of photos we store and forget — until it’s too late. If there’s one takeaway from this episode, it’s this: Back. Up. Your. Photos. Whether it’s to iCloud, Google Photos, or any other cloud service, it could save your most precious memories.


Listen to the full episode to hear all the laughs, insights, and a few home truths about our app obsessions — and maybe get inspired to finally sort out your own digital drawers!


Want to chat more about this topic? Drop a comment below or ping me on social media @gadgetmanblog — I’d love to hear about your app habits, fears, and favourites!

The post The Gadget Man – Episode 183 – Are We Addicted to Apps? appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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In this post, we utilise Google’s LM Notebook to create a Deep Dive into this article.

Listen in to the deep dive and let me know what you think!!!

This article explores the surprisingly captivating experience of watching a 3D printer at work, delving into the perspectives of both the creator of a 3D model and casual observers. It questions whether this act is genuinely satisfying or simply hypnotic, examining the emotional, practical, and psychological elements at play.

Key Themes and Ideas:

  1. Dual Perspectives: Creator vs. Viewer:
  2. The Creator: For those who have designed a 3D model, the act of watching it print is a deeply personal and often emotional experience. It’s likened to watching a sculptor carve marble and it’s directly tied to their creative vision and anticipation of the final product.
  3. Quote: “For those of us who have spent hours—sometimes days—designing a model, watching it come to life can feel akin to witnessing a sculptor carving marble. The experience is deeply personal, tied to the creative process and the anticipation of seeing your vision materialise.”
  4. Practicality for Creators: Beyond the emotional aspect, watching a print can also provide invaluable insight into potential design flaws, allowing for refinement of the process. The creator can observe issues like poor filament flow or miscalculations.
  5. The Viewer: For those not involved in the design, watching a 3D printer can be a mesmerising experience due to the rhythmic movement of the print head and the slow transformation of filament into a physical object. This is often compared to watching a campfire – soothing and meditative.
  6. Quote: “For the uninitiated, the spectacle of a 3D printer at work can be downright mesmerising. There’s something hypnotic about the rhythmic movements of the print head, the hum of the stepper motors, and the slow but steady transformation of raw filament into a tangible object.”
  7. The Element of Satisfaction:
  8. Creator Satisfaction: For creators, satisfaction can stem from witnessing the culmination of their design efforts and from the troubleshooting and learning aspects of observing the print. It is also admitted that the novelty of watching a large print wear off and can become monotonous after a while.
  9. Viewer Satisfaction: Viewers find satisfaction in the precision of the printing process and the visual transformation, often condensed into time-lapse videos on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. The real-time experience is described as relaxing, if not always engaging for long periods.
  10. Quote: “These videos are undeniably satisfying, combining the visual appeal of precision engineering with the gratification of seeing a project completed in record time. But is the live experience equally captivating?”
  11. The Role of Time:
  12. Patience vs. Anticipation: Watching a print in real-time requires patience, and the article compares this to “watching a pot boil” where anticipation can sometimes outweigh the actual event.
  13. Time-lapse vs. Real-Time: Time-lapse videos significantly enhance the viewing experience for casual observers, condensing hours of printing into seconds or minutes, therefore providing an instant gratification. The live experience, while relaxing for some, might not hold the same level of engagement.
  14. Remote Monitoring and its Impact:
  15. Convenience: Remote monitoring via webcams or software like OctoPrint allows creators to oversee the printing process without being physically present. This is a practical benefit but potentially removes the immersive aspect of watching in-person.
  16. Enhanced Time-lapse: Modern printers often feature built-in cameras and time-lapse functions, and open-source tools like OctoPrint enhance the quality of time-lapse footage by homing the print head during capture. This also allows for cleaner and engaging footage to be shared.
  17. Connecting Creators and Viewers: Remote monitoring and live streaming open up opportunities to share the process with a wider audience, bridging the gap between creators and viewers.
  18. The Subjective Nature of the Experience:
  19. No Definitive Answer: Ultimately, the article concludes that whether watching a 3D print is satisfying or not is subjective. It depends on individual perspectives, personal interests, and the context of the print.
  20. Quote: “So, is watching a 3D print satisfying? The answer, unsurprisingly, is subjective. For creators, the process can be a blend of satisfaction, anticipation, and anxiety. For viewers, it’s often a mix of curiosity and relaxation, with the level of engagement varying based on personal interest.”
  21. A Shared Appreciation: The real value is perhaps found in the shared appreciation for the technology, whether you’re a maker looking for flaws, a viewer enjoying the process, or someone enjoying the condensed versions of the prints online.

Conclusion:

Watching 3D prints is a multi-faceted experience that engages different emotions and interests depending on whether you are a creator or a viewer. While creators find satisfaction in seeing their design come to life and spotting potential issues, viewers are captivated by the precision and mesmerising process. The use of time-lapses and remote monitoring adds another layer to how individuals experience the act of 3D printing. Ultimately the article concludes that appreciation for the process lies in the intersection of art and engineering and is down to the individual viewer.

The post Deep Dive : The Art of Watching 3D Prints with LM Notebook appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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Today, I’m addressing a significant issue affecting numerous Windows users worldwide. Reports have emerged of widespread crashes, commonly referred to as the “blue screen of death,” impacting various critical sectors, from transportation to banking and media.

I spoke with Sarah Julian at BBC Radio WM about the worldwide problems that continue to persist

Understanding the Issue:

The root cause of these crashes has been traced back to an overnight software update for CrowdStrike’s Falcon Sensor. For those unfamiliar, Falcon Sensor is a security tool designed to act as a sentinel for your computer, monitoring and protecting against malicious activities. A single corrupted system file from this update is causing Windows systems to crash upon booting.

Why This Matters:

Windows holds a substantial market share, with 72% of global computers running this operating system. The automatic update to Falcon Sensor has inadvertently introduced a fault, leading to these severe crashes. The update, once applied, seems to corrupt system functionality, causing the dreaded blue screen on countless machines.

Impact Across Sectors:

The ripple effect of this issue is profound. The update has disrupted services across various sectors:

  • Transportation: Both train and plane operations have been hampered.
  • Banking: Financial institutions are facing operational challenges, with payment systems affected.
  • Media: Broadcast systems have been affected, causing interruptions, including Sky News and CBBC.
  • Healthcare: NHS GP surgery systems are impacted, with reports of doctors having to handwrite prescriptions.
  • Emergency Services: Even essential services like emergency call centres have not been spared.
  • Airports: Airports, including Birmingham Airport, have reported issues with check-in services, and operations at the Port of Dover are also impacted.

Al Lakhani, CEO of IDEE, said:

“Many people might be thanking Microsoft for their accidental day off, but countless businesses are suffering due to Microsoft’s and their partners’ failure to maintain their services. This incident underscores the importance of businesses thoroughly researching and vetting their cybersecurity solutions before implementation. Microsoft clearly fell short in this regard, and we are witnessing a cascade of operational failures around the world as a result.”

“CrowdStrike’s platform approach, which relies on a single agent focused on detection, might seem good at first glance, but as we can see, it can create significant issues. For instance, agents require installation and maintenance of software on multiple different OSes, adding layers of complexity and potential points of failure. Moreover, agents can become a single point of failure, as a bad update can compromise the entire network, as seen with the SolarWinds attack.

“The lesson here is blindingly obvious: investing in cybersecurity is not just about acquiring the latest or most popular tools but ensuring those tools are reliable and resilient. This is why businesses must prioritise agentless solutions like MFA 2.0, which reduce the risk of widespread failures and ensure more resilient defences.”

Cloudstrike Falcon Sensor Blue Screen of Death BSOD Global OutageCurrent Status and Actions:

Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and stated that a fix is in place. However, this does not immediately rectify the situation for all affected devices. Many computers remain non-functional, and a manual fix may be required. One proposed solution involves removing the corrupted update link to restore system operations.

Security Concerns:

This incident raises critical questions about our reliance on third-party providers and the level of access they have to our systems. The Falcon Sensor update had kernel-level access, the deepest level of system access, which allowed it to cause such widespread disruption.

Tech Alert Windows Crashes Related to Falcon ServerMoving Forward:

As we navigate this challenging situation, it’s essential to stay informed and take proactive steps to secure our systems. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available and solutions are implemented.

For now, if you’re experiencing issues, consult with your IT department or follow the suggested manual fix to remove the problematic update. Manual intervention is likely to be needed to address the corrupted system file causing the crashes. Stay vigilant and prioritise your system’s security.

The post Global Windows Crash Crisis: Crowdstrike Falcon Sensor Update “Defect” Disrupts Key Sectors Worldwide appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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The We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024 were conducted by Gadget Man, Matt Porter, the founder of We Love Hitchin. Matt took the initiative to interview each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the General Election, providing an in-depth look at their visions and plans for the community.

Welcome to the We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024! As part of our series, we are sitting down with each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the upcoming General Election on the 4th of July 2024. In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Will Lavin, the Green Party candidate.

Join us as we delve into Will Lavin’s vision for Hitchin, exploring his plans for sustainable development, environmental protection, and community well-being. Discover his stance on key issues such as climate change, local economy, and social justice. Will shares his passion for creating a greener, fairer future for Hitchin and beyond.

Interview Breakdown00:00 Opening Titles 00:12 Introduction by Matt Porter, Founder of We Love Hitchin 01:07 Welcome Will Lavin

  • 01:19 Background and Motivation: Will Lavin discusses his background and what motivated him to run as a candidate for Hitchin.

03:10 Cost of Living Crisis

  • 03:26 Q1: What new policies will the Green Party introduce to help families struggling with the cost of living?
  • 03:30 A1: Will’s response detailing the proposed measures.

06:40 Q2: NHS and Healthcare

  • 06:56 A2: Will outlines the Green Party’s plans to address issues within the NHS, including appointment wait times and staffing shortages.

09:35 Q3: Economy

  • 10:00 A3: Strategies to address inflation, unemployment, and ensure economic stability.

13:10 Q4: Climate Change and The Environment

  • 13:30 A4: Measures to promote environmental sustainability in Hitchin.

17:54 Q5: Crime

  • 18:10 A5: Plans to enhance public safety and improve law enforcement effectiveness.

21:03 Q6: Housing

  • 22:01 A6: Measures to address housing affordability and availability, especially for younger people and those on lower incomes.

24:36 Q7: Roads

  • 25:09 A7: Addressing the appalling state of the roads and infrastructure improvements.

Community Questions

26:55 Andrea’s Question on Water Companies

  • 27:31 CQA1: Will’s response to bringing water companies back into public ownership.

29:11 Nyland and Lauren’s Question on Gaza War

  • 29:26 CQA2: Will’s stance on providing arms or assistance in the Gaza conflict and recognizing Palestine.

30:36 Jeremy’s Question on Digital Currency

  • 30:48 CQA3: Will’s perspective on digital currency and its implications.

32:03 Vanessa and Nicola’s Question on Special Education Needs

  • 33:00 CQA4: Will addresses concerns regarding SEN provision and pledges improved support and resources.

35:38 Will Addresses the Voters

  • 35:47: Will makes his closing appeal to the voters, explaining why they should vote for him on the 4th of July.

36:47 Thanks and Wrapping Up 37:49 End Titles


Election Results for Hitchin Constituency 2024The General Election results for the Hitchin Constituency have been announced. Here are the final tallies:

  • Bim Afolami (The Conservative Party Candidate): 14,958 votes
  • Charles Bunker (Reform UK): 6,760 votes
  • Sid Cordle (Christian Peoples Alliance): 181 votes
  • Will Lavin (Green Party): 2,631 votes
  • Chris Lucas (Liberal Democrats): 4,913 votes
  • Alistair Strathern (Labour Party): 23,067 votes – Elected

Congratulations to Alistair Strathern, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Hitchin! His victory marks a significant shift in the constituency, and we look forward to seeing his plans for Hitchin come to fruition.

The post The Gadget Man General Election Special Part Five – We Love Hitchin Interviews – Will Lavin Green Party Candidate for Hitchin Constituency appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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The We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024 were conducted by Gadget Man, Matt Porter, the founder of We Love Hitchin. Matt took the initiative to interview each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the General Election, providing an in-depth look at their visions and plans for the community.

Welcome to the We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024! As part of our series, we are sitting down with each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the upcoming General Election on the 4th of July 2024. In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Chris Lucas, the Liberal Democrat Party candidate for Hitchin.

Join us as we delve into Chris Lucas’s vision for Hitchin, exploring his plans for economic stability, public safety, and community development. Discover his stance on key issues such as infrastructure, business support, and education. Chris shares his dedication to fostering a prosperous and secure future for Hitchin and its residents.

Interview Breakdown00:00 Opening Titles 00:15 Introduction 01:13 Background and Motivation: Chris Lucas discusses his background and what motivated him to run for election in the new Hitchin Constituency.

03:23 Q1: Cost of Living Crisis

  • 03:43 A1: Chris Lucas outlines measures to help families struggling with the rising cost of living.
  • 06:04 Q1A: Do the Lib Dems want to rejoin the EU?
  • 06:20 A1A: Chris Lucas addresses the party’s stance on rejoining the EU.

11:20 Q2: NHS and Healthcare

  • 11:40 A2: Chris’s plans to improve healthcare services, reduce waiting times, and address staffing shortages.

16:40 Q3: Economy

  • 17:13 A3: Strategies to address inflation, unemployment, and ensure economic stability.

19:53 Q4: Climate Change and Environment

  • 20:08 A4: Measures to promote environmental sustainability in Hitchin.

24:10 Q5: Crime

  • 24:25 A5: Plans to improve personal safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement in the community.

31:00 Q6: Housing

  • 32:05 A6: Addressing the housing crisis, particularly focusing on affordability and availability for younger people and those on lower incomes.

40:32 Q7: Roads

  • 41:05 A7: Plans to improve the condition of roads and address issues like potholes.

Community Questions

44:44 Andrea’s Question on Water Companies

  • 45:18 CQA1: Chris’s response to bringing water companies back into public ownership.

47:17 Caroline’s Question on Waspies Compensation

  • 48:30 CQA2: Chris discusses the issue of compensation for ‘Waspies’.

50:34 Nyland and Lauren’s Question on Gaza War and Palestine Recognition

  • 50:49 CQA3: Chris’s stance on providing arms or assistance in the Gaza conflict and recognizing Palestine.

53:31 Vanessa and Nicola’s Question on Special Education Needs

  • 56:30 CQA4: Chris addresses concerns regarding SEN provision and pledges improved support and resources.

01:03:21 Chris Addresses the Voters

  • 01:03:36: Chris makes his closing appeal to the voters, explaining why they should vote for him on the 4th of July.

01:05:12 Thanks and Wrapping Up 01:06:46 End Titles


Election Results for Hitchin Constituency 2024The General Election results for the Hitchin Constituency have been announced. Here are the final tallies:

  • Bim Afolami (The Conservative Party Candidate): 14,958 votes
  • Charles Bunker (Reform UK): 6,760 votes
  • Sid Cordle (Christian Peoples Alliance): 181 votes
  • Will Lavin (Green Party): 2,631 votes
  • Chris Lucas (Liberal Democrats): 4,913 votes
  • Alistair Strathern (Labour Party): 23,067 votes – Elected

Congratulations to Alistair Strathern, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Hitchin! His victory marks a significant shift in the constituency, and we look forward to seeing his plans for Hitchin come to fruition.

The post The Gadget Man General Election Special Part Four – We Love Hitchin Interviews – Chris Lucas Liberal Democrats Party Candidate for Hitchin Constituency appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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The We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024 were conducted by Gadget Man, Matt Porter, the founder of We Love Hitchin. Matt took the initiative to interview each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the General Election, providing an in-depth look at their visions and plans for the community.

Welcome to the We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024! As part of our series, we are sitting down with each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the upcoming General Election on the 4th of July 2024. In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Charles Bunker, the Reform Party candidate for Hitchin.

Join us as we delve into Charles Bunker’s vision for Hitchin, exploring his plans for economic stability, public safety, and community development. Discover his stance on key issues such as infrastructure, business support, and education. Charles shares his dedication to fostering a prosperous and secure future for Hitchin and its residents.

Interview Breakdown00:00 Opening Titles 00:12 Important Message regarding the video recording 01:12 Introduction by Matt Porter, Founder of We Love Hitchin 01:07 Welcome Charles Bunker

  • 01:51 Background and Motivation: Charles discusses his background and what motivated him to run as a candidate for Hitchin.

06:50 Cost of Living Crisis

  • 06:53 Q1: What new policies will Reform UK introduce to help families struggling with the cost of living?
  • 07:10 A1: Charles’s response detailing the proposed measures.

11:23 Q2: NHS and Healthcare

  • 11:42 A2: Charles outlines Reform UK’s plans to fix issues within the NHS, including appointment wait times and staffing shortages.

18:04 Q3: Economy

  • 18:20 A3: Charles discusses strategies for addressing inflation, unemployment, and economic stability.

22:26 Q4: Climate Change and The Environment

  • 23:01 A4: Charles’s vision for tackling climate change and improving environmental policies.

29:10 Q5: Crime

  • 29:30 A5: Plans to enhance public safety and improve law enforcement effectiveness.

33:30 Q6: Housing

  • 34:12 A6: Measures to address housing affordability and availability, especially for younger people and those on lower incomes.

40:48 Q7: Roads

  • 41:22 A7: Addressing the appalling state of the roads and infrastructure improvements.

Community Questions

42:50 Andrea’s Question on Water Companies

  • 43:10 CQA1: Charles’s response to bringing water companies back into public ownership.

43:39 Martin’s Question on Artificial Intelligence

  • 43:50 CQA2: Charles’s thoughts on AI and ensuring its safe use.

45:40 Nyland and Lauren’s Question on Gaza War

  • 46:28 CQA3: Charles’s stance on providing arms or assistance in the Gaza conflict and recognizing Palestine.

49:34 Jeremy’s Question on Digital Currency

  • 50:00 CQA4: Charles’s perspective on digital currency and its implications.

52:50 Vanessa and Nicola’s Question on Special Education Needs

  • 53:53 CQA4: Charles addresses concerns regarding SEN provision and pledges improved support and resources.

57:33 Reform UK Questions

57:33 Nigel’s Question on Bureaucracy

  • 59:00 RUKA1: Charles’s response about reducing bureaucracy.

01:00:00 Question on Bureaucracy

  • 01:00:38 RUKA2: Additional plans for reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

01:02:00 Charles Addresses the Voters

  • 01:02:36: Charles makes his closing appeal to the voters.

01:03:20 Thanks and Wrapping Up 01:04:07 End Titles


Election Results for Hitchin Constituency 2024The General Election results for the Hitchin Constituency have been announced. Here are the final tallies:

  • Bim Afolami (The Conservative Party Candidate): 14,958 votes
  • Charles Bunker (Reform UK): 6,760 votes
  • Sid Cordle (Christian Peoples Alliance): 181 votes
  • Will Lavin (Green Party): 2,631 votes
  • Chris Lucas (Liberal Democrats): 4,913 votes
  • Alistair Strathern (Labour Party): 23,067 votes – Elected

Congratulations to Alistair Strathern, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Hitchin! His victory marks a significant shift in the constituency, and we look forward to seeing his plans for Hitchin come to fruition.

The post The Gadget Man General Election Special Part Three – We Love Hitchin Interviews – Charles Bunker Reform UK Party Candidate for Hitchin Constituency appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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The We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024 were conducted by Gadget Man, Matt Porter, the founder of We Love Hitchin.

Matt took the initiative to interview each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the General Election, providing an in-depth look at their visions and plans for the community.

You can view the interview below or listen to the podcast episode by clicking the play-head above.

Welcome to the We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024! As part of our series, we are sitting down with each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the upcoming General Election on the 4th of July 2024. In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Bim Afolami, the Conservative Party candidate.

Join us as we delve into Bim Afolami’s vision for Hitchin, exploring his plans for economic stability, public safety, and community development. Discover his stance on key issues such as infrastructure, business support, and education. Bim shares his dedication to fostering a prosperous and secure future for Hitchin and its residents.

Interview Breakdown00:00 Opening Titles 00:09 Welcome from Matt Porter, Founder of We Love Hitchin Facebook Group 01:09 Welcome to Bim Afolami

  • 01:16 Background and Motivation: Bim shares his background and explains his motivation for running in the new Hitchin Constituency.

02:06 Q1: Cost of Living Crisis

  • 02:33 A1: Bim discusses measures to alleviate financial pressures caused by the rising cost of living.

08:05 Q2: NHS and Healthcare

  • 08:37 A2: Bim outlines his plans to improve healthcare services, reduce waiting times, and address staffing shortages in the NHS.

12:40 Q3: Economy

  • 13:14 A3: Bim’s strategies for addressing inflation, unemployment, and ensuring economic stability.

17:44 Q5: Crime

  • 17:58 A5: Bim’s plans to enhance personal safety and improve the effectiveness of law enforcement in the community.

20:41 Q6: Housing

  • 20:57 A6: Measures to address the housing crisis, particularly focusing on affordability and availability for younger people and those on lower incomes.

Community Questions

23:32 Andrea’s Question on Water Companies

  • 24:45 Bim’s Response: Bim answers Andrea’s question about voting on a motion to bring water companies back into the public sector.

27:45 Nyland and Lauren’s Question on Gaza War and Palestine Recognition

  • 28:06 Bim’s Response: Bim discusses the provision of arms or assistance in the Gaza conflict and the recognition of Palestine as an independent state.

30:58 Vanessa and Nicola’s Question on Special Needs Education and Care

  • 31:49 Bim’s Response: Bim addresses the concerns of SEN families, pledging improved support and resources.

36:01 Bim’s Closing Appeal

  • 36:17 Bim asks for your vote: Bim Afolami explains why he should be chosen as the representative for Hitchin on the 4th of July.

39:11 Matt Porter’s Thanks and Closing Remarks 40:19 Closing Titles


Election Results for Hitchin Constituency 2024The General Election results for the Hitchin Constituency have been announced. Here are the final tallies:

  • Bim Afolami (The Conservative Party Candidate): 14,958 votes
  • Charles Bunker (Reform UK): 6,760 votes
  • Sid Cordle (Christian Peoples Alliance): 181 votes
  • Will Lavin (Green Party): 2,631 votes
  • Chris Lucas (Liberal Democrats): 4,913 votes
  • Alistair Strathern (Labour Party): 23,067 votes – Elected

Congratulations to Alistair Strathern, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Hitchin! His victory marks a significant shift in the constituency, and we look forward to seeing his plans for Hitchin come to fruition.

The post The Gadget Man General Election Special Part Two – We Love Hitchin Interviews – Bim Afolami Conservate Party Candidate for Hitchin Constituency appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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The We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024 were conducted by Gadget Man, Matt Porter, who is also the founder of We Love Hitchin.

Matt took the initiative to interview each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the General Election, providing an in-depth look at their visions and plans for the community.

You can view the interview below or listen to the podcast episode by clicking the play-head above.

Introduction and BackgroundThe interview kicked off with Matt Porter, the Founder of We Love Hitchin, welcoming Alistair Strathern. Alistair shared insights into his background and explained why he decided to run for this seat. His motivations are rooted in a deep commitment to the community and a desire to bring meaningful change to Hitchin.

Key Issues DiscussedCost of Living Crisis Alistair addressed the pressing issue of the cost of living crisis, outlining his plans to alleviate economic pressures on Hitchin residents. He emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable economic environment that supports all citizens.

NHS and Healthcare Healthcare was another major topic. Alistair spoke passionately about his vision for improving NHS services, ensuring that healthcare is accessible and efficient for everyone in the constituency.

Economy Discussing the economy, Alistair highlighted strategies for economic growth and stability. His plans focus on supporting local businesses and creating job opportunities to boost the local economy.

Climate Change and Environment On environmental issues, Alistair shared his approach to tackling climate change and promoting sustainability. His vision includes implementing green initiatives and supporting eco-friendly policies.

Crime Alistair also talked about measures to enhance safety and reduce crime in Hitchin. He stressed the need for a robust policing strategy and community engagement to create a safer environment.

Housing Addressing housing issues, Alistair discussed his plans to increase affordable housing and improve living conditions for all residents. He highlighted the importance of providing quality housing to support a thriving community.

Roads Infrastructure and road maintenance were also on the agenda. Alistair outlined his proposals for improving the condition of roads and ensuring better connectivity within Hitchin.

Community QuestionsPublic Ownership of Water Companies Andrea, a community member, asked about Alistair’s stance on bringing water companies back into public ownership. Alistair expressed his support for this move, emphasizing the importance of keeping essential resources under public control.

AI Safety Martin raised concerns about artificial intelligence and its safe use. Alistair acknowledged the potential risks of AI and advocated for stringent regulations to ensure it is used responsibly.

Gaza War and Palestine Recognition Nyland and Lauren asked about providing assistance in the Gaza conflict and recognizing Palestine as an independent state. Alistair shared his views on international policy and humanitarian aid, emphasizing the need for a balanced and compassionate approach.

Support for Special Needs Children Vanessa and Nicola, who have special needs children, asked about support for SEN families. Alistair pledged to improve resources and funding for special needs education and social care, aiming to provide better support for these vulnerable families.

Closing RemarksIn his closing remarks, Alistair Strathern appealed to the voters, highlighting his dedication to representing Hitchin and addressing its key issues. He urged the community to vote for him on the 4th of July, promising to work tirelessly for a fairer and more inclusive future.


Election Results for Hitchin Constituency 2024The General Election results for the Hitchin Constituency have been announced. Here are the final tallies:

  • Bim Afolami (The Conservative Party Candidate): 14,958 votes
  • Charles Bunker (Reform UK): 6,760 votes
  • Sid Cordle (Christian Peoples Alliance): 181 votes
  • Will Lavin (Green Party): 2,631 votes
  • Chris Lucas (Liberal Democrats): 4,913 votes
  • Alistair Strathern (Labour Party): 23,067 votes – Elected

Congratulations to Alistair Strathern MP, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Hitchin! His victory marks a significant shift in the constituency, and we look forward to seeing his plans for Hitchin come to fruition.

Watch and ListenDon’t miss the full interview with Alistair Strathern! Watch it on our YouTube channel and listen to the podcast episode available on all major platforms. Your support and engagement help us bring more insightful content and coverage of important local issues.

Stay tuned for more updates and interviews on The Gadget Man and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe.

The post The Gadget Man General Election Special Part One – We Love Hitchin Interviews – Alistair Strathern Labour Party Candidate for Hitchin Constituency appeared first on Matt Porter, The Gadget Man - AI, Technology News and Reviews.

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Today I had the pleasure of chatting with Trish Adudu on her drivetime show on BBC Radio CWR about Jailbroken Streaming Devices.

In the golden era of television, our choices were simple, defined by the limited channels available through traditional broadcast. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has dramatically shifted. The digital revolution has ushered in an age where streaming platforms are king, offering a cornucopia of content that was once unimaginable. Yet, with this abundance comes a new set of challenges for consumers navigating the costs and legalities of accessing their favorite shows and movies.

Enter the controversial world of jailbroken or “dodgy” fire sticks. These modified devices promise a world of free content, bypassing the subscription fees of mainstream streaming services. At first glance, the allure is undeniable. Who wouldn’t want access to endless entertainment without the hefty price tag? But as we peel back the layers, the darker implications of these devices come to light.

The Legal Grey Zone

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge the elephant in the room: jailbroken fire sticks are illegal. Despite their widespread availability and the somewhat cavalier attitude some may have towards using them, they pose significant legal risks to users. Beyond the risk of fines or legal action, there’s a deeper issue at play here—the ethics of content consumption. In our quest for convenience and cost-saving, we must ask ourselves: at what price does this come to the creators and distributors of the content we consume?

The Cost of Convenience

The debate over streaming platforms’ pricing structures is valid, especially in a world grappling with rising living costs. However, turning to illegal alternatives like jailbroken fire sticks isn’t a victimless crime. It undermines the very industry that entertains us, potentially stifling the creation of new content. Moreover, the risks extend beyond legal ramifications. Using these devices can expose users to cybersecurity threats, including theft of personal and financial information. Trusting one’s digital safety to the hands of unknown, potentially criminal entities is a gamble few should be willing to take.

A Fragmented Marketplace

The current streaming landscape is indeed fragmented, with exclusive content spread across numerous platforms. This exclusivity can lead to subscription fatigue, as consumers find themselves subscribing to multiple services to access all the content they desire—a costly endeavor. This fragmentation fuels the temptation to seek out illegal alternatives. Yet, it also calls for a discussion on the sustainability of the current model and the need for more consumer-friendly solutions.

Looking Forward

As we navigate the evolving world of digital content consumption, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. While the allure of free content is undeniable, the risks and ethical implications of jailbroken streaming devices cannot be overlooked. It’s a reminder of the need for a balanced approach that respects the rights of content creators while also considering the affordability and accessibility for consumers. Perhaps the future will bring more innovative solutions to this dilemma, but until then, the debate rages on.

The gadget world is vast and ever-changing, but as we venture into its depths, let’s tread carefully, mindful of the legal and ethical boundaries that govern our digital playground.

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In this latest episode of The Gadget Man, Matt unravels the long-standing myth about using rice to dry out wet mobile phones.

Despite its popularity, this method is debunked as ineffective and potentially harmful.

The Gadget Man – Episode 178: Rice, Phones, and Chili Con Carne: Debunking Tech Myths with Malcolm BoydenApple itself has issued guidance against it, warning that rice grains can damage the device by blocking ports and causing corrosion. Instead,

Matt suggests allowing the phone to dry out naturally in a dry, airy place, highlighting modern phones’ water resistance capabilities and the importance of gentle care in case of water exposure.

Rice can damage devicesThe conversation takes a lighter turn with a humorous suggestion for the best use of rice: making chili-con-carne, adding a flavourful twist to the tech discussion.

Dropping your phone in water is now not the disaster it used to beThis episode not only clears up a common misconception but also serves up a side of humour, making it a must-listen for tech enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe and share!

See you next time!

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Note: Listening to the attached Podcast is a must for this article.

UPDATE Correct link updated!

Hello, fellow gadget lovers and tech enthusiasts! It’s me again, your friendly neighbourhood Gadget Man, diving into another thrilling tech adventure. Today, I’m stepping into the futuristic realm of text-to-speech technology. But hold onto your hats, because this isn’t just any text-to-speech; we’re talking about cloning your own voice using the latest AI systems!

Remember those sci-fi movies where characters would replicate their voices using high-tech gadgets? Well, guess what? That future is now, and I’ve just had a mind-blowing experience with it. Imagine creating audio that sounds almost 100% identical to your real voice. Sounds like something out of a dream, right? But it’s real, and I’ve done it!

https://www.thegadgetman.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/animate_seed6898830117836334_upscaled.mp4I used a cutting-edge tool from Eleven Labs – yes, the name already sounds like it’s straight out of a sci-fi novel. This technology is so advanced that it can capture the unique nuances of your voice, and then, using AI, it replicates it to create eerily accurate audio. The result? A voice clone that sounds just like me!

Now, you might be wondering, “Is he pulling our leg? Is this for real?” Well, to prove it, the audio you’re hearing in this blog post was created using this very technology. That’s right, you’re not actually hearing me but my digital voice twin! Amazing, isn’t it?

But here’s the kicker – if you’re as excited about this as I am and want to clone your own voice, you can do it too. And here’s how: through our unique affiliate link. That’s right, we’ve teamed up with Eleven Labs to bring you this fantastic opportunity. By using our link, you can jump straight into creating your voice clone.

https://www.thegadgetman.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/animate_seed3950021203508335_upscaled.mp4A little heads-up, though. If you decide to sign up for their paid subscription, we may earn a small commission. But hey, that’s just a small part of supporting our journey to bring you the coolest, most cutting-edge tech insights.

So, why would you want to clone your voice? Well, the applications are endless. From personalizing your digital assistant to creating your podcast episodes, even when you’re too busy to record – the sky’s the limit! And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to do it. The process is user-friendly and quite intuitive.

In conclusion, stepping into the world of AI voice cloning has been an absolute thrill. It’s not just about the fun or the novelty; it’s about embracing a technology that’s reshaping how we interact with our digital world. Voice cloning might sound like a small step, but believe me, it’s a giant leap in the realm of personal digital expression.

https://www.thegadgetman.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/animate_seed7246279345379017_upscaled.mp4So, what are you waiting for? Click on our affiliate link and start your voice cloning adventure. Who knows, maybe your AI clone will be writing the next blog post for you!

Until next time, this is the Gadget Man, signing off – or should I say, my digital twin is signing off!

For more information, click or scan the QR Code below or simply visit https://revw.uk/elevenlabs

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I was delighted to talk to Vic Minett on BBC Radio CWR this morning about app trends in 2023. Building on that exciting conversation, welcome to our tech blog, where we delve into the dynamic world of mobile apps in the UK. Today, we explore the prevailing trends of 2023, spotlighting the most popular apps and an exciting service from Starling Bank.

Mobile App Trends in 2023

The past few years have reshaped mobile app marketing. The pandemic-induced demand surge has now given way to a focus on long-term retention and privacy. Marketers must be adaptable, and efficient, and prioritize personalisation. As privacy regulations tighten, holistic performance assessment becomes critical​.

Popular Apps in the UK

In 2022, Facebook and Messenger led the pack, with WhatsApp and Instagram following closely. Notably, Instagram shows a notable gender disparity in its user base. In the realm of e-commerce, Amazon, eBay, and Apple dominated mobile shopping​.

Starling Bank’s “Share the Load” Service

In the midst of these trends, Starling Bank’s “Share the Load” initiative stands out. Aimed at fostering financial equality within households, this service exemplifies how financial institutions are innovating to meet modern needs. It’s a reflection of how apps are evolving beyond traditional confines to play more significant roles in our daily lives​​.

Apps to Watch

Video content remains dominant, with TikTok leading the charge. Gen Z’s preferences are steering the market towards platforms like BeReal​.

Conclusion

The mobile app landscape in 2023 is defined by privacy, personalization, and user experience. With apps like those from Starling Bank pushing boundaries, the sector continues to innovate and adapt. Stay tuned for more insights into the ever-evolving world of technology.

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This morning, I had an enlightening discussion with Tammy Gooding on BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester regarding the ongoing broadband infrastructure enhancements, particularly in light of the Copper Switch-off as announced by Openreach. This move is all about transitioning from the traditional copper wire systems to a more robust and faster digital infrastructure, aiming to future-proof our towns and villages.

However, not everyone seems to be on board with this tech transition, as exemplified by the recent uproar in the picturesque Worcestershire village of Broadway. The crux of the matter unfurled as broadband poles started sprouting up, much to the dismay of the local populace. It seems Full Fibre, the provider spearheading this initiative, hit a nerve when their wooden poles, standing tall at up to 11 meters, started altering the village skyline.

The discontent among the residents morphed into a full-blown protest, with nearly 80 individuals rallying to halt the erection of these broadband poles in Avrill Close. The agitation escalated when a 75-year-old villager, David Owen, took a stance quite literally by spending more than four hours in one of the lorries brought in by the contractors.

This brings us to the question – is the infrastructural overhaul a necessary leap towards a digital future or an imposition disregarding the public sentiment? I tend to lean towards the necessity of upgrading our digital infrastructure, especially when the world is rapidly shifting towards a more connected existence. The Copper Switch off, as discussed on Openreach’s blog post, is a significant stride towards ensuring that the UK’s telecommunications infrastructure is not left in the digital dust.

The saga in Broadway sheds light on the teething issues that such infrastructural transitions entail. On one side, we have Full Fibre asserting their commitment to addressing concerns and emphasizing the critical nature of their work in upgrading the UK’s digital skeleton. On the flip side, the residents feel slighted, their concerns seemingly brushed under the rug, as they see these poles as nothing more than “ugly eyesores” marring their beautiful village.

Lisa Kelly, a villager, encapsulated the general sentiment by stating that they already have satisfactory broadband speeds and do not see the need for these poles. The word “disenfranchised” was used, painting a picture of a community feeling left out of a decision that directly impacts them.

The episode also invited the presence of West Mercia Police officers to ensure the situation remained under control, illustrating the extent of discord between the advancement of digital infrastructure and public approval.

These infrastructural enhancements are a double-edged sword. They promise a digital leap but at the cost of unsettling the communal harmony, at least temporarily. The Broadway scenario is a microcosm of the broader dialogue between technological advancement and community consent.

The future is exciting, but the path there should be paved with understanding and cooperation.

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In the rapidly evolving world of technology, it’s easy to forget the gadgets and gizmos that once dominated our lives. Today, we’ll take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the tech tools that have faded into the annals of history.

  1. Floppy Disks and CD-ROMs:
    Once, the clunky floppy disks and shimmering CD-ROMs were our only recourse to data storage and transfer. They have now gracefully bowed out, making way for sleek USB drives, capacious external hard drives, and the omnipresent cloud storage that promises accessibility from every corner of the globe.
  2. VHS Tapes and VCRs:
    The ritual of rewinding VHS tapes and the magic of VCRs bringing images to life on screen are chapters from a bygone era. They’ve been overshadowed by the crisp clarity of DVDs, Blu-rays, and the instant gratification delivered by streaming services.
  3. Fax Machines:
    The whirring and buzzing of fax machines, once music to the ears of office-goers have been replaced by the silent, instantaneous delivery of emails and other digital communication channels.
  4. BlackBerry:Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.Once the pinnacle of business communication with its iconic QWERTY keyboard, BlackBerry has been overshadowed by the touchscreen revolution led by smartphones that offer an array of features and applications making communication and management seamless.
  5. The Pager:
    The humble pager, a precursor to the mobile revolution, once clipped to belts, has quietly retreated to the shadows as smartphones dominate the communication landscape with various features unimaginable back in the day.
  6. Film Cameras:
    The instant gratification of digital photography has replaced the thrill of loading film and the patience of development. Though a niche of enthusiasts still cherishes the craft of film photography, digital cameras and smartphones have become our lenses to the world.
  7. CRT Monitors:
    The bulky CRT monitors that once occupied desks were replaced by sleek LCD and LED monitors, marking a significant leap in aesthetics and technology.
  8. Cassette Tapes and Players:
    The tactile joy of flipping a cassette tape is a forgotten pleasure. Digital audio and streaming services have ensnared the auditory senses with a promise of endless playlists.
  9. Typewriters:
    The rhythmic clacking of typewriter keys is a sound from a bygone era, replaced by the soft tapping on modern-day keyboards as computers and word-processing software took over.
  10. Rotary Phones:
    The nostalgic spin of the rotary dial has been replaced by the swift taps on touch-tone and mobile phones, making communication faster and smoother.

Each piece of outdated technology carries with it stories and memories that shaped the era they belonged to. As we embrace the new, it’s a sweet reminiscence to look back at the tech relics that paved the path for today’s digital wonderland.

You can also listen in to my chat with Steve Ladner on BBC Radio Kent by clicking on the play button at the top of the post

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I’m back again for a new episode of the podcast which features me chatting to Lesley Dolphin at BBC Radio Suffolk about Apples plans to allow their devices to be repaired. Pretty much everyone is in shock at this decision, which isn’t quite as welcome as it could be. Listen in to the stream to … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 173 – Repair your own Apple devices? →

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Yesterday, I had the pleasure of talking to Tim Shepherd, Senior Director of Bullitt Group. Bullitt is the sole manufacturer and license holder of CAT Smartphones and Feature-phones. You can also read the announcement of the CAT S42 Smartphone During the interview, Tim talks in-depth about the ‘Anti-Microbial’ CAT S42 Smartphone which is the world’s … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 172 – Cat S42 Smartphone →

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It’s a day of celebration for gaming fans as Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) launches its next-generation console, PlayStation®5 (PS5™), in the UK. Today, I spoke to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about the new console, listen in to the attached audio to hear more, otherwise, read on! “Today marks a historic moment for the … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 171 – Fans and Sony Celebrate as the PS5 Launches in the UK →

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Welcome to Gadget Man Episode 170, here I talk to James Hazell at BBC Radio Suffolk about the CAT S62 Pro mobile phone with FLIR thermal imaging camera, the Humax Aura Android TV 4K Freeview Play Recorder, and the issues that some owners of Ring doorbells have been experiencing due to incorrect installation. I will … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 170 – Cat S62 Pro with Thermal Imaging, Humax Aura 4K Freeview Box and problems with Ring →

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In this episode, I chat to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about the ban on locking mobile phone handsets in the UK. Mobile phone companies will be banned from selling ‘locked’ handsets, under a range of new rules from Ofcom that will make switching even simpler. Some companies – including BT/EE, Tesco Mobile and Vodafone – … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 169 – Ofcom orders Phone Networks to Stop Locking Phones + Advice and Tips about Switching Networks →

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This is the slightly delayed episode from 15th October 2020. Packed with lots of news and comment. Here I discuss the Snakebyte E-Sports Starter Kit Package , Covid Track and Trace, the Ordo Sonic+ Toothbrush and the iPhone 12 (in four different sizes!). You can listen in to the recording above or subscribe using your … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 168 – Snakebyte E-Sports Starter Kit – Covid Track and Trace – Ordo Sonic+ Toothbrush – iPhone 12 →

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Having spent the summer starting new businesses, building websites and gadgets, as well as building global distribution networks and running the home for a short while, I return with my latest review and podcast episode. This week I am talking to James Hazell at BBC Radio Suffolk about the NHS England Track and Trace App … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 167 – Kebao Air 3 – Game Changing Air Purification arrives in the UK →

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Following up on my previous blog post avoiding phishing emails, I present the audio version, but is it really me at all? Tune in and listen, and do let me know what you think? See you next time! Stay Safe, Matt  

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Today, I spoke to Rob Dunger on Radio Felixstowe about getting going with video calls using Zoom, Houseparty, Skype, Messenger or Google Meet! You can listen to the segment via the attached file or read the Is was great to catch up with Rob after so long! Matt Porter: [00:00:00] Well, we, we start with, … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 165 – How to get going with video calls with Rob Dunger from Felixstowe Radio →

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Yesterday myself and industry expert, Dario Talmesio, Principal Analyst & Practice Leader at Omdia spoke to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about the COVID-19 / 5G Conspiracy Theory. You can listen to the stream above or read on to find out more. 5G has been under attack by conspiracy theorists for as long as … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 164 – Debunking the COVID-19 / 5G Conspiracy Theory →

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The Coronavirus / Covid-19 crisis continues to affect the entire world. With the newly introduced restrictions of movement of people in the UK, today I spoke to James Hazell at BBC Radio Suffolk about how such a large increase in people at home can affect our Broadband Speeds and what we can do to get … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 163 – Improving Broadband Speeds and Setting up Video Calling →

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Such are the strange times we live in, many of us now face working from home for the first time along with caring for our children. I have worked from home extensively over the past 20 years and I thought I would try and share some tips on how I have been able to work … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 162 – Working From Home During the Coronavirus / Covid-19 Crisis →

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In this week’s Gadget Man, I talk to James Hazell about phantom phone calls when phones are set to silent, Zombie Bot Networks, Dyson Hair Straighteners and VAT is finally removed from eBooks! You can listen to the stream (above) or play the video (below) James Hazell: [00:00:00] It’s time. We looked at technology, several … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 161 – Phantom Calls – Zombie Bots – Hair Straighteners – VAT Free eBooks →

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This week’s Podcast / Vlog-cast comes from the second floor of Gadget Towers! In this episode, I talk to James Hazell at BBC Radio Suffolk about Apple’s class action settlement regarding the perceived slowing down of older iPhone models. Running a website with an SSL certificate from Let’s Encrypt? Check that you don’t need to … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 160 – Apple Settles for $500m – SSL Issues – Boston Dynamics →

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This morning was the final of my Mix Tape tracks played by James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk. I’ve attached the YouTube playlist yet again below which will play the interview followed by the track. Two Tribes, by Frankie Goes To Hollywood, is a truly incredible track which absolutely blew the music scene away back … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 159 – James Hazell Mix Tape Part 4 – Two Tribes – Frankie Goes To Hollywood →

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“I think that there are great ideas which sometimes are rolled out by the wrong people.” This morning was the third of my Mix Tape tracks played by James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk. I’ve attached the YouTube playlist again below which will play the interview followed by the track. This is a track which … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 158 – James Hazell Mix Tape Part 3 – Coldplay – What If? →

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This morning was the second of my Mix Tape tracks played by James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk. I’ve attached the YouTube playlist again below which will play the interview followed by the track. This is probably one of my favourite pieces of music ever, I don’t know quite where I first heard it, but … Continue reading Gadget Man Episode 157 – James Hazell Mix Tape Part 2 – Energy 52 – Cafe Del Mar →

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Motor manufacturer, Kia, have today released a report detailing two pieces of customer research in November 2019 and January 2020, speaking to 3000 UK residents between 16 and 60 about their views on moving to Electric from Petrol or Diesel cars. The research revealed that almost half of those interviewed admitted to over-exaggerating their green … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 156 – is Society Ready for the Electric Car with Quentin Willson →

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This morning was the first of my Mix Tape tracks played by James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk. I’ve attached the YouTube playlist below which will play the interview followed by the track. The transcript of the interview follows below. Gadget Man Mix Tape – Part 1 James Hazell: The mixed tape all this week … Continue reading Gadget Man Episode 155 – James Hazell Mix Tape Part 1 – The Beloved – Satellite →

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More and more businesses are being targeted by criminals who are hijacking there websites and online accounts in order to blackmail them. Here I am talking to Georgie Jameson on BBC Radio Suffolk about what small businesses can do to protect themselves from these kinds of attacks.

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This morning I spoke to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about the benefits of Dash Cams in cars. During the interview, we discussed both the negatives and positives of these devices and how they can be used as an Independent Witness of an accident or other car-related crime. I’ve been reviewing the Nextbase 422GW … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 153 – Talking about Dashcams →

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This week I travelled to London to take part in the Hyundai Drive Different Test. In my previous post, I provided details on the thinking behind this initiative. Today, I spoke to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about my experience and what I think made driving each car different. Listen to the stream above … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 152 – Hyundai Drive Different Test – Radio Interview →

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I was hugely excited to be invited to London yesterday to take part in the Hyundai Drive Different Test. During the day, I had the opportunity to drive both a Petrol and Electric powered Hyundai Kona around the streets of Finsbury Park and Highgate. You can watch the video below or listen in to the … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 151 – Hyundai Drive Different Test in London →

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Apparently using your Laptop in a Cafe at the weekend is no longer a ‘thing’. According to the Daily Mail, a cafe owner in Belsize Park has placed a ban on the use of laptops during weekend hours because it takes up valuable space during busy periods. The ban has caused a regular customer to … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 150 – Should we use our Smartphones, Tablets and Laptops in Cafes? →

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Welcome to Episode 149 – It’s all go again with the mobile phone market in the UK, the confusion surrounding Mobile Virtual Network Operators and actual network operators becomes confusing again! Virgin Mobile is currently carried by EE which in turn is owned by arch-rival BT, so now Virgin is moving to Vodafone. It shouldn’t … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 149 – Virgin goes from EE, via BT to Vodafone, Britbox launches and Drone Registration is now compulsory →

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Yikes!!! From a few weeks back! Here is Episode 148 where I spoke to James Hazell about Three, Vodafone and Samsung… Oh, I also got cut off from Facetime during the conversation. All the issues are resolved now, but it should make informative listening. From Thur 18th October 2019 Image Credit: By comedy_nose under CC … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 148 – Better Late than… Matt got cut off, Three was down, Vodafone had billing problems and Samsung’s Fingerprint Sensor was bust →

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In the final episode of my Retro Gadget of the Week, I bring you the Nintendo Game Boy. This is an exclusive episode which was never broadcast. I’d like to be able to say it was too hot for broadcast, but in reality, it never made it because of time constraints on BBC Radio Suffolk. … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 146 – Retro Gadget of the Week – Part 10 – Nintendo Game Boy →

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So what has been happening in the Electric Car market over the past couple of years? Well, since my slew of Electric and Hybrid car reviews a couple of years back and our mega-exciting East-West Road Trip in the Tesla Model S 100D, we’ve been quiet on that front.  The absolute opposite of what has … Continue reading Gadget Man Episode 145 – Electric Car Update? →

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In our penultimate episode of Retro Gadget of the Week, we take a look at one the most revolutionary moments in computer history,  where an explosion of homegrown talent changed the very face of the personal computer marketplace and faced up directly the power of Silicon Valley with low-cost home computers designed in the UK … Continue reading Gadget Man Episode 144 – Retro Gadget of the Week – Part 9 – 80s Home Computers →

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All intelligent science is informing us that it is now past the time to start thinking about our planet and how we should be treating it before we reach its tipping point, the time when we can no longer begin to undo the damage that the human race has inflicted upon it. Our oceans are … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 143 – Green Manufacturing Using Bioplastics →

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We’re now on the home straight with the Retro Gadgets Series and what better classic gadget to feature but the legendary Nokia 3310 mobile phone. This is certainly a gadget that needs very little introduction, after being introduced in 2000, the handset went on to sell more than 126,000,000 units. What’s more, the handset continues … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 142 – Retro Gadget Part 8 – Nokia 3310 Mobile Phone →

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The UK Government’s ‘Department for Health and Social Care’ have today announced a collaboration between themselves and Multi-Billion Dollar tech firm Amazon to provide NHS website information via the popular Alexa platform. With immediate effect, UK owners of the Alexa based devices such as the Amazon Echo and Echo Dot will now be able to … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 141 – Amazon Alexa is now providing NHS Medical Advice →

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Before the age of privatisation of utility companies in the United Kingdom, the General Post Office (GPO) of the United Kingdom was responsible solely for the provision of telecommunication services for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The notable exception was Kingston Upon Hull which has been granted the licence to provide it’s own telephone … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 140 – Retro Gadgets Part 7 – The GPO Telephone Handset →

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We’re now at part six of the Retro Gadget series. This week I spoke to Matt Marvell at BBC Radio Suffolk about the absolutely amazing Breville Sandwich Toaster! Many a Saturday lunchtime in my youth was provided by this gadget. Where I would mostly find my toasted sandwich contained ham, cheese and tomato, I found … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 139 – Retro Gadgets Part 6 – The Breville Sandwich Toaster →

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Keeping backup copies of your data has never been so important and only this week it has been revealed that a fire at Universal Music has resulted in the loss of the original master tapes of some of the worlds most famous artists. To compound the issue, the backups were kept in the same vaults … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 138 – Universal Music and the Importance of Backing up Your Data →

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We reach the fifth part of our series on Retro Gadgets and in this one, we focus on the 1st Format Wars where VHS fought Betamax for dominance in the VCR format battle for supremacy. During the ’80s, video entertainment came home with the introduction of the Video Cassette Recorder and with it came competing … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 137 – Retro Gadgets Part 5 – VHS vs Betamax →

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Apple has now officially announced that they are splitting the iTunes app into THREE different services in the next few months. The 3 apps will focus on Music, TV and Podcasts and will finally separate these services from the iTunes app which was initially written synchronise copy-protected music to and from the first iPods. Listen … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 136 – What is happening to iTunes? →

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In this episode, I talk to Matt Marvell at BBC Radio Suffolk about the SodaStream. The SodaStream is a fizzy drink machine which uses CO2 gas forced under pressure into an attached bottle of fresh water. After fizzing has taken place, the user adds their choice of flavoured concentrate to the water and thus create … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 135 – Retro Gadget Part 4 – SodaStream →

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Now we have reached the third part of our Retro Gadget series, we go left-field by selecting something that has been a part of peoples dining rooms for many many years. Yes, I’m talking about the Hostess Trolley, a dining gadget that has been keeping our dinner party food warm for many years. Listen in … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 134 – Retro Gadget Part 3 – Hostess Trolleys →

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In this podcast episode, I speak to Mark Murphy at BBC Radio Suffolk about reports that Smart Speakers are now taking parents places by reading stories to children. BookTrust surveyed 1000 parents and discovered that 25% have used Alexa or Siri to read stories to their children. Here I discuss the survey with Mark and … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 133 – Alexa is now reading Bedtime Stories →

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In the second of my 10 Retro Gadgets of the Week, I talk about arguably one of the most important inventions of the 20th century! Don’t forget to listen in to the podcast link above where I talk about the gadget and its functions. Sony Walkman The Sony Walkman was a portable cassette player launched … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 132 – Retro Gadgets – Part Two – Sony Walkman →

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This week begins a 10 week series of Retro Gadgets. Technology which has featured in my life and evokes childhood memories. Listen in on the audio recording above. I have included a surprise at the end which wasn’t recorded at the time.  If you grew up in the  ’70s or ’80s, you may have experienced … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 131 – Retro Gadgets – Part One – Casio MG-880 Music and Game Calculator →

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Many of us will remember the halcyon days when upgrading our mobile phone handsets was a six-month event. No so now it would seem, instead, we are waiting much longer and are clearly looking for greater incentives to part with our beloved devices and even more importantly, our money. You can listen into my interview … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 130 – Why are people not upgrading their phones as often? →

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It was great to be on BBC Radio Suffolk this morning, talking with Wayne Bavin about Gadgets used in the home. Following the first episode of Hard to Please OAP’s on ITV1, I spoke to Wayne about Gadgets which are used regularly and less regularly in our homes. It was fun to chat about Soda-Stream, … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 129 – Gadgets in the Home →

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It only seems like yesterday when I was talking about the World Wide Web turning 25 years old and now before we know it, it’s now 30 years since the first HTML web page was authored and published by Sir Tim Berners-Lee. The Web is, without doubt, the greatest invention of all time. It has … Continue reading Gadget Man Episode 128 – The World Wide Web turns 30!! →

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Who would have believed that at the dawn of the World Wide Web 30 years ago that almost all of our lives would be controlled via logins and passwords exchanged over the internet? Whilst it is incredibly convenient to be able to access our bank accounts, insurance policies, email, social networks, discussion forums and many … Continue reading Gadget Man Episode 127 – What happens to my passwords after I’ve gone? →

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For the last 24 hours, there has been collective panic across the digital world! Was this panic caused by the continued disaster that is the Brexit negotiations and repeated House of Commons votes? No, it was because the worlds largest Social Networks were failing all around us. Literally MILLIONS of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp users … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 126 – Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp were DOWN!!! →

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Some 30 years ago, I was inexplicably drawn into a high-speed car chase across my home town of Hitchin. When I left The Bird in Hand in Gosmore on that rainy night in 1987, I had no idea that the following 10 or so minutes would stay with me until now. In my case, I … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 125 – What to do if you are involved in a car chase →

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How many of us own and drive a vehicle with a keyless entry system? Well, it appears that many thousands of us that do have woken up this morning to a very worrying report from the General German Automobile Club (ADAC), In order to unlock your keyless entry vehicle, you simply need to carry your … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 124 – Keyless Car Theft Explained and How to Stop it →

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Earlier in the week, I spoke to Mark Murphy on BBC Radio Suffolk about the demise of the Yellow Pages directory. The Yellow Pages was always sat alongside the equally large Phone Book, but had gradually declined over the years since the introduction of the Internet and increasing dominance of search engines such as Google … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 123 – The Demise of the Yellow Pages →

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Last week, I spoke with James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about the new film classifications and how they can be applied to online video streaming sites. I also discussed YouTube’s ban on videos that contain or encourage dangerous pranks that endanger people or could cause harm to people copying them. Following a public consultancy of more than … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 122 – Are We Influenced By Movies And Media? →

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As we enter the final year of the second decade of the 21st century, the smartphone will surely be considered the most revolutionary gadget of the last 10 years. Our phones are now firmly ingrained in our lives, joining us at home, at work, at play, at the dinner table, in bed, they come with … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 121 – Too Much Smartphone Part III →

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As the new year dawns, we again look back, but this time it’s more than 30 years to yet another audio format resurgence. Now that Vinyl has once again become freely available to the masses after being all but condemned by CD’s, MP3’s and then streaming music, another format becomes the trend of choice. Yes, … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 120 – The Resurgence of the Cassette →

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Another year passes and as we move into 2019 we can look forward to another year of unstoppable advances in technology. If I was able to predict upcoming tech, I’m happy to suggest that my number one for 2019 will be the folding mobile phone with potential devices from LG and Samsung already breaking cover … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 119 – Technology to look out for in 2019 →

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Not a day passes without one of our Facebook friends informing us of the hacking attempts, breached accounts or worse. Most of this information is incorrect, but of course, it is good for people to remain vigilant at all times. I spoke to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about Facebook ‘hacks’ and explained the … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 118 – Facebook Hacking Scams Explained →

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Dashcams have officially become commonplace in society. As more and more drivers use our roads, the chances of accidents increase and being able to accurately document such unfortunate incidents has become more important than ever, especially with the rise in fraudulent claims. I spoke to Mark Murphy on BBC Radio Suffolk about the use of dashcams … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 117 – The benefits of Dashcams →

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Twenty years ago, we all relied on photographic film when taking pictures of friends, family or interesting places and landmarks. We were always very careful how and when we took these photos as at the time exposures were limited to either 24 or 36, there was also the case of having the photos developed by … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 116 – Digital Photo Overload →

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With the incredible rise in popularity of on-demand streaming services from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Google Play, NowTV, Rakatun and more, there is now no better time to watch our favourite movies and TV programmes. We are not just simply watching TV, we are ‘consuming’ it! This fascination and above all, choice of programming has led … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 115 – To Binge or Not to Binge? The Rise and Rise of Streaming TV →

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You might remember a few weeks back, I talked about how smartphones have now officially taken over our lives, squeezing into every social, domestic and work situation. Today, I spoke to James Hazell on BBC Radio Suffolk about how our very Government is considering investigating how to make the use of a smartphone safer for … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 114 – Too Much Smartphone Part II →

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Following reports of an increase in car-related crime, I spoke to Mark Murphy on BBC Radio Suffolk about what can be done to reduce the chances of falling foul to Keyless Car Crime. Keyless Keyfobs are devices that have come to replace the ‘traditional’ car entry methods which required us to actively press a lock/unlock … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 113 – What is Keyless Car Crime? →

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The Genie is now officially out of the bottle! We use our smartphones too much! Most of us will already know this though, how could we miss it? You only have to travel on buses, trains and planes to see myriads of people sitting quietly staring at their smart phones, glued to Facebook, Snapchat or … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 112 – Too Much Smartphone! →

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The cashless society is economic model that removes physical money from our wallets and replaces it with fully digital transactions. So, we no longer carry banknotes and coins, instead we carry our traditional bank cards or mobile devices. These transactions can be made in our home currencies (in my case Pound Sterling), an international currency … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 111 – Cashless Society →

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Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has announced proposals to change building regulations to encourage the mandatory installation of electric vehicle charge points in new homes and offices. New street lighting columns which service on-street parking will also have charging points in appropriate locations. Along with these changes, the government has also promised more money to fund … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 110 – Electric Vehicle Charge Points in the home →

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On Friday I spoke to Jenny Kendall-Tobias on BBC Radio Guernsey about children carrying mobile phones in classrooms. This followed an interview  in the Daily Telegraph two weeks ago with Matt Hancock MP, Minister of State for Digital and Culture. He gave his views on the use of mobile phones in class by children and what he … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 109 – Mobile Devices in the Classroom →

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Following on from the ongoing  Facebook / Cambridge Analytica scandal, I was invited to be a guest on James Hazell’s show on BBC Radio Suffolk. We talked in depth about how social networks and apps are using our data. Please listen in by clicking the ‘play’ button above. Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, Comment and … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 108 – Why we should care about what our data is used for? →

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This morning I joined Wayne Bavin at BBC Radio Suffolk to both discuss and demonstrate modular coding with the help of the Sphero Mini Robot. It was a great opportunity to show how coding can be fun with the aid of a trio of programmable robots. You can click on the link above to listen … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 107 – Sphero Mini – Educational Robot →

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I chatted to Mark Murphy at BBC Radio Suffolk this morning as part of a discussion about Kitchen Gadgets that have fallen out of use. We have all bought something for the kitchen to help us cook or prepare food and consequently found that although useful, they end up sitting in a cupboard, in a … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 106 – Unused Kitchen Gadgets →

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As I continue to ride the wave of euphoria of completing the 1200 mile east to west  Gadget Road Trip with my lifelong friend Andy. Today I joined BBC Radio Suffolk’s Sarah Lilley on the Sofa in Ipswich and explained how the challenge came about and how it felt to drive 1200 miles in an … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 105 – On the Sofa with Sarah Lilley at BBC Radio Suffolk →

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Following a report by the RAC that vehicle thefts in the United Kingdom have risen by 30% in the last three years, I spoke to Mark Murphy on his BBC Radio Suffolk Breakfast show about how thieves are trying to defeat the security measures that car manufacturers are putting in place. You can listen into … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 104 – Defeating Vehicle Security →

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With the UK launch of the Nokia 3310, I talk to Mark Murphy at BBC Radio Suffolk about the nostalgia behind one of the most popular mobile phones of the last 20 years. The original Nokia 3310 is without doubt an iconic mobile handset and in it’s original form which went on to sell 126,000,000 … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 102 – Nokia 3310 (re)launches in the UK →

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Following my previous post which can be found here, I talked this morning to Mark Murphy on BBC Radio Suffolk about WannaCry and the effect it has had on the NHS, what needs to be done to stop it happening again and what we can do to protect ourselves. To read and in depth article … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 101 – WannaCry – WannaCrypt – Eternal Blue – What Happened and What to Do? →

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This morning I was interviewed by Mark Murphy on BBC Radio Suffolk about what makes me grumpy? At the moment a lot of my time is spent securing websites and investigating hacking attempts, so this felt like a legitimate ‘grump’. If you own a website, don’t assume it’s secure, make sure it’s secure. Listen in … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 99 – Hackers, Spammers and Scammers →

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Once again this week I was delighted to chat to James Hazell. Today we discussed the relaunch of the Nokia 3310, an iconic mobile handset in it’s original form which went on to sell 126,000,000 units. In 2017, HMD the new licence holder of the Nokia phone brand will be launching 4 new phones, three … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 98 – The Return of the Nokia 3310 →

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Fantastic to be back on BBC Radio Suffolk this week, even more special that I was invited to James Hazell’s home for a very special outside broadcast, where we talked about effectively working from home and I got to play Star Trek Pinball!! Thanks to James and Isaac for the invitation, fabulous fun! Listen, Like, … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 97 – Working From Home →

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It was great to be back on BBC Radio Suffolk this morning chatting about technology, today I chatted to James Hazell about ‘Three Useful Apps’ Snapseed – a fantastic little photo editing app that is being used by more than just amateurs as a quick way of fixing photos on the move. Free – (iOS/Android) … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 92 – Three Useful Apps →

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I’m a real fan of tablet computers. I love being able to comfortably read eBooks, magazines and news websites. I love watching streaming movies and catching up on TV either on the move on in the comfort of my home. Make no mistake, modern smartphones are great for most of these things too, but the … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 91 – ASUS ZenPad 3S 10 – A Great Alternative To The Obvious (with Podcast) →

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The human race’s relentless pursuit of technology has now surpassed the scale of the Industrial Revolution of the 19th Century, it has seemingly eclipsed the USA vs Russia arms race of the Cold War era, becoming itself a 21st Century Technology Arms Race, with commercial ideologies hand in hand with the our unquenchable thirst for better, brighter, faster and … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 90 – Samsung Galaxy Note 7 recall part 2 – Can consumers expect Zero Failure in the 21st century technology arms race? →

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Today we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Star Trek which first aired in 1964! Amazingly the series only ran for 3 series before being cancelled NBC. The show was an instant hit with a core group of fans now called ‘Trekkies’ or ‘Trekkers’. Star Trek went on to be shown on repeats or reruns many … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 89 – Star Trek 50th Anniversary – Fantasy Gadgets that are now Reality →

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On Friday, I spoke to Mark Murphy on the Morning Show on BBC Radio Suffolk about the breaking news story concerning the massive data breach at Yahoo, possibly converning over 500,000,000 user accounts and by far the largest leak in history. Listen to the short interview where I explain what I think happened and what … Continue reading Gadget Man – Episode 88 – 500,000,000 Yahoo accounts stolen in Worlds Biggest Hack →

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Grumpy Old Gits came to an end a couple of weeks ago. Here’s the episode from 9th September 2016 with Matt Porter, Neil Bowles and Tim Edwards all kept in order by Mark Matthews!!  

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This week the Gog’s discuss Shared Driveways, England’s Football Kit, Profiteering from Bad Luck, Music on Hold  and many more!! Grumpy Old Git’s it broadcast every Friday between 11am and Midday on Mark Murphy’s Morning Show on BBC Radio Suffolk.

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I was back on air this morning with Mark Murphy and James Hazell to talk about drones and the immense rise in their popularity. With popularity comes a degree of public worry and a much larger degree of press coverage. Should drones be licensed? Should people need to take a proficiency test to use them? … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 87 – Drones. Should they be licensed? →

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This week on ‘Grumps’, Matt, Wayne and James grumble about:- Why aren’t Crematoriums big enough? Why do people have Double Barrel names? Why do people not indicate before turning? Why do all manner of domestic appliances now ‘Beep’ incessantly? Who are ‘They’? What has happened to Chivalry? You can find out what the ‘Gogs’ had … Continue reading Grumpy Old Gits – 15th April 2016 – Crematoriums, Double Barrel Names, Indicators, Beeps, They and Chivalry →

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Self Driving Cars are never far from the news, and last week whilst taking a few days away in sunny West Sussex, I spoke to Mark about what the future holds for Self Driving Cars and Truck Platooning. Tune in to the audio stream to find out what we had to say on the matter, … Continue reading The Gadget Man Episode 87 – Self Driving Cars / Driverless Cars / Autonomous Vehicles →

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This week Matt again joined the Grumpy Old Gits on Mark Murphy’s Morning Show on BBC Radio Suffolk, where together with Ian Healey and James Easter they had a collective grumble about the following:- Banning Contact in School Rugby – James Easter Sunday, no longer the day of rest – Matt Porter Royal Watchers – … Continue reading Grumpy Old Gits – 4th March 2016 – School Rugby – Sunday’s – Royal Watchers – Cold Calling – Air Shows →

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This week Matt was a G.O.G. (Grumpy Old Git) on Mark Murphy’s Morning Show on BBC Radio Suffolk.   The subject matter still had technology subject matter as well as poor sound quality on broadcast TV, the perils of being computer savvy, the date of Easter, do children still go out to play and does riding … Continue reading Grumpy Old Gits – 12 February 2016 →

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I have been driving the latest Tesla Model S P85D over the past few days, specifically to experience software update 7.1 and the improvements to Autopilot functionality.   We discussed the technology behind Tesla Autopilot and also the future of autonomous and driverless cars.   You can listen to a recording of the stream and … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 86 – Tesla Model S P85D – Auto Pilot →

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This week I have been testing a set of FlyONE Dark bluetooth headphones from DEEWEAR. The headphones have an real ergonomic design coupled with extremely high audio quality, they are designed in such as way as you stay fixed in your ear by using built in flaps which fit into your ear and remain there even … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 85 – FlyONE Dark bluetooth headphones from DEEWEAR →

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The price of oil is never far from the news these days, especially as it has a direct effect on the price of petrol, diesel and domestic fuel. There has always been a direct correlation between the price of oil and electric and gas bills and the feeling that we as consumers are somehow trapped … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 84 – Loop – Real-time energy monitoring for your home →

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Finally we make it to Episode 83 with our first proper Gadget Man of 2016. This week I chat to Mark about the Edifier R1800BT Bluetooth enabled Book Shelf Speakers. These are really lovely to listen to and have been either side of my iMac for the past couple of weeks. They even come with … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 83 – Edifier R1800BT – Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers →

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We’re now firmed established in the New Year now and 2016 is looking to be a memorable one for technology. What hasn’t changed however is computer crime. Criminals have now settled in to established methods of computer crime using either hacking or persuasion on the telephone or email. Attached is a recording of a telephone … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 82.5 – Attempted Telephone Extortion by a ‘Help Desk’ →

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Its my last broadcast of the year and I so talk about my top 5 gadgets of the year. Listen to the stream to hear what I thought of the following :- Star Wars Sphero BB8 Motorola Moto 360 Android Wear Smartwatch Soloshot2 Robotic Camera Mount Fujifilm XT-1 Mirrorless Camera Tesla Model S P85D These are … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 82 – Gadget Review of the Year →

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Thanks for visiting The Gadget Man over the last year. I sincerely wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year wherever you are in the world. Stay tuned for next year where I will be testing the Tesla P85D with Autopilot. I’ll also be looking at the amazing Loop Energy Monitoring gadgets and a whole … Continue reading Merry Christmas from the Gadget Man!! →

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When I started out as ‘The Gadget Man’, I always thought that Watches were the obvious gadget, something you would recognise as a gadget, be it Dick Tracy, Star Trek or Thunderbirds. Being able to communicate with your nearest and dearest by talking to your wrist seemed to be the a really futuristic thing to be … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 81 – Huawei Watch →

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In the words of Deep Purple; “The Nights Are Closing In”, and with it the increase of Seasonal Affective Disorder or S.A.D.  which affects around 3-6% of the UK’s population. I’ve been testing a SAD Therapy Lamp from Mini Sun which helps to lessen these symptoms through light therapy. Use of the Therapy Lamp for 60 … Continue reading The Gadgetman Episode 80 – Mini Sun SAD Lamp – plus ‘Ed Sheeran Quits Twitter’ →

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This morning I talk to Mark about the Motorola Moto G (3 gen) handset. At £169 sim free it represents fantastic value for money with excellent build quality and specification. To hear more about the phone, listen in to the audio recorded today on BBC Radio Suffolk. Thanks to Three for the loan of the device, … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 79 – Motorola Moto G (3rd generation) from Three →

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One of my favourite pastimes is photography, although very strictly on an amateur basis. I’ve have been very lucky indeed to have been able to test out a wide range of cameras from Fujifilm this year. For the last few weeks, I’ve been testing the Fujifilm Finepix S9900W Bridge Camera. This is a true bridge … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 78 – Fujifilm Finepix S9900W Bridge Camera →

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If you live in the UK, you will have noticed the sudden change in temperature over the past couple of days, whilst this time a few of weeks ago we were basking in warmer than normal October, are now plunged into the depths of winter.   Recently, I have taken to cycling to work on an … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 77 – Touchability Grip Gloves from touchscreengloves.co.uk →

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This week I talk about a new wave of devices aimed at both Police and private security firms. Body Cams allow for the collection of video evidence which is aimed at reducing the time wasted by conflicting opinions from police and witnesses to crimes. I have been reviewing the Transcend DrivePro Body 10, a really … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 76 – Transcend DrivePro Body 10 Bodycam →

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This week we chatted about the Self balancing two wheeled board’s that are currently very popular. You might know them as Hoverboards, Segways, Balance Boards, Monorovers etc. This is because the device is being manufactured by ‘copycat’ companies in the Far East and is being marketed under a whole host of different names in the UK … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 75 – Self balancing two wheeled board →

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This morning I chat to Rachel about the Fuze, which is “A programmable computer and electronics workstation, the FUZE, with FUZE BASIC, is an ideal platform for learning and teaching computational thinking and computer programming and provides a safe environment to experiment with simple electronics.” It has been really interesting testing the Fuze and I … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 74 – Fuze →

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This morning I chatted to Mark about some Halloween and Christmas costume ideas from Morph Suits. I was sent three different costumes ideas, the first was Cyclops Mask (available here) which aside from being a very well made full head mask, also had the added feature of fully animated eye which is achieved by slotting … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 73 – Halloween Ideas from Digital Dudz at Morph Suits →

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This week the BBC are looking at dating later in life, so this morning I talk to Mark about Internet Dating and how it has evolved over the last 10 – 15 years. We discuss how to keep yourself safe online what you should look out for. We also chatted about the new raft of … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 72 – Internet Dating →

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We’re half way through Cyber Security Month and you can’t open a paper or turn on the TV without hearing about the latest high profile data leak. Security Issues are certainly something that we have covered in the past, so today I was delighted to have the opportunity to interview Danvers Baillieu, Chief Operating Officer of … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 71.5 – The state of Internet security with Danvers Baillieu from Hide My Ass →

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This week I have been able to sample the audio delights of bluetooth streaming with the Edifier MP211 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with NFC. This is a very nice wireless speaker solution for people looking for a mobile solution to playing their music quickly and easily.           Listen in to the stream … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 71 – Edifier MP211 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with NFC + The Rolling Stones →

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This week I chat to Mark about the MiniSun Bluetooth LED Colour Changing Speaker Bulb, a very nice product which would be perfect for upcoming party season. To find out more, listen in to the stream, a full review will be posted in the next few days.           #minisun #speakerbulb #ledbulb

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The gadgets are coming in thick and fast at the moment, but one gadget I was really looking forward to reviewing is none other than the Star Wars BB8 Droid from Sphero, not only was it featured on the show but I also spent some time in the green room demonstrating it to none other … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 69 – Star Wars BB8 Sphero App Enabled Droid, plus we live taste Brew Barrel →

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Home brewing kits have come on leaps and bounds in the last few years and the amazing startup from Germany called ‘Brew Barrel’ have certainly been at the forefront of developments in this area. This morning I chatted to Mark about a Brew Barrel, so listen in to the stream to find out more and … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 68 – Brew Barrel – Home Brewing made easy →

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This morning I talked to Mark Matthews about the Fitbit Charge HR. Fitbit are a well known player in the fitness band marketplace and the continuous heart rate monitoring is a great feature. Listen in the the stream to find out what I think of the Charge HR and keep an eye on the site … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 67 – Fitbit Charge HR →

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This week, I talk to Mark about the Slow Jo 09 24 hour watch. To hear what I had to say, listen to the audio above and read on! I am sometimes asked ‘What is a Gadget’, I guess my definition is an object that improves our way of life. This doesn’t necessarily need to … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 66 – Slow Watch, Life is short, be slow →

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People who know me will know that it isn’t easy to render me speechless, but after trying out my gadget this week, I can honestly say I was! I’m talking about the Transcend WiFi SD Card, a very impressive exercise in both miniaturisation and usefulness. Most of us will be aware of SD Cards, we use … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 65 – Transcend WiFi 32GB SD Card →

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This week those very kind people at Three have again supplied us with a gorgeous LG G4 Smart Phone. The G4’s stand out feature is it’s screen. It improves the QuadHD screen from it’s predecessor, the G3 but brings improvement in colour and brightness. It has a nice loud speaker and the phone controls are on the … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 64 – LG G4 from Three →

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Cameras are one of my favourite areas of technology. It’s marvellous to  be given the opportunity to review the latest and greatest of these devices. Today I chat to Mark about the Fujifilm XQ2, a simple beautiful compact digital camera with a staggering number of high end features. Listen in to the stream and keep … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 63 – Fujifilm XQ2 Compact Camera →

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With the summer suddenly returning last week, it was lovely to have another electric bike to review. I’ve reviewed the Granite Pro from Batribike last year, so it was really exciting to get to check out their newest addition to the ‘stable’ in the shape of the MTB style Storm. Listen in to the stream … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 62 – Batribike Storm Electric Bike →

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Action cams are the big thing at the moment. They offer excellent filming quality but are rugged and waterproof giving opportunities to film in water and rain. The Toshiba Camileo X Sports Camera is no exception, it packed masses of features in a great quality camera but at a much lower price that the competition. … Continue reading The Gadget Man Episode 61 Toshiba Camileo X Sports Camera →

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This week it’s back to smaller gadgets which brings us to Smart Phones. HTC has been a big player of since the birth of the device category years back. HTC are well known for their high quality aluminium designs with bright screens and fast processors. They have also been one of the leaders in innovation … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 60 – HTC One M9 from Three →

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This week we stay with hybrid cars, but this time we look at the Audi A3 etron. First things first, this car looks spectacular! I have never seen such a bright red in my entire life and the big alloy wheels enhance the look even more. It’s certainly a head turner. The A3 etron comes … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 59 – Audi A3 etron sports hybrid →

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This week we move back to hybrid cars with the Volvo V60 D6 Twin Engine Plug in Hybrid vehicle. The D6 is unique as it is a Diesel – Electric Hybrid rather than the standard Petrol Electric that we are used to. This is a very powerful snappy car, at full ‘Power’ mode it is … Continue reading The Gadget man Episode 58 Volvo V60 D6 Twin Engine Plugin Hybrid →

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Great fun was had this week as I was out on about testing one of my favourite forms of transport! Yes, I was testing an super electric bike from those clever people at KTM. I even brought the bike into the studio to show everyone and nearly managed to run over a musician in the … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 57 – KTM eStreet P electric bike →

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This morning I chat to Mark about the EE Power Bar. The Power Bar is a rechargeable battery pack which can supply power to your phone on demand. Like other battery packs, the Power Bar is recharged via USB cable. You can use the included usb cable to charge your phone, or you can plug … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 56 – EE Power Bar →

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This morning, I chatted to Mark about the new breed of cars currently hitting the markplace around the world, namely PHEV’s or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles. I’ve already reviewed the e-Golf a few months ago, however the GTE takes the  electric technology from the e-Golf and combines it with the performance on the Golf GTi. It’s quite … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 55 – Volkswagen Golf GTE – Hot hatch performance with zero emissions →

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This week I talk to Mark about the Aqua-Massage XL-250 Pro, a dry hydro-massage system. The massage is dry because the water used to massage your body from top to bottom is safely sealed away behind a waterproof membrane. This means, that other than removing your shoes, you can stay fully clothed when having your … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 54 – Aquamassage XL-250 Pro from InvigR8 Ipswich →

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This week we talk about the Transcend Storejet 25M3 detachable USB 3.0 hard disk drive. These are ruggedised, which mean that they are a bit more durable than your average portable hard disks and whats more, thet support USB3.0 transfer speeds! The are whisper quiet to use and work very nicely as a backup device … Continue reading The Gadget Man Episode 53 Transcend Storejet 25M3 →

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This week I talk about Google Cardboard and Google I/O Extended from Adastral Park. The event was the brainchild of Mark Thomas at Coderus, they are situated on the Innovation Martlesham also. Google I/O Extended are events which enable people to experience the keynotes of I/O in Silicon Valley in their own countries. BT provided … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 52 – Google Cardboard and Google I/O 2015 →

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This week, we chatted about the Fujifilm X-A2 Mirrorless Compact Camera. This is a camera that is aimed at the mid point of the market, but has the features of the ‘X’ series . We have the camera for a few weeks and will be revisiting it shortly to find out if it lives up to … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 51 – Fujifilm X-A2 Mirrorless Compact Camera →

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This week we chat about MiFi’s or mobile wireless which allow you to connect your laptop and gadgets to a wifi network anywhere where you can get mobile coverage. The Huawei E5756 is perfect for people who commute a great deal or even better for long family journeys as it gives you a wireless network, … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 50 – Huawei E5756 MiFi Hotspot from Three →

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Imagine going from 0-60 in 3.2 seconds, powered by a dual motor 690BHP electric car? Now imagine doing that on one of the wettest days of the month?   Well that’s just what happened on Thursday this week! We were able to spend a very wet hour with the car, but you wouldn’t have noticed. … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 49.5 – Tesla Model S P85D – Test Drive and Interview with Laura Hardy from Tesla →

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This week we talk about the Tesla Powerwall. The powerwall is an electricity storage solution for homes, businesses an more! The Tesla Powerwall is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed to store energy at a residential level for load shifting, backup power and self-consumption of solar power generation. The Powerwall consists of Tesla’s lithium-ion battery pack, liquid … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 49 – Tesla Powerwall →

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This week I talk to Mark about a bunch of amazing products supplied to me my D-Link. Specifically the myhome suite of products. D-Link have taken a very intelligent view of home automation by not only providing a plug that can be controlled via a phone app from anywhere in the world, but also by adding sensible … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 48 -D-Link myhome – Smart Plug, Motion Sensor, Home Monitor and Music Everywhere →

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To celebrate it’s 10 million fans on Facebook, Porsche ran a competition offering the winner a chance in participating in a 1000 km road trip in the 918 Spyder. The car was specially wrapped to allow fans along the way to sign the car During the trip, the 918 Spyder was joined by the Panamera … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 47.5 – Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Hypercar with Gordon Robertson →

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This morning I talked about a very useful dash-cam, namely the Transcend DrivePro 220 in-car camera. The camera boasts an incredible F1.8 low aperture super wide lens with a hefty 16GB memory card on-board. The camera is however much more than simply a way of recording your journey (and any unfortunate events), it also features … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 47 – Transcend DrivePro 220 – In-Car Camera →

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We had a wonderful day at the World Endurance Championship’s 6 Hours of Silverstone last weekend. Not only were we guests of the wonderful people at Porsche Motorsports, we were also able to chat to the Technicians and Drivers and find out more about how the idea of Hybrid power translates to the worlds fastest … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 46 – Porsche 919 LMP with Mark Webber →

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This week we look at the Motorola Moto 360 Smartwatch. With traditional round face and high end looks, this is one of the most appealing smart watches on the market at the present time. Listen to the stream and find out what we thought of it. Stay tuned for a full review of the Moto … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 45 – Motorola Moto 360 Smartwatch with Android Wear →

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This week I talk to Rachel Sloane about the amazing Ollie from Sphero! Ollie is a very clever robot toy, controlled using Bluetooth from a smart phone app. We loved playing with Ollie in the studio, listen in and find out what Matt thought of it.

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I previously reviewed the Sony Smartband and thought it was one of the best wearables of last year.  This week we look at it’s latest iteration which is the Sony Smartband Talk. Yet again, it’s a great product for monitoring activity and more! The ‘more’ being, the lovely e-ink screen and bluetooth headset technology. I … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 43 – Sony Smartband Talk →

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There are two versions of the video, the first was produced by the Kodak software. You will notice the black bar, this displays because this area is not filmed by the camera. (Kodak Rendered Video) (This video was produced by YouTube’s utilty) I was really delighted to  be able to record todays episode of The … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 42 – Kodak PixPro SP360 action camera →

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This week we chat about the Soloshot2. Billed as ‘your robot cameraman’, it takes away the pain of filming your activities. It does this by tracking your movements using a remote wrist strap which is tracked by the main camera mount unit. Below is some footage filmed using the Soloshot 2 a couple of weeks … Continue reading The Gadget Man Episode 41 Soloshot2 – Your Robot Cameraman →

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Today we look at one of the newest of the Android Wear devices to hit the market. We’re looking at the Sony Smartwatch 3. A great device with an amazing Transflective display. If you are looking for an Android compatible smart watch, then the Sony Smartwatch 3 could be for you. Listen to the stream … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 40 – Sony Smartwatch 3 →

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This week we talk about at the Volkswagen e-Golf, a really superb electric vehicle which successfully bridged the gap from traditional petrol or diesel car to fully fledged electric car. This really was a superb vehicle on every level, the handling was just amazing. It was incredibly easy to drive and once I had got the … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 39 – Volkswagen e-Golf Electric Vehicle →

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This week I chat to Mark about the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV an absolutely superb four wheel drive plugin hybrid electric vehicle. I loved driving this vehicle, it was so easy to drive and manoeuvre  and is packed to the brim with it’s own gadgets. Listen to the stream and find out more, a full in depth … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 38 – Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV plus Charge Woes at Waitrose →

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This week, we talk about and demonstrate the Dyson Hot+Cool Air Multiplier. This is Dyson take on the heating and cooling fan. It is bladeless and quite quiet, it’s also great at quickly heating a space. Find out what we thought about it by listening to the stream above. Thanks to Dyson for providing the … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 37 – Dyson Hot + Cool Air Multiplier AM05 →

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A couple of news stories this morning caught the public’s attention. The first related to Samsung TV’s and privacy concerns. The second told the story of a South Korean woman having her hair devoured by a robot vacuum cleaner. I chat to Mark Murphy at BBC Radio Suffolk to find out more. Listen to the … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Are TV’s Listening to our Private Conversations? plus Robot Vacuum Cleaner on the Rampage!!! →

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This week I was delighted to be able to test the Nissan Leaf Tekna. This is a very nice pure electric hatchback and I have really enjoyed driving it. Listen to the stream above and find out what I thought about it, we also talked at length about the practicalities of driving an electric car … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 36 – Nissan Leaf Tekna – Pure Electric Vehicle →

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This week we chat about a tablet with an integrated detachable keyboard. This is the 10.1 inch ASUS Transformer TF103C. Both myself and Mark agreed that tablets are great, but when you need to do some serious typing, keyboards are even better. The Transformer allows the best of both worlds and I really enjoyed using … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 35 – ASUS Transformer TF103C →

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Today we chatted about the Miele Scout RX1 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner. This is the second robotic vacuum we have reviewed for the gadget slot so it was interesting to strike a comparison. Isaac was kind enough to film the RX1 as it scooted around the studio. If you are looking for a robotic vacuum cleaner, … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 34 – Miele Scout RX1 – Robotic Vacuum Cleaner →

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This week, we take a step down from the Tesla Model S from last week and chat about the camera I used to take lots of lovely photos of the car, namely the Fujifilm XT-1 with 56mm F1.2 lens. This is a lovely camera and the photos it captures are simply stunning. A full review … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 33 – Fujifilm XT-1 with 56mm lens →

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This week we chat about the Tesla Model S P85+ electric vehicle. If you haven’t already heard about the Tesla, you should! They are producing amazing electric sports cars with even more amazing range. Tesla were amazingly generous in allowing me to borrow  a top of the range vehicle for 6 days. It’s simply superb in every … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 32 – Tesla Model S P85+ →

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For our first official slot of the year, I talk to Mark about the HTC One Mini 2. Bringing the premium aluminium build quality to a smaller form factor. Listen in to find out more!

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I was delighted to be invited to the BBC Radio Suffolk Studios to provide gadget and technology advice for callers on Rachael Sloane’s show. I answered some very interesting questions about iMessage,  Crochet Hooks with inbuilt lights, which is the best Wordprocessor and lots of other bits by text and email. I also took a … Continue reading The Gadget Man – New Years Day Phone-in →

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It’s been a great year reviewing such a wide range of gadgets from smart watches to high end sports cars. It’s been quite a ride, I’ve really enjoyed the whole experience, so thank you to all involved from BBC Radio Suffolk to the PR agencies and companies that have been so generous allowing me to … Continue reading The Gadget Man – Episode 30 – Gadget Review of the Year 2014 →

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