AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk Sorgatron Media

This week’s episode brought to you by Slice on Broadway, and Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.patreon.com/awesomecastIn this week's episode of Awesomecast, hosts Michael Sorg, John Chichilla, and Katie Dudas dive into the latest tech gadgets, share their favorite awesome things of the week, and discuss recent events in the tech world. From portable tripods and smartphone stabilizers to retro tech revivals and Nintendo's latest announcements, this episode is packed with insights and tips. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just looking for some cool gadget recommendations, this episode has something for everyone.


Portable Tripod:


Katie showcases a new portable tripod that looks like a lightsaber but is compact and versatile.


It's ideal for small interviews and lightweight enough to fit in a backpack.


Features include a 60-inch extension, a rotating top, and a Bluetooth remote.


Smartphone Stabilizer:


Michael introduces the Vivitar Creator Series smartphone stabilizer.


Useful for capturing steady shots, especially during the Formula SAE event.


Demonstrated its effectiveness with iPhone 13 Pro Max for both static and moving shots.


Logitech Keys-to-Go Keyboard:


Chilla discusses the refreshed version of the Logitech Keys-to-Go keyboard.


Features include extreme portability, multiple Bluetooth connections, and long battery life powered by watch batteries.


Retro Tech - Transparent CD Players:


Katie highlights two transparent CD players from Lenco.


One is a portable stereo with FM radio, and the other is a shockproof Discman-like player.


Challenges in purchasing these items from the UK are noted.


Awesome Tip of the Week: Instagram Collaborations:


Katie explains the Instagram feature for inviting collaborators on posts.


Enhances post visibility by appearing on both users' feeds.


Useful for user-generated content and shared projects.


Nintendo Direct Announcements:


Chilla covers the latest Nintendo Direct announcements, including the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection.


Highlights include Turok, Perfect Dark, new Zelda game, and the upcoming Metroid Prime 4.


Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com


Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm


Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!


You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!


Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com


Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!
Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

This week’s episode brought to you by Slice on Broadway, and Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.patreon.com/awesomecast


Join our cohosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar as they delve into the latest tech news and gadgets from the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC). This episode features special guest Chris Maverick from VoxPopCast, who brings his expertise in digital narrative and interactive design to the table. Get ready for an engaging discussion on Apple's latest announcements, AI advancements, and much more!


Episode Highlights:


WWDC 2024 Overview:

Craig Federighi's Stunt Double and Executives Skydiving: An entertaining start to the presentation with Apple executives performing parkour and skydiving.

Home Screen Customization: Users can now leave spaces open on the grid and tint their screens for a personalized look.

Control Center Updates: Multi-page Control Center for enhanced customization.

App Locking Feature: Ability to lock specific apps using Face ID, Touch ID, or a password for added security.

Trail Mapping in Maps: Offline trail maps for national parks and custom trail creation for hikers.

Advanced Photo Features: AI-powered photo filters, grouping, and collections, along with the ability to remove unwanted objects from images.

AirPods Pro Head Gestures: Answer calls by nodding or shaking your head.

Apple TV+ Updates:

Amazon X-Ray-like Feature: View actor information and connected content during playback.

Apple Watch Enhancements:

Training Load: New metrics for heart rate, elevation, and exertion tracking.

Pause Exercise Rings: Pause your exercise rings for travel or rest days.

Vitals App and Translate App: Consolidated vitals tracking and on-watch translation.

iPadOS Updates:

Calculator App and Math Notes: Solve handwritten equations using the Apple Pencil.

Smart Script: AI-powered handwriting improvement and seamless text formatting.

Apple Intelligence (AI):

On-device AI Processing: Advanced on-device AI for file searches and personalized responses without cloud dependency.

Image Creator: Generate images based on text descriptions directly in apps like Notes and Keynote.

Integration with ChatGPT: Option to use ChatGPT for advanced queries while maintaining privacy and security.

Guest Segment: Chris Maverick on AI Art:

AI Art Experiment: Chris shares his experience creating AI-generated art, discussing the process and challenges.

AI in Education: Insights into how AI is being integrated into educational curriculums for digital narrative and interactive design.

Future of AI in Creative Fields: A discussion on the implications of AI in the arts, from wedding photography to comic book illustrations.





Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!
Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

This week’s episode brought to you by Slice on Broadway, and Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.patreon.com/awesomecast


n this episode of "Awesome Cast," Mike Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar discuss various tech news, gadgets, and personal experiences. They also highlight their awesome things of the week and updates from recent tech developments.


Bulleted Summaries


News Stories:


YouTube Mini Games:


YouTube has rolled out mini-games available to all users, not just premium subscribers.


Features casual games such as Stack Bounce, Draw Climber, and Mob Control.


Intended for light entertainment and quick play sessions.https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/28/24166363/youtube-games-playables-youtube-premium


Canva Updates:


Canva introduces several new features aimed at team collaboration and AI-driven design.


Enhanced AI capabilities for creating graphics, presentations, and ads for Google, Meta, and Amazon.


Integration with Salesforce for automatic data updates in designs.


New photo editing tools including a "magic grab" feature that allows easy manipulation of images.https://www.canva.com/newsroom/news/canva-for-work/


ICQ Shutdown:


ICQ, the once-popular instant messaging platform, is set to shut down on June 26.


Users are encouraged to download any old messages they wish to keep.https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/25/24164579/icq-shut-down-june


Gadgets and Tech:


Walkie Talkie Feature on Apple Watches:


Discussed the convenience of using the walkie-talkie feature for communication over long distances.


Mentioned practical uses in theme parks and family gatherings for easy coordination.


Mental Health App – "Schmoody":


A fun mental health app discovered via TikTok.


Features checklists and tasks for improving daily routines and mental health.


Includes options for meditation, breathing exercises, and community support.https://www.shmoody.com/


AirPods Alternative – Cool Buds:


Reviewed Cocoa Buds, an affordable alternative to Apple AirPods with a unique feature of doubling as a power bank.


Available for around $15, providing a budget-friendly option with decent quality.https://amzn.to/3V31dIk


Wireless Video Transmitter – Hollyland Pyro H:


New wireless video transmitter for under $500, ideal for mobile video production.


Features HDMI version, rechargeable batteries, and the ability to connect multiple receivers for monitoring.


Designed for use in dynamic environments like sports and events, though not as reliable for high-movement scenarios like wrestling.https://amzn.to/4bCv7KL


Photography with Vintage Tech:


Katie Dudas experimented with a Nikon Coolpix camera for a retro photography project.


Discussed the quirky results and the charm of using old tech for modern photography.


Fitness and Wellness Apps:


Mike Sorg explored the Noom app, which focuses on mindfulness and psychological aspects of dieting.


Compared it to other health and wellness apps, discussing the benefits and cost-effectiveness.


Additional Updates:


Poetry Camera:


New updates to the Poetry Camera, a unique device that generates poems based on photos.


Improved Wi-Fi connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and better thermal printing.


https://poetrycamera.substack.com/p/version-40-is-born-drop-coming-soon


Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com


Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm


Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!


You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!


Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com


Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!
Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

This week’s episode brought to you by Slice on Broadway, and Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.patreon.com/awesomecast


Sorg, Chilla and Dave Podnar are here and some of them have sore legs…


Formula SAE International Combustion (IC) Event:


Coverage of the internal combustion event, with plans for a future exclusive electric vehicle (EV) event.


Mention of the involvement of students and volunteers in designing, building, and raising funds for their vehicles.


Highlights of the endurance race and the high participation rate compared to previous years.


Notable performance by the Brazilian team, securing first place in design and a top-five overall finish.


Google I/O Highlights:


Discussion on Project Astra, an early version of Google’s universal assistant powered by DeepMind AI.


Demonstration of the assistant’s ability to recognize and interact with objects in real-time using a smartphone camera.


AI advancements in identifying objects and providing contextual information.


Concerns about AI integration in search results and its impact on web traffic and information accuracy.


OpenAI GPT-4.0 Update:


Introduction of GPT-4.0 (omni), capable of handling text, audio, and image inputs and outputs.


Practical applications and improvements in AI interactions.


Potential collaboration between OpenAI and Apple for integrating AI functionalities into iOS.


Google Glass and Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses:


Comparison of Google’s updated glasses with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses.


Features include built-in cameras and voice assistants.


Emphasis on the seamless integration of AI and smart glasses for enhanced user experiences.


Microsoft Co-Pilot:


Explanation of Microsoft’s Co-Pilot, integrating AI into enterprise solutions.


Benefits of having AI manage and process data locally on devices.


Importance of maintaining data privacy and security in enterprise environments.


Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com


Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm


Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!


You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!


Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com


Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!
Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

This week’s episode brought to you by Slice on Broadway, and Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.patreon.com/awesomecast


Sorg, Chilla and Dave Podnar are here and some of them have sore legs…


Apple iPad Announcements:


New iPad Models: Released iPad Air and Pro models featuring the new M4 chip, enhancing performance and integrating AI features.


Accessories Compatibility Issues: Some old accessories don't work with new iPads due to redesigns, particularly magnetic alignment issues.


New Keyboard: Lighter with better floating functionality but incompatible with prior iPads due to magnetic differences.


Apple Pencil: The new Pencil supports innovative hover and squeeze features, allowing users to paint or select without touching the screen.


Final Cut Pro 2 & Logic: New versions designed with improved AI and Pro features, including advanced video editing and audio separation.


Camera Apps:


Final Cut Camera App: Enables live multicam switching with four iPhones, making it ideal for live production with control over zoom, ISO, and focus.


Blackmagic Camera App: Expanding to Android, allowing better video recording on a range of devices.


Pittsburgh Marathon:


Relay Team Participation:


The hosts shared personal experiences of joining the Pittsburgh Marathon via a relay team. The various segments included scenic routes, bridges, and iconic city landmarks.


Despite limited training, the camaraderie and supportive environment made it a memorable event.


Tech Integration:


Tracking apps helped monitor team progress, paces, and location of participants.


Additional Tidbits:


The podcast hosts discussed the importance of exercise for space missions, particularly on the moon, where innovative running solutions are needed to compensate for low gravity.


The team hinted at potential tech-related challenges for future moon exercises.


Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com


Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm


Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!


You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!


Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com


Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!
Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk