Mac Geek Gab — Your Questions Answered, Tips Shared, Troubleshooting Assistance

Dave Hamilton, Pilot Pete & Adam Christianson
  • 4.8 (821)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Mac Geek Gab — Your Questions Answered, Tips Shared, Troubleshooting Assistance
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Answers to your tech questions for your Apple devices and beyond. Dave Hamilton, Adam Christianson, and Pilot Pete come together weekly to answer your questions and discuss things of interest to Apple and Mac geeks, presenting them in ways that are both entertaining and informative for the average listener.

  1. From Power Failures to Plex: Tech Tips Galore

    1 DAY AGO

    From Power Failures to Plex: Tech Tips Galore

    This week’s Mac Geek Gab is packed with smart strategies to optimize your Apple gear and tech setup. Want to control which iPhone Pro lenses your camera uses? Dive into Fusion Camera settings. Keep your network alive longer by putting your router on a dedicated UPS. Apple Silicon’s insane battery life keeps you going, while a quick double-tap in Apple Mail lets you switch views like a pro. Got a travel routine? Packing a universal remote and an Apple TV can make your trips way smoother. Plus, Apple finally lets you migrate purchases to a new Apple ID—because it’s about time. Security and efficiency take center stage as Dave, Pete, and Adam explore Apple’s Activation Lock Request site, a free alternative to Keyboard Maestro, and a clever fix to stop your sister’s email from vanishing into the void. Find out why AA AirTag cases might not be the battery solution you’re looking for, and don’t get caught without AppleCare—check all your covered devices in one place. Whether it’s SharePlay, Plex Pass discounts, or leveling up your keyboard shortcuts, this episode is packed with smart, surprising, and satisfying solutions. 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1077 for Monday, February 17th, 2025 February 17th: Analog to Digital TV Day Police Code 10-77 – Estimated Time of Arrival, Directing Traffic at a Fire MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win a copy of CCC Backup from Bombich Software! Quick Tips 00:00:01 RandyWalker-Go into Settings > Camera > Fusion Camera to control which lenses your iPhone Pro uses 00:03:09 Keeping your router and network gear on a separate UPS to keep them running longer 00:05:27 Doctor Lee-Use Accessibility to Trigger iPad Shortcuts with Keyboard 00:08:36 The benefits of Apple Silicon battery life 00:12:53 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Sign up at Coda.io/mgg for FREE. MOAR Quick Tips 00:14:09 Darrin-QT-Double Tap Apple Mail Categories QUICKLY solves Category -v- List View! 00:16:56 Bob-QT-1074-Put Feet on your Dock to keep it cool 00:18:11 Steve-Apple now allows purchases to be migrated to a new Apple ID About migrating Apple Account purchases between accounts 00:29:54 PorthosJon-QT-Apple’s Activation Lock Request web site 00:32:26 DJ MAC-QT-Bring an Apple TV with you when you travel Beryl AX SoundSource Don’t Get Caught 00:39:30 Andy-DGC-CSF-Elevation Labs AirTag Cases with AA Batts – Alkaline -v- Lithium 00:42:44 SPONSOR: Indochino. For all your 2025 plans, look your best in INDOCHINO. Visit Indochino.com and use code MGG to get 20% off any purchase of $499 or more. Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:44:07 MACE-Why is all my sister’s mail being deleted? 00:49:05 Rob-How to see all your Apple Care device coverage Account.Apple.

    1h 22m
  2. From Garage Lights to Geeky Delights

    FEB 10

    From Garage Lights to Geeky Delights

    Are you tired of fumbling with your iPhone to undo actions? Discover a game-changing Quick Tip that will revolutionize your mobile experience! This episode of Mac Geek Gab is packed with time-saving hacks and tech insights. Learn how to undo on your iPhone without shaking, customize your Finder tabs, and supercharge your Apple Notes with ProNotes. The hosts dive into the world of AI-generated music and explore the potential of ChatGPT’s Canvas feature for collaborative work. Don’t get caught off guard by scam texts or emails! Dave, Adam, and Pete share valuable advice on staying safe online and discusses the latest developments in social media apps. Plus, get the scoop on innovative gadgets like motion-sensing garage lights and puzzle games that will challenge your problem-solving skills. Ready to elevate your tech game and stay ahead of the curve? Don’t get caught missing out on these essential tips and tricks. Click to listen now and join the Mac Geek Gab community! 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1076 for Monday, February 10th, 2025 February 10th: National Clean Out Your Computer Day Police Code 10-76 – En route to location MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win a copy of CCC Backup from Bombich Software! Quick Tips 00:00:01 Ventmore-QT-Use three-finger swipe (or tap) to undo on iPhone (and iPad) 00:02:17 Steve-QT-Say “Cancel” to shut Siri up! 00:04:37 Steve Hammond-QT-Use Option to set default app to open a file 00:06:12 Rod L-QT-Tailscale says to install the standalone version on macOS 00:08:50 PorthosJon-QT-Use pbcopy to send stuff directly from Terminal to Clipboard cat /etc/hosts | pbcopy 00:10:44 Alex-QT-Deselect Category view in iOS Mail 00:15:13 Ed-QT-1075-Select the tab with the same Shift+Command+\ again! 00:16:19 Porthos Jon-QT-1075-More Finder Window Management Tips Don’t Get Caught 00:20:41 Niceville Steve-DGC-Beware Texts that appear to be Apple wanting to change your password 00:25:09 Lucas-DGC-Don’t Accidentally Invite People to an Event! Show Business 00:26:35 MGG Premium Listener Contribution Appreciation Moment 00:29:58 MGG Reviews 1/22/2025 00:30:32 MGG Reviews 12/20/24 00:30:59 MGG Reviews 12/25/2024 00:32:15 MGG Reviews 2025-01-02 Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:33:43 Uncle Jamie-Which 2.5Gb Switches should I get? UniFi Flex Mini 2.5G GoodTop 16-port Web Managed 2.5G Switch XikeStor 8-Port 2.5G Switch 00:39:30 TP-Link’s China Connection 00:43:10 Larry-How do I control what audio plays when my phone connects to my car...

    1h 20m
  3. Time To Get Past 300 Baud – Mac Geek Gab 1075

    FEB 4

    Time To Get Past 300 Baud – Mac Geek Gab 1075

    Are you tired of your smart home devices failing when your internet goes down? Don’t get caught unprepared! In this episode of Mac Geek Gab, Pete, Adam, and Dave dive into the world of home automation and network stability. They discuss strategies for keeping your smart home running smoothly, even when your internet connection fails. From setting up local control with Home Assistant to configuring DNS settings, you’ll learn valuable tips to maintain your smart home’s functionality. The episode also covers a range of other tech topics. Learn about updating AirPods firmware, managing battery life on MacBooks, and the ins and outs of AirTags. Plus, discover a Cool Stuff Found with the Remote app for controlling your Mac from your iPhone, and get a Quick Tip on using keyboard shortcuts in Finder tabs. Don’t Get Caught without these essential tech insights and more. Tune in to Mac Geek Gab episode 1075 and arm yourself with the knowledge to keep your smart home running smoothly, no matter what challenges arise. 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1075 for Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 February 4th: National Stuffed Mushroom Day (also Facebook’s Birthday and National Hemp Day… coincidence? You decide!) Police Code 10-75 – Severe weather statement MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win a copy of CCC Backup! Quick Tips 00:00:01 Bern-QT-Save Micro-Seconds on your iOS LogIn 00:03:01 Brian-QT-Display Finder Tabs with SHIFT + ⌘ + \  then type a letter for a bonus tip! 00:06:45 Craig-QT-Apple’s Official Instructions to Update AirPods Firmware 00:09:00 Bern-QT-Conversation Awareness Airpods Pro – Cool Use Case! 00:15:00 Alex-QT-Export Notes to RTFd by dragging in the exactly right way 00:18:00 Allison-1074-M3 MacBook Pro’s always-plugged-in battery ranges between 80%-76% Sponsors and Podcasts 00:19:22 SPONSOR: Factor. Save time with Factor’s fresh, never-frozen meals, ready to heat and eat in just 2 minutes! Head to FactorMeals.com/MGG50OFF with code MGG50OFF to get 50% off your first box. 00:20:55 PODCAST: Unmute Presents connects blind and sight-impaired individuals through engaging podcasts and live discussions. Together, they share knowledge, answer questions, and build a stronger community. Don’t Get Caught 00:22:05 Muneesh-DGC-AirPods Pro in the Shower – NOT recommended! Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:28:27 Joe-Q-independent Cellular Watch Plans Available? US-Mobile Standalone Plan for Apple Watch 00:31:15 Using Parental Controls on your Child’s iPhone 00:38:28 David-Car issues with AirTag followers and wireless CarPlay CarLinKit 5.0 Adapter 00:43:32 Mace-Q-Need to Reset an Airtag With a Dead Battery? Replacement AirTAG CR2032 Batteries a href="https://luggageworks.

    1h 22m
  4. Battery Battles, Font Fun, and Ad Blockers...Oh My!

    JAN 27

    Battery Battles, Font Fun, and Ad Blockers...Oh My!

    Are you tired of struggling with password management and battery life on your Mac? This week’s Mac Geek Gab has you covered! Discover how to streamline your password management experience by using the escape key to dismiss Apple’s autofill dialog and access your preferred password manager. Learn about the debate between Apple’s built-in password management and third-party options like 1Password. The hosts also dive into battery management techniques, discussing the pros and cons of apps like Al Dente versus Apple’s native battery health features. But that’s not all! Get Quick Tips on using the terminal command “last reboot” to view your Mac’s shutdown history, and learn how to remove unwanted fonts using Font Book. In Cool Stuff Found, explore new AirTag accessories for pet tracking and check out the Insta360 Link webcam for improved video quality. Don’t get caught without these valuable insights – tune in to Mac Geek Gab for all this and more! Ready to supercharge your Mac knowledge? Listen now and discover at least five new things in this episode of Mac Geek Gab! 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1074 for Monday, January 27th, 2025 January 27th: Bubblewrap Appreciation Day Police Code 10-74 – How do you copy / Smoke report / “Mental Person” You Decide! NF-Listener MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win an MGG Hat from our new merch store! Quick Tips 00:00:01 JMM-QT-Long Press Files App Icon to Pull Up Scan Menu Option 00:04:14 Kirschen-QT-Type `last reboot` and it’ll show you all recent shutdowns and reboots 00:05:40 Adam-QT-If you’re using Apple Passwords and 1Password, ‘escape’ is your friend 00:10:02 Keep a photo of your license and passport on your phone 00:12:43 StephenA-QT-Fool Websites that ‘block’ Pasting data such as Passwords 00:16:36 Gary-QT-Wow Apple Watch Camera App 00:18:55 JEhndal-QT-Use a cable for software updates on iOS/iPadOS devices if space is a problem Use encrypted backups to backup your iPhone’s health data 00:22:11 Scott-QT-Create a Silence Unknown Callers shortcut 00:23:27 Ferrers (and everyone in the chat)-QT-Shift-and-scroll to change your mouse to sideways 00:26:30 Mental Triggers for The Virtual Rolodex Sponsor 00:31:48 SPONSOR: OWC’s new Thunderbolt 5 hub is available and is compatible with Macs, PCs, and iPads Pro. Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:33:17 Andrew-What’s the best way to manage my MacBook’s battery? AlDente for Mac 00:44:21 Valentine-Best Thunderbolt Dock Rec? OWC ClingOn USB-C Securing Device 00:52:49 Phil-Which Ad Blocker to replace Vinegar? uBlock Origin 1Blocker Ghostery 01:01:23 David-How do I remove fonts from my Mac? 01:06:37 Font Tips: Use the My Fonts tab to see which ones you installed, and create your own Font Collections Cool Stuff Found 01:08:40 CSF-Sonos now supports Lossless Apple Music Quality 01:11:54 MySpoonIsTooBig-CSF Elevation La...

    1h 19m
  5. Keyboard Kung Fu & Wi-Fi Wonders

    JAN 20

    Keyboard Kung Fu & Wi-Fi Wonders

    Are you struggling to manage your digital photo collection? Don’t get caught with disorganized memories! In this episode of Mac Geek Gab, Adam, Pete, and Dave dive into the world of photo organization and archiving. They discuss strategies for managing large photo libraries, including creating separate libraries for different life stages and using external storage solutions. You’ll learn about the pros and cons of various backup methods and how to balance cloud storage with local options. The episode also covers a range of Quick Tips, including adjusting screen brightness in smaller increments and scanning text directly into Apple Notes. Plus, discover Cool Stuff Found like the INET network scanner for identifying devices on your home network. The geeks share their experiences with hotel Wi-Fi woes and offer advice on troubleshooting connectivity issues while traveling. Ready to take control of your digital memories and boost your tech savvy? Listen to this episode of Mac Geek Gab for expert insights and practical tips to enhance your Mac experience. 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1073 for Monday, January 20th, 2025 January 20th: National Camcorder Day Police Code 10-73 – How do you copy / Smoke report / “Mental Person” You Decide! NF-Listener MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win an MGG Hat from our new merch store! Quick Tips 00:00:01 Chris-QT-Shift+Option allows for granular brightness and volume adjustments Shift+Volume silences the tick sounds Option+Volume (or Brightness) launches the Settings pane for that 00:05:26 Tony-QT-Delete and ReImport Keyboard Shortcuts by making local pList file. 00:07:14 Alex-QT-Scan Text into Notes Directly! Compressification of the workflow 00:09:36 Searching in Photos will find based upon text in photos 00:10:01 QT-Swipe left towards center of Dynamic Island on iPhone to get the original menu bar back BitterPillBand.com 00:13:31 John-QT-Silence Unknown Callers is a setting 00:14:31 Gary-QT-Scroll down then swipe up iPadOS Screenshot Don’t Get Caught 00:19:45 Harvey-DGC-Apps hidden with FaceID don’t work in CarPlay Sponsors 00:24:33 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Sign up at Coda.io/mgg for FREE. 00:25:49 SPONSOR: Indochino. For all your 2025 plans, look your best in INDOCHINO. Visit Indochino.com and use code MGG to get 20% off any purchase of $499 or more. 00:27:12 SPONSOR: BBEdit, the power tool for text from Bare Bones Software; now with integrated Notebooks and extended language support. Show Business 00:28:46 MGG Premium Listener Contribution Appreciation Moment Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:31:15 Allison-Why do some Mail messages on my iPhone swipe right to delete, others archive? 00:35:38 How do you archive your email each year? MailSteward Spark Mail on iPhone Stream Deck for managing email shortcuts

    1h 19m
  6. Circling the Wi-Fi Drain at CES 2025

    JAN 13

    Circling the Wi-Fi Drain at CES 2025

    Don’t get caught wasting hours on lackluster tech! In this episode of Mac Geek Gab, Dave and Pete bring you the cream of the crop from CES 2025. They dive into the most exciting and innovative products they’ve discovered, saving you the hassle of navigating the overwhelming show floor. From a game-changing 5K Thunderbolt display at an unbeatable price to smart swim goggles with heads-up displays, they’ve got you covered. But that’s not all! The hosts also explore cutting-edge AR glasses, Wi-Fi 7 travel routers, and a robot vacuum that can pick up and sort your clutter. They even discuss some impressive audio gear, including open-ear headphones with active noise canceling and compact speakers that pack a surprising punch. Ready to discover the coolest tech of 2025? Don’t get caught out of the loop – tune in to this episode of Mac Geek Gab for all the details and insider insights from CES! 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1072 for Monday, January 13th, 2025 January 13th: National Sticker Day Police Code 10-72 – Report progress of fire / Gun involved / D.O.A. MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win an MGG T-Shirt from our new merch store! MGG CES 2025 Sponsors CCC Backup from Bombich The Omni Group Private Internet Access Roborock eero Cool Stuff Found from CES 00:02:03 Viewsonic 27” 5K Thunderbolt Display $799 00:04:43 Form 2 Swim Goggles $279 00:07:07 Even Realities G1 Smart Glasses $549 00:10:12 TP-Link’s WiFi worked TP-Link BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Travel Router (TL-WR3602BE) 00:14:59 Captify.Glass – Eyeglasses that transcribe in real time – March 2025 00:17:32 CES Coverage Sponsor: Roborock Saros Z70 with the retractable arm 00:21:12 Nova AI Companion 00:25:41 CES Coverage Sponsor: The Omni Group 00:27:11 Brisk It Zelos-450 Smart Smoker Grill 00:30:46 Intake Breathing Strips 00:33:50 For Me Buds 00:37:36 CES Coverage Sponsor: CCC Backup from Bombich 00:39:09 Komutr Headphones – ANC – MagSafe – ½” 00:40:54 Lytmi Cozyfit 2 Pro ANC Open Ear Headphones 00:44:28 SoundCore AeroFit 2 over-ear  B/T Earbuds – nice sound.

    1h 4m
  7. They Dissolve Like You’re Thanos

    JAN 6

    They Dissolve Like You’re Thanos

    Dive into the latest Mac Geek Gab where Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton kick off 2025 with a bang. From pre-CES discoveries like the 1MORE S70 Open-Ear Wireless Earbuds to clever Quick Tips, you’ll find tools to supercharge your Apple experience. Learn how to search sites with a quick JavaScript snippet, move your Photos library to an external drive, and add Apple items like weather to your menu bar. Whether it’s taming Safari’s new “Hide Distracting Items” feature or syncing iCloud Photos in iOS 18, the crew has you covered with answers to your pressing tech questions. Don’t get caught unprepared for the unexpected! Struggling with Wi-Fi interference, managing multiple Apple Homes, or dimming Safari’s display? They tackle it all, even diving into quirky fixes like disabling external monitor signals with BetterDisplay Pro. Plus, Cool Stuff Found features gems like Obsidian for Markdown and Elevation Lab’s 10-Year AirTag Battery Case. Packed with wisdom, laughs, and actionable tips, this episode is your ticket to staying geeky and in control. 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1071 for Monday, January 6th, 2025 January 6th: National Take a Poet to Lunch Day Police Code 10-71 – Advise nature of fire / Shooting MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win an MGG T-Shirt from our new merch store! MGG CES 2025 Sponsors CCC Backup from Bombich The Omni Group Private Internet Access Roborock eero Pre-CES Audio-related Cool Stuff Found 00:05:08 Barry-CSF-Three Shower Speakers: Infinity X1, Shower Power Pro, and JBL Clip 00:8:03 CSF-1MORE S70 Open Ear Wireless Earbuds 00:10:59 CSF-Soundcore Sleep A10 Sleep Earbuds Quick Tips 00:00:01 David-QT-iOS 18.3 adds control for iCloud mail rules 00:13:16 Alex-QT-iOS 18 returns Volume Bar to Lock Screen playback widget 00:15:51 Phil-QT-Site Search JavaScript javascript:Qr=prompt(‘Search%20Site%20for’,”);if(Qr)location.href=’https://www.google.com/search?&q=site:’+encodeURIComponent(window.location.hostname)+’+’+escape(Qr) 00:18:55 Andrew-QT-Add Apple items, like weather, to your menu bar. 00:20:21 James-QT-1068-Remember you CAN move your Photos library to an external drive Sponsors 00:24:37 CES 2025 COVERAGE SPONSOR: Private Internet Access VPN – Save 82% off your VPN service PLUS four free months with a two-year plan at PIAVPN.com/mgg. Don’t Get Caught 00:26:44 David-DGC-Mail stored On My iPhone disappeared! Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:30:00 Emily-how do I see if my photos are all synced to iCloud in iOS 18? 00:36:21 Chris-iMac M1 with wifi issues

    1h 23m
  8. Resolve to Trim Your Fat (Binaries)

    12/30/2024

    Resolve to Trim Your Fat (Binaries)

    Are you tired of fumbling with your Mac’s settings every time you need to move it? Discover how to keep your device powered on while relocating it in this episode of Mac Geek Gab! Dave, Adam, and Pete dive into the world of portable power solutions for Mac desktops. From battery packs to inverters, they explore various options to keep your iMac or Mac mini running during short moves. The hosts also share their experiences with different setups, including daisy-chaining batteries for extended power backup. But that’s not all! This episode is packed with Quick Tips, including using ChatGPT with screenshots, rotating images in Preview, and discovering hidden features in the iPhone’s Calculator app. The team also discusses AirPods Pro as concert earplugs and troubleshoots trackpad issues. Don’t miss the hosts’ insights on Wi-Fi network naming conventions. Ready to become a Mac power user and never get caught off guard? Tune in to this episode of Mac Geek Gab for all these tips and more! 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1070 for Monday, December 30th, 2024 December 30th: National Bacon Day Police Code 10-70 – Improperly Parked Vehicle MGG Monthly Giveaway – Marked 2 for December, 2024 MGG CES 2025 Sponsors CCC Backup from Bombich The Omni Group Private Internet Access Roborock eero Quick Tips 00:00:01 ChatGPT accepts (and successfully-parses) screenshots, you know. 00:03:54 Hold Option Key to Reverse Photo Rotation Direction 00:05:50 Shortcut to re-open recently closed tabs 00:07:42 Jeff-QT-Put the Calculator into Conversion Mode with one quick tap 00:13:18 What’s Your WiFi network named…and why? 00:16:47 QT Keyboard -v- Mouse Click to Undo Spelling Auto-Correct MacOS 00:20:56 Andy-QT-Sometimes powering off isn’t powering off and you need to create a resistance issue 00:23:46 Andrew-QT2fer-Getting Apple Podcasts App NOT to crash. Managing System Integrity Protection 00:36:36 Bob-QT-1068-Thinning out fat binaries with CleanMyMac They’re still fat binaries to me 00:39:46 Using Active earplugs in AirPods Pro 2 Catalyst AirPods Case Sponsors 00:53:47 CES 2025 COVERAGE SPONSOR: Private Internet Access VPN – Save 82% off your VPN service PLUS four free months with a two-year plan at PIAVPN.com/mgg. Show Business 00:55:52 MGG Premium Listener Contribution Appreciation Moment Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! 00:57:13 derjazzmeister-Password Syncing Across OS’s (missing?) 01:01:02 Avraham-Battery Option for a Mini / iMac? CyberPower 450VA Battery UPS a href="https://www.amazon.

    1h 19m
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Answers to your tech questions for your Apple devices and beyond. Dave Hamilton, Adam Christianson, and Pilot Pete come together weekly to answer your questions and discuss things of interest to Apple and Mac geeks, presenting them in ways that are both entertaining and informative for the average listener.

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