Mac Geek Gab — Your Questions Answered, Tips Shared, Troubleshooting Assistance Mac Geek Gab
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- Technology
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Answers to your tech questions for your Apple devices and beyond. Dave Hamilton and friends 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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MOAR POWER...To Travel?
This week’s Mac Geek Gab episode, featuring Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton, is jam-packed with actionable advice for all things Mac. Kick off with a life-hack: always snap a photo of your airport parking spot to find it easily upon return. Discover the convenience of QuickLook by simply holding the Space Bar, and dive into customizing your Mac experience with tools like Karabiner-Elements and Keyboard Maestro for remapping keys and automating tasks. The episode doesn’t stop there; it dives deep into optimizing your home network with mesh systems and the latest in Wi-Fi technology, comparing Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and the futuristic Wi-Fi 7, ensuring your setup doesn’t get left in the digital dust.
When it comes to safeguarding your digital life, “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared. The team covers the importance of using your mic’s mute feature wisely, backs up data with Carbon Copy Cloner, and secures your network with the latest and greatest tools. Tips on preventing iCloud sync mishaps with the .nosync option, and a discussion on whether antivirus software is a necessity for Mac users, provide you with the knowledge to protect your devices and personal information. Every minute is filled with insights and tips designed to empower you to get the most out of your Mac and network setup, without getting caught by common pitfalls.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1030 for Monday, March 25th, 2024
March 25: Tolkien Reading Day
The MGG Discord Server is Live!
The MGG Merch Store is Live!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 QT-When parking at the airport, take a pic of your parking location and immediately Favorite it.
00:06:29 Simon-QT-A QuickLook QuickTip by holding the Space Bar
00:08:52 Doug-1028-Remapping Command Key and Automating Zoom Calls
Karabiner-Elements
FileMaker
Better Touch Tool
Keyboard Maestro
Display Menu
Conference Call in Real Life
00:15:09 Using your microphone’s mute switch versus Zoom’s mute switch…the pros and cons.
00:19:00 Bob-QT-MGG 1026 – Backing up family laptops
Carbon Copy Cloner
Tailscale
00:21:42 Martin-QT-1029-Use .nosync to keep folders from syncing to iCloud
Sponsors
00:27:53 SPONSOR: Backblaze. Get a fully-featured no risk free trial at Backblaze.com/mgg. Go there, play with it, and start protecting yourself from potential bad times. Start Today!
00:29:46 SPONSOR: Manscaped. Nothing like a little spring cleaning in your pants. Get 20% off and Free Shipping with code MGG at Manscaped.com
00:31:28 SPONSOR: Zocdoc, the easiest way to find a great doctor and instantly book an appointment. Sign up for FREE at Zocdoc.com/MGG and download the app today.
Networking Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:33:16 Kalle-How best to upgrade my network to mesh and add Ethernet? -
Everything Was a Sock Account
Tackle syncing issues on iPhone’s Photos app and introduce a life-changing Conference Focus mode to streamline your digital life as Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton kick off this week’s Mac Geek Gab. They don’t stop there; they reveal how to free up disk space by removing specific log files, simplify photo attachments on Mac, and navigate Terminal’s Help menu like a pro with tools like tldr-pages and the Dash app. Remember, “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared in your digital life.
When it comes to addressing listener questions, your three favorite geeks don’t hold back. They delve into the nuances of Desktop & Documents syncing with iCloud, the necessity of iPhone backups, and even brainstorm a DIY proximity sensor for hotel rooms using Raspberry Pi for that extra peace of mind.
Video sharing solutions for private family moments get a spotlight, recommending platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Rumble. For the audiophiles, the discussion shifts to choosing the right external speakers for Macs, with nods to AudioEngine A2+ and HomePod Mini. Plus, they share cool finds like the Brane X smart speaker from SXSW and innovative tech for local network browsing and sound mixing, proving that when it comes to tech, staying curious and informed is key.
Press play and enjoy!
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1029 for Monday, March 18th, 2024
March 18: National Sloppy Joe Day (also Awkward Moments Day)
Quick Tips
00:00:01 PorthosJon-QT-Manually resume Photos Syncing on your iPhone
00:04:39 Create yourself a Conference Focus mode
00:13:25 rnDoug-QT-Remove specific /var/log files to free up disk space
00:15:56 Ben & PorthosJon-QT-Attach Photos the Easier Way(s) on Your Mac
00:17:34 MyFaceIsTooBig-QT-Use the Terminal’s Help menu to see (some) well-formatted man pages
brew install tldr
tldr-pages (for iPad and Mx Macs)
Dash app (in Setapp)
Sponsors
00:21:30 SPONSOR: Factor. Save time with Factor’s fresh, never-frozen meals, ready to heat and eat in just 2 minutes! Head to FactorMeals.com/MGG50 with code MGG50 to get 50% off your first box.
00:23:10 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs. Go to LinkedIn.com/MGG and post your first job for free!
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:24:39 Michael-Do you use Desktop & Documents Syncing with iCloud?
Hazel from Noodlesoft
00:30:50 Andrew-Do I really need to backup my iPhone, though?
iMazing
00:40:03 GC-Proximity sensor for hotel room so you know when housekeeping has come?
Beryl Travel Router
littleBits (Raspberry Pi)
Sponsor
00:46:05 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! -
Put That In Your Tinfoil Hat and Smoke It
Dive deep into a treasure trove of cool stuff found, from a lightning-fast AI image generator that might make you feel like you’re living in a Wall-E world or maybe just turn you into a cat, to Karabiner-Elements for customizing your Mac’s keyboard, showcasing the infinite customization possibilities for your tech lifestyle.
That’s right, on this week’s Mac Geek Gab, Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton also explore tools for enhancing your online security with DNS over HTTPS, utility gems like Particulars for macOS system information, and the Vasco Translator V4, ensuring you’re always understood, no matter where your adventures take you. The discussion shifts to smart home management with HomeLog for HomeKit, offering insights into your HomeKit activity that will make you want to put that in your tinfoil hat and smoke it. They didn’t forget about the online shoppers, highlighting the CNET Shopping Extension for snagging the best deals and the indispensable AirBuddy app for keeping tabs on your AirPods’ battery life, all while ensuring your tech gear is always on point with the latest gadgets like the Targus Cypress backpack and HyperPack Pro with FindMy.
The episode isn’t just about discoveries; it’s packed with quick tips to enhance your digital life, from using a shared note for those midnight musings to a shortcut that extends your Apple Watch’s battery life. They tackle listener questions head-on, solving mysteries from sudden watch battery drain to podcast volume drift potentially caused by an accidental Apple Watch crown spin, and even the best practices for merging Apple iCloud services into a family plan.
This episode is a masterclass in making the most of your Apple ecosystem, spiced up with show business insights and listener contributions that underscore the community’s vibrant engagement. Remember, in the ever-evolving tech landscape, stay informed, stay ahead, and “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared.
Chapters/Timestamps/Stuff mentioned:
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1028 for Monday, March 11th, 2024
March 11: National No-Code day
Cool Stuff Found
00:00:01 Patrick-CSF-SDXL Lightning – FAST AI Image Generator
We Might Live In Wall-E World or You’d Be a Cat
00:05:22 MyFaceIsTooBig-CSF-Particulars, a macOS System Information Utility
Pi-Hole DNS
1.1.1.1
DNS over HTTPS
00:11:23 TLatkins-CSF-HomeLog for HomeKit logs all HomeKit activity – MGG 1022
Put That in Your Tinfoil Hat and Smoke It
00:15:02 JG-CSF-Headway (like Blinkist, and on Setapp)
SetApp comes to EU iPhones
00:17:52 DaddyJapan-CSF-Karabiner-Elements for Customizing your Mac’s Keyboard
Sponsors
00:20:27 SPONSOR: BBEdit, the power tool for text from Bare Bones Software; now with integrated Notebooks and extended language support.
00:21:55 SPONSOR: Hims is changing men’s healthcare by providing convenient, -
Your RATGOCs Are Here
In this week’s episode of Mac Geek Gab with Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton, the trio dives deep into a plethora of tech tips that could revolutionize your digital lifestyle. Kicking things off with a savvy reminder from Craig about opting for Apple Engraving while preserving your device’s resale value, the conversation quickly moves to the underrated utility of Hot Corners and the magic of slide typing on an iPad. Notably, Peter brings a game-changer with BackBlaze’s data recovery solution, emphasizing its free USB restoration service.
For the aquatic adventurers, a quick tweak to prevent your Apple Watch Ultra from prematurely entering Depth mode could save your battery life. The episode also sheds light on miscellaneous quick fixes like using the Notes app for storing recipes and the significance of tracking IP address reservations to maintain your home network’s harmony.
The discussion seamlessly transitions to addressing listener queries, ranging from connecting Thunderbolt displays to Windows laptops, to changing iCloud email passwords, and even dissecting an unusual audio bug affecting your Mac’s left-right balance.
The hosts share insights into creating compelling show art using DALL-E prompts, underlining the importance of creativity in the tech space.
As the conversation wraps up, a critical reminder to safeguard your hearing steals the spotlight, with recommendations for products like Eargasm and Loop Earplugs to prevent auditory damage.
Throughout, the catchphrase “Don’t Get Caught” weaves its way into the narrative, serving as a clever nod to staying ahead in the fast-paced world of technology without falling prey to common pitfalls.
Chapters/Timestamps/Stuff mentioned:
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1027 for Monday, March 4th, 2024
March 4: International DM/GM Day
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Craig-QT-Apple Engraving that Doesn’t Lower Resale Value
00:03:51 Andrew-QT-Don’t forget about Hot Corners
StreamDeck
00:08:12 Harvey-QT-Slide typing in an iPad
00:11:42 Peter-QT-BackBlaze Saves the Day & USB Service is “Free” –
00:13:12 QT-Keep your Apple Watch Ultra from going into Depth mode (and burning battery) when casually swimming: Settings > General > Auto-Launch > Threshold When Submerged > At 3ft
Also “Background App Refresh” -> TONS of Apps working!
Sponsors
00:19:39 SPONSOR: Backblaze. Get a fully-featured no risk free trial at Backblaze.com/mgg. Go there, play with it, and start protecting yourself from potential bad times. Start Today!
00:21:22 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs. Go to LinkedIn.com/MGG and post your first job for free!
MOAR Quick Tips
00:22:42 JT Ray-QT-1026-Other UDP or Force Restart Fixes App Icons (maybe it’s like a Safe Mode restart?)
00:26:37 Todd-QT-1026-For recipes I just use Notes
Just The Recipe
Ulysses
Markdown
Marked App (available in Setapp)
David Sparks Markdown Fieldguide... -
We Need Realistic React Time
In this week’s episode of Mac Geek Gab, Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton dive into the intricacies of tech life, ensuring you’re equipped with the nerdiest of tips to streamline your digital existence. From the revelation that the Vision Pro battery indicator’s shyness disappears with a little shake, to the lifesaving advice of embracing the UDP method for your iPhone’s safety, the trio has you covered.
They didn’t stop there; the discussion ventured into the practicality of adding company logos to your contacts and creating a dedicated “Appointments” contact card for all your reminder texts. Meanwhile, the realm of queries from the audience brought to light the perennial question of the necessity of backups, with iCloud hailed for its ease of use, and the best practices for managing your Mac’s Network Service Order to optimize speed.
Tips on handling accidental notification taps and strategic advice for replacing drives in Synology DiskStations were also on the table, ensuring your tech toolkit is nothing short of comprehensive.
But it’s not all work and no play; the episode also explores the lighter side of tech with cool finds like ‘Just The Recipe’ for clutter-free cooking, and innovative uses of MagSafe mounts in the kitchen, proving that technology can indeed be your sous-chef.
Whether you’re a seasoned tech aficionado or a curious newbie, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your digital savvy. And remember, in the fast-evolving tech landscape, staying informed is your best armor. So, don your geekiest gear and dive into this treasure trove of tips and tricks. After all, in the wise words of the Mac Geek Gab crew, “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared in the digital world.
Chapters/Timestamps/Stuff mentioned:
* 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1026 for Monday, February 26th, 2024
Feb 26: National For Pete’s Sake Day
The MGG Discord Server is Live!
The MGG Merch Store is Live!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Mark M-QT-Vision Pro battery indicator only appears when battery is moved
00:02:52 More on Vision Pro Batteries
00:05:43 Rick-QT-Be aware of active search filters in Mail and other apps
00:07:09 David-QT-Remember the UDP method…it’ll save your bacon (and your iPhone) someday!
00:11:24 PorthosJon-QT-More Apple Vision Pro Tips
Waterfield Apple Vision Pro Shield Case
Lens Filter Pouch
00:19:04 Carsten-QT-Use Signal App for controlled sleep on sent messages
00:21:37 Ben-QT-Open and Close Finder Info Window with Command-I
00:24:44 Todd-QT-1024-Add Company Logos to Contacts, too
00:25:44 Andrew-QT-1024-Create an “Appointments” Contact Card for all appointment reminder Texts
Sponsors
00:27:17 SPONSOR: BetterHelp. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/GEEKGAB and get on your way to being your best self.
00:28:36 SPONSOR: Nom Nom. Your pet’s a member of the family–Give them Nom Nom. Go Right Now for 50% off your no-risk two week trial at TryNom.com/MGG -
The Egg & Chicken Problem
Dive into the latest Mac Geek Gab episode where Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton share the coolest Quick Tips and answer your burning questions, all while exploring the newest tech on the block. Discover how to leverage your Lock Screen widgets for instant app access, marvel at the Apple Vision Pro’s accessibility prowess, and get the scoop on smart switches for your most stubborn devices. Ever wondered about the secret predictors in Pixar movies or how to juggle multiple Safari windows with ease on your Vision Pro? They’ve got you covered. Plus, find out which AirPlay 2 receivers to consider, the smoothest transition away from Evernote, and whether one Thunderbolt hub can rule them all. And for those dual AirPods moments? Yes, you can share that movie experience seamlessly.
But that’s not all – the episode is packed with cool finds like a lens pen for keeping your gear spotless and Widgy for crafting widgets that satisfy even the deepest tech cravings. Whether you’re eyeing the Vision Pro, contemplating your note-taking app escape route, or plotting the perfect home tech setup, this episode is your go-to guide. Remember, in the fast-evolving world of tech, staying informed is key. So, tune in, soak up the wisdom, and as always, Don’t Get Caught unprepared in the digital age.
Chapters/Timestamps/Stuff mentioned:
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1025 for Monday, February 19th, 2024
Feb 19: National Chocolate Mint Day
The MGG Discord Server is Live!
The MGG Merch Store is Live!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Alex-QT-Use Lock Screen Widgets to Open Their Corresponding Apps
How does TrueDepth Work?
00:07:19 Mark-QT-Apple Vision Pro Accessibility Features
Equal Accessibility YouTube Channel
00:12:43 First Look at Vision Pro
Meta Quest 3
Quest supports Spatial Video
00:17:44 Dan-QT-1024-Use a smart switch to power cycle pesky devices
WALL•E
00:20:00 Pixar movies predict what Apple is going to do
00:24:08 Terry-QT-1024–You CAN have multiple Safari Windows with Vision Pro.
00:26:40 Terry-QT-Leave a clock open in Vision Pro so you can always know the time
00:30:06 Bill-QT-Use OnyX to Humanly Read Terminal Man Pages
Sponsors
00:31:36 SPONSOR: Hims is changing men’s healthcare by providing convenient, quality care, 100% online. Start your free online visit today at Hims.com/MGG.
00:32:57 SPONSOR: Factor. Save time with Factor’s fresh, never-frozen meals, ready to heat and eat in just 2 minutes! Head to FactorMeals.com/MGG50 with code MGG50 to get 50% off your first box.
00:34:31 SPONSOR: Zocdoc, the easiest way to find a great doctor and instantly book...
Customer Reviews
Super informative with engaging hosts!
Great show, always learn at least 5 new things! Love the hosts, they keep it fun and engaging. Got a tech question, they will help!
Stop the AI episode pictures
The AI episode pictures are troubling. I would rather see a human paid to make these images.
Great Show
Why two stars? Because I am a premium subscriber but contribute directly. I am constantly badgered to subscribe to premium via the podcast app and taunted with shows to witch I cannot listen. I also cannot hide the subscription request despite being a subscriber.