Piltch Point (Video‪)‬ PLUGHITZ Live

DescriptionAvram shares his recent work on testing and reviewing web hosting services for Tom's Hardware. He highlights the various types of web hosting available, including shared hosting, VPS (Virtual Private Server) hosting, and cloud hosting. Avram explains the pros and cons of each type, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right hosting plan based on your needs.
Choose a separate domain registrar wiselyWhen it comes to setting up a website, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing a domain registrar. A domain registrar is a company that allows you to register and manage your domain name. While many web hosting services offer the option to register a domain through them, it is often recommended to choose a separate domain registrar wisely.
One of the main reasons for this is the potential hassle of transferring your domain if you decide to switch hosting providers in the future. If your domain is tied to your hosting service, it can make the process of moving your website to a new host more complicated and time-consuming. This is because some hosting providers may make it difficult for you to transfer your domain away from them, especially if they offered you a free or discounted domain as part of your hosting package.
By choosing a separate domain registrar, you have more control over your domain and can easily transfer it to a new hosting provider if needed. Popular domain registrars like Namecheap and GoDaddy offer competitive pricing and user-friendly interfaces for managing your domain. These registrars also typically offer additional services such as domain privacy protection and email hosting.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a domain registrar is the renewal pricing. Some registrars may offer a low introductory price for the first year of registration, but then significantly increase the price for renewals. By choosing a reputable registrar with transparent pricing policies, you can avoid any unexpected price hikes when it comes time to renew your domain.
Choose VPS for flexibility & controlWhen it comes to choosing a hosting plan for your website, the podcast highlights the importance of selecting the right option based on your specific needs. Shared hosting may be suitable for simple websites with minimal traffic, but it has limitations in terms of control and flexibility. On the other hand, VPS hosting offers a higher level of control over your server, allowing you to reboot the server, install software, upgrade the OS, and run various scripts with ease.
VPS hosting, which stands for virtual private server, provides a virtual full server experience while sharing a physical server with other users. This means that you have more control and flexibility compared to shared hosting plans. With VPS hosting, you can customize your server to meet your specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance for your website.
Cloud hosting provides speedCloud web hosting utilizes a network of virtual and physical servers to host websites, offering a significant advantage over traditional single-server hosting. This network of servers pools computing resources, providing greater scalability and flexibility, which enables quick changes and high uptime for your website.
One of the key benefits of cloud hosting is its resilience. If any server in the network experiences issues, your site will remain operational, and its performance will not be affected. This is particularly beneficial for businesses and organizations that require high availability and reliability. Moreover, cloud hosting services provide broad platform support, including various CMS options like WordPress, Drupal, Joomla, and more. They also offer flexible pricing models, ensuring you are charged only for the resources you use.
While cloud hosting can offer speed and performance benefits, it may have limitations in terms of control and flexibility compared to VPS hosting. Cloud hosting allocates resources efficient

DescriptionCopilot+ PCs are a new line of laptops that have recently been released, featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors and running Windows. These PCs come with exclusive features that are not available on other Windows devices with Intel or AMD processors. Avram discussed these exclusive features and their functionalities.
Exclusive features on Copilot+ PCOne of the exclusive features on Copilot+ PCs is Recall, which allows users to have a digital perfect memory. This feature has been advertised by Microsoft in recent days, although it has been delayed indefinitely. Recall is designed to constantly spy on users and remember their digital activities, providing a unique and potentially controversial functionality.
Another exclusive feature on Copilot+ PCs is Cocreator, which is integrated into Microsoft Paint. Cocreator is a tool that assists users in drawing by providing prompts and suggestions. For example, users can draw a simple line and then prompt the tool to generate ideas, such as a cat driving a car. While this feature may not be groundbreaking, it adds a fun and interactive element to the drawing experience on these devices.
Windows on ARM technical achievementAdditionally, Avram discusses the technical achievements of Windows on ARM, specifically in terms of performance and battery life. The Snapdragon processors in these laptops are said to be on par with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and offer good battery life, although not groundbreaking. While the performance and battery life of these laptops are commendable, they may not necessarily be a selling point for consumers, especially given the higher price point compared to Intel and AMD processors.
Furthermore, he highlights the compatibility of Windows on ARM with x86 software, although there are still some compatibility issues with certain games. The podcast suggests that while Windows on ARM is a technical achievement in terms of compatibility and performance, it may not be a necessary purchase for consumers, especially considering the upcoming advancements in Intel and AMD processors.
In conclusion, Windows on ARM is seen as a technical achievement in terms of performance, battery life, and compatibility with x86 software. However, the limited offline functionality and higher price point compared to traditional processors may make it a less appealing option for consumers. Moving forward, it will be important for Microsoft and Qualcomm to continue improving compatibility and performance to make Windows on ARM a more competitive option in the market.
Snapdragon laptops have competition comingOne key point mentioned is the upcoming release of new AMD and Intel laptops with faster NPUs. This indicates that competition in the market is increasing, and consumers will have more options to choose from. Additionally, the possibility of laptops powered by different ARM CPUs in the future could lead to more affordable options for consumers.
Avram also highlights the challenges faced in testing local AI workloads on Snapdragon laptops due to the limitations of Qualcomm's developer center. This indicates that there is still room for improvement in terms of compatibility and performance with certain workloads. However, the potential for faster transcription, image generation, and recognition tasks on Snapdragon processors shows promise for future advancements.
Conclusion: A step forward for ARM without much benefitThe end result is that the advancement of Windows on ARM is a positive one for the technology. Improved battery life and application compatibility make the hardware a more attractive possibility than previous iterations. However, the benefits of Copilot+ PCs is undercut by the fact that the exclusive features are not that interesting or missing entirely.
ParticipantsScott ErtzHostScott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporti

DescriptionThis week, Avram Piltch discusses his concerns about the use of AI to generate and present information as an arbiter of truth. He specifically talks about Google's AI overview, previously known as Google SGE, which has recently been rolled out to everyone in the United States. He expresses his strong feelings about the potential for AI-generated information to be misleading, especially when presented as authoritative facts without acknowledging differing viewpoints or ongoing legal disputes.
AI-generated information can be misleadingHe gives an example of a search query about whether training data is considered fair use under US copyright law. The AI overview provided by Google confidently states that training AI models using publicly available internet materials is generally considered fair use. However, Avram points out that this statement is presented as a fact, without mentioning the ongoing lawsuits against OpenAI and the debate surrounding the issue.
He highlights the danger of people trusting AI-generated information blindly, assuming that Google's answers are always correct. He emphasizes the importance of presenting information in a balanced and objective manner, acknowledging different perspectives and ongoing legal disputes.
Customize search results with an extensionAvram has created a browser extension that allows users to skip the AI-generated answers and get right to the results. The extension, called Bye Bye, Google AI uses CSS manipulation in order to suppress the AI areas of the search results. This approach allows the extension to work without the user having to do anything special.
One of the key benefits of customizing search results with CSS is the ability to personalize the browsing experience and filter out irrelevant or distracting content. Avram discusses how he was inspired to create his own browser extension after seeing another extension that allowed users to hide elements on Google search results pages. By developing his own extension, He was able to provide users with more options for customizing their search experience and tailor the results to their liking.
However, Avram also acknowledges the limitations of using CSS to customize search results. He notes that Google can update its algorithms at any time, potentially breaking the functionality of his extension and causing unexpected issues, such as making certain elements disappear from the page. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to refining his extension and addressing any issues that may arise, demonstrating his dedication to providing users with a valuable tool for customizing their search experience.
Avoid AI by using web tabAvram discusses the issue of AI-generated search results and offers a solution for those who prefer to avoid them. He introduces the concept of the "web tab," which presents search results in a more traditional format without AI-generated content such as featured snippets, videos, and discussions. He acknowledges that while AI technology can be helpful, it is not always accurate or reliable, leading some users to seek alternatives.
He also provides a workaround for accessing the web tab directly without the need for his extension. By creating a custom search engine in the browser settings with the parameter "UDM=14," users can bypass AI-generated search results and go straight to the web tab. This allows users to access a more traditional search experience without the influence of AI-generated content.
However, Avram notes that this solution may not be as easily accessible on mobile devices, as popular mobile browsers like Chrome and Safari do not offer the same customization options for search engines. While Firefox does provide a feature for adding custom search engines, users of other mobile browsers may have limited options for avoiding AI-generated content.
AI-generated search results can be misleadingAI-generated search results can be misleading. Avram discusses his experiences with AI-ge

DescriptionThe tech topic of 2024 has been and will continue to be AI. And, as with any tech trend, software inevitably begets dedicated hardware. The first generation of AI-focused hardware appears to be a collection of solutions searching for a problem to solve.
AI pin is overpriced and unnecessaryThe AI pin is a novel hardware product that has recently hit the market, but it is receiving negative reviews due to its high price and lack of practicality. Priced at $699 plus a $24 monthly subscription fee, the Humane AI pin is designed to be worn on the body and act as a standalone device with its own cellular connection. However, despite its futuristic design and features, it has failed to impress consumers and tech experts alike.
One of the main criticisms of the AI pin is its high price point. At nearly $700, the device is significantly more expensive than most smartphones on the market. This steep price tag, combined with the additional monthly subscription fee, makes it a luxury item that many consumers may not be willing to invest in. Furthermore, the AI pin's limited functionality and performance issues make it difficult to justify its high cost.
In terms of functionality, the AI pin falls short of expectations. While it is marketed as a voice-activated assistant that can answer questions, take pictures, and provide information, users have reported that it is slow, unreliable, and lacks basic features that are commonly found on smartphones. For example, the AI pin struggles to set timers, has a limited battery life, and is uncomfortable to wear due to overheating issues. Additionally, its projection-based interface is clunky and difficult to use, further diminishing its appeal.
Ultimately, the AI pin's lackluster performance and high price make it an unnecessary and impractical device for most consumers. With smartphones already offering a wide range of features and capabilities, there is little incentive for users to invest in a separate device that offers inferior functionality. While the concept of a wearable AI assistant may be appealing in theory, the AI pin fails to deliver on its promises and falls short of expectations. In conclusion, the AI pin is overpriced and unnecessary, and consumers would be better off sticking with their smartphones for their digital assistant needs.
Rabbit R1 phone is questionableThe Rabbit R1 phone is a questionable product that has raised concerns among consumers and tech enthusiasts. The podcast transcript highlights several key issues with the device, including its high price, limited functionality, and questionable marketing tactics.
One of the main criticisms of the Rabbit R1 is its price point, which is described as outrageous. The podcast hosts compare it to the Palm Phone, another niche device with a high price tag. The fact that the Rabbit R1 is not even wearable adds to the confusion surrounding its purpose and value proposition.
The lack of practicality and usefulness of the Rabbit R1 is also called into question. The hosts express confusion over the concept of leaving your phone at home only to carry a separate device that essentially functions as a phone. They suggest that a 4G watch would serve a similar purpose more effectively, as it is smaller and more convenient to use.
Furthermore, the podcast hosts discuss the device's battery life, which is reported to be only two hours. This is a major drawback for a device that is supposed to replace or supplement a smartphone. The comparison is made to other products on the market that offer longer battery life and better functionality at a lower price point.
The marketing tactics employed by Rabbit, such as not sending out review units and claiming to have sold 100,000 units before the product was even launched, raise further suspicions about the legitimacy of the company and its product. The hosts express skepticism about these claims and question the motives behind such tactics.
In conclusion, the Rabbit R1 phone is a quest

DescriptionThe Vintage Computer Festival East is an annual event held in New Jersey that celebrates the history and nostalgia of old computers. Attending this festival is like taking a trip down memory lane, where you can see, touch, and even play with vintage computers from the past. The Vintage Computer Festival East was a showcase of a wide array of old computers, each evoking a sense of nostalgia and admiration. The unique features of each computer were highlighted, from the small keyboard of the Cosmac to the green CRT monitors that are no longer commonly used.
Vintage Computer Festival East memoriesOne of the highlights of the festival is the museum portion, where visitors can see a collection of old CPUs, including the 8086, 286, 386, and 486. These CPUs may bring back memories for those who have used them in the past, and it's a reminder not to throw away old technology as it can still hold value and significance.
Another interesting exhibit at the festival was the Xerox Star 8010, a computer with a GUI that predates the Macintosh GUI. This computer was primarily used for business purposes but had a user interface that resembled the iconic Mac interface we know today. It's fascinating to see the evolution of technology and how certain features and designs have influenced modern computing.
The festival also featured the PCjr, a less successful sibling of the IBM PC, and a TI-branded luggable computer. These computers may not have been as popular or successful as their counterparts, but they still hold a special place in computer history.
One of the most memorable experiences at the festival was playing with an original Commodore PET. The PET was Commodore's first major personal computer, released around the same time as the Apple II and the TRS-80 in 1977. Playing with this computer brought back memories of the early days of personal computing and the excitement of exploring new technology.
Overall, the Vintage Computer Festival East is a unique and nostalgic experience for computer enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It's a reminder of how far technology has come and the impact that these vintage computers have had on the evolution of computing. Attending this festival is not just a trip down memory lane, but a celebration of the history and innovation of old computers.
Old computers evoke nostalgiaA key theme that emerged from the event was the sentimental value that these old computers hold for the attendees. Stories were shared about first computers, such as the TI-99/4A and the Apple II, and anecdotes about the software and games that used to run on these machines. These old computers evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting individuals back to a simpler time when computing was still in its infancy.
Technical aspects of the vintage computers were also discussed, such as the PowerPC chip inside the BeBox and the monochrome screens of the Osborne and TRS-80 computers. There was a fascination with the sharpness of the text on these old monitors and a lament for the inability to replicate the same experience on modern LCD screens. This longing for the unique features of old computers speaks to the emotional connection that individuals have with these machines, beyond just their functionality.
The history of certain prototype computers, such as Microsoft Neptune and the Mac OS version that never came to fruition, was also explored. These failed attempts at innovation serve as a reminder of the risks and challenges that come with pushing the boundaries of technology. Despite their lack of success, these prototype computers still hold a special place in the hearts of computer enthusiasts, as they represent a glimpse into what could have been.
Conclusion: History and nostalgia at onceIn conclusion, the Vintage Computer Festival East exemplifies the nostalgia and reverence that old computers evoke in individuals. These vintage machines are not just relics of the past, but symbols of innovation, perseverance, and the end

DescriptionCustomizing the right-click menu in Windows can greatly enhance the user experience and productivity. By making a few simple tweaks, users can access a wider range of options and functions directly from the context menu, without the need to navigate through multiple menus or windows.
Customize Windows right-click menuOne of the most common complaints about the right-click menu in Windows 11 is the limited number of options that are displayed by default. Users often have to click on "Show More Options" to access additional functions, which can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially when working on complex tasks.
Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this problem. By editing the Windows registry, users can customize the right-click menu to display all available options without the need for extra clicks. This can be done by creating a new registry key and setting the default value to blank, which will remove the "Show More Options" prompt and display all options directly in the context menu.
To customize the right-click menu, users can follow these steps:Launch the registry editor by searching for "regedit" and opening it.Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClassesCLSID and create a new key with the name "{86CA1AA0-34AA-AE8B-A509-50C905BAE2A2}" if it does not already exist.Create a new key under that key called "InprocServer32".Set the default value of "InprocServer32" to blank and close the registry editor.Sign out and sign back in to see the changes reflected in the right-click menu.By customizing the right-click menu in Windows, users can access a wide range of options and functions directly from the context menu, making it easier to perform tasks and navigate through the operating system. This simple tweak can greatly improve the user experience and efficiency when using Windows 11 or Windows 10.
Customize right-click menu shortcutsAvram also discusses various methods for customizing right-click menu shortcuts in Windows, offering tips and tricks to make accessing frequently used programs and functions easier and more convenient. Adding a custom item to the menu is a useful capability, allowing users to quickly launch an app with just a few clicks. This is achieved through the use of the registry editor, where users can create new keys and commands to add custom shortcuts to the menu.
In order to add your own custom menu item, users can follow these steps:Launch the registry editor by searching for "regedit" and opening it.Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDirectoryBackgroundshell and create a new key with the name you want to show in the menu - in this case "Avram".Under your new key, create another key called "Command" where capitalization matters.Under "Command" open the "Default" entry and set the value data to the full path to the application you want to run.Sign out and sign back in to see the changes reflected in the right-click menu.Custom search engines for efficiencyCustom search engines are another powerful tool that can greatly enhance efficiency when browsing the internet. By creating custom search engines in browsers like Chrome, users can streamline their search process and quickly access information from their favorite websites.
Avram mentioned two ways to create custom search engines in Chrome. The first method involves installing an extension he created called Search My Site, which allows users to set up specific search parameters for a particular website. By simply typing a designated key followed by a space in the address bar, users can instantly search the specified website without having to navigate to the site first.
The second method involves manually creating a custom search engine in Chrome settings. By assigning a name and a key to the search engine, users can input the search string for the website they want to search. This method allows for more customization, as users can specify additional parameters such as excluding certain domains or filtering search results based on spe