Rich On Tech

• TVs returned after the Super Bowl: Returns management firm B‑Stock says TV returns jump more than 100% after the big game, a practice known as “wardrobing.” Vizio is the most-returned brand, highlighting how buyers prioritize size and price over long-term satisfaction. • Wireless carriers customers like best: New rankings from J.D. Power show satisfaction is driven less by price and more by how easy it is to resolve problems. T-Mobile leads among major carriers, while Mint Mobile and Visible top prepaid and MVNO categories. • Nancy Guthrie case raises major tech questions: Investigators are relying on timestamps from a doorbell camera, home security system, pacemaker app, and smartphone data to build a timeline. The case highlights how device connectivity, Bluetooth range, and cloud storage affect what evidence is available. • Doorbell cameras and subscriptions matter: Many popular brands including Ring and Arlo lock video history behind paid plans. Local-storage options like Blink and subscription-free brands offer alternatives, but each comes with tradeoffs. • VoIP burner numbers aren’t fully anonymous: A suspect sending fake ransom messages was traced through a VoIP texting service. Even burner numbers can be linked back to email accounts and IP addresses when providers respond to warrants. • Could people be tracked like pets in the future?: A caller asked whether cases like Guthrie’s could push families toward implantable tracking tech. AirTags and wearables have limits, and implantable tracking raises serious privacy and ethical concerns. • Super Bowl streaming isn’t always free: The game is available in 4K HDR on Peacock, but requires a paid subscription. That’s a shift from last year’s free streaming on Tubi, and something hosts should warn guests about before kickoff. • Prediction markets blur the line with gambling: Platforms offering event contracts on sports, politics, and culture feel like sportsbooks but operate under different rules. Supporters say they’re federally regulated markets, while critics argue they normalize betting behavior. • Apple Cash account lockouts frustrate users: A listener whose Apple Cash account was permanently closed was told there’s no appeal process. Alternatives like Venmo and Cash App offer similar features with debit cards and Apple Wallet support. • Windows 10 holdouts face a deadline: Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program offers one more year of patches after Windows 10 support ends. It reduces risk, but users running older systems still need to be cautious about phishing and malware. • Siri settlement checks and safer payouts: Payments around $40 are going out, but claiming them requires entering bank details. Using routing numbers from PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App can add a layer of protection. • Amazon’s delivery speed explained: Amazon says AI now predicts what people will buy and pre-positions items closer to customers, enabling same-day, next-day, and even 30-minute delivery for everyday essentials. • CES 2026 computers focus on efficiency: Guest Dan Ackerman says new chips from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm prioritize battery life and AI tasks. Rollable screens and expandable displays are moving from concept to store shelves. • AI PCs still confuse buyers: “AI PC” branding refers to local processing for tasks like video effects and transcription, not cloud tools like ChatGPT. Most users don’t need to upgrade just for AI yet. • Social media lawsuits compare to tobacco and opioids: Trial attorney James Rubinowitz says cases argue platforms were deliberately engineered to be addictive to children. Large verdicts could force design changes like limits on infinite scroll. • Robot dog ads spark complaints: The Wuffy AI robot dog is drawing Better Business Bureau complaints after buyers receive a cheap toy that doesn’t match online ads. The case underscores the need to verify sellers and return policies before buying viral products. • Tech support memberships compared: Geek Squad, Asurion, and HelloTech offer annual plans, but Rich notes local independent techs can be a better fit if you vet them carefully and avoid sponsored search results. • Common scams growing more sophisticated: Listeners reported fake carrier notifications, remote-access malware disguised as documents, and bogus healthcare alerts. The key rule: never call numbers from texts or search results — use official sites or the back of your card. • Crypto volatility wipes out paper millionaires: Bitcoin’s sharp drop pushed thousands below millionaire status, reinforcing that crypto remains highly speculative and tied more to sentiment than everyday utility. • Computer Exorcist warns about modern PCs: Guest Mark Anthony Arena says antivirus software often misses today’s threats, and integrated storage in modern laptops makes data recovery harder without backups. • Listeners push back on addictive tech culture: Callers raised concerns about kids’ games, gambling-style rewards, and constant gratification. The consensus: tech isn’t going backward, so families need better guardrails and awareness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rich talked about how it’s the end of an era for Sony TVs. They will soon be manufactured by TCL under the Bravia name. Rich talked about how TikTok has a new lease on life with a deal to stay in the U.S. Rich discussed the privacy policy and terms of conditions for the new TikTok US. Verizon shared some tips for keeping your tech working in a major winter storm. Turns out Microsoft can share your BitLocker encryption key if it gets a valid warrant from the U.S. and you store it in their cloud. Windows 11 updates are causing widespread problems. You could be overpaying for ride shares. A new study says you should open up both the Lyft and Uber app to compare prices. Cesar in San Diego asked for some TV recommendations. Rich found the 75-inch TCL QM7K on sale at Best Buy for under a $1000. If you live in an area that has Frontier internet and it’s becoming Verizon internet, you should call Verizon and see what kind of deals they can give you. They’ve got aggressive mobile and home bundles now. Scott is wondering if he should sign up for every free offer for identity theft protection he gets in the mail. Rich actually likes freezing your credit. Connie is wondering how to have her husband listen to the TV through the speaker and she listens through earbuds. Rich recommended Bluetooth headphones if your TV supports both audio outputs at the same time or check out solutions from Avantree. Mary wants to keep her Samsung Android safe from malware and viruses. Rich recommends turning on Auto Blocker in Settings under Security and Privacy, enabling Enhanced Safe Browsing in Chrome, and considering the free Sophos Intercept X app for extra protection. Jim in San Diego says the keys on his HP laptop are wearing off. What should he do? Rich tossed out that he could buy stickers from Amazon to replace them. HP Warranty Checker Amanda Spann, app educator and founder of The App Accelerator, will break down how everyday professionals can turn an app idea into a real product without being technical. Book: I Have an App Idea. Ads are coming to ChatGPT. Melody in Carlsbad is wondering why her printer isn’t working after a power outage. Rich discussed some of the most AI-resistant jobs. Rich mentioned a new AI voice-to-text keyboard for Android called Typeless. Mario wants a second phone number for entering contests. Rich mentioned Google Voice, Sly Number, and TextFree. Michael wants to know how to wipe his computer clean before he recycles it. Rich also mentioned Killdisk and Disk Wipe. David wants to know why his browser suddenly uses Yahoo instead of Google. Rich says he might have installed a bad extension. You can go into Google Chrome Settings. Under reset settings, restore them to the original. A new report says the free-TV startup Telly has shipped about 35,000 TVs, fewer than their promises. If you want to check out Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold phone, it is in select Samsung experience stores now. Spectrum has Wi-Fi 7 extenders now if you want better coverage in your house. Rich mentioned his favorite two factor app called Proton Authenticator. Patty is looking to use Apple’s hide my email feature. Rich mentioned the Zoe Health app. Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more - plus interviews with industry experts - all in this weekly show. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here. How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR - New York City, Sundays from 8 PM - 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Subscribe to the podcast. Follow Rich on Instagram. Subscribe to my free newsletter. Check out the Rich On Tech GPT! Links may be affiliate. Rich on Tech Weekly airs on KTLA+. You can download the app on Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rich talked about attending CES 2026 in Las Vegas and some of the trends he saw, including robots, AI, and wacky gadgets. Rich mentioned using the WiFi sharing feature on Android phones. If you got an email about an Instagram Password Reset request, ignore it for now, but be sure you have a strong, unique password and two-factor authentication turned on. Arnold from Rancho Cucamonga is wondering why his cloud storage isn’t saving files. Rich mentioned free versions of Office apps here. Rich mentioned the Lollipop Star, which plays music in your mouth as you suck it. Rich mentioned how TCL released its 2026 flagship TV, the X11L, the same time as they announced it at CES, which is rare. Rich mentioned the ChocoStar vending machine that 3D prints a chocolate figurine on demand. Rich mentioned a startup that’s making a digital doorlock for public restrooms so you pay for access. Flush Locks USA. Mark in Seattle wants a digital door lock and a thermostat to manage his VRBO. Rich mentioned digital locks from Schlage, Yale and Lockly, along with Nest Thermostat and Ecobee. Vanessa in Pahrump Nevada wants to know how to move from Lastpass to Bitwarden. Rich mentioned iPolish, which is a startup making digital color-changing nails. He also referenced Lee Press on Nails. WATCH Gmail is giving users AI features for free, which were previously paid. A caller asks why her iPhone plays the same song each time she gets in the car. Rich says to set a silent MP3 to fix this. Matt Swider from The Shortcut joins to break down the biggest trends at CES and explain which products earned this year’s Shortcut CES Awards and why they matter to consumers. Rich mentioned laptop screen extenders from a company named XEBEC. Mary in Riverside wants to ditch the paid version of AOL. Rich mentioned a few more gadgets from CES including PlantPetz, Seattle Ultrasonics Chef’s Knife, Glyde Smart Hair Clipper, Iceplosion, Chamelo tint changing glasses. Linda in San Pedro wants to know what happens if she subscribes to a YouTube Channel. Will in Colorado Springs wants to know how to reconnect to the internet. Kate Rouch, Chief Marketing Officer at OpenAI, joins to explain the new ChatGPT Health experience. Rich mentioned wearing the Bee device, which listens to your life 24/7 to offer insights. Rich on Tech Weekly airs on KTLA+. You can download the app on Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs. Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more - plus interviews with industry experts - all in this weekly show. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here. How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR - New York City, Sundays from 8 PM - 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Subscribe to the podcast. Follow Rich on Instagram. Subscribe to my free newsletter. Links may be affiliate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

• Wizard of Oz immersive experience at the Sphere: The Las Vegas Sphere premiered a reimagined 1939 Wizard of Oz film using AI to enhance resolution, expand backgrounds, and add crowds for its massive 16K wraparound screen. Physical effects like wind, rumbling seats, falling apples, snow, and fire created intense immersion, making it a standout tech-driven entertainment event despite higher ticket prices. • Securing phones against unauthorized access: Repeated phone issues may stem from compromised accounts rather than direct hacking, as iOS and Android are highly secure against remote control. Users should change passwords on Apple ID, Google, and social media accounts, enable two-factor authentication, and log out of all devices via security settings for protection. • Recommended power banks for iPhone and iPad: The Belkin Boost Charge 20K power bank offers 20,000 mAh capacity with USB-C and USB-A ports for reliable charging of Apple devices. Anker models provide similar performance at potentially lower prices, though recent recalls note caution with the brand. • Projectors as TV replacements: Lifestyle and ultra-short-throw projectors are gaining popularity for large-screen viewing in homes, backyards, or small spaces, offering brighter images and better sound than flat panels. Key considerations include brightness for ambient light, smart features, and specialized screens; premium options start around $2,500. • Projector recommendations and trends: High-end models like the Epson QL7000 provide extreme brightness for lit rooms, while budget options under $500, such as the Yaber V12 or Epson EpiqVision, deliver solid performance. Gaming and sports viewing benefit from low input lag and large projected sizes. • Clever Cleaner app for iPhone storage: This free, ad-free AI app scans for similar photos, large videos, screenshots, and Live Photos to help reclaim storage locally on the device. Deletions sync to iCloud if enabled, so users must confirm they no longer need files; Android alternatives include Files by Google or Remo. • Understanding passkeys for logins: Passkeys replace passwords with device-based tokens for more secure, phishing-resistant authentication across Windows, iOS, and password managers like Bitwarden. They can coexist with traditional passwords and work seamlessly when set up on low-stakes sites, though two-factor authentication may add steps. • Fixing Android software update issues: Pixel phones prefer Wi-Fi for updates; failed downloads often result from incorrect saved network passwords. Users should forget and reconnect to Wi-Fi, reset network settings, or check Google Play system updates separately from main OS updates for new features. • New self-driving rides in Las Vegas: Amazon's Zoox RoboTaxi service offers free rides in driverless vehicles without steering wheels or pedals, featuring face-to-face seating. Available via the Zoox app on iOS and Android, it operates as a beta test in Las Vegas streets. • iPhone 17 series highlights: The lineup introduces the thin, durable iPhone Air with Pro-level performance, ProMotion displays across models for smoother scrolling, and brighter, scratch-resistant screens. Storage starts at 256GB, with improved cameras and carrier trade-in deals up to $1,100. • Finding lost Android phones: Use android.com/find logged into the owner's Google account to locate devices with active battery and service, play sounds, or secure remotely. If offline or dead, last known location may not appear; third-party tracking services charging fees are often unreliable. • Reinstalling Windows 10 cleanly: Downloading a fresh Windows 10 ISO from Microsoft and installing via bootable drive provides a cleaner, more up-to-date setup than using older recovery partitions. This reduces post-install updates needed on aging systems. • Disabling Windows Recall feature: Microsoft's Recall takes periodic screenshots for searchability but raises privacy concerns; disable it via Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & Snapshots by turning off "Save snapshots." Advanced users can use WinAero Tweaker for deeper system customizations. • Esports industry overview: Esports ranks as the third most-watched sport globally, with teams like Team Liquid competing in games such as League of Legends and Valorant. After a post-2014 investment bubble burst, consolidation has strengthened top organizations while fan growth continues due to younger demographics. • Cheaper Tesla Model Y and Model 3 options: New entry-level variants start under $40,000 with solid range but omit features like autopilot, rear screens, and panoramic roofs. The revived Chevy Bolt EV returns next year under $30,000 with Tesla supercharger compatibility but no CarPlay. • Windows XP-themed Crocs release: Microsoft-themed Crocs feature the classic Bliss wallpaper design and charms like Clippy and Internet Explorer, now available for purchase at $80 after high demand from an initial giveaway. Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more—plus interviews with industry experts—all in this weekly show. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here. How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 – Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM – 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR – New York City, Sundays from 8 PM – 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Get the podcast to via RSS, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and anywhere else you listen to audio. Follow Rich on X, Instagram and Facebook. Download the MP3 here (choose episode, then scroll to bottom of page and look for ”Download”) Paid newsletter subscribers get ad-free, HQ audio here. Referral links for services I like. Amazon storefront for products I like. RichOnTech.tv Links may be affiliate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rich talked about how he set up an instant surround-sound home theater system using Amazon Echo speakers and shared a tip on how to turn off autoplay ads on Fire TV devcies. Brian in Atlanta is wondering why his old iPads don’t connect to his new Wi-Fi router. Rich suggested deleting the old wifi network or doing a network settings reset. Instagram adds a new feature called “Your Algorithm” that lets you fine-tune what shows up in your reels. Peter Kafka, chief correspondent at Business Insider, will break down the latest in the mega streaming deal between Neflix and Warner Bros. Lewis in Riverside is wondering why his phone won’t schedule text messages. Rich mentioned downloading Google Messages. Gadget of the week is the Pebble Index 01. It turns your finger into an instant voice notes button. Gadget of the week is sponsored by Shopback. Use code RichOnTech for a $20 bonus. Android adds live video to 911 calls. Beverly is wondering why information on her Google Calendar disappears after a few years. Rich says to adjust the sync setting in on her app. Devin in Las Vegas wants to mount four screens, four TVs, and turn them into one giant screen. Rich mentioned a 2x2 HDMI controller. Rich also mentioned LiquidView, which makes digital windows. Mark in St. Petersburg wonders if there’s a good app to help clean up his iPhone. Rich mentioned the free Clever Cleaner app. You can also go into iPhone settings, General, iPhone Storage, and tap Show All next to Recommendations to clean things up. Stephen Hawthorne wants to use Apple’s Live Translate but has an older model iPhone. The Aura Digital photo frame now lets you text pictures to it. Nick Merrill will explain how his new privacy-first carrier Phreeli works. Joy in San Diego wants to know how to learn the very basics of the iPhone. Mentioned: iPhone for Seniors for Dummies If you want to add an AI assistant to your Apple Watch, Rich says to check out Chirp AI. they also make a tiny web browser for the Apple Watch screen called Ant. Brad in LA wants an iPhone with a Home button. Rich recommended the iPhone SE3 from Back Market Frank in Apple Lake, NY asks if he can control his computer with voice. Rich mentioned Windows 11 Voice Access and Wispr Flow and ChatGPT Voice Mode. Roberto Baldwin, mobility journalist with SAE Media Group, will break down the latest trends shaping the future of transportation. Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more—plus interviews with industry experts—all in this weekly show. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here. How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 – Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM – 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR – New York City, Sundays from 8 PM – 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Get the podcast to via RSS, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and anywhere else you listen to audio. Follow Rich on X, Instagram and Facebook. Download the MP3 here (choose episode, then scroll to bottom of page and look for ”Download”) Paid newsletter subscribers get ad-free, HQ audio here. Referral links for services I like. Amazon storefront for products I like. RichOnTech.tv Links may be affiliate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re off for the holiday weekend, so we’ve pulled together some of our favorite segments from past shows. Enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving! • Microsoft unveils Majorana 1 quantum chip: Microsoft introduced a groundbreaking quantum computing chip using a new material called topoconductor, a novel state of matter theorized for 100 years. The chip promises faster problem-solving in fields like healthcare and energy, with improved error resistance and potential to accelerate quantum development from decades to years. • Arlo app update frustrates users: Callers reported the new Arlo Secure app is overly complicated, making it hard to manage multiple camera systems, set schedules, and access alerts. Issues mirror Sonos app complaints; some users unable to revert to old app or resolve via support, with speculation the changes push additional subscriptions. • Google brings screen search to iPhone: Google added “Search this screen” with Lens in the Chrome and Google apps for iOS, allowing users to analyze on-screen content without screenshots. It’s not as seamless as Android’s Circle to Search but improves text, image, and link extraction inside supported apps. • Career Dreamer AI tool launched: Google’s free Grow with Google tool uses AI to suggest career paths based on skills, interests, and job market data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It also generates resumes and cover letters; access at grow.google/careerdreamer. • Connecting third-party cameras to Wyze: Wyze systems generally require Wyze-brand cameras for full app integration; third-party cams may work in Google Home for basic viewing but lose advanced features and typically need separate apps. • iPhone 16e unveiled at $599: Apple launched the budget-friendly iPhone 16e with Apple-designed C1 5G modem (no mmWave ultra-fast speeds), Action button, Apple Intelligence, OLED display, and strong battery life. Lacks MagSafe and has Face ID instead of Touch ID; positioned as a modern XR-style value model. • UK loses Advanced Data Protection: Apple removed end-to-end encrypted iCloud backups in the UK after government pressure for potential law-enforcement access. Feature remains available elsewhere; Face ID data stays on-device and secure. • Radiant Photo app perfects images instantly: Free mobile app (iOS/Android) uses AI to automatically enhance photos with one tap, ideal for social media posting. Works without subscription; also recommended Adobe Lightroom Mobile (dehaze tool) and Halide/Zero Cam for non-AI photography. • Recovering a deleted video after one year: Videos deleted over a year ago are permanently gone from iPhone with no reliable recovery app. Check Recently Deleted (30-day window), iCloud/full backups, or services like Google Photos/Amazon Photos for future protection. • Best Android music players for local files: Recommended options include Pulsar (Android Auto compatible), YouTube Music (upload your own library for free), Double Twist, and Samsung Music (on Samsung devices). • AI transcription tools for interviews: Top choices include Otter.ai (business-focused), Descript (editing + transcription), Whisper Memos, MacWhisper, and free Hugging Face Whisper Web for quick browser-based transcription of audio files. • FlyFin AI simplifies taxes: AI-powered app connects to bank accounts, auto-categorizes expenses year-round, flags potential deductions, and offers CPA filing. Significantly easier and cheaper than traditional CPA for freelancers and individuals. • Reviving an old laptop with depleted battery: If a 6-year-old HP laptop won’t stay on even when plugged in, replace the battery ($100–$300) at a repair shop or consider a new device like the M4 MacBook Air ($899) for long-term reliability. • Healthcare misinformation on social media: Dr. Geeta Nayyar warns against TikTok health trends; verify sources (medical associations), watch for “always/never” claims, avoid paid supplements, and consult personal physicians or telemedicine for tailored advice. • Restaurant QR-code bill splitting with Sunday: New table QR codes at some restaurants (like Pecora Bianca) let diners scan, choose items, split bills, and pay instantly via Apple/Google Pay—no waiter needed. • External mic issues on budget Android phones: Many lower-end models like Galaxy A15 lack full external microphone support; premium devices (Pixel, iPhone, flagship Samsung) reliably work with DJI or Rode wireless mics. Record audio separately if needed and sync in editing software. Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more—plus interviews with industry experts—all in this weekly show. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here. How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 – Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM – 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR – New York City, Sundays from 8 PM – 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Get the podcast to via RSS, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and anywhere else you listen to audio. Follow Rich on X, Instagram and Facebook. Download the MP3 here (choose episode, then scroll to bottom of page and look for ”Download”) Paid newsletter subscribers get ad-free, HQ audio here. Referral links for services I like. Amazon storefront for products I like. RichOnTech.tv Links may be affiliate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

• Tesla testing CarPlay support Bloomberg reports Tesla is experimenting with CarPlay in a windowed mode on its infotainment screen. If it ships, owners would finally get wireless CarPlay for Siri, maps, and music apps that Tesla’s system doesn’t offer today.   • Apple introduces digital ID for travel iPhone and Apple Watch users can now add a digital ID using their passport inside Apple Wallet. It works at more than 250 TSA checkpoints for domestic flights, though travelers should still bring a physical passport as backup.   • Amazon debuts Auto Buy price-drop shopping Amazon’s new Auto Buy tool lets shoppers set a price threshold and have the AI auto-purchase the item when it drops. It checks prices every 30 minutes, uses your default payment method, and you have 24 hours to cancel.   • Apple’s knitted iPhone Pocket becomes a surprise hit A collaboration with Issey Miyake created a 3D-knit sling pouch for iPhones costing $149 to $229. It sold out quickly despite essentially being an elongated knitted pocket for carrying your phone and small items.   • LA atmospheric river jokes land with listeners Rich opened the show with a series of LA rain one-liners, reflecting how rare storms can disrupt the city. It set the tone for a lighter start before diving into the week’s tech news.   • Projector shopping advice for indoor and outdoor use For better brightness and clarity, Rich recommends using a real projector screen rather than a tarp. XGIMI models, Epson’s Epic Vision Flex, and Yaber V12 offer good performance and typically go on sale during Black Friday.   • Reviewers praise OnePlus 15 battery life Allison Johnson of The Verge says the phone’s massive 7300 mAh silicon-carbon battery can comfortably last two full days, sometimes more. The tradeoffs: camera quality steps back from the previous model and lacks safety features like satellite messaging.   • Why the OnePlus 15 isn’t yet on sale in the US The government shutdown delayed FCC approvals, leaving the phone stuck in limbo even though it’s already shipping internationally. OnePlus says the filings are complete and it’s waiting for certification.   • New Netflix party games on TV Netflix expanded its TV gaming lineup with Pictionary, Tetris, Boggle, and other family-friendly titles. Games use your phone as the controller after scanning a QR code.   • Fingerprint padlock gets viewer attention Rich highlighted the Benji Lock Outdoor Fingerprint Padlock, a weatherproof, offline lock that stores up to 10 fingerprints and charges via USB-C. It’s aimed at people who don’t want to remember locker combinations.   • Troubleshooting landline audio quality over VoIP A caller using AT&T U-verse noticed lower-fidelity audio on a wired phone compared to cordless and mobile devices. Rich explained that VoIP compression limits sound quality and options depend on the handset’s capabilities.   • Messenger sending failures on new iPhone 17 A user reported messages stuck on “sending.” Rich recommended testing Messenger in a desktop browser to isolate whether it’s an account or device issue, and checking for VPNs or storage constraints that could interfere.   • Using a Fire tablet for light document work while traveling For editing documents on a road trip, Rich suggests using web versions of Gmail and Google Drive and installing Microsoft Office or OfficeSuite from the Amazon Appstore. Fire tablets are better for content consumption than productivity.   • Managing IRS scam calls on older iPhones While newer iPhones can screen unknown callers, Rich advised older device owners to use T-Mobile’s Scam Shield app or built-in call filtering under Settings. Third-party blocking apps may also help reduce call volume.   • Tesla software updates likely to support CarPlay on older models Rich notes Tesla has historically added major features to older cars via software updates. If CarPlay becomes official, most recent models should be compatible unless hardware limitations prevent it.   • Caller ID not showing properly on iPhone SE Users can check Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID to ensure outbound calls display correctly. If the option doesn’t appear, T-Mobile support can verify whether caller ID is blocked at the account level.   • Self-repair options for missing Windows DLL files A listener who deleted system files may need Microsoft PC Manager, PC Health Check, or Windows’ built-in Recovery tools to repair missing components. Resetting Windows while keeping personal files is the last resort.   • AI pioneer on the future of machine agency Guest Vasant Dar discussed how AI systems increasingly act as gatekeepers for services, job applications, and support. He argues that society needs guardrails around autonomy, rights, and constraints before AI becomes embedded in physical robots.   • Spectrum launches temporary free gigabit upgrade Spectrum customers using company-supplied routers can activate a free 1 Gbps speed boost through December 1 for holiday streaming and travel. Some users with personal routers may be unable to activate the offer.   • Uber and Lyft expand women driver options Both services added tools allowing female riders to request women drivers where available. The programs aim to increase comfort and safety during rides. Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more—plus interviews with industry experts—all in this weekly show. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here. How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 – Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM – 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR – New York City, Sundays from 8 PM – 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Get the podcast to via RSS, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and anywhere else you listen to audio. Follow Rich on X, Instagram and Facebook. Download the MP3 here (choose episode, then scroll to bottom of page and look for ”Download”) Paid newsletter subscribers get ad-free, HQ audio here. Referral links for services I like. Amazon storefront for products I like. RichOnTech.tv Links may be affiliate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.