Team Liquid and the State of Esports

• 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.

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