Managing Tech and Contacts

This chapter explores Apple's trade-in and recycling program for old devices, including how consumers can benefit from cash offers. It also addresses the challenges of consolidating digital contacts, offering expert advice and tools for effective management on various platforms, along with insights into accessing Google's Gemini AI for students.

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Episode notes

Rich discusses major antitrust cases against Meta and Google—and what they could mean for the future of Big Tech.

Richard in Bell, California asks why his PayPal transaction won’t go through on a website.

Dennis in San Dimas is looking for a NAS drive that works with both Windows PCs and Macs. Rich mentioned brands like Synology or QNAP.

Nintendo Switch pre-orders begin April 24—prices for the base console and bundle stay the same.

Richard in Arcadia wants to digitize old photos. Rich suggests Epson FastFoto or Perfection scanners, or apps like PhotoMyne, and Google PhotoScan. For a professional service check out ScanMyPhotos.com.

HP is settling a lawsuit over misleading discounts—if you bought something on their website, you could get between $10 and $100.

Rich mentioned Bald Bryan’s Baldywood movie streaming newsletter as a great way to find what to watch next.

Albert in Chatsworth says pop-up ads are taking over his Android phone. Rich recommends clearing your browser data, uninstalling any unfamiliar apps, and disabling push notifications from websites.

Soumit wants to merge his contacts and remove duplicates. Rich suggests ContactsPlus.com, checking the built-in duplicates tool on iOS or Android, or using Google Contacts for a free, easy way to clean everything up.

American Airlines will offer free in-flight Wi-Fi starting in 2026 for AAdvantage members.

Google is giving students free access to Gemini Advanced and 2TB of storage through June 2026.

Jeff in Clearwater, Florida, is curious about using real-time translation earbuds to listen to talk radio. Rich suggests checking out Timekettle for options.

Lauren Braun, Apple’s Environmental Product Manager, will talk trade-in and recycling at Apple Stores – how you can turn in old devices the right way and what really happens to them.

Johnny Jet says Hawaii is testing a digital version of its mandatory landing form, making it easier for travelers to complete before arrival.

George in Laguna Hills is using his T-Mobile phone as a home router but says the experience isn’t great.

Microsoft reports a surge in AI-powered scams, blocking $4 billion in fraud attempts over the past year.

A new phishing scam is impersonating Google, using legitimate-looking emails to steal user credentials.

The FBI is warning about a new scam where fraudsters impersonate the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to target previous scam victims.

Craig in Los Angeles is curious about how satellite messaging works on his iPhone.

Robbert is looking for a free, HIPAA-compliant fax app. Rich suggests Fax.Plus, iFax, HP Smart Mobile Fax, and Dropbox Fax—with the right settings and agreements in place.

Trish in Los Angeles runs a mobile home park and needs to send monthly text updates to residents. Rich suggests checking out SimpleTexting and Textedly.

Menka Sanghvi, author of Your Best Digital Life: Use Your Mind to Tame Your Tech, will talk technology and how to take control of your screen time.

AT&T is changing its AutoPay discount structure starting April 24, 2025. To receive the full $10 monthly discount, customers must use a bank account (ACH) for payments.

Campspot has released its list of the top trending national parks for 2025, based on traveler interest and booking data. Leading the list is Yosemite National Park, celebrated for its iconic granite cliffs and waterfalls

Rich On Tech Episode 117 - April 19, 2025

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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