Instagram map privacy, ChatGPT 5 & the gift card trick you should know (133, Aug 9, 2025)
Rich On Tech
iPhone Backup and Travel Tips
This chapter provides a guide on backing up iPhones using iTunes for those who prefer not to use iCloud, along with essential storage management advice. It also shares insights on travel experiences and luggage choices, highlighting practical considerations over luxury features.
Rich talked about flying kites with his kids and selling stuff on OfferUp.
Rich also mentioned buying discounted gift cards on CardCash.com.
Rich explained the new Instagram map feature that potentially shares your location if you choose to.
Jim writes in about gift cards. He recommends a website called CardBear.com, which aggregates the best discounts available for a wide range of gift cards.
Marilyn from Chula Vista called in about issues with the Watch TCM app.
ChatGPT just rolled out a major update to version 5, bringing faster performance, improved writing and coding skills, and new personality options.
Hulu’s standalone app will be fully merged into Disney+ in 2026.
Frank in Port Chester wants more details on using Gemini to keep notes. Rich suggested checking Google’s recommended prompts for ideas.
Doreen in Irvine asked how to back up text messages and contacts on a Samsung. Rich recommended using SMS Backup & Restore for messages, and for contacts, opening the Contacts app, going to Settings, and choosing Export.
On iPhone, open Contacts, tap Lists, press and hold a list, then tap Export.
Jay from Los Angeles says he uses Wirecutter and Consumer Reports for reviews. Rich suggested also trying Vetted.AI, Google’s AI Mode, and ChatGPT for product comparisons.
Barb wants to know how to back up her phone locally to her Windows computer. Rich says you can still use iTunes—just plug in your phone and click the little phone icon under the menu bar, next to where it says Music.
Mark in Woodland Hills asked about smart luggage or brand recommendations. Rich said he’s currently using Amazon Basics, also likes Away Luggage, and thinks Props Luggage is pretty cool with its built-in feet.
College students can get a free year of Google Gemini Advanced, which includes the Pro models and 2TB of cloud storage.
Roku has launched a new ad-free streaming service called Howdy, priced at $3 a month, with a selection of movies and TV shows.
Adam Doud, freelance technology writer, talked robotic lawn mowers and Samsung’s foldable phones.
Microsoft is shutting down its PDF scanning Lens app. Alternatives include the Microsoft 365 Copilot app and Adobe Scan.
Nick wants to know how to clean up his Gmail storage. Rich recommends using the tools at one.google.com.
AT&T is paying $177 million in a data breach settlement.
Bob from Los Angeles says he's shooting video on his Samsung phone. Which way should he shoot it? Horizontal or vertical?
Rich says you can watch his TV segments on YouTube.
US Mobile CEO Ahmed Khattak on how your phone can get better coverage and save you money with two networks at once.
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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