How machines can become gatekeepers

• 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.

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