Gadget of the week: Santa's Magic Telephone

• AI used to create fake receipts: Expense-report fraud is rising as employees use AI to generate realistic receipts. Companies report millions in fake submissions.

• Glasses that block facial recognition: Zenni Optical’s new ID Guard coating reflects infrared light, preventing facial recognition systems from identifying wearers. It also disables phone Face ID and Windows Hello while worn.

• NVIDIA hits $5 trillion valuation: The AI chipmaker briefly became the world’s most valuable company, surpassing Apple and Microsoft. Analysts warn valuations may be inflated by investor speculation around AI demand.

• Microsoft cloud outage causes global issues: A configuration error in Microsoft’s Azure cloud service caused an 8-hour outage affecting airlines, banks, and governments. Rich explains why reliance on a few cloud providers remains a risk.

• Humanoid robot for home chores: 1X's Neo robot can load dishwashers, fold laundry, and wipe counters—but only with a remote human operator wearing a VR headset. Deliveries are expected in 2026 for $20K or $500/month.

• Caller question – best portable phone chargers: Belkin’s 20,000 mAh power bank with USB-C charging was recommended as a reliable, travel-friendly option. 

• Gadget of the week – Santa’s Magic Telephone: This $100 Wi-Fi-connected rotary phone from Mr. Christmas lets kids talk to an AI Santa that remembers their name and wish list. Rich calls it “surprisingly good and fast.”

• iPhone software update confusion: A caller saw iOS 26 listed alongside iOS 18.7.1; Rich clarified Apple now separates full updates from security-only versions, letting users choose stability or new features.

• Outlook email frustration: A listener struggled sorting by subject in the new Outlook. Rich confirmed the option is missing compared with Classic Outlook and suggested checking IT restrictions or reverting temporarily.

• Samsung’s tri-fold phone prototype: Unveiled in South Korea, the device folds twice to expand into a 10-inch screen. Expected to cost over $2,000 and compete with future foldables from Apple.

• YouTube TV vs Disney dispute: Disney channels including ESPN, FX, and ABC are dark as the companies negotiate fees. Rich suggests trying short free trials from competing services or DirecTV Stream’s 5-day pass.

• Fixing Google Contacts on Chrome: A caller’s contacts wouldn’t open after search. Rich advised clearing Chrome cache and cookies, updating the browser, disabling extensions, or testing in Edge.

• Samsung notification bubbles fix: For Galaxy users annoyed by floating text bubbles, go to Settings → Notifications → Advanced → Floating Notifications and turn bubbles off.

• Guest interview – Alexandra Samuel, “Me + Viv” podcast: The tech journalist created her own AI coach using ChatGPT. She discussed how personalized AIs can feel human, enhance creativity, and even risk emotional dependence.

• AI & mental health: Rich and Samuel noted OpenAI data showing millions of users struggling emotionally with AI chats. They discussed balancing AI’s benefits with human connection.

• Moving data to a new PC: Rich advised transferring only essential files to keep new systems clean—using OneDrive, an external drive, or Laplink PC Mover for full migrations.

• OpenTable adds loyalty perks: The new Regulars program offers Amazon gift cards for points, early reservation alerts for Gold members, and free Uber One for six months.

• Updating iPads to iPadOS 26: Rich says the new version adds windowed multitasking similar to a Mac or PC, runs well on M-series iPads, and is safe to install.

• Google Gemini coming to smart speakers: Early access is rolling out to U.S. users via the Home app. Gemini will replace Google Assistant with smarter, conversational responses.

• DirecTV on-demand fast-forward limits: Some Hallmark movies won’t skip ads because they’re streamed on-demand, not recorded via DVR. Only recorded versions allow skipping.

• Syracuse University launches creator-economy program: Starting 2026, students can learn podcasting, streaming, and digital strategy at the new Center for the Creator Economy—a first-of-its-kind partnership.

• Samsung Internet browser now on PC: The beta version for Windows 10/11 syncs bookmarks, passwords, and Galaxy AI features with phones.

• Wemo smart-switch phase-out: Belkin is ending cloud and Alexa support for older Wemo devices in 2026. Thread-based models will continue to work with Apple HomeKit.

• iPhone storage tips for teens: Rich advised using free cloud options like Dropbox or ProtonDrive to offload photos instead of paying for more iCloud storage.

• Finding reliable cell service: T-Mobile users near Canada reported dropped calls; Rich explained how to pick the best low-cost carrier (MVNO) based on which major network—Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile—works best locally.

• Feedbag listener highlights: Tips included filming rental cars in 4K for insurance protection, warnings about musician payment scams, and reminders to clean out old storage units instead of paying endless monthly fees.

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