The hosts cover a wide range of topics, including Siri commands for Apple TVs, Synology interface, iCloud Plus, Mac backup options, USB-C and Thunderbolt cable compatibilities, Apple Silicon devices, iMac backlight troubleshooting, JBL portable speaker review, and Atlanta airport trivia.
USB 4 and Thunderbolt 4 cables performed similarly in testing for high-speed data transfer and HDMI connectivity.
Replacing a faulty iMac backlight can be expensive, leading to the decision to purchase a more affordable and powerful Mac mini with an M1 chip instead.
Comcast offers a wireless backup connectivity service called Xfinity Storm Ready WiFi for subscribers during cable outages caused by storms.
The JBL Flip 6 portable speaker is a compact and waterproof speaker that delivers high-quality sound for $89 on Amazon.
Deep dives
Cable Experimentation and Thunderbolt 4
During a cable experiment, the assistant tested various USB 4 and Thunderbolt 4 cables. The results showed that there was no functional difference between USB 4 cables and Thunderbolt 4 cables. All the cables worked well for connecting to Thunderbolt devices and supported high data transfer speeds. The assistant also found that USB 4 cables could carry HDMI data. Additionally, the assistant mentioned that the use of charging-only USB cables would not pass data or video. The assistant concluded that for mission-critical purposes, Thunderbolt-certified cables should be used. However, in their testing, all types of USB 4 and Thunderbolt 4 cables worked similarly.
iMac Backlight Failure
The assistant experienced a failure on their iMac, where the backlight on the screen stopped working. They tried troubleshooting the issue but found that it required either replacing the motherboard or the screen, which was costly. Instead, they decided to purchase a new Mac mini with an M1 chip, as it was more affordable and powerful. The assistant shared their decision to buy a refurbished Mac mini instead of the newer M2 model, as the performance difference was minimal. They also mentioned that their local Mac shop had the same base model available for purchase.
Comcast offers wireless backup connectivity for Comcast subscribers during storms
Comcast now offers a wireless backup connectivity service called Xfinity Storm Ready WiFi for subscribers, providing a box that connects to cellular networks during cable outages caused by storms. The box has a four-hour battery life and is IPX7 waterproof. Subscribers can rent the box for $7 a month for 36 months or purchase it for $252.
JBL Flip 6 Portable Speaker
The JBL Flip 6 portable speaker is a compact and waterproof speaker that offers high-quality sound. It has a rounded sound quality with balanced bass and 12 hours of playtime. The Flip 6 is IPX7 waterproof and is available for $89 on Amazon.
Apps for displaying keyboard shortcuts
Two apps, KeyQ and paletro, allow users to display keyboard shortcuts on their Macs. KeyQ is available in Setapp and paletro can be downloaded separately. These apps provide an intuitive way to view and remember keyboard shortcuts for various applications.
Lunar App for controlling brightness on external displays
The Lunar app allows users to control the brightness of their external display using software mode. It is useful when the built-in system settings do not work, particularly for non-Thunderbolt displays. The app offers a lifetime license for $23.
Tango for creating how-to guides
Tango is a web app that enables users to create step-by-step how-to guides through screen recording and audio narration. It automatically captures screen actions and builds a flow of steps. Tango also allows users to blur sensitive information in the video before sharing.
From unlocking the secrets of the command key in Spotlight to the ins and outs of Siri commands for Apple TVs, Pilot Pete and Dave Hamilton leave no stone unturned. They navigate the intricacies of the Synology interface, dive deep into the custom domains world of iCloud Plus, and address security concerns by emphasizing the mantra, “Don’t Get Caught”, when using the same rescue email for custom domain emails and Apple IDs.
As your two favorite geeks pivot towards iPads and Finder’s capabilities on macOS, the conversation illuminates the nuances of SMB vs. AFP, iPhone emergency services, and the treasure trove of iPhone Life’s tip of the day newsletter. They don’t stop there; discussions range from exploring Mac backup options, unraveling Mac storage space mysteries, password and privacy necessities, to a meticulous analysis of USB-C and Thunderbolt cable compatibilities.
However, it’s not all software and cables. Dave and Pete touch on the perils and perks of Apple Silicon devices, while also diving into some engaging hardware conversations, including troubleshooting an iMac backlight issue and debating the pros and cons of computer upgrades. They then veer into the entertainment sector, discussing the sonic brilliance of a portable JBL speaker and sharing a light-hearted tale of a car stereo gone wrong. Wrapping up, they serve a sprinkle of trivia about the Atlanta airport and hint at what’s to come. Press play, don’t get caught, end enjoy learning at least five new things!
00:13:17 Using Synology SMB instead of AFP, especially for Time Machine
00:18:24 Greg-QT-Repeatedly Hit the iPhone’s Home-Side Button to lock your phone (and call emergency services)
00:20:10 TIPS: iPhoneLife’s Daily Tips. Join 500,000 happy subscribers to the only free daily newsletter that reveals new things you can do with your iPhone in just one minute a day. Go to iPhoneLife.com/DailyTips to sign up for free.
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:21:19 Van-What External Drives Should I Use for Backups?
