This podcast episode covers a range of interesting topics including aviation apps, jazzing up iPhone lock screen widgets, macOS 14.1 tapback feature, migrating data to a new Mac, using Apple Photos' keyword manager, app and frameworks for creating floor plans, GE Sync smart bulb, and sponsor thanks.
Aviation apps like X-Plane and ForeFlight provide virtual skies and real-time flight data for pilots.
Plain Clip is a convenient tool that removes formatting from copied text for a clean and formatted-free paste.
Texts by Automatic is a desktop app that consolidates messaging apps into one central place, streamlining communication and improving focus.
Deep dives
Plain Clip - Remove formatting from copied text
Plain Clip from blue m dot net is a faceless app that removes formatting from the text on your clipboard. It can be invoked by clicking on its icon in the dock or through Alfred or Spotlight. Once invoked, all formatting is stripped out and when you paste, you won't even see anything happen. It works instantly and quits itself, ensuring a clean and formatted-free paste. It's a simple and convenient tool to have when you want to copy and paste plain text without any unwanted formatting.
Texts - Consolidate messaging apps
Texts by Automatic is a desktop app for Mac OS that consolidates messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Slack, and Instagram into one central place. This app helps with focus by eliminating the need to have multiple messaging apps open simultaneously. With Texts, you can streamline your communication and stay organized by having all your messages in one location. Please note that Texts is currently in beta and is available as a subscription service for $12 per month. It does not yet offer Google Chat integration, but it may be added in the future.
2-in-1 Wireless Charger for iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods
This two-in-one wireless charger is a convenient solution for charging your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. While it's labeled as a two-in-one charger, it can charge any device that supports magnetic Qi charging. The charger comes with an electrical adapter and an A to C USB cable. You can lay the charger flat or prop it up as a pyramid for easy access. It's an efficient and practical accessory for those who want to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
GE Sync Bulbs with Dynamic Effects
GE Sync bulbs are smart bulbs that offer dynamic effects, allowing you to display up to four colors at once on the same bulb. They can sync to your music and create a light show. The A19 bulb is priced at $20 and can be controlled through the Sync app and connected to your Wi-Fi network.
NetSpot Version 3 for Wi-Fi Network Mapping
NetSpot version 3 is a Wi-Fi network mapping software that offers recommendations and allows you to visualize and analyze Wi-Fi networks. It enables you to upload a map of your house or office, walk around with your MacBook Pro to record Wi-Fi information at different locations, and provides useful recommendations for improving your network coverage and performance. NetSpot offers a free trial in the Mac App Store and a desktop app for $49 with a perpetual upgrade option for $19.
This week on Mac Geek Gab, Pilot Pete and Dave Hamilton dive headlong into aviation apps, tossing Quick Tips like confetti along the way. Get the lowdown on everything from X-Plane’s virtual skies to Sentry ADS-B’s real-time flight data, and manage your electronic cockpit with apps like ForeFlight and FliteDeck Pro.
Discover how to jazz up your iPhone lock screen widgets, effortlessly identify shuffled Lockscreen photos, and streamline your contacts with a personalized “My Card”. macOS 14.1 is in the spotlight with its new tapback feature that keeps your conversations engaging.
In the quest for Mac wisdom, the duo tackles the big questions: to migrate or nuke-and-pave when moving to a new Mac, and which Mac to get when upgrading from Intel. Safari’s potential memory leak in macOS 14.1 sparks debate, while tips on tagging photos in macOS and turning emails into reminders keep your digital life on point.
Remember, “Don’t Get Caught” in tech snafus—instead, arm yourself with knowledge on migration safety with Synology Drive and other syncing solutions. Plus, the episode is peppered with Cool Stuff Found, from the utility magic of Plain Clip and Texts consolidating messaging apps to the cutting-edge RoomPlan API for spatial planning, ensuring you’re always one step ahead of the tech curve.
Press play and enjoy learning at least five new things with your two favorite geeks!
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00:22:26 PODCAST: This Week In Tech: Every week, This Week in Tech gives you a no-holds-barred, deep dive into how big tech influences our culture and our lives.
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:23:20 Bill-To Migrate Or Nuke, That Is The Question