Handy Websites & Pros and Cons of Smartphone Insurance
Apr 7, 2024
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Tech expert Rich DeMuro discusses useful websites and apps for productivity, online security tips, smartphone insurance advice, challenges of transitioning to a 'dumb phone,' and potential crackdowns on streaming service account sharing.
Protect online privacy with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
Consider self-insuring for smartphone coverage costs by saving monthly premiums.
Streaming services are cracking down on account sharing, pushing for individual subscriptions.
Transitioning to a 'dumb phone' can enhance personal relationships and work productivity.
Mesh Wi-Fi systems can improve signal strength and consistency in larger homes.
Deep dives
Struggle with Wi-Fi Signal in a Large Home
Itanya Jordan shared her concern about the interrupted Wi-Fi signal in her 3,200 square foot home located near mountains. Upgrading to a mesh system with multiple access points might help address the issue by ensuring a stronger and more consistent signal throughout the house. Placing access points strategically is essential, and exploring brands like Orbi or Eero could be beneficial in optimizing the Wi-Fi coverage in larger homes.
Warning about Gift Card Scams
A cautionary note was shared regarding gift card scams where scammers copy down gift card numbers at stores and monitor them for any added funds. It was advised to inspect gift card balances immediately after receiving them since scammers can drain the funds once they are activated. Timely verification and reporting any discrepancies may increase the chances of recovering lost funds.
Using old silica gel packets for drying out devices
Christie suggests saving silica gel packets in a sealed mason jar to dry out wet devices. She found this effective in drying out earbuds and devices that have been exposed to water.
Concerns about changing credit card number for subscriptions
Gary mentions the experience of changing the credit card number with Bank of America for subscriptions, where charges were still routed to the new number. Bank's unpublished policy caused inconvenience, leading to a need to change banks.
Challenges of transitioning away from a smartphone
Jose highlights the challenges of transitioning from a smartphone to a minimalist life, including navigating daily tasks like QR codes and GPS without a smartphone. Relearning to operate in the 21st century with 20th century principles is a major aspect of the transition.
Feedback on purchasing a TV with color issues
Dan shares the experience of purchasing a high-sense U8K TV with color issues on live TV channels. Transitioning to a Sony X90L improved the situation, but issues linger with cable TV broadcasts. Dan notes that OLED TVs have the best color accuracy based on his experience.
Feedback on Samsung AI features and retention
Tony points out Samsung's unpublished policy regarding the AI features on their S24 devices, indicating that the AI features may only be free until the end of 2025. Tony cautions potential buyers regarding this consideration.
Providing support and insights on challenging student behavior related to smartphones and social media
Annette, a high school teacher, expresses concerns about student behavior influenced by smartphone usage and social media, leading to challenges in managing bullying, addiction, and social pressures. Annette cites the ubiquitous influence of social media on students' lives.
Considerations on used EVs and battery longevity
Stephen, a 73-year-old listener, seeks expert insights on the pros and cons of buying a used EV, particularly concerning the battery life and potential costs associated with battery replacement. Stephen emphasizes a preference for hybrid vehicles due to cost constraints and concerns about EV battery longevity.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Rich DeMuro shares a variety of useful websites, apps, and tech tips to make life easier and more secure. He discusses the importance of online privacy and security, offers advice on smartphone insurance, and explores the challenges and benefits of transitioning to a "dumb phone." The show also features an interview with a digital minimalist who shares insights on reducing screen time and finding balance in a technology-driven world. Topics Discussed:- Rich shares several handy websites and apps, such as a Google image generator, a disposable email service, and tools for parsing information from images or text to create calendar events.- Online privacy and security are crucial, and everyone should take steps to protect themselves, including using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, keeping software up-to-date, and being cautious of phishing attempts.- When considering smartphone insurance, it's important to weigh the costs and benefits carefully and consider self-insuring by setting aside the monthly premium in a savings account.- Streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu are starting to crack down on account sharing, and users can expect new features to allow account sharers to start their own subscriptions or add individuals for an additional fee.- Transitioning to a "dumb phone" can be challenging but rewarding, leading to improved personal relationships, work productivity, and a more balanced lifestyle. Resources and Links Mentioned:- Google Image Generator: google.com/search/images- 10 Minute Mail: 10minutemail.com- Agenda Hero Magic: agendahero.com/magic- The Points Guy Awards vs. Cash Calculator: thepointsguy.com/calculator- BG Eraser: bgeraser.com- Clean Text: cleantext.org- Who Brings: whobrings.com- Just Delete Me: justdeleteme.xyz- Redact.Photo: redact.photoSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
