MacVoices

This discussion centers on Affinity going free under Canva, a move seen as a direct challenge to Adobe's subscription model. Chuck Joiner, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, and Jeff Gamet also cover Pantone's new AI tool for generating color palettes, Tinder's controversial attempt to access users' camera rolls for better matching, and Microsoft's decision to use influencers to promote its Copilot AI product. The panel debates the ethics and business models behind these tech industry developments. This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by our Patreon supporters. Get access to the MacVoices Slack and MacVoices After Dark by joining in at Patreon.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Intro and Patreon support [0:28] Affinity goes permanently free [1:05] How Affinity positions itself against Adobe [2:20] Canva's strategy and corporate subscription gateway [3:56] Reaction to the announcement video [5:23] Historical Adobe comparisons [7:05] Canva's AI model sources [7:51] Pantone launches AI-based color generator [9:02] Color theory, branding uses, and Affinity plug-ins [11:53] Pantone's proprietary data and training [14:08] Chat room updates and humor [14:55] Tinder seeks photo-library access [15:28] Ethical, personal, and privacy implications [19:02] Microsoft uses influencers to promote Copilot [21:06] Influence vs. endorsement discussion [27:03] What an influencer conference is like [30:49] Closing discussion and wrap-up [31:14] Panelist location and contact info Links: How is Affinity Now Free? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9YR9KeCJDY Tinder to use AI to get to know users, tap into their Camera Roll photos https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/05/tinder-to-use-ai-to-get-to-know-users-tap-into-their-camera-roll-photos/ Pantone just made an AI tool that's actually useful https://www.fastcompany.com/91435187/pantone-color-generator-ai-tool Microsoft Stock Rises as Influencers Help Promote Copilot AI https://www.gurufocus.com/news/3199084/microsoft-stock-rises-as-influencers-help-promote-copilot-ai Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Join technology blogger Jeff Gamet and aviator Pilot Pete Harmon as they dive into a treasure trove of quirky and practical holiday gift ideas! Discover creative bookshelf dioramas called book nooks that enhance any space. Pilot Pete shares insights on USB-C rechargeable hand warmers and the safety behind keeping lithium batteries in the cabin. Jeff also highlights unique art supplies and a game-changing compact charger for your devices. This lively discussion unveils quirky finds that could spark joy in anyone's gift-giving this season!

Join technology blogger Jeff Gamet and professional aviator Pilot Pete Harmon as they dive into the must-have gifts for the holiday season. Jeff highlights the Audioengine HXL portable DAC for superior audio quality, while Pilot Pete raves about the Kindle Oasis for its waterproof, e-ink reading experience. They also explore practical picks like the Alex Tech cord wrap organizer and the versatile Nespresso Aeroccino milk frother. Plus, Jeff's recommendation of the Supergirl graphic novel adds a fun twist to the guide!

The reports that Apple may pay nearly $1 billion to license Google's Gemini AI for Siri are examined, debating privacy, accuracy, and long-term AI strategy. Chuck Joiner, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Jeff Gamet, and Mark Fuccio then rave about the new Apple TV sci-fi series Pluribus and other standout shows, before turning to disturbing revelations that a significant share of Meta's ad revenue appears tied to scam advertising and questionable enforcement practices. http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV25190.mp3 This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing. Show Notes: [0:28] Reported $1B Apple–Google Gemini deal for Siri [0:53] Why Apple might license AI instead of building everything in-house [2:10] Comparing Gemini, Claude, and ChatGPT performance [2:46] Longstanding Apple–Google relationship and spreading AI bets [4:09] Privacy questions and limits of deep integration on iPhone [5:36] Multiple-model future and Apple running Gemini on its own servers [6:22] Accuracy concerns and Gemini's track record [7:42] Privacy as a differentiator and stopgap strategy analogy to Maps [8:10] Using Gemini to learn while Apple builds its own model [10:36] Energy efficiency, Apple silicon, and AI infrastructure [11:59] Training vs. inference costs and NVIDIA dependence [14:12] Viewing AI models as commodities and Apple's end-to-end experience [16:09] Could "to Gemini" become the next "to Google"? [18:06] Shifting to Pluribus on Apple TV and its 100% rating [19:39] First reactions to Pluribus and spoiler-free praise [21:17] Binge-watching, the official companion podcast, and water-cooler TV [22:25] Broader strength of Apple TV's original series [23:35] Comparing Apple TV's consistency to HBO's classic era [25:17] More standout titles: documentaries and prestige series [28:15] Coverage of shows vs. recognition of Apple TV as a network [29:08] Turning to Meta and revelations about scam-driven ad revenue [30:12] Meta's incentives to keep "borderline" scam ads running [31:35] Ethical outrage, user harm, and lack of protection [32:05] Meta's history of questionable experiments and weak moral compass [33:22] Legal angles, potential class actions, and enforcement gaps [37:17] "Violating the spirit, not the letter" of policy at scale [38:04] Higher ad rates for scammers and disturbing normalization [38:55] Closing remarks and wrap-up Chapters: Links: Apple will pay almost $1 billion a year for a custom Gemini model to power Siri https://appleworld.today/2025/11/apple-will-pay-almost-1-billion-for-a-custom-gemini-model-to-power-siri/ Why 'Pluribus' Has a Perfect Score on Rotten Tomatoes https://www.today.com/popculture/tv/pluribus-rotten-tomatoes-perfect-score-100-apple-tv-critics-watch-rcna243055 Bombshell report exposes how Meta relied on scam ad profits to fund AI https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/11/bombshell-report-exposes-how-meta-relied-on-scam-ad-profits-to-fund-ai/ Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

The MacVoices Live! panel digs into Apple's new iPhone Pocket accessory, debating its price, purpose, and whether it's aimed at non-US markets. Chuck Joiner, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Jeff Gamet, and Mark Fuccio also examine reported shortages of HomePod mini units at major retailers, asking if it signals a refresh, new colors, or just supply quirks before the holidays, and speculate on what other Apple products might quietly get updated. MacVoices is supported by the 2025 MacVoices Holiday Gift Guides. Tech and more you want to give and get. Find out what the panels recommend at MacVoices.com/HolidayGiftGuide. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Show intro and Holiday Gift Guide plug [0:30] Panel introductions and birthday banter [2:40] Bird talk and woodpecker side discussion [5:03] Mark returns from travel and schedule notes [6:34] Eagle livestream story and nature chat [8:02] Apple announces the iPhone Pocket accessory [8:52] First reactions: design, purpose, and regional markets [10:11] Cross-body carrying styles and safety vs convenience [11:17] Pricing and designer branding discussion [14:02] Colors, fashion, and potential knockoffs [16:18] Looking at the designer's wider product line [17:56] Is this real or an April Fool's-style product? [18:46] Final thoughts on who the iPhone Pocket is really for [19:23] HomePod mini stock shortages at retailers [19:56] Rumors of a refreshed HomePod mini [21:25] Could tariffs or parts explain supply issues? [22:57] Colors vs new features vs chip updates [24:35] Timing concerns for holiday shopping [26:17] Calls for new colors on AirPods cases [27:20] Speculation on Apple TV and future AI-driven features [27:52] Store checks on remaining HomePod mini colors [28:55] Closing credits and support information Links: Apple launches iPhone Pocket: a limited edition designer strap accessory https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/11/apple-launches-iphone-pocket-limited-edition-designer-strap-accessory ISSEY MIYAKE website https://us.isseymiyake.com/ HomePod Mini Out of Stock in Multiple Retailers As Refresh Rumors Persist https://www.mactrast.com/2025/11/homepod-mini-out-of-stock-in-multiple-retailers-as-refresh-rumors-continue/ Apple will pay almost $1 billion a year for a custom Gemini model to power Siri https://appleworld.today/2025/11/apple-will-pay-almost-1-billion-for-a-custom-gemini-model-to-power-siri/ Guests: Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud. Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Marty Jencius, a tech commentator running podtalk.net, shares top picks for travel gear, including a versatile USB-C hub. Patrice Brend'amour, a tech writer from the British Tech Network, highlights an exciting aviation memoir perfect for adventure lovers. Meanwhile, legal tech guru Michael D.J. Eisenberg offers insights on the best AirPods for noise cancellation during flights and advocates gifting a Mac mini as a great entry-point for new users. The trio also dives into cool LEGO collectibles and essential tech accessories.

Marty Jencius, a tech commentator, shares his favorite practical accessories like a MagSafe wallet and a portable EKG monitor. Michael D.J. Eisenberg, a Mac community contributor, offers travel essentials including a surge protector and a clever AirTag-ready money clip. Patrice Brend'amour, a tech journalist from Europe, recommends innovative AI development tools and travel routers. Together, they curate a tech-savvy gift guide that caters to both Apple users and frequent travelers.

The MacVoices Live! panel debates Coca-Cola's new AI-generated holiday ads, whether the approach undermines emotion-driven seasonal marketing, and how brands use AI to shorten production timelines. David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Jeff Gamet, Chuck Joiner, Norbert Frassa, and Kelly Guimont also explore the growing influence of prediction markets, concerns about manipulation, and what these trends say about shifting norms in tech, advertising, and culture. MacVoices is supported by SurfShark. Go to https://surfshark.com/macvoices or use code "macvoices" at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Coca-Cola's new AI holiday ads introduced [0:25] Reactions to AI-generated seasonal marketing [1:50] Debate over tradition, emotion, and AI in holiday campaigns [3:29] Concerns about AI accuracy and cultural cues [4:23] Coke–Pepsi reactions and artist pushback [5:14] Behind-the-scenes questions and production motives [7:41] Theory: AI used primarily to generate conversation [8:18] Report: AI ad completed in one month, not a year [9:59] Early holiday marketing and seasonal fatigue [13:12] Introduction to prediction markets [13:38] Coinbase CEO manipulates prediction outcomes [15:14] "Worst timeline" vs. "stupidest timeline" debate [15:32] Comparing prediction betting to tech press bingo [17:07] Prop bets, Super Bowl example, and manipulation risks [18:26] Serious concerns about professionalism and market integrity [20:11] Crypto culture and perception of financial norms [21:42] Questioning whether norms even exist anymore [23:19] Panelists share where to find their work [28:56] Closing remarks and community information Links: Coca-Cola Is Trying Another AI Holiday Ad. Executives Say This Time Is Different https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/coke-new-ai-holiday-ad-video-1236416491/ Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong flips prediction markets with last-minute earnings call word salad https://www.fastcompany.com/91433012/coinbase-ceo-brian-armstrong-flips-prediction-markets-with-last-minute-earnings-call-word-salad Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud. Norbert Frassa is a technology "man about town". Follow him on Twitter and see what he's up to. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud. Kelly Guimont is a podcaster and friend of the Rebel Alliance. You can also hear her on The Aftershow with Mike Rose, and she still has more to say which she saves for Twitter and Mastodon. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Apple's EU lobbying spend sparks panel debate beforeDavid Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Jeff Gamet, Chuck Joiner, Norbert Frassa, and Kelly Guimont turn to a bizarre case of stolen trade secrets being publicly presented. The discussion then shifts to Canva making the Affinity suite free, what that means for Adobe's dominance, long-term subscription concerns, and how AI-powered creative tools are reshaping design workflows. MacVoices is supported by SurfShark. Go to https://surfshark.com/macvoices or use code "macvoices" at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Today's MacVoices is supported by MacPaw and their essential CleanMyMac.. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at http://CLNMY.COM/MACVOICES. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Apple's EU lobbying spend and industry context [1:30] Cost analysis and effectiveness of Apple's lobbying [3:20] Oppo engineer presents stolen trade secrets [5:00] Motivations, pride, and "dumb criminal" behavior [6:20] Affinity suite goes free under Canva [7:50] Concerns about long-term business model and sustainability [9:20] New unified Affinity app impressions and workflow changes [11:20] Subscription questions and Adobe comparisons [12:20] Pixelmator, Apple, and alternative creative tools [14:00] Canva's value and integration for creators [19:00] Canva vs. Adobe in enterprise environments [21:40] AI-enhanced tools and industry competition [23:55] Rising Creative Cloud pricing and user adoption trends [26:10] BYOD trends and iPad use in enterprise [28:01] Canva's AI "fix-it" button and one-click editing [29:30] Democratization of design tools [31:36] Training new users with Affinity and Canva [33:21] Closing remarks and community links Links: Apple spent $8M lobbying the EU last year and had 76 meetings https://9to5mac.com/2025/10/29/apple-spent-8m-lobbying-the-eu-last-year-and-had-76-meetings/ Apple says the Oppo engineer who stole trade secrets gave a presentation to 'hundreds' about stolen info https://appleworld.today/2025/10/apple-says-the-oppo-engineer-who-stole-trade-secrets-gave-a-presentation-to-hundreds-about-stolen-info/ What has Canva done to the Affinity apps? https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/10/30/affinitys-entire-suite-goes-completely-free-on-mac-with-new-all-in-one-app Canva introduces an AI fix-it button https://www.fastcompany.com/91429908/canva-introduces-an-ai-fix-it-button Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud. Norbert Frassa is a technology "man about town". Follow him on Twitter and see what he's up to. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud. Kelly Guimont is a podcaster and friend of the Rebel Alliance. You can also hear her on The Aftershow with Mike Rose, and she still has more to say which she saves for Twitter and Mastodon. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession 'firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

Charlotte and Chuck rave about AirPods Pro 3 for travel and TV watching, then dig into the latest season of The Morning Show, Jennifer Garner's returning thriller, and breakout drama Pluribus that briefly knocked Apple's services offline. They debate whether Apple TV should add an ad-supported tier, plug Charlotte's Streaming Wars book, and share recent picks like Slow Horses and Invasion. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] AirPods Pro 3 impressions and travel use [3:40] Noise cancellation, transparency, and adaptive audio [7:01] The Morning Show season update and character talk [9:19] Jennifer Aniston performance debate [10:41] Jennifer Garner's The Last Thing He Told Me return [13:16] Introducing Pluribus and early buzz [15:21] Apple TV server outage and reliability talk [21:48] Charlotte's Streaming Wars book and always-on culture [22:27] Should Apple TV add an ad-supported tier? [27:57] Pricing, value, and subscription fatigue [31:01] Recommendations: Slow Horses and Invasion [32:13] Where to find Chuck and Charlotte online Links: Streaming Wars: How Getting Everything We Wanted Changed Entertainment Forever by Charlotte Henry https://amzn.to/43wHzJV Guests: Charlotte Henry is a media junkie, covering how Apple is not just a revolutionary tech firm, but a revolutionary media firm. She is based in London, writes and broadcasts for various outlets, and is the author of Not Buying It, an examination of fake news. You can find her on her The Addition blog, her podcast, in her The Addition newsletter on substack, and on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss