I got an look at a early demo model of Snap’s upcoming augmented reality glasses and spoke with CEO Evan Spiegel about the vision behind them.

These (eventually) lightweight Specs aim to bring a shared, real-world computing experience to your eyes, blending fun, AI, and more.

• Travel site hack raises scam risk: A major booking platform breach means you should be extra skeptical of travel emails and messages. Always verify reservations directly through official apps or websites instead of clicking links.

• Encrypted messages aren’t always safe: Authorities were able to recover Signal messages from an iPhone, showing that “encrypt…

Read more

This week I was in downtown LA, and the perspective from up there is pretty incredible. Looking out from those skyscrapers, you really get a sense of just how big and sprawling the world around us is.

There’s a lot to get to this week, so let’s dive in.

A smarter way to test your internet

I love when I have a guest on my radio show and immediately pick up something useful. This week, it was about internet speed tests.

If you’ve ever checked your connection, chances are you’ve used Speedtest.net. The founder of that site is now behind a free new tool called Orb, and it takes things a step further.

Instead of just measuring speed, Orb looks at how your internet actually performs in real life, things like responsiveness, reliability, and lag over time.

And here’s the big difference: it runs continuously in the background.

So instead of a one-time test, you get a live score that updates throughout the day. That means if your Zoom call starts glitching or your video buffers, you can actually see what’s going on in the moment.

It also keeps a history, so you can spot patterns, like your connection slowing down every afternoon, or figure out if the problem is your network or someone else’s.

My favorite feature is the live score on your desktop. It’s always visible, so you can quickly check how your connection is holding up. If it’s green, you’re good. If not, you’ve got something to investigate.

You can even install it on a family member’s computer and get alerts if their internet starts acting up.

Clean up Chrome and make it easier to read

Speaking of toolbars, did you know you can customize the toolbar in the desktop version of Chrome?

Google has added a ton of features to Chrome lately, including a handy new and improved Reading Mode that turns cluttered web pages into a clean, easy-to-read layout. This used to require an extension, but now it’s built right in. It can even read web pages out loud.

If your toolbar feels crowded, you can clean it up in seconds. Just right-click the row of icons in the upper-right corner and choose “Customize toolbar.”

From there, you can turn features on or off, including navigation buttons, bookmarks, reading list, history, downloads, tab search, and even tools like print and QR code creation.

My favorites are Reading Mode, tab search, and Google Lens. You can also add a quick button to copy the current link, and I especially like “Send to your devices.” Tap it and you’ll get a notification on your phone with the page you’re viewing (as long as Chrome is installed on your mobile device).

Stop losing links you meant to save

I’m a big fan of Raindrop.io. It’s where I save everything I come across online. Articles, tools, random finds. I tag everything so I can actually find it later.

But a similar new tool caught my attention. It’s called send/links, and the idea is simple. Save anything instantly, without thinking about it.

On your computer, you hit a keyboard shortcut or the extension and the link is saved, titled, and organized automatically.

On your phone, you can send a link through Telegram and it shows up in your account. It’s basically like texting yourself a reminder, but way more organized.

Once your links are in, it does the rest. It sorts them, shows you what you haven’t read yet, flags broken links, and makes everything easy to search.

If you’re someone who emails or texts yourself links just to keep track of them, this is worth a look.

Only catch: it’s brand new and built by a solo developer. It’s free right now, but we’ll see where it goes. Still, the idea of saving links this easily is pretty compelling.

Sponsored: Surfshark’s CleanWeb to the rescue

Ever try to read something online and get hit with a wall of ads, pop-ups, and trackers? It’s not just annoying, it can slow things down and compromise your privacy.

Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature helps fix that. It blocks ads, trackers, and cookie pop-ups before they load, so pages are cleaner and faster right from the start.

It’s part of Surfshark’s Starter plan, which also includes a VPN to secure your connection and an Alternative ID feature that lets you create a separate email and identity for signing up on websites.

The best part? You can use it across all your devices, so whether you’re on your phone, laptop, or tablet, you get the same cleaner browsing experience.

Plans start at $1.88 a month when you pay for 24 months, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to try it out.

Check it out here!

Google has two new apps for your computer

Google is busy this week, rolling out new apps for both Mac and Windows.

Let’s start with Mac. There’s now a native Gemini app, something ChatGPT and Claude users have had for a while. The idea is simple: AI is always within reach while you work.

You can keep it on the side of your screen, call it up instantly, and ask questions about whatever you’re doing. The big feature is screen awareness. If you allow it, Gemini can see what’s on your screen and help in real time, whether you’re working on a document, a presentation, or a photo.

What stands out to me is how well it taps into your existing Google data. Photos, files, emails, all of it. That makes it surprisingly good at finding things, even stuff you forgot existed.

For example, I asked if I could throw my suit in the dryer to freshen it up. It dug up the purchase receipt from my email, identified the item, and pulled the care instructions. Answer: don’t do it.

On Windows, Google is taking a different approach. It’s essentially a desktop version of Google Search, with AI built in.

You can search the web, ask questions about your screen, and even find things on your own computer, including files, apps, and Google Drive content. Think of it as a smarter, Google-powered version of the built-in Windows search bar.

Amazon’s slimmest Fire TV Stick yet

Amazon has a new Fire TV Stick, and this one is all about simplicity. It’s called the Fire TV Stick HD. It’s not their top-of-the-line model, but it is their slimmest and easiest to use.

The big difference is how it’s powered. You can plug it directly into your TV’s USB port, so there’s no need for a separate power adapter. Just HDMI for video and USB for power. That means fewer cables and a much cleaner setup behind your TV. It’s also great for travel. Plug it into a hotel or Airbnb TV and you’re up and running in seconds.

It runs Amazon’s updated Fire TV software, which I’ve been testing on the 4K version. The redesign looks nice, but it still feels cluttered. There’s a lot happening on the home screen, and oddly, your streaming app icons are super small compared to everything else they’re promoting. You can fit more of them now, though.

Performance is also a mixed bag. The main apps are fine, but some of the smaller streaming apps like Paramount+ and Peacock can be buggy. That’s been a recurring issue with Fire TV devices, which tend to be a bit underpowered.

That said, it’s still one of the easiest and most affordable ways to add smart features to any TV.

One feature I do like is Ambient Mode. It turns your TV into a digital art display when you’re not watching anything. It’s not quite the same as a Samsung Frame TV, but it’s a nice touch with plenty of free artwork to choose from.

The Fire TV Stick HD is $35 (be careful, don’t order the previous model for $20) and ships at end of April.

TV Segments

This week I tested the Nex Playground, a video game console that feels a lot like the Nintendo Wii or Xbox Kinect, but with no controllers. It’s a small box that sits under your TV with a built-in camera, and it tracks your body movements so you control the games just by moving around.

The games are simple, active, and easy to pick up for both kids and adults. My kids had an absolute blast playing titles like Fruit Ninja and bowling.

The downside is the price. It’s now $300 after a recent $50 increase. You get five games included, but if you want the full library, it’s another $90. It’s a fun system, but that price is going to be a hurdle for a lot of families, so I’d keep an eye out for a sale.

I also covered agentic AI this week. Most people are using AI to answer questions, but the next step is tools that act more like a personal assistant.

These can live on your computer, respond anytime, and actually take action. They can draft documents, send emails, text messages, and handle tasks for you.

It’s still early, but companies are moving quickly in this direction. The big name right now is OpenClaw, and you’ll start seeing more of these features across the major AI platforms soon. It’s definitely something to keep on your radar.

Tech tidbits

Booking.com was hacked, so watch for phishing emails tied to reservations asking for payment or personal info.

Mint Mobile is now offering home internet with a bundle: $540 a year for unlimited phone + wireless home internet, about $45 a month. Solid deal if T-Mobile is strong where you live.

YouTube Premium subscribers who also pay $10+ a month for Google One can get a year of Premium at 50% off. You’ll need to cancel and resubscribe through Google One.

Netgear is the first router brand cleared under new FCC cybersecurity rules, with select Nighthawk and Orbi models approved for sale.

Don’t forget this hidden Android update

If you have an Android phone, there’s another place to check for updates.

Google Play system updates are separate from regular OS updates and quietly patch security issues and add features behind the scenes.

You may need to restart your phone to install them.

Q&A - AppleCare Anxiety

Amy in Los Angeles writes…
I have an iPhone 16 that’s about to hit the one-year mark, and I’m trying to decide if it’s worth buying another year of AppleCare. I’m pretty gentle with my phone and use an OtterBox case, but I keep thinking the second it expires, something bad will happen. I usually don’t buy extended warranties, but I’m on the fence.

Hi Amy! It sounds like you’re already doing the right things. A good case and careful use go a long way.

These phones are built to last, so if you’re not rough on it, odds are you’ll be fine without coverage.

The real question is this: would you be okay paying out of pocket for a screen repair or replacement if something happens?

If the peace of mind is worth it to you, that’s really what AppleCare is selling.

There’s also a newer AppleCare One plan that bundles coverage for multiple devices, around $20 a month for up to three gadgets. That might be worth a look if you’ve got more Apple gear.

Feedbag

Jill writes… I really appreciate what you do!

Frank in CT listening on WOR 710 AM writes… Hi Rich, thank you and keep up the good work. I listen every Sunday here in Connecticut.

Becky says… I really enjoy your show on the radio and your emails. They’re actually ones I read all the way through.

That’s it for this issue. Thanks so much for reading, and Becky, I hope you spotted your name at the end. You’ll only catch that if you make it all the way through.

Be sure to catch my radio show this weekend. It’s live Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pacific on KFI AM 640. Got a tech question or need help? Give me a call at 1-888-RICH-101. You can also catch the rebroadcast Sunday at 5 p.m. Pacific on 710 WOR in New York, or listen anytime on the podcast.

Follow me on Instagram and Facebook and feel free to forward this to a friend.

Rich

Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more - plus interviews with industry experts - all in this weekly show.

Booking.com breach exposes traveler data. Watch out for phishing emails related to travel.

The FBI figured out a way to access signal messages on an iPhone. If you want to keep your messages super secure, turn off message preview notifications.

Google now has new apps for both Windows and Mac computers.

Keith in Kansas is wondering if he should invest in a dedicated AI audio recorder like Plaud or Pocket. Rich mentioned he’s a fan of Whisper Memos, which works seamlessly with both the Apple Watch and iPhone.

Peter in Massachusetts just got a new Samsung A16, but if his Mint Mobile service isn’t working, he likely needs to manually update his Access Point Name (APN) settings to get his data and messaging up and running.

A website called send/links helps you save, organize, and find your links in one place, with the added convenience of being able to send them via Telegram.

Steve in Murietta wants to reduce his digital footprint and stop spam calls, so Rich recommends using Google’s "Results about you" tool to remove personal info from search results and check out this Consumer Reports article.

Don in New Hampshire wants sleep apnea detection. There is a sleep apnea feature on both the Apple Watches and the Galaxy Watches.

You can finally turn off YouTube Shorts, sort of.

A 73-year-old Anne Goldberg, author of Take This Phone and Shove It!, shares simple, real-world tips to help seniors outsmart scams, avoid AI-driven tricks, and feel confident using their smartphones.

Ed in Pennsylvania is wondering if he should try to connect his 25-year-old computer to the internet

Paul in Orange, California, who is visually impaired, is looking for mobile options beyond the iPhone. Rich suggested exploring Agentic AI features on Android, Gemini Live as well as dedicated hardware like the BlindShell Classic and Kapsys SmartVision phones, which offer tactile keypads and specialized interfaces.

Rich mentioned in his newsletter how much he loves the Orb app, which provides a live internet quality score on your computer’s desktop at all times.

Kim in Santa Cruz is looking to switch from Verizon to Pure Talk, and Rich notes that he will need his account number, phone number, and a port-out PIN to complete the transfer.

Eric in Mexico is looking for a way to connect a portable SiriusXM radio to a car with only Bluetooth and USB, and Rich suggests using an AirFly transmitter to bridge the gap.

Mint Mobile has a new home internet and wireless bundle for $45 a month. You do have to prepay for the whole year, $540.

Netgear is the first router company to get FCC conditional approval under their new rules.

Residential technology designer Carley Knobloch will share practical tips for choosing and using smart home tech that actually makes everyday life easier.

Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here.

How to Listen:

🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT

🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR - New York City, Sundays from 8 PM - 11 PM ET

📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide

Subscribe to the podcast. Premium subscribers can listen ad-free here.

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Rich on Tech Weekly airs on KTLA+. You can download the app on Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs.

Links may be affiliate.

Why your iPhone says it’s not backed up even when you have space, how to save meaningful voicemails forever, and an easy way to avoid overpaying for subscriptions like YouTube Premium.

Submit your question here!

Why your iPhone says it’s not backed up (even when you have space)

Your iPhone storage and iCloud storage are separate. Backups use iCloud, not your phone’s built-in storage.

How to check and fix it:

• Open Settings

• Tap your name

• Tap iCloud

• Tap Storage (or Manage Storage)

• Review what’s using space

• Delete old backups or unused data

• Upgrade your iCloud plan if needed

How to save voicemails permanently

If a voicemail is important, don’t leave it sitting in your phone.

Best method:

• Open the Phone app

• Tap Voicemail

• Select the message

• Tap the Share icon

• Save it to Files, Notes, or email it to yourself

• Upload it to cloud storage (iCloud Drive, Google Drive, etc.)

If you don’t see a Share option:

• Play the voicemail on speaker

• Record it with another device

How to pay less for YouTube Premium

Subscriptions through apps can cost more because of app store fees.

How to save:

• Cancel your subscription in the iPhone settings (if needed)

• Go to YouTube’s website in a browser

• Sign up there instead of in the app

• Consider an annual plan for additional savings

• Check one.google.com for bundled deals

Tip:

In-app subscriptions can be up to 30% more expensive than signing up directly on a website.

You can find your current subscriptions in iPhone > Settings > Tap your name > Subscriptions

A new wave of “agentic AI” can take action on your behalf, handling tasks like scheduling, writing documents, and more.

It promises major productivity gains, but also raises concerns about privacy, accuracy, and control.

• Charles Lew

• Rebecca Delfino

• Google Gemini

• Claude “Cowork” feature

• OpenClaw

Nex Playground turns your TV into an active gaming system using AI and a built-in camera, no controllers required.

With motion-based games for all ages, it’s designed to get everyone moving, laughing and playing together.

read my full review at KTLA.COM

• Streaming prices rise again: YouTube is increasing the price of YouTube Premium, adding to the growing list of str…

Read more

I have to admit, I feel pretty accomplished this week. I finally did something that had been on my to-do list for years: I backed up my Google Photos.

You might be wondering what took so long. There’s a bit of a backstory.

In the early days of Google Photos, backing up your entire library to another location was simple. I used a device called Ibi, basically a Wi-Fi-connected hard drive that automatically synced my photos at home. Plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and it quietly kept everything up to date.

That eventually went away, so I switched to a Synology NAS, which worked similarly. But then Google removed the ability to easily sync with third-party services, and my backup system fell apart.

For the past few years, my photo library has been in a bit of limbo, growing larger without a solid backup in place.

This week, I finally fixed that. I put together a plan, ordered a new Synology NAS and a 16TB hard drive, and copied over all 3TB of my photos. I’m still using Google Photos, but now I have a full local backup as a safety net.

If you want the full step-by-step, check out the blog post below.

And a quick reminder: back up your photos. No matter where they’re stored, they’re at risk. You could lose access to your account, a service could shut down, or data could be corrupted. It happens.

Samsung Messages is going away. Here’s what to do

Speaking of things going away, here’s one more headed for the history books: Samsung Messages.

Samsung is shutting down its Messages app in July and pushing users to switch to Google Messages.

This has been a long time coming. On newer Samsung phones, Google Messages has already been the default, even though you could still download and use Samsung Messages. Older phones came with Samsung Messages, but you’ve always had the option to switch.

If you’re still using Samsung Messages, the transition is pretty straightforward. Download or open Google Messages and you should see a prompt asking if you want to make it your default texting app. Tap yes and your messages should carry over automatically.

I say “should” because there’s always a chance something doesn’t transfer perfectly, especially group texts. To be safe, consider using an app like SMS Backup & Restore to create a backup of your messages before switching.

Once Samsung Messages is discontinued, you won’t be able to send texts through it, except for emergency numbers.

For those trying to avoid Google services, there are third-party messaging apps on Android. But Google Messages has one big advantage: it supports RCS. That means better texting between Android and iPhone, including typing indicators, read receipts, and higher-quality photos and videos. It also includes built-in spam protection and other useful features.

Amazon is ending support for older Kindles in May

Another device heading for retirement: older Kindles.

Amazon is ending support for Kindle models from 2012 and earlier on May 20. These devices are pushing 15 years old, but the reality is most people don’t upgrade a Kindle unless it breaks, so there are probably some still in use.

You can keep reading any books already on your device. But after the deadline, you won’t be able to download new books, borrow from the library, or reconnect the device if you reset or deregister it. In other words, it will no longer connect to Amazon’s servers.

Amazon says this affects a small percentage of users. To ease the transition, the company is offering 20% off a new Kindle plus a $20 credit.

Here is the list of affected e-readers (basically anything from 2012 or earlier):

How to identify your Kindle model:

• Swipe down from the top of the screen

• Tap All Settings

• Go to Device Options

• Tap Device Info

• Look for the Device Name

Amazon also has a page with photos of every model to help you identify yours.

Sponsored: Take back your privacy (best discount yet!)

I get a lot of questions about personal data floating around online.

Your information can show up in two very different places.

There are legitimate data broker and people-finder sites that collect and publish details like your name, address, and phone number. That’s the information services like Incogni can help remove.

Then there’s the dark web, which usually involves data from breaches. Once it’s there, it’s very difficult to control or remove. I got at least two breach notifications this week alone.

For the stuff you can control, I’ve been using Incogni. It automatically sends removal requests to data brokers on your behalf.

Since last May, it’s sent hundreds of takedown requests for me. In the past month alone, it got nearly two hundred data brokers to stop including my information. My dashboard shows that responses take about eight days on average.

You can add email addresses, phone numbers, and home addresses to cover different variations of your data.

Now they’re offering their biggest discount yet for my readers.

Protect your identity. Get 60% off at Incogni but only with code RICHONTECH at checkout.

Back up your computer before it’s too late

I’ve talked a lot about backing up your photos. But what about everything else on your computer?

Your documents, files, and anything you might need down the road should have a backup too. A lot of our data lives in the cloud these days, but not everything does and it only takes one issue to lose it.

I put together a simple guide that walks you through how to back up your most important files on both Windows and Mac. You’ll find it below.

How to make your computer feel brand new again

I almost upgraded my MacBook Air M3 recently. Apple released new laptops, and I started pricing one out.

But then I took a step back and realized something: my current computer is still perfectly fine, even after two years.

So instead of upgrading, I tried something else. I wiped the hard drive, reinstalled the operating system, and started fresh.

If you’ve ever thought about doing this, it works. My computer feels new again.

I install a lot of software to test things, so over time my machines get cluttered. I used to do a full reset with every major OS update, but stopped because it takes a while to get everything set up just right.

This time, I had a free Sunday morning and went for it. It’s actually pretty straightforward. Back everything up, take note of any special settings, make a list of your apps, and you can get everything back up and running without the junk.

If your computer is older, you can also install a lighter operating system to turn it into a simple machine for email, web browsing, and video.

I walk through exactly what I did in the segment below and in this post.

Tech Tidbits

Spectrum is launching a Fire TV app on April 15.

YouTube Premium is the latest streaming service to raise prices. The individual plan is going up $2 and the family plan is increasing by $4. If you subscribe to Google One, check if you can bundle for a discount, or consider paying annually to save a bit.

I’ve been obsessed with the photos from the Artemis mission. The iPhone shots were fun, but the more professional images are on another level. I’m now using them as wallpaper on my phone and computer. You can browse the full Flickr photo stream here.

Download this: A free speech-to-text app from Google

Google is getting into the speech-to-text game with a new iOS app called Google AI Edge Eloquent.

It’s very simple. Tap record, start talking, and it transcribes your speech in real time. When you’re done, it goes a step further and cleans things up, removing filler words like “um” so the final transcript reads much more naturally.

You can copy and paste the text, or even have it rewrite what you said to extract key points, make it more formal, shorten it, or expand it.

There doesn’t appear to be a limit, and it’s completely free. This could be an easy way to transcribe meetings or notes on your iPhone without paying for another app.

There are a lot of options in this space right now, but this is one of the simplest I’ve seen.

You can also connect it to your Google account for more personalized features. An Android version is reportedly on the way. I’d still like to see Google bring this kind of AI-powered transcription directly into Gboard on Android.

Q&A: iPhone Keyboard Fix

Steve, Beaumont, CA

Hi Rich, one thing I really like about Android phones is the keyboard with the numbers across the top. Is there any way to get that same setup on my iPhone 15 Pro?

Great question. You can get that same setup on an iPhone by installing Microsoft SwiftKey. It includes an option to add a number row across the top, just like on Android.

I’m sure there are other keyboards that offer this too, but this is the one I’m most familiar with and it works well.

Once you install the app, open SwiftKey settings and turn on the number row. That’s it.

Feedbag

Keith in North Carolina writes…

I teach in a paralegal program at a community college here in North Carolina, after 40 years as an attorney. One of my classes is legal technology, and as an “old dog” trying to learn new tricks, I’m always looking for ways to stay up to date for my students. With AI and e-discovery changing so quickly, it’s tough to keep up… but your work really helps. Thank you!

Melanie in Ventura, CA writes…

I wish I could adopt you… it’s been so hard since our computer expert son moved to Tennessee. Thanks for all your help!

MaryJane writes…

You’re the reason we went to see The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere. When you said spending $100 gambling wouldn’t create the same memories, we were in.

My daughter grew up on Wizard of Oz, so I decided to celebrate a milestone birthday with this trip. We went to Vegas, saw the show, and even brought my 92-year-old mother.

It was one of the most amazing experiences we’ve ever had. You were right, we made memories that will last forever.

I appreciate the kind words. One last thing before I go: coffee.

I love my morning coffee, and I was probably one of the first people to jump on K-Cups when they came out. They’re convenient, but let’s be honest, the coffee isn’t great.

This week I picked up an AeroPress again, and it reminded me why I liked it so much. It’s simple to use, doesn’t require a big machine, and makes a rich, bold cup that tastes way better than a typical K-Cup.

I’ll probably stick with the Keurig during busy mornings, but on weekends when I want to slow down and enjoy a better cup, this is what I’ll be using.

That’s it for this issue of the newsletter!

Be sure to tune into the radio show Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call in with your tech questions or if you need tech advice at 1-888-RICH-101. You can also catch the replay Sunday nights at 5 p.m. Pacific on 710 WOR in New York, or subscribe to the podcast and listen anytime.

Rich

Before Google Photos, there was Picasa. It was a simple program you installed on your computer that automatically found every photo on your hard drive and organized them chronologically. No cloud, no subscriptions, just a clean, easy way to see your entire library in one place.

Google Photos took that idea and pushed it even further. Now it’s cloud-based and can actually understand what’s in your photos. I can search my library and find just about anything in seconds. At this point, I’m sitting on more than 220,000 photos.

You can check your own count by opening the Google Photos app and tapping the “Backup complete” indicator in the upper left.

The backup problem

In the early days, Google offered an API that let third-party apps access your photo library. That made it easy to back everything up or organize it in different ways.

Eventually, Google shut that down, likely for security reasons. That’s good for privacy, but it made backups a lot harder.

Ever since then, I’ve been trying to find a reliable way to back up my entire Google Photos collection to a drive I actually own.

If your library is small, this is easy. Google Takeout lets you export your entire collection. You can download it or send it to services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, or Box.

There’s even a version of Takeout specifically for Google Photos that can transfer your library directly to Apple iCloud, Flickr, Microsoft OneDrive, or SmugMug.

But when your collection is over 3 TB like mine, things get complicated. If you’re curious, head to one.google.com and tap “Storage” on the left-hand side.

Why this gets tricky fast

Google splits Takeout exports into 50 GB chunks. For me, that meant 88 separate files.

Now you’re dealing with:

• Huge downloads

• Storage limits

• Time-consuming transfers

And if you’re already paying for cloud storage, finding space for several terabytes of data is not cheap.

On top of that, there’s a real risk in having your entire photo history stored in one place. Even if Google is reliable, losing access to your account could mean losing everything.

That’s not a chance I want to take.

My solution: cloud to NAS

After a lot of trial and error, here’s what worked.

The goal was simple:

1. Export my photos using Google Takeout

2. Send them to Google Drive

3. Let Google Drive sync to a NAS (network attached storage) at home

A NAS is basically your own personal cloud. It’s a hard drive connected to your network that you control.

I initially tried a UGREEN NAS, but it was loud and the software wasn’t reliable. Sync issues and duplicate files made it a non-starter.

So I switched back to Synology. I used the same 16 TB drive I purchased and it was a much better experience.

I tested syncing with both Google Drive and Dropbox, made some changes, and confirmed everything worked correctly. Once I knew it was solid, I upgraded my Google Drive storage to 10 TB to handle the Takeout files.

The process

Here’s how it played out:

• Requested a Google Takeout export

• Chose Google Drive as the destination

• Waited a few days for Google to prepare the files

• Files started appearing in Google Drive

• Google Drive synced everything to my Synology NAS (I got the DS225+)

At one point, my Drive storage was nearly maxed out at 10 TB. As I moved files off the synced folder on the NAS, space freed up again.

One important note: files in your Google Drive trash still count toward your storage, so you need to empty it.

Once everything finished syncing, I moved the files to a non-synced folder on the NAS. At that point, I had a full physical copy of my photo library at home.

The catch

The moment you finish, your backup is already outdated.

Every new photo you take isn’t included unless you run the process again.

For me, doing this once or twice a year is good enough. It gives me a solid snapshot of my library and peace of mind knowing I have a local copy.

A couple of takeaways

This process could be much easier.

Ideally, Google would offer a simple way to continuously sync your photo library to a local drive. Imagine a plug-and-play device that connects to Wi-Fi and keeps a live backup of your photos at home.

That would solve a lot of problems.

If you have a smaller library, there’s an easier option. Download your photos using Takeout and upload them to Amazon Photos. Prime members get unlimited photo storage, which gives you a second backup without much effort.

The bottom line

This isn’t a perfect backup.

The ideal setup is simple: one copy in the cloud, one on a local drive, and one somewhere else entirely.

Right now, I’ve got two: the cloud and a physical backup at home. That’s good enough for me. If something happens to one, the other is still there.

And when you’re talking about 20 years of memories, that redundancy matters.

Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just storage. It’s your entire digital memory bank.

And knowing you have a copy you control makes a big difference.

Americans lost nearly $21 billion to cybercrime last year, a 26% increase from the year before. Investment scams, crypto scams, and phishing remain the most common ways criminals target victims.

Samsung Messages is going away this summer. You’ll need to switch to Google Messages, which should make texting more secure and improve messaging between iPhone and Android.

Susan in Orange County is heading to China. Rich recommends bringing a VPN, a portable power bank, messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, and translation tools such as Google Translate, Apple Translate, or Gemini. For connectivity, he suggests using an eSIM from Airalo.

Older Kindle models are losing support in May. Here’s the list of affected devices and how to check yours.

Vic in Sherman Oaks asks whether a smartphone can be remotely wiped even if it’s offline.

Bob emails asking if you can see speed limits and hazards in Apple Maps or Google Maps on CarPlay without entering a destination. Rich says Google Maps used to offer a Drive Mode, but it appears to be gone. For now, your best option is Waze, which shows that info even without a destination set.

YouTube Premium is raising prices by $1 to $4 a month.

Marianne in Los Angeles says her copper landline is being phased out. Rich suggests alternatives like Ooma, Ooma LTE, or Starlink.

Inc. has a great article on what businesses can do right now to avoid the same fate as the massive LAPD data breach.

Yolanda says when she clicks links in spam text messages, she gets an “Error 400.” Rich says don’t click those links. Instead, reply with “STOP,” “unsubscribe,” or just delete the message. Better yet, enable spam text filtering on your iPhone or Android.

Connie writes in that she’s buying an iPhone from Apple as a gift for her daughter and asks whether to choose Verizon or “connect to any carrier later.” Rich recommends choosing “connect to any carrier later,” which gives you an unlocked phone. Her daughter can then activate it on Verizon once she receives it.

Fabrice says changes in his Outlook email aren’t showing up in Gmail. What’s going on? Rich says it’s likely set up using POP3 instead of IMAP.

Alex is looking for a truly free VPN with no upfront cost. Rich recommends Proton VPN and Windscribe as solid options. Just know they come with limitations. You won’t get all the premium features, but they’ll get the job done.

Doug Suttles, co-creator of Speedtest, explains why your internet speed isn’t the full story and how his new tool called Orb reveals what’s actually slowing your connection.

Martino called in to say he loves MagicJack and recommends it as a solid alternative to a traditional landline.

Spectrum is finally launching a Fire TV app, arriving April 15.

Mark in Torrance is looking for a way to organize and preserve 40 years of photography. Rich recommends options like Google Photos albums, Dropbox, or a dedicated service such as SmugMug.

Waymo cars are now scanning roads for potholes and reporting that to both cities and ways.

Rich mentioned how to turn on voice isolation on the iPhone.

Robert says when he texts himself on his Android phone, it doesn’t come through. Clearing the cache for the Messaging app might help - just be careful not to clear the data, that will delete your messages. Rich mentioned Email me apps for iPhone and Android.

Ross Barbour of Sonos explains how the latest Sonos speakers make whole-home audio more flexible, portable, and easier to expand. Mentioned: Sonos Play and Sonos Era 100 SL.

Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more - plus interviews with industry experts - all in this weekly show.

Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here.

How to Listen:

🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT

🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR - New York City, Sundays from 8 PM - 11 PM ET

📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide

Subscribe to the podcast. Premium subscribers can listen ad-free here.

Follow Rich on Instagram. Subscribe to my free newsletter.

Rich on Tech Weekly airs on KTLA+. You can download the app on Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs.

Links may be affiliate.

Every weekend, the Rich on Tech radio show airs on stations nationwide, covering the latest tech news, tips, listener questions and expert insights.

Here are some of the recent highlights!

AI voice scams are getting more convincing

Experts are warning about a growing threat: AI-powered voice scams.

For the first time, bots now outnumber humans online, and that’s making it harder than ever to tell who you’re actually interacting with.

Even something as simple as answering a phone call and saying “hello” could put you at risk.

“They’re actually probably gathering your voice, they know your phone number, they know your identity, and they’re storing that together,” said Alex Oberg of Helix.id.

Scammers can use short voice samples to build AI-generated clones that sound like you.

That’s why experts say it’s best not to engage with suspicious calls.

“I think the short answer is pretty easy next time you get one of those phone calls don’t pick up or hang up right away,” said Oberg.

Airline fees are rising, but there are ways around them

Flying is getting more expensive, especially when it comes to baggage fees.

“It’s gonna cost up the fifty bucks for one check bag,” said travel expert Johnny Jet.

He says airlines are increasingly pushing travelers toward their credit cards or loyalty programs.

“Well what they’re doing is they’re trying to make you get their credit card. Because if you get their credit card, then you don’t have to pay the baggage fees. Or unless you have elite status. So that’s the other option,” he said.

There are also ways to save time when travel doesn’t go as planned.

Instead of waiting in long lines at the airport, try using the airline’s app chat feature to rebook your flight.

“I started chatting with the guy and I said, listen, I’m on a flight at at 6 p.m. It’s 3 p.m. now. I know we’re not gonna make it. Can you put me on the next flight or find an alternative or put me on the the morning flight,” Jet said. “Sure enough they were able to do it for the last flight of the day.”

Another tip: keep an eye on your seat assignment, especially if your airline swaps planes.

One helpful tool is the Flighty app, which now tracks major airport disruptions in real time.

Why it’s so hard to put your phone down

If you’ve ever struggled to stop scrolling, you’re not alone.

Experts say many apps are designed to keep you hooked.

“We are one person with a finite amount of willpower and these platforms have unlimited resources on the other side of that fight,” said Olivia Yokubonis of Opal.

She compares the experience to having a slot machine in your pocket.

“So every time you get a like or a comment or even just like a new post, your brain releases this small hit of dopamine. And that’s the same kind of thing behind the slot machine. So a variable reward is a slot machine, but now we have that slot machine in our pocket,” she said.

If willpower isn’t enough, tools like the Opal app can help by blocking distracting apps at certain times.

“I’m not against technology. I love technology. I use it every day. I’m against us losing five hours, six hours, seven hours a day without even realizing it,” Yokubonis said.

You can catch the Rich on Tech radio show on weekends or subscribe to the podcast for more tech news and tips.

A brand new computer can cost hundreds, even thousands of dollars. But you don’t necessarily have to spend anything to get that fresh-out-of-the-box feeling.

With a few simple steps, you can breathe new life into the computer you already have.

Start with a clean slate

One of the easiest ways to speed things up is a clean install of your operating system. That means erasing everything and starting over from scratch.

But before you do anything, back up your files.

Move them to the cloud or copy them to an external drive. On a Mac, you can use Time Machine. On Windows, use the built-in backup tool or File History.

It’s also a good idea to make a quick list of the apps you use and any important settings so you can set things back up the way you like.

How to reset your computer

Once you’re ready:

• On a Mac, go to System Settings, then General, then Transfer or Reset, and choose Erase.

• On Windows, search for “Reset,” go to “Reset this PC,” and choose the option to remove everything.

Just remember, this completely erases everything on your computer except the operating system. Your files, folders, photos and everything else. There’s no undo.

The upside? When you set it back up, you can install only what you need and leave the clutter behind.

Give it a quick refresh

A little physical cleanup can go a long way too.

Use some canned air to clear out dust and a gentle cleaner like Whoosh to wipe down the screen and keyboard. It can make your computer look and feel like new.

Another option for older computers

If your computer is really showing its age, there’s another option: install an alternative operating system.

Options like Chrome OS Flex or Linux Mint are free and lightweight.

See the installation guide for Chrome OS Flex here.

See the installation guide for Linux Mint here.

Chrome OS Flex can turn an older computer into something that works more like a Chromebook. Linux Mint is also lightweight and feels familiar, especially for Windows users, though most programs come from its own app store.

These systems can make even a 10-year-old computer feel fast again. They’re great for web browsing, email and streaming video, and in many cases, more secure than what you had before.

Installing an alternative operating system can be fairly simple, but only if you know what you’re doing. If not, it’s worth getting help from someone who does.

I went inside Urban Armor Gear’s SoCal headquarters to see how they design and test some of the toughest phone cases on the market.

From Kevlar builds to 30 foot drop ratings, here’s why UAG believes paying more upfront for a case could save your phone and boost its resale value.

read my full post on KTLA.COM

Read more

And once it’s gone… it’s usually gone for good.

There’s a well-known rule in tech called the 3-2-1 rule: three copies of your data, on two different types of storage, with one copy off-site.

But let’s be real… most people aren’t doing that.

So here’s the simpler version:

If you have even ONE solid backup, you’re already ahead of most people.

Because the biggest risk today isn’t always losing your data… it’s losing access to it.

Accounts get hacked. Passwords get forgotten. Accounts get locked. And suddenly everything is still there… but you can’t get to it.

That’s why having your own copy matters.

Your own cloud at home (NAS)

If you want more control, you can create your own personal cloud using a NAS (Network Attached Storage).

Think of it as a hard drive connected to your home network that stores everything in one place.

Popular options include:

• Synology

• QNAP

• UGREEN

I tested a cheaper NAS setup and it didn’t go well… slow, loud, unreliable.

Switching to Synology made a huge difference. Everything just worked. I was able to sync my Google Drive, Dropbox, and even old external drives into one place.

Backing up your photos

Photos are the #1 thing people regret losing.

Here are a few ways to back them up:

• Use Google Takeout to download your entire Google Photos library

• Apple users can request a copy of their iCloud Photos or transfer them to another service

• Apps like Parachute Backup can pull your data down to local storage

My setup: I export with Google Takeout, send it to Google Drive, and my NAS automatically downloads and stores everything locally.

Even if you don’t go that far, just make sure your photos exist in more than one place.

Backing up your computer

This is actually the easiest one to get right.

Mac

• Use Time Machine
  Just plug in an external drive and it handles everything automatically

Windows

• Use OneDrive for simple cloud backup (click the Start menu and just type “backup”)

• Or File History for local backups to an external drive (click the Start menu and just type “file history”)

If you want more flexibility:

• FreeFileSync lets you mirror folders to a drive or NAS automatically

Backing up your phone

This is where a lot of people get caught off guard.

iPhone

• Turn on iCloud Backup (Settings → your name → iCloud → iCloud Backup > Back Up Now)

• You can also do a full local backup through Finder on a Mac or Apple Devices or iTunes on Windows

Android

• On Android… go to Settings → Google → Backup… and make sure “Backup by Google One” is turned on.

• If you have a Samsung phone… go to Settings → Accounts and Backup → Samsung Cloud and check your backup there too.

• Some phones support USB backups

For text messages:

• SMS Backup and Restore can automatically save your texts to the cloud or locally

Advanced tools (for more control)

If you want to dig into your backups and pull out specific things like messages:

• iMazing

• AltTunes

These let you browse your backups and extract exactly what you need.

The bottom line

Backups don’t need to be complicated.

You don’t need the perfect system.

You just need something in place that’s actually working.

Because the people who email me every week all say the same thing:

“I wish I had backed this up.”

Don’t be that person.

It’s just a few hours north of Los Angeles, but it feels like a world away. Quiet streets, mountains in the distance, long walks, wine tastings, great meals, and a much-needed break from the usual hustle.

It’s one of our favorite places, and we’ve been coming here for over a…

Read more

Rich talked about the importance of backing up your phone, computer, photos and texts. Check out his guide here.

Sophia in Westlake asks if an out-of-cloud storage email she received is legit.

Helix CEO Alex Oberg on building a privacy-first digital ID layer to prove what’s real online in an era of AI fakes.

Anthony in Palmdale asks how to call his wife by voice on Samsung, and Rich recommends using Bixby, Google Assistant, or Gemini.

Rich in San Diego asks if Carbonite is a good backup service, and Rich says to compare it with Backblaze and iDrive.

Karen in Los Angeles asks why deleting photos on her iPhone also deletes them from iCloud; Rich says iCloud sync mirrors changes, suggests turning on Optimize iPhone Storage, and notes Amazon Photos offers unlimited photo backup for Prime members (with video storage turned off).

You can finally change your Gmail address, and your old one will still work.

ChatGPT is now available in CarPlay—just update to iOS 16.4 and the latest ChatGPT app.

Barbara in San Bernardino is wondering how to cut down on her AOL email spam. One helpful way is to turn off remote image loading.

Johnny Jet shares the latest tips on flight disruptions, booking strategies, and what travelers need to know right now.

Samsung Watches can now monitor Blood Pressure - but you’ll still need to calibrate with a cuff once a month.

Scott in Ventura asks how to move music from his iPhone to a Mac, and Rich recommends iMazing, EaseUS MobiMover or AnyTrans.

FYI, YouTube Music can host a free cloud library.

AT&T’s new OneConnect bundle combines wireless and home internet into a single plan that could save you money.

Dee in the City of Industry thinks she’s under a cyberattack, and Rich suggests enabling Lockdown Mode on the iPhone.

Jefferson Graham, host and producer of the travel TV show Photowalks, will share smart travel photography tips, scenic destination ideas, and how to take better photos on the road.

Rich DeMuro brings you the latest tech news, helpful tips, gadget reviews, and more - plus interviews with industry experts - all in this weekly show.

Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here.

How to Listen:

🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT

🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR - New York City, Sundays from 8 PM - 11 PM ET

📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide

Subscribe to the podcast. Premium subscribers can listen ad-free here.

Follow Rich on Instagram. Subscribe to my free newsletter.

Rich on Tech Weekly airs on KTLA+. You can download the app on Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs.

Links may be affiliate.

The new Sonos Play ($299) is a portable speaker with Bluetooth, 24-hour battery life and a built-in power bank, while the Sonos Era 100 SL ($189) is a simpler home speaker with no microphones for added privacy.

Both speakers work with the Sonos system and app, which the company says is now back on track after past issues.

read my full post on KTLA.COM

A new VR system lets you physically walk, run, and explore inside virtual worlds instead of using a controller.

The Omni One uses a low-friction base and special shoes to turn gaming into a full-body, immersive experience.

read my full post at KTLA.COM