• Meta faces landmark teen safety trial: Twenty-nine states accuse Meta of designing Facebook and Instagram to hook young users while misleading parents about safety. Former Meta executive Arturo Behar testi…

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Last weekend we were in Denver for a wedding, and it was a lot of fun, except for getting caught in a major downpour. I also did the radio show from there, which is always an adventure. And while we were there, I picked up a pretty good trick for finding unique local restaurants when you travel, which I’ll share in a moment.

First, though, I want to talk about scams, because at this point it feels like no matter where I go, someone has a story. They were scammed, they almost got scammed, their parents were scammed, or someone close to them lost money.

And I’m not talking about the obvious junk email sitting in your spam folder. I’m talking about scams where there is real money at stake, sometimes a lot of it.

The people running these scams do not care who they hurt or what the consequences are. And while seniors are often targeted, this is not just a senior problem anymore. Everyone is a target.

So my advice is to talk about this stuff with the people in your life. Explain what a scam actually looks and feels like, because usually there are a few common ingredients.

There is urgency. Something has happened and you need to fix it right now.

There is often secrecy. Don’t tell your spouse. Don’t call anyone. Stay on the phone.

And eventually, there is money. Transfer funds, buy gift cards, withdraw cash, pay a bill or move money somewhere “safe.”

A good rule of thumb is that almost nothing legitimate needs to be handled while someone is waiting on the phone for you. If someone is creating panic and telling you that you need to act immediately, hang up. Call someone you trust. Then contact the bank, company or agency yourself using a phone number or website you know is legitimate.

I also think we’ve reached the point where it makes sense to put a few extra technological guardrails in place.

One of the easiest is an ad blocker. Malicious ads are a huge way scammers get in front of people. You search for a program, a bank, a utility company or some other service, click what looks like the right result and end up somewhere completely different. Or you’re on a legitimate website and an ad pops up claiming you need to download something, buy more cloud storage or install antivirus software.

On my computer, I use Ghostery and really like it. On smartphones, I also like AdGuard.

If you use Chrome, I would also turn on Enhanced Safe Browsing. You’ll find it under Settings, Privacy and security, then Security.

Enhanced Safe Browsing gives you more proactive protection against dangerous websites, downloads and extensions. There is a privacy tradeoff because Google has to analyze more information about the sites you’re visiting to provide those real-time protections. If you’re not comfortable with that, Standard protection is still better than nothing.

Personally, I think Enhanced Safe Browsing is worth the tradeoff.

None of these tools can stop every scam, but they can remove some of the opportunities scammers use to get in front of you. The biggest protection is still slowing down when someone is trying to make you panic.

My new trick for finding great local restaurants

Okay, now that we’ve gotten through the serious stuff, let me tell you a quick story about finding places to eat in Denver.

One of the hardest things in a new city is finding a fun, casual, truly local restaurant without ending up at a tourist trap. For lunch, someone suggested Cherry Cricket, an old-school, quirky burger joint that was exactly what I was looking for. So I asked AI, “How do I find a restaurant like this in every city I go to?”

It suggested two searches: “best casual local institution near me” or “old-school neighborhood restaurant near me.”

The trick is to use those inside Ask Maps, the AI feature built into Google Maps. Open Google Maps, tap Ask Maps, then type in one of those phrases. The idea is that instead of just searching for “restaurants near me,” you’re describing the kind of place you actually want to find.

The next morning, I tried it for breakfast and found Pete’s Kitchen. When I told the valet where we were going, he wasn’t impressed. He hadn’t heard of it, said it wasn’t in the best area and suggested two more famous places that had been featured on TV. They were also quite a bit more expensive, so we decided to stick with Pete’s.

Good decision. It ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. It was inexpensive, local, unpretentious and memorable. We had a great breakfast and even walked the two miles back to our hotel afterward.

My takeaway is that the places with the most publicity aren’t always the ones you’ll enjoy most. This little trick worked twice in Denver, so I’m keeping it. Next time I’m in a new city, I’m opening Ask Maps inside Google Maps and asking it to find me a “casual local institution” or an “old-school neighborhood restaurant.”

Kindle’s Libby airplane mode trick may stop working

If you use Libby to check out books from your local library and read them on a Kindle, here’s a quick heads-up about a popular little trick that may be going away.

Normally, when you borrow a Kindle book through Libby, it expires when your library loan ends. But for years, readers discovered that if they downloaded the book to their Kindle and then put it into airplane mode, they could often keep reading after the due date. This was especially handy for slower readers who just needed more time to finish.

Now, a bunch of Kindle users on Reddit are reporting that the trick no longer works for them. Even with the book downloaded and the Kindle in airplane mode, they’re being told they need to reconnect before they can continue reading.

The interesting part is that it doesn’t seem to be happening to everyone yet. Some people in the same thread tested it and said airplane mode is still working just fine for them. So this could depend on your Kindle model, software version or changes that are still rolling out.

Either way, if you’ve been relying on the airplane mode trick to finish your Libby books, just know that your extra reading time might be coming to an end.

This might be my new favorite movie tracking app

I usually don’t recommend new apps until I’ve spent a lot of time with them, but I like this one so much that I’m making an exception.

It’s called I Like Movies, and it’s basically a really clean way to keep track of all the movies you want to watch. It’s available on Android now, and the developer tells me the iPhone version is already built and should be available by September 15.

What I like most is that it seems to have all the little things I’ve wanted from a movie app in one place. You get Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb scores, a description, the trailer and where the movie is streaming. You can also create multiple lists and tap on an actor to see their other movies.

You can also rate the movies you’ve seen, and the app will use that information to make recommendations. There’s even a household feature so people can share a library and watchlist.

On privacy, the developer says your watchlists, favorites and ratings are private and only visible to you and members of your household, if you choose to share one.

I’ve already made three separate lists: movies I want to watch by myself, movies to watch with my wife and movies to watch with the kids. In theory, this means we’ll never spend half of movie night scrolling through streaming services trying to agree on something again. We’ll see how that goes.

Right now, the app is free and there are no ads. The developer says the basics, including ratings, watchlists and friends, will remain free. The upcoming premium tier will mostly add unlimited access to an AI assistant and a more advanced Discover section.

I typically recommend JustWatch and Reelgood for figuring out what to watch and where it’s streaming, but dare I say, I think I like this one better.

The Android version is available now, and I’ll keep an eye out for the iPhone version when it launches.

A quick word from this week’s sponsor

Scams are getting harder to spot, and while no app can protect you from every bad decision online, I like having technology that can help put a few extra roadblocks between me and scammers.

That’s one reason I use Surfshark. I originally signed up for the VPN, but these days I think some of its other privacy and security features are just as useful.

CleanWeb can block ads, trackers and many malicious websites before they load. That can provide an extra layer of protection if you accidentally click a sketchy link in an email or text message. It can also help block those annoying pop-ups and trackers that follow you around the web.

Another feature I really like is Alternative ID. It creates an alternate email address that forwards messages to your real inbox, so you don’t have to give every website your actual email address. It can even generate an online persona with a name and date of birth for those random websites that insist on asking for personal information they really don’t need.

I’ve used Alternative ID myself when connecting to public Wi-Fi that wanted way too much information just to get online.

And of course, there’s the VPN itself. I keep Surfshark running on my phone most of the time. It encrypts my internet traffic and gives me more privacy, especially when I’m using public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels and coffee shops.

No security tool replaces common sense, but Surfshark gives you several useful layers of protection in one app. That’s why it has become one of the tools I use every day.

Surfshark is offering Rich on Tech readers a special deal, including extra months free and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

🔗 Check out my exclusive Surfshark offer!

Uber can deliver more than just food

Random, I know, but did you know Uber can courier things around town for you?

We usually think of Uber as a way to get a ride or have food delivered, but there’s also a feature called Courier that lets you send small items across town.

I used it this week when I needed to get something to a friend. In Los Angeles, where traffic can turn a simple errand into an hour-long project, I paid about $20 for someone to come to my house, pick it up and bring it straight to theirs.

It works a lot like requesting a ride. You enter the pickup and drop-off locations, someone comes to get the item, and you can track the delivery along the way.

Uber says people use Courier for things like forgotten keys, phone chargers, documents, gifts and other everyday items. Just know there are restrictions on what you can send, along with value and weight limits, and Uber says package loss or damage isn’t covered.

It’s one of those features you may never need until suddenly you really do. So consider this one to keep in your back pocket.

What Cox customers need to know about the Spectrum merger

There’s been a mega merger in the cable business: Cox is now part of Spectrum.

If you’re a Cox customer, you’ll start seeing Spectrum products, pricing and branding roll out beginning in mid-September. The slightly confusing part is that Charter Communications, Spectrum’s parent company, eventually plans to rename itself Cox Communications, while the actual consumer service will continue to use the Spectrum name.

So what does this mean for you?

For starters, Cox internet customers who don’t already have Cox Mobile can get one free year of mobile service.

And here’s a big one for Dodgers fans: SportsNet LA is now available to eligible Cox TV customers in several former Cox markets. You can find it on channel 63 in Orange County, 54 in Palos Verdes, 36 in Santa Barbara and 50 in Las Vegas.

In mid-September, Spectrum will start offering its plans in Cox markets, including TV packages that bundle streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Paramount+ and Peacock at no extra charge.

Importantly, it doesn’t sound like existing Cox customers will automatically be forced onto a new Spectrum plan. The company has previously said customers will have the option to switch to Spectrum pricing and packages or keep their existing plan.

Over the next year, Cox customers are also supposed to get Spectrum’s customer service guarantees, including 24/7 U.S.-based support, faster repair appointments and credits for outages lasting more than two hours.

My advice: don’t change anything yet. When the new Spectrum plans show up in September, compare them with what you already have and see if there’s a better deal.

Tech accessories worth checking out

This week on TV, I shared three tech accessories that recently caught my attention.

There’s the UAG Dryout Pouch, a $35 reusable pouch designed to help pull lingering moisture out of a wet phone. The XTREM INNO case has a small E Ink display on the back that you can change with a photo or design whenever you want. And the Twelve South Valet is a leather catch-all tray with Qi2 wireless charging built in for your phone or earbuds.

You can check out all three products at the links, or watch my full segment below.

Tech Tidbits

Google AI Pro free for students: Eligible college students in the U.S. can get Google AI Pro free for one year. It includes higher Gemini limits, Gemini Spark, Gemini inside apps like Gmail and Docs, extra cloud storage and other premium Google AI features.

Peacock is raising prices again: The top Premium Plus plan, which removes most ads, is going up $3 to $19.99 a month.

Alexa+ is now free on Fire TV: Amazon is bringing Alexa+ to compatible Fire TV devices at no extra charge, even if you’re not a Prime member. I can’t imagine many people were paying $20 a month for it before, but now you don’t have to.

ChatGPT has a new teen mode: My advice if you have a 13-to-17-year-old using ChatGPT: go into Settings > Parental controls and link your accounts. You can set limits, manage certain features and get notified in rare cases involving serious safety concerns.

Sonos lock screen controls are back on iPhone: Finally. You can once again control Sonos playback from the iPhone lock screen, although you may need to enable the feature first.

My take on the Pixel 11 Pro

I’ve been using the Pixel 11 Pro for about 10 days now, and I can tell you this: it’s my favorite Pixel yet.

The camera is fast and effortless, nighttime photos and selfies look great, and the software is about as close to perfect as it gets for me. Everything seems to take fewer taps, and the phone has a knack for anticipating what you want to do next.

A few features I especially like: Rambler, which is the best voice typing I’ve used on a phone; the new camera Looks; and creator tools like a built-in teleprompter and audio levels that make shooting social videos much easier.

My biggest complaint is the same one I’ve always had with Pixels: it’s just not that fast. Everyday tasks are perfectly snappy, but start working with larger files or video and you’ll notice it taking a beat or two longer than the latest iPhone or Samsung.

My buying advice: if you want a simple smartphone with a great camera and incredibly smart software, get the Pixel. If raw speed and power are your priority, look elsewhere.

But did I mention how much I love the software?

Q&A: Easier phone calling

Barbara in Torrance writes…

I have a 92-year-old best friend with significant vision loss who was recently diagnosed with dementia. Using the phone has become difficult, especially looking up or remembering numbers. Is there a phone that would let her simply say, “Call Barbara” or “Call Lorrie”?

Yes, and I would actually start with the phone she already has. Most modern smartphones can make calls by voice, so she can simply say “Call Barbara” using Siri on an iPhone or Gemini or Bixby on a Samsung Galaxy. I’d also make sure hands-free voice activation is turned on in Settings, so she doesn’t have to touch the phone first. That way she can just say “Hey Siri,” “Hey Google,” or “Hey Bixby” and then ask it to make the call.

You can also simplify the phone itself. On an iPhone, Assistive Access creates a much simpler interface with larger buttons and fewer distractions. Samsung has Easy Mode, which makes text and icons larger, simplifies the layout and lets you put important contacts right on the Home screen. Pixel phones have a similar feature called Simple View, which enlarges text and icons and simplifies the overall interface to make the phone easier to use.

If a regular smartphone is still too complicated, there are phones specifically designed for this. The RAZ Memory Cell Phone is made for people with memory loss, while BlindShell devices are designed for people with vision loss and includes voice-control features.

The goal is to remove as many steps as possible. Ideally, she should be able to call the handful of people she talks to regularly with either one tap or a simple voice command.

Longtime KFI Listener

Steve writes…

I’ve been listening to tech shows on KFI for a long time, and I think yours is the best show for listener interaction and keeping up with what’s happening in technology.

It’s down to earth, easy to share with others, and covers what works and what doesn’t, whether you’re an Apple or Android.

Thank you for always being honest and straightforward with your information.

Hey Steve, coming from someone who has been listening to tech on KFI for that long, this really means a lot. Your words made my day. My goal is always to be as helpful as I can with the information I provide, whether it’s on TV, radio or in this newsletter. I hope you can feel my smile coming through the interwebs.

That’s going to do it for this week. Thanks so much for reading, watching and, of course, listening.

My radio show is live Saturdays at 11 a.m. Pacific on KFI AM 640. Listen on the radio or stream anywhere with the iHeartRadio app. You can also catch the replay Sunday nights at 8 p.m. Eastern on 710 WOR in New York, or subscribe to the podcast and listen anytime.

Rich

Want the commercial-free, higher-quality audio version? VIP newsletter subscribers can listen here.

• Meta faces landmark teen safety trial: Twenty-nine states accuse Meta of designing Facebook and Instagram to hook young users while misleading parents about safety. Former Meta executive Arturo Behar testified that growth and engagement often took priority over child safety, while Meta denies wrongdoing.

• Pixel 11’s Rambler speeds up replies: Rich says the Pixel 11 Pro’s Rambler voice-to-text feature has made it much faster to respond to emails by turning spoken thoughts into clean, formatted text.

• I Like Movies app tracks what to watch: Rich recommends the clean, feature-packed movie tracking app, which is available on Android now with an iPhone version expected in September.

• Watching KTLA without home internet: Marshall in Reseda wants to watch KTLA+ without home internet. KTLA+ is designed for supported smart TV platforms, but KTLA.com, YouTube and an over-the-air antenna provide other ways to watch KTLA programming.

• Apple Passwords vs. Bitwarden: Silvanna asks whether Apple Passwords is secure enough for an all-Apple household. Rich says it is a solid choice, while Bitwarden remains useful for people who want a free password manager that works across multiple platforms.

• Password managers and 2FA are essential: Rich recommends using unique passwords through a password manager and enabling two-factor authentication. Never give an authentication code to someone who unexpectedly calls or messages asking for it.

• OpenAI vs. ChatGPT explained: Neon asks whether OpenAI will eventually replace ChatGPT. Rich explains that OpenAI is the company and ChatGPT is one of its products, similar to Google making Gemini and Anthropic making Claude.

• Charter and Cox complete their merger: Former Cox customers do not need to take immediate action, but Spectrum products begin rolling out in Cox markets in mid-September. Changes include a free year of Spectrum Mobile for eligible internet customers, automatic credits for outages over two hours, expanded U.S.-based support and SportsNet LA for former Cox TV customers.

• Peacock raises prices again: Peacock Premium with ads is increasing to $13 a month, Premium Plus to $20 and Peacock Select to $9. Existing subscribers will begin seeing the higher prices after September 17, depending on their billing date.

• Protect your hearing at concerts: Joe asks about hearing protection after being seated near extremely loud speakers. Rich recommends high-fidelity concert earplugs such as Vibes or Loop to lower the volume while preserving sound quality.

• ChatGPT adds protections for teens: ChatGPT is introducing a teen experience for ages 13 to 17 with stronger safety defaults, study-focused features, parental controls and protections designed to reduce emotional dependence on AI.

• How scammers defeat two-factor authentication: Matt asks how criminals can get around 2FA. A common trick is to steal a password, trigger a legitimate authentication code and then impersonate the bank or service to convince the victim to read the code aloud.

• Free VPN options: Mike in Ventura wants a good free VPN. Rich recommends Proton VPN and also points to VPN options from Firefox and Opera; for a paid service, Rich likes Surfshark, a newsletter sponsor.

• Sticking with Windows 10: David dislikes Windows 11 and wants to keep using Windows 10. Rich warns that unsupported operating systems eventually lose security and software compatibility, but experienced users may still find Windows 10 hardware or reinstall it while accepting those risks.

• Fake IRS crypto letters: Scammers are mailing official-looking letters claiming recipients need to enroll in an IRS digital asset compliance portal. The IRS has no such portal, and QR codes in the letters can lead to sites designed to steal personal or cryptocurrency information.

• AI is making scams more convincing: Steve Weisman, founder of Scamicide, says AI is helping criminals create polished phishing messages, voice clones and highly personalized scams. His core advice is to distrust unexpected communications and independently verify requests before clicking, downloading or sharing information.

• Secure your home router: Weisman recommends changing default router passwords, keeping router software updated and considering newer hardware that receives automatic security updates.

• Beware fake customer service numbers: Scammers can manipulate search results or buy ads that display bogus support numbers. Instead of trusting the first search result, find customer service information directly from a company’s official website, app or bill.

• Incogni plans compared: Alex asks which Incogni plan to choose. Rich says the higher-tier Unlimited plan adds broader removal coverage, custom removal requests and phone support, making it more comprehensive for people who want maximum data removal.

• Building a smart tiki bar: Bob in Beaumont wants thunder, rain, lightning and rumbling effects on demand in his home tiki bar. Rich suggests combining smart lighting, audio automation and Flic buttons to trigger the scene, and also mentions LiquidView digital windows.

• Recovering a locked Windows laptop: Milton has been locked out of a laptop for two years and no longer has access to the email address or phone number associated with it. Because the files are important, Rich recommends trying Microsoft account recovery first, then consulting a reputable repair or data-recovery service rather than wiping the computer.

• Drone delivery expands rapidly: Amazon says Prime Air will expand from 11 locations to hundreds of cities and towns, while Uber Eats and Zipline are also preparing broader drone delivery. Both are betting that everyday items and food can eventually arrive within minutes.

• Police drones become first responders: Flock is expanding beyond license plate cameras with drones that can automatically respond to 911 calls, reach scenes quickly and sometimes determine that an officer does not need to be dispatched.

• Medicare phone scam warning: Kathy received an unsolicited call asking whether she had received a new Medicare card. Rich says the unexpected call and abrupt hang-up are warning signs and advises never giving Medicare or personal information to unsolicited callers.

• FDA clears a blood-drawing robot: Aletta is a standalone robotic system that uses infrared and ultrasound to locate a vein, insert the needle, collect blood, dispose of the needle and apply a bandage. One professional can oversee multiple machines at once.

• Pixel 11 focuses on useful AI: Myriam Joire, host of the Mobile Tech Podcast, joins Rich to discuss Google’s Pixel 11 lineup. Both highlight practical features such as Rambler voice-to-text and Magic Capture, which uses AI to find the best photos and clips from a captured moment.

• Who should upgrade to Pixel 11: Joire says Pixel 10 owners probably do not need to upgrade, while Pixel 8 or 9 users have a stronger case. The standard Pixel 11 offers most of the important software features, while serious mobile gamers may prefer phones with faster processors.

• Electronics stores still exist: Listeners recommend independent electronics shops including Marvac in Costa Mesa, JK Electronics in Westminster, Armies Electronics in Ohio and Elliott Electronic Supply in Tucson, along with amateur radio “hamfests” for components and equipment.

• Fake CAPTCHA attacks can install malware: Kathleen encountered a bogus Cloudflare-style verification page that instructed her to type commands into her computer, resulting in a Trojan infection. Never follow unusual instructions from a CAPTCHA that ask you to run commands or paste code.

• Windows Snipping Tool can copy stubborn text: Phil points out that Windows 11’s Snipping Tool can extract text from screenshots and other places where normal copy-and-paste does not work.

• Update a full iPhone using a computer: Robert discovered that an iPhone without enough free storage for an iOS update may still be updated through a Mac or Windows PC, avoiding the need to offload apps that might no longer be available.

• Hide trackers inside valuable items: Gary recommends concealing AirTags inside luggage, briefcases or shipped packages rather than leaving them somewhere a thief can easily spot and remove.

• Leaving an Apple Podcasts review: Jane asks how to review Rich on Tech. On an iPhone, find the show in Apple Podcasts, scroll to Ratings & Reviews, tap “Write a Review” and submit it.

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

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If your inbox has more junk than messages you actually want to read, deleting spam isn’t enough. There are a few simple things you can do that may help reduce how much shows up in the first place.

First, use the Report spam or Junk button instead of just hitting delete. That gives your email provider another signal to recognize similar messages and hopefully keep them out of your inbox in the future.

When it comes to unsubscribing, use a little common sense. If it’s a legitimate company or newsletter you recognize, go ahead and hit unsubscribe. But if the message came out of nowhere or looks suspicious, don’t click anything and don’t reply. Engaging with a sketchy email can confirm that your address is active.

Another setting to check is automatic image loading. Some marketing emails contain tiny tracking images that can tell the sender when you opened the message. Turning off automatic image loading can limit that kind of tracking. It might be annoying to toggle on images in important emails to see them, but I think it’s worth the tradeoff.

Going forward, I’m also a big fan of email aliases. Apple’s Hide My Email and services like Alias.email let you create a different address for shopping, newsletters and website sign-ups while still forwarding messages to your regular inbox. If one of those addresses starts getting bombarded with spam, you can simply shut it down.

If you use Gmail, check out Manage subscriptions in the sidebar. It brings many of your subscription emails together in one place and makes it easier to unsubscribe from the ones you no longer want.

And here’s my pro tip: create a filter that looks for the word “unsubscribe” and automatically adds a bright red label like “UNSUBSCRIBE ELIGIBLE.” Now every time one of those emails arrives, you get a visual reminder that you probably don’t need to keep getting it.

The goal isn’t necessarily inbox zero. It’s making sure more of what lands in your inbox is actually worth your attention.

Watch Rich on Tech Weekly streaming Sundays at 11 a.m. on the free KTLA+ app, also available on demand on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV and Samsung smart TVs.

Subscribe to the Rich On Tech podcast to hear my full weekly radio show monologue, plus listener calls, interviews and tech tips.

You really can make a living playing video games. But after spending some time inside Team Liquid’s training facility in Santa Monica, it’s clear this is a lot closer to being a professional athlete than sitting around playing games for fun.

Team Liquid is one of the biggest esports organizations in the world, with professional players competing across a variety of games. According to Esports Earnings, the team ranks number one all-time in esports prize money, with more than $57 million won across roughly 3,000 tournaments.

I got a behind-the-scenes look at where some of those players train, and it’s definitely not the stereotypical bedroom or parents’ basement.

The Santa Monica facility is filled with high-end Alienware gaming computers, a live-streaming studio and plenty of dedicated spaces for players to practice. There’s also a kitchen serving three meals a day, along with coaches, analysts, physical therapists and sports psychologists.

That last part surprised me. The infrastructure around these players looks a lot like what you’d expect to find around a traditional professional sports team.

During my visit, Team Liquid’s World of Warcraft players were preparing for the “Race to World First,” a competition where teams race to be the first to complete a newly released challenge in the game.

And the schedule is intense. One player told me that during the roughly two-week competition, they can play as much as 15 hours a day. Winning requires not only quick reflexes and deep knowledge of the game, but also near-perfect communication and teamwork.

Of course, there’s a huge difference between being good at video games and being good enough to get paid for it. Team Liquid says only a tiny fraction of gamers ever reach this level.

I asked one player for the closest thing to a cheat code for getting better. His advice was simple: play a lot, but don’t just play. You have to constantly think about what you can improve.

That might be the biggest difference between gaming for fun and gaming professionally. At this level, playing the game is the job.

KTLA.COM

Here’s what I mentioned on The Woody Show on Tuesday, August 18, 2026!

Don’t Pay Full Price for NFL Sunday Ticket

Before paying full price for NFL Sunday Ticket, check for deals. Verizon has an offer that can get eligible customers the 2026 season free, and there are also discounts for military members, veterans, first responders, teachers, medical professionals and students.

Sunday Ticket deals

Scams Are Getting Way More Convincing

Data breaches give scammers more information about you, while AI helps them create convincing emails, texts and even cloned voices. Watch for urgency, slow down and always verify suspicious requests independently. A secret family codeword can also help protect against voice-clone scams.

Scam protection

Your AI Chats Aren’t as Private as You Think

People share incredibly personal information with AI chatbots. ChatGPT, Gemini and other services have privacy controls that can limit how your conversations are used to improve their AI models. For anything truly confidential, think twice before putting it into any chatbot.

AI privacy settings

I Took a Ride in a Solar-Powered Car

The Aptera is a futuristic three-wheeled EV covered in solar panels. The company says its full solar setup can add up to about 40 miles of driving per day under ideal conditions, and you can still plug it in like a traditional EV. The vehicle is still undergoing testing and validation.

Aptera

Samsung’s New Foldable Phone Is a Hit

Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold is thinner, lighter and feels much more like a normal phone when closed. Open it up and you get a tablet-sized screen for apps and multitasking. Foldables are getting increasingly practical, especially with Apple widely expected to enter the category.

Samsung foldables

Be Careful on Hotel Wi-Fi

Attackers have targeted hotel and conference Wi-Fi systems with fake login pages and bogus update prompts. If hotel Wi-Fi ever asks you to download software, install an update or press unusual keyboard shortcuts, disconnect and use your phone’s hotspot instead.

Hotel Wi-Fi warning

An E-Ink Phone Case You Can Change on Demand

The EXREM Inno phone case uses an e-ink display on the back, letting you change its design without changing the actual case. It’s a fun way to personalize your phone whenever you want a different look.

E-ink phone case

A Better Way to Rescue a Wet Phone

Forget the old bag-of-rice trick. The UAG Dryout reusable rescue pouch is designed to pull moisture out of a wet phone and give it a better chance of surviving an accidental dunk.

Wet phone rescue pouch

I’m always looking for accessories that make the gadgets I already own a little more useful. Lately, I’ve been testing three that do something genuinely different, including a phone case that can change its appearance in seconds.

The Xtreme Inno case has an E Ink screen built into the back. Using its app, you can choose a photo or design, crop it and send it wirelessly to the case. NFC handles the transfer, and once the image is there, the case doesn’t need a battery or charging to keep displaying it.

I found changing the image quick and easy. You could put a favorite photo on there, match the case to your mood or just change it whenever you get bored. The iPhone 17 version is about $70.

Another accessory caught my attention because it solves a problem we all dread: a wet phone.

The $35 UAG Dryout Pouch is basically a reusable drying bag for electronics. Instead of tossing your phone into a bowl of rice, the pouch uses special materials designed to pull moisture away from your device and trap it. Afterward, you can let the pouch dry out, including in the sun, and use it again.

Of course, most modern smartphones already have decent water resistance, and this isn’t going to magically revive a phone with serious water damage. But for lingering moisture after a spill, rain or a particularly humid day, it’s a handy thing to have around.

Finally, there’s the Twelve South Valet, which attempts to solve another modern problem: the pile of stuff we empty from our pockets every night.

It’s a leather catch-all tray with a Qi2 wireless charger built in. Put your phone on top to charge, then toss your keys, wallet and other everyday items into the tray. There’s also a USB-C port underneath for charging a second device.

The catch is the price. At $130, you’re definitely paying for the luxe design, and there’s no dedicated Apple Watch charging spot. Still, I like the idea of having one place where everything goes at the end of the day.

• Scam protection: Slow down, stop the conversation, and independently verify requests before sending money, sharing codes, or installing software.

• Family code words: Set up a private family code word to …

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Hard to believe the kids are already back in school. When I was growing up, school didn’t start until after Labor Day, which always felt like the official end of summer. We’d usually squeeze in one last trip over the holiday weekend, then it was back to business.

Now, it feels like school starts earlier every year. Anyway, the kids are back at it, and so are we.

Last weekend, I got caught up in the latest Verizon outage. I first noticed when I couldn’t reach my wife and assumed something was wrong with the Google Fi line I’ve been testing. Then I checked my Verizon phone and saw zero bars. A quick look at DownDetector confirmed it: Verizon was down.

The outage lasted most of the day, apparently after vandals cut a fiber line. It’s a good reminder not to immediately start changing phone settings when service disappears. Check DownDetector, check social media, and make sure Wi-Fi Calling is set up before you need it.

Google Pixel 11: The smartest phone gets smarter

The big tech news of the week is from Google, which held its annual Made by Google event in New York City. Last year, Jimmy Fallon hosted the late-night talk show-style event. This year it was Trevor Noah, and I watched from the comfort of my home. Google sent me a Pixel 11 Pro, so I’ve been putting it through its paces.

I’ll preface all of this by saying the Pixel is pretty much my ideal smartphone. I love the software and the hardware design. It’s the specs that tend to let me down every year.

That’s mostly a power-user complaint. For the average person, I think the Pixel 10a is one of the best values out there. If you want the best combination of accessories, support and service, I’d probably steer you toward the base iPhone 17.

But I still think the Pixel is the smartest smartphone. It just works the way I want a phone to work. Things take fewer steps, notifications are proactive, and Google has built in some excellent protections against scams. My issue is that Pixels have always felt a little underpowered compared with the latest iPhones and Samsung flagships.

This year’s hardware is mostly a polish job. The Pixel 11 gets a new Tensor G6 processor, a new security chip, faster wireless charging, a new 48-megapixel main camera and 256 gigabytes of storage to start.

The Pro models get a brighter, more scratch-resistant display, improved cameras, a better 5x optical zoom lens with up to 120x AI-assisted zoom, and faster wired and wireless charging. There are new colors, too, including the all-matte Obsidian finish on my review unit.

Google also cut the RAM on the entry-level Pro models from 16 gigs to 12. RAM is basically the phone’s short-term memory, and less of it isn’t exactly what I want to see on a phone I already consider underpowered.

There’s also a new feature called HiLight, a glowing LED on the back of the phone. The idea is that you can leave the phone face down and still see when something important is happening. Right now, it can light up for certain important contacts and when you’re interacting with Gemini.

It reminds me of the lights we’ve had for years on smart speakers, which glow to let you know the assistant is listening or responding. Google is essentially bringing that idea to the phone.

There’s also an updated foldable that’s lighter, thinner and more durable. And all of the phones get seven years of software updates.

But Pixel has never really been about the hardware. It’s about the software, and increasingly, AI.

One of the most interesting new features is Magic Capture. Think of it as Google’s version of Samsung’s Single Take. You hold the phone around chest level and let it record what’s happening. The phone then analyzes hundreds of frames and pulls out interesting moments as photos and short clips. The idea is that instead of watching your kid’s first steps through a screen, you can point the phone in the general direction and let AI figure out the best shots afterward.

For creators, Google added a built-in teleprompter to the camera app, which I love, along with audio levels while you’re recording. The phones can also translate video and audio in real time. Listen to a podcast in German when you only speak English, and the Pixel can translate it for you.

Then there’s agentic AI, the industry’s latest obsession. The idea is that Gemini can actually do things for you, like order groceries, grab you a coffee or book a ride. I’m still not convinced that, at this point, asking AI to do these things is any faster than just doing them yourself.

One feature I’m much more excited about is called Rambler. If you’ve heard me rave about AI voice-to-text tools like Wispr Flow, this is basically that technology built right into the phone. Instead of traditional dictation just transcribing your words, AI understands the context and cleans everything up before putting it into the text field.

The one downside is that you don’t see the words appear in real time like you do with traditional dictation.

I’m still testing the Pixel 11 Pro to see what I like, what I don’t and whether it could actually become my daily driver. I’ll keep you posted.

The Pixel 11 starts at $899, which is $100 more than last year, although you’re now getting 256 GB of storage. The Pixel 11 Pro starts at $1,099, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold starts at $1,899. Preorders are open now, with the phones arriving August 20.

And I’ll say it again: I absolutely love the Pixel software. I think it’s the best software experience on any smartphone. My concern continues to be whether Google’s processor and battery life can keep pace with Apple and Samsung.

Does your family have a secret code word?

When I was a kid, we had one for stranger danger. If my parents couldn’t pick us up from school and sent someone else, that person had to know the family code word. If they didn’t, we knew not to go with them.

That same old-school idea is useful again because of AI voice-cloning scams. The BBC highlighted a case where a mother got a terrifying call that sounded exactly like her teenage son, supposedly saying he was in danger. It wasn’t him. Scammers had cloned his voice.

That’s where a family code word can help. If someone calls claiming a loved one has been hurt, arrested or needs money urgently, ask for the code word. A scammer may be able to fake a voice, but they probably don’t know your family secret.

The key is to choose something easy for your family to remember but hard for anyone else to guess, and actually practice using it. It’s a very simple, very old-fashioned defense against a very modern scam.

Sponsored: The app that catches AI scams before they reach you

AI-powered scams are getting really convincing. Fake texts, fake voicemails and even live calls can now sound legitimate.

I’ve been testing Savi, an app designed to help filter and flag scams across calls and messages. I like that much of it works quietly in the background, and one plan can cover your family at no extra cost.

Here’s what it does:

Text Protection: On iPhone, Savi automatically filters suspected spam and scam texts.

Voicemail Screening: When an unknown number calls, Savi can take the message, identify the caller, summarize the voicemail and filter out junk.

Savi On-Call: If a live call feels suspicious, you can add Savi to the call like a third participant. It listens silently and alerts you in real time if it detects signs of a scam.

Scamwise: Got a strange email, text, website or other suspicious message? Run it through Scamwise for a quick second opinion.

Special offer for Rich on Tech readers: Try Savi free, then save 50% on your first year of Premium, bringing the price from $62.99 to $31.50 for the year, or $2.63 a month billed annually. You can also add family members at no extra cost.

Get 50% off: savisecurity.com/richontech

California’s free data deletion program is now working

For my California readers, a reminder about DROP, the state’s free program that lets you request deletion of your personal information from hundreds of data brokers.

Deletions began August 1, and I recently sat down with Tom Kemp, who oversees the program at CalPrivacy, to get an update on how it’s working.

One of the biggest questions I’ve heard is about privacy. If you give DROP your information, are you essentially handing it over to data brokers? Kemp says no. The system uses hashed, or scrambled, versions of your information. Data brokers compare that scrambled data against their own scrambled records, and only matching records are identified for deletion. They don’t just receive a readable list of everyone who signed up.

So far, more than 500,000 Californians have enrolled, and more than 8 million records have already been deleted. The program is completely free.

I also asked how DROP compares with paid data-removal services. You can use both. A paid service can be more hands-on, show you more detail about what’s being removed, handle custom requests and continue checking for new listings over time.

But DROP has one major advantage paid services don’t: enforcement. If a registered data broker doesn’t comply with California’s deletion requirements, the state can take action and impose penalties.

The trade-off is that DROP is only available to California residents.

Tech Tips

I’m loving a new feature called Ask YouTube. Think of it as AI search for the information buried inside YouTube videos. You can ask about travel advice, product recommendations, recipes and just about anything else creators have covered. The feature is a little hidden and isn’t available to everyone yet. On a desktop, click inside the YouTube search box and look for the Ask YouTube option. If you see it, you can start asking questions instead of hunting through individual videos.

Another feature I’ve rediscovered is Chrome’s Send to Your Devices. If you’re looking at a webpage on your computer and want it on your phone, you don’t need to text or email yourself the link. Add the Send to Your Devices button to Chrome’s toolbar, choose one of your signed-in devices, and the page gets sent there as a notification. One caveat: on iPhone, the notification may not appear until you open Chrome.

And one more from fellow newsletter writer Jared Newman. I’m already a big fan of SimplyCodes.com for finding coupon and promo codes, but he pointed out another option: Reddit Answers. It uses AI to dig through Reddit conversations and surface useful answers. Since Reddit users are constantly swapping deals and promo codes, it’s worth trying if you’re hunting for a discount and coming up empty elsewhere.

Tech Tidbits

Not all USB-C cables are created equal. Here’s a useful primer on what to look for depending on whether you want faster charging, faster data transfers or both.

The Apple TV streaming service (paid) just added a bunch of movies you can stream for free, including The Martian, E.T., Zoolander, Titanic and more.

Samsung’s Galaxy Buds can now function as hearing aids, similar to the hearing assistance features available on Apple’s AirPods.

And here’s a great roundup of essential apps for PCs and Macs.

Q & A: Is there a free alternative to GoodSync for syncing files?

Ray asks: I used to use AllwaySync to sync files between my desktop and an external backup drive. I recently got a new laptop, but AllwaySync is now GoodSync, and I really don’t like the new interface.

Can you recommend something free or inexpensive that will sync files between my laptop and external drive?

Try FreeFileSync. It’s free and designed specifically for comparing and synchronizing folders and drives, so it’s a good option if you want to keep an external backup drive in sync without paying for a subscription.

Feedbag

Vicki in Rockford, Michigan writes:

I love all of the tips in your weekly newsletters that arrive in my mailbox on Saturdays.

Today on my local news channel, WOOD TV8, you were featured in our 12 o’clock news! I’m so happy your timely advice is reaching so many people. Congratulations.

Vicki, I’m so glad you caught my segment in Michigan! I’m based in Los Angeles, but Rich on Tech is syndicated to stations around the country.

I don’t mention that much because what matters to me is making tech useful, understandable and helpful.

But… while we’re on the topic of me, I’ve noticed the reviews for the Rich on Tech podcast on Apple Podcasts have gotten a little stale.

If you listen to the show and enjoy it, I’d really appreciate it if you took a minute to leave a rating and review. It helps new listeners discover the show and lets me know what you’re enjoying.

That’s going to do it for this week’s newsletter. Thanks so much for reading, watching and, of course, listening.

My radio show is live Saturdays at 11 a.m. Pacific on KFI AM 640. Listen on the radio or stream anywhere with the iHeartRadio app. You can also catch the replay Sunday nights at 8 p.m. Eastern on 710 WOR in New York, or subscribe to the podcast and listen anytime.

Rich

Want the commercial-free, higher-quality audio version? VIP newsletter subscribers can listen here.

Rich talked through the warning signs of the most common scams he’s hearing about today.

Robin in Northridge says she got calendar spam with a PayPal transaction she didn’t make.

Pat in Buena Park is getting rid of her old email and switching to Gmail and wants to import her old messages.

Rich talked about the importance of a secret family codeword to thwart voice cloning scams.

Don in Missouri loves to use Microsoft Publisher and it’s going away. Rich recommends Word or Canva as a replacement and don’t discount ChatGPT for some posters and flyers, too.

Kate O’Neill, the “Tech Humanist” and former Netflix executive, explains why making AI seem more human can lead us to trust it too much, and shares practical ways consumers can use AI without giving up their own judgment.

Rick Broida, longtime consumer tech writer and creator of the Deal Secrets newsletter, will explain how AirTag alternatives compare, which ones cost less, and what shoppers should know before buying.

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.

Disclosure: I may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this post, at no additional cost to you.

If you’re chatting with AI about work, money, relationships or anything else you’d rather keep private, it’s good to know what happens to those conversations after you hit send.

On many consumer AI services, your chats can be saved and, depending on your settings, used to help improve future AI models. In some cases, conversations may also be reviewed by humans.

The good news is you can limit this.

On ChatGPT, go to Settings > Data Controls and turn off Improve the model for everyone. Your chats can still remain in your history, but they won’t be used to train future models.

For conversations you don’t want in your history, use Temporary Chat. These chats aren’t used for training, although OpenAI may retain a copy for up to 30 days for safety purposes.

Claude has a similar control. Go to Settings > Privacy and turn off the option to help improve its AI models. Claude also offers an Incognito mode for conversations you don’t want saved to your chat history.

With Google Gemini, look under Settings > Activity. Turning off Gemini Apps Activity limits how your future chats are stored and used. You can also set activity to automatically delete after three months, 18 months or three years.

Gemini also offers Temporary Chat. Those conversations don’t appear in your activity or get used to train Google’s AI models, although Google says it keeps them for up to 72 hours for safety.

Meta is a little different because its AI is woven into Facebook and Instagram. Meta can use publicly shared posts, comments and photos to help train its AI. One of the simplest ways to limit exposure is to make your account and posts private and review the AI options in Meta’s Privacy Center.

Microsoft Copilot also gives you a way to opt out of conversation training. On Copilot.com, Microsoft may show a notice right on the homepage letting you know your conversation activity can help train its AI, along with a direct opt-out link. If you don’t see that, tap your profile picture in the lower-left corner, then go to Settings > Privacy and turn off Training on conversation activity.

My biggest takeaway is simple: I wouldn’t treat any consumer AI chatbot like a completely private conversation. Before typing something highly personal, confidential or proprietary, think about whether it really needs to be shared with an AI at all.

One important exception is work and enterprise accounts. These often come with stronger privacy protections and typically don’t use your conversations to train public AI models by default. But check with your employer before you mistakenly divulge any corporate secrets.

And for everyday use, take a few minutes to check your AI privacy settings. It’s one of those things that’s easy to set once and forget.

KTLA.COM

Should you lease your next iPhone?

Rich looks at Apple’s new device leasing option through Klarna and explains why the low monthly payment may not be the best deal for everyone.

Samsung unveils its new foldable phones

Samsung introduced three new foldables in London, including two Fold models and an updated Flip, with improvements to durability, charging and everyday usability.

Aptera’s solar-powered EV

Rich takes a ride in Aptera’s futuristic three-wheel electric vehicle, which uses integrated solar panels to add driving range from the sun.

Meta smart glasses help people with vision loss

The Braille Institute is teaching people who are blind or have low vision how to use Meta’s AI-powered smart glasses for reading, navigation and everyday visual assistance.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 hands-on review

After using Samsung’s latest foldables around London, Rich shares what works, what still needs improvement and how the Fold 8 compares with the Fold 8 Ultra.

Watch Rich on Tech Weekly streaming Sundays at 11 a.m. on the free KTLA+ app, also available on demand on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV and Samsung smart TVs.

Subscribe to the Rich On Tech podcast to hear my full weekly radio show monologue, plus listener calls, interviews and tech tips.

• 03:04 — Hotel Wi-Fi attacks target travelers: Hackers linked to Russia are targeting hotel and conference Wi-Fi login systems and redirecting users to convincing fake update or security pages. Rich says pu…

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If you can believe it, my wife and I celebrated our 21st anniversary this week - a big milestone. We’ve shared so many special moments, and she has been by my side through nearly every step of my career.

She’s a great teammate. I especially admire her ability to think through situat…

Read more

OFFICIAL SITE TO SIGN UP: https://privacy.ca.gov/drop/

I got an update on California’s new DROP system, which recently went live with deletions, and the early numbers show just how much interest there is in getting personal information off the internet.

Tom Kemp, Executive Director of the California Privacy Protection Agency, told me that more than 400,000 Californians have already signed up for DROP, with roughly 15,000 to 20,000 more people registering each day.

And the deletions have started. In the first days of processing, more than 8 million records have already been deleted, according to Kemp.

DROP stands for Delete Request and Opt-out Platform. It gives Californians one place to tell hundreds of registered data brokers to delete the personal information they’ve collected about them.

These aren’t necessarily companies you’ve ever done business with directly. Data brokers collect, combine, and sell information about consumers, sometimes building detailed profiles that can include contact information, online activity, location, purchases, and other personal details.

The official website is privacy.ca.gov. That .gov ending is important since scammers could easily try to imitate a service like this.

I asked Kemp about one of the biggest concerns I’ve heard: Aren’t you handing even more personal information over by signing up?

He says the system was designed to avoid that problem. The information submitted to DROP is protected using hashing, which converts it into a secured string of characters. Data brokers run their own information through the same process and only learn there’s a match when they already have information associated with that person. If there is a match, they’re required to delete the data and report that back through the system.

You can submit basic information including your name, email addresses, phone numbers, date of birth and current or previous ZIP codes. There are also optional identifiers, including your phone’s Mobile Advertising ID, vehicle identification number and connected TV ID, which can help identify information held by brokers that track things like location, driving or viewing habits.

The potential benefit is simple: less personal information floating around means less information available for scammers, identity thieves and anyone else looking to build a convincing profile about you.

There are already paid services that contact data brokers on your behalf, and you can still use those alongside DROP. But California’s system is free and currently covers more than 650 registered data brokers.

There is also some enforcement behind it. Kemp told me brokers that fail to comply with deletion requirements can face fines of $200 per day, per California resident.

If you live in California and haven’t signed up yet, privacy.ca.gov is worth a few minutes. The most important part now is that DROP is no longer just collecting requests, the actual deleting has begun.

KTLA.COM

Want the commercial-free, higher-quality audio version? VIP newsletter subscribers can listen here.

03:04 — Hotel Wi-Fi attacks target travelers: Hackers linked to Russia are targeting hotel and conference Wi-Fi login systems and redirecting users to convincing fake update or security pages. Rich says public Wi-Fi is still usable, but never install software or enter authentication codes because a captive portal tells you to. Use cellular or a hotspot for sensitive activity.

10:04 — Wendy in Yorba Linda gets unwanted Chrome pop-ups: Her OnePlus 11 keeps opening game websites even after clearing Chrome data. Rich recommends removing unfamiliar or unused apps, checking Chrome notification permissions for rogue websites, updating Android, and installing the latest Google Play system update before considering a factory reset.

15:12 — NFL Sunday Ticket discounts can cut the cost: Verizon customers, students, military members, veterans, first responders, teachers and healthcare workers may qualify for substantial discounts. Rich recommends checking eligibility before paying the roughly $500 full-season price.

17:31 — Cyberattacks expose weaknesses in U.S. water systems: Scott Edwards, CEO of Summit 7, says many small water utilities have internet-connected industrial controllers with weak security, including default passwords and exposed ports. Recent attacks have affected systems in multiple states, highlighting how limited cybersecurity resources can leave critical infrastructure vulnerable.

26:56 — Google Assistant is being replaced by Gemini: Google plans to begin removing the classic Assistant from Android phones September 4, with Gemini becoming the default and no option to switch back. Gemini handles conversations and complex requests better, but some traditional Assistant and smart-home functions may not work the same way.

29:09 — Rick in Torrance asks Chrome or Safari on a Mac: Rich prefers Chrome for its extensions, compatibility and Enhanced Safe Browsing protection, while Safari offers stronger privacy protections by default and is optimized for Apple hardware. The best choice ultimately depends on which features matter most.

35:08 — Google Maps and YouTube get smarter AI search: Ask Maps can handle highly specific searches for restaurants, hotels, transit and other recommendations, while Ask YouTube can surface information buried inside videos. Rich says these AI-powered searches make it much easier to find specific recommendations without manually sorting through countless results.

38:21 — Sarah in Northridge is overwhelmed by spam email: Rich recommends reporting junk as spam, avoiding unsubscribe links in suspicious messages, disabling automatic image loading and using email aliases such as alias.email or Apple’s Hide My Email. Gmail users can also use Manage Subscriptions to quickly find and remove unwanted legitimate mailing lists.

45:17 — Roger refuses to give up his OBiTALK adapter: Roger has used the discontinued OBiTALK device for years to turn Google Voice into a free home phone line. Despite no longer receiving support or firmware updates, his adapter continues to provide incoming and outgoing calls without a monthly phone bill.

48:13 — Benny shops for his first 3D printer: While shopping at Micro Center, Benny considers an Elegoo printer instead of a Bambu Lab model. Rich says modern 3D printers have become much easier to use, with Bambu helping push the category toward a more consumer-friendly experience.

51:55 — California’s DROP privacy system begins deleting personal data: Tom Kemp of the California Privacy Protection Agency says more than 650 data brokers must periodically check DROP requests and delete matching information. The free service is for California residents, uses security measures including hashing, and can help reduce the amount of personal information circulating among data brokers.

55:37 — DROP goes beyond basic contact information: Californians can optionally provide identifiers tied to their phones, vehicles and connected TVs to reach brokers that track location, driving and viewing habits. Kemp says more than 400,000 Californians had signed up, with roughly 15,000 to 20,000 new registrations per day.

1:01:39 — ChatGPT expands free access: ChatGPT is lifting previous text-chat usage limits for free users, while limits still apply to more compute-intensive features such as images and files. Paid users continue to receive access to more capable models and features.

1:03:33 — Faith in Anaheim wants to stop a daily spam caller: Rich walks her through the iPhone settings to block the persistent number. Blocking it should prevent future calls, messages and FaceTime attempts from that contact.

1:09:30 — Samsung’s latest foldables feel more mature: After testing the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra, Rich says Samsung has hit its stride with thinner, lighter and more practical designs, although prices remain high. The smaller Fold 8 stands out for its wider, more pocketable form factor.

1:11:58 — Rich settles on Evernote and Notion for notes: Evernote remains his choice for professional radio and TV work, while Notion is handling personal information because it works across iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac. Notion AI’s ability to search across stored notes is a major advantage.

1:15:02 — Connected AI apps can become a productivity hub: Rich says one of ChatGPT’s most useful capabilities is connecting it with services such as Gmail, Google Calendar, Notion, Spotify and other apps. That allows users to search information and complete tasks across multiple services from a single conversation.

1:17:10 — Yvonne in Lake Forest considers an Instagram MP3 player: Rich advises against buying a generic iPod-style player advertised on social media and suggests a genuine refurbished iPod from Retrospekt instead. Either way, existing CDs still need to be ripped to digital files before they can be loaded onto the device.

1:20:56 — Scott in Texas has a mysterious location problem: Multiple Windows computers at his home incorrectly place him at a specific address in Washington, even after changing internet providers and resetting devices. Rich suggests reviewing Windows location and privacy settings but says the unusual case remains unresolved.

1:28:19 — Meta AI glasses provide accessibility benefits: Rich highlights the positive side of Meta’s AI glasses for accessibility, including how blind and low-vision users at the Braille Institute use them to read mail and menus, describe surroundings, translate text and connect with Be My Eyes volunteers. The technology can provide greater independence despite broader privacy concerns surrounding camera-equipped glasses.

1:31:44 — Gig workers are getting paid to train robots: Aaron Bromberg, head of robotics at Instawork, explains that workers can record themselves performing everyday tasks such as folding laundry, washing dishes and mopping floors. Robotics companies use this first-person demonstration data to teach AI-powered robots physical tasks that cannot be learned simply by reading text or watching ordinary videos.

1:37:42 — Robots may reach workplaces before homes: Bromberg expects broader robot deployment to begin in commercial environments such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities, particularly for repetitive tasks. Consumer household robots are also being developed, but widespread adoption is likely further away.

1:39:12 — Bob Ross paintings are coming to LG TVs: LG is adding Bob Ross landscapes to its Gallery Plus art service, while nearly 400 episodes of The Joy of Painting are available through a free Bob Ross streaming channel on LG TVs.

1:40:16 — Listeners share ways to save on wireless and streaming: One listener suggests Connect by T-Mobile as a lower-cost option for customers facing plan increases, while another combines benefits from Amazon Prime, Walmart+, Comcast and T-Mobile to get several streaming services at little additional cost.

1:40:46 — Listeners debate Apple’s iPhone leasing model: Some listeners point out that buying out a zero-interest lease can ultimately equal the phone’s retail price, while others worry that device rentals push consumers further away from owning their technology outright.

1:42:07 — Voice assistants can accidentally connect callers with scammers: A listener says a senior asked Siri to call a bank, but the assistant dialed an unrelated number and connected them with someone pretending to be legitimate. Rich recommends using the number printed on a bank card or listed on the institution’s official website rather than trusting search results or voice assistants for sensitive calls.

1:45:28 — Beware of look-alike apps: A listener thought she downloaded Google’s Nano Banana photo tool but instead subscribed to an unrelated app with a similar name. Rich recommends following official links rather than searching an app store for a product name, where imitators can be easy to mistake for the real thing.

1:46:28 — A listener successfully cuts the cord: After switching from cable-style television to streaming, one listener liked the setup enough to help his 80-year-old parents make the same change. The family says the switch has been worthwhile even after upgrading their internet service.

Listen to the entire show here. Want the commercial-free, higher-quality audio version? VIP newsletter subscribers can listen here.

I also corrected Retrospekt to the spelling used by the company and linked it directly.

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.

Disclosure: I may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this post, at no additional cost to you.

After spending time with Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, I now think something I haven’t said about previous foldables: these finally feel ready for everyday use.

Samsung brought me to London for their launch, where I spent a day sightseeing with both phones in my pocket. While the company is offering two versions this year, it’s the standard Fold 8 that really surprised me.

It’s lighter, easier to hold, and the wider front display makes everyday tasks much more comfortable than previous Samsung foldables. I could quickly check email, send messages, and browse the web without immediately feeling like I needed to unfold the phone. The only downside is that some apps, especially social media, don’t always scale perfectly to the unusual aspect ratio. I also found when they keyboard is on screen it can get a little cramped.

Open it up, though, and that’s where the experience really shines. The large inside display is fantastic for reading, watching videos, and multitasking. I found myself running multiple apps side by side far more often than I expected because it was so convenient.

Performance was excellent throughout my testing. Everything felt fast and polished, and battery life got me through the day. Samsung also made the phones easier to open, and the side mounted fingerprint reader is exactly where your thumb expects it to be.

The cameras are solid, even if they aren’t Samsung’s absolute best. The dual 50 megapixel system on the Fold 8 is more than capable for everyday photos. One feature I especially enjoyed is My FanCam, which can automatically create a video that follows a single person in a group. I immediately thought about parents using it to make highlight clips of their kids playing sports.

Samsung also improved the durability of the inside display with a new Flex Titanium layer and better anti reflective coatings. The crease is still there, but it’s not a big deal during daily use.

The Ultra model offers more advanced cameras and a hinge that stays open at virtually any angle, but it’s also taller, heavier, and its narrow outside screen still isn’t my favorite.

Neither phone has built in magnets for magnetic accessories, so you’ll need a case if that’s important to you. This, in turn, adds extra bulk, which is a disappointing on devices this thin.

These phones are expensive, starting around $1,900 for the Fold 8 and $2,100 for the Ultra. But if you’ve been waiting for foldables to feel less like an experiment and more like a phone you could actually live with every day, Samsung has made its strongest case yet.

Disclosure: I may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this post, at no additional cost to you.

Deals and trade-in offers

Starting today, Samsung.com customers can save up to $1,000 with an eligible trade-in on the latest foldables.

Galaxy Watch buyers can get up to $250 in instant trade-in credit, or a $50 Samsung credit without a trade-in.

Samsung says high demand is causing delivery delays for some popular Galaxy Z Fold8 configurations, including Lavender and Cream.

Additional offers include:

AT&T

• Up to $1,900 off Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra with activation on an AT&T Premium 2.0 plan or higher.

• Up to $1,000 off Galaxy Z Flip8, Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra with activation on an AT&T Extra 2.0 plan or higher and eligible trade-in.

• Get $100 off Galaxy Watch Ultra2 or Galaxy Watch9 with the purchase of a Samsung Galaxy Z Series phone.

• Save up to 50% on Samsung accessories with an eligible Samsung device purchase.

Amazon

• Save up to $1,000 with a qualifying trade-in, plus receive a $350 gift card with purchase.

• Save up to $900 on Galaxy Z Fold8 with a qualifying trade-in, plus receive a $350 gift card with purchase.

• Save up to $800 with a qualifying trade-in, plus receive a $200 gift card with purchase.

Best Buy

• Save up to $1,200 on the new Samsung Galaxy Z Series, bringing eligible models as low as $699.99 with qualifying trade-in.

• Save up to $250 with an eligible smartwatch trade-in.

T-Mobile

• Get $1,000 off Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra when activating a line on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. Available to new and existing customers.

• Save up to $1,900 with an eligible trade-in on an Experience Beyond plan. Available to new and existing customers.

• Get up to $430 off with a new watch line.

Verizon

• New customers who switch can get a Galaxy Z Fold8 with a 48-month device payment purchase.

• Save up to $430 with an eligible smartwatch trade-in. Select Plus plan required.

Offers and eligibility requirements vary by carrier and retailer.

Meta’s smart glasses were originally marketed as a way to take photos, listen to music and ask AI questions without pulling out your phone. But for people who are blind or have low vision, they are helping with something much more important: independence.

Recently, I visited the Braille Institute, where I met was Jeremy Hill, a social worker who is also living with vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. He wears the glasses every day to help identify signs, find objects, read documents and navigate the world around him.

That hands free experience is one of the biggest advantages. Instead of trying to juggle a phone while using a white cane, users can simply ask the glasses for help. The built in cameras, microphones and speakers let Meta AI describe what it’s seeing, read menus, explain prescription labels, translate printed text and even provide directions.

One newer feature, called Detailed Responses, offers much more context and detail about whatever is in front of the user.

The Braille Institute is now teaching students how to use these AI features as part of its accessibility training. The organization also received one of Meta’s AI Glasses Impact Grants, which will help expand classes and one on one instruction to more people.

Meta told me the idea for adding AI to the glasses actually came from a blind employee who recognized their potential early on. The company has also integrated Be My Eyes, which connects users with live volunteers when AI alone isn’t enough.

One thing that surprised me is how normal these glasses look. They don’t stand out as specialized assistive technology, and I think that’s part of what makes them so appealing. They blend into everyday life while quietly providing help when it’s needed.

The glasses start at about $300. While they certainly won’t replace every accessibility tool, after seeing them in action it’s clear they’re opening up new possibilities for people who want a little more confidence and independence in their daily lives.

Meta has also pledged to provide a free pair of the glasses to blind veterans in the U.S., expanding access to people who could benefit from the technology.

KTLA.COM

The regular standalone price for returning subscribers can reach $480, but there are a few ways to pay much less.

First, you do not need a YouTube TV subscription to get NFL Sunday Ticket. You can buy it as a standalone subscription and access it through the regular YouTube app using YouTube Primetime Channels. If you have YouTube TV, the service is integrated there, too.

The biggest deal is for some Verizon customers. If you’re buying an eligible phone on certain unlimited plans or signing up for qualifying Verizon Home Internet service, you may be able to get NFL Sunday Ticket included at no extra cost. Even if you don’t qualify for the free offer, existing Verizon customers can often purchase Sunday Ticket for $234, which is roughly half the regular standalone price.

College students have an even better option. Eligible students can subscribe for $119 after verifying their status through SheerID. Just keep in mind that the student plan only supports one stream at a time.

Military members, veterans, teachers, first responders and many healthcare workers can also save. After verifying eligibility through ID.me, the price drops to $198. If you want NFL RedZone as well, you can add it for another $42.

If you’ve never subscribed to NFL Sunday Ticket before, new customers can sign up for $240 whether they buy it through YouTube or add it to a YouTube TV subscription. Returning subscribers pay more, with prices starting around $378 through YouTube TV and $480 for the standalone version.

One final thing to know is that NFL Sunday Ticket only includes out-of-market Sunday afternoon games. You’ll still need access to your local channels, plus services that carry Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football and other nationally televised games.