Rich On Tech Episode 182 - July 11, 2026
Rich talked about how Meta reversed course on its controversial Muse AI image generation feature, which allowed people to create images using the likeness of public Instagram accounts.
Christine in Monterey, California wanted to know how to free up space used by the Samsung Messages app. Rich explained that you can long press the app icon, tap the “i” (App info), go to Storage, and clear the app’s cache to reclaim space without deleting your messages. If more space is needed, you can also clear the app’s data, but that will reset the app and may remove locally stored settings.
Rich discussed how DuckDuckGo now blocks YouTube ads by default when you watch videos through the DuckDuckGo browser, giving users a cleaner viewing experience without needing a separate ad blocker.
Susan asked whether she should consolidate her internet and phone service into a single AT&T plan. Rich recommended running a test at Speedtest.net before making the switch to verify that your internet connection is fast and reliable enough for everything you need. Confirm you have sufficient speed and consistent performance before bundling all of your services onto one connection.
James in San Diego wanted to print on transparency film. Rich recommended purchasing inkjet-compatible transparency sheets, which are widely available online, and using those with an inkjet printer for the best results.
Rich mentioned that Saldo wine features a distinctive embossed label that resembles the raised lettering produced by classic old-school label makers, giving the bottle a unique, vintage-inspired look.
Meredith, Thousand Oaks: Got a new router but couldn’t reconnect her Wi-Fi printer.
Rich’s tip: When replacing your router, keep the same Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password as your old one. Most smart home devices, printers, cameras, speakers, and other gadgets will reconnect automatically without needing to be set up again, saving a lot of time and frustration.
ChatGPT’s new Live Voice is much more natural. It supports full duplex conversations, so you can interrupt, change your mind, and talk over it naturally. It’s also better at understanding what you mean, making conversations feel much more human.
Marissa Strang, travel blogger and founder of The Marissa Daily, shares how technology can help travelers find deals, plan smarter trips, and discover unforgettable destinations on any budget.
Marissa’s favorite travel apps: Google Flights for airfare, Skyscanner to compare fares, TripIt to organize itineraries, Hopper to predict the best time to book, and XE Currency for quick exchange rate conversions while traveling.
One of the best travel apps, Flighty, has a new Connection Assistant feature that guides you through layovers with gate information, walking directions, connection timing, baggage details, and alerts to help you make your next flight with less stress.
Rich recommended a BBC article on the surprising things that can interfere with your Wi-Fi, including microwaves, thick walls, Bluetooth devices, and neighboring wireless networks.
Rich highlighted SABRE’s Smart Pepper Spray, which pairs with your phone and automatically sends a text with your GPS location to your emergency contacts when it’s deployed, helping loved ones know you may need assistance.
Rich recommended a Wired article on using Apple’s Assistive Access feature to turn an old iPhone into a simplified “dumb phone” that’s ideal for kids, seniors, or anyone who wants a distraction-free experience.
Accessibility expert Christopher Kelly explains the simple design choices and built-in tools that make websites, apps, TVs, and devices easier for everyone to use, especially as we age.
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🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT
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