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MacVoices #25306: 2025 MacVoices Holiday Gift Guide #5 (2)

MacVoices

Release Date: 12/07/2025

MacVoices #26010: CES Unveiled  - HOVERAir Expands Its Line with a Waterproof Drone show art MacVoices #26010: CES Unveiled - HOVERAir Expands Its Line with a Waterproof Drone

MacVoices

At CES Unveiled,  showed off the Aqua, a first-of-its-kind self-flying action camera designed for use on land and water. Morgan Alexander outlined its waterproof design, 4K video, sub-250g weight, and unique snorkel mode that records above and below the surface.  Show Notes: Chapters: Links: HOVERAir on Amazon: Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon            Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with  Connect:      Web:            Twitter:       ...

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MacVoices #26009: CES Unveiled - Shure Updates the MV88 Mic for USB-C show art MacVoices #26009: CES Unveiled - Shure Updates the MV88 Mic for USB-C

MacVoices

From CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, T Banks, Product Manager for , introduces the new MV88 microphone designed for iPhone and USB-C devices. Featuring a dual-capsule design to deliver adjustable stereo sound, app-controlled gain, auto-leveling, and real-time noise reduction the MV88 help creators capture clean audio anywhere.  Show Notes: Links: Shure Mics on Amazon: Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon            Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with  Connect:      Web:        ...

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MacVoices #26008: Live! - Was Spotify's Music Stolen or Archived? show art MacVoices #26008: Live! - Was Spotify's Music Stolen or Archived?

MacVoices

Spotify’s music catalog was recently “appropriated” by an unauthorized party. Was it theft or preservation? The conversation explores copyright, artist rights, and the idea of music as both art and information. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea also look at libraries, global access, licensing models, and how digital archives and video games should be preserved for future generations.  MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at ....

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MacVoices #26007: CES Unveiled - Govee Shows Off AI-Driven Lighting and Smart Appliances show art MacVoices #26007: CES Unveiled - Govee Shows Off AI-Driven Lighting and Smart Appliances

MacVoices

At CES Unveiled 2026, Matthew Ungar, Marketing Manager for shows off the company’s newest smart lighting and home innovations. Highlights include LumaBlend Plus for richer color control, dynamic ceiling lights that mimic natural skies, an AI lighting assistant, and a nugget ice maker designed to bring restaurant-style convenience into the home.  Show Notes: Links: Govee Smart Ceiling Light GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Voice Control Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon            Enjoy this...

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MacVoices #26006: CES Unveiled - Inside FeatherSnap's Camera-Equipped Birdfeeders show art MacVoices #26006: CES Unveiled - Inside FeatherSnap's Camera-Equipped Birdfeeders

MacVoices

At CES Unveiled 2026 in Las Vegas, Carrie Kessenich, Director of Brand Management for talks about about their smart bird feeders that automatically captures photos and video of visiting birds. The system identifies species and delivers wildlife moments straight to your phone, turning backyard birdwatching into a modern, connected experience.  Show Notes: Links: FeatherSnap Smart Birdfeeder with AI Identification and Wi-Fi Solar Powered, Captures HD Pictures and Videos Sent Directly to Your Phone Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon      ...

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MacVoices #26005: CES Unveiled - DEFEND by Tactacam Brings Cellular Security Cameras Anywhere show art MacVoices #26005: CES Unveiled - DEFEND by Tactacam Brings Cellular Security Cameras Anywhere

MacVoices

At CES Unveiled in Las Vegas, we kicked off the event we talked to Dana Reese of , who gave us the highlights of the DEFEND a fully cellular security camera system that skips Wi-Fi and wiring for quick setup. Their app sends alerts and lets you request a photo, capture video, or jump into live view. Power is supplied by a solar panel and weather-ready battery, and offers subscription plans.  http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV26005.mp3 Show Notes: Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon            Enjoy this episode? Make...

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MacVoices #26004: Live! - ChatGPT Loses A Feature, Google Searches Get Less Private show art MacVoices #26004: Live! - ChatGPT Loses A Feature, Google Searches Get Less Private

MacVoices

Reactions to ChatGPT’s voice mode disappearing from the macOS app, debates about why it happened, and how it impacts their use are provided by Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea. Whether voice is the future, and if OpenAI’s “code red” priorities played a role are examined. Then, the panel also review the new “Tech Force" that is tapping talent from major tech firms for government initiatives, raising questions about goals, oversight, privacy, and long-term maintenance. The discussion wraps up with a...

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MacVoices #26003: Live! - Drone Bans, An Italian Fine, and Retaliation show art MacVoices #26003: Live! - Drone Bans, An Italian Fine, and Retaliation

MacVoices

The MacVoices Live! panel discusses reports of U.S. restrictions affecting foreign-made drones and the impact on DJI users, an Italian fine against Apple tied to app tracking prompts and privacy expectations, and talk of possible U.S. retaliation over EU tech enforcement. Along the way, the group vents Festivus-style grievances and debates privacy, evidence, and motive. Participants include Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea. MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac from MacPaw. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free...

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MacVoices #26002: Talking AI and LLMs with The Long Island Macintosh Users Group (2) show art MacVoices #26002: Talking AI and LLMs with The Long Island Macintosh Users Group (2)

MacVoices

Real-world risks and responsible use of AI kick off the second part of our conversation with . The group swaps scam stories (spoofed bank calls, W-2 phishing, ransomware) and how AI can amplify fraud. Ways to mitigate exposure in an AI-powered world include cyber insurance, privacy tradeoffs in popular AI tools, copyright/IP guardrails in image generation, and careful experimentation.  This edition of MacVoices is supported by . What happens before and after the shows is uncensored, on-topic, off-topic, and always off the wall. Sign up as a MacVoices Patron and get access! Show Notes:...

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MacVoices #26001: Talking AI and LLMs with The Long Island Macintosh Users Group (1) show art MacVoices #26001: Talking AI and LLMs with The Long Island Macintosh Users Group (1)

MacVoices

The first part of an appearance at digs into large language models, real-world AI use, and Apple’s philosophy. The conversation ranges from productivity and creativity to ethics, privacy, and deepfakes. Why experimentation, transparency, and skepticism matter as AI becomes part of everyday workflows starts with participation from the group. (1)  This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by our Patreon supporters. Get access to the MacVoices Slack and MacVoices After Dark by joining in at . Show Notes: Chapters: [0:00] Introduction and context of the AI discussion [2:57] AI vs....

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In the second part of the fifth installment of the 2025 MacVoices Holiday Gift Guide, David Ginsburg, Wally Cherwinski, and Chuck Joiner highlights a 4K portable monitor and stand, AirPods safety straps, compression and neoprene travel socks, rechargeable motion-sensor lighting, a compact USB microphone, and smart-home hardware buttons. Practical travel gear, audio upgrades, and smart lighting tools round out the list of gift picks. (Part 2) 

MacVoices is supported by Take Control Books: The Answers You Need Now, From Leading Experts. Start your library today.
http://takecontrolbooks.com

Show Notes:

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction to Part Two of the 2025 Holiday Gift Guide
[0:10] Sponsor message and transition to round three
[0:40] Dave’s pick: 4K portable monitor + adjustable stand
[2:43] Monitor pricing, size, and travel practicality
[3:16] Wally’s pick: AirPods safety straps
[4:36] AirPods loss prevention and real-world mishaps
[6:47] Materials, magnetic connectors, and affordability
[9:08] Chuck’s pick: rechargeable motion-sensor lighting
[9:59] Installation methods and LED performance
[11:54] Long-term use and visibility improvements
[12:55] Round four begins
[12:56] Dave’s pick: Rode NT-USB Mini microphone
[14:30] Audio quality, portability, and use cases
[15:35] Microphone collections and recommendations
[20:08] Wally’s pick: neoprene travel socks and compression socks
[22:18] Comfort, circulation, and travel benefits
[24:45] Fit, sizing, and quality considerations
[28:01] Chuck’s pick: Flick smart-home buttons
[29:35] Closing remarks and guest contact information

Links:

David Ginsburg:

True 4K Portable Monitor - 15.6inch UHD 3840×2160 100% sRGB USB-C HDMI External Second Monitor Portable IPS Screen
https://amzn.to/4oEgpbN

OCYCLONE Tablet Holder Compatible with iPad Stand for Desk, Foldable Tablet iPad Holder Portable Monitor Stand
https://amzn.to/48mdnE7

RØDE NT-USB Mini Versatile Studio-quality Condenser USB Microphone
https://amzn.to/4oEtGkD

Wally Cherwinski:

Ultra Strong Magnetic Anti-Lost Straps for AirPods, Colorful Soft Silicone Sports Lanyard Compatible with AirPods 4rd / AirPod Pro
https://amzn.to/48mgv2P

OMGear Water Socks Neoprene Socks Beach Booties 3mm 5mm Anti-Slip Wetsuit Footwear Fin Swim Sand Proof Socks
https://amzn.to/4a15vJs

FuelMeFoot 3 Pack Copper Compression Socks
https://amzn.to/44dqeWO

Chuck Joiner:

10-inch Under Cabinet Lighting, 2 Pack Rechargeable Motion Sensor Light Indoor, 5 Levels Dimmable Magnetic Closet Lights
https://amzn.to/4rEy4Tt

Flic Smart Button 3-Pack | Light Switch, Music Controller, Routine Trigger That Works with Alexa, Matter, Homekit, SmartThings
https://amzn.to/4plNZo7

Guests:

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud.

Wally Cherwinski is a Videographer based in Ottawa, Canada. Originally trained as a scientist, he spent a portion of his career in research and teaching at the University of Cambridge, England while doubling as a freelance photographer and writer. Later, he joined Canada's National Research Council and spent many years managing communications for the Canadian Space Program.

Starting with 16mm film, he has written and directed numerous documentaries and television features, including projects with Canada's National Film Board. More recently, he has combined his passion for video with his love of travel.

Wally has been a Mac user since the original 128K in 1984 and his Apple "museum" includes 28 Macs (not to mention Newtons, iPods, iPhones & iPads). He has delivered video workshops at Macworld, at Macintosh User Groups in Canada and on three MacMania cruises. He also writes a regular video column in the ScreenCastsOnline monthly magazine. You can connect with him on X, or view his Cirque du Mac videos (and others) on his YouTube channel.

Support:

     Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon
     http://patreon.com/macvoices

     Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal

Connect:

     Web:
     http://macvoices.com

     Twitter:
     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner
     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices

     Mastodon:
     https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner

     Facebook:
     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner

     MacVoices Page on Facebook:
     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/

     MacVoices Group on Facebook:
     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice

     LinkedIn:
     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/

     Instagram:
     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/

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