Old Mac Gang
- Episodes
- 87
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 12, 2026
About the podcast
Welcome to the Old Mac Gang podcast (or OMG!), a podcast/vodcast with a panel of long-time Mac/Apple users who want to discuss the most relevant apps and services to age-seasoned users.
Episodes 87
Subscription Audit
A $7.99 here and a $14.99 there is easy to ignore, until we add up a year of them. Two unused $15 services alone cost $360 a year. This week the Old Mac Gang does a subscription audit together: where to find …
Show notes
A $7.99 here and a $14.99 there is easy to ignore, until we add up a year of them. Two unused $15 services alone cost $360 a year. This week the Old Mac Gang does a subscription audit together: where to find everything we have signed up for, how to decide what stays, and how to cancel the rest without a fight.
On the panel: Peter, Chris, Bob, and Marty.
THE CONVERSATION
1. How many subscriptions do you think you have, and which one surprised you?
2. Where do we look? Walk us through finding all of them (App Store, card statements, email receipts, Purchase History).
3. Keep, cancel, or review: how do we decide what is worth paying for?
4. How do we cancel without a fight?
5. What keeps the clutter from creeping back?
QUICK TIPS FROM THE EPISODE
- iPhone: Settings > your name > Subscriptions.
- Mac: App Store > your name > Account Settings > Manage next to Subscriptions.
- Mystery charge? Sign in at reportaproblem.apple.com and search by the amount.
- Ask of every subscription: did I use it in the last 30 days, and would I sign up again at today's price?
- Set a calendar reminder two or three days before a free trial or special offer ends.
RESOURCES
Kiplinger: The 30-Minute Subscription Audit That Could Save You Hundreds This Year
https://kiplinger.com/personal-finance/subscription-audit-save-money
AARP: How to Find and Cancel Unwanted Subscriptions
https://www.aarp.org/personal-technology/tech-guru-cancel-unwanted-subscriptions/
Apple Support: Cancel, change, or share subscriptions in the App Store on Mac
https://support.apple.com/guide/app-store/cancel-change-or-share-subscriptions-fire5f3a0745/mac
Apple Support: Cancel a subscription from Apple
https://support.apple.com/en-us/118428
Apple Support: View your purchase history
https://support.apple.com/en-us/118212
Consumer Reports: How to Find and Cancel Unwanted Online Subscriptions
https://www.consumerreports.org/consumer-awareness/how-to-find-and-cancel-unwanted-online-subscriptions-a3454561625/
FTC Consumer Advice: Getting In and Out of Free Trials, Auto-Renewals, and Negative Option Subscriptions
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/getting-and-out-free-trials-auto-renewals-and-negative-option-subscriptions
Tom's Guide: How to Cancel Subscriptions on Your iPhone
https://tomsguide.com/phones/how-to-cancel-subscriptions-on-your-iphone
WHERE TO FIND US
Peter: @ppetto on Instagram, FB, X, tumblr, BlueSky, and Mastodon
Chris: ChrisWesselmanPhotography.com | Bluesky and Flickr: @ChrisW47-az | Threads/Instagram: @chris.wesselman
Bob: TMUG.com, ThinkBob.com, DangerousBobPhotography.com, @ThinkBob on BlueSky
Marty: @jencius on Bluesky and Mastodon | ThePodTalk.Net
MORE FROM THE OLD MAC GANG
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Substack: www.Substack.com/@ThePodTalkNetwork
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
Pro and Tell
Apple spread its fall Mac and iPad launch across the week: an OLED iPad mini, an M6 iMac, a 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro, and a "Pro and Tell" event in Los Angeles. Instead of quoting benchmarks, we ask which of it …
Show notes
Apple spread its fall Mac and iPad launch across the week: an OLED iPad mini, an M6 iMac, a 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro, and a "Pro and Tell" event in Los Angeles. Instead of quoting benchmarks, we ask which of it fits our budgets, our habits, and our patience for something new.
ARTICLES WE READ
Everything Apple Announced This Week So Far: New iPad and MacBooks (Engadget)
https://www.engadget.com/2298220/everything-apple-announced-ipad-macbook-pro-and-tell-event/
Apple Announces New iPad Mini With 8.5-Inch OLED Display, A20 Pro Chip, and More (MacRumors)
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/10/26/apple-announces-ipad-mini-with-oled-display/
Apple event LIVE: MacBook Pro M6 and iMac M6 just announced ahead of 'Pro and Tell' (Tom's Guide)
https://www.tomsguide.com/news/live/apple-oled-macbook-pro-pro-ipad-mini-8-pro-and-tell-event-live-updates
MacBook ProLed (Apple Newsroom)
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/10/apple-unveils-groundbreaking-macbook-pro-with-proled-xdr-display/
New MacBook Pro (MacRumors)
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/10/28/apple-new-macbook-pro/
QUESTIONS WE DISCUSS
1. What was your first reaction to a week of Apple announcements? What caught your eye, and what did you ignore?
2. What are you using today, and does anything this week make you want to replace it?
3. Is the all-in-one iMac still the right Mac for our generation?
4. Is a $699 iPad mini worth it, and who is it for?
5. Do we want to touch our Mac screen?
FIND US
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Substack: www.Substack.com/@ThePodTalkNetwork
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
Welcome Home
The Old Mac Gang discusses Apple’s “Welcome Home” announcements, what smart home devices are worth buying, and whether they can make everyday life and aging in place easier.ArticlesWelcome Home: Everything …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang discusses Apple’s “Welcome Home” announcements, what smart home devices are worth buying, and whether they can make everyday life and aging in place easier.
Articles
Welcome Home: Everything Apple Announced on October 13
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/10/13/apple-october-13-recap/
Apple’s “Welcome Home” Event
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/2026/10/13/apple-launch-event-october-2026/
Apple “Welcome home” Event: Three New Products Are Coming Tomorrow
https://9to5mac.com/2026/10/12/apple-welcome-home-event-three-new-products/
Apple Newsroom
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/
Questions We Asked
What was your first reaction to the Welcome Home announcements?
What do you have in your home today that is “smart,” and what do you actually use?
Of the three new devices, which would you buy or recommend to someone our age, and which would you skip?
Do we need a screen on the counter or wall, or is the iPhone already that screen?
Are we comfortable talking to the house, and with devices that recognize who is in it?
Who is this for: us, our kids, or our parents, and does it make aging in place easier?
Connect with the Gang
Peter: @ppetto on Instagram, Facebook, X, Tumblr, Bluesky, and Mastodon
Charlie: [email protected]; CyberchuckTX across social platforms
Chris: ChrisWesselmanPhotography.com | Bluesky and Flickr: @ChrisW47-az | Threads and Instagram: @chris.wesselman
Bob: TMUG.com, ThinkBob.com, DangerousBobPhotography.com | Bluesky: @ThinkBob
Marty Jencius: @jencius on Bluesky and Mastodon | ThePodTalk.Net
Show Contact Information
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Substack: Substack.com/@ThePodTalkNetwork
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
What Matters To Us
Apple's fall lineup is a guessing game again: an OLED iPad mini, M6 iMac, new Apple TV, HomePod mini, maybe a touchscreen MacBook. Rather than predict, each of us brings one question about what matters to …
Show notes
Apple's fall lineup is a guessing game again: an OLED iPad mini, M6 iMac, new Apple TV, HomePod mini, maybe a touchscreen MacBook. Rather than predict, each of us brings one question about what matters to us.
Apple Event This October? These 7 New Products Expected Next Month (MacRumors, Sept. 22)
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/09/22/apple-event-october-2026-what-to-expect/
Fall 2026 Apple Product Rumors (Cult of Mac, Sept. 14)
https://cultofmac.com/news/apple-products-fall-2026-rumors
When Is Apple's Next Event? (Macworld, Oct. 1)
https://www.macworld.com/article/672537/when-is-apples-next-event.html
Apple Newsroom (Apple)
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Substack: www.Substack.com/@ThePodTalkNetwork
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
Neo or M-Series?
The Gang weighs Apple's $699 MacBook Neo against a new M5 Air, an Apple refurb, and the perennial used M1 bargain to help you buy a Mac that lasts five or six years without paying for power you'll never …
Show notes
The Gang weighs Apple's $699 MacBook Neo against a new M5 Air, an Apple refurb, and the perennial used M1 bargain to help you buy a Mac that lasts five or six years without paying for power you'll never use.
Section 1 — Meet the MacBook Neo: What $699 Buys
- MacBook Neo (Apple)
https://www.apple.com/macbook-neo/ - MacBook Neo: Should You Buy? Reviews and More (MacRumors)
https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/macbook-neo/ - Apple MacBook Neo Review: Surprisingly good and capable for $599, with one big flaw (Notebookcheck)
https://www.notebookcheck.net/Apple-MacBook-Neo-Review-Surprisingly-good-and-capable-laptop-for-599-with-one-big-flaw.1247679.0.html - MacBook Neo Review — 6 Months Later
https://6monthslater.net/2026/09/macbook-neo-review/
Section 2 — The M-Series Case, Including That M1 in the Closet
- First MacBook Neo Benchmarks Are In: How It Compares to the M1 MacBook Air (MacRumors)
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/05/macbook-neo-first-benchmarks/ - Is the MacBook Air M1 Still Worth Buying in 2026? (BGR)
https://www.bgr.com/2215378/is-macbook-air-m1-still-worth-buying-in-2026/ - Buying a Used M1 MacBook Air in 2026: Still a Steal or a Security Risk? (The Mac Observer)
https://www.macobserver.com/tips/round-ups/buying-a-used-m1-macbook-air-in-2026-still-a-steal-or-a-security-risk/ - Are Older MacBooks Still Worth Buying in 2026? (Engadget)
https://www.engadget.com/2255893/older-macbook-still-worth-buying-2026/
Section 3 — The Fine Print That Actually Decides It
- Best MacBook for 2026: Air vs Pro vs Neo Compared (Macworld)
https://www.macworld.com/article/667144/best-macbook-air-vs-pro-neo-compared.html - Which MacBook Should You Buy in 2026? Five Best Apple Laptops Ranked (Tom's Guide)
https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/macbooks/i-review-laptops-for-a-living-and-this-is-now-the-macbook-i-recommend-to-most-people - Get Started with Accessibility Features on Mac (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/get-started-with-accessibility-features-mh35884/mac
Section 4 — Where and How to Buy It
- Certified Refurbished Mac (Apple)
https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/mac
Where to Find the Gang
- Charlie — [email protected] | "CyberchuckTX" in many places
- Chris — ChrisWesselmanPhotography.com | Bluesky and Flickr: @ChrisW47-az | Threads/Instagram: @chris.wesselman
- Bob — TMUG.com | ThinkBob.com | DangerousBobPhotography.com | Bluesky: @ThinkBob
- Marty Jencius — @jencius on Bluesky and Mastodon | ThePodTalk.Net
Contact the Show
- YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
- Substack: www.Substack.com/@ThePodTalkNetwork
- Website: ThePodTalk.Net
- Email: [email protected]
- MacBook Neo (Apple)
Fave Four: Our Favorite Features of macOS Golden Gate, iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and watchOS 27
The Gang runs four rounds of favorites from Apple’s September 14 releases—macOS 27 Golden Gate, iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and watchOS 27—naming the headline and hidden features worth trying yourself.Petapixel and …
Show notes
The Gang runs four rounds of favorites from Apple’s September 14 releases—macOS 27 Golden Gate, iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and watchOS 27—naming the headline and hidden features worth trying yourself.
Petapixel and Tyler Stalman:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYH9RPdRfGs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yozFyE8Mb5o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6avuE41-VA (videographers)
Section 1: macOS 27Golden Gate
• macOS27 Golden Gate: New features, release date, beta, compatible Macs (Macworld)https://www.macworld.com/article/3139330/macos-27-mac-features-siri-apple-intelligence-release-date-compatibility.html
• macOS 27 Golden Gate now available, here is everything new (9to5Mac)https://9to5mac.com/2026/09/14/macos-27-golden-gate-now-available-here-is-everything-new/
• What's new in the updates for macOS 27 Golden Gate (Apple Support)https://support.apple.com/en-us/127257
• macOS 27 Golden Gate New Features: 7 to Try Today (Gadget Hacks)https://apple.gadgethacks.com/news/macos-27-golden-gate-new-features-7-to-try-today/
• macOS 27 Golden Gate Update: The Best New Features (Geeky Gadgets)https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/macos-27-golden-gate-features-2026/
Section 2: iOS 27
• iOS 27 Now Available: 10 Features to Try First (MacRumors)https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-27-features-to-try-first/
• 50 New Things Your iPhone Can Do in iOS 27 (MacRumors)https://www.macrumors.com/2026/09/15/50-new-things-iphone-can-do-ios-27/
• iOS 27 now available: New features, compatible iPhones, and more (9to5Mac)https://9to5mac.com/2026/09/14/ios-27-now-available-features-compatible-iphones/
Section 3: iPadOS 27
• About iPadOS 27 Updates (Apple Support)https://support.apple.com/en-us/149075
• iPadOS 27 (Apple)https://www.apple.com/os/ipados/
• iPadOS 27 Released: Top New Non-AI Features (Android Headlines)https://www.androidheadlines.com/2026/09/ipados-27-new-features-siri-ai.html
• Apple releases iPadOS 27, here's what's new for iPad (9to5Mac)https://9to5mac.com/2026/09/14/apple-releases-ipados-27-heres-whats-new-for-ipad/
Section 4: watchOS 27
• Apple Releases watchOS 27 With Siri AI, New Watch Face, Smart Stack Improvements andMore (MacRumors) https://www.macrumors.com/2026/09/14/apple-releases-watchos-27/
• watchOS 27 is live: 7 new features to try first on your Apple Watch (Tom's Guide)https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/smartwatches/watchos-27-is-live-7-new-features-to-try-first-on-your-apple-watch
• watchOS 27: Here are Apple's full release notes (9to5Mac)https://9to5mac.com/2026/09/10/watchos-27-here-are-apples-full-release-notes-for-new-update/
• watchOS 27: Everything We Know (MacRumors)https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/watchos-27/
Contact the Show
Web: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
Surprise and Shine
Apple held its annual fall event -- "Surprise and Shine" -- on September 9, 2026. The Old Mac Gang gathers to react to what Apple unveiled, how it compared to the pre-show predictions and leaks, and what it all …
Show notes
Apple held its annual fall event -- "Surprise and Shine" -- on September 9, 2026. The Old Mac Gang gathers to react to what Apple unveiled, how it compared to the pre-show predictions and leaks, and what it all means for Mac users and the Apple ecosystem.
· New Apple CEO unveils latest iPhone lineup,including a foldable model called Duo
https://apnews.com/article/fd35312e6d894d5f3b055b3d62f22cd2· Live: Apple debuts iPhone Duo, its firstfoldable iPhone
https://www.axios.com/2026/09/09/apple-live-updates-foldable-iphone-duo-18· Everything Apple announced at its fall iPhoneevent, from the foldable iPhone Duo to an always-listening Apple Watch
https://techcrunch.com/2026/09/09/everything-apple-announced-at-its-fall-iphone-event-from-the-foldable-iphone-duo-to-an-always-listening-apple-watch/· Everything Apple Announced: iPhone Duo,iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch, AirPods 5
https://www.wired.com/story/everything-apple-announced-september-2026/· Everything Apple announced at its Surpriseand Shine event
https://www.macworld.com/article/3228054/surprise-and-shine-apple-event-live-blog-iphone-18-pro-folding-duo-airpods.html· Apple unveils iPhone Duo
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-unveils-iphone-duo/· Apple debuts iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 ProMax
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-debuts-iphone-18-pro-and-iphone-18-pro-max/· Introducing Apple Watch Series 12, with theall-new Health Sensing System
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/introducing-apple-watch-series-12-with-the-all-new-health-sensing-system/· Apple unveils Apple Watch Ultra 4
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-unveils-apple-watch-ultra-4/· Apple introduces AirPods 5, featuringbest-in-class open-ear Active Noise Cancellation
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-introduces-airpods-5-with-best-in-class-open-ear-active-noise-cancellation/Design for iPhone Duo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=do3UqxfYc3I
Youtube.com/@Fade toChat
[email protected]ThePodTalk.Net
Ebooks & Audiobooks
The Gang takes an honest look at ebooks and audiobooks on the Apple gear you already own — making the type behave, borrowing free from your library, and listening the way you like it.LINKS FROM TONIGHT'S …
Show notes
The Gang takes an honest look at ebooks and audiobooks on the Apple gear you already own — making the type behave, borrowing free from your library, and listening the way you like it.
LINKS FROM TONIGHT'S SHOW
Read books in the Books app on iPhone (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/read-books-iphc1af7c57/ios
Read or listen to text in apps with Accessibility Reader on iPhone (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/read-listen-text-apps-accessibility-reader-iph406a46ab8/ios
Access books on other Apple devices in the Books app (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/access-books-on-other-apple-devices-iphb886e1752/ios
Getting started with Libby (Libby Help)
https://help.libbyapp.com/en-us/6103.htm
hoopla digital — Help and Getting Started
https://www.hoopladigital.com/help
Project Gutenberg — Free eBooks
Standard Ebooks — Free and Liberated Ebooks
Listen to audiobooks in the Books app on iPhone (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/listen-to-audiobooks-iphac1971248/ios
Libro.fm — Audiobooks That Support an Independent Bookstore
Send PDF, EPUB and Other Files to Your Kindle (Amazon)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=G5WYD9SAF7PGXRNA
Calibre — Ebook Management for the Mac
ThePodTalk.Net
Ring, Ring: Use it as a Phone
The Old Mac Gang goes back to basics with the iPhone's most overlooked app — the Phone app itself — covering iOS 26's unified Calls list, Call Screening, Wi‑Fi Calling, and built-in call recording.Mac Studio …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang goes back to basics with the iPhone's most overlooked app — the Phone app itself — covering iOS 26's unified Calls list, Call Screening, Wi‑Fi Calling, and built-in call recording.
Mac Studio Gets Update to M5Max and M5 Ultra (AppleInsider)
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/08/25/mac-studio-gets-update-to-m5-max-and-m5-ultra
New Mac Studio M5 Max and M5Ultra: Everything You Need to Know (Macworld)
https://www.macworld.com/article/2973459/2026-mac-studio-m5-release-date-specs-price-rumors.html
Apple Unveils New Mac Miniand Mac Studio With Updated Chips (Forbes Vetted)
Make a call on iPhone (AppleSupport)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/make-a-call-iph3c993cbc/ios
Ten Useful New Features iniOS 26's Phone App (Austin MacWorks)
https://austinmacworks.com/ten-useful-new-features-in-ios-26s-phone-app/
Set up Voicemail on iPhone(Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/set-up-voicemail-iph3c99490e/ios
Screen and block calls oniPhone (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/screen-and-block-calls-iphe4b3f7823/ios
Manage unknown callers oniPhone (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/en-us/111106
iOS 26's new Phone app won meover with two excellent features (9to5Mac)
https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/01/ios-26s-new-phone-app-won-me-over-with-two-excellent-features/
Make a call with Wi‑FiCalling (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/en-us/108066
Make and receive phone callson Mac, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/en-us/102405
How to record and transcribea call on iPhone (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/en-us/121583
Peter — @ppetto most everywhere
Charlie —[email protected], and "CyberchuckTX" in many places
Chris — ChrisWesselmanPhotography.com (https://chriswesselmanphotography.com)| Bluesky and Flickr: @ChrisW47-az | Threads/Instagram: @chris.wesselman
Bob — TMUG.com (http://tmug.com), ThinkBob.com (http://thinkbob.com),DangerousBobPhotography.com (http://dangerousbobphotography.com)
Marty Jencius — @jencius on Bluesky and Mastodon | ThePodTalk.Net
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
Keys to the Kingdom: Mastering Mac Keyboard Shortcuts
The Old Mac Gang panel provides their favorite keyboard shortcuts and ways to integrate them into your workflow.SECTION 1 --- The Essentials: Core macOS Shortcuts Everyone Should Know1. Mac keyboard shortcuts …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang panel provides their favorite keyboard shortcuts and ways to integrate them into your workflow.
SECTION 1 --- The Essentials: Core macOS Shortcuts Everyone Should Know
1. Mac keyboard shortcuts (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/en-us/102650
2. Mac Keyboard Shortcuts: Complete Cheat Sheet (KeyShortcuts)
https://keyshortcuts.net/blog/mac-keyboard-shortcuts
3. 100+ Time Saving Mac Keyboard Shortcuts for 2026 (Tech by Davey)
https://techbydavey.com/mac-keyboard-shortcuts/
SECTION 2 --- Beyond Copy and Paste: Window Management, Screenshots, and Spotlight
1. 60 Mac Keyboard Shortcuts That'll Instantly Speed Up Your Workflow (Apple Headlines)
https://www.appleheadlines.com/how-to-use-keyboard-shortcuts-mac/
2. The Ultimate Guide to Mac Keyboard Shortcuts (MacHow2)
https://machow2.com/keyboard-shortcuts-for-mac/
3. macOS Keyboard Shortcuts 2026 | Complete Cheat Sheet (FastShortcuts)
https://fastshortcuts.com/shortcuts/mac/
SECTION 3 --- Making Shortcuts Your Own: Customizing and Third-Party Tools
1. Create keyboard shortcuts for apps on Mac (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/create-keyboard-shortcuts-for-apps-mchlp2271/mac
2. Use macOS keyboard shortcuts (Apple Support)
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/keyboard-shortcuts-mchlp2262/mac
3. Best Mac Keyboard Shortcut Apps (TextExpander)
https://textexpander.com/blog/mac-keyboard-shortcut-app
Additional mention:
Dock Star app
www.dockstar.app
PANELIST CONTACT INFORMATION (Where can we find you?)
Peter --- @ppetto most everywhere
Chris --- ChrisWesselmanPhotography.com (https://chriswesselmanphotography.com)
Bluesky and Flickr: @ChrisW47-az
Threads/Instagram: @chris.wesselman
Bob --- TMUG.com (http://tmug.com), ThinkBob.com (http://thinkbob.com), DangerousBobPhotography.com (http://dangerousbobphotography.com)
Marty Jencius --- @jencius on Bluesky and Mastodon | ThePodTalk.Net
SHOW CONTACT INFORMATION
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
5 Chaps, 5 Apps
No topic tonight — just gear. All five panelists (Charlie, Chris, Marty, Peter, and Bob) bring one app they actually use, and the whole crew weighs in on every pick.Apps covered:The Brain — …
Show notes
No topic tonight — just gear. All five panelists (Charlie, Chris, Marty, Peter, and Bob) bring one app they actually use, and the whole crew weighs in on every pick.
Apps covered:
- The Brain — https://www.thebrain.com/ (Charlie's pick)
- Time Machine Editor — https://tclementdev.com/timemachineeditor/ (Chris's pick)
- Reading List — https://marc.io/readinglist (Marty's pick)
- CleanShot X — https://cleanshot.com/ (Peter's pick)
- SetApp — https://setapp.com (Bob's pick)
Find us:YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGangWebsite: ThePodTalk.NetEmail: [email protected]
2 Chaps, 4 Apps
In this stripped-down format episode, two of the Gang ditch the topics and rabbit holes to share four apps they'd tell a friend to download today.APP 1 — VLC (Chris's …
Show notes
In this stripped-down format episode, two of the Gang ditch the topics and rabbit holes to share four apps they'd tell a friend to download today.
APP 1 — VLC (Chris's pick)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vlc-media-player/id650377962
Free, open-source media player that plays virtually anything — no codec hunting required.APP 2 — Speedtest by Ookla (Chris's pick)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/speedtest-by-ookla/id1153157709?mt=12
One-tap internet speed test — download, upload, ping, jitter, plus a history log.APP 3 — Stickier! (Marty's pick)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/stickier/id6447073047?mt=12
Modern take on Mac sticky notes — formatting, checkboxes, menu bar quick-notes, and floating always-on-top windows synced to iOS.APP 4 — Dock Star (Marty's pick)
https://dockstar.app/Build custom docks on your desktop — drag in apps, files, folders, drives, web links, switch between saved "scenes," even trigger Shortcuts. A spiritual successor to DragThing.ContactWebsite: ThePodTalk.NetEmail: [email protected]YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Printers - Selection and Setup
The Gang tackles printers end to end — choosing between inkjet and laser, OEM vs. third-party ink and toner, getting a new printer talking to a Mac, PC, and phone, and the most common problems (and fixes) that …
Show notes
The Gang tackles printers end to end — choosing between inkjet and laser, OEM vs. third-party ink and toner, getting a new printer talking to a Mac, PC, and phone, and the most common problems (and fixes) that come up along the way. The panel also shares the actual printers sitting on their own desks and the real-world costs and headaches they've run into.
Best Printers 2026: 10 Models Tested for Home Office(Guidespot)
https://www.guidespot.com/best-printers/
5 Best Printers of 2026, Tested and Reviewed(Consumer Reports)
The 5 Best Printers of 2026, Recommended by Experts(NBC Select)
https://www.nbcnews.com/select/amp/rcna171286
OEM vs. Compatible vs. Remanufactured TonerCartridges (Toner Buzz)
https://www.tonerbuzz.com/blog/toner-cartridges-genuine-oem-vs-compatible-vs-remanufactured/
Are Compatible Toner Cartridges Any Good? (imageOne)
https://www.imageoneway.com/blog/are-compatible-toner-cartridges-any-good
Name Brand vs. Remanufactured vs. CompatibleCartridges (LD Products)
https://www.ldproducts.com/blog/name-brand-vs-remanufactured-vs-compatible-printer-cartridges/
Printers 101 for Seniors (Number Analytics)
https://www.numberanalytics.com/blog/printers-101-for-seniors
How to Set Up a Wireless Printer: Step-by-Step Guide(Laptop Outlet)
https://www.laptopoutlet.co.uk/blog/how-to-setup-a-wireless-printer.html
Printer Troubleshooting FAQs: Quick Fixes for CommonPrinting Problems (HP)
Peter Brother HL-L2370DW — black & white laser (homeoffice)HP ENVY Inspire 7200 — color inkjet, with scanner(wife's office)
CharlieEpson WorkJet 630 — color inkjet with cartridges,built-in scanner
ChrisEpson Artisan 730 (2015) — color inkjet, all-in-onescan/copy
BobBrother monochrome laserBrother color laserCanon color inkjet (wife's office)
MartyBrother DCP-L2640DW — wireless compact monochromemulti-function laser, copy/scan/duplex (home office)Canon imageCLASS MF3010 VP — wired monochromemultifunction laser with scanner/copier (office)Program Contact InformationYouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGangWebsite: ThePodTalk.Net Email: [email protected]
Cheap, Fast, or Working: Shopping Internet Service for Seniors
The Old Mac Gang looks at what it actually costs to get online and how to stop paying gigabit prices for email.SECTION 1 — How Much Do You Need, and What Are You Paying?Save Money on Internet (Senior Planet …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang looks at what it actually costs to get online and how to stop paying gigabit prices for email.
SECTION 1 — How Much Do You Need, and What Are You Paying?
Save Money on Internet (Senior Planet from AARP)
https://seniorplanet.org/save-money-on-internet
Free Zoom classes, 400+ in-person partner sites, and a handout on reading a pricing sheet. The best "where do I send my mother" answer on the list.
Internet for Seniors: Best Plans and Discounts (HighSpeedInternet.com)
https://www.highspeedinternet.com/resources/internet-for-seniors
AARP does not sell internet, and most providers have no senior discount. Call instead of ordering online — agents can apply breaks the website never shows.
Best Internet Service for Seniors in 2026 (SeniorLiving.org)
https://www.seniorliving.org/internet/best/
Ranked on price, service, and reliability instead of top-end speed. Ask the neighbors — coverage is block by block.
If You're Paying for Fast Wi-Fi, Make Sure You're Getting It (AARP)
https://www.aarp.org/personal-technology/internet-speed-test/
Run a speed test against the bill. Most "slow internet" is a tired router, not the plan. One or two people on email and streaming are fine at 50-100 Mbps.
SECTION 2 — Help With the Bill After the ACP Went Away
Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
$9.25 a month off phone or internet, up to $34.25 on Tribal lands. Qualify by income or Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, housing, or Veterans Pension. Renew yearly or lose it.
Find Low-Cost Internet Offers in Your Area (EveryoneOn)
https://www.everyoneon.org/find-offers
Enter a ZIP, check the boxes, get the real plans at that address — plus discounted refurbished computers and free basics training.
Best Internet Providers for Seniors (BroadbandNow)
https://broadbandnow.com/guides/seniors
Xfinity Internet Essentials, Spectrum Internet Assist, Cox ConnectAssist, AT&T Access. Watch the new-customer-only trap for long-time subscribers.
A Guide to Free Internet for Seniors (TheSeniorList)
https://www.theseniorlist.com/internet/free/
The blunt version: there is no free internet for seniors, and the $30 ACP credit ended June 1, 2024. What's left is a patchwork that changes by ZIP code.
SECTION 3 — Which Connection, and Who Fixes It at 9 PM?
FCC National Broadband Map
https://broadbandmap.fcc.gov/
Every provider reporting service at a street address, with technology and speeds. Free, no signup, no sales call. Also check the mobile coverage map.
Best Fixed Wireless & 5G Home Internet Providers of 2026 (CompareInternet)
https://www.compareinternet.com/fixed-wireless-internet/
100-300 Mbps, $35-$70, no contract, no data caps, self-install in minutes. Verizon's Frontier deal closed in January 2026, so Fios is on the table in new places.
5G Home Internet vs. Cable (InternetProviders.ai)
https://www.internetproviders.ai/resources/5g-home-internet-vs-cable/
5G wins on price and simplicity; cable wins at 8 PM. No contract means you can try it for a month. Check the phone for 5G bars first.
How to Negotiate Your Internet Bill (BroadbandNow)
https://broadbandnow.com/guides/how-to-negotiate-your-internet-bill-for-best-deal
Ask for retention by name. Buy your own modem and stop the $10-$15 rental. Call mid-morning Tuesday through Thursday. Downgrading speed is the underrated move.
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
To Beta or not to Beta
It's beta season on the Apple calendar. On July 13, the firstpublic betas of iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27 “Golden Gate,” watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS all arrived at once — and right on cue, the “should I install …
Show notes
It's beta season on the Apple calendar. On July 13, the firstpublic betas of iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27 “Golden Gate,” watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS all arrived at once — and right on cue, the “should I install it?” texts started flying in from friends and family. This week the Gang breaks down what’s actually new in these builds, why a “public” beta still isn’t the same thing as “safe,” and — most useful of all — what we tell the less tech-savvy folks in our lives about when to update and when to just leave it alone. Bob is out this week, so the rest of us are twice as opinionated.
Apple Seeds First Public Betas of iOS 27 and iPadOS 27(MacRumors)
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/07/13/apple-seeds-ios-27-public-beta-1/
Public Betas for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, tvOS 27, and macOS 27“Golden Gate” (macOSCompatible)
https://www.macoscompatible.com/story/apple-releases-public-betas-for-ios-27-ipados-27-tvos-27-and-macos-27-golden-gate
First iOS 27, macOS 27 Public Betas Are Out — But YouShould Still Be Careful (AppleInsider)
https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/07/13/first-ios-27-macos-27-public-betas-are-out-but-you-should-still-be-careful
Should I Install the macOS Beta? (Macworld)
https://www.macworld.com/article/671123/should-i-install-macos-beta-latest-version.html
Developer Beta vs. Public Beta: Which Should You Choose?(Geeky Gadgets)
https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/should-you-install-ios-27-beta/
To Beta or Not to Beta — That Is the Question (AppleCommunity)
https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-250009676
Should You Always Update Your iPhone to the Latest iOS?(My Computer Works)
https://mycomputerworks.com/should-you-always-update-your-iphone-to-the-latest-ios-version/
Automatic Updates Are Apple’s Best Defense Against Delay(AppleMagazine)
https://applemagazine.com/automatic-updates/
Marty Jencius — @jencius on Bluesky and Mastodon| ThePodTalk.NetPeter — @ppetto most everywhere socialCharlie — [email protected], and “CyberchuckTX” in many placesChris — ChrisWesselmanPhotography.com | Blueskyand Flickr: @ChrisW47-az | Threads/Instagram: @chris.wesselman
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang Website: ThePodTalk.NetEmail: [email protected]
Dock and Menubar Management
The Old Mac Gang give tips on managing your dock and menubar with their own examplesSECTION 1 — The Dock: App Launcher, File Shelf & MoreHow to Customize Your Mac Dock Like a Pro (Ask Dave Taylor) — …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang give tips on managing your dock and menubar with their own examples
SECTION 1 — The Dock: App Launcher, File Shelf & More
How to Customize Your Mac Dock Like a Pro (Ask Dave Taylor) — https://www.askdavetaylor.com/how-to-customize-your-mac-dock-like-a-pro/
11 Clever Ways to Customize the Mac Dock (How-To Geek) — https://www.howtogeek.com/clever-ways-to-customize-the-mac-dock/
How to Group Mac App Icons More Prominently in Your Dock (MacRumors) — https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/group-app-icons-macos-dock/
Mac Dock Customization: 7 Advanced Tips Beyond Default Settings (Appish) — https://appish.app/blog/mac-dock-customization-beyond-default-options
SECTION 2 — The Menu Bar: Managing the Strip at the Top
Best Mac Menu Bar Apps in 2026: Tiny Utilities That Save You Hours (Timing App Blog) — https://timingapp.com/blog/best-mac-menu-bar-apps/
Bartender Alternatives: 6 Mac Menu Bar Managers Compared (Teeny Apps) — https://teenyapps.com/articles/bartender-alternatives/
Best Bartender Alternatives for Mac in 2026 (Badgeify) — https://badgeify.app/top-3-bartender-free-alternatives-to-manage-your-mac-menu-bar/
Subscribe to The Old Mac Gang on YouTube @OldMacGang, live Wednesday nights 9PM EST.
Reach us at [email protected] or ThePodTalk.Net.
WWDC and OS27 features
The Old Mac Gang covers what was said at WWDC and the changes that will effect seasoned Apple usersEngadget — Everything Announced at WWDC 2026: https://www.engadget.com/2189698/everything-announced-at-apples-ww …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang covers what was said at WWDC and the changes that will effect seasoned Apple users
Engadget — Everything Announced at WWDC 2026: https://www.engadget.com/2189698/everything-announced-at-apples-wwdc-2026-keynote/
Tom's Guide — WWDC 2026 Recap: https://www.tomsguide.com/news/live/wwdc-2026-live-news-updates
TechCrunch — WWDC 2026 Everything Announced: https://techcrunch.com/2026/06/09/wwdc-2026-everything-announced-on-siri-ai-os-27-apple-intelligence-and-more/
Digital Trends — Full WWDC 2026 Breakdown: https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/wwdc-2026-ios-27-siri-ai-apple-intelligence-upgrades-and-everything-else-apple-announced/
Tech Republic — 10 Biggest Announcements: https://www.techrepublic.com/article/news-11-biggest-announcements-apple-wwdc-2026/
iClarified — All 263 New Features: https://www.iclarified.com/101152/here-are-the-263-new-features-revealed-in-apples-massive-wwdc-2026-slide
The Liquid Glass Situation
iOS 27 adds an opacity slider — dial back transparency from full Liquid Glass to a solid look
Default appearance is less extreme than iOS 26 out of the box
More uniform toolbar design across macOS apps
Performance
Apps launch up to 30% faster; Photos open up to 70% faster; AirDrop transfers up 80%
Apple's "Snow Leopard" moment — fixing what's broken before adding new features
macOS 27 Golden Gate
Apple Silicon only — Intel Macs no longer supported
macOS 26 continues to get security updates for Intel users
Search
Rebuilt index loads immediately after updating
Faster, more relevant results across Mail, Photos, and the OS
Accessibility
VoiceOver offers AI-generated image descriptions
Action Button can trigger Visual Intelligence — point, ask, get spoken answers
Voice Control: describe buttons in natural language
Accessibility Reader adds AI summaries and translations
Parental Controls
Child account setup dramatically simpler; age-appropriate app suggestions built in
Accounts automatic for under-13, active through 18; parents approve all app additions
New Time Allowance: per-app and per-category limits with time-of-day schedules
"Ask to Browse": kids request blocked site access via Messages; parents approve remotely
Ask to Buy default for under-13 in App Store and in-app purchases
Communication Safety now flags violent and explicit content, not just nudity
Third-party parental control APIs now open to developers
Siri AI
Siri rebuilt as a conversational AI — thinks ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude; powered in part by Google Gemini
On-screen awareness: Siri sees your display and acts on it
Maintains conversation history across sessions
Searches Messages, email, calendar, and photos to answer personal questions
New standalone Siri app — speak or type, review past conversations, syncs via iCloud
Writes and edits emails/messages; adapts tone to context
Mail: suggested actions; Phone: surfaces relevant info during calls
Beta this fall, English only; opt-in; not available on tvOS
App Updates
Photos: slideshow maker, Cleanup/Extend/Spatial Reframe AI tools, iCloud Shared Albums now full-res
Safari: AI tab organizer, Notify Me for restocks/price drops
Maps: upgraded Flyover with AI-blended 3D city views; Local Lists for trending nearby spots
Messages: shortcuts to add Calendar events, Notes, or pull related photos
Mail: faster search, suggested actions; Calendar: add events in plain language
Passwords: autonomously navigates to vulnerable sites and upgrades weak passwords
Home: camera alerts grouped by activity; AI describes what triggered motion alerts
AirPods: custom EQ coming — adjust bass, mids, treble
Wallet: scan physical loyalty/membership cards to create digital versions
Find My: share location for custom time windows or pause sharing by day
Shortcuts: describe what you want in plain language, Siri builds it
• New episodes at ThePodTalk.Net
• Find us on YouTube: @TheOldMacGang
• Email: [email protected]
Food and grocery delivery apps
The Old Mac Gang gives their tips for using food and grocery delivery appsGetting Started: Guides for Seniors Using Food DeliveryHow Seniors Can Use DoorDash: A Step-by-Step Guide to Easy, Affordable Food …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang gives their tips for using food and grocery delivery apps
Getting Started: Guides for Seniors Using Food Delivery
How Seniors Can Use DoorDash: A Step-by-Step Guide to Easy, Affordable Food Delivery — Retirement Hobby Guide
https://retirementhobbyguide.com/2025/12/30/how-seniors-can-use-doordash-a-step-by-step-guide-to-easy-affordable-food-delivery/
Free & Paid Food Delivery Services for Seniors — SeniorLiving.org
https://www.seniorliving.org/internet/food-delivery/
A Guide to Food Delivery Apps for Older Adults — Bethesda Gardens
https://www.bethesdagardensaz.com/blog/a-guide-to-food-delivery-apps-for-older-adults
A Guide for Seniors Using Grocery Delivery Apps — Inclinator
https://inclinator.com/blog/a-guide-to-grocery-delivery-apps-for-seniors/
Senior-Specific Options & Caregiver Resources
5 Ways Seniors Can Have Food Delivered to Their Door — OurParents.com
https://www.ourparents.com/senior-health/ways-seniors-can-have-food-delivered-to-their-door
GoGoGrandparent — Food Delivery for Seniors Without a Smartphone
https://www.gogograndparent.com/services/meals-for-seniors
Meal Delivery Services for Elderly Parents: Complete Guide 2026 — Parent Care Guide
https://parentcareguide.com/guides/meal-delivery-services-elderly
Food Delivery Apps — Senior Planet from AARP (Free Online Class)
https://seniorplanet.org/event/food-delivery-apps-4-21-25/
YouTube/@TheOldMacGang
Reach us at [email protected]
ThePodTalk.Net.
Spotlight search
The Old Mac Gang chats about the new Spotlight on MacOS Tahoe, how they use it, and some challengers that also work.* Search for Anything with Spotlight on Mac — Apple Support (Mac User Guide) …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang chats about the new Spotlight on MacOS Tahoe, how they use it, and some challengers that also work.
* Search for Anything with Spotlight on Mac — Apple Support (Mac User Guide)
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/search-with-spotlight-mchlp1008/mac
* Narrow Your Search Results in Spotlight on Mac — Apple Support (Mac User Guide)
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/narrow-search-results-in-spotlight-mchl4d69efd3/mac
* Spotlight Settings on Mac — Apple Support
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/spotlight-settings-on-mac-mchl54d95e8a/mac
* How to Use the All-New Spotlight in macOS 26 Tahoe — Cult of Mac
https://www.cultofmac.com/how-to/spotlight-mac
* Spotlight Search in macOS Tahoe: What’s New — TWiT.TV (Hands-On Apple #202)
https://twit.tv/posts/tech/spotlight-search-macos-tahoe-whats-new
* Spotlight Search Tips Mac — AppleMagazine
https://applemagazine.com/spotlight-search-tips-mac/
HoudahSpot (also on SetApp)
https://www.houdah.com/houdahSpot/
Alfred
https://www.alfredapp.com/
Contact us: [email protected]
Visit the network: ThePodTalk.Net
YouTube: YouTube.com/@OldMacGang
Tech Travel Gear
The Old Mac Gang shares their favorite travel tech hardware and a few misses they've had. Resource links:AARP: Tech Use and Adoption Keeps Surging Among Older Adults — AARP Research …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang shares their favorite travel tech hardware and a few misses they've had.
Resource links:
AARP: Tech Use and Adoption Keeps Surging Among Older Adults — AARP Research 2026
https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/technology/internet-media-devices/2026-technology-trends-older-adults/
Best Travel Gadgets of 2026 — Men's Journal
https://www.mensjournal.com/travel/best-travel-gadgets
Best Tech Gifts for Frequent Travelers 2026 — Pack Hacker
https://www.packhacker.com/blog/general/best-tech-gifts/
Top 20 Tech Gadgets for Seniors in 2025 — Vertu
https://vertu.com/lifestyle/age-proofing-your-life-top-20-tech-gadgets-for-seniors-in-2025/
Top Tech Gadgets Every Senior Should Have in 2025 — AllSeniors.org
https://allseniors.org/articles/top-tech-gadgets-every-senior-should-have-in-2025/
12 Essential MagSafe Accessories for Travel — TechRadar
https://www.techradar.com/home/12-essential-magsafe-accessories-for-travel
Best Travel Gear of 2026: 26 Expert-Tested Essentials — Jetsetter Guide
https://jetsetterguide.com/travel-gadgets/best-travel-gear-2026-26-expert-tested-essentials
Anker & INIU Portable Charger (B&H / Best Buy)
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp?id=pcat17071&st=mophie%20charger
RORRY Portable Charger, 10000mAh PD 20W Fast Charging Power Bank with Built-in Cables
https://tinyurl.com/2nzm4te5
USB C Data Blocker, (4-Pack) USB A to USB C
https://tinyurl.com/3kw2w7b6
EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
https://tinyurl.com/2p9pumdu
Travelkin Travel Electronic Cord Organizer Travel Case
https://tinyurl.com/44pjkxn2
SPOTMINDERS Tracking Card
https://www.spotminders.com/products/spotminders-tracking-cards
Magnetic Anti-Lost Straps for AirPods
https://tinyurl.com/nhm28kwr
Tribit PocketGo Bluetooth Shower Speaker
https://tinyurl.com/tudb4szc
MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones Bluetooth and Sleep Mask
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08S2WXBP8?tag=slashgearcom-yahoo-20&th=1
USB C to Type C LED Light Up Charger Cord RGB Gradual Changing
https://is.gd/SSbxPr
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
Apple Wallet
Marty, Peter, Bob, and Chris talk about how theyeach use the aspects of the Apple WalletWallet — Applehttps://www.apple.com/wallet/Apple Wallet keeps getting better, here's what'snew and coming next — …
Show notes
Marty, Peter, Bob, and Chris talk about how theyeach use the aspects of the Apple Wallet
Wallet — Apple
Apple Wallet keeps getting better, here's what'snew and coming next — 9to5Mac
https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/14/apple-wallet-keeps-getting-better-heres-whats-new-and-coming-next/
Apple Wallet is quietly getting a massiveupgrade — Pocket-Lint
https://www.pocket-lint.com/new-apple-wallet-features-finally-gaining-traction-others-on-the-way/
These U.S. States Plan to Offer iPhone Driver'sLicenses — MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/28/future-iphone-drivers-license-states/
Apple Pay for Transit Now Works in These 12 U.S.Cities — MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/28/apple-pay-transit-us-cities/
These Apple Wallet Features Replaced My PhysicalWallet — 9to5Mac
Every Card You Can Add to Apple Wallet (Complete2026 List) — NeatPass
https://neatpass.app/learn/cards-you-can-add-apple-wallet
iOS 27 Unlocked: Create & Customize AppleWallet Passes — QuantoSei News
Add your driver's license to Apple Wallet —Apple Support
https://support.apple.com/en-us/111803
Use Express Mode with transit cards, passes, andkeys in Apple Wallet — Apple Support
https://support.apple.com/en-us/105123
When will your state let you add your ID toApple Wallet? — Cult of Mac
https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-wallet-id-states
Additional Links
Apple Wallet — Boarding Passes overview
Pass2U Wallet (third-party pass creator)
Where you can ride transit using Apple Pay —Apple Support
https://support.apple.com/en-us/118625
Supported vehicles for Apple car key
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211234
TWZKG for MagSafe Wallet, 5 Cards Holder with Stand, Magnetic Phone Wallet Stand for iPhone
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FCG3K1GKWebsite: The PodTalk.Net
Email: [email protected]
YouTube: YouTube.com/@OldMacGang
Text to Speech
The Old Mac Gang talk about their use of text to speech functions available on your Apple products.How to Use Text to Speech on Mac: The Complete Guide (2026) — …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang talk about their use of text to speech functions available on your Apple products.
How to Use Text to Speech on Mac: The Complete Guide (2026) — AnySpeech
https://anyspeech.io/blog/how-to-use-text-to-speech-on-mac
Text to Speech on Mac: Tools, Apps & AI Alternatives (2026) — AI Dictation
https://aidictation.com/blog/text-to-speech-mac
5 Best Text-to-Speech Apps for Mac in 2026 — WordWand
https://wordwand.co/blog/best-text-to-speech-mac-app-2026
Best Text to Speech AI Tools for Mac, iOS, and Cross-Platform Users in 2025 — Apple Gazette
https://www.applegazette.com/resources/best-text-to-speech-ai-tools-for-mac-ios-and-cross-platform-users-in-2025/
The Useful Mac Spoken Content Accessibility Features — MacMost
https://macmost.com/the-useful-mac-spoken-content-accessibility-features.html
Writers: Use Spoken Content to Proof Text on Mac and iPad — Revert to Saved
https://reverttosaved.com/2023/09/21/writers-use-the-spoken-content-accessibility-feature-to-have-your-mac-and-ipad-read-words-and-help-you-proof-text/
The 9 Best Dictation and Speech-to-Text Software in 2026 — Zapier
https://zapier.com/blog/best-text-dictation-software/
Matter app
https://www.getmatter.com/
Instapaper
https://www.instapaper.com/
YouTube: Youtube.com/@oldmacgang
Email: [email protected]
Website; ThePodTalk.Net
Using Public WiFi safely
The Old Mac Gang speaks about how they handle use (or not) of public WiFiHow to Stay Safe on Public WiFi: A 2026 Guide — Simply Tech Todayhttps://www.simplytechtoday.com/how-to-stay-safe-on-public-wifi/Public …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang speaks about how they handle use (or not) of public WiFi
How to Stay Safe on Public WiFi: A 2026 Guide — Simply Tech Today
https://www.simplytechtoday.com/how-to-stay-safe-on-public-wifi/
Public Wi-Fi: A Guide to the Risks and How to Stay Safe — Norton
https://us.norton.com/blog/privacy/public-wifi
Public Wi-Fi Security Measures — What You Need to Know in 2026 — The Secure Patrol
https://www.thesecurepatrol.com/public-wi-fi-security-measures/
How to Secure macOS, iOS, and iPadOS on a Public WiFi Network — Coywolf
https://coywolf.com/reviews/software/how-to-secure-macos-and-ios-on-a-public-wifi-network/
Protecting Your Mac on Public Wi-Fi in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide — MacUpdate
https://www.macupdate.com/how-to/protecting-your-mac-on-public-wi-fi-in-2025-a-step-by-step-guide
Best VPN for Mac 2026: Fastest & Safest Mac VPNs Tested by Experts — Macworld
https://www.macworld.com/article/231047/best-vpn-for-mac.html
Using Public WiFi Safety Questions — MacRumors Community Forums
https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/using-public-wifi-safety-questions.2477931/
5 Essential Tips for Secure Public Wi-Fi Use in 2025 — Analytics Insight
https://www.analyticsinsight.net/tech-news/5-essential-tips-for-secure-public-wi-fi-use-in-2025
Tailscale
https://tailscale.com
ExpressVPN
https://www.expressvpn.com
SurfShark
https://surfshark.com/
Juice Jacking Blocker
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5D5DP96
YouTube: youtube.com/@FadeToChat
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
Apple Calendar
The Old Mac Gang talk about Apple Calendar tips that they use.You May Be Using Colors in Apple Calendar App Wrong — MacMosthttps://macmost.com/you-may-be-using-colors-in-apple-calendar-app-wrong.htmlApple …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang talk about Apple Calendar tips that they use.
You May Be Using Colors in Apple Calendar App Wrong — MacMost
https://macmost.com/you-may-be-using-colors-in-apple-calendar-app-wrong.html
Apple Calendar: Color Code Events by Making Separate Calendars — Macworld
https://www.macworld.com/article/1378257/how-to-color-code-events-apple-calendar.html
How to Change Calendar Colors on iPhone, iPad, and Mac — iDownloadBlog
https://www.idownloadblog.com/2020/09/15/edit-change-calendar-colors-iphone-ipad-mac/
How to Share or Make iCloud Calendars Public on iPhone and iPad — iMore
https://www.imore.com/how-publicly-share-calendar-your-iphone-and-ipad
How to Subscribe to Calendars on iPhone and iPad — MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/how-to/subscribe-to-calendars-on-iphone-ipad/
How to Subscribe to Public Calendars on Mac — OSXDaily
https://osxdaily.com/2022/02/15/subscribe-public-calendars-mac/
Apple’s Calendar App Has an Exclusive Feature I Use All the Time — 9to5Mac
https://9to5mac.com/2025/04/14/apples-calendar-app-has-exclusive-feature-i-use-all-the-time/
Fantastical: https://flexibits.com/fantastical
Join us at Macstock. Use the Discount Code "PodTalk" and you will get 50$ off your 3-Day Weekend Pass Macstock Pass or Creator Camp
Email: [email protected]
YouTube: YouTube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
Making Your Apple Devices Work Together
Marty, Peter, Chris, and Charlie speak about how they keep their Mac devices all synced together on this episode of the Old Mac Gang.6 Useful Ways To Use Apple’s Continuity Feature on iPhone and Mac — …
Show notes
Marty, Peter, Chris, and Charlie speak about how they keep their Mac devices all synced together on this episode of the Old Mac Gang.
6 Useful Ways To Use Apple’s Continuity Feature on iPhone and Mac — SlashGear
https://www.slashgear.com/1614904/useful-ways-use-apple-continuity-feature-iphone-mac/
These Features Make the Mac and iPad Better Together (Video) — 9to5Mac
https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/26/these-apple-magic-moments-show-how-well-macos-and-ipados-work-together-video/
Essential Apple Ecosystem Features and Setup for 2025 — Geeky Gadgets
https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/apple-ecosystem-explained-2025/
AirDrop: The Ultimate Guide — iMore
https://www.imore.com/airdrop
How to Use and Troubleshoot AirDrop for Simple File Transfers — Macworld
https://www.macworld.com/article/232442/how-to-use-airdrop.html
Universal Control and Sidecar Explained: What’s the Difference? — Macworld
https://www.macworld.com/article/611366/universal-control-sidecar-explained-mac-ipad.html
Universal Control vs. Sidecar: What’s the Difference? — MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/universal-control-vs-sidecar/
iPhone Mirroring in macOS Sequoia: Everything You Need to Know — MacRumors
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/iphone-mirroring/
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
Using your iPhone microphone
The Old Mac Gang speak about iPhone uses as a dictation and transcription device. Whisper Transcription — AI-Powered Offline Transcription App (App Store)https://apps.apple.com/us/app/whisper-transcription/id166 …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang speak about iPhone uses as a dictation and transcription device.
Whisper Transcription — AI-Powered Offline Transcription App (App Store)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/whisper-transcription/id1668083311
Otter.ai — Real-Time Transcription and Meeting Notes
Voice Recorder Pro — Record, Edit, and Share (App Store)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/voice-record-pro/id546983235
Shure MV88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone
https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/mv88usbc?variant=MV88-USBC
Rode Wireless GO
https://rode.com/en-us/products/wireless-go-gen-3
Samson Go Mic USB Microphone
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/598775-REG/Samson_SAGOMICS_Go_Mic_USB.html
Mini Mic Pro (Latest Model) - Wireless Mini
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMJTSVRW?tag=bgus-193836-20&th=1
Plaud
DJI Microphone
https://www.dji.com/mic
RODE Wireless GO (Gen 3)
https://rode.com/en-us/products/wireless-go-gen-3
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
Navigating the Apple Refurbished Market
The Old Mac Gang looks at their experiences getting refurbished Apple productsApple Certified Refurbished Store (Official)https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbishedRefurb Tracker — Email & RSS alerts by model …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang looks at their experiences getting refurbished Apple products
Apple Certified Refurbished Store (Official)
https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished
Refurb Tracker — Email & RSS alerts by model, country, RAM, and storage specs
Apple Refurbished Tracker — Set alerts by device type, model, price range, and specs
https://applerefurbishedtracker.com
Refurb.me — Browse Apple refurb stock, pricing history, and availability stats across countries
MacRumors: Apple Refurbished Products — Should You Buy Them?
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/apple-refurbished/
9to5Mac: Is Apple’s Refurbished Store Actually Worth the Money?
https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/24/is-apples-refurbished-store-actually-worth-the-money/
MacObserver: How to Buy Refurbished Apple Products — Savings, Warranty & What You Get
https://www.macobserver.com/tips/round-ups/apple-refurbished/
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
An Apple Nostalgia Trip
Marty, Bob, and Chris talk about their first Mac devices and remember the cool things Apple has done in the past Links:The Mac Turns 40: A Timeline of Apple's Revolutionary Computer …
Show notes
Marty, Bob, and Chris talk about their first Mac devices and remember the cool things Apple has done in the past
Links:
The Mac Turns 40: A Timeline of Apple's Revolutionary Computer Designhttps://www.euronews.com/culture/2024/01/24/the-mac-turns-40-a-timeline-of-apples-revolutionary-computer-design
The History and Future of Apple's Mac Computers (1984–2024) https://applescoop.org/story/the-history-and-future-of-apples-mac-computers-1984-2024The Full List of All macOS Versions (2001–2025) https://setapp.com/how-to/full-list-of-all-macos-versions
Five Common Mistakes New iPhone Users Always Make https://bgr.com/2028981/common-iphone-mistakes-users-always-make/
iCloud: Too Confusing for Customers? https://umatechnology.org/icloud-too-confusing-for-customers/
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
Apple Product Releases for Us
Chris and Marty discuss the week’s Apple product releases and which ones seniors may be interested in.Monday, March 2iPhone 17e- A19 chip (same as iPhone 17), 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with Ceramic …
Show notes
Chris and Marty discuss the week’s Apple product releases and which ones seniors may be interested in.
Monday, March 2
iPhone 17e
- - A19 chip (same as iPhone 17), 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with Ceramic Shield 2
- - MagSafe finally comes to the “e” line — with faster wireless charging and a full accessory ecosystem
- - 48MP Fusion camera with 2x optical-quality Telephoto, 4K Dolby Vision video
- - C1X modem — 2x faster than iPhone 16e’s C1
- - 256GB base storage at same $599 starting price; available in black, white, and new soft pink
- - Still has the notch — no Dynamic Island
- - Apple Newsroom: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-iphone-17e/
- - MacRumors coverage: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/02/apple-unveils-two-new-products/
iPad Air with M4
- - M4 chip — up to 30% faster than M3 model; 12GB unified memory (up from 8GB)
- - N1 networking chip with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6
- - C1X modem in cellular models for faster 5G
- - Same design as M3 model; same colors: blue, purple, starlight, space gray
- - Starts at $599 (11-inch) and $799 (13-inch); pre-orders open March 4, available March 11
- - Apple Newsroom: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-the-new-ipad-air-powered-by-m4/
Tuesday, March 3
MacBook Air with M5 (13-inch and 15-inch)
- - M5 chip with 10-core CPU and up to 10-core GPU; 4x faster AI performance than M4
- - 153 GB/s memory bandwidth — 28% faster than M4
- - N1 chip adds Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6
- - Base storage doubles to 512GB; prices start at $1,099 (13-inch) and $1,299 (15-inch) — $100 more than M4
- - Apple Newsroom: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-the-new-macbook-air-with-m5/
MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max (14-inch and 16-inch)
- - M5 Pro: 18-core CPU, up to 24-core GPU; M5 Max: 18-core CPU, up to 40-core GPU with 128GB unified memory
- - M5 Max memory bandwidth: up to 614 GB/s
- - N1 chip on all models: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6
- - TechRadar live coverage: https://www.techradar.com/news/live/apple-march-2026-event-iphone-17e-ipad-air-macbook
New Studio Display and Studio Display XDR
- - Studio Display: 27-inch, 12MP Center Stage camera, Thunderbolt 5, $1,599
- - Studio Display XDR: 27-inch mini-LED, 2,000 nits peak HDR, 120Hz ProMotion $3,299 — replaces the 32-inch Pro Display XDR
- - Macworld live blog: https://www.macworld.com/article/3073997/apple-march-2026-event-live-blog.html
Wednesday, March 4 — “Apple Experience”
MacBook Neo — Official Announcement
- Apple’s first iPhone-chip Mac laptop — officially announced at the Apple Experience event in New York City
- Powered by the A18 Pro chip (6-core CPU, 5-core GPU) — the same chip in the iPhone 16 Pro; first Mac to run an A-series rather than M-series chip
- 13-inch Liquid Retina display, 2408×1506 resolution, 500 nits brightness, 1 billion colors — no notch
- 8GB unified memory (not upgradeable)
- 256GB storage at $599; 512GB model at $699 (adds Touch ID) — base model ships without Touch ID; education pricing starts at $499
- Colors: Silver, Blush, Citrus, and Indigo
- Two USB-C ports: left port is USB 3 (also supports external display output); right port is USB 2 only — no MagSafe
- Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6; headphone jack on left side
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera, dual mics, dual side-firing speakers with Spatial Audio
- Up to 16 hours battery life (MacBook Air offers 18 hours); no backlit keyboard on base model
- Runs macOS Tahoe with Apple Intelligence; up to 3x faster on-device AI workloads vs. best-selling Intel PC laptop
- Apple’s most affordable laptop ever; targets students, casual users, and Chromebook/Windows switchers
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/03/say-hello-to-macbook-neo/
https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/04/macbook-neo-is-now-official/
YouTube: youtube.com/@OldMacGang
Website: ThePodTalk.net
Email: [email protected]
March 4th Apple Predictions and Desires
The Old Mac Gang reviews their wishes, their interests, and their potential purchases for the March 4th Apple Experience.What’s Happening on March 4?Reports from Macworld, 9to5Mac, CNET, and MacRumors all …
Show notes
The Old Mac Gang reviews their wishes, their interests, and their potential purchases for the March 4th Apple Experience.
What’s Happening on March 4?
Reports from Macworld, 9to5Mac, CNET, and MacRumors all suggest Apple will introduce multiple new products in early March, culminating in activity on March 4, 2026.
Apple Set to Launch at Least Five New Products by March 4
Apple launching at least five products next week with March 4 event report
Apple Could Unveil at Least Five New Products at March 2026 Special Experience
Five New Apple Products Expected Next Week
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/22/five-new-apple-products-next-week/
Expected Product Announcements
1. New iPad Line Updates
Rumors suggest updates to:
- iPad Pro (potential M3 or M4 chip refinement)
- iPad Air refresh
- Possibly a new Apple Pencil iteration
What to watch for:
- OLED expansion?
- Chip bumps
- Battery efficiency improvements
- More aggressive education pricing?
2. Mac Updates
Possible announcements include:
- MacBook Air refresh
- Mac Studio update
- M4 chip expansion into more models
The big question:
Is this a spec bump cycle — or something meaningful?
3. Accessories & Ecosystem Updates
There’s speculation about:
- Updated Magic accessories (USB-C refinements)
- Possibly AirPods updates
- Ecosystem alignment across devices
YouTube: YouTube.com/@OldMacGang
Email: [email protected]
Website: ThePodTalk.Net
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