Episode Details

The panel debates Microsoft's pushy AI search in Edge, privacy concerns over Copilot Memory, and compares AI tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT for search relevance. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet question Microsoft's past use of China-based engineers for U.S. military support, review a possible iPhone 17 sighting, and discuss Apple's testing secrecy.

Today's MacVoices is supported by TV+ Talk, our MacVoices series with Charlotte Henry focused on Apple TV+. From shows and other content to the business side there's always something to learn about apple's streaming service. Find it at the Categories listings on the web site or go directly to macvoices.com/category/tv-talk.

Chapters:

[0:38] Microsoft's AI Browser and Pushy Search Prompts [3:33] Perplexity vs. ChatGPT Search Quality [6:06] Copilot Memory and Personalization Privacy Concerns [8:00] Different AI Tools for Different Needs [11:00] Microsoft's China-Based Military Support Controversy [13:22] AI Search Engine Recommendations Document [15:26] Alleged iPhone 17 Sighting in San Francisco [18:48] Public Testing vs. Secrecy in Apple Prototypes [22:32] Could Apple Leak Prototypes on Purpose? [24:50] Closing Roundtable and Podcast Plugs

Links:

Microsoft trials Copilot Mode in Edge https://www.engadget.com/ai/microsoft-trials-copilot-mode-in-edge-201851903.html

Copilot doesn't just remember, it also understands you https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-copilot/for-individuals/do-more-with-ai/general-ai/ai-that-doesnt-just-remember-it-gets-you?form=MA13KP

Microsoft's controversial Recall feature is now blocked by Brave and AdGuard https://www.theverge.com/news/713676/brave-adguard-windows-recall-block-microsoft

Microsoft to stop using engineers in China for tech support of US military, Hegseth orders review https://www.reuters.com/world/us/microsoft-stop-using-engineers-china-tech-support-us-military-hegseth-orders-2025-07-18/

iPhone 17 development device spotted in the wild https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/07/28/iphone-17-development-device-spotted-in-the-wild

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud.

Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has pres