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$20K humanoid robot, Santa phone & moving your computer data (146, Nov 1, 2025)
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AI used to create fake receipts: Expense-report fraud is rising as employees use AI to generate realistic receipts. Companies report millions in fake submissions.
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Glasses that block facial recognition: Zenni Optical’s new ID Guard coating reflects infrared light, preventing facial recognition systems from identifying wearers. It also disables phone Face ID and Windows Hello while worn.
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NVIDIA hits $5 trillion valuation: The AI chipmaker briefly became the world’s most valuable company, surpassing Apple and Microsoft. Analysts warn valuations may be inflated by investor speculation around AI demand.
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Microsoft cloud outage causes global issues: A configuration error in Microsoft’s Azure cloud service caused an 8-hour outage affecting airlines, banks, and governments. Rich explains why reliance on a few cloud providers remains a risk.
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Humanoid robot for home chores: 1X's Neo robot can load dishwashers, fold laundry, and wipe counters—but only with a remote human operator wearing a VR headset. Deliveries are expected in 2026 for $20K or $500/month.
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Caller question – best portable phone chargers: Belkin’s 20,000 mAh power bank with USB-C charging was recommended as a reliable, travel-friendly option.
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Gadget of the week – Santa’s Magic Telephone: This $100 Wi-Fi-connected rotary phone from Mr. Christmas lets kids talk to an AI Santa that remembers their name and wish list. Rich calls it “surprisingly good and fast.”
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iPhone software update confusion: A caller saw iOS 26 listed alongside iOS 18.7.1; Rich clarified Apple now separates full updates from security-only versions, letting users choose stability or new features.
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Outlook email frustration: A listener struggled sorting by subject in the new Outlook. Rich confirmed the option is missing compared with Classic Outlook and suggested checking IT restrictions or reverting temporarily.
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Samsung’s tri-fold phone prototype: Unveiled in South Korea, the device folds twice to expand into a 10-inch screen. Expected to cost over $2,000 and compete with future foldables from Apple.
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YouTube TV vs Disney dispute: Disney channels including ESPN, FX, and ABC are dark as the companies negotiate fees. Rich suggests trying short free trials from competing services or DirecTV Stream’s 5-day pass.
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Fixing Google Contacts on Chrome: A caller’s contacts wouldn’t open after search. Rich advised clearing Chrome cache and cookies, updating the browser, disabling extensions, or testing in Edge.
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Samsung notification bubbles fix: For Galaxy users annoyed by floating text bubbles, go to Settings → Notifications → Advanced → Floating Notifications and turn bubbles off.
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Guest interview – Alexandra Samuel, “Me + Viv” podcast: The tech journalist created her own AI coach using ChatGPT. She discussed how personalized AIs can feel human, enhance creativity, and even risk emotional dependence.
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AI & mental health: Rich and Samuel noted OpenAI data showing millions of users struggling emotionally with AI chats. They discussed balancing AI’s benefits with human connection.
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Moving data to a new PC: Rich advised transferring only essential files to keep new systems clean—using OneDrive, an external drive, or Laplink PC Mover for full migrations.
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OpenTable adds loyalty perks: The new Regulars program offers Amazon gift cards for points, early reservation alerts for Gold members, and free Uber
Published on 1 day, 2 hours ago