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New AI Laptops, Printer Headaches and the Power Button Debate

This week on TechtalkRadio, Andy Taylor is joined by Shawn DeWeerd and Justin Lemme for another discussion covering the latest in consumer technology, practical troubleshooting, online privacy, and the ever-changing world of artificial intelligence.

Andy takes a closer look at the new ASUS Googlebook 14, a lightweight laptop designed around Google’s Gemini AI experience. Featuring a 3K OLED display, Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a thin, portable design, the Googlebook offers some impressive features. Andy shares his hands-on experience, including Android phone integration, GoogleOS, AI-powered photo editing with Magic Pointer, battery performance, and connectivity options. However, its premium price sparks a debate about value, Google’s ecosystem, and whether consumers really need a AI-focused computer.

That discussion leads Shawn and Justin into the growing interest in de-Googling — moving away from relying on major technology companies for cloud storage, personal information, and everyday computing. They discuss privacy concerns, open-source alternatives, home servers, and the trade-offs between convenience and control over personal data.

Listener questions take center stage as Linda from Sahuarita asks about buying a new printer and whether HP’s restrictions on third-party ink should influence her decision. The team compares inkjet and laser printers, explains why occasional printing can be troublesome for inkjets, and discusses the advantages of toner-based printers. Andy also shares his experience with Epson EcoTank printers.

Another listener, Gary from Tucson, raises an interesting question about smart TVs requiring account registration. Andy shares his experience purchasing an inexpensive ONN television and discovering that an account was required during setup. The conversation explores smart TV privacy, data collection, and what consumers should consider before purchasing or disposing of a connected television. Justin also offers a clever Gmail tip for tracking which companies may be sharing your email address.

The team tackles an important Windows question: Should you shut down your computer every night, and is holding down the power button a bad idea? They explain the difference between a normal shutdown and a forced power-off, discuss sleep mode, and share tips for configuring Windows 11 power settings. Justin also talks about his experience with the Windows 11 26H2 update and improvements he’s noticed in system performance.

In creative technology news, Andy discusses changes involving Remove.bg and Canva, along with Topaz and Adobe, and what these developments could mean for photographers, video editors, and graphic designers. The conversation also explores AI-generated content labels and the challenges facing creators as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly common in creative software.

There’s also an update on Justin’s search for an RV, including advice on insulation, campground reservations, used RVs, and how YouTube has become a valuable resource for researching just about anything.

Finally, Justin shares the Website of the Week: SolitaireAloneTogether.com, a nostalgic browser experience that recreates classic Windows Solitaire while allowing users to see other people playing their own games simultaneously.

From new laptops and computer troubleshooting to privacy concerns and nostalgic online games, it’s covered in this week’s episode of TechtalkRadio with Andy Taylor, Shawn DeWeerd, and Justin Lemme.

Listen to the show, catch the latest videos, and connect with the team at TechtalkRadio.com.

Andy shared a Video opening up the Asus GoogleBook 14 the Day after it arrived showing the Ports, Size and first look features

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First Look: ASUS Googlebook 14 Brings Gemini AI to Your Laptop

Artificial Intelligence is becoming an increasingly important part of personal computing, and ASUS is taking a big step forward with the introduction of the new Asus Googlebook 14 Offically Out October 12th. On this week’s Talking Tech segment on KMSB Fox 11 Tucson, Andy Taylor joins Tyler Butler in the studio for a hands-on look at this new AI-focused laptop.

The ASUS Googlebook 14 is designed to combine Google’s Gemini AI capabilities with an Android-connected computing experience. For users who already rely on Android smartphones, the ability to access familiar apps and continue working across devices could make this an appealing alternative to a traditional Windows laptop.

Under the hood, the Googlebook 14 features an Intel Core Ultra 5 325 processor, 16GB of memory, and storage options beginning at 256GB. Despite the hardware, the laptop weighs just 2.18 pounds and features an ultra-thin, sturdy design using Asus Nano Tech.

One of the more interesting features is ASUS’s Magic Pointer, which introduces AI-powered capabilities directly through the cursor, including tools for working with images. A dedicated G key provides quick access to Gemini AI, while a fingerprint reader and multiple ports add convenience.

Starting at $1,299 for the 256GB configuration, the ASUS Googlebook 14 represents a different approach to personal computing, with AI playing a central role rather than simply being an additional feature.

Watch the full KMSB Fox 11 Talking Tech segment as Andy and Tyler explore the design, features, and possibilities of this new laptop. Find out More on the Official Asus Website

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Don’t Yuck Your Yum! Justin gets Lost in America and a Tripod that Follows you?

This week on TechtalkRadio, Andy Taylor and Shawn DeWeerd welcome Justin Lemme back with a conversation that takes the show from the open road to online safety. Justin recounts his family trip to Devils Tower in Wyoming, including a quick Buc-ee’s shopping mission and a revelation that surprises the guys: he’s ready to buy an RV. That sends Shawn into familiar territory, sharing his experiences with campers, layouts, maintenance, and the debate over buying new or used. Naturally, technology finds its way into the discussion through solar panels, Starlink, and Shawn’s Raspberry Pi media server for entertainment while camping.

Back on the creator side, Andy shows off the Ulanzi TT23 tracking tripod and DJI Mic Mini 2 wireless microphone, discussing how the devices fit into smartphone video production, demonstrations, and event coverage. A question from Tucson listener Brian also prompts Shawn to explain his experience with yt-dlp, FFmpeg, and 4K Video Downloader as alternatives to recording videos from a screen.

Andy then welcomes Tom Kamber, executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP, for a discussion about artificial intelligence and online privacy. They explore how conversational AI can encourage users to lower their guard, concerns about sharing sensitive information, and privacy considerations when using genealogy services. Tom also highlights Senior Planet’s privacy resources and technology classes for older adults. The show wraps up with Shawn’s enthusiasm for Zelda, Nintendo, and finally securing a sought-after preorder after weeks of alerts.

Got a question for the show? Email techguys@techtalkradio.com, and catch more at techtalkradio.com.

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New Foldable Phones, Digital Horders and Rock ‘n’ Roll!

This week on TechtalkRadio, Andy Taylor and Shawn DeWeerd dive into Apple’s latest announcements, including the new foldable iPhone Duo and the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Shawn admits foldable phones simply aren’t for him, while Andy runs through some of the Duo’s more interesting features, including its larger folding display, split-screen multitasking, camera capabilities and the return of fingerprint authentication. The conversation expands into iOS updates, Apple silicon and just how much faster modern Macs have become for demanding jobs like video rendering.

Then comes a confession many tech enthusiasts can relate to: digital hoarding. Shawn reveals just how much iCloud space years of saved messages are consuming, while Andy describes a collection of backup drives that has grown to the point where even finding the right copy of a file can become an adventure. That leads into file recovery and an important reminder that deleting a file doesn’t necessarily mean the data immediately disappears.

Security also takes center stage with a disturbing story about a fiber installer accused of using a customer’s phone while supposedly testing Wi-Fi, accessing private photos and messages and sending material to himself. Andy and Shawn use the story as a reminder to think twice before handing an unlocked phone to anyone — even someone who appears to have a legitimate reason for needing it.

Shawn also recaps BlizzCon, including announcements surrounding World of Warcraft, Diablo and StarCraft, along with some memories of his own BlizzCon watch parties. The conversation branches into how newcomers can try World of Warcraft and how the gaming landscape has changed since the days when E3 was the industry’s big annual gathering.

The guys turn their attention to artificial intelligence, the importance of guardrails and what happens as more of everyday life becomes dependent on cloud services and an always-on Internet connection. Shawn points out that a widespread Internet or service outage could disrupt everything from communications to something as basic as paying for groceries.

Finally, Andy welcomes Jeff Scott Soto of Trans-Siberian Orchestra for a special conversation about TSO’s 30-year history. Jeff recalls initially wondering how classical music, Christmas songs and hard rock could possibly work together — before ultimately becoming part of the phenomenon himself. He talks about joining TSO following his time with Journey, the vision of founder Paul O’Neill and how the live production continues to evolve with lighting, pyrotechnics, drones and other technology.

Jeff also shares what it means to see multiple generations of families attending TSO concerts, the band’s tradition of giving back to communities and the importance of continuing Paul O’Neill’s vision. It’s a fitting combination of music and technology to wrap up another wide-ranging episode of TechtalkRadio.

Links from This Week:

Apple iPhone Duo – https://www.apple.com/iphone-duo/

Blizzcon 2026 – https://blizzcon.com

Nate Eaton Reporter – Facebook page with Story about Smartphone Security

Trans-Siberian Orchestra – Jeff Scott Soto was a Guest on TechtalkRadio

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Big-Screen Entertainment Anywhere with the Monster Vision 2

Portable entertainment doesn’t have to be limited to a small smartphone screen. During this KMSB Fox 11 Tech segment, Andy Taylor talks with Tyler Butler and shares two ways to make mobile video viewing a little bigger.

The first is a simple smartphone screen magnifier priced at under $20 from Seancheer. The phone slides behind the magnifying panel, creating a larger-looking image without batteries, cables or a power connection.

For a more complete entertainment experience, Andy demonstrates the Monster Vision 2. The portable system features a 15.6-inch 1920-by-1080 display, built-in speakers, an over-the-air TV tuner, HDMI connectivity for compatible streaming devices, Bluetooth, FM radio and a microphone input for karaoke or portable PA use. Its rechargeable battery makes it suitable for RV travel, camping, tailgating, workshops and other places where a conventional television may not be practical.

Editor’s note: The original Monster Vision 2 may now have limited availability, although remaining inventory can still be found through select retailers. Monster also offers the newer Monster Vision 2 MAX. The Max offering gives more battery range for watching Video and more wattage for audio. Product pricing and availability may change.