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
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.
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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.
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.
Andy Taylor and Shawn DeWeerd cover everything from portable entertainment and Smart TV privacy to AI-generated true crime, cutting the cable cord, Windows 11 privacy, security cameras and some surprisingly creative corners of social media in this Week’s TechtalkRadio Show.
Andy kicks things off with a look at the Monster Vision 2, which we have since found has been discontinued by Monster Audio! The Monster Vision 2 still available from stock through retailers is an all-in-one portable entertainment system featuring a 15-inch Full HD display, built-in battery, FM radio, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB playback and even a microphone input. Could it be the perfect companion for camping, tailgating, backyard movie nights or emergency preparedness? Shawn, an experienced camper himself, weighs in on whether he’d actually make room for the roughly 27-pound unit on his next trip.
Watching outdoors on a Rainy Day
From watching TV outdoors, the conversation turns to what your television may be watching about you. Andy and Shawn discuss privacy concerns surrounding LG Smart TVs, including reports involving content recognition, network activity and the data modern televisions may collect. Gamers Nexus did a great breakdown of this story on YouTube. It raises a bigger question: when you purchase a Smart TV, how much control do you really have over the information it gathers?
Streaming is also on the menu as Andy shares his renewed appreciation for Tubi. While Netflix, Max, Disney+, Hulu and Paramount+ continue competing for subscription dollars, Tubi offers a growing catalog of movies and programs at no charge—as long as you’re willing to sit through the commercials. Andy even found the Lost Documentary – Getting Lost which he was on the fence about paying to watch it VOD.
AI takes the conversation in a much more unsettling direction with a discussion of an upcoming true-crime production titled Unmasking a Monster: Aileen Wuornos using digital technology to recreate the likeness of serial killer Aileen Wuornos. The Trailer is available on YouTube but nothing on the ID Website at press time. Instead of traditional dramatic reenactments, technology is being used to make the recreated scenes appear far more authentic. Andy and Shawn debate whether this is an impressive application of AI—or whether entertainment has crossed a line that may be difficult to uncross.
That leads into the changing economics of artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Shawn explains why the cost of processing, bandwidth and storage is causing some organizations to reconsider putting everything in the cloud and instead bring computing resources back on-premises. Even AI music services such as Suno are beginning to adjust limits as companies work to balance powerful technology with the very real cost of providing it.
Listener Martin from Sahuarita asks whether it might finally be time to dump expensive cable television and move to YouTube TV. Andy and Shawn talk about DVR functionality, local channels, streaming quality, internet requirements and whether switching could actually save money. Shawn shares his family’s experience with the service and why a trial may be the best way to determine whether cutting the traditional cable connection makes sense.
Security cameras come up next when Andy asks Shawn about replacing one of his Google Nest cameras. Andy has his eye on a Wyze solar-powered pan camera, but Shawn has an important warning involving a voluntary safety recall and the danger of using the wrong mounting screws. Shawn also shares his experience with Wyze cameras and his recently replaced video doorbell.
Another listener, Lauren from Tucson, has a Windows 11 privacy question: Is her computer really taking pictures of what she does to help AI? That brings up Microsoft Recall, the optional feature on Copilot+ PCs designed to capture snapshots of activity so users can later search what they’ve seen. Andy and Shawn discuss the privacy concerns surrounding Recall, ways users can investigate their settings, and why the feature has generated so much controversy.
Andy also highlights some social-media creators who prove there’s more to TikTok than endless scrolling. Among the creators discussed are Planet Antonio, who transports viewers into a live black-and-white 1940s newsroom also Cale Brown, whose clever editing can turn one dancer into an entire synchronized group—without relying on AI. Also Babka21wekk has an impressive following and is entertaining. Another creator that Andy enjoyed was The Liz Effect which takes the idea of DJ’ing Music to a Live Audience and was a fun watch with the banter and comments.
Finally, Shawn reveals what he’s been doing with Suno: creating World of Warcraft-inspired parody songs. His “DuhWeirdy” project combines familiar musical ideas with characters, events and inside jokes from the World of Warcraft universe. It’s another example of how generative AI can become a creative tool when somebody brings a fun idea to the technology. Here is one of the Videos with music creation
Portable TVs, privacy concerns, streaming choices, AI ethics, cloud costs, Windows 11, security cameras, creative video and World of Warcraft parody songs—it’s another wide-ranging trip through technology with Andy Taylor and Shawn DeWeerd on TechtalkRadio. Thanks for checking us out! Subscribe on our YouTube Page!
Links Mentioned This Week:
Monster Vision 2 – No Longer Available from the Manufacturer (Amazon Link)
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