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

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