TechtalkRadio – Official TechtalkRadio Blog

May 24, 2026May 24, 2026 Andy TaylorTechtalkRadioAI, AndyTaylor, AppleAI, ArtificialIntelligence, ASUSZenbookA16, BaronSmellyBones, BluetoothSpeakers, BoardGames, BrentCritchfield, BubblePopOrigin, ChatGPT, ClassicGaming, CopilotAI, DOSGaming, DungeonsAndDragons, gadgetreviews, GamingPodcast, geekculture, GeminiAI, GenCon, Kickstarter, MandalorianAndGrogu, MicrosoftTeams, MobileGaming, MousePIForHire, OLEDLaptop, pcgaming, Plex, PlexServer, retrogaming, ScentedDice, ShawnDeWeerd, SteamDeck, SteamGaming, StudioWoe, TabletopGaming, TechNews, techpodcast, TechtalkRadio, WindowsXP, WWDC2026

Scented Dice, AI Lies & Bubble Pop Addictions – EP480

This week on TechtalkRadio, Andy Taylor and Shawn DeWeerd explore the tech, gaming, and gadget stories making headlines — along with one of the most creative gaming accessories we’ve ever featured. From addictive mobile games and ultra-thin laptops to AI assistants that still get things wrong, this episode blends humor, nostalgia, and real-world techtalk.

Andy and Shawn discuss the surprisingly addictive Bubble Pop Origin mobile game, the new ASUS Zenbook A16 with its stunning 3K OLED display and Snapdragon AI-powered processor, plus what Apple may reveal during WWDC. The conversation also dives into Copilot, Gemini, ChatGPT, and why AI tools still require a healthy dose of skepticism. Along the way, the hosts reminisce about retro computers, Windows XP builds, DOS gaming, wired keyboards, old MP3 players, and classic gaming memories.

Special guest Brent Critchfield from Studio Woe joins the show to talk about his unique “Baron Smelly Bones” scented gaming dice currently launching on Kickstarter. The discussion covers how the dice were created, why smell can enhance tabletop gaming experiences, and the incredible reactions gamers have had to scents inspired by coffee, fire, storms, forests, and magical spells.

The episode also features a bizarre Microsoft Teams story involving fired IT workers accidentally recording their own cybercrime confession, a look at the upcoming game Mouse PI for Hire, thoughts on Plex media servers, and anticipation for The Mandalorian and Grogu arriving in theaters.

If you love gaming culture, gadgets, retro tech, AI discussions, tabletop gaming, and fun conversations about the ever-changing world of technology, this week’s TechtalkRadio has something for you.

TechtalkRadio #Technology #Gaming #AI #ASUS #WWDC #DungeonsAndDragons #Kickstarter #Plex #Steam #RetroGaming #ChatGPT #TabletopGaming #TechPodcast

May 15, 2026May 15, 2026 Andy TaylorTechtalkRadioADSBExchange, AIPhotoRestoration, BubblePopOrigin, CutTheCord, DigitalPreservation, GenealogyResearch, JapanTravelTech, PhotoRestoration, PhotoScanning, TechnologyPodcast, TechtalkRadio, TravelGadgets, TravelTech, VoltageConverters, WalmartTechDeals

TechtalkRadio – Flight Apps, Travel Tech & AI Photo Restoration – EP479

This week on TechtalkRadio, Travel tech, Aviation apps, Retro family discoveries, AI photo restoration, Streaming frustrations, and even a little Bubble Pop obsession are covered with Andy Taylor, Shawn DeWeerd, and Justin Lemme The Episode kick off by talking about Justin’s upcoming trip to Japan and the tech challenges that come with international travel — from voltage differences and outlet adapters to keeping devices charged during a 12-hour flight. Justin tells us why getting the adaptors for the country you are visiting is important. The conversation also dives into airline Wi-Fi and finding out if Starlink is available on the flight, Also keeping occupied with Steam Deck gaming on long flights, and useful tools like FlightAware and ADS-B Exchange for aviation fans on the ground

Shawn had a busy week and shares stories from producing and directing a massive international chamber music competition livestream, The Fischoff, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage cameras, streaming systems, and production crews during an 11-hour broadcast event.

Andy also shares a fascinating genealogy rabbit hole after discovering long-lost family history connected to Burma and India through online archives and vintage photographs. The discussion naturally expands into preserving family memories, with the team debating whether AI-powered photo restoration tools are a great way to preserve history or if traditional untouched photos should remain as they are.

Listeners also get a lively conversation about movie search frustrations, the “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon,” including a great find with a website, The Oracle of Bacon. A Listener question about whether it’s finally time to cut the cord from cable television, what to think about and why streaming services are starting to feel just as expensive as traditional CableTV. The crew also touches on the rise of FAST TV, subscription fatigue, and the growing number of ads appearing even on paid streaming platforms.

To wrap things up, Andy shares some surprising Walmart tech bargains on gaming PC hardware, Shawn discusses a major cyberattack impacting schools using the Canvas learning platform during finals week, and Justin previews the gadgets and camera gear he’ll be bringing along to Japan.

April 23, 2026April 23, 2026 Andy TaylorAmazon Prime, Computer Games, Computers, Consumer Electronics, Hardware, Health and Fitness, Home Theater, Streaming Video, Technology CompaniesAI in education, Apple News, Digital Privacy, Digital Signage, Fire TV, Streaming Devices, tech podcast, TechtalkRadio, Weather Tech

TechtalkRadio Episode 477 – Hail, Apple, and Why Is This Still 1080p?!

This week on TechtalkRadio, Andy Taylor, Shawn DeWeerd, and Justin Lemme kick off with Shawn sharing a wild camping story—where YouTube weather streamer Ryan Hall helped them track a fast-moving storm that quickly turned dangerous. It sparks a discussion about the growing role of independent content creators and how platforms like YouTube are reshaping how we consume real-time information and entertainment

The guys break down the latest news from Apple with Tim Cook stepping aside as CEO of Apple and John Ternus stepping into the role. The team explores Apple’s successes, missteps, and whether the company can catch up in the rapidly evolving AI space. Justin shares with a discussion on “de-Googling”—a growing movement toward reclaiming personal data through alternative operating systems like GrapheneOS. Does this conflict with the trade-offs between convenience and control in today’s connected world?

Amazon shares news about a New Slimmer Amazon Fire Stick HD and FAST (Free Ad Supported Television) channels. The New Device ditches the previous Fire OS and is now run on Linux-based Vega OS. No Power Brick needed, it can run off a USB-C Port, and it does come with a USB-C to USB A Cable. It still has the guys wondering about the puzzling decision to stick with 1080p in a 4K world.

Amanda is back on the show to talk AI in education—what’s really happening in classrooms right now and how schools are handling it. She dives into the opportunities, the challenges, and what parents should be paying attention to.

Later, the crew answers a listener question about digital signage, offering practical solutions—from simple USB-based displays to more advanced platforms like Bright Sign or XOGO.AI. Justin shares a almost celebrity encounter which opens a discussion of the Nicest and grumpiest celebs we have encountered. The guys also talk about the gamer so focused on her bubbles, police were called which opens up a discussion of gamers in their 90s, proving that tech truly spans generations.

April 14, 2026April 14, 2026 Andy TaylorTechtalkRadioactive play for kids, bluey atv ride on, Bluey toys, educational toys, family friendly tech, Fox 11 Tucson, KMSB Fox 11, learning through play, mario kids toys, Nex Playground, Nintendo mario toys, screen time alternatives, tech for kids, tech toys review, TechtalkRadio, tucson tech news

Less Screen Time, More Play: Fun Tech for Kids with Mario and Bluey

In this week’s Talking Tech segment on KMSB Fox 11 News 13, Andy Taylor explores a growing trend in technology—tools and toys designed to help kids take a break from screens while still engaging with interactive and educational experiences.

After showcasing a variety of gadgets at the Sunflower Computer Club in Marana, one standout featured previously on Talking Tech was the NEX Playground, an interactive system that turns your TV into a motion-based gaming experience. Kids can physically participate in games, blending screen time with movement and social interaction.

Nintendo is also expanding beyond traditional gaming with its My Mario line, offering books, building sets, and hybrid digital experiences that encourage creativity, reading, and hands-on play.

For outdoor fun, Andy highlights a ride-on ATV themed around Bluey. The Bluey 12v ATV With Surfboard is Designed for younger riders, it offers a safe, battery-powered way for kids to explore while enjoying familiar sounds and characters. Of course it is decorated in Bluey Style! While the Weight limit is about 66lbs and can reach a top speed of 3mph, Andy decided to have Sora, before it goes aways, allow him a virtual experience of Riding!

The takeaway: technology isn’t just about more screen time—it can also be a bridge to more active, creative, and balanced play.

March 7, 2026March 7, 2026 Andy TaylorAI, Apple, Cameras, Computers, Consumer Electronics, Entertainment, Google, Hardware, Microsoft Windows 11, Movies, Music, Photoshop, Security, TechtalkRadio, WyzeAIethics, AIMusic, apple, ArtificialIntelligence, ConsumerTechnology, GoogleNest, homesecuritycameras, iPhone17E, MacBookNeo, SmartHomeTechnology, SunoAI, TechNews, TechnologyPodcast, TechtalkRadio, WyzeCameras

Episode 472 – MacBook Neo Is Official, AI Music Gets Real & Choosing the Right Security Camera | TechtalkRadio

This week on TechtalkRadio, Andy and Shawn open with condolences for Justin, who’s away for a couple weeks after a loss in the family. From there, the conversation swings into Shawn’s very real-world tech life as a broadcast engineer at Notre Dame—juggling a marathon Saturday that included multiple live productions across different networks and platforms. They also touch on the frustration of missing major industry conferences like NAB and Infocom due to schedule collisions, while still keeping an eye on the one event Shawn refuses to miss: Gen Con, the massive tabletop gaming convention he’s attended for over a decade.

Andy shares some features of the K19+ — Andy shows the K19+ Hidden Camera Detector Feature

Shawn shares a Multi-Function Switch together with a Wyze Switch — Andy shows the K19+ Hidden Camera Detector Feature

The middle of the show dives into the growing “ownership problem” in modern tech—especially as it relates to phones, computers, and cloud services. Andy and Shawn react to Apple’s latest headlines, including talk of a more affordable iPhone option and what a lower-cost iOS device could mean for people who don’t want (or can’t justify) flagship pricing. That naturally leads to a bigger discussion: device upgrade fatigue, the rising cost of PC parts like RAM and storage, and the creeping shift toward renting everything—software, storage, even processing power—through subscriptions and cloud instances.

The Final after Adjusting Eye Color in Photoshop — Final after Photoshop Eye Layer

Original Photo of Gloria before attending a KLPX Ozzy Event — Final after Photoshop Eye Layer

AI is the big philosophical thread this week. They debate the ethical and emotional cost of AI-generated content—how it’s getting harder to tell what’s real, why disclosure matters, and what happens when companies replace human creativity because AI is cheaper and “good enough.” Andy shares a fascinating example using Suno, an AI music generator that created a shockingly convincing song featuring the show’s names—cool, impressive… and immediately uncomfortable once you realize what it represents. They also dig into the fine print reality: even when you prompt the creation, you often don’t truly own it, and rights can disappear the moment you stop paying.

In the second half, the show pivots back to practical tech help with a listener question about home security cameras. Shawn lays out why he’s a fan of Wyze—especially the value of an unlimited camera plan and SD-card local recording—while Andy weighs in with real-world comparisons like Google Nest limitations and other alternatives (including a window-mounted camera option he demoed on TV). The episode wraps with a fun maker-style segment where Shawn explains his DIY hack turning a Wyze smart switch into a portable “smart button,” plus a quick look at an RF/IR detection gadget Andy picked up for travel privacy and hidden camera detection. Finally, they close on fresh Apple rumors—an apparent leak pointing to a lower-cost “MacBook Neo”—and tease next week’s topic: AI journaling with Rosebud.

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