Katie returns with stories from the waves as she shares her inspiring First Descents surf adventure in Santa Cruz, designed for cancer survivors. Meanwhile, the team gives a full behind-the-scenes breakdown of their latest wild production at Baja SAE Carolina — from broadcasting out of a U-Haul van to dealing with dusty terrain, wireless camera chaos, and even a GoPro that didn’t survive.

Plus:
• Microsoft raises Game Pass prices again
• Minecraft gets educational about climate change
• AI-generated chaos with OpenAI’s Sora
• Why you must log out of your Airbnb streaming accounts…

Hosted by Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, Missy Sorg & Dave Podnar
🎥 Watch the video version & more at AwesomeCast.com

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Topics Covered:

Apple iOS 18.1 and Apple Intelligence:

• Discover the new Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.1, including call recording, transcription, and advanced Siri capabilities.
• Learn how to upgrade to iOS 18.1 beta and find out which devices are compatible.

Call of Duty Returns:

• Explore the return of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 on Xbox Game Pass and its new downloadable content, including WWE character skins.
• Find out about similar gaming experiences on Apple Arcade.

California’s Blockchain Vehicle Titles:

• Understand California’s initiative to digitize vehicle titles using blockchain technology for enhanced security and convenience.

SearchGPT Prototype:

• Get introduced to SearchGPT, a prototype search engine powered by ChatGPT, offering concise answers with citations.
• Compare SearchGPT with traditional search engines like Google.

Gaming Throwback - Rock Band:

• Check out the new Rift Master Wireless Guitar controller for Xbox and PC, perfect for reliving Rock Band nostalgia.
• Learn how the guitar controller integrates with Fortnite’s festival mode.

Show Notes and Links:

• Apple Beta Program: https://beta.apple.com/
• Call of Duty on Game Pass: https://www.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-game-pass
• California DMV Blockchain Initiative: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/
• SearchGPT Waitlist: https://searchgpt.com/
• Rift Master Wireless Guitar: https://www.pdp.com/

Support the Show:

• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast
• Slice on Broadway: https://www.sliceonbroadway.com/
• Sidekick Media Services: https://www.sidekickmediaservices.com/

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes and don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell for the latest updates!

AppleIntelligence #iOS18 #iOS18_1 #AppleIntelligenceFeatures #AppleBetaProgram #CallOfDuty #ModernWarfare3 #XboxGamePass #AppleArcade #Blockchain #CaliforniaDMV #DigitalVehicleTitles #SearchGPT #ChatGPT #GoogleAlternative #RiftMasterWirelessGuitar #PDPGaming #RockBand #Fortnite #FestivalMode #TechNews #Gadgets #AwesomeCast #Podcasting

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Hosted by Mike Sorg in the Sorgatron Media studios in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Co-host Katie Dudas, fresh from a California trip, joins the discussion.

Travel and Amusement Park Experience

Both hosts recently visited Six Flags Magic Mountain, enjoying various rides and sharing their experiences of the thrill rides and their operational status.

Gadgets and Products Discussed

Owala Water Bottle:

Unique features include a flip-up handle and a button-activated opening to avoid touching the mouthpiece, which is beneficial for hygiene.

It functions both as a straw water bottle and an open cup without the risk of spills.

Insulated design keeps water cold for an extended period.

Available in various colors, making it customizable for household use.https://www.target.com/p/owala-freesip-24oz-stainless-steel-water-bottle-alpine-sport/-/A-86722059?sid=3392S&ref=tgt_adv_xsp&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tmnv&DFA=71700000117421189&CPNG=PLA_DVM%2Ba064R000015PcutQAC-SportingGoods_Q1_ExternalSearch_2024-1182321&adgroup=SportingGoods&LID=700000001393753pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9005915&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0MexBhD3ARIsAEI3WHIqVtqMZK0cMKxN9BOwZZtsGNPtxHJbKG9D7q1c9lw_Nyk9nEoq1-kaAlnYEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Starlink Internet:

Tested in the California desert, proving useful for remote internet access.

Mention of multiple Starlink setups seen at the event, suggesting a sponsored or coordinated effort to provide internet.

Discussion on the reliability of Starlink for streaming and potential issues with physical obstructions and handling by other people at the venue.

Tech Tips and Tricks

Discussion on the utility of Apple Watch's walkie-talkie feature during trips.

Tips on posting across multiple social platforms efficiently using Facebook's cross-posting feature to manage content on Instagram and Threads.

Warning about new stringent measures on Facebook regarding image usage and the importance of crediting the source, even when images are from platforms like Canva.

Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

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Water-Resistant Phones: Katie shares a personal anecdote about dropping her phone in a toilet, highlighting the value of water resistance in modern smartphones. This mishap turns into a discussion about the advancements in smartphone durability and the peace of mind that comes with water-resistant features.

The Saga of AirPods: The conversation shifts to the convenience and occasional pitfalls of owning AirPods. From losing them in public places to the challenge of keeping them secure, we delve into personal stories that illustrate the pros and cons of wireless earbuds. The discussion also touches on the importance of AppleCare and the cost of replacing lost components.

AI-Generated Music for Podcasts: We discuss the innovative use of Microsoft's Copilot and Suno to create intro music for the show, showcasing the potential of AI in content creation. This segment emphasizes the evolving role of artificial intelligence in creative processes.

https://app.suno.ai/.../a02b77de-3df6-4fa3-a65a-cdf12f2a4969

https://app.suno.ai/.../1dfe79b2-773d-497a-99d8-d5cb98a3964b

3D-Printed Windpipes: A groundbreaking development in medical technology, we highlight the world's first surgery involving a 3D-printed windpipe. This advancement opens up discussions on the future of organ replacement and the potential for 3D printing in healthcare.https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/breakthrough-3d-printed-organ-windpipe 

AR Glasses for Enhanced Viewing: The episode explores the introduction of affordable AR glasses designed for an immersive video-watching experience. We examine how these glasses could revolutionize personal entertainment and the potential applications in various fields.https://www.xreal.com/us/

Protecting Privacy in Incognito Mode: A critical look at Google's agreement to delete search data from users who utilized incognito mode, sparking a conversation on digital privacy, the expectations of incognito browsing, and the importance of holding tech giants accountablehttps://www.npr.org/2024/04/01/1242019127/google-incognito-mode-settlement-search-history

Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Katie Dudas talks about her recent trip and experiences, including surviving a desert outing and dealing with travel changes due to weather.

Tech Gadgets and Updates:

Discussion on a new travel charger that supports MagSafe and can charge multiple devices simultaneously. Katie shares her positive experience with the product during her travels.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FKZ7M9M?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1

Introduction of Countdown Buddy, an app that creates countdown widgets for upcoming events. The free version allows for one event, while the paid version offers unlimited events and customization.https://apps.apple.com/us/app/countdown-buddy/id1534850579

Highlight of Nvidia’s showcase involving AI-powered robots demonstrated at the GTC conference, related to Project Groot.https://www.cnet.com/videos/nvidia-shows-project-groot-and-disney-bots-at-gtc-conference/

AI and Tech Collaborations:

Speculation on Apple teaming up with Google for AI model Gemini, potentially influencing future iOS features and default search engine settings.https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/17/apple-is-reportedly-exploring-a-partnership-with-google-for-gemini-powered-feature-on-iphones/

Discussion on the impact of Gemini AI on personal organization and the possibility of integrating AI into various aspects of iOS, enhancing user experience.

Entertainment and Media:

Sorg shares his rediscovery of the 2012 Ninja Turtles cartoon on Paramount Plus, discussing its appeal and content.https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-2012/

Introduction of the "Squirrel with a Gun" game, noted for its surprising violence despite the cute protagonist.https://www.tiktok.com/@ign/video/7346751631360281898?_r=1&_t=8kj4ybcvHWZ

Brief mention of Disney experiences and updates, including trips to Epcot and Disneyland.

Miscellaneous Discussions:

Mention of various personal experiences with technology in daily life, such as the use of QR codes in doctor's offices for accessing digital magazines.https://www.facebook.com/reel/380731401492902

Discussion on the usefulness and implementation of AI in daily tasks, including a bike danger detection system. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/03/raspberry-pi-powered-ai-bike-light-detects-cars-alerts-bikers-to-bad-drivers/#ltq8xaezaj0ifkhwbl

Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Awesome Things of the Week

Katie got a new iridescent Hello Kitty iPhone case for the 50th anniversaryhttps://shopsonix.com/products/hello-kitty-50th-anniversary-magsafe-compatible-iphone-case

Chilla got a MagSafe wallet stand for his iPhone that also functions as a standhttps://amzn.to/3QOAZY0

Mike is thankful for the transit app and public transportation improvements in Pittsburgh https://transitapp.com/

Thankful for Tech

Katie is thankful for her variety of external hard drives

Chilla is thankful for all his tech cases for traveling

Mike is thankful for the ease of travel and on-demand services enabled by technology

Other News

Katie used an iPhone cleaning kit with ninja star tools to clean her old phonehttps://amzn.to/3QTazEu

Chilla explained YubiKeys for passwordless authentication and securityhttps://www.engadget.com/yubikeys-are-buy-one-get-one-half-off-for-black-friday-140046543.html

Duolingo added chess and math lessons, has integration with Chess.comhttps://blog.duolingo.com/new-subjects/

Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

hey discuss a new Honda "Motocompacto" electric scooter/bike that folds up into a small size and can fit in a cubicle or car trunk. Priced around $1000.https://motocompacto.honda.com/

Talk about new M3 MacBook Pro models from Apple. Mostly spec bumps but nice upgrades especially compared to older Intel models.https://www.apple.com/macbook-pro/https://www.apple.com/imac/

Discuss how Apple uses iPhone 15 Pros to film their latest event. Impressive results.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3dbG9pAi8I

Michael uses his iPhone 13 Pro to shoot some wrestling/concert footage and is happy with the quality. Phones keep getting more capable for basic video production.

Ruth injures her back, possibly a pinched nerve, and picked up a TENS unit in the meantime.https://www.riteaid.com/shop/rite-aid-3-in-1-tens-ems-heat-device

Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Introduction of musical guest Kidmental and his improv looping skills with a live performance! Check out his work and get your custom sounds at www.kidmental.com/free

Recap of Sorg and Katie’s' trip to rural Ohio for Baja SAE and visits to odd roadside attractions like the largest Cuckoo Clock and Fairie Secret Garden in Sugarcreek, OH

In person experiences testing Honda's wind tunnel and crash facilities

Discussion of new Apple product announcements:

Apple Watch Ultra for extreme athletes

iPhone 15 Pro camera upgrades like automatic portrait mode

Evaluating how new Apple features could benefit media creators

iOS games coming to new iPhones, like Assassin's Creed and Resident Evil

Directly recording video to external drives using new iPhone USB-C

Kidmental's funny reactions to iPhone 15 details and features

Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com

Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Chilla and Sorg are holding down the fort at Sorgatron Media Studios as they bring you this week in tech news, including:

• Of course Chilla is bringing us some Iron Man VR as his Awesome Thing of the Week this week!
• Sorg's Awesome Thing of the Week is space - thanks to his viewing of Apollo 11 and the rabbit hole he found himself in.
• Amanda let us know about the Leo AR Camera app that allows you to do cool things with, ironically enough, astronauts and more!
• Burger King is flame broiling more than its burgers.
• A public library in Bethlehem has a hands-on opportunity for podcasters.
• Apple has done a bit this week, including announcing an arcade gaming subscription service!
• AirPods are getting even better.
• Sorg is letting us know about the new Oculus Rift arriving this spring.
• Konami is celebrating 50 years by bringing Castlevania and Contra to consoles - and we couldn't be happier.
• We've talked about AR things that don't exist - like cats and people. Now there's a whole website dedicated to things that don't exist!
• Apple had an event. We're sharing some of the big ticket items that caught our attention.

After the show remember to:

Eat at Slice on Broadway (@Pgh_Slice) if you are in the Pittsburgh area! It is Awesome! (sliceonbroadway.com)

Want to be part of our studio audience? Hit us up at awesomecast@sorgatronmedia.com and we’ll save you a seat!

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

Follow these awesome people on Twitter: Chilla (@chilla), and Sorg (@Sorgatron)

Have you seen our AwesomeTips videos?

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Remember to check out our friends at the River’s Edge (@RiversEdgePGH) and The 405 Media (@The405Radio) who replay the show on their stream throughout the week!

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment; and view us livestreaming Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Dan Scifo is a Sport Writer covering the Steelers and Penguins at the Latrobe Bulletin. Ben Hull is the bassist for former Flyleaf lead singer Lacey Sturm. Together, they wanted to combine their stories and talk with others who make their dreams come true with the Dream Loud Podcast. We talk about how they got the show together, some of the interesting stories they've heard so far and where they hope to go with their show.

Listen to the Dream Loud Podcast at dreamloudpodcast.podbean.com.

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment. Follow Michael Sorg (@sorgatron) and @AwesomeCast for updates and live streams of our interviews! Subscribe on Facebook,Stitcher, Spreaker, iTunes, and Youtube!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Sorg is all by himself in studio as he’s joined remotely by Chilla from Studio C and Alex Kahrs coming in from Long Beach. This week has some great updates following WWDC, including:

We promise we won’t be talking ALL Apple, but we will touch on some of the news and updates.
Alex is sharing Moovit as his Awesome Thing of the Week.
Sorg is sharing Mega Man on iOS as his Awesome Thing of the Week.
Crossover options for apps is great – but, it’s totally up to the developer to make it happen.
Speaking of apps – Chilla’s Awesome Thing of the Week is news out of WWDC18 about iOS apps on MacOS.
With the Apple updates at WWDC18, if iOS can port over to MacOS – does that mean I can play Fortnite on my Apple TV?
Thanks to Mat Weller for letting us know about the Nerf War at Century III.
Sorg has been playing some BumbleBee on AR thanks to the recent movie trailer.
When Apple talks to us about upcoming upgrades, we listen – and we share.
Apple Watch will be getting some upgrades – including walkie talkie mode!
Viewing websites and menus on Apple Watch? Yes, please.
Will Apple TV be replacing your cable box?
Sorg is playing AR videogames while podcasting.
IBM is shutting down free plans on U-Stream.
Chilla is talking about some podcast implications for Just A Line.
After the show remember to:

Eat at Slice on Broadway (@Pgh_Slice) if you are in the Pittsburgh area! It is Awesome! (sliceonbroadway.com)

Want to be part of our studio audience? Hit us up at awesomecast@sorgatronmedia.com and we’ll save you a seat!

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

Follow these awesome people on Twitter: Alex (@alexanderkahrs), Chilla (@chilla) and Sorg (@Sorgatron)

June 12th is a big day for us! It’s our 8-year anniversary PLUS our 400th episode! (We’ll be doing something fun for the occasion. You should join us.)

Have you seen our AwesomeTips videos?

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Remember to check out our friends at the River’s Edge (@RiversEdgePGH) and The 405 Media (@The405Radio) who replay the show on their stream throughout the week!

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment; and view us livestreaming Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

This week Brian Crawford of The River's Edge rejoins our regulars Katie, Chilla, and Sorg as they talk this week’s tech news, including:

Chilla is loving the Otterbox Avengers: Infinity Wars phone cases!
Katie wants to show your mad skills with Rapchat on her phone.
Brian is upgrading his 20 year old car with the Okra Universal Tablet Air Vent Car Mount for his iPad to play River's Edge on TuneIn.
PIT aims to be the world’s smartest airport by partnering with CMU
We try to see the Google Search Podcast interface on Android phones.

Amazon wants to make robots for the home...
But in the meantime Amazon will deliver packages to your car.
A Nintendo Switch Jailbreak is available!
Porn company wants to reward you for taking shorter showers.
After the show remember to:

Eat at Slice on Broadway (@Pgh_Slice) if you are in the Pittsburgh area! It is Awesome! (sliceonbroadway.com)

Want to be part of our studio audience? Hit us up at awesomecast@sorgatronmedia.com and we’ll save you a seat!

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion!

Follow these awesome people on Twitter: Brian Crawford (@riversedgepgh), Katie Dudas (@Kdudders), John Chichilla (@chilla) and Sorg (@Sorgatron)

Our good friend, Zach Rizza is raising money and awareness through the Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation Team Pittsburgh 2018 Pittsburgh Marathon. Check out his fundraiser page at: https://www.crowdrise.com/dsgfpitt2018/fundraiser/zachrizza

Have you seen our AwesomeTips videos?

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Remember to check out our friends at the River’s Edge (@RiversEdgePGH) and The 405 Media (@The405Radio) who replay the show on their stream throughout the week!

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment; and view us livestreaming Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk

Katie is sharing a dating app for the ladies with Bumble sponsoring a patch on the LA Clippers jerseys.
Our guest Nate Wright is sharing an update on the hyperloop as his Awesome Thing of the Week.
Chilla is telling us about Anchor for podcasting.
Sorg is testing out Anchor on air. He’s looking forward to a deep-dive when he’s off-air.
Sorg is talking about how he uses Final Cut Pro X tools for editing his 360 video clips.
Thanks to Mayor Bill Peduto for pointing us toward Love Pittsburgh and their new space opening in Downtown Pittsburgh.
Fitbit has an Adidas branded smartwatch.
Ford will be rolling Waze as part of their navigation system options.
We may or may not be redesigning the traditional car audio system on this week’s episode.
Amazon made an escape room powered by Alexa. It’s sparking some interesting conversation on the podcast.
Chilla has a great smart watch option for Sorg.
Amazfit has a smart watch that won’t break the bank!
You can visit Disney using Google Maps‘ street view!
Google has a Slack alternative. We’re talking some comparison points.
Nokia and Kolon team up for a smart jacket for first responders.
After the show remember to:

Eat at Slice on Broadway (@Pgh_Slice) if you are in the Pittsburgh area! It is Awesome! (sliceonbroadway.com)

Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we’re sharing and to join the discussion?

Follow these awesome people on Twitter: Katie Dudas (@Kdudders), John Chichilla (@chilla) and Sorg (@Sorgatron)

Our good friend, Zach Rizza is raising money and awareness through the Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation Team Pittsburgh 2018 Pittsburgh Marathon. Check out his fundraiser page at: https://www.crowdrise.com/dsgfpitt2018/fundraiser/zachrizza

Have you seen our AwesomeTips videos?

You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast!

Remember to check out our friends at River’s Edge (@RiversEdgePGH) and The 405 Media who replay the show on their stream throughout the week!

Also, check out sorgatronmedia.com and awesomecast.com for more entertainment; and view us livestreaming Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST!

Support AwesomeCast: Tech and Gadget Talk