MacVoices

GM’s crackdown on an aftermarket CarPlay retrofit sparks another discussion over customer choice, data ownership, and the broader right-to-repair movement. Panelists Dave Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea criticize GM’s control over vehicle customization and note rising EV sales despite backlash. The conversation also briefly looks ahead to Apple’s upcoming WWDC, with speculation about new announcements and community events surrounding the developer gathering.

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV23219.mp3

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Show Notes:

Chapters:

01:20 GM's Control Over CarPlay and Customer Response.

06:25 The Right to Repair Debate.

09:44 Impact of Tariffs on Vehicle Choices.

18:02 Upcoming WWDC Announcements.

21:16 Insights from Last Year's WWDC Events.

25:06 Anticipating This Year's WWDC Experience.

Links:

GM cracks down on aftermarket CarPlay retrofit solution

https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/21/gm-cracks-down-on-aftermarket-carplay-retrofit-solution/

WWDC 2025 is kicking off June 9

https://sixcolors.com/post/2025/03/wwdc-2025-is-kicking-off-june-9

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The MacVoices Live! panel of Dave Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea discuss the controversial book Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams, detailing internal issues at Facebook and the Streisand effect of its attempted suppression. Other topics include Apple’s patent victory, changes to the Apple Card network, and the new lossless audio feature exclusive to USB-C AirPods Max. A unique magnetic charging stand for headphones also gets a shout-out.

This edition of MacVoices is supported by The MacVoices Slack. Available all Patrons of MacVoices. Sign up at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:12 Introduction to MacVoices

00:32 Health Updates and Show Cancellations

05:32 Spring Backgrounds and Crocus Colors

07:50 Facebook's Careless People Book Discussion

10:31 Curiosity About Banned Books

11:51 Reactions to the Facebook Book Ban

12:56 The Impact of the Book's Revelations

17:20 Apple Patent Victory Announcement

18:54 Apple Card Updates and News

21:35 AirPods Max Gain Lossless Audio

31:23 Headphone Recommendations and Wrap-Up

Links:

“Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism” by the ex-Facebook employee Sarah Wynn-Williams

https://amzn.to/429s2hB

Apple wins in patent infringement battle with a patent troll Apple wins in patent infringement battle with a patent troll

https://appleworld.today/2025/03/apple-wins-in-patent-infringement-battle-with-a-patent-troll/

Apple lowers interest rate for Apple Card Savings Account

https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/25/apple-card-savings-lower-interest-rate/

Visa and American Express Vying to Win Apple Card Deal in 'Fierce’ Fight

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/04/01/visa-american-express-apple-card-deal/

Magnetic dongle for AirPods Max

https://amzn.to/4iZs1nB

AirPods Max to Gain Lossless Audio and Low-Latency Audio in iOS 18.4

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/03/24/airpods-max-lossless-audio-coming-april/

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Amazon is shifting away away from on-device processing for Alexa, both raising and re-igniting privacy concerns. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flaingan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea explore tools for deleting old social media posts in light of changing norms and AI training risks. Other topics include AI tools refusing to assist programmers, content ownership in the digital age, and Sonos dropping plans for a streaming box. Privacy, control, and tech ethics take center stage in a wide-ranging conversation.

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV25106.mp3

This edition of MacVoices is supported by MacVoices After Dark. What happens before and after the shows is uncensored, on-topic, off-topic, and always off the wall. Sign up as a MacVoices Patron and get access! http://patreon.com/macvoices

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:06 Introduction to MacVoices

05:51 Amazon's New A-Lady Features

11:09 Concerns About Privacy and Smart Devices

12:10 Deleting Past Social Media Posts

19:19 Ownership of Online Content

22:07 The Nature of Social Media Conversations

25:26 AI Refusal to Assist Programmers

28:32 Mac Conference Announcement

31:05 Closing Thoughts and Farewells

Links:

Everything you say to your Echo will be sent to Amazon starting on March 28 https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/03/everything-you-say-to-your-echo-will-be-sent-to-amazon-starting-on-march-28/

'Redact' Can Delete Your Posts From 28 Different Social Networks

https://lifehacker.com/tech/redact-deletes-posts-28-social-networks-and-services

AI coding assistant refuses to write code, tells user to learn programming instead https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/03/ai-coding-assistant-refuses-to-write-code-tells-user-to-learn-programming-instead/

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Should the Apple Vision Pro qualify as a wearable? Chuck Joiner, Brittany Smith, David Ginsburg, Brian Flaingan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby, and Jim Rea debate the issue, with most agreeing it does, though it’s unlike traditional wearables such as the Apple Watch. They also discuss Sonos canceling its rumored TV streaming box, viewing it as a smart move in a crowded market. Ideas are shared about how Sonos could better integrate home audio and video without competing directly with Apple or Roku, and some of the challenges of setting up a home theater.

http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV25105.mp3

This MacVoices episode is supported by Notion. Work faster, write better, and think bigger. Try it for free today at notion.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:29 Apple Vision Pro Discussion

13:21 Sonos TV Streaming Box Cancellation

23:02 Home Theater Integration Challenges

Links:

The AmberMac Show Ep004: Trump on Crypto, Wearable Tech, & the Future of Work

https://ambermac.com/the-ambermac-show-ep004-trump-crypto/

Sonos cancels Apple TV 4K competitor, per report

https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/12/sonos-cancels-apple-tv-4k-competitor-per-report/

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An all-hands-on-deck MacVoices Live! panel of Chuck Joiner, Brittany Smith, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jeff Gamet, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Mark Fuccio, Web Bixby and Jim Rea discusses Apple’s transparency with Apple Intelligence data reports, controversy over the UK’s secret iCloud access order, and skepticism around a new Apple Maps partner app. Concerns are raised about privacy, third-party data collection, and user trust. The group also explores how Apple is handling AI differently from competitors and continues improving Maps despite early setbacks.

Notion

This MacVoices is supported by Notion. Work faster, write better, and think bigger. Try it for free today at notion.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:11 MacVoices Live Introduction

04:49 The Return of Bluebirds

15:40 UK iCloud Controversy

19:33 Apple Maps New Initiative

Links:

The Daily Beans

https://www.dailybeanspod.com

Apple Intelligence and privacy on iPhone

https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/apple-intelligence-and-privacy-iphe3f499e0e/ios

Activist Groups Challenge UK Demand for Apple Encryption Backdoor

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/03/14/activist-groups-challenge-uk-apple-backdoor/

Apple launches new Surveyor app to help improve Apple Maps

https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/14/apple-maps-new-app/

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Utah’s new law requiring app store age verification sparks debate about privacy, effectiveness, and youth circumvention tactics. Panelists Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Jim Rea, and Web Bixby discuss on-device versus external data handling, parental controls, and implications for user privacy. They also discuss Apple’s immersive Vision Pro Metallica concert experience and explore whether the quality and versatility of virtual reality justifies its premium cost.

MacVoices is supported by the new MacVoices Discord, our latest benefit for MacVoices Patrons. Sign up, get access, and jin the conversations at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:05 Age Verification in Utah

08:42 Parental Controls Discussion

09:59 Apple Vision Pro Concert Experience

14:49 Social Media Connections and Wrap-Up

Links:

Utah becomes the first state to pass an app store age-verification bill and require parental consent for minors to download apps; the bill heads to the governor

https://www.theverge.com/news/624981/utah-app-store-age-verification-bill

Apple announces new immersive concert experience for Apple Vision Pro

https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/11/apple-announces-new-immersive-concert-experience-for-apple-vision-pro/

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The MacVoices Update for 2025-03 features updates on the MacVoices Live! schedule update both past and future, a response to two contradicting emails, and a note about MacVoices Magazine. The update wraps with the monthly support and what our Patreon subscribers are more important and appreciated than ever.

Show Notes:

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The MacVoices Live! panel explores Sesame's AI voice assistant, highlighting its realism and conversational depth, and discusses a razor brand's surprising use of OnlyFans after being shadowbanned on TikTok. The conversation with Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Jim Rea, and Web Bixby also touches on marketing strategies, and the evolving reputations of content platforms like OnlyFans and Reddit.

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by our Patreon supporters. Get access to the MacVoices Slack and MacVoices After Dark by joining in at Patreon.com/macvoices.

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:10 Introduction to MacVoices

01:16 Exploring Sesame's AI Voice Companion

03:11 Emotional Connections with AI Voices

04:52 OnlyFans: A New Marketing Strategy

07:11 The Controversy of TikTok Bans

11:38 Analyzing PR Strategies and Publicity

12:49 Eco-Friendly Products for Outdoor Enthusiasts

16:08 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement

Links:

Talking with Sesame's AI voice companion is amazing and creepy - see for yourself

https://www.zdnet.com/article/talking-with-sesames-ai-voice-companion-is-amazing-and-creepy-see-for-yourself/

This shaving brand was banned on TikTok, so it started an OnlyFans

https://www.fastcompany.com/91291334/this-shaving-brand-was-banned-on-tiktok-so-it-started-advertising-on-onlyfans

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Our conversation with Marty Jencius of ThePodTalk.net continues as he shares his podcasting workflow, editing strategies, distribution approaches, and outlines how he leverages AI and automation tools for promotion. He details his experiences with Spotify, CoScheduler, and podcast website management. Marty also highlights his diverse portfolio of shows and encourages aspiring podcasters. (Part 2)

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Conference and Expo in Crystal Lake IL on July 11 - 13. Take advantage of the Early Bird registration until March 29!

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:08 Podcasting Insights with Marty Gensius

00:56 Editing Audio and Video

04:27 Publishing Strategies

08:36 Web Presence for Podcasts

11:47 Leveraging AI for Promotion

15:54 Overview of Marty's Shows

21:21 The Joy of Podcasting

22:56 Encouragement for New Podcasters

26:12 Closing Thoughts on Podcasting

Links:

Ecamm

Workona

Elgato Stream Deck MK.2

TimeBolt

Auphonic

Cleanvoice

Libsyn

CoSchedule

Guests:

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

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Marty Jencius is a podcasting machine, with five currently active podcasts listed on his web site, ThePodTalk.net. We cover his deep passion for podcasting, from his early radio background to producing multiple shows today. Tools, workflows, and the evolution from audio to video production are discussed with real-world examples. Marty shares insights on gear, editing techniques, and software that streamline the process. His enthusiasm highlights podcasting’s creative appeal and accessibility for anyone interested in getting started. (Part 1)

MacVoices is supported by Macstock Conference and Expo in Crystal Lake IL on July 11 - 13. Take advantage of the Early Bird registration until March 29!

Show Notes:

Chapters:

00:08 Podcasting Passion

03:44 Swag and Surprises

04:04 The Allure of Podcasting

06:30 Early Podcasting Experiences

12:15 Transition to Video

13:29 Embracing New Technologies

18:20 Workflow Innovations

22:56 Editing Techniques26:19 The Conversation Continues

Links:

Ecamm

Workona

Elgato Stream Deck MK.2

TimeBolt

Auphonic

Cleanvoice

Libsyn

CoSchedule

Guests:

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Support:

Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon

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MacVoices Page on Facebook:

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