In this week’s tech and consumer affairs update, Richard speaks with IT and gadget expert Stephen Fenech from TechGuide about the latest developments shaping how Australians live, shop, and adopt new technology.

The discussion kicks off with the federal government’s proposed electric vehicle road user charge and whether introducing it too early could slow EV adoption. Stephen weighs in on the fairness of road taxation and the importance of timing as more Australians consider switching to electric vehicles amid fuel price pressures.

The conversation then turns to the explosive growth of online marketplaces, with Australians spending a record $18.9 billion in a year. However, this boom has also brought a surge in scams—particularly fake courier payment links targeting buyers and sellers on platforms like Meta’s Facebook Marketplace. Stephen explains how these scams work, why impersonation tactics are becoming more sophisticated, and why trust systems like those used on eBay may be key to reducing fraud.

Next, they unpack rumours around Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone, with reports suggesting engineering challenges could delay its release. If accurate, the device may miss its expected launch alongside the next iPhone lineup, potentially pushing availability into 2026 or beyond.

Finally, the pair explore the rapidly expanding world of 3D printing—from hobbyist household tools to industrial spare parts, medical applications, and even battlefield use cases. Stephen shares his own hands-on experience printing custom household items, highlighting how accessible and practical the technology has become.

A wide-ranging episode covering EV policy, online safety, next-gen smartphones, and the future of manufacturing.

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