Basic AF: a (mostly) tech podcast

Tom Anderson & Jeff Battersby

Spilling trash, talk, tech, and tea (though Tom says no politics). Plus, games, plenty of Apple tech, or whatever else comes into our heads. It’s a show where we get to hang out and talk tech, talk shit, and have fun every couple of weeks (and sometimes more often - only your podcast app knows for sure). We'll give you the lowdown on the gear we're using, some knowledge bombs to help you use your gear better, and answer listener questions.
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Episodes

2024 Tips & Tricks Show with Gannon Nordberg
Feb 19 2024
2024 Tips & Tricks Show with Gannon Nordberg
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!Gannon Nordberg joins us again for the 2024 Tips & Tricks Show! Over a dozen new tips & tricks for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS and more!You can find Gannon’s work at levelonenerd.net - Simple tutorials to level up your Apple tech game, delivered straight to your inbox every 2 weeks for free. Go sign up for his newsletter!Links from the show:Use profiles in Safari on MacTurn off Listening History in Apple Music with a Focus ModePlay music together in a car with SharePlay and Apple MusicEdit portraits on iPadMake stickers from your photos on iPhoneSearch in Messages on iPhoneEasily change photo aspect ratiosChange the color of links and highlights in NotesSee time spent in daylightHow to Automatically Change Your Apple Watch Face Based on Time or LocationUse the Smart Stack to show timely widgets on Apple WatchHazel for MacContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
Apple Vision Pro with Gannon Nordberg
Feb 5 2024
Apple Vision Pro with Gannon Nordberg
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!Gannon Nordberg returns to the show and Jeff got his hands on the new Apple Vision Pro at the Danbury, CT Apple store! JB shares his first impressions on everything, from the initial setup experience to exploring the immersive scenes, navigating visionOS, using the Photos app, and excellent Spatial Audio performance. And answers the big question on everyone's mind - did he end up buying it? You can find Gannon’s work at levelonenerd.net - Simple tutorials to level up your Apple tech game, delivered straight to your inbox every 2 weeks for free. Go sign up for his newsletter!Links from the show:Apple Vision Pro EPIC Review - Is This The Future?Apple Vision Pro - Unboxing, Review and demos!Apple Vision Pro REVIEW: Pros and ConsUsing Apple Vision Pro: What It’s Actually Like!Apple Vision Pro review: magic, until it’s notContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
Apple Watch Ban Update, Microsoft Copilot, Clicks Creator Keyboard - News Updates
Jan 8 2024
Apple Watch Ban Update, Microsoft Copilot, Clicks Creator Keyboard - News Updates
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!The year has just begun, and there’s a lot of news for Jeff and Tom to cover:The Apple Watch was banned from sale in the US just before Christmas and then given a reprieve while the case is reviewed; what’s the latest?Apple Vision Pro may arrive in the next 30 daysMicrosoft dropped Copilot AI apps for iOS and iPadOS. How does the service stack up against ChatGPT? And what’s this Copilot key coming up for Windows keyboards?Rumors persist that Siri will be gaining Generative AI capabilities at WWDCThe Clicks Creator Keyboard is a crazy new keyboard for iPhone, so of course Tom ordered one!Links from the show:Apple Watch Sales Ban PausedApple Vision Pro rumored to launch in final week of January and Mark German at Bloomberg is reporting retail launch by FebruaryMicrosoft CoPilot for Mac, iOS, and iPadOSMicrosoft’s new Copilot key is the first big change to Windows keyboards in 30 yearsNew Version of Siri With Generative AI Again Rumored for WWDCClicks Creator Keyboard for iPhoneContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things
Dec 25 2023
These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!In this festive episode, Tom and Jeff cozy up with eggnog and share their favorite tech and media picks from the year. The duo dives into the melancholic melodies of Sufjan Stevens' Christmas music, invoking the holiday spirit. Then, they switch gears to discuss Radio Paradise, an eclectic internet radio station that's been a game-changer in their music listening routines. As they reflect on the tech that made their year special, Jeff tells how Astropad's Rock Paper Pencil for iPad has transformed his editing process and Tom counters with his newfound appreciation for the Bear Notes App, praising its simplicity and elegance. As they exchange stories and recommendations, they also delve into the world of CarPlay, discussing its convenience and limitations. With a few other recommendations in between, he episode rounds off with Jeff's thoughts on the excellent 14” MacBook Pro. Join the boys for a tech-filled holiday episode that's as informative as it is entertaining.Links from the show:Sufjan Stevens Songs for ChristmasRadio ParadiseAstropad Rock Paper PencilBear Notes AppField Notes BrandCarPlayHighland ProPhoto Shuffle on iPad14” MacBook ProContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
The Electric Vehicle's Long-Haul Challenge with Greg Battersby
Nov 27 2023
The Electric Vehicle's Long-Haul Challenge with Greg Battersby
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!In this episode, we are joined by Jeff’s brother Greg to discuss his new electric vehicle, the Subaru Solterra. This episode delves into the heart of mid-range electric vehicles' capabilities and challenges, highlighting the nuances of planning and executing a long journey in an EV. Greg’s California adventure from Orange County to the Bay Area becomes a compelling case study on the realities of today's electric vehicle technology.The episode provides a candid exploration of the challenges faced by mid-range electric vehicles on extended trips, from the apprehension of range anxiety to the realities of managing battery life and charging strategies. Greg's experience becomes a compelling narrative about the practicalities of EV travel and the obstacles that still need to be overcome.Links from the show:EV Sales Are in a Slump — Why Aren’t More Car Buyers Going Electric?Here's why people aren't buying EVs in spite of price cuts and tax breaks.Subaru SolterraWattEVContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
Riding Shotgun: Inside the Subie & YOU! Podcast with Rafael Ruiz
Oct 16 2023
Riding Shotgun: Inside the Subie & YOU! Podcast with Rafael Ruiz
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!Ever wondered how to turn a passion into a successful podcast? Join us as we chat with Rafael Ruiz, the charismatic host of the Subie & YOU! podcast, which has amassed over 140 episodes and an impressive 100,000+ downloads. Discover how Rafael harnessed the power of Instagram and the enthusiastic Subaru community to create an engaging and popular podcast. We get under the hood of his podcasting journey, exploring how he cleverly used collaborations and guest features to rev up his listener numbers. Listen in as Rafael gives us a peek into his podcast production process, sharing valuable insights gleaned from recording, editing and managing his hit show.  So buckle up and get ready for a ride along with Rafael. Show links:Subie & YOU! PodcastSubie & YOU! on InstagramRafael's Crosstrek Instagram PageSubie Adventures on InstagramSubie Adventures NewsletterAccentrek DesignsCapCut AppContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
iPhone 15 Pro Max First Impressions, watchOS 10 Upgrade Remorse
Oct 2 2023
iPhone 15 Pro Max First Impressions, watchOS 10 Upgrade Remorse
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!Jeff upsized to the iPhone 15 Pro Max in titanium titanium (what?) and has some thoughts, and perhaps just a tiny bit of buyer's remorse. We talk Action button, new cameras, and weight and size comparisons with his previous iPhone 13 Pro. Is it all enough to justify his upgrade? Maybe not.Speaking of remorse, Tom ain't happy with some of the changes Apple has made in watchOS 10. With a new way to switch watch faces, removal of Favorites from the Timers app, giving Control Center a dedicated button, a silly change in the Workout app, and the double press of the Digital Crown no longer being an App Switcher, there's a lot different, and not necessarily in a good way. We also talk a little about macOS Sonoma and iOS 17. Links from the show:iPhone 15: A Photographers Review - Tyler StalmanwatchOS - 10 Things I Hate About You - RedditContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
Apple Event: New Apple Watches & iPhones, Buying Recommendations
Sep 18 2023
Apple Event: New Apple Watches & iPhones, Buying Recommendations
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!Hey there tech enthusiasts! Ready to immerse yourself in a refreshing conversation about the latest Apple watches and iPhones? Good! Because we're about to recap Apple's Wonderlust event and help you understand their features and decide if they're worth your hard-earned money. We kick off with a humorous yet enlightening chat about a Washington Post quiz that questions the necessity of a smart watch. But hey, we love our Apple watches, and we're not afraid to tell you why! Let's turn the gears a notch; we're diving into the heart of the matter — Apple Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches. We scrutinize privacy concerns with the new Siri features, discuss the double-tap gesture convenience, brighter displays, and new bands (and a new material, FineWoven). We also explore the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro, their new color options, the transition from Lightning to USB-C, and new cameras.Links from the show:WaPo: Is a smartwatch right for you? Our quiz can help you decide.Bullstrap MagSafe iPhone CasesiOS 17iPadOS 17watchOS 10macOS SonomaApple Watch Series 9Apple Watch Ultra 2iPhone 15iPhone 15 ProContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.
iPhone Event Preview, Betas Update, and Can the iPad Be Your Only Computer?
Sep 4 2023
iPhone Event Preview, Betas Update, and Can the iPad Be Your Only Computer?
Question or Comment? Send us a Text Message!Are you ready for a trip down memory lane? We kick things off with a discussion on the resurgence of USENET, exploring why it's making a comeback and how it has evolved over the years. Join us as we unravel the history and significance of this online forum, shedding light on its enduring relevance in the digital age.We'll also give you the latest news from around the Apple world, including Apple putting the 2017 MacBook Pro into "Vintage" status, and a preview of the "Wonderlust" event coming up on September 12th, where Apple will announce new models of the iPhone and Apple Watch, and tell us the release dates for the new operating systems. Speaking of those, Jeff gives us an update on how the betas are progressing.We wrap up our discussion by exploring the potential of the iPad as an "only computer" device. Should you do it? Can you do it? Well, it depends, and we're here to help you figure it all out. Links from the show:USENET, the OG social network, rises again like a text-only phoenix2017 MacBook Pro with Touch Bar now considered ‘vintage’ and won’t get macOS 14Apple EventGiving up the iPad-only travel dreamContact Us Drop us a line at feedback@basicafshow.com You’ll find Jeff at @reyespoint on Threads and @reyespoint@mastodon.sdf.org on MastodonFind Tom at @tomfanderson on Twitter, and @tomanderson on ThreadsJoin Tom’s newsletter, Apple Talk, for more Apple coverage and tips & tricks.Show artwork by the great Randall Martin Design Enjoy Basic AF? Leave a review or rating! Review on Apple PodcastsRate on SpotifyRecommend in Overcast Intro Music: Psychokinetics - The Chosen Apple MusicSpotify Show transcripts and episode artwork are AI generated and likely contain errors and general silliness.