Blog Archives

iOS 18

18/9/2024

iOS 18: A Major Update for iPhone Users

Apple has announced that iOS 18, the latest update for its iPhone operating system, will be available to the public tomorrow. This major update brings a host of new features and improvements designed to enhance the user experience.

One of the standout features in iOS 18 is the ability to customise home screens. Users can now rearrange app icons, add widgets, and even change the background to suit their personal preferences. This level of customization offers a more personalised and efficient way to interact with their devices.

The redesigned control centre is another significant addition. With a cleaner and more intuitive layout, users can quickly access essential settings and controls like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and brightness. The control centre can also be customised to include frequently used shortcuts.

iMessages has also received a number of enhancements in iOS 18. Users can now lock specific conversations behind Face ID or Touch ID for added security. Additionally, there are new features for collaboration and sharing, making it easier to work on projects with others.

For those who struggle to remember passwords, the new Passwords app offers a secure and convenient solution. The app can generate, store, and autofill passwords for various websites and apps.

Overall, iOS 18 is a substantial update that brings a range of improvements to the iPhone experience. From personalised home screens to enhanced security features, there's something for everyone in this latest release

Ep232

Listener Question - How do I see all Window Apps

17/9/2024

Click the Search bubble next to the Start Flag to see your Recent Opened Apps
Click the Flag to see Pinned Apps
Find the All Apps button (above the pinned apps) to expand the list
You can also search for Programs then Add Remove Programs to (Uninstall edit etc…)

Good AAA Power Bank

17/9/2024

OK So, at some point in your life with phones and other battery powered devices, you will need to use a power bank and will likely purchase one to tray and make your devices last a year or 2 longer…

…So, a good power bank is a must-have in today's tech-obsessed world. The GOODaaa Power Bank delivers on that promise with a rugged design, impressive capacity, and a host of handy features.

Powerhouse Performance
With a massive 36,000mAh capacity, the GOODaaa Power Bank can keep your devices juiced for days on end. Whether you're a heavy phone user, a tablet enthusiast, or a gadget junkie, this power bank has the juice to keep your devices running.
Solar-Powered Charging: Off-the-Grid Convenience
One of the standout features of the GOODaaa Power Bank is its solar charging panel. This means you can recharge the power bank using the power of the sun, making it ideal for outdoor adventures or emergencies. While it might not be the fastest charging method, it's a handy backup when you're far from a wall outlet.
Versatility is Key
The GOODaaa Power Bank isn't just a power source; it's a versatile gadget. With four cables and six outputs, you can charge multiple devices simultaneously, from smartphones and tablets to smartwatches and wireless earbuds. Plus, the built-in flashlight is a handy addition for those unexpected dark situations.
Wireless Charging: A Touch of Magic
The wireless charging pad on the power bank is a nice touch, allowing you to charge your compatible devices without the hassle of cables. However, it's important to note that you'll need to position your device correctly on the pad for optimal charging. A slight misalignment could result in no charging or slow charging.
The Verdict: A Rugged Powerhouse with a Solar Twist
The GOODaaa Power Bank is a fantastic investment ($100) for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile power source. With its impressive capacity, solar charging capabilities, and multiple charging options, it's a must-have for tech enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Just remember to keep an eye on your device placement for wireless charging to ensure maximum efficiency.

At MITE Radio our product recommendations are impartial, purely for the benefit or our listeners and readers, and not influenced by any financial benefits.

https://www.goodaaa.net/power_bank/

Snap Your Windows (Windows 11)

17/9/2024

Snap Layouts: A Powerful Tool for Windows 11 Multitasking

Windows 11's Snap Layouts feature has optimised the way users can organise and manage multiple windows on their desktops. Building upon the traditional snap-and-resize functionality introduced in Windows 7, Snap Layouts offers a more intuitive and efficient way to create customised window arrangements.

Key Features of Snap Layouts:

Hover Menu: A convenient hover menu appears over the Maximise button, providing a variety of layout options.
Flexible Arrangements: Choose from various layouts, including one large window on the left with two on the right, or three windows in a row.
Customizable Layouts: Tailor your window arrangements to suit your specific workflow and screen size.
Keyboard Shortcuts: Use keyboard shortcuts like Windows Key-Left Arrow to quickly snap windows to specific positions.

How to Use Snap Layouts:

Hover over the Maximise button: A menu will appear with layout options.
Select your desired layout: Choose the arrangement that best suits your needs.
Move windows into place: Drag and drop your open windows into the designated areas.

You can also drag your windows to the top middle and place it on the grid options

NGate Malware

17/9/2024

NGate: A New Threat to Android Users

A new Android malware called NGate is targeting users by stealing data from their NFC chips. This malicious app can capture and relay payment card information, allowing attackers to make unauthorised purchases or withdrawals.

How NGate Works:

Phishing Attack: Victims are lured into installing NGate through phishing emails, SMS messages, or malicious websites.
NFC Data Capture: Once installed, NGate secretly captures NFC data from payment cards in close proximity to the infected device.
Data Relay: The captured data is then sent to the attacker's device, enabling them to clone the victim's card and make unauthorised transactions.

Protecting Yourself from NGate:

Be cautious of unsolicited messages: Avoid clicking on links or downloading apps from unknown sources.
Verify app authenticity: Only install apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store.
Keep your device updated: Ensure your Android device has the latest security patches installed.
Disable NFC when not in use: If you don't frequently use NFC, consider disabling it to reduce the risk of exploitation.

***Google Play Protect (installed on all Android Phones) will help protect your device from malicious apps but always only install apps from the Play Store for added security.

As of now, there is no publicly known information about NGate targeting iOS devices. The malware has been primarily associated with Android platforms.

Ep 231

Listener Question - HDD not detected

4/9/2024

I have a relatively new ext hard drive which works on my old pc but not on my new one. Why would that be?
There could be several potential reasons.

The hard drive may be drawing too much power from the USB ports. Newer PCs don’t provide that much power from USB ports. Try connecting the drive to a rear PC port as these sometimes provide more power than the front ports.
Also try the USB2 (black) and USB 3 ports (blue) to see if there is any difference.
With the drive connected and working on your older PC, try running a disk check to see if there are any problems with the file system preventing it from being read with the new PC.

There are other possibilities: potentially the cable and/or drivers, but these are less likely in my opinion.

Thermacell Mosquito Repeller

4/9/2024

Thermacell Mosquito Portable Adventure Repeller: A Buzz-Kill for Mosquitoes, Not Your Nose

If you're a fan of the great outdoors but not so much the great outdoors' pesky mosquito inhabitants, then the Thermacell Mosquito Portable Adventure Repeller might be your new best friend. This little gadget promises to create a mosquito-free zone without the gross fumes and sticky residue of traditional bug sprays.

Performance: A Buzz-Worthy Repeller
The Thermacell repeller works like a charm. Simply pop in the included cartridges and set it down. Within a few minutes, it creates a 15-foot zone that's virtually mosquito-free. We found it significantly more effective than traditional candles, and the lack of any unpleasant fragrance is a major bonus.

Durability: Built to Last
The Thermacell repeller is built to withstand the elements, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. It's durable, compact, and easy to take with you on camping trips, picnics, or even just your backyard BBQ.

Cost and Cartridges:
The initial cost of the repeller might seem a bit steep ($50), but consider the cost of replacing bug spray bottles and the inconvenience of dealing with sticky residue. Plus, the cartridges are relatively affordable, and they last for quite a while.

How Does it Work?
The Thermacell Mosquito Portable Adventure Repeller works by using a unique heat-based technology to release a non-toxic repellent into the air. This repellent creates an invisible barrier around the device that repels mosquitoes. Here's how it works:

Heat-Based Technology: The device heats up a small cartridge filled with repellent.
Repellent Release: As the cartridge heats up, it releases a subtle, odourless vapour into the air.
Mosquito Repulsion: The vapour creates a protective barrier around the device that repels mosquitoes, preventing them from coming within range.

It's important to note that the repellent used in the Thermacell is non-toxic and safe for humans and pets. The device is also portable and easy to use, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

*Image is created using AI and may not accurately represent the product

Windows Start Button

4/9/2024

One of the stoppers for Windows 10 users moving to 11 (believe it or not) is the change to the Start Menu being in the middle. Well, change it!

Right click the Taskbar and select Taskbar Settings
Find Taskbar Behaviours

Ep230

Quishing

4/9/2024

Quishing: The New QR Code Phishing Scam

QR codes have become an integral part of our digital lives, but they also present a new avenue for cybercriminals.

A type of phishing attack known as "quishing" exploits the popularity of QR codes to deceive users into revealing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.
I’m surprised that this is only just being picked up by cyber criminals, after all this is what popups do - take to you a malicious website for further mayhem.

How Quishing Works:

QR Code Distribution: Scammers create malicious QR codes and distribute them through various channels, including emails, text messages, social media, or even in public places.
Deceptive Landing Pages: When scanned, the QR code directs users to a fraudulent website that appears legitimate.
Information Gathering: Users are prompted to enter sensitive information such as login credentials, personal data, or financial details.
Malware Download: In some cases, scanning the QR code may lead to the download of malicious software onto the user's device.

Recent Quishing Trends:

Sophisticated Tactics: Cybercriminals are employing more advanced techniques to make quishing attacks more convincing, including using legitimate-looking QR codes and creating a sense of urgency.
Targeting Mobile Users: Quishing attacks are increasingly targeting mobile devices, which may have less robust security measures compared to desktop computers.
Real-World Applications: Scammers have been using QR codes in physical locations, such as restaurants or public transportation, to lure unsuspecting victims.

How to Protect Yourself:

Be Cautious of Unsolicited QR Codes: Avoid scanning QR codes from unknown sources or if you're unsure of their legitimacy… if you get to a website that looks dodgy, just close it out and go on with your life.
Verify the URL: Before scanning a QR code, check the URL to ensure it matches the expected website.
Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure your device's operating system and security software are up-to-date to protect against the latest threats.

Games on Netflix

4/9/2024

Netflix has ventured into the gaming world, offering a selection of mobile games to its subscribers at no extra cost. How does it work?

Access: To play Netflix games, you need a Netflix subscription and a compatible mobile device (Android or iOS).
Location: Games are typically found within the Netflix app itself, often in a dedicated games row or tab.
Download: Once you've selected a game, you'll be redirected to your device's app store (Google Play or Apple App Store) to download the game.
No Additional Costs: Netflix games are included in your existing subscription, with no in-app purchases or advertisements.
Profile-Based: Game progress is saved to your Netflix profile, allowing you to continue playing on different devices.

Netflix Games offers a growing library of titles across various genres, providing additional entertainment options for subscribers.

You need an Android device or iOS (iPhone, iPad) device to download and play the games.
Netflix is just the store to give you access to it.

Ep225

BYD’s new PH-EV

4/9/2024

Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled its latest plug-in hybrid, the Seal 07 DM-i, boasting an impressive claimed range of 2000 km. This extraordinary figure will change the way we perceive electric vehicles, offering drivers the best of both worlds: electric efficiency and the peace of mind that comes with a traditional internal combustion engine.

The Seal 07 DM-i comes equipped with two powertrain options and two battery sizes, allowing customers to choose the model that best suits their needs. The combination of electric and petrol power ensures a longer driving range, reducing the frequency of refuelling stops.

Some of the Key Advancements include:

Blade Battery: BYD's proprietary Blade Battery technology is at the heart of the Seal 07 DM-i's extended range. This lithium-iron-phosphate battery is known for its safety and energy density.

DM-i Powertrain: The DM-i (Distributed Electric) powertrain combines a highly efficient internal combustion engine with an electric motor for optimal performance and fuel economy.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): The Seal 07 DM-i is likely to come equipped with a suite of
ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Connected Car Technology: Expect the Seal 07 DM-i to offer advanced connectivity features, such as over-the-air updates, smartphone integration, and voice control.

As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, BYD's Seal 07 DM-i represents an exciting development. If brought to Australia, it could appeal to consumers seeking a balance between environmental responsibility and driving convenience.

Ep225

Editing PDF files the easy way

4/9/2024

Do you use Google Chrome with a Google Account?

Use Google Docs to open and edit PDF files quickly and easily.

With just a few clicks, you can transform your static documents into dynamic text that you can edit, share, and collaborate on. While not perfect, this feature is a quick and easy way to extract information from PDFs.

Google Docs performs Optical Character Recognition (OCR) on PDF files. This means it can convert scanned documents or image-based PDFs into editable text

Here's how to do it:

Upload your PDF or image to Google Drive.
Right-click on the file and select "Open with" > "Google Docs".

Important to note:

Conversion quality depends on the original document's clarity.
Formatting might be lost during the conversion process.
The feature works best with text-heavy documents rather than image-heavy ones.

Give it a try and see how it works for your documents!

Ep225