The pace of cord-cutting in the United States continues to accelerate, with two major cable companies losing about 1.7 million TV subscribers in just the last six months according to Cord Cutters News. In my latest video we explore this trend and why Comcast isn’t worried about it.
If things keep on this trend, Cord Cutters News predicts the number of TV cord cutters could reach 3.5 million, adding to the 3 million who did so last year.
Despite the significant loss in TV subscribers, the internet business for cable providers is faring much better – as only 298,000 customers dropped their Internet service too. This indicates that most people are retaining their internet service while cutting TV subscriptions. This surprised me given the aggressive rollout of less expensive and arguably superior fiber optic services throughout the United States. But many customers still lack competitive choices for broadband.
Comcast and other cable companies are also capitalizing on bundling services to retain customers. They offer packages that include internet, mobile phone services, home phone service, and even home security, making it hard for customers to switch to other providers.
In regions with competitive alternatives, such as Connecticut, Comcast faces more challenges. My area, for example, has two fiber optic providers (Frontier and GoNetspeed) on top of fixed wireless services from Verizon and T-Mobile and satellite service from SpaceX Starlink. These options allow customers to save money while enjoying similar or better internet speeds and reliability.
Despite the competition, Comcast remains confident. On a recent earnings call they touted the excess capacity in their network, allowing them to handle increased usage and new customers without major upgrades. By the end of 2025, Comcast expects to be 60% overbuilt. Additionally, a large portion of their customer base subscribes to higher-speed tiers, with many opting for 500 megabits or higher, further enhancing their revenue from internet services.
Comcast is also planning to address the disparity between download and upload speeds through their DOCSIS 4.0 deployment. This upgrade will enable symmetrical service offerings, bringing their performance closer to that of fiber optic providers. In some areas, Comcast already offers high-speed services, such as 10 gigabit symmetrical plans, to compete with fiber providers.
But, as the network becomes more of a commodity, cost of service will likely be the most important factor in choosing a provider. The increased competition in some regions and technological advancements benefit consumers by driving down prices and improving network performance.
As more people cut the TV cord, however, the impact on the TV side of the industry will be significant, affecting retransmission fees and the viability of broadcast TV moving forward.
As someone who was impressed by the keyboard, I was eager to see how this new addition would perform, especially since it addresses the only major shortcoming of the original keyboard—the lack of a number pad.
The Retro 18 maintains the same aesthetic and feel as the keyboard. It connects independently to your computer, using either a Bluetooth connection, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or a USB Type-C connection. But that means if you have the keyboard already connected via USB directly or with the 2.4ghz dongle, you’ll need to dedicate another USB port to the Retro 18. Bluetooth is also supported which is likely the best solution.
Like the keyboard, the Retro 18 comes in four color schemes: the NES version, which matches my NES-style keyboard, as well as schemes inspired by the Japanese Famicom, Commodore 64, and IBM keyboards. This allows users to maintain a cohesive retro look across their devices. My Retro 18 matched up perfectly with the NES style keyboard I already have.
Priced at around $45, the number pad is equipped with Kailh Box White V2 switches, known for their satisfying click and smooth travel. The key switches are hot-swappable, allowing for easy customization, though it’s worth noting that the number pad, like the keyboard, is not backlit. This might be a drawback for those who need to see the keys in low light, but as a touch typist, I didn’t find it to be a significant issue.
Operating the number pad is straightforward. It has an internal battery with a long lifespan between charges, and the display shows the battery level and power input when charging. One of the standout features is its ability to function as a standalone calculator. By pressing the “calc” button, the number pad switches to calculator mode, disabling input to the host device.
For Windows users, there’s a dedicated button to launch the calculator app, though this feature did not work on my Mac. Unfortunately, the number pad doesn’t offer the same level of key customization as the keyboard, which is a missed opportunity for those who like to tailor their setups.
Despite these minor limitations, the 8bitdo Retro 18 is a solid companion to the retro mechanical keyboard. It feels sturdy, has a satisfying typing experience, and includes the bonus of a built-in calculator. For users who need a reliable and aesthetically pleasing number pad, it’s a worthwhile investment.
My latest video is a review of the budget friendly Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim. This is a low cost laptop from a major manufacturer that costs about the same as some of the more generic cheap laptops you might encounter.
The model I reviewed has an Intel i3-N305 processor, a low-end but capable Alder Lake-N chipset typically found in inexpensive mini PCs. It has 8 GB of DDR5 RAM and 128 GB of slow UFS storage, making this one very similar to an HP Chromebook Plus I looked at a few weeks ago. But this one runs Windows and not ChromeOS.
The storage, however, can be expanded by installing an NVMe hard drive, which is a straightforward process. It was not difficult to pop the bottom panel off the computer to access the components beneath.
The 15.6-inch display, an IPS panel with a 1080p resolution, delivers satisfactory viewing angles and color, but is not suited for professional creative work. It looks to me that it’s likely around 300 nits of overall brightness (Acer did not list the display specifications in their product materials). Though not a touchscreen, the display is quite functional for its price range. The integrated webcam, a modest 720p at 30 frames per second, is just adequate for video calls, with a peculiar filter effect.
Weighing in at 3.75 pounds and constructed entirely out of plastic, the laptop feels reasonably durable despite some flex under pressure. The keyboard and trackpad provide a decent user experience, though the keys could be larger. The inclusion of a small number pad might appeal to some users, despite the cramped layout of certain keys. It does not have a keyboard backlight or fingerprint reader.
Port-wise, the Aspire Go 15 Slim offers a full-service USB Type-C port supporting video output and power delivery. Additionally it has a HDMI output (allowing for two simultaneously display outputs), two USB-A ports, and a headphone/microphone jack.
The downward-firing speakers fall short in audio quality, making external headphones or speakers a necessary accessory for music consumption.
In terms of performance, the laptop handles Microsoft Word and web browsing with ease, though playing back 1080p60 YouTube video revealed some dropped frames, likely an issue that could be fixed with future driver updates. The Speedometer benchmark placed it on par with similarly specced Chromebooks, making it a competent performer for basic tasks.
Battery life spans about 7 to 8 hours under typical usage, though more demanding activities will drain it faster. Gaming tests with older titles like GTA V and PS2 emulations showed acceptable performance at low settings, indicating that while newer games will struggle, there’s plenty of opportunity for older games to run well.
Benchmarks on 3DMark Time Spy revealed performance levels consistent with budget devices, outpaced by older Ryzen processors but still sufficient for less demanding tasks. The fan noise, though constant, remains relatively unobtrusive, helping keep the device cool.
A test with the latest Ubuntu version indicated partial Linux compatibility, with the Mediatek Wi-Fi and Bluetooth card drivers not yet supported.
Overall, the Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim presents a solid option for those looking for a reliable, budget-friendly laptop with better options support versus lesser-known brands.
Although I’m not an expert audiophile, I primarily listen to lossless audio, and the P100’s sound quality truly impressed me. The headphones feature 40mm drivers, providing a balanced range of sound with punchy bass when needed and clear precision across other frequencies. I left the equalizer on its default flat setting, as suggested by Cambridge, and was satisfied with the results.
The headphones are comfortable, featuring synthetic vegan leather ear cups that fit well over my ears and effectively block out ambient noise even without active noise cancellation. The fabric headband is comfortable, and I experienced no significant fatigue after wearing the headphones for several hours. However, the tight fit made it a bit challenging to wear glasses comfortably.
Control-wise, the P100s are straightforward. A physical switch turns the headphones on and off, and pairing via Bluetooth is seamless. They support Bluetooth 5.3 and can connect to two devices simultaneously. Media controls and noise cancellation settings are easily accessible, and the headphones include a Qualcomm QCC 3084 chip for audio processing, which I found satisfactory despite being an entry-level processor.
One drawback is the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack, although the included USB-C cables (including one with a 3.5mm headphone connector) provide alternatives for connecting to devices. The headphones support lossless audio formats such as aptX Lossless over bluetooth, making them ideal for high-quality music listening when connected directly to a device that supports wireless lossless.
The battery life is impressive, with claims of up to 100 hours without active noise cancellation and 60 hours with it.
However, using the headphones while walking revealed an issue: an annoying clicking sound caused by the noise cancellation picking up my footsteps. This problem, reported by other users as well, makes the P100s less suitable for active use. Even when the noise cancellation is disabled I heard the footsteps resonating through the headphones.
The Cambridge Audio companion app runs on iPhone and Android devices. It offers basic but useful features, including firmware updates, graphic equalizer and customization of noise cancellation settings. The app also includes a gaming mode to reduce audio latency, which might be useful for some users.
Overall, the Cambridge Melomania P100 headphones provide excellent audio quality and comfort, making them a solid choice for stationary music listening or long flights. However, for those who like to move around with their headphones, the noise cancellation issues may be a significant drawback.
Disclosure: The headphones came in free of charge through the Amazon Vine program. However no other compensation was received and this content was not reviewed or approved by Amazon or the manufacturer before upload.
I recently explored Netflix’s venture into the gaming industry, discovering that it offers a variety of games as part of its streaming subscription plan. I take a look at their offerings on mobile, TV and the web in my latest video.
This all started with an article in Kotaku, which looked at Netflix’s plan to add 80 new games this year to its existing library of 100. Unlike many mobile games, Netflix’s offerings do not feature ads or in-app purchases, resembling the model of Apple Arcade and Google Play Pass. Existing Netflix customers can download and play the games without any additional fees.
In their second quarter earnings call last week, Netflix said they are focusing on developing games based on their popular intellectual properties (IP), such as a previously released Stranger Things game. These games tend to be narrative-driven and less reliant on quick reflexes, making them well-suited for touch screens.
Navigating Netflix’s game offerings varies between platforms. On Android, there is a dedicated games tab, while on iPhone, games are currently on a “shelf” that is mixed in with the streaming media content. Downloading a game from the Netflix app takes the user to the phone’s app store where it will install like any other app. Users can also download the games directly from each platform’s app store too.
One impressive feature is the cross-platform cloud syncing. For instance, I started playing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge (compensated affiliate link) on an Android phone and was able to pick up my game seamlessly on an iPhone. However, it’s important to note that if a game is removed from Netflix, the save files will not be compatible with versions of these games purchased separately.
Netflix’s TV interface for games is still developing. While mobile games cannot be downloaded on TV devices, Netflix offers TV-specific games that run within the Netflix app, controlled via a phone app. These games, such as Rocket, are simpler but still enjoyable.
In the web browser, Netflix offers the same games available on TV, which are web-based and apparently streamed from Netflix’s servers. Although these games look and play well, they currently do not support game controllers. An example is Infernax, a side-scrolling platformer reminiscent of Shovel Knight (compensated affiliate link).
Overall, Netflix’s foray into gaming is diverse and still evolving. It offers a unique blend of mobile, TV, and web-based games, making it worth exploring. If you haven’t yet tried Netflix games, it might be time to dive in and see what’s available.
I recently got my hands on the HP Sprocket Panorama, an intriguing little gadget designed to print long strips of photos using special thermal Zink paper. This compact printer, like other models in the Sprocket lineup, eliminates the need for ink cartridges, relying instead on its unique paper to produce images.
The printer costs about $129 (compensated affiliate link) but often goes on sale.
When unboxing, I found the paper supplied on a small spool. While the amount included isn’t extensive, it’s enough to get started and run a few prints. Through my phone, I could design custom prints, choosing lengths from half an inch up to nine inches. I decided to go with a middle ground of five inches for my test.
The design process is quite user-friendly. I could add borders, graphical elements, photos, stickers, and text to create my desired layout. However, one limitation I noticed was the inability to place borders behind the photos. This requires careful alignment of elements to achieve the desired look.
Once satisfied with my creation, I hit the print button. The printing process is relatively slow, comparable to other Sprocket models. The quality is what one would expect from other Zink-based thermal printers – not exceptional, but decent enough for fun and casual use. The prints do have a tendency to curl, possibly due to humidity, and the color fidelity isn’t perfect.
An additional feature of the Sprocket prints is their sticky backing, which can revealed after pulling off the backing on the paper. This makes it a handy tool for scrapbooking and other creative projects.
One thing to note is that unlike other Sprocket printers, the Panorama model must remain plugged in, as it lacks a battery.
Overall, the HP Sprocket Panorama offers a fun way to print and customize photos, especially for those who enjoy scrapbooking or simply want to add a personal touch to their prints. While the quality may not satisfy professional photographers, it provides an enjoyable and creative experience for casual users.
The Camp Snap digital camera is an intriguing device reminiscent of old disposable film cameras, yet it is digital, reusable, and rechargeable. It offers a simple photography experience featuring no screen and only a 80’s style counter on the back to indicate how many photos has been taken.
The camera features a fixed focus lens, producing images with a built-in filter that cannot be altered without having to flash its firmware. However, if you enjoy its unique look, it’s straightforward to use. Taking a photo involves simply pressing the shutter button, which then saves the image to the onboard storage and updates the photo count displayed on the back.
Viewing photos requires connecting the camera to a computer or other device via a USB port located under a small gasket. The camera presents itself as an external USB storage device when connected allowing easy access to your pictures. I was even able to transfer photos directly to my smartphone.
While it includes a flash, it isn’t particularly bright, yet still functional in various lighting conditions. Flash settings can be adjusted with a switch on the back of the camera.
Internally, the Camp Snap houses a 4 GB SD card, though it is secured with screws, making it difficult to replace. The rechargeable battery, which is charged via the USB-C port, can last for around 500 images before needing a recharge.
Overall, the Camp Snap is basic in its functionality but offers a charmingly simple way to capture moments. For those looking to reduce the complexity of their photography or enjoy a nostalgic experience, this camera presents a fun and practical option.
This device, retailing for about $30 (compensated affiliate link), aims to bring Android users a tracking solution akin to Apple’s AirTag. In theory, any updated Android phone can detect these trackers and report their location back to Google. However, my initial tests revealed some shortcomings.
Setting up the Pebblebee Clip was not as seamless as expected. I had to uninstall and reinstall the Find My Device app on my Google Pixel 8a to get it working. The device pairs over Bluetooth and features a rechargeable battery, a departure from the replaceable watch batteries used in many trackers, including AirTags. The battery life is advertised to last about a year, though this will vary based on usage.
One significant feature of the Pebblebee Clip is its anti-stalking capability. Google mandates that these devices notify people if they are being followed by a tag not in the owner’s possession. This feature is supposed to work across both Android and iOS devices. However, in my tests, it did not function as intended. When my wife carried the tag around with her iPhone for the better part of the day, she received no notifications, indicating a possible issue with the current implementation.
The user interface for the Pebblebee Clip allows for tracking the device, playing a sound to locate it, and even features a light to assist in finding it in the dark. It also provides a hot and cold directional indicator to help users find the tag when they are close by, although it lacks the precision of Apple’s ultra-wideband technology.
A significant limitation of the Google network is the default setting on Android phones. By default, the phones only participate in the network in “high-traffic” areas where there are a number of other Android phones present in the environment. This setting severely limits the effectiveness of the network in suburban or rural areas. When my wife took the tag to various locations where presumably other Android users would be present, including a grocery store and an art show, I received no location updates until she returned home.
Furthermore, the Pebblebee Clip lacks a “left behind” notification feature, which is present in Apple’s system. This feature alerts users when they move away from their tagged items, such as a bag. Additionally, the RFID scanning feature, which is supposed to allow users to tap the tag against their phone to get the owner’s information, did not work on either my Google or Apple devices in my testing.
Overall, while the Pebblebee Clip has some promising features, it falls short due to the limitations of Google’s network. The default settings and lack of universal device reporting significantly hinder its effectiveness, especially in less densely populated areas. For those in urban environments, it may perform adequately, but for others, Apple’s AirTag remains a more reliable option. Google’s network needs to be more robust and universally accessible to truly compete. Until then, the Pebblebee Clip is an interesting device that highlights the potential and current limitations of Google’s “Find My Device” network.
Many users wrote in to say that I “forgot” Samsung Tags that also have a similar find my device network. I didn’t forget and know it exists.. The point here is that Google is building a network that should work across the entire Android ecosystem – not just Samsung. And it falls short.
The Sandisk Pro G40 portable SSD is marketed towards creative professionals and stands out thanks to its Thunderbolt & USB 4.0 compatibility, promising multiple gigabytes per second of transfer rates. But it also is (mostly) backwards compatible to slower USB devices that lack Thunderbolt technology.
Because it’s a “professional” product this drive comes it at a higher price point, about $174 for the 1TB version (compensated affiliate link).
The drive’s build quality is impressive, featuring a solid, rubberized metal design with a grippy bottom, common in other SanDisk drives. It is IP68 weatherproof, making it resistant to splashes, though users should avoid exposing it to harsh weather when plugged in.
It comes with a short Thunderbolt 3 cable USB-C cable which will also work on computers not equipped with USB-C. Other cables, like USB-C to USB-A cables will work as well but those will need to be purchased separately.
Performance tests on a Thunderbolt-equipped Windows computer showed it achieving over 2.4 gigabytes per second in read and write speeds, maintaining this without thermal drop-offs or cache issues. For optimal performance, it’s crucial to connect to the correct port, identified by the Thunderbolt or USB 4.0 icon, as using a standard USB port significantly reduces speeds.
The CrystalDiskMark benchmark further highlighted its strengths in sequential and random reads and writes, suggesting potential for PC gaming. Comparisons with other USB-C-based drives such as the SanDisk Extreme Pro and Samsung T9 showed the Pro G40’s superior performance in Thunderbolt mode. Speeds were comparable to competitors when not connected to the Thunderbolt, however.
The SanDisk Pro G40 SSD contains an off-the-shelf WD Black SN850 NVMe (compensated affiliate link) drive inside its enclosure.
Notably, the Pro G40 does not work with iPhones, which limits its utility despite its potential for high bitrate, lossless video formats. Attempts to use it with other phones also failed, possibly due to power draw issues, making it suitable primarily for computers.
For Windows users, achieving full performance requires enabling write caching in the drive’s settings. I outlined those steps at the 6:12 mark in the video review. This extra step is unnecessary for Mac users, where the drive works at full speed out of the box.
While the Pro G40 is compatible with game consoles, its high performance can’t be utilized, making it an impractical choice for that purpose. However, for PC gaming and professional creative work, it offers excellent performance akin to internal drives. Despite its limitations with mobile devices, the Pro G40 is a compelling option for those needing a fast, reliable external drive.
My quest for the perfect wireless subscription-free doorbell has been a long one.. I’ve looked at Blink, Wyze, Google Nest and a few others but the Eufy e340 is one that I think is the best of the bunch. You can see my full review here.
It currently is selling at its Prime Day sales price at $119 (compensated affiliate link) but is normally $179. An indoor chime costs an additional $39.
One of the standout features of the Eufy E340 is its dual-camera setup. It includes a front-facing camera and a second camera aimed downward to monitor packages left at the doorstep. This design is particularly useful for keeping an eye on deliveries, ensuring that packages are not missed or stolen.
The doorbell stores footage locally, boasting 8GB of internal storage. If more space is needed, users can opt for the chime accessory, which includes an SD card slot for additional storage. There is also compatibility with Eufy’s hub for broader integration with other security devices.
The doorbell’s installation is straightforward, and it includes a secure mounting mechanism to deter theft. Users can also angle the doorbell using an included bracket for optimal coverage. The device operates efficiently in various lighting conditions, featuring both infrared and color night vision modes. The infrared mode uses invisible light to illuminate the scene, while the color mode employs visible lights for a clearer picture at night. You can see examples of both modes in the video above.
Audio quality is another strong point. The doorbell includes a microphone for clear audio recordings and a speaker for two-way communication. This setup allows users to interact with visitors or delivery personnel directly through their smartphones, providing real-time communication without the need for a walkie-talkie style exchange.
Battery life is impressive, lasting several months under low to moderate usage. The device also supports direct power connections if existing doorbell wiring is available, which helps maintain the battery charge indefinitely.
The Eufy app, available on both Android and iOS, provides a comprehensive interface for managing the doorbell. Users can view live footage, review recorded events, and adjust settings directly from the app. The app’s AI offer reliable human detection while ignoring non-essential movements or trees blowing in the wind or animals. This reduces false alerts and enhances the overall user experience.
One of the advanced features is the “Delivery Guard,” which tracks packages left at the door and can also activate a deterrent alert when a package is detected and someone walks up to the door. Users can also receive alerts if a package remains unattended for too long. The familiar faces feature allows users to upload photos of known individuals, enabling the doorbell to recognize and log visits from these people.
All in, the Eufy E340 Dual Camera Wireless Doorbell is a well-rounded, high-performing device that excels in key areas such as video quality, audio clarity, battery life, and smart features. Its dual-camera design and robust app integration make it a versatile choice for anyone seeking a reliable, subscription-free doorbell solution. For those in search of a dependable and cost-effective security addition to their home, this doorbell is worth serious consideration.
Disclosure: I paid for the doorbell with my own funds.
While Amazon does regularly update their Echo devices, it’s often hard to discern one version from the next these days as most are more revisions versus something totally new. But the other day Amazon released their latest Echo Spot that looks and operates a little differently than the others. You can see more in my latest review.
Unlike the more versatile Echo Show, the Echo Spot is being marketed primarily as a smart alarm clock. This device lacks a camera and has a more limited display functionality, but at the same time it’s not displaying ads to the user as a means of subsidizing its cost.
The design is reminiscent of other Echo devices, with a cut-off sphere look. It comes with a low resolution display that is mostly dedicated to showing the time and weather conditions. Unlike the Echo Show, it cannot display video footage from security cameras or provide the same depth of visual information. However, it will provide basic visual responses to certain queries, such as showing the weather or the current music track playing.
While it is capable of performing many of the same tasks as other Echo devices, the limited display means it might not be as suitable for tasks that require more visual information, like kitchen timers. The Echo Spot can also handle multiple countdown timers, although the small display makes it challenging to manage several at once.
Amazon offers some limited customization of the clock face, including choosing from a few different layouts for the clock display along with the base color it uses. The clock faces can be adjusted using the touch functionality of the display but it’s much easier to do it via the Alexa app.
Amazon also built in a night mode that dims the display and switches to a red color for the clock to avoid disrupting sleep. Night hours can be set within the app. The alarm clock functionality is also intuitive; you can set alarms by voice and snooze them with a simple tap on the top of the device. There are different alarm tones available, including some celebrity voices, which can add a fun element to waking up.
In terms of audio, the speaker on the Echo Spot is decent, offering a richer sound than the entry-level Echo Dot but not quite at the level of higher-end audio devices. It’s suitable for background music or podcasts, especially when getting ready in the morning.
The physical controls on the top include a mute button for the microphone and volume buttons. The Echo Spot’s microphones are quite sensitive and can pick up commands from across a room, making it a convenient addition to a bedroom or office.
Overall, the Amazon Echo Spot serves well as a smart alarm clock, offering basic smart assistant functionalities without the added complexity or privacy concerns of a camera. It integrates smoothly into Amazon’s ecosystem and provides a balance of features for those looking for a simple, voice-controlled device for their bedside table.
Japan has officially banned the use of floppy disks in its government operations. This move comes as part of a broader effort by the country’s new Digital Transformation Minister, Taro Kono, who has declared a war on outdated technology. According to a recent Ars Technica article, the Japanese government required obsolete media formats, including floppy disks, CD-ROMs, and even mini-discs for many official filings.
In my latest video we take a look at the Japanese law and look at why floppy disks persist as a storage medium over a decade after the last one was made. We also have a fun interview with Tom Persky, owner of floppydisk.com, who is one of the last remaining floppy disk retailers.
In the United States, the use of floppy disks persisted in critical areas longer than one might expect. For example, until 2019, the US nuclear arsenal relied on 8-inch floppy disks, which were eventually replaced by secure digital storage solutions. Floppy disks also remain essential in certain private sector areas, particularly in aviation, where some Boeing 747s update their software using 3.5-inch floppy disks.
Despite their obsolescence, floppy disks are not entirely dead. They are still available for purchase online, often from niche suppliers like Tom Persky’s Floppydisk.com. Persky’s business, which started as a software development house, morphed into a disk duplication service in the 1990s. Now it thrives by catering to a dwindling yet persistent market for floppy disks. As retail shelf space for these disks has vanished, Persky’s large inventory and online presence have made him a go-to source for individuals and businesses needing floppy disks.
Floppydisk.com supplies both new old stock and repurposed disks. Persky’s stock comes from various sources, including large purchases from countries like South Africa, Argentina, and Brazil. He also provides a recycling service for used disks, repurposing those that pass reformatting tests and selling others for artistic or promotional uses.
The clientele for floppy disks is diverse. About 10% of Persky’s customers are computer hobbyists looking to revive old games or systems. He says the bulk of his business comes from industrial customers who rely on floppy disks to operate machines built decades ago. These machines, designed to last for decades, still use floppy disks to ingest data for automation.
One common concern about floppy disks is their longevity. Persky notes that disks manufactured during the peak production years of the 1980s and 1990s are generally reliable. In contrast, disks made towards the end of their manufacturing run may be less so. Interestingly, well-maintained floppy disks can sometimes be more dependable than other storage media like USB drives or CDs, which can suffer from issues like “disc rot” over time. I have a few CD’s that I burned in the late 90’s that are rotted out yet many of my 40 year old Apple II disks still read perfectly.
Floppydisk.com also offers data transfer services, helping customers recover old data from floppy disks, such as early drafts of books, financial records, and treasured photographs.
While the future of floppy disks is finite, given that no new disks are being produced, Persky remains optimistic. He acknowledges that the business may not last forever, but is confident that the current inventory will suffice for the foreseeable future.
The G5 is priced at $149 for the 256GB storage version (compensated affiliate link) and $200 for the 512GB variant. Unlike some of the larger mini PCs with two storage bays, this model offers only one. But both the M.2 2242 storage and bluetooth / wifi card are replaceable and upgradeable.
In terms of ports, the G5 is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports, a USB Type-C for power only, a gigabit Ethernet port, and two HDMI outputs that support 4K at 60Hz. Although it has fewer ports than other mini PCs, it remains practical for basic tasks.
Performance-wise, the G5 handles web browsing and video playback smoothly, even at 4K. It managed to play back a 4K YouTube video without drop frames after initial buffering. The device’s fan is noticeable during intensive tasks, yet it maintains a manageable noise level.
For office tasks, the G5 is more than adequate, running Microsoft Word at 4K without lag. However, it lacked a VESA mount plate in the box, limiting its mounting options. Despite this, its small footprint makes it a convenient desktop addition.
Gaming on the G5 proved impressive for its size. Running a remastered version of “Dark Forces” at 1080p maintained 60fps. GTA V at 720p at its lowest settings hovered around 40 fps, showcasing its capability with older, resource-intensive games. Emulating PS2 games via PCSX2 delivered a consistent 60fps running at the default settings and the games’ native resolution.
Benchmarking on 3DMark TimeSpy resulted in a score of 487, surpassing similar mini PCs with the N100 processor. While it may not match Ryzen or Intel Core Ultra machines, its performance remains commendable for the price. On the 3DMark stress test, it achieved a passing grade of 97.9%, indicating stable performance under load despite its smaller fan having to work harder.
The G5, like many of the Mini PCs we’ve looked at recently comes with what appears to be a legitimately licensed and activated copy of Windows 11 Pro. No malware was detected during testing, but it allowed local account creation without needing a Microsoft account. I suspect that they are buying up bulk OEM Pro licenses and assigning them to these PCs.
Linux performance on the G5 was seamless, with all hardware components functioning properly on the latest version of Ubuntu. As we saw recently with the N100 processor, the G5 has great potential for Plex serving with its slightly faster N97 chip. It is of course limited by its internal storage capacity, necessitating USB drives for expansion.
Overall, the GMKTec Nucbox G5 is a versatile mini PC, suitable for office tasks, light gaming, and media serving. Its compact size and decent performance make it an excellent secondary computer for various uses. But I still prefer the N100 based G3 as it offers more expandability.
Disclosure: The G5 was provided to the channel free of charge for this review. No other compensation was received, nor did anyone review or approve the review before it was uploaded.All opinions are my own.
A YouTube executive made a notable admission about the relevance of subscriptions on the platform, confirming that subscribers won’t see everything uploaded by a subscribed channel under most circumstances. I talk about this in my latest video.
It all started with a tweet on X from Rene Richie, the “YouTube liaison,” who responded to a query about the algorithm and its impact on visibility. Richie replied to a question from Curtis Judd, a content creator focused on audio and visual production tools who frequently hears from subscribers that they never see his content being uploaded.
Richie’s response shed light on YouTube’s current stance on subscriptions. He emphasized that YouTube doesn’t push content from creators; instead, it pulls content based on viewer behavior. Richie says this is largely dictated by time constraints on the viewer.
He adds that subscribers can always access content through the subscription feed, but YouTube hasn’t updated the subscription feed in years. It often becomes a chaotic, chronological fire hose, that works very differently across the various viewing platforms YouTube supports. The feed lacks sorting and filtering tools for those with a large number of subscriptions.
Moreover, the YouTube homepage recommendation algorithm considers various factors, such as how recently a viewer subscribed and their current viewing habits. This means that if a viewer subscribed to a channel years ago and doesn’t religiously watch every single video that channel uploads, YouTube might deprioritize those older subscriptions. This can lead to a situation where the platform essentially decides the subscription status on behalf of the viewer, rather than allowing users to manage their subscriptions actively.
This system presents significant challenges especially for channels like mine that cover a wide range of tech content. Not every subscriber will be interested in every upload, which frequently demotes me to the bottom of the barrel for recommendations. The result is that a vast majority of my nearly 360,000 subscribers are never even given the choice to watch my content – they never see the thumbnail.
Data from my channel shows a marked decline in thumbnail impressions from the subscription feed over the years, despite a steadily growing subscriber base. This indicates that fewer people are using the subscription tab because it just isn’t useful to most users.
I’ve developed alternative ways to connect with my audience, such as email lists and a dedicated blog. These platforms allow me to share all my content regularly, giving the viewer the choice to watch or not. I’ve also set up a short URL, at https://lon.tv/latest that viewers can bookmark to always see my most recent uploads.
This brings us back to the subscription feed being a hot mess. Because it is mostly a fire hose of content, users with large feeds will only effectively see content posted around the time they log in. If a viewer’s favorite creator posts at a time opposite that viewer’s regular viewing hours the post will get buried – especially if they viewer has a large subscription base.
The user interface varies significantly across devices too. On desktop, it’s a mix of live channels and a chronological list of videos from subscribed channels with very few fitting on screen at once. On a TV, there’s a semblance of organization with frequently watched channels appearing at the top but no way to control what channels get pinned to the top of that list. The mobile version offers filters like ‘Live,’ ‘videos only,’ and ‘Continue Watching’, but the overall experience is still difficult to manage – especially if the viewer is subscribed to channels that dump a whole bunch of content at once. The mobile interface also has a “most relevant” list of channels pinned to the top of the screen but lacks a means of deciding which channels go in that spot.
To navigate these limitations, I’ve resorted to using an RSS reader, a tool that some might find archaic but is surprisingly effective and still a backbone of digital content distribution. RSS allows me to categorize and follow my favorite channels along with the ability to filter those channels by topic. This method ensures I never miss content from creators I genuinely care about even if I don’t watch every single one of their videos. The best part is that consuming videos from the RSS feed helps improve my recommendations as I’m consuming content that genuinely interests me.
Despite these efforts, the core issue remains. YouTube’s current system of managing subscriptions is flawed, allowing the subs tab feature to rot away in a subtle effort to push users to use the recommendations instead. While these recommendations can help discover new content, they should not supplant a well-functioning subscription system. Users deserve the ability to tailor their viewing experience, deciding which channels to prioritize and de-prioritize if they so choose.
So what would I fix? First, give the user the ability to maintain a list of favorites at the top of the sub feed (similar to the mobile and TV experience). We already have a “bell” to click for notifications so bell clicked channels would be an easy way to implement this feature.
Next, YouTube should “stack” videos in the sub feed from channels that dump a bunch of content all at once. A great example are my local news channels that upload all of their news packages at the same time which fills my feed. This apparently is a feature that YouTube is “experimenting” with – but like most sub feed experiments they rarely come to fruition.
A “stretch goal” for me would also be to have some <gasp> algorithmic filtering options based on the video topic. This would be similar to how recommendations can be sorted by topic. This might help re-surface channels a viewer has missed based on what kind of content mood they are in.
But that’s it – YouTube really doesn’t need to do much to make the sub feed just a little bit better to attract more usage. But it’s likely they don’t want to do anything that takes viewers off the home page.
My video generated a huge response from viewers. Many agreed with my concerns and many others posted to say that the current system is working just fine for them. Curious, I put up a poll on my community tab (unscientific of course) to see how many subscriptions those who liked the current sub feed have on their list. The result? More than half, 54%, have less than 100! I have well over 1,000 that I’ve accumulated over nearly 20 years.
Improving the subscription tab would not only enhance user satisfaction but also help improve recommendations for content discovery. It’s a win-win for everyone in my humble opinion.. So why not do it?
I recently had the opportunity to review the HP LaserJet M209dw, a budget-friendly laser printer ideal for those who don’t print frequently and are looking for an economical option. The printer, priced at around $120 (compensated affilate link), features a low cost per print and replacement cartridges at $54 for 1100 pages and $88 for 2400 pages. Interestingly, HP also offers an Instant Ink subscription, although for this model, purchasing high-capacity cartridges outright proves more economical. You can see it in action in my latest review.
One of the standout features of laser printers like the M209dw is their reliability for infrequent printing – even if it’s left idle for months. Unlike inkjet printers that often require nozzle cleaning after prolonged inactivity, laser printers remain functional without the need for such maintenance. This makes them particularly suitable for environments where printing needs are sporadic.
In terms of performance, the M209dw boasts a print speed of 30 pages per minute, which is quite impressive for its price range. During my tests, the printer handled a variety of print jobs over a Wi-Fi network efficiently. Despite being a bit noisier than some other laser printers, the speed and quality of the output were commendable. The standard print mode delivers sharp text and decent B&W photos at 600 DPI, which is sufficient for most black-and-white printing needs.
Setting up the printer was straightforward, thanks to the HP smartphone app, which facilitated wireless connection. Additionally, the printer can connect over USB or ethernet. Once connected, it was effortlessly recognized by various devices, including Macs, Windows PCs, iPads, iPhones, Android phones, and even Chromebooks.
Another notable feature is the duplex printing capability, which allows automatic double-sided printing. This function works smoothly, albeit a bit slower than single-sided printing as it has to pull the paper back in to flip it over.
The M209dw’s paper handling capabilities include a 150-sheet tray and a 100-sheet output tray. While it can handle standard paper sizes efficiently, its design may not be ideal for printing on smaller items like index cards or envelopes, as there is no manual feeder for straight-through printing.
One important consideration for potential buyers is HP’s aggressive stance on generic cartridges. The company employs dynamic security measures to prevent the use of third-party cartridges, frequently updating firmware to enforce this policy. This could be a drawback for those who prefer using cheaper, non-HP cartridges. Additionally, the persistent promotion of the Instant Ink subscription inside the app, along with a hard-to-remove promotional sticker on the printer itself, might be an annoyance.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the HP LaserJet M209dw stands out as a cost-effective, reliable option for users with occasional printing needs. Its speed, print quality, and ease of setup make it a compelling choice in the budget laser printer category.
Disclosure: This item came in free of charge from the online retailer Flip. However Flip nor HP reviewed or approved this review before it was uploaded, no other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.
As I write this post we are in the middle of the “Steam Summer Sale” where the popular gaming platform offers deep discounts on thousands of PC games. Like many gamers of a certain age I find myself buying cheap games to add to my library but never get around to actually playing them.
A recent analysis by PCGamesN highlights a staggering amount of unplayed games worth billions of dollars in users’ libraries. This got me curious about my own Steam library, and I decided to delve into this issue further. This is the subject of my latest video.
PCGamesN estimates that there are approximately $1.9 billion worth of unplayed games in publicly accessible Steam profiles. This figure only accounts for about 10% of the profiles in the Steam ID database, suggesting that the actual amount of unplayed games could be significantly higher. The variability in game prices and sales makes it difficult to pinpoint an exact value of these unplayed titles, but it’s safe to assume it’s at least several hundred millions of dollars.
Curious about my own collection, I discovered that I have around $2,000 worth of unplayed games in my Steam library, accounting for just over 50% of my overall library. Many of these games were acquired through bundles or sales, often at significantly reduced prices, so I think my actual cost is much lower. Despite having played only 48% of my games, I continue to add more to my library.
You can check out your own “pile of shame” by making your Steam profile public and searching for it on SteamIDfinder.com. You can also keep track of unplayed games inside of the Steam interface by using their filtering options as demoed in my video. You can turn your filtered search into a “dynamic collection” that will automatically update the list as you work your way through the unplayed games.
One downside of these digital libraries is a lack of true ownership. I can’t sell these unplayed games like I could with a CD or cartridge based game. What’s worse is that any issue with the account can result in losing access to all purchased content – after all you’re merely purchasing a revokable license to play the game.
One of the staples of my mid-life crisis set is my beloved Apple IIgs, a computer I purchased second hand from a guy in town when I was 13 years old. In a recent livestream, I pulled the IIgs off its perch to replace its power supply and get it back into working condition.
Thankfully there are some great resources out there to rectify these power supply problems and get the old hardware working again. I opted to send mine into Reactive Micro and take advantage of their power supply rebuild service. I quickly received my power supply back with new, modern guts that should keep this old computer working for decades to come.
The Apple IIgs looked and behaved like a Mac but was a late 80’s upgrade to the Apple II line with enhanced graphics and sound. In addition to running its own enhanced 16 bit software it also was fully backwards compatible with the 8 bit software for the earlier Apple II models.
I pushed the IIgs to the limit when I was 13 with all sorts of upgrades like adding a telephone-based modem to host a BBS, and even installing an emulator board to turn it into an IBM-XT compatible PC!
But I still wanted to do more to upgrade my IIgs back in the day. For the entire duration of it being my “daily driver,” it lacked a hard disk drive and I had to run software off of its 3.5″ and 5.25″ floppy disk drives.
It also only had a single megabyte of RAM. While that was more than enough for the older Apple II software, the more advanced GS applications that ran in the Mac-like GS/OS operating system needed more memory. I was completely locked out of the last and greatest GS/OS System 6.0 release in 1992 as I needed 1.25MB of RAM vs. the single meg on mine.
Back in 2007 I pulled the IIgs out of my Mom’s basement and embarked on a project to bring it up to the level I always wanted it to be at while also archiving all of my floppy disks.
I managed to find an upgraded Transwarp GS accelerator board for a great price on Ebay that brought the machine up to a whopping 12 mhz from its original 2.8mhz. I also added a 4 megabyte RAM upgrade board.
Around this time hobbyists began developing some amazing new hardware for the Apple II. I picked up the “CFFA 3000” that emulates a IIgs hard drive on Compact Flash cards & USB drives along with the “Uthernet II” ethernet card that connected my IIgs to my local network and the Internet!
If you have an old IIgs kicking around, you’ll find Reactive Micro to be a great source for upgrade hardware. If you’re looking for software check out “What is the Apple IIgs,” an awesome archive of most of the software available for the IIgs. They also have some pre-compiled hard disk images on the home page that will boot up in emulators along with the real hardware.
My YouTube channel is about to celebrate its 12th anniversary on YouTube and I wanted to share some insights and experiences on where things go from here. Despite many old-time YouTubers like me quitting the platform, I’m here to stay, even though the landscape has changed significantly. It’s getting tougher for tech creators, but the work is still fun and rewarding. See more in my latest video.
I first want to extend my thanks to all of you who support my work. Whether you watch my videos, donate through various platforms, or participate in live streams, your support is invaluable. The YouTube algorithm makes it harder to reach subscribers, so I appreciate those who actively seek out my content.
Consumer habits have shifted drastically over the last decade or so. Products like Blu-ray players, music players, and even computers are purchased less frequently as the convenience of streaming services multifunctional devices like smartphones dominate. This trend affects my channel’s content and viewership as consumers are looking to purchase less individual devices. The competition for reviews is fierce, especially for products consumers do want to buy like smartphones, making it challenging to attract a broad audience and the revenue streams that come with it.
The tech industry also faces struggles trying to broaden the gadget marketplace. For instance, despite selling 20 million Quest headsets, Meta finds that users don’t engage with them regularly. Now manufacturers are focused on AI, but the hardware is just not there to do any kind of meaningful work.
Looking ahead, I plan to continue producing content while adapting to these changes. So far this year I gained 8,700 new subscribers, bringing the total close to 360,000. Despite a decline in viewership post-pandemic, my revenue remains lower but relatively stable, thanks in part to diverse income sources like YouTube, Amazon, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
I’m also experimenting with platforms like Flip for shorter product reviews. Those videos are landing on my extras channel, rebranded as Lon’s Gadget Picks, as I continue to try and find a good model for that secondary outlet.
I’m also considering launching a new channel focused on video production, a niche that doesn’t perform well on my main channel. Live streaming is another area I plan to expand, leveraging platforms like Amazon for additional content distribution.
To manage the overflow of tech gadgets, I’m selling items through my store and live auctions & giveaways on Whatnot (affiliate link). Additionally, my email lists offer weekly and daily updates, keeping subscribers informed about new content and store additions.
Twelve years on YouTube have been a remarkable experience, full of learning and adaptation. If you’re curious, this video of a Lazer Tag device from 2012 is what I consider my first official Lon.TV video.
I’m committed to keep going full time as long as its sustainable. Even if a course change is needed rest assured I’ll still be sharing my content on this platform for many years to come.
