Mac Geek Gab — Apple Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting
Long Term Storage, Photos, & Cool Stuff Found
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- Uninstall Adobe Flash now that it's officially deprecated to avoid security risks.
- Use reader view in Safari for distraction-free reading and bookmark specific pages or set it to automatically enable on certain sites.
- When migrating to a new Mac, consider manually organizing and consolidating your media libraries after using Migration Assistant for a smoother transition.
- Monitor your SSD and battery health regularly with tools like DriveDX, coconut battery, or fruit juice to avoid data loss and optimize lifespan.
- Using mesh Wi-Fi systems like Netgear Orbi Wi-Fi 6 can provide fast, reliable connectivity for multiple devices over large distances.
- Utilities like launchd.info, Launch Control, and third-party apps like Unite or coherence can help configure and troubleshoot system startup scripts and site-specific browsers effectively.
- Select reliable storage formats and strategies for long-term archival storage, favoring read-only compressed disk images over writeable or sparse bundle formats.
- For easier device management, utilities such as Silicon Info and third-party replacements for Fluid help identify app compatibility and create website-specific apps.
Summary
Apple and Software Updates
The hosts discuss the phasing out of Adobe Flash, emphasizing the importance of uninstalling it due to security issues, and reflect on Flash's historical role in web interactivity. They also touch on Safari's reader view, noting its behavior changes and troubleshooting tips, along with a light commentary on new browser features and extensions.
Mac Backup and Storage Strategies
A significant portion of the episode addresses long-term file storage and backups, including disk image formats for archiving, using external drives for Photos libraries, and considerations for reliability of SSDs versus spinning hard drives. The hosts offer practical advice, compare disk image types, and discuss ongoing health monitoring tools for drives and batteries.
Migrating and Organizing Data on New Macs
Listeners inquire about best practices for migrating data from older Macs, organizing media libraries, and setting up their new machines. Advice includes using Migration Assistant, consolidating media libraries, and planning for potential reorganization during the transition.
Hardware and Peripheral Troubleshooting
Several questions cover issues like slow AirDrop, battery health, and connectivity on MacBooks and iMacs. The hosts give troubleshooting steps for AirDrop, discuss battery aging, and recommend utilities for monitoring and improving device performance.
Cool Stuff Found & Utilities
A variety of tools and utilities are highlighted, such as Silicon Info to identify native vs. Rosetta apps, launchd.info for managing startup scripts, and third-party applications like Launch Control, Unite, and coherence X for managing specific workflows. Hardware recommendations include Wi-Fi 6 mesh systems from Netgear and alternative doorbell options compatible with Apple HomeKit.
Miscellaneous Tips and Recommendations
Extra tips include how to force Time Machine backups to specific drives, handling duplicate files in iTunes, and configuring site-specific browsers with utilities like Unite and coherence. The hosts also share personal experiences with network hardware, utility apps, and hardware modifications for enhanced smart home integration.
Sponsors
- Helix Sleep · We have been sleeping on a Helix mattress, matched with the Midnight model for medium firmness, and it works great. The process involves taking a quick quiz, and they deliver a customized mattress. They are offering up to $200 off and two free pillows for listeners.
- Mint Mobile · Switching to Mint Mobile can save you money on wireless plans. They start at just $15 a month, and you can bring your own phone. They offer a 7-day money-back guarantee. Good for those looking to cut wireless bills in 2021.
- Bare Bones Software (Yojimbo & BBEdit) · Offering a holiday bundle deal which includes BBEdit, a text editor, and Yojimbo, for storing, encrypting, and retrieving data synced via iCloud. Ideal for those who need powerful text tools and a secure storage solution.
Show notes
This week, John and Dave come together to answer your questions about long-term storage, Photos Libraries, Migrating to a new Mac and much, much more. Listen as your two favorite geeks drop the knowledge — and your Quick Tips and Cool Stuff Found — so that everyone can listen and learn at least five new things together! Join us and start the new year right!
Follow this show on AudioBrevity and new episodes get summarized for you. Create a free account