Mac Geek Gab — Apple Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting
Optimizing Storage, Migration, Snapshots, and Combo Updates – Mac Geek Gab 778
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- Long-pressing the screenshot preview in iOS brings up the share sheet for quick sharing.
- Wi-Fi must be enabled for AirDrop to work properly; turning Wi-Fi off disables it.
- macOS updates can behave unexpectedly, such as brief black screens, but generally complete without issues.
- Manual management of system extensions in Mojave and Catalina via commands like KextCache can resolve approval problems.
- Tools like MacUpdater can help keep your applications up to date and remove unused apps.
- Using Migration Assistant can be effective for transferring user data and applications, but manual prunning and cleaning are recommended beforehand.
- Third-party scanning software like ExactScan can be a good alternative to proprietary drivers for managing scans.
- Optimizing your network setup with bridge mode or mesh systems improves coverage without sacrificing performance.
- Selling or trading older devices can be done effectively through eBay, trade-in programs, or local options for better returns.
Summary
Apple Event and Upcoming Special Episode
The hosts discuss their plan to release a special episode following the Apple event scheduled for Tuesday, focusing on their thoughts and analysis of Apple’s announcements. They decide to do this to give timely coverage and avoid waiting a full week. The episode will likely be centered on how new Apple releases impact Mac, iPhone, and Apple Watch users.
Tips and Tricks for iOS and Mac Users
Donna shares a handy tip for iOS users: long-pressing the screenshot preview in the corner of the screen brings up the share sheet, allowing quick sharing without saving to Photos. The hosts reflect on AirDrop issues and Wi-Fi’s role in enabling AirDrop, noting that Wi-Fi must be on for AirDrop to work properly. They also discuss recent macOS Mojave updates, including how system updates behave during installation, and new options in Wallet for forcing Apple Pay with double-click side button on iPhones.
macOS and App Updates, Compatibility, and Troubleshooting
The hosts review recent 10.14.6 supplemental updates and share their experiences with update behaviors, including brief black screens on Macs during updates. They delve into troubleshooting system extensions, especially in Catalina, and explore commands like KextCache to manage extension approvals. They also discuss issues with third-party apps, such as Intel Power Gadget, losing system extension approval during migration, and how to manually re-approve extensions using terminal commands.
Third-Party Software for Scanning and Drive Management
Chris recommends ExactScan as an alternative to the proprietary ScanSnap driver, highlighting its good OCR quality and integration with document management tools. They also mention the capabilities and limitations of managing snapshots of drives in APFS, and how tools like Carbon Copy Cloner can show and manage snapshots directly.
Optimizing Storage, Migration, and Data Management Tips
The hosts discuss strategies for managing large amounts of data and generating efficient backups and migrations. They talk about using Migration Assistant, cloning drives, and how to manually migrate user data and applications. They emphasize the importance of pruning and cleaning older data before migration, and using tools like Zapier to automate data collection and keep track of subscription payments while traveling.
Networking and Mesh Systems with Apple Devices
The discussion centers around integrating non-Apple access points into a mesh network, particularly how to extend Wi-Fi coverage using Airport Extreme, Time Capsule, or third-party beacons. They share personal experiences and suggest configuring devices in bridge mode or enabling wireless as needed. The hosts also explore the potential for Apple to support more advanced mesh features and protocols in future macOS updates.
Selling Old Devices and Repair Options
Mike raises a concern regarding Gazelle’s declining customer service since their acquisition and seeks alternative options for selling or recycling old devices. The hosts mention other avenues such as eBay, local trade-in programs, and carrier-based deals, emphasizing that selling directly can yield higher value but involves more effort. They also touch on repairing or refurbishing devices, and the importance of properly managing snapshots and backups during device management.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
Listeners should remember the usefulness of sharing screenshot previews via long-press, the importance of Wi-Fi for AirDrop, and keep in mind recent macOS update behaviors and methods for troubleshooting system extensions. Using tools like MacUpdater and Carbon Copy Cloner helps maintain and manage drive snapshots and software updates. When migrating, consider manually managing user data and applications, and look into third-party tools like ExactScan for better scanning options. Networking can be optimized with bridge mode or mesh configurations, and selling old devices can be done via eBay or trade-in programs for best value.
Sponsors
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- barebones.com · BBEdit is back in the App Store with subscription options and perpetual licenses directly from Barebones. Ideal for editing, comparing, and managing text, code, or configuration files. Special offer includes a 30-day free trial and a discounted perpetual license.
- exactscan.com · Exact Scan offers a robust scanning software alternative to the proprietary ScanSnap driver, supporting better integration with document management software like DevonThink Pro and offering high-quality OCR and flexible settings.
Show notes
This isn’t the one after 9/9, it’s the one on 9/9! And that means it’s time to answer your questions and share your tips about optimizing your iPhone storage, managing your snapshots, ejecting pesky drives, finding a service better than Gazelle, and much more. Press play and enjoy learning at least five new things right alongside John and Dave!
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