I order supplements online: Mix two scoops of collagen into your coffee or smoothie. I do this every morning to keep my skin, bones and joints happy. (Psst, it’s 45% off and you’ll get free shipping with my link.)
Tech myths: Streaming, AI, phone and computer ‘wisdom’ that isn’t
When it comes to tech myths, I’ve heard ‘em all. That’s why I’m here to help you keep a handle on what’s real and what’s not. Before we dive in, just a few reminders: Macs can get viruses, closing apps will not save battery life, and your smartphone’s memory doesn’t die after two years.
Myth: Streaming in 4K always gives you the best quality.
Fact: Nope! If your internet connection isn’t fast enough, your stream will buffer or downgrade to a lower resolution. Some services use aggressive compression, too, so a well-encoded 1080p stream looks better than a heavily compressed 4K one.
Myth: Smartwatches track with medical-grade accuracy.
Fact: The sensors built into new smartwatches can monitor your heart rate, sleep and oxygen levels, and they can detect irregular heart rhythms, but they’re not replacements for medical devices. Think of them instead as a device that provides trends, not specifics. If you’re worried about something, consult your doctor and not your wrist.
Myth: AI understands what it’s saying.
Fact: AI doesn’t “think” like humans do — at least, not yet. It predicts the most likely next word based on patterns, but it has no true understanding or emotions. It’s like a really advanced autocomplete, not a sentient being. That said, the new reasoning models coming soon could change that.
Myth: 5G causes cancer.
Fact: The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health agencies have done extensive research and found no adverse health effects linked to 5G. It uses the same type of nonionizing radio frequencies as 4G and Wi-Fi, neither of which damages our DNA or cells.
Myth: Using a magnet near your computer could result in your PC’s instant death.
Fact: Today’s solid-state drives (SSDs) aren’t phased. This myth hearkens back to floppy disks, which could be wiped with magnets. Still, be cautious with strong magnets near older hard drives and your monitor.
Myth: You can’t use advanced features in Zoom unless you have a paid account.
Hey! You look good
Ever wonder why some people just seem to glow with health? No, it’s not a filter or some secret Hollywood lighting trick. (OK, for some people it is.) But for the lucky ones, it’s what’s happening inside their body. And one of the biggest factors? Collagen.
✈️ Tag, you’re it! I always toss an AirTag in my luggage, just in case. Now American Airlines supports Apple’s Share Item Location. If your bag goes missing, you can share the last known location to help them track it down. United, Delta, Air Canada and Virgin use it, too.
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40% more
Calories burned walking backwards. “Retro” walking (paywall link) is better at improving balance, reducing back pain and sharpening cognition, too. If you try it, be careful!
Dress like your favorite TV character
Dress like your favorite TV character: ShopYourTV tells you exactly what they’re wearing and where to buy it, down to the season and episode. The site links to Amazon and they get a commission on what you buy.
Protect your data before catastrophe strikes – after is too late
I know you felt it because I did, too. Watching coverage of the Los Angeles fires and, now, the destruction left in their wake, has been heartbreaking. A reader emailed me: “People had very little time to gather anything before they had to leave their houses. I’d appreciate your advice on what to do before a catastrophe.”
‘Can you tape that?’ Phrases tech has killed off
I’m sure you remember this: “You hang up first.” “No, you hang up first.” Not quite as romantic when you fumble for the “End call” button on your iPhone, eh? As times change and our tech changes, so, too, do the phrases we use.
Make this year the one you take care of you
Make this year the one you take care of you: Hearing aids aren’t expensive and bulky like they used to be. The tech has come such a long way. Get a free evaluation with a doctor. You’ll be glad you did.
"What'd you say
🥴 “What’d you say?” If you find yourself asking this more and more, it’s time to make a change. Forget the hearing aids your grandpa wore; today’s tech is so much better. These hearing aids have two tiny processors that analyze the sound around you to make conversations crystal clear. Incredible.
1 cup
Of grapes a day preserves muscle. There are 1,600+ compounds in the fruit that help you maintain muscle mass as you age, improve kidney and heart health and lots more. Now you have your raisins to eat grapes!
This is important: Global myopia rates have tripled since 1990, increasing the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and blindness (paywall link). The culprit? Too much screen time. Reminder: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to protect your eyes. I like puns about eyes, the cornea the better.
Missing Fire Stick remote? With the Amazon Alexa Voice Remote Pro, say, “Alexa, find my remote.” It’ll ring if it’s connected to your Fire TV and within 30 feet. For an older remote, use the Fire TV app.
5 cool ways to use your home network (beyond getting online)
When you connect your gadgets to the same Wi-Fi network, you’re not just getting them online; you’re building a system so they can communicate with each other. You don’t need to be a tech wizard — just follow the steps below:
5 ways to connect when you’re apart for the holidays
Christmas Eve is here. It’s a time for joy, laughter and cherished moments with loved ones. I know how busy this day can get, but a little bit of tech-savvy can help make it even more special.
Here are five quick and simple ways to use technology to connect with family and create memories without taking up too much time.
🏈 What’s the score? In the Alexa app, open Settings > Sports Update. Add your teams (you’ll find all major American sports leagues). Now, say, “Alexa, give me my sports update” for scores and schedule info.
You’ve got mail: Psychologists say those who aim for “Inbox Zero,” aka no unread email, might be perfectionists craving control. If you let unread emails pile up, you might be more laid-back and focused on priorities over organization. Some people even get more stressed trying to keep a clear inbox. Try as I might, I’m not an “Inbox Zero” gal.
Nifty YouTube shortcuts: Press M to mute or unmute a video, K to pause or play a video, and F to enter or exit full-screen mode. While you’re there, follow my channel so you never miss a vid.
➗ The math helper you’ve always wanted: AI is smart enough to teach you if you know how to ask. In Google Search, ask, “How do I solve,” followed by your equation (e.g., “How do I solve 52% of 1,399?”). The answer will walk you through the steps, too. Handy.