Tech Refresh: Global chip shortage, hiding files, favorite phones over the year

April 30, 2021

Kim and the crew break down the latest tech news, including a global chip shortage that’s going to make getting your hands on electronics and appliances even more expensive. Plus, a 21-year-old Blockbuster rental came back to haunt a woman applying for a new driver’s license. The team reminiscences over the best cell phones from years past, and see if Ben can fool Mike and Allie in Brand New or Not True.

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Good news: Your home internet might get a huge speed boost (at no extra cost)

The pandemic has moved many of our lives online. Some of us have been lucky enough to stay safe by working from home during these strange times. But we don’t log off when the shift is over.

We then turn to Netflix or whatever your streaming service of choice is to stay entertained. All this online activity has probably put your internet connection front and center. If you’re not getting the speeds that you’re paying for, that’s a problem. Tap or click here to report slow internet to the FCC.

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Help Microsoft pick a new default font for Office

It’s time to kiss Calibri goodbye. For the first time in 15 years, Microsoft is changing its default Office font. Next year, it will have a completely new look — and you could even choose it.

That’s because Microsoft commissioned five potential new looks. Instead of leaving the decision-making to corporate, the company’s asking users like you to share their thoughts on social media. Give feedback and comment on social media, and your favorite fonts could be the future face of Microsoft Office.

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5 hidden Google Nest Cam settings you need to use

Having a personal butler at your front door is convenient, especially if you are worried about safety and security. But few can afford to employ an Alfred or a Belvedere. As an alternative, many have been turning to Google Nest’s smart cameras and doorbells.

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Use Roku? You may lose access to a popular streaming service

Video and music streaming services have skyrocketed in popularity over the last few years. The onset of the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns further increased the user bases of many platforms.

Netflix, the most popular paid-for streaming service by a long shot, added 4 million new subscribers so far in 2021, bringing its total viewers to 208 million. For the same period last year, the platform added 16 million new subscribers. Tap or click here for YouTube tricks and tips you’ll wish you knew sooner.

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True or false: Your smart TV is recording what you say

The pandemic has played no small part in the rise of couch potatoes. We’re working and learning from home, and while it’s great to use this time to be productive and discover new hobbies, the call of the tube is strong. New TV shows spring up overnight and movies that were destined for the big screen are streaming right to our homes.

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Windows 10 trick: Smart new ways to customize your taskbar

The taskbar in Windows 10 is probably one of the most neglected features of the operating system. Tap or click here for 5 new Windows 10 tricks you’ll wish you knew before now.

When major updates are rolled out, the taskbar is usually left unchanged. Over the years, it has received minimal design updates or functionality additions.

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Did Twitter just ask you to confirm your account? Here's why you should ignore it

There are so many online scams and hacks that it can be difficult to distinguish between an official communication and a spoofed message. We have covered scams in the past where criminals will attempt to hack your account by sending phony emails. Tap or click here to see a spoofed Netflix email.

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Like it or not, phony 'vaccine passport' apps are out there trying to steal your data

Millions of Americans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and many are eager to share their excitement. While it’s a bad idea to share your vaccination card on social media, cybercriminals are using other methods to steal your data. Don’t make these mistakes with your COVID vaccine card.

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11 smart home gadgets you'll actually use

A Google search for “life hack” returns, oh, just 403 million results. These tips and tricks exist to make life simpler or help you do something new. They go viral for a reason. We’re all looking for ways to make life easier, right?

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7 tech support scams going around right now

“Your computer has a virus. You must purchase this software now or your computer will crash. Better yet, has your car warranty expired?”

Scams are frustrating, but nothing gets to us more than tech support scams. When you’re looking for help and are desperate for a solution, criminals strike. They’re after your money, of course. That’s why the best protection is a shield of information.

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