A lot of people think once their Airtag dies, they have to throw it away. I am here to bust that myth with 3 simple steps to change your Airtag battery. *No tools required
Your EV battery knows where you’ve been even if GPS is off
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You already know your smartphone tracks your every move like a jealous ex. And your car? Duh, it’s been watching you since Bluetooth became a thing.
Here’s the shocker: Researchers at MIT just revealed that your EV battery alone can quietly map your life without GPS, Wi-Fi or cell signals.
Before you even think, “Kim, this doesn’t matter to me. I drive a gas car.” It’s important because at some point, you’ll probably own a hybrid.
📍 EVs’ breadcrumb trail
Every time you accelerate, brake, idle or park, your battery’s energy use shifts. Researchers fed this data into machine learning models, and boom, they could pinpoint your starting point, destination, route and even how long you were at a stoplight. With over 90% accuracy. Dang.
Worse, this battery data is being collected and stored by carmakers, service centers, EV charging apps, insurers or anyone willing to pay for behavioral gold.
This isn’t just a Tesla thing. It’s any modern EV or plug-in hybrid with built-in telematics, which includes most new vehicles.
⚠️ What happens if you turn telematics off?
Yes, you can disable telematics in many cars (though it’s buried in menus or requires dealer help). But here’s what you give up:
- Over-the-air updates for features and security patches
- Remote access via apps (locking/unlocking, remote start, pre-air conditioning)
- Emergency crash response (like GM’s OnStar or Ford’s 911 Assist)
- Battery health reporting and smart diagnostics
It’s a trade-off: privacy vs. convenience. Most people never knew they were trading in the first place.
🔎 See what your car knows about you
True or false: You need antivirus protection for your phone
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I wrote about tech myths recently and missed a big one: “Phones can’t get viruses.”
Of course they can! Your phone is basically a mini-computer and a prime target for hackers. Let’s break down how these threats work and where they come from.
I found your next favorite gadgets
🧠 Upgrading your tech game shouldn’t melt your brain (or your wallet).
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We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
3 ways to charge your phone faster
Did you forget to power up your phone overnight? Here are some quick tips to help speed up your charging time so you can get back to full battery.
🍏 iPhone 16 details revealed: Apple announced the iPhone 16 lineup yesterday — bigger screens, improved camera specs and the “best battery life ever.” All models come with Apple Intelligence thanks to the A18 chip, plus studio-quality mics. Pro models get a 48MP ultrawide lens for pics (up from 12MP on the iPhone 15 Pro) and support 4K 120fps recording (pro quality). Preorders start this Friday, Sept. 13, and they’ll ship beginning on Sept. 20. Oh, and expect to spend $799 to $1,199.
Wait, are public phone chargers dangerous?
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Those charging kiosks in airports, hotels and malls are so tempting when you’re out and about with a dying phone. Their owners promise they’re safe. The government disagrees, and so do I. Groan, I know.
Welcome to the newest phase of juice jacking. The phenomenon has been around for more than 10 years. Hackers use public phone-charging stations to upload malware to your devices. Then, they ransom your device or steal your passwords. Super-duper.
Antivirus isn't just for your computer - Here's why you should protect your smartphone, too
© Georgejmclittle | Dreamstime.com
You probably know that antivirus software is essential for your computer. Without it, you’re browsing without protection, exposing yourself to ransomware, viruses, Trojans, spyware and countless other threats. But your computer isn’t the only gadget that needs antivirus protection.
Dog sets the house on fire
An indoor cam caught a dog chewing on a lithium-ion battery power bank, which then set the house on fire. The flames spread through the living room in minutes. The family (and all their pets) got out safely. Note to self: Keep power banks up high away from Abby.
Last call for ‘Prime Day’
⏰ Quick, there’s still time to grab the best of the best.
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- 🔋 Watch your battery: A key chain charger (44% off) can power any Apple Watch and fits in your pocket.
- ⚡ Transfer data, fast: Photographers, you need this little SD card reader (38% off) with dual slots.
- 🤓 Screen time saver: Ease eyestrain with these blue-light-blocking glasses (37% off). Handy case included.
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🛒 Don’t miss out! Head to my Amazon storefront to scoop up the rest of my Komando-approved Prime Day deals before they’re gone.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
Blackout prep
⚡ The outage in Europe shows how it’s key to stay ready.
- Stay updated on emergency alerts with a hand-crank radio (11% off).
- Use a solar power charger power bank (36% off) to juice up with the sun.
- These emergency LEDs ($22) automatically light up when the power fails.
- Get a four-pack of rechargeable bulbs (20% off) that self-charge.
- Crack, shake and go for 12 hours with a 12-pack of glow sticks (13% off).
- No AC? This rechargeable portable fan (8% off) keeps the air moving.
- Keep warm with a 45-pack of hand and body warmers (40% off).
🪫 Don’t run on empty: Stock up on AA and AAA batteries from Duracell (19% off) or Energizer (23% off).
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
Check your car for a hidden tracker
A guy who bought a Toyota Corolla discovered a hidden GPS he thinks the dealer installed. When the battery ran out of juice, he checked the OBDII port and there was a tracker. Here’s how he found the tracker.
How to change an AirTag battery
Is your tracker running low on juice? No need to buy a new one for $29 — just replace the battery for a few bucks!
Tesla traps toddler inside after battery dies
A girl was saved from a Tesla Model Y in 100-degree weather in Arizona. Plus, two Florida seniors were scammed out of $400,000 in gold, and there’s a nationwide coffee recall. Plus, we talk to Brian Morrison, creator of Free Blockbuster — it’s like those little free libraries, but for movies.
Tips for better iPhone battery life
Phone dying too fast throughout the day? Try one or all of these tips for more juice.
3 reasons you shouldn't go another day without antivirus software
Photo © Chatree Bamrung | Dreamstime.com
If you don’t have antivirus software, you’re putting every internet-connected gadget you own at risk. Something as simple as an unchanged router password can be an entry point for an invader to shut down your phone or even taunt your children through a security camera or smart speaker.
Tech on a budget: You don’t have to spend $200 or more for high-quality earbuds. Raycons have studio-quality sound and a whopping 32 hours of battery life, and they fit comfortably in every ear with precise fittings. Grab ‘em for 20% off (and free shipping!) at BuyRaycon.com/kim.
One email cost this man $167K
Pat Lawlor was happy to buy his first home — until he received a fake email from someone he thought was his escrow officer. Plus, closing apps doesn’t save iPhone battery, a flame-throwing robot dog, and Amazon’s new grocery delivery.
How to check if your e-bike battery is legit
E-bike batteries have been lighting up more than just the road — they’re sparking fires. I share tips on how to make sure yours is safe.
Taking care of aging parents? Here's a simple way to keep an eye on what's happening
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Independence, safety and peace of mind. These are the most important elements for seniors living at home and their loved ones. Parents who wish to maintain their independence by living alone can be a double-edged sword. You’re happy they’re still self-sufficient, but you’re nervous about what can happen in an emergency.