Geekly Update - 26 February 2025

The AskBobRankin Geekly Update

This just in from the Tech Support Rage Department: If you've ever called customer support heard this: "We are experiencing longer waiting times and we apologize for the inconvenience..." it's probably a deliberate lie. According to insider information, HP is trying to force consumers to use online and other digital support channels by setting a minimum 15-minute wait time for anyone that phones the call center to get help with PC and print problems.

The Windows 11 update that rolled out on Feb 11 fixed a few bugs, but also broke things. Some users are complaining that File Explorer won't open the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. Others note that File Explorer refuses to open via the desktop shortcut or Windows Search. There have also been complaints that the update takes hours to complete, and in some cases causes problems with the mouse and camera. Not a good look for a company that hopes to sunset support for Windows 10 in just a few months.

The FDA has approved the “Loss of Pulse Detection” feature for Google's Pixel Watch 3. By the end of March, it will begin to roll out to US devices. The Pixel Watch 3's Loss of Pulse Detection feature will prompt you if it detects that you have lost your pulse due to an overdose or heart attack. It will automatically contact emergency services on your behalf if you don't answer.

It can be upsetting to discover that someone else has posted your private information online. Google's recently updated “Results about you” tool works by looking for results that contain information like your address or phone number, and can help you to remove them. The tool is now easier to find and use, allowing one to make a removal request with fewer clicks and view an updated menu that explains what content is eligible for removal when you click on the three dots next to a result.

The makers of the Unitree G1 robot have trained it to do Kung Fu moves. It didn't take long for one of the commenters on this video to note that "Every bot was Kung Fu Fighting!"

Singaporean startup Flint has developed a paper-based battery that's safer and cheaper than lithium-ion while offering comparable energy density. It can be recycled and dropped in compost at the end of its life cycle.

"Hey Ma, we just got Wi-Fi in the Back Forty!" If you want your wifi signal to extend to all corners of your home, and well beyond, you need a router that can kick out a good strong signal. Morse Micro's new MM-HL1-EXT is a Wi-Fi HaLow router that promises to achieve connectivity ranges of up to 10 miles in rural areas and 1.86 miles in urban environments.

It's important to store VHS tapes in a dry environment, to ensure your video memories are preserved. If you have old VHS tapes that won't play because they've become damaged by mold, this handy 3D-printed VHS cleaning machine might make them playable again.

German authorities were baffled by the discovery of QR codes that were stuck on over 1000 gravestones in a Munich cemetery. It turned out they were placed there by a company hired to clean the graves. The QR codes, which contained only the name of the deceased and the location of the grave, helped employees keep track of which headstones had already undergone maintenance.

And finally, here's something for you composters... Coffee Grounds And Reishi Mushroom Spores Can Be 3D Printed Into a Compostable Alternative To Plastics

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