We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.
Date: Monday June 23, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.
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Although Zoom works in many browsers we STRONGLY recommend using the dedicated app on your device with the largest screen for the best experience.
You do NOT need a Zoom account to join a meeting!
If you need instructions, go here: https://mugoo.com/index.php/Main/UsingZOOM
Agenda:
0 - Group chin-wag during log on 7:20 - 7:30
1 - News and Views - Members' new tech arrivals 7:30 - 7:40
2 Roundtable group discussions ... 7:40 - 9:00
A - What's new from Apple's WWDC held June 9-13
B - Your experiences with ChatGPT and any other
Artificial Intelligence sources
Unfortunately, no after meeting wings or desserts at the Royal Oak, but feel free to prepare your own snacks and share them with us on screen!
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Don't forget the Ottawa Public Library!
Even though we are unable to meet in person at the library, the OPL still offers a wealth of services you can access online. Go to https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en
1 - News and views
The group discussed Gander Social, a new Canadian social media platform similar to Facebook but with a focus on posts and videos, which is currently in beta testing and set to launch in the fall with Arlene Dickinson's support. There was a brief discussion about old computer equipment, specifically Iomega Zip drives, and their technological advancements over time.
2 - Roundtable discussions:
A - WWDC 2025 - WorldWide Developers Conference
B - AI - Artificial Intelligence
Wally showed ...
- a Mac Rumours summary of WWDC 2025 with follow-up links
https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/wwdc/#:~:text=At%20the%20WWDC%202025%20keynote,a%20Mac%20than%20ever%20before.
- a 10-minute YouTube video from The Verge showing highlights of WWDC 2025
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjr4iFzlLjo
- Two video segments from YouTuber Marques Brownlee about Apple's AI position and the new Spotlight incorporating some features of Raycast app https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1E3tv_3D95g
AI segment ... 0:00 to 0:54
Spotlight segment ... 9:26 to 10:57
2A - WWDC and Apple OS Features Overview
Apple WWDC 2025 Key Updates ...
Wally presented a summary of Apple's WWDC 2025 announcements, highlighting significant updates to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and other Apple platforms. He noted that the iPad is becoming more Mac-like, with new features like multiple overlapping windows and a cursor, making it a more compelling laptop alternative. Wally also discussed the new Spotlight search capabilities in macOS, which now offers more advanced productivity features similar to third-party tools like Raycast. The group discussed the timeline for the new OS releases, with developer betas available now, public betas in July, and official releases expected in September or October.
CarPlay Features and Limitations ...
The group discussed the limitations and features of CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra, noting that CarPlay Ultra, available in select models like Alfa Romeo, integrates manufacturer specifications into a unified interface, though only a few manufacturers are currently participating. John shared that CarPlay and Audi features cannot coexist, forcing a choice between the two.
Other ...
Graham mentioned the upcoming availability of Notes on the Apple Watch, which surprised him, and Stephen expressed enthusiasm for the Preview app's versatility on both Mac and iPad, highlighting its use as a default PDF viewer.
2B - AI Search Tools: Benefits and Concerns
The group discussed their experiences with ChatGPT and AI-powered search responses. Wally and LeRoy shared positive experiences using AI for technical questions and problem-solving, noting significant improvements in the quality and accuracy of responses over recent months. They emphasized the convenience of AI for quick answers, though Wally expressed some concerns about potential negative impacts.
The group discussed ChatGPT and Apple's writing tools for improving emails. Stephen shared his experience using ChatGPT to rewrite emails in a friendlier tone, highlighting its ability to transform text quickly and efficiently. The conversation touched on the potential of AI in creating business plans and the need to experiment with these tools to prepare for future advancements.
Perplexity Search Engine Review ...
Laurence discussed Perplexity, a search engine that provides detailed and referenced answers to specific questions. He praised its ability to offer accurate information with references, continuity in searches, and the option to follow up without repeating the entire search. Laurence discussed Perplexity's honesty in acknowledging uncertainties. He mentioned that it is available for free at a basic level, with a paid pro version, and is accessible on various platforms.
ChatGPT Accuracy and Follow-Ups ...
John shared his experience with ChatGPT, noting that while it provided a thorough but incorrect answer to a broad question, it acknowledged its mistake when asked follow-up questions. Neil discussed his experiences with ChatGPT, highlighting both its useful responses to questions and its inaccuracies
AI Search Engine Reliability Concerns ...
Neil expressed concerns about the accuracy of AI-generated search results, while Laurence recommended using Perplexity as an alternative search engine that provides source citations and explains uncertainty in its results. The discussion concluded with participants agreeing to experiment with different AI search tools over the summer, though some expressed skepticism about relying on AI for important information.