We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.
Date: Monday September 22, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.
Join Zoom Meeting
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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 - Making AI work for you
- Asking it good questions, and lots more with Leroy Lees 7:40 - 8:30
3 - Apple's September 9th event group chat 8:30 - 9:00
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
0 - Group chin-wag during log on
Charles discussed his recent cataract surgery and the need for specialized glasses, while also showing us and sharing details about his Bengal cat, which is a rare, hypoallergenic breed. Keith joined the call briefly, mentioning he was walking home for dinner ... our first mobile participant!
John described he and his wife's upcoming expedition cruise to Antarctica with Viking including the health screening requirements, and plans for a future cruise in the Northwest Passage. The conversation ended with a brief discussion about upgrading to an iPhone 17 Pro with better camera capabilities, particularly for his trip to Antarctica.
1 - News and Views - Members' new tech arrivals
LeRoy shared his recent experience upgrading to the new iPhone 17 Pro Max https://www.apple.com/ca/iphone-17-pro/. He made the purchase while lying in bed at 8 am and picked it up the next day. He highlighted some of the improved features like a larger screen, better camera with 8X optical zoom, and the transition to eSIM-only technology. While the direct old to new phone transfer did not work, it was quite straight forward transferring data using his iCloud backup. There is a fairly easy process to update wallet and credit card details. He also pointed out some differences with the CarPlay setup. His new iPhone is Cosmic Orange and overall, most things worked correctly and it is faster/smoother. Judging by Apple's share price, the new iPhone lineup has been well received.
John inquired about the availability of physical SIM trays and eSIM costs for international travel, which David and LeRoy discussed, noting that there are now a number of eSIM international service providers.
2 - Making AI Work for You: asking it good questions, and lots more - with Leroy Lees
LeRoy gave his presentation on using ChatGPT https://chatgpt.com, emphasizing the importance of phrasing questions effectively and treating the AI as a computer rather than a person. He shared his experience with accessing and using ChatGPT, highlighting the benefits of sticking to one app before exploring others. LeRoy also demonstrated the utility of the sidebar feature for reviewing previous questions and answers, and shared a real-world example of using ChatGPT to assist an elderly client with keyboard issues on a new iMac.
He also described using ChatGPT to locate a friend's location on Find My Friends after six months of unsuccessful attempts, and to research his birth parents' background in Edmonton. LeRoy emphasized the importance of proper prompt phrasing and highlighted how ChatGPT provided quick solutions to various challenges, from finding jokes to suggesting gifts for palliative care patients. You can view LeRoy's presentation slides below.
David demonstrated how ChatGPT can create personalized birthday images, while Stephen and others noted that while ChatGPT provides a useful starting point, users should verify the information and cross-reference with other sources like Ancestry.ca or Wikipedia.org. The conversation concluded with Lynda raising a technical question about potential conflicts between Apple's built-in ChatGPT functionality and the standalone ChatGPT app. Preliminary research indicates that there can indeed be conflicts and privacy concerns, which could be a future meeting topic.
The group discussed various AI chat tools and their experiences with them, including ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Perplexity. Neil shared his experiences with Copilot's impressive coding capabilities and accuracy issues with ChatGPT.
3 - Apple's September 9th Event - group chat
The conversation then shifted to Apple's recent product announcements, including the iPhone 17 lineup, AirPods Pro 3, and new Apple Watch features. You can view a summary of the new features in the second attachment below. The group also discussed durability concerns with the new iPhone models and potential accessories for professional use https://postperspective.com/blackmagic-camera-prodock-for-iphone-17-prores-raw-to-resolve/. John recommended the Pocket Tripod, which is a credit card size, foldable tripod for smartphones https://geometrical-inc.com