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#31
MUGOO Meetings / Re: 2025-03-24 MUGOO Zoom iMee...
Last post by DavidR - March 25, 2025, 04:05:12 PM
0 - Group chin-wag during log on
Ross shared a recent unfortunate experience of breaking his foot after falling into a telephone service pit (!) while walking in the woods. He will be another week in the "boot." It appears there may be some compensation from the phone company.
                                                                       
1 - News and Views - Members' new tech arrivals
Marc mentioned his recent upgrade to an Anker 200-watt Gallium nitride charger, which can charge two laptops at full power or six devices simultaneously https://www.anker.com/products/a2683-anker-prime-charger-200w-6-ports-gan?variant=43856909074582 He replaced several chargers with just this one. It's secure, very compact, and supports both Power Delivery 3 and USB C. It also works well as a travel charger.

Keith discussed his upgrade to Carbon Copy Cloner version 7, which now allows for separate backups of both his iPhone and Mac. It can essentially do everything that Time Machine does, but with more features and flexibility https://bombich.com

In our meeting, we reminisced about the history of MUGOO, which dates back to 1986. We discussed the early days, including bi-monthly newsletters, the transition from Postscript to True Type fonts, and the introduction of Quark and Pagemaker. Prior to the Centrepoint Library meeting venue, we used to gather at the Sir Robert Borden Cafeteria and prior to that at Up and Running on Churchill, then at the Merivale store. Marc has the original 1987 letters of incorporation and will mail these to Wally. NCMC/MUGOO is one of the oldest continually running Apple User Groups (Sydney Australia has had theirs since 1984). Some of our current members have been part of MUGOO since its inception.

To complete our walk down Memory Lane, you can view the April 1995 NCMC Update issue edited by LeRoy Lees and Steve Lawrenson ... 30 years ago! https://mugoo.com/bigfiles/2025_03_24_NCMC_Update_April_1995.pdf

2 - "Slo-Mo" - with Laurence Head
Laurence had logged into Zoom using a Safari window and was initially unable to share his screen. There may be some browser settings that would rectify this, but in the end it was easier to log out of the Safari window and use the Zoom app. Laurence was then able to share his screen successfully, allowing the group to view his desktop.

Laurence presented a series of slow-motion videos captured on various iPhone models, demonstrating the evolution of this feature since the iPhone 6. He explained that Apple's slow-motion video typically includes one second of normal speed at the beginning and end, with the middle portion slowed down. He showcased different examples, including water droplets creating bubbles and a wasp on a chair cushion, highlighting how slow-motion can reveal interesting details in nature. He also discussed the technical improvements in frame rates and resolution across iPhone generations, noting that the latest models offer 4K Dolby Vision at 120 frames per second. Recognize that such stunning high res videos require significant storage space, roughly 1 GB per minute.
   
Laurence also showed us other iPhone slo-mo examples, including a dog barking, waterfalls in Iceland, and pouring a carbonated soda drink. The group discussed the creative possibilities and limitations of slow-motion photography, including its impact on perceived scale and distance.

3 - Photomyne "No-Mo" frustration when you digitize photos - with Laurence Head
Laurence then presented the Photomyne photo scanner app https://photomyne.com/get-photomyne which he discovered through an Instagram ad. This was last presented at MUGOO by LeRoy in March 2017. For reference, that presentation deck has been included below. The app allows users to quickly digitize analog photographs using their smartphone camera, saving time compared to traditional scanning methods. It can capture multiple photos in a single shot, automatically crop and enhance them, and allows users to add metadata like dates, locations, and people's names. It's great for scanning old album pages and works best if the plastic overaly is first peeled back. Laurence mentioned that the app cost him $79 Canadian for two years of use which includes cloud backup. With a tripod, it's possible to process 400 images in an hour. LeRoy mentioned his recent experience of accessing old photos through the app, even after his membership had expired.
   
Laurence also shared a colourized and sharpened version of an old black and white photograph featuring his grandmother (Nana) and her mother in Toronto from the 1930s. He explained how he used Google Lens to identify the location and discussed the app's colourization process.

Lawrence mentioned his preferred method for digitizing slides using a mirrorless camera setup, which he finds effective despite being initially fiddly to set up. Ross suggested photographing slides on a light table using an iPhone, which Lawrence agreed to try. The group discussed other challenges with digitizing old photographs, including dealing with glare and dust.

Keith inquired about what to do with unused Kodak Carousel slide trays, and the group suggested selling them on Kijiji or eBay.

Gillian wrapped up the meeting, thanking Lawrence for his presentation and postponing the discussion on AI to a future meeting.

#32
MUGOO Meetings / 2025-03-24 MUGOO Zoom iMeeting
Last post by AdminMan - March 06, 2025, 03:28:21 PM
We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.

Date: Monday March 24, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET  You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/expired
Meeting ID:    expired
Passcode:      expired

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 - "Slo-Mo"  &  "No-Mo" ...
     -  using Slo-Mo video on the iPhone
     -  No-Mo frustration when you digitize photo
        albums using Photomyne                                                   with Laurence Head                      7:40 - 8:15

3-  Apple Intelligence and other AI options                               group discussion                           8:15 - 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!

Did you miss a meeting?
Sign up for emailed meeting notices! https://mugoo.com/index.php/Main/MeetingReminders

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
#33
MUGOO Meetings / Re: 2025-02-24 MUGOO Zoom iMe...
Last post by DavidR - February 25, 2025, 11:59:51 AM
0 - Group chin-wag during log on
Wally shared his excitement about the upcoming installation of fibre optic internet in his rural area, which would significantly improve his internet speed. Graham raised a concern about his Apple CarPlay not connecting after recent iOS upgrades, but others like Martin and LeRoy reported no issues. Ross guided Graham to the settings on his iPhone to locate and adjust CarPlay options. Gillian also faced a similar problem with her Dodge Grand Caravan not recognizing her iPhone. The team suggested restarting the device as a potential solution. Additionally, Wally and Graham suggested the need for software updates to the vehicle, which typically can only be done by authorized dealers.

1 - News and Views - Members' new tech arrivals
Graham mentioned his recent purchases of an iPad mini (Apple Silicon A17 Pro chip), Mac mini, and Apple Studio Display. The conversation then shifted to the availability of hearing aid features in AirPods Pro 2, with Graham expressing frustration about approval delays in Canada. Ross suggested that audiologists may be resisting over-the-counter non-prescription hearing aid technology due to potential business impacts. After the meeting, Graham provided a formal update from CASLPO (College of Audiologists and Speech Language Pathologists of Ontario). They are generally ok with it and pointed back to the provincial regulator. You can view a recent communication at https://caslpo.com/sites/default/uploads/files/PA_EN_nonprescribed_hearing_aids.pdf

The group also briefly touched on Apple's recent announcement of a $500 billion (!) investment in the United States over the next four years. It will focus on artificial intelligence, server farms, silicon engineering, and 20,000 new jobs across the country.

2 - Safari on iOS Get the most from your mobile browser - with David Rhynas
     Moderated viewing of Screencasts Online video by Lee Garret
David shared a video tutorial on how to effectively use Safari on iOS devices. We all know how to do a basic search, but there is much more capability here.  The tutorial covered various features and settings, including long pressing on icons for additional controls, utilizing the reader view for better content consumption, and the built-in translation feature. The presenter also shared a way to adjust font size and page colors in the reader view. Participants were encouraged to try out these features during the meeting, with questions and comments along the way. You can view a list of the topics covered in the first attachment below. For copyright reasons we cannot make the video a part of our permanent meeting record.

3 - February Apple Product Announcements - Group Discussion
David introduced a brief discussion about Apple's recent product announcement of the iPhone 16e, a less expensive version of the iPhone 16 with some trade-offs in features, particularly in camera capabilities. It uses the new C1, Apple's in-house developed cellular modem. There had been expectation that a new model of the iPhone SE, the current lowest cost version, would be announced. It appears now that the 16e is replacing the SE and there is some controversy that Apple is no longer attempting to compete in the lower priced phone market. You can view the product release video at https://www.apple.com/ca/iphone-16e/. A chart comparison of the 16 Pro, 16 and 16e is in the second attachment below.
   
The group also discussed other recent Apple product announcements and rumors, including the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds and potential updates to iPads and MacBooks. The meeting concluded with members sharing a few personal experiences and discussing the format of this evening's presentation, which was well-received.
   
#34
MUGOO Meetings / 2025-02-24 MUGOO Zoom iMeetin...
Last post by AdminMan - February 04, 2025, 10:28:14 PM
We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.

Date: Monday February 24, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET  You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us-expired
Meeting ID:  expired
Passcode:      expired

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 - Safari on iOS Get the most from your mobile browser...                      with David Rhynas        7:40 - 8:40
      Moderated viewing of Screencasts Online video
      by Lee Garret.  Most of these tips apply to macOS as well

3 - February Apple Product Announcements -                                          group Discussion          8:40 - 9:00       
    iPhone SE 4, Powerbeats Pro 2,
    MacBook Air, iPad Air, iPad 11


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!

Did you miss a meeting?
Sign up for emailed meeting notices! https://mugoo.com/index.php/Main/MeetingReminders

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
#35
MUGOO Meetings / Re: 2025-01-27 MUGOO Zoom iMee...
Last post by DavidR - January 28, 2025, 03:55:05 PM
0 - Group chin-wag during log on
The group welcomed new member Martin, who joined our Zoom session from Carleton Heights Ottawa. The opening conversation touched on various topics, including current weather conditions across our member locations, and we were all envious when Peter mentioned the blue sky and 8 degree temperature in Victoria.

LeRoy introduced a new AI app called DeepSeek, a competitor to ChatGPT that is now available on the App Store. While he was driving, it provided a better answer to his question about Robert Louis Stevenson's book publishing. David explained that DeepSeek not only provides responses but also reveals the reasoning behind them. This Chinese developed AI cost substantially less to develop and uses less data than competitors. The group discussed where to find more information about DeepSeek https://www.deepseek.com, and LeRoy noted that Nvidia's stock dropped 17% due to this new arrival. Marc mentioned an allegation that the company behind DeepSeek may have stolen 50,000 GPUs from Nvidia, potentially explaining its lower development costs.
                                                                         
1 - News and Views - Members' new tech arrivals
Lynda shared her recent purchase of a new iPad M4, which she has found to be significantly faster and more capable than her previous model. However, it also required the purchase of a new Apple Pencil and Bluetooth keyboard. She mentioned her interest in exploring the AI features that come with the new device. The front facing camera is now on the landscape edge and we all noticed an improvement in "direct eye contact."

Linda purchased an iPad Air 13 inch which she can use to view music scores in their original size and format

Graham shared his recent acquisition of a Mac Mini and a new Studio Display, describing the upgrade as a significant improvement. He also plans to replace his old iPad with a new iPad Mini.

Ian described his experience with a Drobo that had stopped working with macOS Sequoia, leading him to purchase a 14TB drive for information storage. Marc found it curious that even with a direct USB connection, the Drobo was not recognized.

2 - Zoom vs Facetime - a comparison - with David Rhynas
David discussed the history of teleconferencing, including his personal experience with early systems at Bell Canada. Video conferencing technology today has far surpassed his expectations from the 1980s.

David then explained Zoom's background, including its founder's departure from Cisco to create a superior platform. He highlighted Zoom's features, such as its compatibility with various devices, ability to host up to 1000 participants, and collaboration tools. David also mentioned Zoom's pricing structure, with free calls limited to 40 minutes and paid plans starting at $20 CAD per month.
   
David presented a comparison between Zoom and Apple's FaceTime. He highlighted the similarities and differences between the two platforms, including user interface, features, and capabilities. David noted that while FaceTime is fine for personal use, Zoom offers more features for professional gatherings. He also demonstrated how to set up a group call in FaceTime and shared his concerns about the potential issues that could arise when switching between Zoom and FaceTime. Wally praised Zoom's AI Companion meeting summary feature. You can view David's presentation deck and commentary at https://mugoo.com/bigfiles/2025-01-27_Zoom_vs_Facetime.pdf

In the discussion that followed, Lynda asked about the feasibility of using FaceTime with non-Apple users, and David explained that a link could be sent to join the call from a browser window rather than the Apple app.

There was also a query as to how Apple was able to synchronize the viewing of a locally streamed movie by multiple FaceTime participants. Marc explained that all movies have 1Kb time codes that are synced through the Apple server; these require minimal bandwidth and there is very little delay.

3 - LeRoy's Phishing Adventure - with LeRoy Lees
LeRoy shared a personal experience of being targeted by a scammer posing as a friend on Facebook, which led to a discussion about the importance of verifying the identity of contacts before engaging in any transactions. He warned the team to be cautious when dealing with money-related matters.

Lynda also shared her experience of being targeted by a phishing scam, but she was able to identify it due to a specific question she asked the caller. The group discussed various scams, including the grandparent scam, and the importance of being vigilant and not falling for emotional manipulation. We also noted the use of safe transfer places and the potential for scams to use artificial intelligence to mimic voices. The team agreed to remain cautious and to report any other suspicious activities.

4 - Brave Browser follow-up - with Graham Fawcett
Graham provided an update on his continued use of the Brave browser since his initial presentation in November. He shared his positive experience with the browser, highlighting its impressive security features and its ability to block ads and trackers. Graham also reported on the number of ads and trackers blocked by Brave, noting a significant increase from October to January. He mentioned only two minor issues he encountered, a page freeze during a Microsoft subscription and another with Netflix. Graham expressed his intention to continue using Brave and encouraged others to try it.
   
This was followed by a group discussion the security of passwords in different browsers, particularly in Brave and Safari. Graham has been using Brave for his online banking. Lynda raised a question about where passwords are saved. Marc explained that Brave stores passwords in its own secure locker, but he couldn't find information on how it secures the passwords. He prefers using an external password manager like One Password for better security. The group also discussed the potential risks of having passwords saved in a browser, especially if the browser is left open.

5 - Group FaceTime Test - with David Rhynas
As a final "experiment" for the evening, David launched a FaceTime session from the Zoom meeting. The experiment was partially successful, with some participants joining both calls, but there were technical difficulties, such as frozen images and audio issues. David concluded that Zoom was still the preferred service for our monthly iMeetings.
#36
MUGOO Meetings / 2025-01-27 MUGOO Zoom iMeeting...
Last post by AdminMan - January 06, 2025, 01:23:33 PM
We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.

Date: Monday January 27, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET  You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/expired
Meeting ID:    expired
Passcode:      expired

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 - Zoom vs Facetime - a comparison                      with David Rhynas                7:40 - 8:30

3 - LeRoy's Phishing Adventure                                with LeRoy Lees                    8:30 - 8:45

4 - Brave Browser follow-up                                  with Graham Fawcett                8:45 - 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!

Did you miss a meeting?
Sign up for emailed meeting notices! https://mugoo.com/index.php/Main/MeetingReminders

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
#37
MUGOO Meetings / Re: 2024-12-16 MUGOO Zoom iMe...
Last post by DavidR - December 17, 2024, 03:58:54 PM
This was our annual Show-n-Tell session.

Airfly Audio Transmitter presentation - with John Wilson
John presented a Bluetooth audio transmitter Airfly for use with his Apple AirPods https://www.twelvesouth.com/products/airfly .  The main purpose was connecting to their tour guides' QuietVox commentary without cumbersome wires.  It also worked well when listening to music or watching movies on a plane. He also tried it as an audio monitor for his vocal quartet, but Bluetooth latency is an issue, so it is not suitable for a live performance situation.  You can view John's presentation deck at https://mugoo.com/bigfiles/2024-12-16_Airfly.pdf

Iceland slideshow - with John Wilson
John presented a slideshow of his 18-day trip to Iceland, which included an 8-day cruise along the south coast.  He and his wife used a travel agent based in Reykjavik to help with the logistics, which proved to be a successful strategy.  John also mentioned that they took over 6,000 photos using their iPhones, and along the way shared the best of these in a private Facebook group.  John highlighted the challenges of driving on dirt roads and the beauty of the landscapes, including the waterfalls, black sand beaches, and basalt columns.  Highlights of the trip included the WestFjords and the Westman Islands.

Discovering Sable Island slideshow - with David Rhynas
David then shared his own slideshow of a recent expedition cruise to Atlantic Canada, focusing on Sable Island.  He discussed his photography kit, which includes an iPhone 15 Pro and a Fujifilm X-T5 digital single lens reflex camera, and how they were used to capture his experiences.

Sable Island is Canada's 43rd National Park, with a resident population of only four or five people at any given time.  The island is known for its 400 shipwrecks and various scientific research programs. The group observed the world's largest breeding colony of gray seals and the famous wild horses. The island's delicate ecosystem supports 200 species of vegetation, 350 bird species, numerous fish and insect species. The group had the opportunity to visit the island at sunset and hike about the dunes the next day, observing the wild horses and flora and fauna. The weather was favorable for their visit, allowing them to fully experience the island's natural beauty.  David also shared a video montage using a professional photographer's aerial drone, to showcase the island from an aerial perspective.

A Short Antarctica Seasonal slideshow - with Peter Koelbleitner
Peter then shared his experience of his 2023 Antarctic expedition, mentioning that he took around 8,000 photos during the 3-week trip.  He also introduced an app called Provoke Camera, which allows users to create black and white photos in the style of Japanese photographers from the 1960s http://www.tambo.jp/en/provoke/ .  Peter mentioned that he used a tool called Photo Stage to create this montage https://www.nchsoftware.com/slideshow/download-now.html .  You can view Peter's seasonal slide show at  https://mugoo.com/bigfiles/2024-12-16_Seasonal.mp4

Two Moods of Dallas video project - with Wally Kuzmicz
Wally shared a video he created using photographs and clips from his 2014 trip to Dallas, Texas. The video was about two moods of Dallas, one being the silly mood of visiting the Dallas TV program museum and the other being the serious mood of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The video was well-received, but there were some Zoom technical issues with the audio, particularly suppression of the music tracks.  David and Wally agreed to test the video offline before our next meeting in January.  You can view Wally's video at  https://mugoo.com/bigfiles/2024-12-16_Dallas.mp4 .  It demonstrates how images are more powerful with the appropriate audio accompaniment.

Before signing off, the group also discussed their holiday plans and wished each other a happy holiday season.
#38
MUGOO Meetings / 2024-12-16 MUGOO Zoom iMeetin...
Last post by AdminMan - November 26, 2024, 09:00:27 PM
We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.

Date: Monday December 16, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM ET  You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/expired
Meeting ID:    expired
Passcode:        expired

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:

Presentations on the Agenda so far...

Airfly audio device                                        - John Wilson
Iceland slideshow                                          - John Wilson

Discovering Sable Island - slideshow          - David Rhynas

A short seasonal slideshow                          - Peter Koelbleitner

Two moods of Dallas - video project            - Wally Kuzmicz


This meeting will be the Zoom annual Show-n-Tell on Monday December 16th at 7:30.  We invite you to show off the things you've been doing using Apple technology ... hardware, software, services and Apple-related websites.  This includes but is not limited to ...

- photo slideshows
- video projects
- audio/music projects
- interesting use of applications (for example Gillian gave a nice presentation on organizing her household things using a spreadsheet)
- how you manage your life and entertain yourself using Apple-related technology

Please email your presentation offers to show@mugoo.com

Cheers,

Prez Wally

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!

Did you miss a meeting?
Sign up for emailed meeting notices! https://mugoo.com/index.php/Main/MeetingReminders

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
#39
MUGOO Meetings / Re: 2024-11-25 MUGOO Zoom iMee...
Last post by DavidR - November 26, 2024, 08:48:21 PM
0 - Group chin-wag during log on
Our MUGOO social gathering at the Royal Oak on November 19th was most enjoyable, with 12 participants, and we hope to do it more regularly.

Marc outlined his current project, to render a series of Babylon 5 episodes using Handbrake and running multiple programs simultaneously on his Mac Mini M2 Pro.  He is knitting together online bits and blu-ray versions, while attempting to harmonize the video; think of it as a "Mongolian barbecue".  Marc's ultimate goal is to create an "editor's choice" version by combining the best elements from different sources of the episodes.

1 - News and Views - Members' new tech arrivals
Marc will be upgrading to a Mac Mini M4 Pro in the Spring.  Graham is planning to get a new iMac as his current one is outdated.  Leroy recently purchased AirPods Pro on sale.  Bill is considering upgrading from an iPad 6th generation to either the 10th generation iPad or iPad Air for future AI capabilities.  The group discussed upcoming Black Friday deals.  Apple typically does not offer major discounts on Black Friday, but may provide gift cards depending on the amount of your purchase.

2 - Brave Browser -  with Graham Fawcett
Graham presented an overview of the Brave web browser, which is focused on privacy and blocks most ads and website trackers by default https://brave.com .  It also offers faster web page loading, and easier navigation.  Brave has optional approved ads that users can opt in to view as a means of earning token rewards.  Graham observed that Brave, along with a few other privacy-focused browsers, still only occupy a small 1% share of the overall browser market space.

The presentation addressed key details about Brave's features, user base, and background on the Chromium engine it is based on.  Graham also compared Brave with Safari and DuckDuckGo, highlighting the differences in their features and functions.  He navigated to several websites to demonstrate how Brave effectively removes ads and trackers, and how it can save time and protect personal information.  Graham then presented a more detailed comparison of other browsers, focusing on their privacy features and performance.  You can view Graham's presentation slides at https://mugoo.com/bigfiles/2024-11-25_Brave_Presentation.pdf

The group discussed the potential of using Brave as a more private browser, with David expressing interest in trying it out.  Marc shared his past experience with Brave, noting that it broke some websites, but he was willing to give it another try.  The group agreed to revisit the topic at the January meeting, with Graham planning to provide a follow-up on his own use of Brave. 

3 - Apple Intelligence meets photography - LeRoy Lees and Wally Kuzmicz
Leroy outlined Apple's recently introduced Cleanup feature in Photos, which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to remove distractions from photographs.  You need an M-series iPad iOS 18.1 or macOS Sequoia, iPhone 15 Pro or ProMax or later.  He discussed the feature's capabilities, such as removing people, cars, wires, and shadows, and its ease of use.  The feature is particularly helpful for processing personal photographs and is essentially built into the operating system, making it free to use.  Even with AI changes, it is always possible to revert back to your original image.  Lightroom or Photoshop might be better for high end editing, but they cost money and time.  As Marc indicated, Photos is a good "90%" solution.  You can view LeRoy's presentation slides below.

Leroy also mentioned some upcoming features in Photos, including the ability to prepare movies from a narrative text prompt. He also recommended a book by Jason Snell, "Take Control of Photos 4th Edition," for further learning https://books.apple.com/ca/book/take-control-of-photos-fourth-edition/id6723865332 .

Wally demonstrated the use of Cleanup.  He showed how the tool can identify and remove objects such as people, vehicles, and even photobombers, with varying degrees of success. The tool also allows for manual adjustments and cleanups. There is even potential for Cleanup be used in creating new art genres.  The group agreed that the tool's ability to remove unwanted objects from images is impressive and can be considered as "close to magic."

4 - Post Agenda
In the post agenda chat, several long-time members reminisced about the early days of our computer club, discussing the evolution of technology and the importance of embracing change.  Charles shared his experience using Apple computers even before the Macintosh, and showed us a 1989 issue of the club's newsletter ... at that time under our former moniker NCMC – National Capital Macintosh Club.  Marc even has the original 1987 letters of incorporation.  NCMC/MUGOO is one of the oldest continually running Apple User Groups.  Sydney Australia has had theirs since 1984.

The next meeting, in three weeks, is our annual show and tell session.

#40
MUGOO Meetings / 2024-11-25 MUGOO Zoom iMeeting
Last post by AdminMan - November 12, 2024, 01:17:20 PM
We still cannot have in-person meetings at the library. So we will use Zoom.

Date: Monday November 25, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM ET  You can join the Zoom meeting starting at 7:20.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/expired

Meeting ID:      expired
Passcode:         expired

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 - Brave Browser                                           -  with Graham Fawcett                    7:40 -  8:15

3 - Apple Intelligence meets photography    -   group discussion                          8:15 - 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!

Did you miss a meeting?
Sign up for emailed meeting notices! https://mugoo.com/index.php/Main/MeetingReminders

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