In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe dig into the messy world of search, messaging apps, and productivity tools:

• Search and Safari Limits – Why Safari won’t let you set a truly custom search engine and how paid options like Kagi might be worth a look for cleaner, ad-free results.
• Keyboard Maestro Adventures – Michael finally convinced a friend to try Keyboard Maestro. The two share tips on disabling default macros, using ChatGPT for macro ideas, and avoiding the “Command+Tab hijack” surprise.
• Ad Overload and Usability Woes – A candid rant on how ads and cluttered websites break the browsing experience, and why many sites are losing trust with readers.
• Playing With Android – Michael activates a Samsung phone and runs headlong into AT\&T’s frustrating two-factor process, sparking a bigger conversation on usability and accessibility.
• VoIP and Short Code Roadblocks – Damashe shares insights from Doug on handling SMS for 2FA with VoIP numbers, SIM card workarounds, and forwarding solutions.
• Signal vs. WhatsApp – A deep dive into what works and what frustrates in both apps, from voice message playback speeds and call quality to cluttered interfaces and cross-device limitations.
• Beeper and Consolidation – Exploring how Beeper (now owned by Automattic) tries to unify messaging apps like Signal, WhatsApp, Google Messages, and more.
• BSI Braille Input – Michael and Damashe trade notes on Braille Screen Input across iOS and Android, including iOS 18’s expanded command mode.
• Passwords and Productivity – From being locked out after updates to GitHub’s new AI agents, the duo talk about tools that make workflows smoother—and the risks when they don’t.
• Community Thanks – A shout-out to tip jar supporters, reminders to rate the show in your favorite podcast app, and a call for listener feedback on search engines, messaging apps, and accessibility quirks.

Feedback is always welcome at feedback@technicallyworking.show, or connect on Mastodon:

• Michael: @payown@dragonscave.space
• Damashe: @damashe@technically.social
• Bot updates: @tw@technically.social

Hashtag your thoughts with #TechnicallyWorking so we can join the conversation!

Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working

Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co

Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/fc965623-67ba-4d7a-98bd-faba1aba5b2c

This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.