Samsung Messages getting retired, new tool reveals what’s slowing your internet & Sonos makes a comeback (Episode 169, April 11, 2026)
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Rich DeMuro kicks off Episode 169 of Rich on Tech with a mindful reflection before diving into critical tech updates affecting everyday users. The episode highlights the retirement of Samsung Messages by July 2026, urging Galaxy users to switch to Google Messages for better RCS support, encryption, and cross-platform compatibility. Amazon will also discontinue support for Kindles and Kindle Fires from 2012 or earlier after May 20, 2026, cutting off access to new content. Cybersecurity remains a pressing concern, with $21 billion lost to online scams in 2025—driven by AI-powered voice cloning and phishing—prompting Rich to recommend tools like BBB Scam Tracker and ic3.gov. A major tech highlight is Orb.net, a new free diagnostic tool by Speedtest co-creator Doug Suttles, which measures internet responsiveness and reliability beyond raw speed. The episode celebrates Sonos’s comeback with the launch of the portable, battery-powered Sonos Play and the no-mic ERA 100 SL, both designed for seamless integration and improved user experience after years of app struggles. Listener feedback underscores the show’s real-world impact, from family trips inspired by the podcast to practical tech tips for seniors and professionals. Rich also shares personal stories, including the origins of the show and upcoming guest Ann Goldberg, an 73-year-old author offering smartphone guidance for older adults, while emphasizing driving safety and the importance of avoiding distractions behind the wheel.
Switch from Samsung Messages to Google Messages by July 2026 to maintain RCS, encryption, and cross-platform compatibility.
Amazon will stop supporting Kindles and Kindle Fires from 2012 or earlier after May 20, 2026—new content downloads will no longer be possible.
Cybercrime losses reached $21 billion in 2025, with AI-driven scams on the rise; avoid urgency-based requests and use BBB Scam Tracker and ic3.gov for reporting.
Orb.net is a free, continuous internet health monitor that evaluates connection responsiveness and reliability, not just speed.
Sonos has recovered from past app issues and launched new portable, battery-powered Play speakers and the no-voice-control ERA 100 SL for seamless system expansion.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Mindfulness, Scams, and the End of Samsung Messages
“The FBI says 78% of victims they contacted had no idea they were being scammed. They just thought they were doing what was right.”
Amazon's Kindle Sunset and Landline Dilemmas
“You're not going to be able to get another landline to your home. If they're ripping these lines out in 2027, I would say your option is, number one, get this thing fixed before 2027 so you can at least enjoy it for the next year.”
Orb: A New Era in Internet Diagnostics
“Orb is a bit of a paradigm shift in that, you know, I like to use automotive analogies with this because I think they are easiest to convey the premise.”
Sonos’ Comeback and Listener Tech Troubleshooting
Rich reviews Sonos’ recent turnaround, speaking with Ross Barber about their new Play and ERA 100 SL speakers. The Play offers 24-hour battery life, IP67 waterproofing, and acts as a power bank. The SL model lacks microphones, making it ideal for stereo pairs or home theater expansion. Rich also addresses listener calls on email sync issues (POP3 vs IMAP), texting oneself on Android, and using MagicJack for backup calling—highlighting the importance of modern, reliable alternatives to outdated tech.
Introducing the Sonos Play: A Portable, Power-Backed Speaker
“Each Sonos Play can actually also act as a power bank. So if your battery is running low or you're camping for the weekend, you can actually plug a USB-C cable into the back and pull some power out and charge your phone and keep the music going.”
“The joy of Sonos isn't just that all these products work together. It's that you just need power and, of course, with Sonos Play, not even that if it's charged. So yeah, that truly is what makes Sonos magical.”
“You're not going to be able to get another landline to your home. If they're ripping these lines out in 2027, I would say your option is, number one, get this thing fixed before 2027 so you can at least enjoy it for the next year.”
“The FBI says 78% of victims they contacted had no idea they were being scammed. They just thought they were doing what was right.”
Hosts
Guests
Google Messages
product
Ross Barber
person
Samsung Messages
product
Sonos Play
product
Amazon Kindle
other
Orb
product
Sonos
brand
ERA 100 SL
product
Rich D'Amiro
person
Doug Suttles
person
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