Techstravaganza

Blog

  • One Hour Reminder! Techstravaganza Extra Workshop for Friday, August 7, 2026 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM Eastern! Don’t miss it!

    Hello Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope that you’re having a wonderful summer, and that your week has been an awesome one!

    This is just a heads up that this evening from 7:00 to 9:00 PM Eastern, we will be hosting another fun filled Techstravaganza Extra. We would love for you all to come and join us as we take you on a tour of the Google Meet application on both the Web and the mobile platforms.

    Although we have officially decided to stay on Zoom as our platform of choice for all of our Techstravaganza workshops, we would like to walk you through Google Meet as well, as many companies are switching to Google meet from Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

    Here is the conference information you will need to join the workshop:

    Siena Trigiani is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

    Topic: techstravaganza Extra
    Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime
    Join Zoom Meeting
    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85255120562?pwd=KlwLbGDhqMLNkxqTPVjbczksaMRBhj.1

    Meeting agenda
    https://docs.zoom.us/agenda/doc/d7f8d918-113e-4133-99af-53c3de5fbe04

    Meeting chat link
    https://us06web.zoom.us/launch/jc/85255120562

    View meeting insights
    https://us06web.zoom.us/launch/edl?muid=d7f8d918-113e-4133-99af-53c3de5fbe04

    Meeting ID: 852 5512 0562
    Passcode: 020304

    One tap mobile
    +16475580588,,85255120562#,,,,020304# Canada +17789072071,,85255120562#,,,,020304# Canada

    Join by SIP

    • 85255120562@zoomcrc.com

    Join instructions
    https://us06web.zoom.us/meetings/85255120562/invitations?signature=XTGBJbxAqI1tL-PkeGLPwAulItJHjdnIMyJbJL5yxJ4

    Special Announcement!

    I would like to inform you that I will be absent from Techstravaganza starting from Wednesday, August 26, up until Wednesday, October 7, 2026 as I will be on vacation during that time.. However, rest assured that Techstravaganza will still run in my absence, as Ali, Macara, Ashlyn and Lily will be with you to hold the fort and present to you some exciting tutorials! As such, please be advised that on Wednesday, August 26, and for the duration of the month of September, Techstravaganza will temporarily be switching to Google Meet, and will return to Zoom upon my return in October. In the meantime, we hope that you will enjoy this evening’s tutorial and that you will find it useful! Looking forward to seeing you all tonight!

    If you have any questions or suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team:

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you this evening for an exciting Techstravaganza extra!

  • Techstravaganza Extra Reminder for Friday, August 7, 2026 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM Eastern! Don’t miss it!

    Hello Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope that you’re having a wonderful summer, and that your week has been an awesome one!

    This is just a heads up that on Friday, August 7, 2026 (tomorrow evening),from 7:00 to 9:00 PM Eastern, we will be hosting a Techstravaganza Extra. We would love for you all to come and join us as we take you on a tour of the Google Meet application on both the Web and the mobile platforms.

    Although we have officially decided to stay on Zoom as our platform of choice for all of our Techstravaganza workshops, we would like to walk you through Google Meet as well, as many companies are switching to Google meet from Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

    Here is the conference information you will need to join the workshop:

    Siena Trigiani is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

    Topic: techstravaganza Extra
    Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime
    Join Zoom Meeting
    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85255120562?pwd=KlwLbGDhqMLNkxqTPVjbczksaMRBhj.1

    Meeting agenda
    https://docs.zoom.us/agenda/doc/d7f8d918-113e-4133-99af-53c3de5fbe04

    Meeting chat link
    https://us06web.zoom.us/launch/jc/85255120562

    View meeting insights
    https://us06web.zoom.us/launch/edl?muid=d7f8d918-113e-4133-99af-53c3de5fbe04

    Meeting ID: 852 5512 0562
    Passcode: 020304

    One tap mobile
    +16475580588,,85255120562#,,,,020304# Canada +17789072071,,85255120562#,,,,020304# Canada

    Join by SIP

    • 85255120562@zoomcrc.com

    Join instructions
    https://us06web.zoom.us/meetings/85255120562/invitations?signature=XTGBJbxAqI1tL-PkeGLPwAulItJHjdnIMyJbJL5yxJ4

    Special Announcement!

    I would like to inform you that I will be absent from Techstravaganza starting from Wednesday, August 26, up until Wednesday, October 7, 2026 as I will be on vacation during that time.. However, rest assured that Techstravaganza will still run in my absence, as Ali, Macara, Ashlyn and Lily will be with you to hold the fort and present to you some exciting tutorials! As such, please be advised that on Wednesday, August 26, and for the duration of the month of September, Techstravaganza will temporarily be switching to Google Meet, and will return to Zoom upon my return in October. In the meantime, we hope that you will enjoy tomorrow’s tutorial and that you will find it useful! Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow night!

    If you have any questions or suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team:

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you tomorrow evening for an exciting Techstravaganza extra!

  • Setting the iPhone to Factory Reset (Part 1), Wednesday, August 5, 2026

    Good afternoon Techstravaganza friends,

    We’ve got an excellent tutorial of setting up an iPhone from the factory reset for you this afternoon! Have a listen at the following link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ege3prvnhOLwVjKFXSP2A

    Show Notes

    iOS 27 Beta Bug: VoiceOver Activity Voice Reverting to Samantha Compact

    Siena identified a bug in the iOS 27 Beta where the VoiceOver voice reverts to “Samantha Compact” whenever a VoiceOver Activity (e.g., Tutorials) is selected, despite the user having set “Alex” as the voice for all activities.

    • Details
      • Siena: Demonstrated the bug live by switching into the Tutorials activity, showing the voice switching from Alex to Samantha Compact regardless of the activity selected.
      • Ali: Confirmed he observed the behavior.
      • Siena: Noted that Samantha Compact sounds like “a grumpy manager at the office who woke up on the wrong side of the bed,” and that she planned to report the bug that evening.
      • Ali: Agreed the voice is unpleasant and confirmed the issue.
    • Conclusion
      • The bug is specific to iOS 27 Beta and affects VoiceOver activity voice settings.
      • Siena committed to filing a bug report with Apple.

    Platform Preferences: Zoom vs. Google Meet vs. Appointlet

    Ali and Siena discussed their dissatisfaction with Zoom as a conferencing platform and compared it to Google Meet and Appointlet.

    • Details
      • Ali: Expressed frustration at being forced to use Zoom when it does not suit his personal needs; noted that keyboard shortcuts (e.g., Command-U, Command-Shift-A) failed after dismissing a dialog on entry.
      • Siena: Agreed that Zoom does not provide sufficient value, especially given its add-on pricing model.
      • Siena: Contrasted Zoom with Google Meet, which is included in Google Workspace/Google One packages at no extra cost.
      • Ali: Highlighted that Appointlet integrates seamlessly with existing systems and offers more scheduling flexibility (e.g., custom time slots like 12:15) compared to Google’s native appointment scheduling.
      • Ali: Mentioned an upcoming Friday meeting with Appointlet representatives to negotiate a discount, stating a budget cap of $100 CAD/month.
      • Ali: Noted Appointlet has a monthly option at approximately $67 USD/month, which would fluctuate in CAD (estimated around $15/month CAD equivalent was discussed but acknowledged as variable).
    • Conclusion
      • Both Siena and Ali prefer Google Meet over Zoom for value and integration.
      • Ali will negotiate with Appointlet for a discounted rate capped at $100 CAD/month.
      • Appointlet is considered more feature-rich than Google’s native scheduling tool.

    iOS 27 Recovery Mode: Putting iPhone into Recovery Mode via Mac Finder

    Siena demonstrated how to put an iPhone into recovery mode using a Mac when things go wrong (e.g., after a bad beta update), and how to restore it to factory settings via the Finder.

    • Details
      • Siena: Explained that on Mac, iTunes has been replaced by Finder for iPhone recovery; on Windows, iTunes is still required.
      • Ali: Confirmed iTunes remains necessary on Windows and recommended using a Mac for this type of recovery.
      • Siena: Attempted the recovery mode sequence (initially incorrect: Volume Down → Volume Up → Hold Side Button) multiple times without success.
      • Ali: Assisted in troubleshooting, suggesting disconnecting from screen share, navigating to the iPhone in the Finder sidebar, and keeping the VoiceOver cursor on the device.
      • Siena: Searched Google and found a YouTube video confirming the correct iOS 27 sequence: Volume Up → Volume Down → Hold Side Button.
      • Siena: Successfully triggered the recovery mode error dialog on the Mac: “There is a problem with the iPhone that requires it to be updated or restored.”
      • Siena: Proceeded to click Restore, agreed to terms of service, but encountered a download corruption error (“The software for the iPhone was corrupted during download”), likely caused by the active screen share interfering with the process.
      • Siena: Stopped the screen share and retried; the phone eventually came back online but did not complete the full recovery via Finder during the session.
    • Conclusion
      • The correct iOS 27 recovery mode sequence is: Volume Up (quick press) → Volume Down (quick press) → Hold Side Button until the Mac Finder shows an error dialog.
      • Screen sharing during the recovery process can interfere with the download and cause corruption errors.
      • A Mac with Finder (or a PC with iTunes) is required for this recovery method.
      • The full recovery via Finder was not completed during the session due to technical difficulties.

    Factory Reset Directly from iPhone Settings

    After the Finder recovery attempt encountered issues, Siena demonstrated how to perform a factory reset directly from the iPhone without needing a computer.

    • Details
      • Siena: Navigated to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.
      • Siena: Noted that the phone backs up to iCloud before erasing, and that Find My / Activation Lock requires the Apple ID password to proceed.
      • Siena: Entered the iPhone passcode, then the Apple ID password (required Face ID verification as well).
      • Siena: Confirmed the reset was initiated and the phone began the erase process.
      • Ali: Noted that this simpler method (Settings-based reset) could have been used from the start, even with the beta installed.
    • Conclusion
      • A factory reset can be performed directly from Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings without a computer.
      • The process requires the iPhone passcode, Apple ID password, and potentially Face ID verification.
      • The phone backs up to iCloud automatically before erasing if iCloud Backup is enabled.

    iCloud Backup Setup and Best Practices

    Liz asked how to set up automatic iCloud backups, prompting a discussion on backup frequency, settings, and cellular data usage.

    • Details
      • Siena: Demonstrated navigating to Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → iCloud Backup to enable automatic backups.
      • Siena: Explained that with automatic backup enabled, the phone backs up daily when plugged in.
      • Liz’s iPhone: Asked whether backups consume a large amount of cellular data.
      • Siena: Noted that with a large data plan (e.g., 50 GB/month) it may be acceptable, but users with limited data (1–2 GB) should disable cellular backup.
      • Ali: Strongly recommended disabling the “Backup over Cellular” toggle and performing backups over Wi-Fi only, regardless of data plan size, to avoid unexpected overages and connection issues.
      • Ali: Confirmed there is a “Backup over Cellular” switch in Settings → iCloud → iCloud Backup that controls this behavior.
    • Conclusion
      • Automatic iCloud backup should be enabled via Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → iCloud Backup.
      • The “Backup over Cellular” option should be turned off; backups should be performed over Wi-Fi only.
      • Backups occur daily automatically when the phone is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.

    Face ID: Usability Challenges for Blind and Low-Vision Users

    A discussion arose around Face ID setup and its practical limitations for blind and low-vision users.

    • Details
      • Liz’s iPhone: Shared that an Apple Genius set up Face ID for her, but it never worked reliably at home due to low lighting conditions; she ultimately disabled it.
      • Ali: Explained he does not use Face ID because he cannot reliably angle his face correctly during setup, as he lacks visual reference for positioning.
      • Siena: Agreed that while VoiceOver does provide verbal guidance (e.g., “turn your head slightly to the left/right”), knowing how to physically execute the correct angle is still challenging without vision.
      • Liz’s iPhone: Noted that Apple Store lighting is exceptionally bright, which is not representative of typical home environments, making Face ID less reliable outside the store.
      • Ali: Recommended using a passcode instead of Face ID for blind and low-vision users.
    • Conclusion
      • Face ID presents significant usability challenges for blind and low-vision users due to difficulties in face positioning and lighting dependency.
      • Using a passcode is the recommended alternative for this user group.

    Technology Learning Philosophy and Adapting to New Tools

    Ali, Siena, and Liz engaged in a broader conversation about lifelong learning, tool adoption, and the tendency to become set in one’s ways with technology.

    • Details
      • Liz’s iPhone: Shared that she sometimes listens to sessions just to pick up technical vocabulary.
      • Ali: Reflected that people are often taught to rely solely on voice assistants, but when those fail, they lack alternative methods.
      • Liz’s iPhone: Confirmed her assistant (Siri/Google Assistant) is often unhelpful for basic queries.
      • Ali: Questioned whether there comes a point where one stops wanting to learn new tools and sticks with what works.
      • Siena: Acknowledged she may be approaching that point but still enjoys exploring new tools; noted that when a preferred tool breaks, learning something new becomes necessary.
      • Ali: Suggested that sticking with a tool and observing how it evolves is also a valid approach.
      • Siena: Mentioned recently using LibreOffice (an open-source office suite) and being pleased with a recent Mac fix in an update.
    • Conclusion
      • Lifelong learning is valuable at any age, as long as one is able.
      • Relying solely on voice assistants is insufficient; users should know alternative methods.
      • It is natural to become comfortable with familiar tools, but adaptability remains important.

    Upcoming Schedule Announcements

    Siena made several announcements regarding upcoming sessions and her planned vacation.

    • Details
      • Siena: Announced a Techstravaganza Extra on Friday covering the Google Meet platform, as participants may encounter it for meetings hosted by others.
      • Siena: Announced that Textravaganza Evenings (Part 2: Setting Up iPhone from Scratch) will be held on Thursday, August 13.
      • Siena: Announced she will be on vacation from approximately August 26 to October 7, spending time with family and potentially visiting Montreal with her mother and sister.
      • Siena: Confirmed that Textravaganza sessions will continue during her absence, hosted by Ali, Macara, Ashlyn, and Lily.
      • Ali: Confirmed that during Siena’s absence, sessions will be conducted on Google Meet (his preferred platform) for the month of September.
      • Siena: Offered one-on-one Google Meet orientation sessions before her vacation for anyone needing assistance with the platform.
      • Siena: Confirmed that upon her return, sessions will revert to Zoom.
    • Conclusion
      • Friday Extra: Google Meet tutorial.
      • Thursday, August 13: Textravaganza Evenings — iPhone Setup from Scratch (Part 2).
      • August 26 – October 7: Siena on vacation; sessions continue on Google Meet hosted by Ali and the team.
      • October: Siena returns; sessions revert to Zoom.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

  • Only 15 Minutes to Go! Techstravaganza Afternoons Workshop for Wednesday, August 5, 2026

    Happy Wednesday Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far!

    This is a friendly heads up that another exciting Techstravaganza Afternoons workshop is scheduled to begin exactly 15 minutes from now! It will begin promptly at 1:00 PM and will run until 3:00 PM! I can’t wait! Please note that the studio is now open, so please come right on in and grab a seat! There’s plenty of seating for all!

    Please be advised that this is an ongoing weekly workshop. All workshops are recorded and posted immediately afterwards for your reference and your listening pleasure. They are also podcasted, so you can follow and listen on your podcasting platform of choice. we recommend that you please join in up to 15 minutes prior to the workshop, in order to ensure that your setup is working correctly. If you are running into any difficulties, i.e. finding the link, joining the workshop, setting up your microphone etc., the Zoom studio will be open 30 minutes prior to start time. please reach out to us up to 15 minutes prior to the start time, in order to allow us the time we need to troubleshoot before the workshop begins. Also, please be advised that the Zoom studio is setup so that everyone is muted upon entry, in order to prevent background noise when coming into the studio.

    Special Announcements!

    Techstravaganza Extra

    We are excited to inform you that coming up this Friday, August 7, 2026, we will be having a Techstravaganza Extra workshop from 7:00 to 9:00 PM eastern. Although we have decided to keep our Techstravaganza sessions on Zoom, we would like to walk you through the use of Google Meet, as we will be temporarily switching our sessions over to Google Meet for the month of September. Please see the second announcement below for more details. Also, please see tomorrow’s newsletter for the contact information you will need in order to join the Techstravaganza Extra workshop.

    September Vacation!

    Please note that I will be absent from Techstravaganza for the entire month of September, as I will be on vacation starting on Wednesday, august 26, returning on October 7, 2026. However, Techstravaganza will continue, as Ali, Macara, Ashlyn and Lily will be holding the fort to ensure that the workshops run smoothly! As such, please note that for the month of September, Techstravaganza will be temporarily moving over to Google meet until my return on October 7. In the meantime, I’m super excited for today’s tutorial, and I hope you will find it useful and enjoy it as well!

    Join the Workshop!

    In order to join in the workshop, please use the conference information below:


    Join Zoom Meeting

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87541152813?pwd=kjXUohW4pxWKcYtiIQiHSd5ynZ6Mga.1

    Meeting ID: 875 4115 2813
    Passcode: 751106

    One tap mobile
    +17789072071,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada +17806660144,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada

    coming Up

    Did you recently purchase a new iPhone or iPad? I’m super excited for this week’s Techstravaganza tutorial, as we will be taking a look at how one can setup an iPhone right out of the box using VoiceOver. It is a common misconception that setting up an iPhone from scratch is not doable without sight and must be done by an individual with site, i.e. a sighted friend or family member, your phone provider or Apple. On today’s workshop, I am here to debunk the myth and walk you through the process.

    If you have any questions or topic suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you all this afternoon!

  • One Hour Reminder! Techstravaganza Afternoons Workshop for Wednesday, August 5, 2026

    Happy Wednesday Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far!

    This is a friendly heads up that another exciting Techstravaganza Afternoons workshop is scheduled to begin in exactly one hour! It will begin promptly at 1:00 PM and will run until 3:00 PM! I can’t wait!

    Please be advised that this is an ongoing weekly workshop. All workshops are recorded and posted immediately afterwards for your reference and your listening pleasure. They are also podcasted, so you can follow and listen on your podcasting platform of choice. we recommend that you please join in up to 15 minutes prior to the workshop, in order to ensure that your setup is working correctly. If you are running into any difficulties, i.e. finding the link, joining the workshop, setting up your microphone etc., the Zoom studio will be open 30 minutes prior to start time. please reach out to us up to 15 minutes prior to the start time, in order to allow us the time we need to troubleshoot before the workshop begins. Also, please be advised that the Zoom studio is setup so that everyone is muted upon entry, in order to prevent background noise when coming into the studio.

    Special Announcements!

    Techstravaganza Extra

    We are excited to inform you that coming up this Friday, August 7, 2026, we will be having a Techstravaganza Extra workshop from 7:00 to 9:00 PM eastern. Although we have decided to keep our Techstravaganza sessions on Zoom, we would like to walk you through the use of Google Meet, as we will be temporarily switching our sessions over to Google Meet for the month of September. Please see the second announcement below for more details. Also, please see tomorrow’s newsletter for the contact information you will need in order to join the Techstravaganza Extra workshop.

    September Vacation!

    Please note that I will be absent from Techstravaganza for the entire month of September, as I will be on vacation starting on Wednesday, august 26, returning on October 7, 2026. However, Techstravaganza will continue, as Ali, Macara, Ashlyn and Lily will be holding the fort to ensure that the workshops run smoothly! As such, please note that for the month of September, Techstravaganza will be temporarily moving over to Google meet until my return on October 7. In the meantime, I’m super excited for today’s tutorial, and I hope you will find it useful and enjoy it as well!

    Join the Workshop!

    In order to join in the workshop, please use the conference information below:


    Join Zoom Meeting

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87541152813?pwd=kjXUohW4pxWKcYtiIQiHSd5ynZ6Mga.1

    Meeting ID: 875 4115 2813
    Passcode: 751106

    One tap mobile
    +17789072071,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada +17806660144,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada

    coming Up

    Did you recently purchase a new iPhone or iPad? I’m super excited for this week’s Techstravaganza tutorial, as we will be taking a look at how one can setup an iPhone right out of the box using VoiceOver. It is a common misconception that setting up an iPhone from scratch is not doable without sight and must be done by an individual with site, i.e. a sighted friend or family member, your phone provider or Apple. On today’s workshop, I am here to debunk the myth and walk you through the process.

    If you have any questions or topic suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you all this afternoon!

  • Techstravaganza Afternoons Reminder for Wednesday, August 5, 2026

    Happy Tuesday Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far!

    This is a friendly heads up that another fun filled Techstravaganza Afternoons workshop is coming up tomorrow (Wednesday, August 5, 2026), from 1;00 to 3;00 PM Eastern!

    Please be advised that this is an ongoing weekly workshop. All workshops are recorded and posted immediately afterwards for your reference and your listening pleasure. They are also podcasted, so you can follow and listen on your podcasting platform of choice. we recommend that you please join in up to 15 minutes prior to the workshop, in order to ensure that your setup is working correctly. If you are running into any difficulties, i.e. finding the link, joining the workshop, setting up your microphone etc., the Zoom studio will be open 30 minutes prior to start time. please reach out to us up to 15 minutes prior to the start time, in order to allow us the time we need to troubleshoot before the workshop begins. Also, please be advised that the Zoom studio is setup so that everyone is muted upon entry, in order to prevent background noise when coming into the studio.

    Join the Workshop!

    In order to join in the workshop, please use the conference information below:


    Join Zoom Meeting

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87541152813?pwd=kjXUohW4pxWKcYtiIQiHSd5ynZ6Mga.1

    Meeting ID: 875 4115 2813
    Passcode: 751106

    One tap mobile
    +17789072071,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada +17806660144,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada

    coming Up

    Did you recently purchase a new iPhone or iPad? I’m super excited for this week’s Techstravaganza tutorial, as we will be taking a look at how one can setup an iPhone right out of the box using VoiceOver. It is a common misconception that setting up an iPhone from scratch is not doable without sight and must be done by an individual with site, i.e. a sighted friend or family member, your phone provider or Apple. On tomorrow’s workshop, we are here to debunk the myth and walk you through the process.

    If you have any questions or topic suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow afternoon!

  • Navigating in The Dock and on The Finder on The Mac, Wednesday, July 29, 2026

    Hello Techstravaganza friends,

    Siena provided a wonderful tutorial of navigating both the Doc and the Finder on the Mac this afternoon! Have a listen at the following link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5RmWYTsj1he2YUmjOOtpvh

    Show Notes

    Mac Finder Tutorial: Navigating the Dock

    Siena demonstrated how to access and navigate the Mac Dock using VoiceOver.

    • Details
      • Siena: Explained that the Dock can be accessed from any application using Control-Option-D (VO-D).
      • Siena: Demonstrated navigating the Dock using VO-Right Arrow and VO-Left Arrow, noting that VoiceOver announces the app name, number of new items, and position (e.g., “Mail, 2 of 42”).
      • Siena: Showed that single or multiple-letter navigation (e.g., typing “C” then “L” for Clock) can be used to jump quickly to a specific Dock item.
      • Siena: Noted that the Finder icon is always first and cannot be moved, and the Trash is always last and cannot be moved or deleted.
      • Siena: Explained that a separator divides applications from folders on the Dock.
      • Siena: Noted that unlike iOS devices (which allow only 5–7 Dock icons), the Mac Dock can hold as many icons as desired; she had 42.
    • Conclusion
      • The Dock is navigable via keyboard shortcuts and letter-based navigation.
      • The Finder and Trash icons have fixed positions on the Dock.

    Mac Finder Tutorial: Removing Apps from the Dock

    Siena demonstrated how to remove applications from the Dock.

    • Details
      • Siena: Navigated to an app (e.g., GarageBand), pressed Control-Option-Shift-M to open the context menu, down-arrowed to the Options submenu, right-arrowed to open it, and pressed Enter on “Remove from Dock.”
      • Siena: Demonstrated removing GarageBand, Brave Browser, VLC, and Riverside Studio from the Dock.
      • Roueida: Asked where removed apps go; Siena clarified they remain in the Applications folder and are not deleted from the Mac.
      • Siena: Noted that pressing Command-Shift-A opens the Applications folder to access removed apps.
    • Conclusion
      • Removing an app from the Dock does not uninstall it; it remains accessible via the Applications folder (Command-Shift-A).

    Mac Finder Tutorial: Adding Apps to the Dock

    Siena demonstrated how to add applications from the Applications folder to the Dock.

    • Details
      • Siena: Navigated to the Applications folder using Command-Shift-A, found the desired app (e.g., Dice World) using multi-letter navigation, and pressed Control-Command-Shift-T to add it to the Dock.
      • Siena: Acknowledged the shortcut is complex (“finger gymnastics”) and introduced Sticky Keys as an alternative — pressing Shift five times to enable Sticky Keys, then pressing each modifier key (Control, Command, Shift, T) one at a time.
      • Ivy Matouk: Asked whether Sticky Keys needed to be configured in Settings; Siena confirmed it is available by default on Mac (pressing Shift five times toggles it), but on iPad/iPhone it must be enabled in Accessibility Settings under Motor > Keyboard.
      • Ivy Matouk: Asked how to turn Sticky Keys off; Siena confirmed pressing Shift five times again toggles it off.
      • Roueida: Suggested a more ergonomic approach — holding Command and Control with the right hand, and pressing Shift and T with the left hand — which Siena found more comfortable and adopted.
      • Ivy Matouk: Noted that sighted users simply drag apps to the Dock with a mouse; Siena confirmed this and noted the keyboard shortcut is the VoiceOver-accessible equivalent.
      • Ivy Matouk: Asked about the difference between adding to the Dock versus the Desktop; Siena explained it is a matter of personal preference and that the Desktop is better suited for temporary files.
    • Conclusion
      • The shortcut to add an app to the Dock is Control-Command-Shift-T.
      • Sticky Keys (toggled by pressing Shift five times) simplifies complex multi-key shortcuts.
      • Roueida’s ergonomic tip: use the right hand for Command and Control, and the left hand for Shift and T.

    Mac Finder Tutorial: Where Is My Ride App

    A brief discussion arose about the “Where Is My Ride” app visible on Siena’s Dock.

    • Details
      • Roueida: Asked what the app was.
      • Siena: Explained it is an adaptive transportation tracking app specific to Hamilton, Ontario, which notifies users when their ride is approaching (up to 30 minutes in advance).
      • Siena: Noted the app was designed for iPhone but runs on her M1 Mac (2020 or later) because Apple Silicon Macs can run some iOS apps.
      • Roueida: Mentioned there may be a similar app for adaptive transport in Quebec and expressed interest in exploring it.
      • Siena: Described the account setup process (passenger number and password) and noted that users can check rides on behalf of friends.
    • Conclusion
      • The app is Hamilton-specific but illustrates the capability of M1 Macs to run select iOS apps.
      • Roueida planned to inquire about a similar service in Quebec.

    Mac Finder Tutorial: Finder Menus and Keyboard Shortcuts

    Siena walked through the Finder menu bar to highlight key keyboard shortcuts.

    • Details
      • Siena: Demonstrated accessing the menu bar with VO-M (Control-Option-M) and navigating menus with arrow keys.
      • Siena: Highlighted shortcuts from the File menu: Command-N (new Finder window), Command-Shift-N (new folder), Command-O (open), Command-W (close window), Command-I (get info), Command-D (duplicate), Command-Delete (move to trash), Command-E (eject external drive).
      • Siena: Highlighted shortcuts from the Edit menu: Command-C (copy), Command-V (paste), Command-Option-V (move/paste and remove from original location), Command-Z (undo), Command-Shift-Z (redo).
      • Siena: Highlighted shortcuts from the View menu: Command-1 (icons), Command-2 (list — recommended for VoiceOver users), Command-3 (columns), Command-4 (gallery).
      • Siena: Highlighted shortcuts from the Go menu: Command-Shift-F (Recents), Command-Shift-O (Documents), Command-Shift-D (Desktop), Command-Option-L (Downloads), Command-Shift-H (Home folder), Command-Shift-C (Computer), Command-Shift-R (AirDrop), Command-Shift-I (iCloud Drive), Command-Shift-A (Applications), Command-Shift-U (Utilities), Command-Up Arrow (enclosing folder).
      • Siena: Recommended using List View (Command-2) for VoiceOver users as it allows simple up/down arrow navigation.
    • Conclusion
      • The Finder menus display all available keyboard shortcuts, making memorization optional.
      • List View is the recommended Finder view for VoiceOver users.

    Mac Finder Tutorial: Copying, Moving, and Pasting Files

    Siena demonstrated how to copy, move, and paste files and folders within the Finder.

    • Details
      • Siena: Demonstrated copying a file using Command-C and pasting a copy to a new location using Command-V.
      • Siena: Demonstrated moving a file (removing it from the original location) using Command-Option-V instead of Command-V.
      • Siena: Showed how to open multiple Finder windows (Command-N) and switch between them using the VoiceOver Window Chooser (Control-Option-F2-F2).
      • Siena: Demonstrated selecting multiple files using Shift-Down Arrow.
      • Siena: Noted that applications cannot be moved out of the Applications folder to the Desktop (the system requires a password and may produce errors); only copies can be made.
      • Siena: Demonstrated undoing actions using Command-Z and confirmed the undo history is accessible via the Edit menu.
      • Siena: Showed how to create a new folder using Command-Shift-N, rename it by typing immediately after creation, and open it with Command-O.
      • Siena: Demonstrated navigating back to a parent folder using Command-Up Arrow.
      • Siena: Demonstrated permanently deleting a file using Command-Option-Delete (bypasses Trash) versus Command-Delete (moves to Trash).
    • Conclusion
      • Command-C / Command-V copies a file; Command-Option-V moves it.
      • Applications should be copied rather than moved from the Applications folder.
      • Command-Shift-N creates a new folder; Command-Up Arrow navigates to the enclosing folder.

    Upcoming Session Announcements

    Siena outlined the schedule for upcoming Techstravaganza sessions.

    • Details
      • Siena: Confirmed that August 5 would feature a tutorial on setting up an iPhone from scratch with VoiceOver.
      • Siena: Announced that August 7 (first Friday of the month, 7–9 PM) would be a Techstravaganza Extra session covering Google Meet, noting that VoiceOver accessibility bugs in Google Meet have been largely resolved.
      • Siena: Clarified that Techstravaganza will remain on Zoom; the Google Meet tutorial is intended to prepare participants in case they are invited to Google Meet sessions.
      • Siena: Noted that Techstravaganza Evenings (formerly Techstravaganza 2.0) takes place on the second Thursday of each month from 7–9 PM.
      • Siena: Reminded participants that all workshops are recorded and available as podcasts.
    • Conclusion
      • August 5: iPhone setup from scratch with VoiceOver.
      • August 7: Google Meet tutorial (Techstravaganza Extra).
      • Techstravaganza Evenings: second Thursday of each month, 7–9 PM.
      • The Mantis Q40 tutorial is postponed to a future date.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

  • Only 15 Minutes to Go! Techstravaganza Afternoons Workshop for Wednesday, July 29, 2026

    Happy Wednesday Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far!

    It’s almost time, Friends! Another fun filled Techstravaganza Afternoons workshop is happening in exactly 15 minutes from now! The workshop will run from 1:00 to 3;00 PM Eastern! Please note that the studio is now open, so come on in and have a seat, there’s plenty of seating for everyone!

    Please be advised that this is an ongoing weekly workshop. All workshops are recorded and posted immediately afterwards for your reference and your listening pleasure. They are also podcasted, so you can follow and listen on your podcasting platform of choice. we recommend that you please join in up to 15 minutes prior to the workshop, in order to ensure that your setup is working correctly. If you are running into any difficulties, i.e. finding the link, joining the workshop, setting up your microphone etc., the Zoom studio will be open 30 minutes prior to start time. please reach out to us up to 15 minutes prior to the start time, in order to allow us the time we need to troubleshoot before the workshop begins. Also, please be advised that the Zoom studio is setup so that everyone is muted upon entry, in order to prevent background noise when coming into the studio.

    Join the Workshop!

    In order to join in the workshop, please use the conference information below:


    Join Zoom Meeting

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87541152813?pwd=kjXUohW4pxWKcYtiIQiHSd5ynZ6Mga.1

    Meeting ID: 875 4115 2813
    Passcode: 751106

    One tap mobile
    +17789072071,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada +17806660144,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada

    coming Up

    On this week’s Techstravaganza, we will explore the Finder on the Mac. We will learn how to navigate through files and folders and create new folders, as well as how to copy, move and paste items from one location/folder to another.

    If you have any questions or topic suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you all shortly!

  • One Hour Reminder! Techstravaganza Afternoons Workshop for Wednesday, July 29, 2026

    Happy Wednesday Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far!

    This is a friendly heads up that another fun filled Techstravaganza Afternoons workshop is coming up in exactly one hour! The workshop will run from 1:00 to 3;00 PM Eastern!

    Please be advised that this is an ongoing weekly workshop. All workshops are recorded and posted immediately afterwards for your reference and your listening pleasure. They are also podcasted, so you can follow and listen on your podcasting platform of choice. we recommend that you please join in up to 15 minutes prior to the workshop, in order to ensure that your setup is working correctly. If you are running into any difficulties, i.e. finding the link, joining the workshop, setting up your microphone etc., the Zoom studio will be open 30 minutes prior to start time. please reach out to us up to 15 minutes prior to the start time, in order to allow us the time we need to troubleshoot before the workshop begins. Also, please be advised that the Zoom studio is setup so that everyone is muted upon entry, in order to prevent background noise when coming into the studio.

    Join the Workshop!

    In order to join in the workshop, please use the conference information below:


    Join Zoom Meeting

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87541152813?pwd=kjXUohW4pxWKcYtiIQiHSd5ynZ6Mga.1

    Meeting ID: 875 4115 2813
    Passcode: 751106

    One tap mobile
    +17789072071,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada +17806660144,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada

    coming Up

    On this week’s Techstravaganza, we will explore the Finder on the Mac. We will learn how to navigate through files and folders and create new folders, as well as how to copy, move and paste items from one location/folder to another.

    If you have any questions or topic suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you all this afternoon!

  • Techstravaganza Afternoons Reminder for Wednesday, July 29, 2026

    Happy Tuesday Techstravaganza Friends,

    I hope you are all having a wonderful week so far!

    This is a friendly heads up that another fun filled Techstravaganza Afternoons workshop is coming up tomorrow (Wednesday, July 29, 2026), from 1;00 to 3;00 PM Eastern!

    Please be advised that this is an ongoing weekly workshop. All workshops are recorded and posted immediately afterwards for your reference and your listening pleasure. They are also podcasted, so you can follow and listen on your podcasting platform of choice. we recommend that you please join in up to 15 minutes prior to the workshop, in order to ensure that your setup is working correctly. If you are running into any difficulties, i.e. finding the link, joining the workshop, setting up your microphone etc., the Zoom studio will be open 30 minutes prior to start time. please reach out to us up to 15 minutes prior to the start time, in order to allow us the time we need to troubleshoot before the workshop begins. Also, please be advised that the Zoom studio is setup so that everyone is muted upon entry, in order to prevent background noise when coming into the studio.

    Join the Workshop!

    In order to join in the workshop, please use the conference information below:


    Join Zoom Meeting

    https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87541152813?pwd=kjXUohW4pxWKcYtiIQiHSd5ynZ6Mga.1

    Meeting ID: 875 4115 2813
    Passcode: 751106

    One tap mobile
    +17789072071,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada +17806660144,,87541152813#,,,,751106# Canada

    coming Up

    On this week’s Techstravaganza, we will explore the Finder on the Mac. We will learn how to navigate through files and folders and create new folders, as well as how to copy, move and paste items from one location/folder to another.

    If you have any questions or topic suggestions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team.

    Contact the team:

    Email: support@techstravaganza.ca

    Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578990010675

    Would you like to join the Techstravaganza Workshops Whatsapp Group? Fill out the form located at the following link: https://techstravaganza.ca/join-the-techstravaganza-workshops-whatsapp-group/

    Follow the Show:

    Tunein: http://tun.in/pxXlj

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    Audible: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/techstravaganza/id1846930800

    iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-techstravaganza-301161434/

    Spotify: https://spotify.link/vVGru9nKBXb

    I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow afternoon!