TW125: Search Without the Noise, Messaging Mayhem, and Keyboard Maestro Tricks

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 [e-mail], or connect on Mastodon:

• Michael: @[e-mail]
• Damashe: @[e-mail]
• Bot updates: @[e-mail]

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