Librarian Phil's Tech Tips
March 1st
Google's AI Overviews Can Scam You

No matter what your feelings are on AI it is everywhere.  This includes Google who is right up with some of the best AIs, but even with the improvements they are extremely problematic.  I try to encourage everyone to ignore the AI overviews or use something like Start Page, which doesn't include AI overviews.
 
The main reason I tell people this is because I know the overviews have high error rates, but it turns out that these overviews have larger issues.  They can't tell the difference between scams and legitimate support numbers!  This has lead meany people to calling scam companies looking for help.
 
If you want to read the full story check out the Wired article I found.
 
 
Apple May Have The Next Affordable Laptop...

I don't usually recommend Macs to people, not because they aren't good computer, but because of the price.  I find that most people have a budget of $300-$600 when shopping for a laptop and there has never been a Mac that hits that price range.  Well that is going to end soon. 
 
Apple plans on announcing an affordable computer that uses their cellphone processors to save money.  If you are sick of Windows or just need an affordable high quality laptop this one may be for you.  We don't know all of the details yet, but it is expected to have excellent battery life and be plenty powerful for every day tasks.  At that price I am considering picking one up.
 
Until Next Time,
Librarian Phil Schneider
pschneider@gailborden.info
847-608-5226
Gail Borden Public Library District

Main Library - 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL 60120 - 847-742-2411
Rakow Branch - 2751 W. Bowes Rd., Elgin, IL 60124 - 847-531-7271
South Elgin Branch - 127 S. Mclean Blvd., South Elgin, IL 60177 - 847-931-2090
http://www.gailborden.info/
If a title in this list is not available in the format you prefer, please request it online.