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  • Why I’m Switching from Google to Apple — A Practical, Gradual, Intentional Shift

    Introduction

    I’ve spent years inside Google’s ecosystem — Pixel phone, Pixel Watch, Nest smart devices, and Chromecast. It’s been solid in many ways, but I’ve hit a wall. Between limited compatibility for work, clunky wearable software, and an evolving need for accessibility, I’ve started making the switch to Apple. Not for hype, but for functionality.

    This move isn’t all at once — I’m replacing devices step by step, as budget and needs allow. But every change so far has felt like a step forward. Here’s why.

    1. Chrome OS Isn’t Supported for Work — macOS Is

    Let’s start with the big one. I need a laptop that’s secure, reliable, and compliant with my company’s IT requirements — and Chrome OS isn’t it. Specifically, it’s not supported by Microsoft Endpoint Manager, which many workplaces use to control and protect devices accessing sensitive data.

    My Chromebook couldn’t do the job. A MacBook (which I plan to buy) can — giving me full access, security, and long-term software support in a way that fits both personal and professional life.

    2. The Pixel Watch Didn’t Work for Me — Especially Because of Fitbit

    I gave the Pixel Watch a chance. But I quickly ran into the Fitbit software, which is required to use many of its features. I found it clunky, non-intuitive, and frustrating — and unfortunately, not optional.

    That experience made me realize how fragmented Google’s ecosystem can feel. I don’t want a wearable that feels like a struggle. The Apple Watch, on the other hand, just works. It’s clean, integrated, and will eventually tie perfectly into my iPhone, MacBook, and even my car.

    3. Tesla Keyless Entry with Apple Watch

    This one’s a surprise win — I drive a Tesla, and with the Apple Watch, I’ll be able to use keyless entry and vehicle control, something not possible with the Pixel Watch.

    That kind of seamless integration matters. It’s not just about flashy features — it’s about not needing to think about them. The Apple Watch simply does what it should.

    4. AirPods as Hearing Aids — Accessibility That Matters

    Another major reason for my switch is accessibility. I’m starting to experience some hearing loss, and Apple’s AirPods Pro are now certified as hearing aids in the UK.

    That’s huge. Not only are they high-quality earbuds, but they can also improve daily life in very real ways — from hearing conversations in noisy rooms to watching TV without subtitles. That kind of innovation has real impact, and it shows Apple’s commitment to people, not just products.

    5. Keeping Some Google Devices — But Only What Works

    I’m not burning everything down. I still use Google Home speakers, mostly for timers, alarms, and basic tasks — and that’s fine. They work for now, and replacing them isn’t a priority.

    This isn’t about ditching Google entirely. It’s about choosing what works best for me. And right now, Apple is clearly doing more of what I need — with less hassle and more future potential.

    6. Avoiding iCloud Fees with My Personal NAS

    One of the common costs that comes with Apple’s ecosystem is iCloud storage. But I’m sidestepping that by using immach — a system hosted on my own NAS (Network Attached Storage) at home.

    It gives me the convenience of cloud access, but with no ongoing fees and full control over my data. I’ll share more about that setup in a separate post, but it’s one of the smartest moves I’ve made so far.

    Final Thoughts: A Thoughtful Switch, Not Just a Trend

    This isn’t a case of “Apple good, Google bad.” I’ve used and appreciated both. But for what I need — a secure laptop, wearable that works, better accessibility, and a platform that ties everything together — Apple is simply the better fit right now.

    The move is gradual. Intentional. And already proving to be worth it.

    📊 Comparison Snapshot: Apple vs Google (My Ecosystem Transition)

    CategoryApple (Current / Planned)Google (Current / Legacy)
    Phone✅ iPhone❌ Pixel (retired)
    Smartwatch⏳ Apple Watch (planned – Tesla key entry, fitness)✅ Pixel Watch – disliked due to Fitbit software
    Laptop⏳ MacBook (planned – for work security & access)❌ Chromebook – unsupported for work
    Earbuds⏳ AirPods Pro (planned – also for hearing support)✅ Pixel Buds
    Streaming Device⏳ Apple TV✅ Chromecast with Google TV
    Voice Assistant✅ Siri (via iPhone & Watch)✅ Google Home (kept for timers & alarms)
    Smart Speaker❌ (might add HomePod mini)✅ Nest Mini / Audio
    Smart Home⏳ HomeKit devices (future-proofing)✅ Nest thermostat, lights, etc.
    Fitness & Health⏳ Apple Fitness+ (via Watch)❌ Fitbit – disliked UI
    Accessibility Support✅ AirPods = UK-certified hearing aids❌ No equivalent
    Work Compatibility✅ macOS = supported by Microsoft Endpoint Manager❌ Chrome OS not supported
    Cloud Storage❌ Avoiding iCloud fees via NAS (immach setup)✅ Google Drive (legacy use)

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  • Ryobi OWS1880 Cordless Weed Sprayer – Another Great Use for My Ryobi Batteries

    If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ 18V system like I am, you’ll know the joy of swapping the same batteries between tools. I’ve got a growing collection at this point — from drills to patio cleaners — and more recently, even my Dyson vacuum thanks to the battery adaptor.

    But here’s something I didn’t expect to love as much as I do: the Ryobi Cordless Weed Sprayer.

    I picked one up to deal with weeds around the garden and driveway. Manual pump sprayers have always been a bit of a pain (literally), especially when you’re doing a big area. This Ryobi sprayer? Game-changer. You just pop in a battery, press a button, and it pressurizes itself. No pumping, no sore arms. It feels like the difference between hand-cranking a car window and pressing a button — once you go cordless, you don’t want to go back.

    It has a 3.5L tank, which is plenty for my needs, and the built-in measuring cup makes it easy to mix up weed killer or whatever else I’m spraying. The spray lance tucks neatly into the handle for one-handed use, and there’s a nice adjustable nozzle that lets you go from fine mist to direct stream depending on the job.

    Battery life is excellent. I use the same 5.0Ah battery that powers my other tools (and my Dyson!), and I’ve yet to run out of juice mid-job. Ryobi says it’ll run up to 12 hours on a full charge with that battery — I haven’t needed quite that long, but I believe it.

    A few quick pros and cons from my experience:

    Pros:

    • Works with all my existing Ryobi ONE+ batteries
    • No pumping required — pressurizes with a button
    • Solid build and thoughtful design
    • Great for small to medium garden spaces
    • Easy to clean and store

    Cons:

    • The hose feels a little stiff at first, but it softens up with use
    • It’s not meant for large-scale or commercial spraying (not a con for me, just worth noting)

    If you’re already in the Ryobi ecosystem, this sprayer is an easy recommendation. And if you’re still using manual sprayers, this might be the nudge you need to upgrade.

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  • Power Up Your Dyson: Using Ryobi Batteries..

    Amazon Link to Ryobi Dyson V7/V8 https://amzn.to/41YYxQQ

    Have you ever been in the middle of cleaning, only for your Dyson V8 Animal to die on you? It’s frustrating. As someone who’s been into Ryobi tools for over a decade, I have plenty of spare batteries—so when I found an adapter that lets me use them with my Dyson, I knew I had to try it. And it works.

    This compact adapter lets you swap out Dyson’s 2.8Ah battery for a Ryobi one in seconds. Installation is super simple—just three screws, and you’re good to go. No complicated setup, no special tools—just remove the Dyson battery, secure the adapter with the screws, and attach your Ryobi battery. That’s it.

    The difference is huge. A standard Dyson V8 battery is 2.8Ah, while Ryobi’s 4Ah and 5Ah batteries offer significantly more capacity. That means longer run times and more consistent power. Instead of waiting for a recharge, I can swap in another fully charged battery and keep going without interruptions.

    For anyone already using Ryobi tools, this adapter just makes sense. It’s reliable, simple to use, and extends the vacuum’s run time significantly. I’ve found it makes cleaning more efficient, letting me cover more ground without stopping.

    One thing to note—this adapter may not be compatible with all Dyson models, so check before buying.

    If you’re interested, you can grab one through my affiliate link. And stay tuned—I’ll be sharing a post soon about all the Ryobi tools I’ve collected over the years!