It’s nearly impossible to impress on children the permanence of things they share online through social media, emails or via text. Once they click “send,” that text message, photo or video is out there, available for sharing, forwarding and re-posting by anyone who gets ahold of it. A recent law passed last month in California is aimed at giving kids a chance to delete their digital mistakes, but there are some pretty big loop holes.
In September 2013, California Governor Jerry Brown signed into law Senate Bill 568 which, among other things, requires that operators of any website or online service remove content posted by a minor (18 and younger) if the minor requests it be removed. Postings that fall under the requirements must be removed from public access but can be maintained on the website’s server. The law will apply to websites housed outside of the state, provided that the minor is a California resident. The law will take effect as of January 1, 2015.
While this sounds promising, SB-568 offers little protection in reality. The web site operator must only remove content posted by the minor themselves, a pivotal distinction. If your child wants to remove something that was posted by someone else, for example a photo their friend (or enemy) snaps of them doing something questionable and then posts online, they’re out of luck. Since many websites already include provisions that allow anyone to delete accounts or content that they themselves have posted, critics question what this law really offers other than legal enforcement to pre-existing privacy practices.
This is another step in California lawmakers’ work to protect minors from the long term repercussions of childhood Internet indiscretions. Last year, California lawmakers passed SB-1349, a law that prevents both public and private post-secondary schools in California from demanding social media usernames or passwords as a condition of enrollment, or from threatening or taking pecuniary actions against students or student organizations that refuse to comply with a request for login information.
However, schools can continue to search out any publicly available data linked to a minor. A school district in Glendale, California recently hired a 3rd party firm, Geo Listening, to monitor student’s public posts on social media. While the disclosed intention is to identify at-risk students, those who may be contemplating suicide or violence toward others, the overlap between data posted to social media and intervention by school officials leaves some to question the extent to which the information gathered may affect their child’s academic future. Other parents welcome the “second pair of eyes” monitoring their children’s online activities.
While it is promising that lawmakers are aware of the ongoing challenges faced by minors with access to the Internet and taking actions to try to offer them some legal protections, the protections are still minimal. While some children are certainly posting questionable things about themselves, the vast majority of things that they would want to remove from the Internet are more likely going to have been posted or shared by others. Once something is made available online, if it’s truly shocking, funny or compromising it’s likely to get shared and re-posted almost instantly, and not always by friends kind enough to listen when little Johnny wizens up and asks them to take it down.
This law offers no protection from cyber bullies who post nasty comments, images or videos about others intentionally, though to be fair that isn’t the intention of the law. The bill’s author, California Senate President pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg says it’s intended to help kids “who often act impetuously with postings of ill-advised pictures or messages before they think through the consequences. They deserve the right to remove this material that could haunt them for years to come,” (http://sd06.senate.ca.gov/news/2013-09-23-governor-signs-steinberg-bill-protecting-minors-privacy-internet).
[pullquote]the world of technology continues to evolve faster than lawmakers can keep up[/pullquote]
Unfortunately, the world of technology continues to evolve faster than lawmakers can keep up. With a generation of kids that learn that anything worth doing should be posting online, and many of whom judge their worth by how may “likes” or “views” their postings generate, what’s a parent to do? I’m glad that California lawmakers are making an effort to help minors reduce the long term ramification of their own childhood indiscretions, but I know that it’s ultimately up to me to teach my children about the consequences and permanence of things posted online.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Chromecast Review
There are bevy of devices on the market aimed to allow you to stream content from the Internet to your TV, most notably Roku and Apple TV set-top boxes. Google has officially entered the fray with their $35 Chromecast device (www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/devices/chromecast), leaving many to ponder how it’s different and whether it can serve their streaming needs.
The Roku (www.roku.com, $50-100 depending on model) and Apple TV (www.apple.com/appletv, $100) are “set-top” boxes that connect to your TV with a cable and connect to the Internet or compatible devices over your home’s WiFi. The initial buzz for Google’s Chromecast is based on its rock bottom price of $35, quick and easy set up, and its small size: the Chromecast is about the size of a USB dongle and plugs directly into any HDMI port. This allows you to quickly stream to a multitude of devices including HDMI-compatible TVs, monitors and projectors.
Once you plug in the Chromecast and it finds your WiFi network, your Smartphone, tablet or computer controls what it plays. There is no remote and content is streamed directly to the Chromecast from any app that supports it (currently Netflix, Hulu Plus, and YouTube) or from the cloud via GooglePlay.
Chromecast also offers the ability to send content from the Chrome browser on your computer to your TV, an intriguing feature since none of the set-top options include an integrated browser. In theory, this means that any content you could watch online such as NBC.com, CBS.com, HBO Go, or webcasts from your favorite websites, could be seamlessly sent to your big screen through Chromecast “mirroring.” Simply pull up the website in a Chrome browser on your computer and send it instantly to your Chromecast.
In practice the Chromecast’s mirroring functionality is a bit buggy, leading to video lags, audio drops and the occasional crash. Video image quality is poor because it’s converted when sent to your Chromecast. Apple’s AirPlay lets you mirror the screen of your iPhone or iPad to your TV using the AppleTV (audio too with supported apps), but you can only see content supported by Apple - a smaller library of file types than that supported by Chrome.
The Chromecast works best with the apps that support it, but they’re woefully limited (only Netflix, Hulu Plus and YouTube) due to its recent entry into the market. AppleTv offers those AND Disney Channels, HBO Go and sports channels (including ESPN, NBA, and MLB.TV). Roku is the clear front runner, offering Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO Go, Amazon Instant Video, Redbox and Blockbuster on Demand, PBS, Fox, SyFy and many more.
The one that will best fit your needs depends largely on the platform of equipment you already own. If your home is filled with iPhones, iPads and Macs, you should splurge on an Apple TV. AirPlay sends content seamlessly from your iOS devices and it’s the only streaming device that lets you watch the media content you have stored in your iTunes without a 3rd party work-around. If you have Android devices and purchase video or music content through the Google Play store, the Chromecast offers the best solution to view or listen to it on your TV or home theater.
The Chromecast also wins for portability. While you do need to connect the device to a USB power source with an additional cable (so you can’t just toss the dongle in your pocket and go), the size and quick set up means the Chromecast will be my go-to travel device, whether I’m headed to a hotel or need to project a presentation at the office. As more app developers build in Chromecast integration, it’s sure to get even more useful.
The Roku (www.roku.com, $50-100 depending on model) and Apple TV (www.apple.com/appletv, $100) are “set-top” boxes that connect to your TV with a cable and connect to the Internet or compatible devices over your home’s WiFi. The initial buzz for Google’s Chromecast is based on its rock bottom price of $35, quick and easy set up, and its small size: the Chromecast is about the size of a USB dongle and plugs directly into any HDMI port. This allows you to quickly stream to a multitude of devices including HDMI-compatible TVs, monitors and projectors.
Once you plug in the Chromecast and it finds your WiFi network, your Smartphone, tablet or computer controls what it plays. There is no remote and content is streamed directly to the Chromecast from any app that supports it (currently Netflix, Hulu Plus, and YouTube) or from the cloud via GooglePlay.
Chromecast also offers the ability to send content from the Chrome browser on your computer to your TV, an intriguing feature since none of the set-top options include an integrated browser. In theory, this means that any content you could watch online such as NBC.com, CBS.com, HBO Go, or webcasts from your favorite websites, could be seamlessly sent to your big screen through Chromecast “mirroring.” Simply pull up the website in a Chrome browser on your computer and send it instantly to your Chromecast.
In practice the Chromecast’s mirroring functionality is a bit buggy, leading to video lags, audio drops and the occasional crash. Video image quality is poor because it’s converted when sent to your Chromecast. Apple’s AirPlay lets you mirror the screen of your iPhone or iPad to your TV using the AppleTV (audio too with supported apps), but you can only see content supported by Apple - a smaller library of file types than that supported by Chrome.
The Chromecast works best with the apps that support it, but they’re woefully limited (only Netflix, Hulu Plus and YouTube) due to its recent entry into the market. AppleTv offers those AND Disney Channels, HBO Go and sports channels (including ESPN, NBA, and MLB.TV). Roku is the clear front runner, offering Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO Go, Amazon Instant Video, Redbox and Blockbuster on Demand, PBS, Fox, SyFy and many more.
The one that will best fit your needs depends largely on the platform of equipment you already own. If your home is filled with iPhones, iPads and Macs, you should splurge on an Apple TV. AirPlay sends content seamlessly from your iOS devices and it’s the only streaming device that lets you watch the media content you have stored in your iTunes without a 3rd party work-around. If you have Android devices and purchase video or music content through the Google Play store, the Chromecast offers the best solution to view or listen to it on your TV or home theater.
The Chromecast also wins for portability. While you do need to connect the device to a USB power source with an additional cable (so you can’t just toss the dongle in your pocket and go), the size and quick set up means the Chromecast will be my go-to travel device, whether I’m headed to a hotel or need to project a presentation at the office. As more app developers build in Chromecast integration, it’s sure to get even more useful.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Chromebook 11 Announced
Google added to its collection of “Chromebooks” yesterday, with their announcement of the HP Chromebook 11. If you haven’t been following the search engine giant’s every move, they’ve already produced four Chromebooks and announced another three, including today’s 11-inch mini-laptop.
The Chromebook 11 is produced by HP, like the HP Pavillion Chromebook and the upcoming Chromebook 14. Available immediately for $279, the device sports a sleek new design and is promised as “the Chromebook for everybody,” although that moniker has been applied to Chromebooks in the past.
The Chromebook 11 comes in five different accent colors: Google Blue, Yellow, Red and plain black. With the exception of black, which has an all-black shell, the chosen colors serve as an accent ring around the keyboard and the rest of the device is white plastic.
The Chromebook 11 actually has an 11.6 inch screen with a resolution of 1366x768px. This puts its screen density at 150dpi, about twice a standard screen and half a high-density screen like the Chromebook Pixel. The high density means that images appear crisper on-screen. Google also claims a viewing angle of 176 degrees, meaning it can be viewed comfortably from awkward angles. Mounted above the screen is a webcam.
Also included on the Chromebook 11 are two USB ports, a combined headphone/microphone jack, 2 gigabytes of RAM and 16 gigabytes of solid-state hard drive space. The solid state hard drive means that the device can store less information, but is not as sensitive to shock and other hazards, avoiding expensive hard drive repair. To supplement the small hard drive, Google includes access to 100 gigabytes of cloud storage via Google Drive for two years. However to access cloud files, the user must have access to the internet.
The Chromebook charges via micro-USB, which has long been used for mobile devices like phone and tablets but not laptops. Google claims this will allow for consolidation of power cords, using one style to charge every device.
The HP Chromebook 11 sells for $279 and is available immediately on Amazon.com, Google Play Store, and Best Buy.
Image from Google
The Chromebook 11 is produced by HP, like the HP Pavillion Chromebook and the upcoming Chromebook 14. Available immediately for $279, the device sports a sleek new design and is promised as “the Chromebook for everybody,” although that moniker has been applied to Chromebooks in the past.
The Chromebook 11 comes in five different accent colors: Google Blue, Yellow, Red and plain black. With the exception of black, which has an all-black shell, the chosen colors serve as an accent ring around the keyboard and the rest of the device is white plastic.
The Chromebook 11 actually has an 11.6 inch screen with a resolution of 1366x768px. This puts its screen density at 150dpi, about twice a standard screen and half a high-density screen like the Chromebook Pixel. The high density means that images appear crisper on-screen. Google also claims a viewing angle of 176 degrees, meaning it can be viewed comfortably from awkward angles. Mounted above the screen is a webcam.
Also included on the Chromebook 11 are two USB ports, a combined headphone/microphone jack, 2 gigabytes of RAM and 16 gigabytes of solid-state hard drive space. The solid state hard drive means that the device can store less information, but is not as sensitive to shock and other hazards, avoiding expensive hard drive repair. To supplement the small hard drive, Google includes access to 100 gigabytes of cloud storage via Google Drive for two years. However to access cloud files, the user must have access to the internet.
The Chromebook charges via micro-USB, which has long been used for mobile devices like phone and tablets but not laptops. Google claims this will allow for consolidation of power cords, using one style to charge every device.
The HP Chromebook 11 sells for $279 and is available immediately on Amazon.com, Google Play Store, and Best Buy.
Image from Google
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Best App Sequels
From Mario Brothers to World of Warcraft, I've tackled my fair share of games in my day. It tickles me that now I can play a game on my hand-held device from anywhere, whether I am early for an appointment or waiting to pick up the kids from school. A few of my favorites have recently released sequels, so I was eager to check them out.
Angry Birds Star Wars 2 ($.99): Angry Birds, published by Rovio, was one of the first games I downloaded on my phone, and our super-nerd family jumped at the chance to play the Star Wars version. One beef I had about the original was the challenge of duplicating a move: I could shoot a bird once and make a perfect shot, but try again and I could never get the trajectory right. Angry Birds Star Wars eliminated this with projected trajectories shown with a dotted line, eliminating most of the guessing and frustration and making for a nicer game play, in my opinion.
Where the first version of ABSW let you play all your favorite characters from Episodes IV, V and VI, ABSW2 revolves around Episodes I, II and III. Jar-Jar Binks is, ironically, one of the most enjoyable characters to play. You can also play as Qui Gon, Obi Won and Yoda; each has their own special moves. There's even an opportunity to "join the Pork Side of the Force" and fire pigs at the birds: definitely a fun twist on previous versions.
This time around the game is compatible with optional “Telepod” toys. Buy a small plastic Chewbacca “pod,” for example, put it up to your mobile device and Chewbacca will appear in game. A cool but potentially costly addition to gameplay. Otherwise, prompts for in-app purchases can be annoying and much of the content is a re-hash from what you've already seen throughout the Angry Birds sequels. Still, if you're a fan of Star Wars and Angry Birds, it's worthwhile.
Plants vs. Zombies 2 (Free): I played Plants vs. Zombies a few years ago on the X-Box 360 and was completely addicted, so I was eager to check out the sequel. Currently only available for iOS, the Android version is due out soon. It's challenging to see the whole field of play on an iPhone so if you have an iPad opt for the tablet version.
The object of the game is the same as the original: protect your space against swaths of attacking zombies by planting defensive and offensive plants in front of them. PopCap gets it right again with the sequel, with new plants and new challenges. You begin defending your home in the suburbs, but you're quickly whisked off to Ancient Egypt, Pirate Seas and the Wild West themes. The zombie onslaught is slow, but you can get overwhelmed quickly, and that's definitely part of the fun and intensity of the game. Can you kill them all before they eat their way through? Spend your earned coins on new powers to take down lots of zombies at once, or in-app purchase some crazy-fun plants and abilities. You don't need to spend cash if you play your earned-coins smartly. All-in-all, a great sequel to a great game.
Where's My Water? 2 (Free): If you missed “Where's My Water?” you really should check it out. Published by Disney Mobile (read: safe for the younger crowd), Water follows the mis-adventures of a loveable alligator named Swampy who just wants to take a shower. Your goal? Clear a path through the dirt from a big pool of water to the end of his pipe so he can achieve his shower-bliss. You're challenged with obstacles along the way like walls that block your path, sections of moss that suck away your water and giant chasms where water is simply lost. Get as much water to Swampy as you can to win, and try to collect all the rubber duckies along the way for extra points.
The sequel offers over 100 new challenges and the same puzzle-style gameplay of the original. I was excited to try it, but I found myself quickly exasperated with the game model. The "free to play" mode gets you through the first few levels, but then you're required to wait before you can play again, or pay a $0.99 fee to "refill your energy," and the wait times can be as long as an hour. My recommendation? Download the original if you haven't played it already, and if you can't get enough of Swampy play “Where's My Water? 2” with plenty of patience.
Angry Birds Star Wars 2 ($.99): Angry Birds, published by Rovio, was one of the first games I downloaded on my phone, and our super-nerd family jumped at the chance to play the Star Wars version. One beef I had about the original was the challenge of duplicating a move: I could shoot a bird once and make a perfect shot, but try again and I could never get the trajectory right. Angry Birds Star Wars eliminated this with projected trajectories shown with a dotted line, eliminating most of the guessing and frustration and making for a nicer game play, in my opinion.
Where the first version of ABSW let you play all your favorite characters from Episodes IV, V and VI, ABSW2 revolves around Episodes I, II and III. Jar-Jar Binks is, ironically, one of the most enjoyable characters to play. You can also play as Qui Gon, Obi Won and Yoda; each has their own special moves. There's even an opportunity to "join the Pork Side of the Force" and fire pigs at the birds: definitely a fun twist on previous versions.
This time around the game is compatible with optional “Telepod” toys. Buy a small plastic Chewbacca “pod,” for example, put it up to your mobile device and Chewbacca will appear in game. A cool but potentially costly addition to gameplay. Otherwise, prompts for in-app purchases can be annoying and much of the content is a re-hash from what you've already seen throughout the Angry Birds sequels. Still, if you're a fan of Star Wars and Angry Birds, it's worthwhile.
Plants vs. Zombies 2 (Free): I played Plants vs. Zombies a few years ago on the X-Box 360 and was completely addicted, so I was eager to check out the sequel. Currently only available for iOS, the Android version is due out soon. It's challenging to see the whole field of play on an iPhone so if you have an iPad opt for the tablet version.
The object of the game is the same as the original: protect your space against swaths of attacking zombies by planting defensive and offensive plants in front of them. PopCap gets it right again with the sequel, with new plants and new challenges. You begin defending your home in the suburbs, but you're quickly whisked off to Ancient Egypt, Pirate Seas and the Wild West themes. The zombie onslaught is slow, but you can get overwhelmed quickly, and that's definitely part of the fun and intensity of the game. Can you kill them all before they eat their way through? Spend your earned coins on new powers to take down lots of zombies at once, or in-app purchase some crazy-fun plants and abilities. You don't need to spend cash if you play your earned-coins smartly. All-in-all, a great sequel to a great game.
Where's My Water? 2 (Free): If you missed “Where's My Water?” you really should check it out. Published by Disney Mobile (read: safe for the younger crowd), Water follows the mis-adventures of a loveable alligator named Swampy who just wants to take a shower. Your goal? Clear a path through the dirt from a big pool of water to the end of his pipe so he can achieve his shower-bliss. You're challenged with obstacles along the way like walls that block your path, sections of moss that suck away your water and giant chasms where water is simply lost. Get as much water to Swampy as you can to win, and try to collect all the rubber duckies along the way for extra points.
The sequel offers over 100 new challenges and the same puzzle-style gameplay of the original. I was excited to try it, but I found myself quickly exasperated with the game model. The "free to play" mode gets you through the first few levels, but then you're required to wait before you can play again, or pay a $0.99 fee to "refill your energy," and the wait times can be as long as an hour. My recommendation? Download the original if you haven't played it already, and if you can't get enough of Swampy play “Where's My Water? 2” with plenty of patience.
Chromec
There are bevy of devices on the market aimed to allow you to stream content from the Internet to your TV, most notably Roku and Apple TV set-top boxes. Google has officially entered the fray with their $35 Chromecast device (www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/devices/chromecast), leaving many to ponder how it’s different and whether it can serve their streaming needs.
The Roku (www.roku.com, $50-100 depending on model) and Apple TV (www.apple.com/appletv, $100) are “set-top” boxes that connect to your TV with a cable and connect to the Internet or compatible devices over your home’s WiFi. The initial buzz for Google’s Chromecast is based on its rock bottom price of $35, quick and easy set up, and its small size: the Chromecast is about the size of a USB dongle and plugs directly into any HDMI port. This allows you to quickly stream to a multitude of devices including HDMI-compatible TVs, monitors and projectors.
Once you plug in the Chromecast and it finds your WiFi network, your Smartphone, tablet or computer controls what it plays. There is no remote and content is streamed directly to the Chromecast from any app that supports it (currently Netflix, Hulu Plus, and YouTube) or from the cloud via GooglePlay.
Chromecast also offers the ability to send content from the Chrome browser on your computer to your TV, an intriguing feature since none of the set-top options include an integrated browser. In theory, this means that any content you could watch online such as NBC.com, CBS.com, HBO Go, or webcasts from your favorite websites, could be seamlessly sent to your big screen through Chromecast “mirroring.” Simply pull up the website in a Chrome browser on your computer and send it instantly to your Chromecast.
In practice the Chromecast’s mirroring functionality is a bit buggy, leading to video lags, audio drops and the occasional crash. Video image quality is poor because it’s converted when sent to your Chromecast. Apple’s AirPlay lets you mirror the screen of your iPhone or iPad to your TV using the AppleTV (audio too with supported apps), but you can only see content supported by Apple - a smaller library of file types than that supported by Chrome.
The Chromecast works best with the apps that support it, but they’re woefully limited (only Netflix, Hulu Plus and YouTube) due to its recent entry into the market. AppleTv offers those AND Disney Channels, HBO Go and sports channels (including ESPN, NBA, and MLB.TV). Roku is the clear front runner, offering Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO Go, Amazon Instant Video, Redbox and Blockbuster on Demand, PBS, Fox, SyFy and many more.
The one that will best fit your needs depends largely on the platform of equipment you already own. If your home is filled with iPhones, iPads and Macs, you should splurge on an Apple TV. AirPlay sends content seamlessly from your iOS devices and it’s the only streaming device that lets you watch the media content you have stored in your iTunes without a 3rd party work-around. If you have Android devices and purchase video or music content through the Google Play store, the Chromecast offers the best solution to view or listen to it on your TV or home theater.
The Chromecast also wins for portability. While you do need to connect the device to a USB power source with an additional cable (so you can’t just toss the dongle in your pocket and go), the size and quick set up means the Chromecast will be my go-to travel device, whether I’m headed to a hotel or need to project a presentation at the office. As more app developers build in Chromecast integration, it’s sure to get even more useful.
The Roku (www.roku.com, $50-100 depending on model) and Apple TV (www.apple.com/appletv, $100) are “set-top” boxes that connect to your TV with a cable and connect to the Internet or compatible devices over your home’s WiFi. The initial buzz for Google’s Chromecast is based on its rock bottom price of $35, quick and easy set up, and its small size: the Chromecast is about the size of a USB dongle and plugs directly into any HDMI port. This allows you to quickly stream to a multitude of devices including HDMI-compatible TVs, monitors and projectors.
Once you plug in the Chromecast and it finds your WiFi network, your Smartphone, tablet or computer controls what it plays. There is no remote and content is streamed directly to the Chromecast from any app that supports it (currently Netflix, Hulu Plus, and YouTube) or from the cloud via GooglePlay.
Chromecast also offers the ability to send content from the Chrome browser on your computer to your TV, an intriguing feature since none of the set-top options include an integrated browser. In theory, this means that any content you could watch online such as NBC.com, CBS.com, HBO Go, or webcasts from your favorite websites, could be seamlessly sent to your big screen through Chromecast “mirroring.” Simply pull up the website in a Chrome browser on your computer and send it instantly to your Chromecast.
In practice the Chromecast’s mirroring functionality is a bit buggy, leading to video lags, audio drops and the occasional crash. Video image quality is poor because it’s converted when sent to your Chromecast. Apple’s AirPlay lets you mirror the screen of your iPhone or iPad to your TV using the AppleTV (audio too with supported apps), but you can only see content supported by Apple - a smaller library of file types than that supported by Chrome.
The Chromecast works best with the apps that support it, but they’re woefully limited (only Netflix, Hulu Plus and YouTube) due to its recent entry into the market. AppleTv offers those AND Disney Channels, HBO Go and sports channels (including ESPN, NBA, and MLB.TV). Roku is the clear front runner, offering Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO Go, Amazon Instant Video, Redbox and Blockbuster on Demand, PBS, Fox, SyFy and many more.
The one that will best fit your needs depends largely on the platform of equipment you already own. If your home is filled with iPhones, iPads and Macs, you should splurge on an Apple TV. AirPlay sends content seamlessly from your iOS devices and it’s the only streaming device that lets you watch the media content you have stored in your iTunes without a 3rd party work-around. If you have Android devices and purchase video or music content through the Google Play store, the Chromecast offers the best solution to view or listen to it on your TV or home theater.
The Chromecast also wins for portability. While you do need to connect the device to a USB power source with an additional cable (so you can’t just toss the dongle in your pocket and go), the size and quick set up means the Chromecast will be my go-to travel device, whether I’m headed to a hotel or need to project a presentation at the office. As more app developers build in Chromecast integration, it’s sure to get even more useful.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
iOS 7 Reviewed
Last week Apple released iOS 7, an update that CEO Tim Cook called the biggest change to the platform since the iPhone was introduced. Available for free for every iPhone after the iPhone 4, the latest iPod Touch, the iPad 2 and later versions, and the iPad mini, millions will be seeing iOS 7 in the coming weeks. Here’s what you can expect.
The most dramatic change is visual: everything looks different. Icons for core functions like Photos, Settings and Newstand have new images, there’s a new palette of colors and everything looks brighter. Icons appear flat while visually layered over the background to give the illusion of floating over the wallpaper image. As you move your device, the icons float slightly to match your movement (Apple calls this the “parallax effect”), making it look like the wallpaper is moving.
Many love the new look, while others complain that it seems cartoonish and overly bright. If you hate it, you can update your background image to one that’s more sedate and reduce the brightness of your screen via Settings – Wallpapers & Brightness. You can turn off the parallax effect by going to Settings – General – Accessibility – Reduce Motion.
You’ll be using finger swipes more than ever before. While the Notifications menu is still launched by swiping down from the very top of the screen, if you place your finger lower on any icon screen (not from within an application) and swipe down you’ll now launch the search function (known as Spotlight). This was previously accessed by swiping left to right on your home screen.
Swipe up from the bottom of your screen at any time to launch another new feature, Control Center. This semi-translucent menu gives you quick access to Airplane Mode, WiFi, Bluetooth, brightness and locking the screen’s orientation. You can also control your audio player (to pause or restart music and change volume, for example) and quickly access the flashlight, alarm, calculator and camera. All that functionality crammed into one menu makes it a bit cluttered, and you can’t customize it to choose the features that you want quick access to, but it’s an improvement over having to launch Settings to modify these commonly accessed functions.
Double click the home button to view open apps, as usual, but instead of seeing just a bar of icons at the bottom of the screen you’ll now see a preview image of each app. Swipe left or right to find the app you want or swipe up on a preview image to close the app.
Apple has added the option to have apps automatically install updates (previous versions of iOS require that you launch the App Store and manually install updates). You can control which apps you allow to auto-update. Apps can also refresh content when they’re not running so that you don’t have to wait for info to update upon launching the application (this can be turned off via Settings – General – Background App Refresh).
The camera now includes integrating filters that offer tints and image customization effects that you previously needed to use a third party app to get. Photo organization has also been overhauled, now grouping photos by date and location.
Siri can control more functions than before. Change settings like Bluetooth or brightness, play voicemail or have your latest text message read to you, though integration with 3rd party apps is still lacking. You can even change Siri’s voice.
All these new animations, movement and apps that can update themselves independently comes at a cost: many have noted that battery life seems remarkably diminished. Some 3rd party hardware like non-Apple chargers, Bluetooth keyboards and printers may not work as smoothly until the manufacturers release driver updates for iOS 7.
The most dramatic change is visual: everything looks different. Icons for core functions like Photos, Settings and Newstand have new images, there’s a new palette of colors and everything looks brighter. Icons appear flat while visually layered over the background to give the illusion of floating over the wallpaper image. As you move your device, the icons float slightly to match your movement (Apple calls this the “parallax effect”), making it look like the wallpaper is moving.
Many love the new look, while others complain that it seems cartoonish and overly bright. If you hate it, you can update your background image to one that’s more sedate and reduce the brightness of your screen via Settings – Wallpapers & Brightness. You can turn off the parallax effect by going to Settings – General – Accessibility – Reduce Motion.
You’ll be using finger swipes more than ever before. While the Notifications menu is still launched by swiping down from the very top of the screen, if you place your finger lower on any icon screen (not from within an application) and swipe down you’ll now launch the search function (known as Spotlight). This was previously accessed by swiping left to right on your home screen.
Swipe up from the bottom of your screen at any time to launch another new feature, Control Center. This semi-translucent menu gives you quick access to Airplane Mode, WiFi, Bluetooth, brightness and locking the screen’s orientation. You can also control your audio player (to pause or restart music and change volume, for example) and quickly access the flashlight, alarm, calculator and camera. All that functionality crammed into one menu makes it a bit cluttered, and you can’t customize it to choose the features that you want quick access to, but it’s an improvement over having to launch Settings to modify these commonly accessed functions.
Double click the home button to view open apps, as usual, but instead of seeing just a bar of icons at the bottom of the screen you’ll now see a preview image of each app. Swipe left or right to find the app you want or swipe up on a preview image to close the app.
Apple has added the option to have apps automatically install updates (previous versions of iOS require that you launch the App Store and manually install updates). You can control which apps you allow to auto-update. Apps can also refresh content when they’re not running so that you don’t have to wait for info to update upon launching the application (this can be turned off via Settings – General – Background App Refresh).
The camera now includes integrating filters that offer tints and image customization effects that you previously needed to use a third party app to get. Photo organization has also been overhauled, now grouping photos by date and location.
Siri can control more functions than before. Change settings like Bluetooth or brightness, play voicemail or have your latest text message read to you, though integration with 3rd party apps is still lacking. You can even change Siri’s voice.
All these new animations, movement and apps that can update themselves independently comes at a cost: many have noted that battery life seems remarkably diminished. Some 3rd party hardware like non-Apple chargers, Bluetooth keyboards and printers may not work as smoothly until the manufacturers release driver updates for iOS 7.
Clean up Your Email
I established my Yahoo email account many years ago. In those days, email was something to look forward to, usually a nice correspondence with a friend or family member. Boy have times changed. My account now receives upwards of 500 spam messages weekly, and most of the messages I receive are certainly not from family and friends, which is what used to make reading email fun. Can we get back to the way it used to be? Probably not, but we can "get to the good stuff" quicker with a few tweaks to the system.
Create and use a "junk mail" account. That one time I used my email address for something and didn't UN-tick the box next to "receive special offers" was the point of no return. My Yahoo account has become my catch-all “junk mail” account. I give out this email address to every Tom or Harry website that requires me to enter an email address to use their site. This way if I am signed up for a "member newsletter," or if the company wants to send me their "Internet-only special deals," they all go to one place. I then created a pristine special email address that only the important people in my life know, and I don't give it out to anyone else. In this way, I have a personal email address that is junk-free. Ahhhh.
Use disposable addresses. If you need a quick email address and you don't care about getting a response or keeping a record of correspondence, Mailinator (www.mailinator.com) is your answer. It's a public mail service, meaning there is zero privacy, but who cares about that when we're talking about spam, right? Simply create any email name you like and attach it to @mailinator.com. Any mail sent to that email address is publically-accessible on Mailinator's site, so you can view it if you like and forward it to your "real" email address if it turns out to be important. No passwords or sign-up required. A few things to note: all mail is deleted within a few hours so if there’s a chance you’ll need to view a reply message, you probably shouldn't use Malinator. Also, all attachments are removed from incoming mail. Good for stripping viruses, but lousy if someone sends you something important.
Use automatic filtering and sort incoming messages quickly. Most email programs have options for automated message filtering. Sort specific senders into special folders you set up, or color code them within your inbox so important threads grab your attention faster. Try sorting important contacts into an “Act Now” folder and have subscriptions or coupon offers sort to category folders you create like “shopping,” “school news,” or “recipes.” I’ve got mine set up to automatically move mail from certain senders right to the trash. The options are really endless. Thunderbird (www.mozilla.org/en-US/thunderbird/) is a free email application that can help you sort out several email mailboxes in one easy location. Have Thunderbird sync all your email addresses so that all your mail is in one place, and then use its advanced sorting features to consolidate and organize all your messages so you only have to login once to see everything, or at least everything you want to see.
Cut down on clutter. Once you’ve reviewed an email, make sure that you either sort it into a folder or delete it. If you don't use your Inbox as your storage area it won’t get so crowded and overwhelming. Don't forget to clean out your folders periodically too. Use the view options to sort messages by date and/or sender to purge quickly. You probably don't need to save that email you got from your sister in 2009, or the purchase confirm for the toaster that you tossed out last spring. Turn off social media notifications. Sign up for Facebook and Twitter and suddenly you're being spammed by them too. Yikes! Shut it down by going into the settings for each one and turning off email notifications for everything you possibly can. You really don't need to be notified within the application that you've got a new message and then receive an email that you've got a new message. Wow, that's a lot of notification!
Create and use a "junk mail" account. That one time I used my email address for something and didn't UN-tick the box next to "receive special offers" was the point of no return. My Yahoo account has become my catch-all “junk mail” account. I give out this email address to every Tom or Harry website that requires me to enter an email address to use their site. This way if I am signed up for a "member newsletter," or if the company wants to send me their "Internet-only special deals," they all go to one place. I then created a pristine special email address that only the important people in my life know, and I don't give it out to anyone else. In this way, I have a personal email address that is junk-free. Ahhhh.
Use disposable addresses. If you need a quick email address and you don't care about getting a response or keeping a record of correspondence, Mailinator (www.mailinator.com) is your answer. It's a public mail service, meaning there is zero privacy, but who cares about that when we're talking about spam, right? Simply create any email name you like and attach it to @mailinator.com. Any mail sent to that email address is publically-accessible on Mailinator's site, so you can view it if you like and forward it to your "real" email address if it turns out to be important. No passwords or sign-up required. A few things to note: all mail is deleted within a few hours so if there’s a chance you’ll need to view a reply message, you probably shouldn't use Malinator. Also, all attachments are removed from incoming mail. Good for stripping viruses, but lousy if someone sends you something important.
Use automatic filtering and sort incoming messages quickly. Most email programs have options for automated message filtering. Sort specific senders into special folders you set up, or color code them within your inbox so important threads grab your attention faster. Try sorting important contacts into an “Act Now” folder and have subscriptions or coupon offers sort to category folders you create like “shopping,” “school news,” or “recipes.” I’ve got mine set up to automatically move mail from certain senders right to the trash. The options are really endless. Thunderbird (www.mozilla.org/en-US/thunderbird/) is a free email application that can help you sort out several email mailboxes in one easy location. Have Thunderbird sync all your email addresses so that all your mail is in one place, and then use its advanced sorting features to consolidate and organize all your messages so you only have to login once to see everything, or at least everything you want to see.
Cut down on clutter. Once you’ve reviewed an email, make sure that you either sort it into a folder or delete it. If you don't use your Inbox as your storage area it won’t get so crowded and overwhelming. Don't forget to clean out your folders periodically too. Use the view options to sort messages by date and/or sender to purge quickly. You probably don't need to save that email you got from your sister in 2009, or the purchase confirm for the toaster that you tossed out last spring. Turn off social media notifications. Sign up for Facebook and Twitter and suddenly you're being spammed by them too. Yikes! Shut it down by going into the settings for each one and turning off email notifications for everything you possibly can. You really don't need to be notified within the application that you've got a new message and then receive an email that you've got a new message. Wow, that's a lot of notification!
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Clean up Your Email
I established my Yahoo email account many years ago. In those days, email was something to look forward to, usually a nice correspondence with a friend or family member. Boy have times changed. My account now receives upwards of 500 spam messages weekly, and most of the messages I receive are certainly not from family and friends, which is what used to make reading email fun. Can we get back to the way it used to be? Probably not, but we can "get to the good stuff" quicker with a few tweaks to the system.
Create and use a "junk mail" account. That one time I used my email address for something and didn't UN-tick the box next to "receive special offers" was the point of no return. My Yahoo account has become my catch-all “junk mail” account. I give out this email address to every Tom or Harry website that requires me to enter an email address to use their site. This way if I am signed up for a "member newsletter," or if the company wants to send me their "Internet-only special deals," they all go to one place. I then created a pristine special email address that only the important people in my life know, and I don't give it out to anyone else. In this way, I have a personal email address that is junk-free. Ahhhh.
Use disposable addresses. If you need a quick email address and you don't care about getting a response or keeping a record of correspondence, Mailinator (www.mailinator.com) is your answer. It's a public mail service, meaning there is zero privacy, but who cares about that when we're talking about spam, right? Simply create any email name you like and attach it to @mailinator.com. Any mail sent to that email address is publically-accessible on Mailinator's site, so you can view it if you like and forward it to your "real" email address if it turns out to be important. No passwords or sign-up required. A few things to note: all mail is deleted within a few hours so if there’s a chance you’ll need to view a reply message, you probably shouldn't use Malinator. Also, all attachments are removed from incoming mail. Good for stripping viruses, but lousy if someone sends you something important.
Use automatic filtering and sort incoming messages quickly. Most email programs have options for automated message filtering. Sort specific senders into special folders you set up, or color code them within your inbox so important threads grab your attention faster. Try sorting important contacts into an “Act Now” folder and have subscriptions or coupon offers sort to category folders you create like “shopping,” “school news,” or “recipes.” I’ve got mine set up to automatically move mail from certain senders right to the trash. The options are really endless. Thunderbird (www.mozilla.org/en-US/thunderbird/) is a free email application that can help you sort out several email mailboxes in one easy location. Have Thunderbird sync all your email addresses so that all your mail is in one place, and then use its advanced sorting features to consolidate and organize all your messages so you only have to login once to see everything, or at least everything you want to see.
Cut down on clutter. Once you’ve reviewed an email, make sure that you either sort it into a folder or delete it. If you don't use your Inbox as your storage area it won’t get so crowded and overwhelming. Don't forget to clean out your folders periodically too. Use the view options to sort messages by date and/or sender to purge quickly. You probably don't need to save that email you got from your sister in 2009, or the purchase confirm for the toaster that you tossed out last spring. Turn off social media notifications. Sign up for Facebook and Twitter and suddenly you're being spammed by them too. Yikes! Shut it down by going into the settings for each one and turning off email notifications for everything you possibly can. You really don't need to be notified within the application that you've got a new message and then receive an email that you've got a new message. Wow, that's a lot of notification!
Create and use a "junk mail" account. That one time I used my email address for something and didn't UN-tick the box next to "receive special offers" was the point of no return. My Yahoo account has become my catch-all “junk mail” account. I give out this email address to every Tom or Harry website that requires me to enter an email address to use their site. This way if I am signed up for a "member newsletter," or if the company wants to send me their "Internet-only special deals," they all go to one place. I then created a pristine special email address that only the important people in my life know, and I don't give it out to anyone else. In this way, I have a personal email address that is junk-free. Ahhhh.
Use disposable addresses. If you need a quick email address and you don't care about getting a response or keeping a record of correspondence, Mailinator (www.mailinator.com) is your answer. It's a public mail service, meaning there is zero privacy, but who cares about that when we're talking about spam, right? Simply create any email name you like and attach it to @mailinator.com. Any mail sent to that email address is publically-accessible on Mailinator's site, so you can view it if you like and forward it to your "real" email address if it turns out to be important. No passwords or sign-up required. A few things to note: all mail is deleted within a few hours so if there’s a chance you’ll need to view a reply message, you probably shouldn't use Malinator. Also, all attachments are removed from incoming mail. Good for stripping viruses, but lousy if someone sends you something important.
Use automatic filtering and sort incoming messages quickly. Most email programs have options for automated message filtering. Sort specific senders into special folders you set up, or color code them within your inbox so important threads grab your attention faster. Try sorting important contacts into an “Act Now” folder and have subscriptions or coupon offers sort to category folders you create like “shopping,” “school news,” or “recipes.” I’ve got mine set up to automatically move mail from certain senders right to the trash. The options are really endless. Thunderbird (www.mozilla.org/en-US/thunderbird/) is a free email application that can help you sort out several email mailboxes in one easy location. Have Thunderbird sync all your email addresses so that all your mail is in one place, and then use its advanced sorting features to consolidate and organize all your messages so you only have to login once to see everything, or at least everything you want to see.
Cut down on clutter. Once you’ve reviewed an email, make sure that you either sort it into a folder or delete it. If you don't use your Inbox as your storage area it won’t get so crowded and overwhelming. Don't forget to clean out your folders periodically too. Use the view options to sort messages by date and/or sender to purge quickly. You probably don't need to save that email you got from your sister in 2009, or the purchase confirm for the toaster that you tossed out last spring. Turn off social media notifications. Sign up for Facebook and Twitter and suddenly you're being spammed by them too. Yikes! Shut it down by going into the settings for each one and turning off email notifications for everything you possibly can. You really don't need to be notified within the application that you've got a new message and then receive an email that you've got a new message. Wow, that's a lot of notification!
Friday, September 27, 2013
New Surface Tablets from Microsoft
When Microsoft first unveiled their new Surface tablets last year, they were received with middling reviews, especially the lower-end Surface RT. Less than a year after the original release, Microsoft has already announced the next generation of Surface tablets. The “RT” designation has been dropped and the new tablets are now the Surface 2 and the Surface Pro 2.
The technical specs for both devices have been significantly upgraded and the performance gap between the two remains about the same as before. However, the real innovation with Microsoft’s next round of tablet wars comes in the accessories:
Users of the original Surface tablets complained of low battery life and limited options for recharging. Microsoft listened very well and in addition to more than doubling the included battery’s life, provided users with three accessories specifically for battery life. The first is the power cover, which Microsoft claims will extend the battery life by up to 10 hours. Microsoft also released a car charger for the device, which pulls more power than a standard USB car charger provides. The third accessory not only plugs the device into the wall, but into just about everything else as well. The docking station plugs into the bottom of the Surface Pro or Surface Pro 2 and connects it to a power outlet and has a display connector, four USB connectors, Ethernet, and audio I/O.
Microsoft also released a number of other “smart covers” for the Surface. The original Touch Cover with a touch-sensitive flat keyboard has been upgraded to be more sensitive and thinner. Users can also perform touch gestures on the keyboard, like panning and zooming. A surprise announcement also came in the form of the remix cover, co-designed by producers Linkin Park. It provides the user with DJ controls for mixing their own music.
Also announced were wireless adapters for the Touch and Type covers, a special Arc Mouse for Surface, and an upgraded kickstand for improved lap and desk viewing. Rumors have been circling for months concerning a “Surface Mini” with a 7.5” screen, although the device did not show its face at Microsoft’s event.
The Surface 2 will retail for $449 and the Surface Pro 2 for $899. Pre-ordering is available now and the tablets will ship on October 22nd. The Surface 2 includes Office 2013 and all Surface tablets come with free international calling via Skype.
The technical specs for both devices have been significantly upgraded and the performance gap between the two remains about the same as before. However, the real innovation with Microsoft’s next round of tablet wars comes in the accessories:
Users of the original Surface tablets complained of low battery life and limited options for recharging. Microsoft listened very well and in addition to more than doubling the included battery’s life, provided users with three accessories specifically for battery life. The first is the power cover, which Microsoft claims will extend the battery life by up to 10 hours. Microsoft also released a car charger for the device, which pulls more power than a standard USB car charger provides. The third accessory not only plugs the device into the wall, but into just about everything else as well. The docking station plugs into the bottom of the Surface Pro or Surface Pro 2 and connects it to a power outlet and has a display connector, four USB connectors, Ethernet, and audio I/O.
Microsoft also released a number of other “smart covers” for the Surface. The original Touch Cover with a touch-sensitive flat keyboard has been upgraded to be more sensitive and thinner. Users can also perform touch gestures on the keyboard, like panning and zooming. A surprise announcement also came in the form of the remix cover, co-designed by producers Linkin Park. It provides the user with DJ controls for mixing their own music.
Also announced were wireless adapters for the Touch and Type covers, a special Arc Mouse for Surface, and an upgraded kickstand for improved lap and desk viewing. Rumors have been circling for months concerning a “Surface Mini” with a 7.5” screen, although the device did not show its face at Microsoft’s event.
The Surface 2 will retail for $449 and the Surface Pro 2 for $899. Pre-ordering is available now and the tablets will ship on October 22nd. The Surface 2 includes Office 2013 and all Surface tablets come with free international calling via Skype.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
The Switch to Windows 8 - Part 3
It’s been almost a month since I made the switch to Windows 8, and my feelings are mixed. Here are some of the things that, so far, I like and others that I’d like to ditch.
Windows 8’s integration with touch screen devices is undeniably cool. Being able to touch to launch an app, slide a program left or right with your finger, pinch to minimize or spread your fingers to zoom, or drag a program down to close it takes some of the frustration out of getting used to the new look and functionality of the OS.
I love the faster boot up time - I’m up and running within seconds of pressing the power button. While it’s no fault of the OS, beware of the load that certain programs can put on your system. I installed Spotify, a music streaming service, and it began starting up automatically every time I booted up my PC. This added at least two minutes of sluggish or unresponsive lag time to my start up time while Spotify loaded and started to run. Luckily, Windows 8’s Task Manager has a “Startup” tab that shows you a list of all programs that auto launch when you boot up your system and their “startup impact” (none, low, medium, or high). I was able to select Spotify in the list, right click and choose “disable” to stop it from starting up automatically and restore my system’s speedy startup time.
I like the look of Metro’s scrolling apps and images - it’s far more exciting than the static desktop page. Unfortunately, I spend most of my time on the Desktop page. This is most likely a function of familiarity, but I’m more annoyed than smitten with the process of jumping between the Metro start screen and the Desktop where I do my work. I still haven’t gotten used to moving between programs in Metro. I find it easier to switch between active applications by clicking the icon in the bottom taskbar (in Desktop) than having to remember just the right way to click and in which corner to access running programs in Metro.
It’s pretty convenient that whenever you are on the Metro Start screen you can just start typing to automatically pull up the search menu in the right side of your screen. This lets you quickly find programs, apps or functions that you may otherwise waste time clicking around to find. For example, typing “task” while on your Start screen will cause the search bar to appear and resultant “Task Manager” icon to pop up on your screen, like magic.
The Windows logo button is linked to a bevy of new functionality. Click it at any time to be returned to the Start Screen; click again to toggle back to the last program you were using. This is surprisingly handy when you’ve navigated into an app that doesn’t have a “_” to minimize or “x” to close in sight. Windows logo key + D lets you toggle back and forth to your Desktop. For a more hot key options, check out Window’s list of new keyboard shortcuts here: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/new-keyboard-shortcuts
I’m not enamored with the inability to easily work within two programs side-by-side in Metro. You can left click an app or program and choose to “Snap left” or “Snap right,” but the program you aren’t actively working in is relegated to a small fraction of your screen that I find relatively unusable.
Next week I’ll explore whether the upcoming Windows 8.1 update will convert me from a Desktop-diehard to the new OS once and for all.
Windows 8’s integration with touch screen devices is undeniably cool. Being able to touch to launch an app, slide a program left or right with your finger, pinch to minimize or spread your fingers to zoom, or drag a program down to close it takes some of the frustration out of getting used to the new look and functionality of the OS.
I love the faster boot up time - I’m up and running within seconds of pressing the power button. While it’s no fault of the OS, beware of the load that certain programs can put on your system. I installed Spotify, a music streaming service, and it began starting up automatically every time I booted up my PC. This added at least two minutes of sluggish or unresponsive lag time to my start up time while Spotify loaded and started to run. Luckily, Windows 8’s Task Manager has a “Startup” tab that shows you a list of all programs that auto launch when you boot up your system and their “startup impact” (none, low, medium, or high). I was able to select Spotify in the list, right click and choose “disable” to stop it from starting up automatically and restore my system’s speedy startup time.
I like the look of Metro’s scrolling apps and images - it’s far more exciting than the static desktop page. Unfortunately, I spend most of my time on the Desktop page. This is most likely a function of familiarity, but I’m more annoyed than smitten with the process of jumping between the Metro start screen and the Desktop where I do my work. I still haven’t gotten used to moving between programs in Metro. I find it easier to switch between active applications by clicking the icon in the bottom taskbar (in Desktop) than having to remember just the right way to click and in which corner to access running programs in Metro.
It’s pretty convenient that whenever you are on the Metro Start screen you can just start typing to automatically pull up the search menu in the right side of your screen. This lets you quickly find programs, apps or functions that you may otherwise waste time clicking around to find. For example, typing “task” while on your Start screen will cause the search bar to appear and resultant “Task Manager” icon to pop up on your screen, like magic.
The Windows logo button is linked to a bevy of new functionality. Click it at any time to be returned to the Start Screen; click again to toggle back to the last program you were using. This is surprisingly handy when you’ve navigated into an app that doesn’t have a “_” to minimize or “x” to close in sight. Windows logo key + D lets you toggle back and forth to your Desktop. For a more hot key options, check out Window’s list of new keyboard shortcuts here: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/new-keyboard-shortcuts
I’m not enamored with the inability to easily work within two programs side-by-side in Metro. You can left click an app or program and choose to “Snap left” or “Snap right,” but the program you aren’t actively working in is relegated to a small fraction of your screen that I find relatively unusable.
Next week I’ll explore whether the upcoming Windows 8.1 update will convert me from a Desktop-diehard to the new OS once and for all.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Apps That Pay You Back
My four year old has a serious case of the “gimmes.” From every toy his friends have to things on the shelf in the store, just about everything elicits a “can I have that?” from his early consumer mouth. This has led to many discussions about how “money doesn’t grow on trees,” and “you can’t get something for nothing.” It turns out that I may have been mistaken about that second part. Armed with a Smartphone and a few free apps, you can earn rewards, gift cards or sometimes even cash for doing things you probably already do. Here’s how you can earn some money for nothing.
Imagine earning reward points from the comfort of your couch, just for watching TV. Simply download Viggle (www.viggle.com, free for iPhone, iPad or Android) and the app will actually listen to your TV and automatically check you into whatever you’re watching. No messing with having to watch content through your phone or tablet; no need to install a special program on your TV or enter codes. You’ll earn points just for watching the shows you already love, or you can play show-related games or watch recommended shows to earn bonus points. Once you’ve amassed a few points, trade them in for gift cards or merchandise in the Viggle Rewards catalog. Choose from brands like Starbucks, Barnes and Noble, or Best Buy.
ShopKick (www.shopkick.com, free for iPhone, iPad or Android) lets you earn points from major retailers like Old Navy, Macys and Target, just for walking into the store. Simply install the app and launch it before you do your shopping. Once inside the store, the app will let you know about sales or special promotions. There’s even a way to earn extra points (they call them “kicks”) by using your phone’s camera to scan specific items throughout the store. It’s like a little in-store treasure hunt. If you do buy something, you can earn even more points. Once you’ve collected enough “kicks,” you can trade them in for gift cards, a coffee from Starbucks, gas for your car, or put your points towards merchandise or travel rewards.
Another popular app to earn points while you shop is CheckPoints (www.checkpoints.com/, free for iPhone, iPad or Android). More locations participate than you’ll find on ShopKick because ShopKick requires that merchants install specific hardware to register app users while CheckPoints does not. When you start your shopping, just launch the app. Nearby participating locations will show on your phone and some locations will give you points for “checking in.” Many rewards are tied to specific products so you’ll need to scan items as you wander the aisles, though some stores are mapped offering you an aisle-by-aisle guide to find products and maximize point accrual. Every time you scan an item, you can play a slot-style game to get more rewards. Trade in points for gift cards.
If you purchase music or buy or rent videos or TV shows through iTunes, consider using iPoints (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ipoints-get-rewards-for-songs/id450082205?mt=8, free for iPhone or iPad) to earn points for your purchases. The price you pay for content is no higher than what you’d pay direct through iTunes, but every dollar you spend through the iPoints interface accrues points that you can trade in for gift cards from merchants like Amazon, Walmart or Target, cash through Paypal or a Visa debit card, or to get paid-apps for free through iTunes.
All reward-earning apps will require that you provide an email address and some personal information – they have to have a way to send you rewards earnings. I’d recommend that you establish an email address specific to your reward app activities. Your address will undoubtedly find its way into the databanks of merchants and vendors looking to take advantage of the information you’ve provided via these apps about your viewing, shopping and spending habits.
Finally, keep in mind that accruing enough points to get a decent gift card will take some time and diligence. For example, walking into a store will earn you 10-50 points through ShopKick, while a $5 Starbucks gift card requires about 1,250 kicks. You’ll earn 170 points for every dollar you spend through iPoints, but a $10 Amazon gift card takes 35,000 points to redeem. On the other hand, if you’re already going to watch TV, go shopping, or buy content through iTunes, why not get something for nothing while you do it?
Imagine earning reward points from the comfort of your couch, just for watching TV. Simply download Viggle (www.viggle.com, free for iPhone, iPad or Android) and the app will actually listen to your TV and automatically check you into whatever you’re watching. No messing with having to watch content through your phone or tablet; no need to install a special program on your TV or enter codes. You’ll earn points just for watching the shows you already love, or you can play show-related games or watch recommended shows to earn bonus points. Once you’ve amassed a few points, trade them in for gift cards or merchandise in the Viggle Rewards catalog. Choose from brands like Starbucks, Barnes and Noble, or Best Buy.
ShopKick (www.shopkick.com, free for iPhone, iPad or Android) lets you earn points from major retailers like Old Navy, Macys and Target, just for walking into the store. Simply install the app and launch it before you do your shopping. Once inside the store, the app will let you know about sales or special promotions. There’s even a way to earn extra points (they call them “kicks”) by using your phone’s camera to scan specific items throughout the store. It’s like a little in-store treasure hunt. If you do buy something, you can earn even more points. Once you’ve collected enough “kicks,” you can trade them in for gift cards, a coffee from Starbucks, gas for your car, or put your points towards merchandise or travel rewards.
Another popular app to earn points while you shop is CheckPoints (www.checkpoints.com/, free for iPhone, iPad or Android). More locations participate than you’ll find on ShopKick because ShopKick requires that merchants install specific hardware to register app users while CheckPoints does not. When you start your shopping, just launch the app. Nearby participating locations will show on your phone and some locations will give you points for “checking in.” Many rewards are tied to specific products so you’ll need to scan items as you wander the aisles, though some stores are mapped offering you an aisle-by-aisle guide to find products and maximize point accrual. Every time you scan an item, you can play a slot-style game to get more rewards. Trade in points for gift cards.
If you purchase music or buy or rent videos or TV shows through iTunes, consider using iPoints (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ipoints-get-rewards-for-songs/id450082205?mt=8, free for iPhone or iPad) to earn points for your purchases. The price you pay for content is no higher than what you’d pay direct through iTunes, but every dollar you spend through the iPoints interface accrues points that you can trade in for gift cards from merchants like Amazon, Walmart or Target, cash through Paypal or a Visa debit card, or to get paid-apps for free through iTunes.
All reward-earning apps will require that you provide an email address and some personal information – they have to have a way to send you rewards earnings. I’d recommend that you establish an email address specific to your reward app activities. Your address will undoubtedly find its way into the databanks of merchants and vendors looking to take advantage of the information you’ve provided via these apps about your viewing, shopping and spending habits.
Finally, keep in mind that accruing enough points to get a decent gift card will take some time and diligence. For example, walking into a store will earn you 10-50 points through ShopKick, while a $5 Starbucks gift card requires about 1,250 kicks. You’ll earn 170 points for every dollar you spend through iPoints, but a $10 Amazon gift card takes 35,000 points to redeem. On the other hand, if you’re already going to watch TV, go shopping, or buy content through iTunes, why not get something for nothing while you do it?
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
The Switch to Windows 8 - Part 2
Last week my foray into Windows 8 began in earnest. I discovered that I like the look of Metro with its apps displayed as “tiles,” though I’m withholding judgment on its user-friendliness. I also learned that I will need to get used to clicking on the corners of the screen to navigate between applications and access the new “Charms” menu. I lamented to loss of the Start key, but just briefly, before I found most of its functions hidden in a lower left corner right-click launched menu. This week I will explore apps, the cornerstone of the new Metro layout.
Upon launching Windows 8, your first tentative minutes exploring the new Metro interface will quickly clue you in to the reliance on apps, programs that appear as tiles on the screen instead of the smaller icons you grew accustomed to in earlier versions of Windows. Some apps scroll constantly updating information like news, weather, or your social media updates, others are just large icons.
You can easily customize the look of your home screen. Drag tiles to different locations on the screen, or right click the tile to launch a menu with options to unpin the application from your start screen, uninstall it entirely, or make the icon larger or smaller.
After a little more than a week using Windows 8, I am underwhelmed with the pre-installed apps. They are, not surprisingly, Microsoft centered and I am a Google-girl. If you use Gmail, Google Calendar and Google Maps like I do, be prepared for the quick realization that there won’t be “an app for that” in Windows 8. Accessing your Google data will have to be done online through your browser, though you can install a Chrome app if you prefer Google’s browser over the default Internet Explorer and there’s a Google Search app. Otherwise, you can pin shortcuts to the applicable Google weblinks to your Metro homepage.
“Travel” looms front and center on my screen – it’s simply a link to Microsoft-owned Bing Travel. Maps takes you to Bing’s mapping program. Default Music and Video apps link you to Microsoft-owned Xbox Music and Video stores to purchase content through the XBox streaming service. Playing video content you already own will likely require you purchase the Windows Media Center application for $9.99 as the integrated Windows Media Player no longer includes MPEG-2 support, a common video format.
The calendar is lacking in features. You can pull data from additional sources like Google Calendar or iCal, but you can’t push data entered via your Windows 8 calendar to these applications. If you use an online calendar, you’ll likely be able to view your schedule in your Windows 8 calendar but not make updates as they won’t sync to your other devices.
The People app lets you view notifications and updates from Facebook and/or Twitter, but clicking to view a profile or your newsfeed will lead to a browser window opening and launching the full application online. I chose to install Facebook+ Lite (http://apps.microsoft.com/windows/en-us/app/f9dbb3ff-a7fe-4251-8e61-39f5ea061836, free) to get a more functional Facebook app, though you could just access it online as you’re probably used to doing.
The included Photos app is for viewing only, similar to opening your “My Photos” folder in previous versions of Windows. If you’re looking to make changes to your photos, CameraStudio+ ($2.99) gives you some of the photo editing features lacking from the default photo management application, such as cropping, resizing, red-eye correction, effects and borders.
Next week I will explore navigation shortcuts and discover once and for all if it’s possible to split-screen multi-task as I once could in my beloved Windows 7.
Upon launching Windows 8, your first tentative minutes exploring the new Metro interface will quickly clue you in to the reliance on apps, programs that appear as tiles on the screen instead of the smaller icons you grew accustomed to in earlier versions of Windows. Some apps scroll constantly updating information like news, weather, or your social media updates, others are just large icons.
You can easily customize the look of your home screen. Drag tiles to different locations on the screen, or right click the tile to launch a menu with options to unpin the application from your start screen, uninstall it entirely, or make the icon larger or smaller.
After a little more than a week using Windows 8, I am underwhelmed with the pre-installed apps. They are, not surprisingly, Microsoft centered and I am a Google-girl. If you use Gmail, Google Calendar and Google Maps like I do, be prepared for the quick realization that there won’t be “an app for that” in Windows 8. Accessing your Google data will have to be done online through your browser, though you can install a Chrome app if you prefer Google’s browser over the default Internet Explorer and there’s a Google Search app. Otherwise, you can pin shortcuts to the applicable Google weblinks to your Metro homepage.
“Travel” looms front and center on my screen – it’s simply a link to Microsoft-owned Bing Travel. Maps takes you to Bing’s mapping program. Default Music and Video apps link you to Microsoft-owned Xbox Music and Video stores to purchase content through the XBox streaming service. Playing video content you already own will likely require you purchase the Windows Media Center application for $9.99 as the integrated Windows Media Player no longer includes MPEG-2 support, a common video format.
The calendar is lacking in features. You can pull data from additional sources like Google Calendar or iCal, but you can’t push data entered via your Windows 8 calendar to these applications. If you use an online calendar, you’ll likely be able to view your schedule in your Windows 8 calendar but not make updates as they won’t sync to your other devices.
The People app lets you view notifications and updates from Facebook and/or Twitter, but clicking to view a profile or your newsfeed will lead to a browser window opening and launching the full application online. I chose to install Facebook+ Lite (http://apps.microsoft.com/windows/en-us/app/f9dbb3ff-a7fe-4251-8e61-39f5ea061836, free) to get a more functional Facebook app, though you could just access it online as you’re probably used to doing.
The included Photos app is for viewing only, similar to opening your “My Photos” folder in previous versions of Windows. If you’re looking to make changes to your photos, CameraStudio+ ($2.99) gives you some of the photo editing features lacking from the default photo management application, such as cropping, resizing, red-eye correction, effects and borders.
Next week I will explore navigation shortcuts and discover once and for all if it’s possible to split-screen multi-task as I once could in my beloved Windows 7.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Find Charity Online
The other day I was sitting in the Starbucks drive-through line. I pulled up to the window to pay and I was informed that the car in front of me had paid my bill. It was surprising how such a simple gesture made my day. There’s no quicker path to a warm fuzzy feeling than giving to others, whether it be money or time. While the Internet gives you the ability to help any cause that touches you, it also makes it confusing to narrow down where your contribution can make the most difference. Luckily there are some great tools available online to help you get started making the world a better place.
When you donate to a charity, you should choose a cause that is near and dear to your heart, but as a smart donor you want to make sure you're putting your money where it will get the best use. Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) is designed to help you navigate the veritable sea of charities out there. They will help you identify ones that are the most reputable, fiscally sound, and give the largest portion of donations to the cause. Search out a charity categories such as "animals," "religion," or "health," or simply type a name of a specific charity you'd like to review into the Charity Search and you're provided with a rating that is based upon their financial health, their accountability and transparency.
If you have a cause you'd like to help someone raise money for, or if you’d like to find a specific person you can help with a donation instead of a charity, GiveForward (www.giveforward.com) is a great resource. Utilizing "crowdfunding," a technique where multiple small donations add up to large funds, GiveForward allows persons in need (or their loved ones) to set up a page that tells their story with a link to donate online. Users fundraise for everything from helping a neighbor rebuild their house after a natural disaster to paying for out-of-pocket medical expenses for a child's cancer treatments. Social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter are utilized to "spread the word," and once the fundraiser is complete, the money is transferred to the recipient’s PayPal account or mailed to them by check. The page you create on the website provides a place where family and friends can visit to read about the fundraising progress, make donations and post well-wishes. GiveForward even offers a personal fundraising coach to help you reach your financial goal. Users should be aware that the website charges a 7% fee for the final transaction - that is a delivery of the lump sum at the end of the fundraiser.
There's a lot of good you can do in your community if you have a couple extra hours on your hands, and in some cases you don't even need to leave your home to do it. Check out Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org). Non-profit organizations utilize the website to post requests for help with certain tasks, and then willing volunteers take up the cause. Use the search function to find a volunteer opportunity close to you, or browse by categories such as "children and youth," "health and medicine" or "environmental." Click on the virtual listings tab to find all sorts of ways you can help remotely with skills you already have, such as tutoring first graders in reading with just a computer and a phone or helping with art projects or web design. Sort by "local opportunities" within the virtual tab to find specific causes in your area.
[pullquote]be proactive in your giving by doing research[/pullquote]
Where ever you end up donating your time or money, Charity Navigator offers these tips for "intelligent giving." Be proactive in your giving by doing your research. If your interest is cancer research, don't just donate to a generic cancer charity but have a targeted goal such as providing cancer screenings for at-risk individuals. Resist the urge to simply send money to the first person who calls you on the phone asking for a donation during a time of crisis. Hang up the phone, research the charity online, and then donate directly with them instead. You'll cut out the middle man and make every dollar you donate count. Lastly, when it comes to philanthropic investments, "spreading the love" to multiple causes is actually not beneficial to any of them. Choose one, or possibly two, that are particularly close to your heart and concentrate your efforts. In this way you can bring about the most substantive change.
When you donate to a charity, you should choose a cause that is near and dear to your heart, but as a smart donor you want to make sure you're putting your money where it will get the best use. Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) is designed to help you navigate the veritable sea of charities out there. They will help you identify ones that are the most reputable, fiscally sound, and give the largest portion of donations to the cause. Search out a charity categories such as "animals," "religion," or "health," or simply type a name of a specific charity you'd like to review into the Charity Search and you're provided with a rating that is based upon their financial health, their accountability and transparency.
If you have a cause you'd like to help someone raise money for, or if you’d like to find a specific person you can help with a donation instead of a charity, GiveForward (www.giveforward.com) is a great resource. Utilizing "crowdfunding," a technique where multiple small donations add up to large funds, GiveForward allows persons in need (or their loved ones) to set up a page that tells their story with a link to donate online. Users fundraise for everything from helping a neighbor rebuild their house after a natural disaster to paying for out-of-pocket medical expenses for a child's cancer treatments. Social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter are utilized to "spread the word," and once the fundraiser is complete, the money is transferred to the recipient’s PayPal account or mailed to them by check. The page you create on the website provides a place where family and friends can visit to read about the fundraising progress, make donations and post well-wishes. GiveForward even offers a personal fundraising coach to help you reach your financial goal. Users should be aware that the website charges a 7% fee for the final transaction - that is a delivery of the lump sum at the end of the fundraiser.
There's a lot of good you can do in your community if you have a couple extra hours on your hands, and in some cases you don't even need to leave your home to do it. Check out Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org). Non-profit organizations utilize the website to post requests for help with certain tasks, and then willing volunteers take up the cause. Use the search function to find a volunteer opportunity close to you, or browse by categories such as "children and youth," "health and medicine" or "environmental." Click on the virtual listings tab to find all sorts of ways you can help remotely with skills you already have, such as tutoring first graders in reading with just a computer and a phone or helping with art projects or web design. Sort by "local opportunities" within the virtual tab to find specific causes in your area.
[pullquote]be proactive in your giving by doing research[/pullquote]
Where ever you end up donating your time or money, Charity Navigator offers these tips for "intelligent giving." Be proactive in your giving by doing your research. If your interest is cancer research, don't just donate to a generic cancer charity but have a targeted goal such as providing cancer screenings for at-risk individuals. Resist the urge to simply send money to the first person who calls you on the phone asking for a donation during a time of crisis. Hang up the phone, research the charity online, and then donate directly with them instead. You'll cut out the middle man and make every dollar you donate count. Lastly, when it comes to philanthropic investments, "spreading the love" to multiple causes is actually not beneficial to any of them. Choose one, or possibly two, that are particularly close to your heart and concentrate your efforts. In this way you can bring about the most substantive change.
Friday, September 13, 2013
The Switch to Windows 8 - Part 1
Despite my tech-writer status, I’ve held out against moving to Windows 8. I am strongly in favor of productivity and I find that learning an entirely new layout and way of getting around in my PC tends to hinder my ability to get things done. And yet, my trusty Windows 7 laptop has seen better days.
This is where our story begins: I’m throwing myself under the proverbial bus and taking on Windows 8 once and for all. Here’s what I learned to make the transition easier for you, when your time comes to upgrade.
The new Windows default home screen is drastically different from your old, familiar desktop with its icons and start button. Now you’re greeted with a page filled with large, colorful “tiles” that link to common programs, apps and display constantly updating information. If you’ve ever seen a Windows Smartphone you’ve had a preview of what your new homepage will look like.
As a user of mobile handheld devices, I found that I like quick-link apps and updated info. For example, the weather app is current for my location and time of day; my news feed is actively scrolling through top stories (from the sources that I’ve selected); and new email, Facebook and IM client messages populate right on my homepage without having to launch an application or browser.
If you find the “metro” interface uncomfortable, you can jump straight to your cozy, familiar desktop just by selecting the “Desktop” tile on the lower left side of the home screen. You’ll be greeted by the layout you’re used to, including standard icons to launch common programs. Add desktop icons to quickly launch the programs you use the most and access documents and files through the familiar file folder icon in the lower left corner.
However, the standard Start button is well and truly gone. Even with the Windows 8.1 update soon to be released, the Start button that you’re used to using to access common programs, the Control Panel, Devices and Run command line is nowhere to be found in Windows 8. You can install an app to give you back the familiar functionality. My favorite is Start8 from Stardock (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/, $4.99) because it creates a Start button that looks most like Windows 7 and includes most of the same functions (including a shut down and Run option).
Instead of clicking the Windows logo Start button, Windows 8 will have you clicking the upper or lower right corners to launch the “Charms” menu. This quick menu gives you links to Search (a handy feature that lets you type to pull up any program or file on your machine), an icon to return you to your home (i.e., Start) screen (though clicking the Windows button on your keyboard will also return you to your home screen at any time), and Settings (which is where you now go to power down your PC).
[pullquote]the start button is well and truly gone[/pullquote]
Moving your cursor to the corners of the screen is a gesture you’ll quickly grow familiar with. Hover your cursor in the upper left corner for a thumbnail list of all currently running apps. Click in the lower left corner to see a small icon of the most recently used app – it will show the Start screen if that’s the last place you’ve been. Right click with your cursor in the lower left corner of the screen to launch the “Simple Start” menu, offering links to System, Task Manager, Control Panel and Run command.
Stay tuned next week as I explore the joy of apps, touch gestures (if you opt for a touch screen) and handy keyboard shortcuts.
This is where our story begins: I’m throwing myself under the proverbial bus and taking on Windows 8 once and for all. Here’s what I learned to make the transition easier for you, when your time comes to upgrade.
The new Windows default home screen is drastically different from your old, familiar desktop with its icons and start button. Now you’re greeted with a page filled with large, colorful “tiles” that link to common programs, apps and display constantly updating information. If you’ve ever seen a Windows Smartphone you’ve had a preview of what your new homepage will look like.
As a user of mobile handheld devices, I found that I like quick-link apps and updated info. For example, the weather app is current for my location and time of day; my news feed is actively scrolling through top stories (from the sources that I’ve selected); and new email, Facebook and IM client messages populate right on my homepage without having to launch an application or browser.
If you find the “metro” interface uncomfortable, you can jump straight to your cozy, familiar desktop just by selecting the “Desktop” tile on the lower left side of the home screen. You’ll be greeted by the layout you’re used to, including standard icons to launch common programs. Add desktop icons to quickly launch the programs you use the most and access documents and files through the familiar file folder icon in the lower left corner.
However, the standard Start button is well and truly gone. Even with the Windows 8.1 update soon to be released, the Start button that you’re used to using to access common programs, the Control Panel, Devices and Run command line is nowhere to be found in Windows 8. You can install an app to give you back the familiar functionality. My favorite is Start8 from Stardock (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/, $4.99) because it creates a Start button that looks most like Windows 7 and includes most of the same functions (including a shut down and Run option).
Instead of clicking the Windows logo Start button, Windows 8 will have you clicking the upper or lower right corners to launch the “Charms” menu. This quick menu gives you links to Search (a handy feature that lets you type to pull up any program or file on your machine), an icon to return you to your home (i.e., Start) screen (though clicking the Windows button on your keyboard will also return you to your home screen at any time), and Settings (which is where you now go to power down your PC).
[pullquote]the start button is well and truly gone[/pullquote]
Moving your cursor to the corners of the screen is a gesture you’ll quickly grow familiar with. Hover your cursor in the upper left corner for a thumbnail list of all currently running apps. Click in the lower left corner to see a small icon of the most recently used app – it will show the Start screen if that’s the last place you’ve been. Right click with your cursor in the lower left corner of the screen to launch the “Simple Start” menu, offering links to System, Task Manager, Control Panel and Run command.
Stay tuned next week as I explore the joy of apps, touch gestures (if you opt for a touch screen) and handy keyboard shortcuts.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
The Switch to Windows 8 - Part 1
Despite my tech-writer status, I’ve held out against moving to Windows 8. I am strongly in favor of productivity and I find that learning an entirely new layout and way of getting around in my PC tends to hinder my ability to get things done. And yet, my trusty Windows 7 laptop has seen better days.
This is where our story begins: I’m throwing myself under the proverbial bus and taking on Windows 8 once and for all. Here’s what I learned to make the transition easier for you, when your time comes to upgrade.
The new Windows default home screen is drastically different from your old, familiar desktop with its icons and start button. Now you’re greeted with a page filled with large, colorful “tiles” that link to common programs, apps and display constantly updating information. If you’ve ever seen a Windows Smartphone you’ve had a preview of what your new homepage will look like.
As a user of mobile handheld devices, I found that I like quick-link apps and updated info. For example, the weather app is current for my location and time of day; my news feed is actively scrolling through top stories (from the sources that I’ve selected); and new email, Facebook and IM client messages populate right on my homepage without having to launch an application or browser.
If you find the “metro” interface uncomfortable, you can jump straight to your cozy, familiar desktop just by selecting the “Desktop” tile on the lower left side of the home screen. You’ll be greeted by the layout you’re used to, including standard icons to launch common programs. Add desktop icons to quickly launch the programs you use the most and access documents and files through the familiar file folder icon in the lower left corner.
However, the standard Start button is well and truly gone. Even with the Windows 8.1 update soon to be released, the Start button that you’re used to using to access common programs, the Control Panel, Devices and Run command line is nowhere to be found in Windows 8. You can install an app to give you back the familiar functionality. My favorite is Start8 from Stardock (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/, $4.99) because it creates a Start button that looks most like Windows 7 and includes most of the same functions (including a shut down and Run option).
Instead of clicking the Windows logo Start button, Windows 8 will have you clicking the upper or lower right corners to launch the “Charms” menu. This quick menu gives you links to Search (a handy feature that lets you type to pull up any program or file on your machine), an icon to return you to your home (i.e., Start) screen (though clicking the Windows button on your keyboard will also return you to your home screen at any time), and Settings (which is where you now go to power down your PC).
[pullquote]the start button is well and truly gone[/pullquote]
Moving your cursor to the corners of the screen is a gesture you’ll quickly grow familiar with. Hover your cursor in the upper left corner for a thumbnail list of all currently running apps. Click in the lower left corner to see a small icon of the most recently used app – it will show the Start screen if that’s the last place you’ve been. Right click with your cursor in the lower left corner of the screen to launch the “Simple Start” menu, offering links to System, Task Manager, Control Panel and Run command.
Stay tuned next week as I explore the joy of apps, touch gestures (if you opt for a touch screen) and handy keyboard shortcuts.
This is where our story begins: I’m throwing myself under the proverbial bus and taking on Windows 8 once and for all. Here’s what I learned to make the transition easier for you, when your time comes to upgrade.
The new Windows default home screen is drastically different from your old, familiar desktop with its icons and start button. Now you’re greeted with a page filled with large, colorful “tiles” that link to common programs, apps and display constantly updating information. If you’ve ever seen a Windows Smartphone you’ve had a preview of what your new homepage will look like.
As a user of mobile handheld devices, I found that I like quick-link apps and updated info. For example, the weather app is current for my location and time of day; my news feed is actively scrolling through top stories (from the sources that I’ve selected); and new email, Facebook and IM client messages populate right on my homepage without having to launch an application or browser.
If you find the “metro” interface uncomfortable, you can jump straight to your cozy, familiar desktop just by selecting the “Desktop” tile on the lower left side of the home screen. You’ll be greeted by the layout you’re used to, including standard icons to launch common programs. Add desktop icons to quickly launch the programs you use the most and access documents and files through the familiar file folder icon in the lower left corner.
However, the standard Start button is well and truly gone. Even with the Windows 8.1 update soon to be released, the Start button that you’re used to using to access common programs, the Control Panel, Devices and Run command line is nowhere to be found in Windows 8. You can install an app to give you back the familiar functionality. My favorite is Start8 from Stardock (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/, $4.99) because it creates a Start button that looks most like Windows 7 and includes most of the same functions (including a shut down and Run option).
Instead of clicking the Windows logo Start button, Windows 8 will have you clicking the upper or lower right corners to launch the “Charms” menu. This quick menu gives you links to Search (a handy feature that lets you type to pull up any program or file on your machine), an icon to return you to your home (i.e., Start) screen (though clicking the Windows button on your keyboard will also return you to your home screen at any time), and Settings (which is where you now go to power down your PC).
[pullquote]the start button is well and truly gone[/pullquote]
Moving your cursor to the corners of the screen is a gesture you’ll quickly grow familiar with. Hover your cursor in the upper left corner for a thumbnail list of all currently running apps. Click in the lower left corner to see a small icon of the most recently used app – it will show the Start screen if that’s the last place you’ve been. Right click with your cursor in the lower left corner of the screen to launch the “Simple Start” menu, offering links to System, Task Manager, Control Panel and Run command.
Stay tuned next week as I explore the joy of apps, touch gestures (if you opt for a touch screen) and handy keyboard shortcuts.
Internet.org - Universal Internet Access
If you’re reading this article, you’re in a minority of two billion: people with internet access. While it seems like nearly everyone has access to the internet, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg wants to make sure that everyone does.
Zuckerberg announced recently the launch of Internet.org, “a global partnership with the goal of making internet access available to the next 5 billion people.” His goal is to see that information is open and publicly accessible not only everywhere, but to everyone in the world. While Facebook has been Zuckerberg’s cash cow, his aim with Internet.org is more humanitarian.
According to Internet.org, their goals to improve internet access are threefold:
Affordable access: One of the largest barriers to internet access is the cost associated. Not only are smartphones expensive, but data plans incur significant recurring charges which people struggling to put roofs over their head cannot afford. Internet.org aims to “develop lower-cost, higher-quality smartphones and partnerships to more broadly deploy internet access in underserved communities.” Several device providers, including Ericsson, Nokia, and Samsung, are part of the Internet.org partnership.
Efficient Data Use: Another barrier is one which only those of us who still have dial-up will understand: data use. While most sites load well on DSL and Cable connections, those who rely on internet from satellite or balloon (really, balloon), have trouble downloading webpages that are not optimized well. With more efficient data compression and well-structured websites, more information will be available to those without a physical data link.
Helping Businesses Drive Access: While Internet.org has lofty goals, they’re not without their share of practicality. Zuckerberg knows that getting everyone online will not be free, and part of Internet.org’s goal is to create incentives for mobile providers and developers to improve access.
The full press release is available here and includes statements by Nokia, MediaTek, Opera, and Samsung.
Zuckerberg announced recently the launch of Internet.org, “a global partnership with the goal of making internet access available to the next 5 billion people.” His goal is to see that information is open and publicly accessible not only everywhere, but to everyone in the world. While Facebook has been Zuckerberg’s cash cow, his aim with Internet.org is more humanitarian.
According to Internet.org, their goals to improve internet access are threefold:
Affordable access: One of the largest barriers to internet access is the cost associated. Not only are smartphones expensive, but data plans incur significant recurring charges which people struggling to put roofs over their head cannot afford. Internet.org aims to “develop lower-cost, higher-quality smartphones and partnerships to more broadly deploy internet access in underserved communities.” Several device providers, including Ericsson, Nokia, and Samsung, are part of the Internet.org partnership.
Efficient Data Use: Another barrier is one which only those of us who still have dial-up will understand: data use. While most sites load well on DSL and Cable connections, those who rely on internet from satellite or balloon (really, balloon), have trouble downloading webpages that are not optimized well. With more efficient data compression and well-structured websites, more information will be available to those without a physical data link.
Helping Businesses Drive Access: While Internet.org has lofty goals, they’re not without their share of practicality. Zuckerberg knows that getting everyone online will not be free, and part of Internet.org’s goal is to create incentives for mobile providers and developers to improve access.
The full press release is available here and includes statements by Nokia, MediaTek, Opera, and Samsung.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Back to School Apps
While I’ve consistently proclaimed that no student needs a tablet or Smartphone to succeed, handheld internet-enabled gadgets can serve a purpose. From downloading textbooks to syncing notes and reference materials, there are some amazing tools for studying, research and organization. I wish that I’d had them when schlepping back and forth to class oh-so-many years ago. If your back-to-schooler has been lucky enough to get their hands on a tablet or WiFi-capable mobile device, these apps can help them make the most of it.
Save yourself from the backache resulting from lugging around that huge Chemistry tome with Kno Textbooks (www.kno.com, free for iPhone, iPad, Android or Windows), an online text book resource boasting over 200,000 titles. Purchase textbooks through the app and you’ll have digital content available on your computer and all your mobile devices. Engage with interactive graphics, click to view more information on intriguing topics, add notes and use advanced search features to make studying easier. There are even integrated flashcards for when exam time comes around. Textbooks are available for grades K-12, college and advanced degree courses.
Going from one class and one teacher to six or seven can be a leap, one that can lead to missed deadlines and forgotten assignments. While there are many homework tracking tools available, I like the cross-platform syncing capabilities of myHomework Student Planner (https://myhomeworkapp.com/, free for iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle or Windows, $1.99/year for ad-free experience). Quickly view your course load, see assignments and sort by date due, type (for example, reading, paper, or study), or by course. Due dates are integrated with your calendar and you’ll receive alerts of impending deadlines.
If your teacher uses Teachers.io, myHomework allows you to “join” their class and have course information and whatever the teacher has provided (like the syllabus or assignments) automatically updated to your device. Parents can login to an account that they create for their child to keep abreast of progress on homework and projects, or view notes added by their teacher through Teachers.io. Information is automatically synced across all devices with the myHomework app, or login online to view or update your account.
If your student is getting buried under a sea of paper and losing important notes or reference materials, Evernote (www.evernote.com, free, for iPhone, iPad, Android or Windows) lets you digitally store and organize notes, photos and weblinks related to your course of study across all your devices. Take a picture of a page in a book or the printout of an assignment, and Evernote’s text recognition will convert it into a searchable, easily retrievable digital document. Save, organize and sync everything related to a project, paper or study topic and sync it across all your devices so it’s always at hand. See the video guide here: http://evernote.com/getting_started/
Mobile devices can give you access to a wealth of information:
Never be at a loss for words again with dictionary.com at your fingertips. Download the Dictionary.com app (http://dictionary.reference.com/apps, free, all platforms) so that the next time your professor pontificates about preterition, you’ll know just what he means.
WolframAlpha (http://products.wolframalpha.com/mobile/, $2.99, all platforms) has a silly name, but can answer just about any query from “how far is the Earth from the sun?” to “compare the air speed of a peregrine falcon to the land speed of a cheetah.” There are also apps for data related to specific courses of study, such as Tides, Genomics, Algebra, Corporate Finance, etc.
If you’re tackling a second language, Google Translate (www.google.com/mobile/translate/, free, iOS and Android) lets you type or speak what you want to say and instantly view the translation in over 50 languages. The text-to-speech feature lets you hear the spoken translation for more than 30 languages, or take a photo of non-Latin writing to see the translation in standard American characters.
For anyone who remembers leafing through the pages of the Encyclopedia Britannica for well-written and concise information about famous people, places and events in history, consider that wealth of information being constantly updated and always at hand. Britannica offers a subscription-based app (www.britannica.com/, $1.99/month for iPhone or iPad, $4.99/year for Windows) with detailed descriptions, full color images, and all the meticulously fact-checked information lacking from Wikipedia.
Image from Apple
Save yourself from the backache resulting from lugging around that huge Chemistry tome with Kno Textbooks (www.kno.com, free for iPhone, iPad, Android or Windows), an online text book resource boasting over 200,000 titles. Purchase textbooks through the app and you’ll have digital content available on your computer and all your mobile devices. Engage with interactive graphics, click to view more information on intriguing topics, add notes and use advanced search features to make studying easier. There are even integrated flashcards for when exam time comes around. Textbooks are available for grades K-12, college and advanced degree courses.
Going from one class and one teacher to six or seven can be a leap, one that can lead to missed deadlines and forgotten assignments. While there are many homework tracking tools available, I like the cross-platform syncing capabilities of myHomework Student Planner (https://myhomeworkapp.com/, free for iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle or Windows, $1.99/year for ad-free experience). Quickly view your course load, see assignments and sort by date due, type (for example, reading, paper, or study), or by course. Due dates are integrated with your calendar and you’ll receive alerts of impending deadlines.
If your teacher uses Teachers.io, myHomework allows you to “join” their class and have course information and whatever the teacher has provided (like the syllabus or assignments) automatically updated to your device. Parents can login to an account that they create for their child to keep abreast of progress on homework and projects, or view notes added by their teacher through Teachers.io. Information is automatically synced across all devices with the myHomework app, or login online to view or update your account.
If your student is getting buried under a sea of paper and losing important notes or reference materials, Evernote (www.evernote.com, free, for iPhone, iPad, Android or Windows) lets you digitally store and organize notes, photos and weblinks related to your course of study across all your devices. Take a picture of a page in a book or the printout of an assignment, and Evernote’s text recognition will convert it into a searchable, easily retrievable digital document. Save, organize and sync everything related to a project, paper or study topic and sync it across all your devices so it’s always at hand. See the video guide here: http://evernote.com/getting_started/
Mobile devices can give you access to a wealth of information:
Never be at a loss for words again with dictionary.com at your fingertips. Download the Dictionary.com app (http://dictionary.reference.com/apps, free, all platforms) so that the next time your professor pontificates about preterition, you’ll know just what he means.
WolframAlpha (http://products.wolframalpha.com/mobile/, $2.99, all platforms) has a silly name, but can answer just about any query from “how far is the Earth from the sun?” to “compare the air speed of a peregrine falcon to the land speed of a cheetah.” There are also apps for data related to specific courses of study, such as Tides, Genomics, Algebra, Corporate Finance, etc.
If you’re tackling a second language, Google Translate (www.google.com/mobile/translate/, free, iOS and Android) lets you type or speak what you want to say and instantly view the translation in over 50 languages. The text-to-speech feature lets you hear the spoken translation for more than 30 languages, or take a photo of non-Latin writing to see the translation in standard American characters.
For anyone who remembers leafing through the pages of the Encyclopedia Britannica for well-written and concise information about famous people, places and events in history, consider that wealth of information being constantly updated and always at hand. Britannica offers a subscription-based app (www.britannica.com/, $1.99/month for iPhone or iPad, $4.99/year for Windows) with detailed descriptions, full color images, and all the meticulously fact-checked information lacking from Wikipedia.
Image from Apple
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Choose a Tablet - Part 2
Tablets are growing in popularity. Lightweight, ultra-portable and with a user-friendly and immersive touch-screen, it’s no wonder that more and more people are wondering if a tablet could replace their PC. Last week, I started to answer a reader’s inquiry about choosing a tablet for email, Internet, Facebook and reading books and magazines. This week, we’ll explore getting and storing content on a tablet, as well as offline functionality.
A tablet’s operating system and manufacturer determines where content originates from and this should factor into your decision if you plan to purchase games, movies, books or magazines. Amazon has a huge library of reasonably priced media. Apple’s iTunes and Google Play stores each have a large amount of content but tend to be a bit more expensive. Before you buy a tablet, find out where you’ll need to go to get content. Make sure there’s a huge selection of apps and media and then review a few games, books or movies that you’d be likely to purchase to compare pricing. A dollar or two on an item won’t break the bank, unless you spend an extra dollar or two a few times a week.
The iPad’s front-runner status means that you’ll have a massive selection of apps to choose from. This can come in really handy if you’re looking to integrate your tablet with other programs or things in your home (like Smart home remotely-controlled thermostats or lighting systems) as most app writers know that many of their likely consumers own an iPhone, iPad or iPod. However, most app stores will offer a wide selection of more common games and programs.
Storage capacity will determine how many apps you can install and how much data you can store on the device. Books take up very little space: you can expect to store about 1,000 eBooks in 2GB. Magazines can take a bit more due to color graphics and interactive features. Games can take up a lot of space: if they’re detailed and image-rich they can take up 1GB each. The true space hog is video content. If you buy an HD movie and want to be able to watch it offline, downloading it to your device will require 2-4GB of available storage.
Many tablet-fans will point you toward cloud storage solutions. Typically you’ll get a free account to store some additional content on the manufacturer’s cloud server, but you’ll need to have access to the Internet to access your cloud “data locker.” If you think you’ll store a lot on the device itself, consider a tablet that supports expanding memory via a removable SD memory card like Microsoft’s Surface or the Barnes and Noble Nook (iPads do not).
[pullquote]tablets definitely lose some functionality when they can't get online[/pullquote]
Tablets definitely lose some functionality when they can’t get online. With a WiFi-only device, you won’t have access to new emails or be able to use Facebook when you’re out of range of a WiFi signal. While books and magazines are typically downloaded to your tablet over WiFi (so that they’re later available offline), if you finish your book and want to download another when you’re not in WiFi range, you’re out of luck. Many games and applications rely on Internet access as well, though there are certainly plenty that retain full functionality offline.
While your tablet will be less useful offline, it won’t be a paperweight. Before you spend more on a tablet that supports cell signal and commit to the cost of a data plan subscription, try to determine how much time you’ll be away from WiFi and whether you’ll still get enough use out of your device when offline.
A tablet’s operating system and manufacturer determines where content originates from and this should factor into your decision if you plan to purchase games, movies, books or magazines. Amazon has a huge library of reasonably priced media. Apple’s iTunes and Google Play stores each have a large amount of content but tend to be a bit more expensive. Before you buy a tablet, find out where you’ll need to go to get content. Make sure there’s a huge selection of apps and media and then review a few games, books or movies that you’d be likely to purchase to compare pricing. A dollar or two on an item won’t break the bank, unless you spend an extra dollar or two a few times a week.
The iPad’s front-runner status means that you’ll have a massive selection of apps to choose from. This can come in really handy if you’re looking to integrate your tablet with other programs or things in your home (like Smart home remotely-controlled thermostats or lighting systems) as most app writers know that many of their likely consumers own an iPhone, iPad or iPod. However, most app stores will offer a wide selection of more common games and programs.
Storage capacity will determine how many apps you can install and how much data you can store on the device. Books take up very little space: you can expect to store about 1,000 eBooks in 2GB. Magazines can take a bit more due to color graphics and interactive features. Games can take up a lot of space: if they’re detailed and image-rich they can take up 1GB each. The true space hog is video content. If you buy an HD movie and want to be able to watch it offline, downloading it to your device will require 2-4GB of available storage.
Many tablet-fans will point you toward cloud storage solutions. Typically you’ll get a free account to store some additional content on the manufacturer’s cloud server, but you’ll need to have access to the Internet to access your cloud “data locker.” If you think you’ll store a lot on the device itself, consider a tablet that supports expanding memory via a removable SD memory card like Microsoft’s Surface or the Barnes and Noble Nook (iPads do not).
[pullquote]tablets definitely lose some functionality when they can't get online[/pullquote]
Tablets definitely lose some functionality when they can’t get online. With a WiFi-only device, you won’t have access to new emails or be able to use Facebook when you’re out of range of a WiFi signal. While books and magazines are typically downloaded to your tablet over WiFi (so that they’re later available offline), if you finish your book and want to download another when you’re not in WiFi range, you’re out of luck. Many games and applications rely on Internet access as well, though there are certainly plenty that retain full functionality offline.
While your tablet will be less useful offline, it won’t be a paperweight. Before you spend more on a tablet that supports cell signal and commit to the cost of a data plan subscription, try to determine how much time you’ll be away from WiFi and whether you’ll still get enough use out of your device when offline.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Save Money on Tech
If there’s one thing we Nerds learn early it’s that technology doesn’t come cheap. Even after you shell out the dough for the computer, home theater set up or mobile device, you have to pay for Internet, data plans, and tons of monthly subscription fees to keep the toys buzzing and clicking. This week, I'll share some ways that I've found to enjoy my tech to its fullest and live the "nerd" lifestyle for less.
Drop your cable or satellite. Recently, my husband and I ditched satellite TV. It took us almost a year of paying over $100 a month before we finally took the big leap and we haven’t missed it. We're paying less per month and simply using more of the services we were already subscribed to.
It may not be for everyone, but if you're already paying for services like Hulu, Netflix and Amazon Prime, they can easily take the place of satellite or cable. If they're not on Hulu, current TV shows can be streamed directly from network websites: ABC, CBS, and NBC all offer several weeks worth of online content you can stream for free. I used to keep up with Dancing with the Stars this way.
Want to watch on the big screen? Gaming consoles (like X-Box, Playstation of Wii), Roku, Apple TV and some newer BluRay players can all stream content directly to your TV. Google just introduced a new device called Chromecast (www.google.com/chromecast, $35) which fits into the palm of your hand and attaches directly to your HDTV, working similarly to Roku and Apple TV. It requires another device such as a Smartphone, tablet or laptop to operate, but works with both Android and Apple products, allowing you to stream the Internet and content from Netflix or Google Play (movies, TV shows and music).
Even if you aren’t willing to ditch it entirely, contact your satellite or cable provider about downgrading to a “broadcast basic” package and then stream the rest of your content. Just making the call will likely lead to discounts from the company working to keep you as a customer.
Ditch the landline. I haven't had a land phone line since 2003. Are you still paying for a land line in addition to the monthly mobile phone bill? Stop that! If you simply can't drop it for sentimental reasons, consider switching to a Voice-Over-IP (VOIP) service. Services like Vonage (www.vonage.com) hook up a phone to your Internet either through a converter box or using a special IP phone. These services aren't free, but they're generally cheaper than what you're paying monthly for AT&T.
Ditch those long distance charges and make calls directly from computer to computer using VOIP. Providers like Skype (www.skype.com) and Google Talk (www.google.com/hangouts) have free options for video and voice-only calling. Users should be aware that VOIP can't completely replace all of your phones as it doesn't support emergency calling.
For those that use a landline for faxing, consider scanning your documents and emailing them to the recipient. Need a phone line for your home alarm? Ask your monitoring company about mobile packages that allow your alarm to contact dispatch over a cell connection.
If you'd still like to have a land phone line for emergencies, call your phone provider to ask about “measured rate” plans that will cost much less per month but more per call, then use VOIP, Skype or your cell for most of your calling needs.
Lower your mobile phone bill. It's hard to resist surfing the Internet while you're sitting in the doctor's office, but if you're not hooked up to WiFi, those minutes can add up fast. Try to make sure you're always connected to WiFi, and turn off apps that switch to the phone network when WiFi is unavailable.
Providers like Skype have applications for mobile-to-mobile calling for a small monthly fee, and video isn’t required. Use them as often as you can on your mobile device when you're connected to WiFi and save minutes with your mobile service provider.
We all love our texting but charges can add up fast. Disable automatic text alerts from social media and consider using a free texting app instead of texting through your service provider. If you're Facebook friends, you can download and use Facebook’s free Messenger app and message for free through the application. You don't even have to exchange phone numbers that way.
Review your bill every month and make a note of the small charges that weasel their way onto your bill, including app charges. Make sure to cancel the additional "services" and contact your service provider to have the previous charges reversed.
Drop your cable or satellite. Recently, my husband and I ditched satellite TV. It took us almost a year of paying over $100 a month before we finally took the big leap and we haven’t missed it. We're paying less per month and simply using more of the services we were already subscribed to.
It may not be for everyone, but if you're already paying for services like Hulu, Netflix and Amazon Prime, they can easily take the place of satellite or cable. If they're not on Hulu, current TV shows can be streamed directly from network websites: ABC, CBS, and NBC all offer several weeks worth of online content you can stream for free. I used to keep up with Dancing with the Stars this way.
Want to watch on the big screen? Gaming consoles (like X-Box, Playstation of Wii), Roku, Apple TV and some newer BluRay players can all stream content directly to your TV. Google just introduced a new device called Chromecast (www.google.com/chromecast, $35) which fits into the palm of your hand and attaches directly to your HDTV, working similarly to Roku and Apple TV. It requires another device such as a Smartphone, tablet or laptop to operate, but works with both Android and Apple products, allowing you to stream the Internet and content from Netflix or Google Play (movies, TV shows and music).
Even if you aren’t willing to ditch it entirely, contact your satellite or cable provider about downgrading to a “broadcast basic” package and then stream the rest of your content. Just making the call will likely lead to discounts from the company working to keep you as a customer.
Ditch the landline. I haven't had a land phone line since 2003. Are you still paying for a land line in addition to the monthly mobile phone bill? Stop that! If you simply can't drop it for sentimental reasons, consider switching to a Voice-Over-IP (VOIP) service. Services like Vonage (www.vonage.com) hook up a phone to your Internet either through a converter box or using a special IP phone. These services aren't free, but they're generally cheaper than what you're paying monthly for AT&T.
Ditch those long distance charges and make calls directly from computer to computer using VOIP. Providers like Skype (www.skype.com) and Google Talk (www.google.com/hangouts) have free options for video and voice-only calling. Users should be aware that VOIP can't completely replace all of your phones as it doesn't support emergency calling.
For those that use a landline for faxing, consider scanning your documents and emailing them to the recipient. Need a phone line for your home alarm? Ask your monitoring company about mobile packages that allow your alarm to contact dispatch over a cell connection.
If you'd still like to have a land phone line for emergencies, call your phone provider to ask about “measured rate” plans that will cost much less per month but more per call, then use VOIP, Skype or your cell for most of your calling needs.
Lower your mobile phone bill. It's hard to resist surfing the Internet while you're sitting in the doctor's office, but if you're not hooked up to WiFi, those minutes can add up fast. Try to make sure you're always connected to WiFi, and turn off apps that switch to the phone network when WiFi is unavailable.
Providers like Skype have applications for mobile-to-mobile calling for a small monthly fee, and video isn’t required. Use them as often as you can on your mobile device when you're connected to WiFi and save minutes with your mobile service provider.
We all love our texting but charges can add up fast. Disable automatic text alerts from social media and consider using a free texting app instead of texting through your service provider. If you're Facebook friends, you can download and use Facebook’s free Messenger app and message for free through the application. You don't even have to exchange phone numbers that way.
Review your bill every month and make a note of the small charges that weasel their way onto your bill, including app charges. Make sure to cancel the additional "services" and contact your service provider to have the previous charges reversed.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Choose a Tablet - Part 1
Last week, Christina P. sent me a great question about how to choose a tablet and what they do, an inquiry I receive regularly so I thought I’d share my reply in this two-part series:
Not all tablets are created equal, but there are some great options available that will give you the functionality that you’re looking for. The leader in the tablet market is undoubtedly the iPad, with sales figures leaving nearest competitors Samsung and Amazon in the dust. It’s a proven, reliable product that will definitely handle surfing the net, cruising Facebook, and keeping up on your news and magazines.
Apple products are generally more expensive than their competitors. This doesn’t inherently make them superior, but the price point is set due to its market share and frankly, Apple charges the price that people will pay to get an iPad. Just about any tablet from an established, reputable manufacturer would easily perform the functions you need. There are so many tablets on the market that it can be confusing to try to pick one up off the shelf. Stick with a well-known brand like Samsung’s Galaxy, Microsoft’s Surface, Google’s Nexus or an eReader from Amazon or Barnes and Noble to ensure reliability.
Speaking of eReaders that offer tablet functionality, Amazon’s Kindle Fire or Barnes and Noble’s Nook are significantly less expensive and will still give you access to Internet, email, and Facebook, as well as books and magazines. For the basic functions you list in your inquiry, I highly recommend that you consider Amazon’s Kindle Fire HD, starting at $269 for a version with 16GB of storage and a screen size and resolution comparable to the iPad 2 with retina display (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008GFRB9E/ref=fs_j). There are less expensive versions with either a smaller screen or lower resolution, but across the board you’ll save an average of $200 or more going with Amazon over a comparable Apple product.
As for the retina display upgrade offered on iPads, it increases the resolution capability of the screen. This will improve the clarity of magazine pages, and support viewing HD videos or content from the net. The best way to decide if it’s worth the price is to view it next to the standard iPad 2 to see if notice a marked difference.
In fact, I’d recommend that you visit a retail outlet that carries several brands (such as Target or Best Buy) to see, touch and play with a few tablets and eReaders before you decide so that you can see how they compare. Note screen size, resolution and storage capacity when price shopping to ensure you’re comparing similar products. Navigate between applications to make sure it feels user-friendly and relatively intuitive.
Stay tuned next week for more on how to get content on the device, storage capacity and whether or not to consider a 4G version to improve functionality when you’re away from WiFi.
photo from sxc.hu
I am considering a tablet for Internet, Facebook and reading - books and magazines, but I don't even own a smart phone, so I'm very confused. Do all tablets generally offer the same features? I don't understand why iPads are a lot more expensive than other tablets. Is the retina display worth the extra cost? If I plan to use a tablet on the road, will I need a cell phone plan for it? If you download a magazine, is it saved on the tablet, or do you need some type of internet connection to read it? What other tablets would you recommend? Thanks for any help you can give me.
Not all tablets are created equal, but there are some great options available that will give you the functionality that you’re looking for. The leader in the tablet market is undoubtedly the iPad, with sales figures leaving nearest competitors Samsung and Amazon in the dust. It’s a proven, reliable product that will definitely handle surfing the net, cruising Facebook, and keeping up on your news and magazines.
Apple products are generally more expensive than their competitors. This doesn’t inherently make them superior, but the price point is set due to its market share and frankly, Apple charges the price that people will pay to get an iPad. Just about any tablet from an established, reputable manufacturer would easily perform the functions you need. There are so many tablets on the market that it can be confusing to try to pick one up off the shelf. Stick with a well-known brand like Samsung’s Galaxy, Microsoft’s Surface, Google’s Nexus or an eReader from Amazon or Barnes and Noble to ensure reliability.
Speaking of eReaders that offer tablet functionality, Amazon’s Kindle Fire or Barnes and Noble’s Nook are significantly less expensive and will still give you access to Internet, email, and Facebook, as well as books and magazines. For the basic functions you list in your inquiry, I highly recommend that you consider Amazon’s Kindle Fire HD, starting at $269 for a version with 16GB of storage and a screen size and resolution comparable to the iPad 2 with retina display (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008GFRB9E/ref=fs_j). There are less expensive versions with either a smaller screen or lower resolution, but across the board you’ll save an average of $200 or more going with Amazon over a comparable Apple product.
As for the retina display upgrade offered on iPads, it increases the resolution capability of the screen. This will improve the clarity of magazine pages, and support viewing HD videos or content from the net. The best way to decide if it’s worth the price is to view it next to the standard iPad 2 to see if notice a marked difference.
In fact, I’d recommend that you visit a retail outlet that carries several brands (such as Target or Best Buy) to see, touch and play with a few tablets and eReaders before you decide so that you can see how they compare. Note screen size, resolution and storage capacity when price shopping to ensure you’re comparing similar products. Navigate between applications to make sure it feels user-friendly and relatively intuitive.
Stay tuned next week for more on how to get content on the device, storage capacity and whether or not to consider a 4G version to improve functionality when you’re away from WiFi.
photo from sxc.hu
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Nextdoor - Facebook for Neighborhoods?
If you live in a Nerdy Neighborhood, you might want to check out the newest web service that’s making a buzz. It’s called “Nextdoor,” and it’s a social network for neighborhoods. Users can advertise garage sales, post community messages, and connect with others in their area. It’s been described as a “Craigslist and LinkedIn hybrid.”
Not too quick to post your home address online? You should be - identity theft is a growing problem. Fortunately, Nextdoor requires address verification, which means that everyone in a Nextdoor neighborhood must enter a PIN sent to their home address. Users outside of a neighborhood have no access to the groups within a neighborhood. As the CEO, Nirav Tolia, told Mashable, it’s “about problem-solving.”
The service also partners with local authorities, which means that neighborhoods can receive emergency alerts relevant to their neighborhood.
Nextdoor has a list of more than 18,000 neighborhoods on the site, and about 75 are added to the list everyday. If you can’t find your neighborhood on the site you are encouraged to put in a request. Once there are enough people interested in a neighborhood, the group is created and the interested users are sent postcards with PINs. However, the group’s status is contingent on enough users joining within a set time. Nextdoor gives a time period for users to invite a certain number of their neighbors to the service - if not enough people join, the neighborhood is removed from Nextdoor. As people join, the trial period is extended until the group finally becomes permanent.
Nextdoor has an iPhone app as well as a recently-released Android app, which allows users to quickly see group posts and messages relevant to their neighborhood.
For now, Nextdoor is only available in the United States, although they plan on expanding into Canada later in 2013 and other countries the following year.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Mac vs Windows Part 2
In the debate between Windows and Mac operating systems, each has certain advantages over the other – I reviewed the primary differences a couple of weeks ago (see article here). For some users, running Windows on a Mac or OSX on a PC allows for the best of both worlds.
Most Mac lovers will tell you that Apple makes reliable hardware, but there’s no denying that compatibility with 3rd party software designed for Windows can pose a challenge. One way to work around this is to establish a dual boot on an Apple computer using Apple’s Bootcamp software which comes preinstalled on OSX. Find a walkthrough here.
Setting up a dual boot requires that you partition your hard drive into three sections: one to run Windows, one to run OSX and another for your data. Upon starting your system you’ll select which operating system to launch dependent on the task you need to perform. You maintain access to your data when utilizing either OS. The primary challenge is that if you launch one OS and then need to utilize a program on the other partition, you’ll need to restart your computer and boot to the other partition.
Mac users that share files with Windows PCs will find dual boot to be particularly handy. Even programs that have Mac versions, such as Microsoft Office for Mac, often encounter cross-platform compatibility issues, particularly with formatting and appearance. Whether it be fonts that don’t carry over or spacing that becomes distorted, when you need to produce a document, spreadsheet or presentation for a Windows user it’s best to use a Windows OS.
There are also programs and applications (particularly games or less mainstream software) that don’t offer Mac versions. Establishing a dual boot will allow you to run just about any program, even if it’s Mac or Windows-only.
Some users prefer to use a software application such as Parallels to establish a “virtual machine” to run Windows within OSX. The advantages are that it allows you to run Windows and OSX simultaneously and it doesn’t require partitioning your drive - the Windows installation is stored in a file on your current drive and Windows launches in its own window on your normal desktop. This works great for running an occasional, resource-light Windows-only program, but since your system has to run both operating systems simultaneously it’s not a good option for running resource-heavy programs (like PhotoShop or games). Unless your system has a lot of RAM, running a “virtualization” is likely to lead to sluggish performance.
For those that want to run OSX on non-Apple hardware, the process is more challenging. It requires building your own PC with specific hardware, also known as a “Hackintosh.”
There are certainly advantages: OSX is less susceptible to malware and has some great software applications that are not compatible with Windows. Standard PCs offer more hardware flexibility than Macs, allowing you to upgrade certain capabilities (such as graphics processing in order to play high-resolution games) and PCs are typically less expensive.
On the other hand, building a “Hackintosh” may be more than the average user should take on. After selecting specific hardware and building your own PC, you’ll have to format drives and configure BIOS before installing the OS. Once complete, Apple won’t support your custom machine so you’ll be reliant on online forums and trial and error troubleshooting if you run into problems.
Lifehacker maintains an up-to-date guide for creating a “Hackintosh” wherein they walk you through what hardware to buy and the steps to follow for building your own machine and installing OS X.
Most Mac lovers will tell you that Apple makes reliable hardware, but there’s no denying that compatibility with 3rd party software designed for Windows can pose a challenge. One way to work around this is to establish a dual boot on an Apple computer using Apple’s Bootcamp software which comes preinstalled on OSX. Find a walkthrough here.
Setting up a dual boot requires that you partition your hard drive into three sections: one to run Windows, one to run OSX and another for your data. Upon starting your system you’ll select which operating system to launch dependent on the task you need to perform. You maintain access to your data when utilizing either OS. The primary challenge is that if you launch one OS and then need to utilize a program on the other partition, you’ll need to restart your computer and boot to the other partition.
Mac users that share files with Windows PCs will find dual boot to be particularly handy. Even programs that have Mac versions, such as Microsoft Office for Mac, often encounter cross-platform compatibility issues, particularly with formatting and appearance. Whether it be fonts that don’t carry over or spacing that becomes distorted, when you need to produce a document, spreadsheet or presentation for a Windows user it’s best to use a Windows OS.
There are also programs and applications (particularly games or less mainstream software) that don’t offer Mac versions. Establishing a dual boot will allow you to run just about any program, even if it’s Mac or Windows-only.
Some users prefer to use a software application such as Parallels to establish a “virtual machine” to run Windows within OSX. The advantages are that it allows you to run Windows and OSX simultaneously and it doesn’t require partitioning your drive - the Windows installation is stored in a file on your current drive and Windows launches in its own window on your normal desktop. This works great for running an occasional, resource-light Windows-only program, but since your system has to run both operating systems simultaneously it’s not a good option for running resource-heavy programs (like PhotoShop or games). Unless your system has a lot of RAM, running a “virtualization” is likely to lead to sluggish performance.
For those that want to run OSX on non-Apple hardware, the process is more challenging. It requires building your own PC with specific hardware, also known as a “Hackintosh.”
There are certainly advantages: OSX is less susceptible to malware and has some great software applications that are not compatible with Windows. Standard PCs offer more hardware flexibility than Macs, allowing you to upgrade certain capabilities (such as graphics processing in order to play high-resolution games) and PCs are typically less expensive.
On the other hand, building a “Hackintosh” may be more than the average user should take on. After selecting specific hardware and building your own PC, you’ll have to format drives and configure BIOS before installing the OS. Once complete, Apple won’t support your custom machine so you’ll be reliant on online forums and trial and error troubleshooting if you run into problems.
Lifehacker maintains an up-to-date guide for creating a “Hackintosh” wherein they walk you through what hardware to buy and the steps to follow for building your own machine and installing OS X.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Who Does Online Shopping Better? - Amazon, Google, or Bing
Online Shopping Ventures
Who does it better: Amazon, Google, or Bing?
I'm going to let you in on a little secret: I don't like shopping. Wandering around a store, searching for what I need has no appeal to me. As an Amazon Prime member, I find online shopping to be closer to my taste. I search for what I want, click "purchase” and I’m done. Yet Amazon isn’t perfect. The selection can be poor or the search results yield things completely unrelated. Do Google or Bing offer a better selection, or an experience worthy of paying a few bucks for shipping? I ventured online to find out.
I decided to shop for new lunchboxes for the kiddos to take back to school.
Starting with Amazon I typed "lunchboxes" into the search criteria and was rewarded with ... Tupperware. Huh? A company named "EasyLunchboxes" makes a Bento Box Lunch container and Amazon apparently thought that's what I wanted. Results were not much better when I refined the search to "Kids' Lunchboxes." There were plenty of cute options on the first page, but there was also an assortment stuff that was definitely not a lunchbox. I only reviewed the first 24 results out of 2,150 returned, but I expect my search to hit pretty darn close to what I am looking for in that size of a sampling.
Microsoft's search engine Bing is launched through www.shopping.com. My search for "lunchboxes" was rewarded with nearly all of the first 40 returns fitting my criteria. To the left was an option to sort by those options offering "free shipping," which is a nice feature. Another difference: Bing lists the vendors, right on the search page, something you have to dig deeper to find with Google and Amazon. I found listings from JC Penny, EBay and Etsy. Bing even linked me back to Amazon. When you order, you do so directly from the vendor once you've clicked on the product link.
Google Shopping surprised me. Even though Amazon is my default shopping site, I still expected Google to offer the most robust and refined results. Yet I when typed "lunchboxes" into the search bar, over half of the first page (including the first 3 entries) were not lunchboxes at all, but plastic containers, and hardly any of the items on the page were kid-related. Really, Google? At a time of the year where nearly every other vendor is screaming "Back to School" you don’t refine results to such a common category? While Google returned the highest number of results (a whopping 143,000) their relevance left something to be desired.
Amazon's robust rating system is hard to beat, too. This lunchbox has 181 customer reviews, as opposed to Google's mere 4. Incidentally, searching specifically for "R2D2 Lunchbox" via Bing resulted in nothing remotely similar.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Hard Drive Diagnostics
Hard Drive Diagnostics
Keep One Step Ahead of Your Hard Drive
Hard drive failure can be devastating, particularly if it’s been a while since you backed up your data. It can lead to costly data retrieval or worse, loss of data if your drive becomes completely corrupted. Don’t be caught by surprise: make it a habit to regularly run a hard drive diagnostics software tool or at least know what to do if your drive begins to show signs of imminent failure.
A traditional hard drive is similar to a DVD or (for those of us that remember them) a record player. Data is written to one or more “hard” disks that spin really fast; there’s a read/write spindle that accesses and records data on the disk. Physical drive failure is sometimes precluded by an audible clicking that indicates that the spindle isn’t properly moving over the disk or that the disk itself is no longer spinning smoothly. In other cases, a failing drive will lead to reported errors upon boot up, intermittent system crashes, or unexplained “glitches.”
The first step if you suspect that your drive may be failing is to back up your data as soon as possible. The more you use a failing drive the more you risk the data that’s stored on it becoming completely inaccessible. For more info on backing up your data, see my article here: http://www.callnerds.com/data-backup-basics/
Even if your drive isn’t showing signs of imminent death, it’s a good idea to get forewarned of potential problems before they affect your productivity. Integrate a hard drive diagnostics test into your routine maintenance and aim to scan your disk at least a couple of times a year. The process can take several hours, so plan to run the scan after hours.
Windows XP, Vista or 7 users should run the disk check application integrated into Windows to scan for bad sectors and run basic reliability tests. Open “My Computer” or access “Computer” via the start menu and right click on the drive that you want to test. Typically you’re going to select “C:” though if you have data stored on a secondary drive you should run the check on all drives, one at a time. Click on “Properties” and choose the “Tools” tab from the options that appear. Select “Check Now.”
There are two optional check boxes: “Automatically fix file system errors” allows Windows to fix software errors found during the scan. “Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors” allows the software to identify and partition off sectors of the drive that aren’t functioning properly, and then instruct your system not to write data to those sectors in the future.
If you don’t have access to the tool integrated into Windows or if it doesn’t give you the information you need, consider installing the free version of HD Tune (www.hdtune.com), designed for home users looking to scan a single drive. It will scan your disk for errors and give you access to the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology) information that your hard drive maintains. This data can give you a reasonable idea of the health of your hard drive. Access to additional tests, monitoring and support for scanning external drives is available to those who opt for the Pro version ($34.95).
Most hard drive manufacturers offer free diagnostic tools that you can download and use to test the viability of your drive. Under the same Properties menu box you accessed to run Windows’ disk check program, select the Hardware tab. Your hard drive’s manufacturer and model will be listed among “All Drives.” Use this info to search online for your hard drive manufacturer’s diagnostic tool.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Tech for Students
Tech for Students Reviewed
The best in Technology for Education
If you’re replacing an old, reliable PC that just isn’t cutting it anymore, or you’re outfitting your student with some computing power, the back to school season is a prime time to buy electronics. The wave of shoppers drives down prices as retailers compete for your dollars, so it’s a good time to find a great deal. But with all the choices – desktops, laptops, Ultrabooks and tablets - how do you pick the best device to suit your needs? We’re here to help you choose.
Desktop tower: Even though their popularity is waning, there are benefits to a stationary work station. The lack of mobility is great for younger students. Just set up the family PC in a high traffic area to monitor your kid’s online activities, and you’ll never have to track down the computer under junior’s bed when it’s time to power down at night. They’re also friendlier to clumsy fingers: if Johnny spills his soda on the desk you may have to replace a $20 keyboard, but sticky liquid on a laptop can take the whole system out of commission. They’re more cost effective to upgrade, so the system will likely last you longer than more portable alternatives.
Pick a desktop is you are looking for a family PC and have younger students.
Laptop vs. Ultrabook: The benefits of an all-in-one mobile computer are clear. It takes up less space, can be used anywhere and could accompany your older student to class if necessary (although they’re still a bit big to handle the surface space offered by the typical college classroom desk). While monitors aren’t as large as those that usually accompany a desktop PC, they’re comfortably sized to accommodate the long term use expected to compose a term paper or, say, research the mating habits of alpacas.
While laptops and Ultrabooks are usually lumped into the same category when you’re cruising the electronics store, there are some key differences. Ultrabooks are often referred to as “next generation” laptops. They’re smaller, thinner and similar to a tablet with an attached keyboard and a fully-functional Operating System. While this may all sound good, keep in mind that these systems trade their upgrade capability for lightweight portability. Components are stripped (you won’t find an optical drive) or soldered to the motherboard to reduce weight and size, so the memory and hard drive that you buy it with will need to last you the life of the device.
Pick a laptop for a household with older students that you trust to use the system unattended but where out-of-house travel is likely to be minimal. Laptops are available with larger screens than Ultrabooks, so they can better accommodate multi-taskers who like to split screen multiple applications simultaneously. Also, a laptop is a good pick for students who will be using it for extended periods of time, anyone who needs to connect to a variety of shared peripheral devices like communal printers, or anyone who will need a DVD drive.
Pick an Ultrabook when portability is paramount. If your student will be taking the system to class on a regular basis, travelling with it to offsite study locations, or has an exceptionally small workspace available, an Ultrabook may be the best choice.
Tablet: While tablets are gaining popularity, they are not designed to seamlessly replace a fully-functional computer. Consider them a Smartphone with a larger screen that requires a WiFi signal to work optimally. Tablets typically run a mobile OS which is pared down from the software offered on a laptop or Ultrabook. They don’t offer as many connectivity ports, so many functions (like printing or transferring data) will likely require that you connect over a shared WiFi network. You won’t have a disk drive, so content will have to be downloaded from the device’s affiliated App store, limiting you to software developed for mobile devices.
However, tablets can serve a purpose. If you have a shared family PC and older students that need an additional device to surf the net or check email, or want to stream content from tutoring sites or video chat with their study group, a tablet can be a handy tool. With the addition of a note-taking program and compatible stylus, your student can take notes in class and have them instantly transformed into digital, searchable text, making studying for exams a bit less daunting.
Pick a tablet if you need additional Internet access without a lot of workhorse capability.
If you’re still puzzled about the best device to outfit your student for back to school, drop us a line. We’ll help you narrow down the sea of choices to the computer or mobile device that’s right for you.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Moto X Announced
Moto X Announced by Google
There have been rumors around the internet for months concerning the “Moto X.” So what exactly is the big deal about this phone, which is the result of close collaboration between Google and Motorola?
Today everyone finally got their answers at Motorola's press conference during which they officially announced the Moto X. The phone is the first hardware manufactured by Google, which owns Motorola. As a result, the phone is sleek, glossy, and well-designed; any phone nerd's dream. It includes two cameras: a 10-megapixel rear camera and a 2-megapixel front camera. It can be customized with 16 or 32 gigabytes of memory. And the front panel, back panel, and accents, can all have their colors customized, with a total of 540 possible combinations.
But the real power of the Moto X doesn't come from its hardware. It comes from the software within. It's the first phone to use always-on voice activation for Google Now, which is included with the phone. Users can say “Okay, Google Now,” at any point, and the phone will start listening for commands. Users can use the voice interface to find directions, set alarms, search for information, or text contacts. Google Now also detects when the user is driving and provides navigation instructions for relevant waypoints.
In addition, the phone responds to gestures like a double-twist-of-the-wrist, which will pull up the camera from any screen. The idea behind this is that users should be able to capture moments as they happen without having to go through menus to find the camera.
Another feature of the Moto X touted by Google and Motorola is the active display. The screen uses AMOLED technology, which means that instead of unlocking and turning the phone on all the way, users can touch the screen to get at-a-glance information about updates. The screen also stays dim when this display is up, so it's not distracting or painful in dark environments.
The Moto X will be available “...late August, early September” for $199 (16GB) or $249(32GB) with a two-year contract.
Image from phandroid.com
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Mac vs Windows
Mac vs Windows: The Blow-by-Blow
The debate over which PC platform is best, Mac or Windows, has waged for years with both sides equally passionate about which OS reigns supreme. While there’s no single answer for every user, you can find a computer with the right characteristics to meet your computing needs. Here's the low-down on the matchup between Mac and Windows.
WHERE THEY'RE EQUAL:
Usability. You may have heard that Macs are more intuitive than Windows. In reality, neither OS is fundamentally easier to learn. Novice computer users will face challenges learning to navigate either a Mac or a Windows system, and a user experienced with one platform will definitely experience frustrations if they try to switch.
Design capabilities. Although Macs ruled the design world in the 80s and 90s, these days both operating systems are considered equal when you compare their design applications and abilities. Both Macs and Windows systems support a large variety of file types, offering cross-platform compatibility so designers can exchange ideas between Mac and Windows PCs with ease.
WHERE THEY'RE NOT:
Viruses and maintenance. Mac is the clear front runner in this category. While Macs are no longer virus-free, malware remains far less prevalent in Macs. Windows users are plagued with driver updates, security patches and a need for regular anti-virus/ anti-malware scanning, which can lead to clutter within the system and speed issues due to memory consumption. One item of note: because Windows is so experienced with combating malware, they're better suited to quickly address new security issues, whereas Apple tends to struggle with rapid response to new attacks.
Software and gaming. Windows is the big winner here, as it offers a much larger library of compatible software options and nearly three times as many applications in its app store (versus the Mac app store). While you’ll have no trouble finding Mac versions of big-name games or programs like Quicken or Photoshop, if you run a specific software application that isn’t as widely used you may find that it’s a Windows-only program. Graphics cards and compatible gaming hardware options are also limited for Macs, meaning gamers should stick to Windows.
Hardware. Almost all hardware is designed to work with Windows, a huge advantage when you need to upgrade or replace a malfunctioning part. If a key piece of hardware breaks or no longer supports your computing needs, Mac users have more limited upgrade capabilities.
Cost. Apple sells high quality systems for top dollar; they don’t offer budget models. They don’t sell a less reliable motherboard or a slower processor at a discount. Alternatively, there’s a huge variance in the quality and price of Windows-based PCs. A Windows PC with similarly reliable hardware wouldn’t be dramatically less expensive, but Windows systems are typically cheaper due to competition between manufacturers.
Apple doesn’t sell custom machines, so if you want a larger hard drive in your new Mac, you’ll have to get a more expensive model that likely includes additional upgrades you wouldn’t otherwise choose to pay more for.
In conclusion, Windows PCs offer a lower purchase price, but may require more time and money over their lifetime to maintain (in the form of malware removal and the replacement of cheaper hardware) than a Mac. [pullquote]windows offers a lower purchase price, but requires more time to maintain[/pullquote]While Windows systems aren’t inherently easier to use, the popularity of the platform means that you’ll have an easier time finding people to help you if you encounter a problem and will likely have fewer compatibility issues with peripheral hardware or when sharing data with others. On the other hand, Apple products work great together so if you already have other Apple gadgets a Mac may get along nicely in your electronics family.
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