Butts on the Line at Apple and Microsoft

I wish I could just forget about Windows 8 and RT and move on, but the stories keep pouring out of the tech journal factories. One could spend weeks trying to catch up with them all. So, I must include a few more in today’s edition, but they are good ones and worth reading.

I have a hard time believing that Windows 8 sold 4 million upgrades in three days, (more that Windows 7), but Ballmer says it is so. Since his rear end is really on the line with this operating system’s success or failure, I am skeptical.

And speaking of rear ends on the line, Apple terminated two key management guys…including the one that was behind the Apple Maps fiasco in iOS 6. This is definitely the post- Steve Jobs era in Cupertino. According to sources inside the company, most employees were quietly applauding. More may be coming.

As for the two big products announcements yesterday, one was rained out by the super storm on east coast. But Google went ahead anyway and made their announcement, sans press event, trumpeting a new tablet and an upgraded one. Both look very impressive.

Meanwhile, Microsoft held their event in Los Angeles to officially announce their already announced Windows Phone 8. Most of the reports I have read to date say it is a good one, but is it enough for them to catch up to Apple and Android. Probably not. So let’s move forward and read the details. - JRC

Microsoft sold 4 million Windows 8 upgrades in three days

Ballmer said yesterday that Windows 8 is selling faster than Windows 7. Of course, this is based on just a few days, and Microsoft is offering better-than-usual upgrade pricing this time around.

Windows 8: Jack of All Trades, Master of None?

"After spending years learning the hard way that people just don't want a start bar on their cell phones, they are now making the opposite mistake and inflicting a cell phone interface on their desktop users."

How to make Windows 8 look like Windows 7

If you must buy a new computer and are stuck with Windows 8 (and don’t want it), you might want to read this article.

Microsoft's Surface RT will make even a fanboy cry

Is it a laptop or a tablet? The Surface makes a valiant attempt at being both -- but leaves you yearning for one or the other. Note: This is probably the best, most in-depth review of the RT device I have read so far. Luckily for me, it happens to agree with my own opinions.

Microsoft Launches Windows Phone 8

Windows Phone 8, Microsoft's new operating system for cellphones, was launched on Monday and with it the software company's hopes of reclaiming a portion of the fast-growing smartphone market. Includes an informative video.

Google's Big Announcement - Nexus 10

The big Google event in New York was rained out, but they released a new killer tablet without the showbiz. The Nexus 10 features a 10.1-inch PLS (plane-to-line switching) panel with 2,560x1,600-pixel resolution, displaying 299 pixels per inch (ppi). This screen resolution actually beats Apple's best screen.

How new Google Nexus 7 compares with rivals

Google has refreshed its line of Nexus 7 tablet computers, doubling the storage capacity and offering a cellular version. It comes less than a week after Apple announced its iPad Mini. Here's a look at how the Nexus 7 compares with other tablets with comparable screens.

Cloud computing explained

The cloud catches our imagination, and is fast becoming the stuff of life itself. But what exactly is it?

The State of Streaming Music

Spotify, Rdio, Xbox and more: We rate the six biggest streaming services and their chances of survival. PS: I am a huge fan of Pandora.

Gmail rolls out new pop-out window for composing emails

Google changes the design of its email service, incorporates photos into contacts and changes how replies are displayed.

Microsoft’s Big Day of Confusion

(I am a day late getting this blog out. Sorry, but I had to make an unscheduled trip to Yuma, where I still am)

Yesterday, in New York, Microsoft officially introduced two products into the world . First is Windows 8, the newest version of the Windows operating system. The second is Windows RT, the Windows operating system that does not run Windows-based software. What?

Windows 8 is not exactly what you are used to using. It has a split personality. Part one is a Metro-style interface with big clunky colored tiles like you might see on a tablet (in fact you do see them on Windows RT tablets, except they don’t work the same). Part 2 is a desktop interface like you see on Windows 7. There is no start button on either interface and there are so many other changes that you will have to learn a whole new way of doing things. A browser in Metro is different than one running on the desktop. Its like having 1.5 browsers, like Explorer, on the same system.

As for RT, well it is for tablets only. There is no desktop (except for Windows Office). You must load all apps from the Windows App Store. Want your favorite Windows programs on you tablet? Forget about it. To buy a Windows RT tablet, such as the Microsoft Surface ($500 without keyboard), is a huge leap of faith for the consumer since there are hardly any quality apps available at the present time…compared to the iPad and Android tablet which number in the hundreds of thousands. 

So are you confused yet. If I hadn’t read so many articles on the two products, my head would be spinning. So let me boil it down to this: if you are thinking about either products…WAIT!! No need to rush. Learn more before leaping. If you are thinking about buying a Windows tablet, don’t buy the RT tablet. Rather buy a real Windows 8 tablet running an Intel processor. Then you can run your favorite Windows apps. There is an Acer tablet available now for the same price as a Windows RT Surface tablet.

In the meantime, read some of the reviews below. For Windows 8, I’ve included a favorable review and one that is not so favorable. As for RT, article #5 below will give you a roundup of the major reviews. So read, and decide for yourself.

Win8 vs. Windows RT: What to know before you buy

“Windows RT is the version of Windows 8 that doesn’t run Windows programs.” That’s really the heart of the matter — and it’s the source of ongoing confusion for consumers, sales clerks, and others who really should know what you can — and can’t — do with the two OSes.

Windows 8: Do you need it?

After months of build up, Windows 8 is almost upon us, and readers want to know if they need Microsoft's latest offering. I consider a number of usage scenarios, ranging from home users to enterprise.

Windows 8 Review

This is the good review, although it does point out significant flaws. I thought the scores were a little high based on some of the comments.

Windows 8 review: Yes, it's that bad

A desktop OS for tablets and a tablet OS for desktops, Windows 8 is guaranteed to disappoint nearly everyone

Microsoft Surface RT Reviews Are In - And They're Mostly Mediocre

As analysts said earlier this year, apps will make or break Windows RT - and right now there simply isn't a good supply of quality apps available. Probably the highest-profile app right now is Netflix; after that, the quality drops off sharply.

5 big things that baffle me about Microsoft Surface RT

I thought the company had a winner. But then it became apparent that there were two Surface tablets, one that runs full Windows and one that runs a weirdly shrunken-head version of Windows. This second version, called RT, won't run all the Windows applications we've come to rely on all these years.

Get Organized: Best Practices for Gmail

This edition of Get Organized, a weekly series, explains a couple of Gmail's signature features and explains how best to use them to keep your email account effectively organized so you can be more productive.

3 easy steps to a more secure iPhone or iPad

Apple's iOS has several weak spots that can instill a false sense of security -- unless you take these steps to fix them

Office Web Apps Update Now Available

Users will be able to edit and format Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote documents stored in Microsoft’s SkyDrive Cloud service from their mobile devices.

Task Management From Wunderlist Syncs Everywhere

In order to be truly cloud, a service has to be accessible everywhere at any time. Wunderlist seems to have every angle covered with a multitude of apps and software for various platforms. The best part is they actually work!

Apple’s Big Day…the iPad Mini is real!

Yes, the new Apple 7.9 inch Apple Mini iPad is here…well almost. You can preorder now and the new tablet will be delivered on November 2…and yes, it is called the iPad Mini. There is not much new about it that we didn’t already know…it is not a retinal display like the current regular size iPads and it has the new Lightning connector that was introduced last month for the new iPhone. Your will find all the details of the Mini in the first story.

But there were some surprises that we did not know about. First, they have discontinued the iPad 3 and replaced it with what is called the 4th generation iPad. The major difference is a faster processor…the A6 instead of the A5. Prices are still the same.

So am I mad about my iPad being obsoleted after only 7 months? Not really. The current iPad has all the speed I could ever use. Of course I would rather have the new one, but what I have was just fine before the announcement and is still fine now. Good Lord, do I sound like an Apple Fanboy now?

There were some other new and upgraded products introduced also, including the Mac Mini. So be sure and read story #2 for all the updates. What surprised me the most was no mention of the new iTunes. They announced it last month for release this month. I thought sure they would mention it today.

So what’s next? It’s Microsoft’s official release of the Windows 8 and Windows RT Surface tablet on Friday. Not much new there that we don’t already know about. I hope that folks who pre-ordered the RT Surface Tablet aren’t too disappointed when they discover all the things it won’t do.

So let’s get to it! –JRC

Apple iPad Mini -- it's real, and it has a new design

The tablet, which has been rumored for months, does indeed come with a 7.9-inch screen and starts at $329. All the details are here.

Apple's iPad mini event: everything you need to know

Here is a complete list of all that went on today at Apple's big show in San Jose. All the new computers, iPads and software.

Google's Research Shows Tablets Are For Games And Email, Mostly Used On Couch & In Bed

Google just published a new research paper that delves into the details of how tablet owners use their devices. Some surprising and yet not unexpected results.

Even Microsoft's closest allies are nervous about Windows 8

If Microsoft's long-time partner Intel can't muster up much enthusiasm for Windows 8, how are consumers expected to do so?

Forrester: Windows 8 Will Just “Stop The Shrinking”

Forrester Research analyst Frank Gillett predicts that Microsoft’s Windows 8 will get off to a slow start in 2013, but will take hold in 2014.

What is Windows RT? Redmond, We Have a Problem

As consumers around the world excitedly purchase Windows RT-based Surface tablets, many of them have no idea that these devices are utterly incompatible with all of the software and much of the hardware that they already own. Yep, Windows RT looks like Windows 8, but it isn't. If my email is any indication, and I believe it is, the majority of people out there have absolutely no idea what Windows RT is. This is a problem.

How to get less e-mail spam from Twitter

Here's a guide that breaks down Twitter's e-mail notification settings so you can decide how often Twitter will contact you about activity on your account.

Five Worst Companies for Customer Service

Some companies excel at it, but others—specifically major companies—fail more often than they succeed. This week we're going to look at five of the worst, and show you how to beat them and get the answers you need.

How to Set Up a Basic Productivity System

This post will show you how to set up a a basic personal productivity system that will cost you a small investment of your time.

Your quick guide to malware types

Think you know your malware? Here's a refresher to make sure you know what you're talking about -- with basic advice about what to do when you've been hit

My Head is Swimming with Dreams of New Toys

The next 11 days will be busy as the Big 3 computer giants release a plethora of new toys and software. On October 23, Apple will presumably introduce us to the new iPad Mini, their new 7” tablet designed to compete with the Nexus 7 and the Kindle Fire.

Then on the 26th, Microsoft will unleash Windows 8 on the world, along with their new Surface tablets running Windows RT (their watered-down version of Windows 8). I can see the lines forming now around the new Microsoft Pop-Up stores around the country.

On the 29th, we have two events scheduled…First Microsoft will introduce us all to their new Windows Phone 8. Then, Google is holding a major press conference to introduce us to…? It is probably centered around Android devices like a new phone or two and a new tablet. But it’s all guesswork at this point. 

Actually I am interested in all the products coming out. Specifically, I am morbidly fascinated by Windows 8 and Windows RT and am anxious to see how the general public accepts them. I am personally torn…1/2 of me wants Microsoft to succeed and the other half wants them to fail miserably for trying to dictate how we use our computers. And with their pricing so high on the Surface tablet, how will they succeed going head-to-head with the iPad?

What is my best advice to you concerning the new Microsoft products? The same as always…wait. No need to rush out and get it. Let’s see what problems arise when people get their hands on them…and what all the reviewers say. We’ve got plenty of time. -JRC

How Microsoft Surface stacks up against competing tablets

Microsoft’s Surface tablet lands amidst an increasingly crowded and diverse tablet market, one with a dominant leader in Apple’s iPad, fractured app ecosystems, and a wide range of sizes and prices.

Microsoft Surface Price Too High, Says Sterne Agee

With Microsoft charging $499 for an intro level Surface without cover, and $599 for the Surface with its keyboard cover, Microsoft is going to be fighting Apple at the high end, while leaving room for Google and Amazon to clean up on the low end.

Will 'normal' Windows users want a Start button for Windows 8?

SweetLabs joins a handful of other companies offering to bring the more familiar Start menu/Button back to Windows 8.

How to skip Windows 8 and continue using Windows 7

If you're perfectly happy with Windows 7 and skeptical about Windows 8, I have good news for you. You've got seven more years before you have to give it up. Here are the facts, figures, and dates to know.

Newsweek turns to digital-only publication

Newsweek will end its US print run on December 31st, after 80 years in print...future editions will be released under the moniker Newsweek Global, a subscription-based online magazine for tablets and browsers.

Price War! Best Buy and Target to Match Amazon's Prices

With the holiday season fast approaching, brick-and-mortar retailers Best Buy and Target pledge to match Amazon's prices. Get ready shoppers ... It's bargain time.

The All New iTunes 11 Is Almost Here

Within the next few weeks iTunes on your computer will be getting a long overdue makeover. The final piece of the puzzle should be out any day now. This major upgrade will help simplify what has always been a rather confusing and cluttered application.

Dropbox makes the easiest way to send photos

E-mail, Facebook, texting, etc. are all good ways to share new digital stills and videos; but they’re typically an image-by-image, select-and-send process. Dropbox can eliminate those extra steps with its Camera Upload option, available on Android and iOS devices.

Best Free Online Backup Sites

Do you know when the absolute worst time to think about backups is? It’s the moment when the tech support guy tells you your hard drive has died and your data is lost.

Password Manager Roundup

This week, I took a look at three password-manager apps for consumers: LastPass, by a company of the same name; 1Password , by AgileBits; and RoboForm, by Siber Systems. Each app stores all of your various information in one central place, where it’s protected by a single master passcode. Includes a video.

Surprise–Microsoft Wants to Be the New Apple

In my last blog, I chose to ignore all stories about Windows 8…just to talk about other things and give us all a break. Well, I can’t do that in this edition…there are just too many stories breaking. The release of Windows 8 and the Windows RT tablet is only 10 days away. As most of you are Windows users, you need the facts to determine if you are going to upgrade…AND, if you are considering a Windows tablet.

Today, Microsoft revealed the prices of their Surface tablets. And guess what? They are the same price as the iPad. Surprise!! So now you can decide which tablet to purchase as the prices are now the same. Or maybe you don’t want a tablet at all.

The clue to Microsoft’s new game plan came from Steve Ballmer himself. In a letter to stockholders, he described Microsoft as a seller of devices and services…which is the perfect description of Apple. They want to sell hardware and services (AKA software). But services can easily describe something you pay for on a regular basis…such as Office 13, which is moving to a monthly subscription plan. Hmmm!

But selling devices? That is something that has been left mostly to hardware vendors since the early days of Microsoft. I wonder how these vendors are feeling about Microsoft’s plan?

And how are you feeling about Microsoft’s new direction? I ‘m pissed, frankly. They seem to be treating millions and millions of desktop computer users a second class citizens. It looks like we don’t matter much anymore. I think they are wrong.

While I love my iPad tablet, it is nowhere near as good as my desktop for getting work done. Oh, I do use it for production on a daily basis, gathering stories for this blog for instance. But, I am not going to write this whole blog on it. For that, I want my desktop. No tablet can match a desktop for getting real work done.

Now, Microsoft wants to put a tablet layout in front of me even though my desktop has no touch capabilities. I have to go through extra steps to get to my work that I don’t do with Windows 7. Sorry Microsoft…you are dead wrong!

Even though today’s extra-long edition has a lot of Windows 8 stories, there are a number of other non-Windows stories that merit your attention. And, by the way, if you think I am wrong about Windows 8, I would love to hear your thoughts. -JRC 

Surface RT pricing puts Microsoft's tablet head to head with iPad

Word is out: we all knew Surface wasn't going to be a bargain-basement product, whether the RT or the Pro version. But Microsoft's chosen price point of between $499 and $699 puts it in direct competition with the iPad, today's premium tablet.

Windows 8 tablets are coming: Tablets for those already not buying tablets

Windows 8 is poised to hit store shelves in 10 days and along with that some shiny new tablets running the latest from Redmond. Problem is, while Microsoft hopes to crack the giant tablet market Windows 8 tablets are really aimed at current Windows users, not tablet buyers.

Just what is Windows RT, anyway?

The "lite" version of Windows 8 known as Windows RT remains the biggest unknown out of the myriad of changes coming to Microsoft's operating system. Here's our guide to what Windows RT is, how it's different from Windows 8 and WinRT, and what it all means.

Steve Balmer's Plan to Make Microsoft Just Like Apple

Balmer makes it clear Microsoft is no longer just a software and services company. It now makes software, services, and the hardware all that stuff runs on.

Microsoft: We Don’t Need Another Apple

Microsoft might end up jettisoning the one important differentiator that it has against monoculture competitors such as Apple and Google: the diversity of its ecosystem. And should Microsoft decide to go it alone across the board, and stop partnering with the companies that provide that diversity, all we’ll be left with is a third-rate copy of Apple.

The Windows 8 UI: How do interface and usability experts rate all the changes?

When Windows 8 debuts on October 26, users will be confronted with the most radical changes to the look and feel of Windows in nearly 20 years. The traditional desktop has been relegated to second-class status, hidden beneath Windows 8's new touch-centric Start screen. And that’s just the first confusing surprise that awaits long-time Windows users.

Windows 8 apps: The good, the bad, and the ugly

It takes some getting used to, but once you master tapping and swiping to get what you need the Modern UI is actually pretty slick. Still, for traditional desktops and laptops that lack touchscreen capabilities, the Modern UI just seems like a cumbersome extra layer.

Kindle Users to Get Refunds, Lower Prices on E-Books After Settlement

Good news Kindle owners: If you're the owner of an Amazon Kindle and you bought e-books from certain publishers in the last few years, you're getting a refund on past purchases, and future purchases will be a little cheaper.

Firefox 16 Review & Rating

Firefox 16 (actually 16.0.1) is now the prevailing version of Mozilla's independent, open-source browser. You might say that the update only adds new features for developers, but those in turn can mean new Web capabilities for ordinary browser users.

The Best Firefox Extensions and Add-Ons of 2012

Firefox has more ways to extend functionality than any other browser. Here are the best add-ons that you should be using.

Ballot Measures Made Simple Gives You Both Sides of the Argument on State Initiatives

The upcoming general election involves a lot more than choosing a president, and we can often overlook important state initiatives.

Five portable antivirus and antimalware tools to carry with you at all times

Sometimes the antivirus tools installed on the machine just aren’t enough. When that time comes, you’ll be glad you have one (or more) tools on your USB drive to help you out. I’ve found five such tools that could certainly get you out of a serious pinch. All of these tools are portable and work like champs.

No Windows 8 Stories Today…Sorry

I’ve decided to give us all a break today from Windows 8…not that there aren’t any stories out there about it…just that I choose to ignore them today. But, don’t worry, there will be more next week. With the official release date only two weeks away, we just can’t escape reality.

So for today, I have chosen to provide useful information that may improve your computing practices, or at the very least, provide some useful information…at least I hope so. So let’s get to it! -JRC

Microsoft's 'Do Not Track' Plan Is In Tatters As Advertisers Vow To Ignore It

The statement is the second overt sign that Microsoft's DNT signal will be widely ignored on the web and that users who leave it on will be tracked against their will.

Microsoft patches 20 bugs, including critical Word flaw

Microsoft has patched 20 vulnerabilities in Word, Office, Windows, SharePoint Server, SQL Server and other products in its portfolio, including a critical bug used to attack the company's own online services

Galaxy S3 Mini: Samsung's big new move

Samsung's newest smartphone with a smaller screen could give Apple's iPhone a run for its money. But the specs -- including the absence of 4G LTE -- aim the device more toward the mid-tier.

Chrome Extension Protects Privacy Against Google, Facebook & 1,000 Other Sites

In less than 10 minutes I had recalibrated my privacy settings and sent automatically generated email requests to delete my information from the sites PrivacyFix couldn't block. PS...this is now available for Firefox.

No need for desktop office suites when you can use Microsoft Office Web Apps for free

With Microsoft Office Web Apps you can use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote all from your browser without the need of the desktop application. With this app Microsoft is slowly migrating us over from desktop applications to web applications. Let's see if they did a good job.

How to Spot Truth in the Sea of Lies, Rumors, and Myths on the Internet

The internet is full of crap. For every piece of reputable information you'll find countless rumors, misinformation, and downright falsehoods. Separating truth from fiction is equal parts a mental battle and diligent research. Here's how to make sure you never get duped.

Exploring Windows’ Administrative Tools: Part 4

The Windows Task Scheduler can run almost any program automatically — at a time and in a way you set. Task Scheduler is part of Windows Administrative Tools, a suite of professional-quality, system-management utilities used to adjust and control many of the operating system’s essential functions and features. There are links to the first 3 installments, in case you missed them.

Tech tools to make grocery shopping easier

Instead of using the pen-and-paper method, try a smartphone app. I personally use Evernote for this, but there might be better solutions.

How to organize, showcase, and share your out-of-control photo collection

I’ve amassed more than 30,000 digital photos over the years. I shot most of them; others I scanned from prints gleaned from photo albums and family archives. I’d wager that 95 percent of them are junk—poorly composed, badly lit, over- or underexposed, people with their eyes closed, you name it.

Google documents modern history from Auschwitz to Dolce Vita in new web exhibition

From today, Google's Cultural Institute will play host to a collection of 42 web exhibitions. The collection covers a range of 20th and 21st century topics ranging from the holocaust to Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, and is heavily focused on the struggle for civil rights' in South Africa.

Govt. Violates Privacy; Motorola Lies; Microsoft Just Dumb

So, who do I get mad at first? Our lead story is about billions of dollars wasted on counterterrorism centers that produce useless information while invading our privacy. That gets me mad.

Then we have Motorola (owned by Google) promising Android upgrades to millions of cell phone users, then reneging on their promise. Now, that really gets me mad since I currently own a Motorola Android phone (not for much longer).

Then of course, we have the continued stupidity of Microsoft as they come out with an operating system few want. I should laugh about this one, except over the next couple of years, they will do everything they can to obsolete my current Windows 7. Now that really makes me mad.

Now for a good laugh…Microsoft has sent out 5 million take down notices to Google saying some Web sites are illegally distributing their software…sites like the BBC, CNN, and many other reputable sites. It appears their algorithm for finding pirate sites needs a little work. I wonder if I am on that list? PS: One of the sites they requested Google to take down was Bing, Microsoft’s own search engine. Google complied.

Dear Microsoft: Don’t you think its time for a whole new management team? The current batch seem oblivious to valid criticism and common sense.

Still, there are plenty of other good stories here that should be helpful and maybe even make you smile.  Onwards and upwards! -JRC

New Senate Report: Counterterrorism 'Fusion' Centers Invade Innocent Americans' Privacy and Don't Stop Terrorism

The Department of Homeland Security's 70 counterterrorism "fusion" centers produce "predominantly useless information," "a bunch of crap," while "running afoul of departmental guidelines meant to guard against civil liberties" and are "possibly in violation of the Privacy Act."

Android users outraged over Motorola's broken promise

Motorola had promised owners an upgrade to to Android 4.0, known as Ice Cream Sandwich, which would bring a host of new features and security updates. They lied. Instead they are stuck on 2.3 Gingerbread, an older operating system. Note: This kind of garbage is why I will never buy another Android product again.

Windows 8: An exceptional OS undone by dreadful marketing

In pure analytical terms, one has to wonder what went through the (fill-in-the-blank) (fill-in-the-blank) misguided brains of Microsoft's managers, analysts, and strategists when they decided to ditch the Start menu. Given that Microsoft has left so much other traditional functionality in Windows 8, the removal of the Start menu is a marketing decision only.

Windows 8 pirates: No noose is good noose

Are the BBC, CNN, and Wikipedia distributing illegal copies of Windows 8? Nope, it's just another example of the Copyright Cartel gone wild. Microsoft has sent nearly 5 million takedown requests to Google claiming that hundreds of sites are illegally distributing its software.

10 reasons why the desktop PC will live forever

While mobile gear is certainly convenient when you're trying to conduct business on the go, it's nowhere near as convenient as a desktop when you're trying to complete serious work. No, friends, the so-called post-PC world is not yet upon us.

Google, book publishers settle long-running copyright case

The Association of American Publishers and Google settle 7-year-old litigation. Google Library Project gets access to publishers' copyrighted books.

10 Amazing Google Earth and Maps Discoveries

Even though the average person can use these services to explore the planet, researchers and other scientific professionals use Google Earth and Google Maps as preliminary tools to analyze areas around the globe, uncovering some pretty amazing things we’ve never seen before.

Angry Birds Star Wars to reach our galaxy on November 8

Star Wars teams up with Angry Birds in a new edition in which the birds assume the traits of Luke, Leia, Han, and the rest of our beloved heroes.

Use This Nifty Utility to Find Out What is Accessing Your Hard Drive

Have you ever noticed your hard drive churning away and wondered what it was doing? Try the free utility called “What’s My Computer Doing?” and find out.

Your Gmail Account May be Compromised

Seems like our enemies in the Middle East are in full blown attack mode…this time to compromise Gmail accounts of ordinary folk like you and me. Funny I should read about this today as I just finished Mark Russinovich’s new novel, “Trojan Horse.” This book and his other one, “Zero Day” are all about cyber warfare involving the Middle East and China. Believe me, he knows of what he speaks and most of his material comes the world he knows all to well. He currently works for Microsoft.

But, there is some good information and tech tips in this edition. Trying to decide which new phone to buy. Well, we have reviews of iPhone 5 vs. the new Android Star, the Galaxy S3. And for those of you who don’t want to spend a lot of money, we have a story on the best free phones available.  And be sure and check out the story on how to save your eyes when using a computer.

So, let’s get it on!! -JRC

Middle East cyberattacks on Google users increasing

The New York Times reports that tens of thousands of Gmail accounts have been targeted by state-sponsored attacks.

Wireless shakeup: T-Mobile to merge with MetroPCS

Deutsche Telekom hopes that by combining the two smaller wireless providers they will be able to better compete against AT&T and Verizon Wireless.

Deathmatch: Apple iPhone 5 vs. Samsung Galaxy S III

Is Apple's svelte, skinny iPhone 5 strong enough to fend off the challenge from the big, bold Android muscle phone?

The Best Free Phones

Looking to score a new phone without cracking open your wallet? Take a look at the top free phones we've tested on AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

Google Is Now A Bigger Company Than Microsoft

Simply put, what Google does is more important to and reflective of how the masses use technology today than what Microsoft does.

List of Google products

In case you ever wondered, here is a complete list of all Google products. It includes all major desktop, mobile and online products released or acquired by Google Inc. You may be surprised by how big the list is.

Remember ultrabooks? Yeah, no one else does either

Ultrabook sales are going to be pretty disappointing this year, according to a report from IHS iSuppli...And that's bad news for Intel and the PC makers who use its chips. IHS slashed its estimates for shipments of the thin-and-light notebooks to 10.3 million this year, down from its previous forecast of 22 million.

Windows 8 vs. Windows RT: What's the Difference

Windows 8 RT — the RT is short for "Runtime" — is completely new and completely different. Which one will you want to have on your next PC, your Windows 8 tablet such as Microsoft Surface or your current Windows PC? Let's explore the options.

Learn the secrets of eye-friendly computing

I can think of few bigger computing hassles than destroying your eyesight by using a computer. And yet if you sit in front of a screen for long stretches (who among us doesn't these days?), you're almost certain to experience some level of eyestrain.

SlimCleaner (Free Download)

SlimCleaner pioneered the use of Cloud-based reporting and actual user feedback in designing its system cleaning and optimizing tools.

Windows 8 Sucks…But So Do Politicians

It’s October, boys and girls. Big events are coming our way this month…Windows 8 final version will be released to an unsuspecting world; strong rumors abound that Apple will introduce its 7” tablet in two weeks; more new Amazon Kindles and Kindle readers will be available for purchase; and, of course, we are going to be hammered with election stuff the entire month.

To focus first on Windows 8, a couple of stories here strongly hint that it will not be a success, at least initially…as if most of us couldn’t figure it our for ourselves. Microsoft has failed to make the case to us why we should update from Windows 7. Plus they have made major PR blunders along the way.

Most tech writers, including me, feel that the all-important Windows 8 desktop is the same as Windows 7, only you have to go through a lot of hoops to get to it. I agree. Windows 8 may be great for portable devices with touch screens (frankly I’m not sure it will be as I bet they will be wildly overpriced), but it is not something I want on my desktop computer…or my laptop.

In this edition, besides a lot of helpful information, I have included a thought-provoking article by Rob Enderle titled, “The United States of Google.” In it, he talks about random Google searches on both are Presidential candidates. The Obama searches come up mostly positive, while the opposite is true of Romney searches. Was there a deal done between the White House and Google?

Now lest I be attacked by a howling mob of angry Democrats, please be aware that I am a member of the “None of the Above” party. I frankly don’t give a damn who wins these elections as it won’t make any difference for our futures. As John Lennon once said, “Meet the New Boss, same as the Old Boss.” I just thought that the article was interesting and worth a read.

So enough of this…on with the show! –JRC  

Poor pre-launch showing plagues Windows 8

With just weeks before the public launch of Windows 8, users are five times less likely to be running the new OS than they were Windows 7 at the same point in its countdown, an analytics firm said today.

Even Windows 8 early adopters prefer Windows 7 by two to one

Their list of weaknesses in Windows 8 started with price: 35% followed by system requirements: 26%; incompatibility 25%; Windows freezes 20%; and only then does the interface show up with 18%.. Members really do feel that Windows 8 will be over-priced and they're finding lots of hardware driver and software incompatibility problems.

Apple's Cook: Use Google, Bing, Nokia -- anything but Apple Maps

CEO Tim Cook took the rather unusual step of issuing a public mea culpa via the Apple.com home page and suggesting that, until Apple gets its mapping act together, iFans should use competing products from Bing, MapQuest, Google, or Nokia.

Kindle Paperwhite Review

I curled up with the Kindle Paperwhite and put it through its paces. Is it the best e-reader ever? Does the display dispatch the nearest competition? And most importantly - did I finish any books I started? If you want to know the answers, read on for my full review. (includes a video)

The United States of Google

Based on a simple search test and my belief that there is a quid-pro-quo agreement either in place or implied between Google and the administration, I think there is a high probability that Google is influencing search results to favor Obama. Read on and see how.

How camera makers are getting their design groove on

A wave of experimentation is sweeping the camera industry as it grapples with the second phase of the digital revolution. Be careful: today's bold design could be tomorrow's evolutionary dead end.

Search ninja part 5: must-have, productivity-boosting Firefox add-ons

If you want to increase your productivity online and make the most of your Web browsing experience, then make sure these add-ons are a part of your Firefox install!. Plus check out his other searching tips.

The Best File-Syncing Services

DropBox may be the best-known name in the file-syncing game, but it's far from the only one. Find out which of the many alternatives is right for you based on price, supported devices, and security.

Microsoft SkyDrive: Your ultimate starter's guide

In this guide, we'll show you how to set up SkyDrive on your PC, how to access your SkyDrive account from different devices, and how to use a few tips and tricks to get the most from this free service.

Top 10 ways to Ditch Your Clutter and Digitally Organize Your Life

We've all got a few cabinets, drawers, and shelves filled with clutter that seems outdated: CDs, paper, photo albums, DVDs, and books take up a lot of space. Here are 10 ways you can take the plunge into a digital, clutter-free life.