It’s a beautiful time of year here in Tucson. Temps in the high 70’s and low 80’s. I am loving it, to be sure. What has all this to do with tech? Absolutely nothing. So let’s move forward with the tech news.
A quick update on my new Nexus 7 tablet vs. my iPad 3. I do like my Nexus 7 as it is a pure Android/Google experience and not tainted by any other manufacturer’s biases and not dependent on any carrier’s whims on upgrades. I current have version 4.3 of Android, but will shortly be upgraded to 4.4 (KitKat). Some of the built-in Android apps are just wonderful while others are just so-so.
But, if I had the choice to own a Nexus 7” tablet or an Apple iPad 7” tablet and money was no object, I would choose the iPad. It is just easier to use and I find myself using my iPad 10” tablet more than the Nexus 7. But, of course, the iPad Mini tablet is nearly twice the price of the Nexus. In my opinion, it is not worth twice the price.
I like the Nexus for its size and weight and the screen is beautiful. The iPad is heavier (which is why I find the new iPad Air so appealing), but also has a wonderful retina screen. The Nexus seems to have a battery draining problem that I have yet to fully solve. The battery drains a fair amount while its not in use. Not long ago, I didn’t use it for 24 hours and it was dead when I tried to activate it. That is not an issue with the iPad.
Also, most of the Android apps are made for smart phones and not tablets, while Apple clearly distinguishes between iPhone and iPad apps. But, in all fairness, most phone-base Android apps look fine on the tablet (but not all).
I hope this helps you if you are thinking about purchasing a tablet for yourself or as a Christmas gift. I will update again after I receive the new Android 4.4. So, onward and upward…now its time for you to peruse all the stories I have gather for you in this edition. Enjoy your weekend. -JCR
News
Blockbuster throws in the towel
The DVD-rental chain will close down its remaining US stores and curtail its DVD-by-mail rental service.
Google bans Windows Chrome extensions found outside the Chrome Web Store
Google says the decision to transform Chrome into a gated community stems from security concerns, in an echo of the official reason that Microsoft moved to the Windows Store model to distribute modern UI apps.
Microsoft improves its free online Office
Where's Office for the iPad? Maybe you're looking in the wrong place. Today, Microsoft released its latest batch of Office Web App updates, pushing its free offering well past the feature set offered by its rivals.
IE11 for Windows 7 Globally Available for Consumers and Businesses
Microsoft says this new version is about 30 percent faster than its nearest competitive browser on Windows 7 and in terms of raw JavaScript performance, it’s 9 percent faster than IE10.
Tips
15 Free Google Helpouts to Get Expert Tips for Your Everyday Problems
Google Helpouts is a new service that connects you live to real experts who can help you with a variety of problems. Here's a look at some of the best and most useful Helpouts we could find.
How to Harden Your Browser Against Malware and Privacy Concerns
Preventing your computer from communicating with potentially dangerous sites, and helping to avoid malware, plays a very important role in increasing your online privacy. Thus, protecting your privacy really does require that you also increase your security.
Get Organized: Managing Digital Family Documents
Going paperless takes some forethought, especially in deciding how to manage household paperwork, from bills and monthly statements to deeds and titles. Here are some of the best services that help you do it right.
Fake Chrome, Adobe Flash updates
Be on the lookout for fake updates to Chrome and Adobe Flash using high-quality techniques.
Top 10 Clever Google Search Tricks
Google is a more powerful tool than most people realize. You can get much more refined searches with Google's built-in tools, advanced operators, and third-party extensions.
Help Guard Your Online Privacy with this Nifty Firefox Add-On
"Although you can take various measures to block trackers, it isn’t always clear who you have or haven’t blocked. There is a new Firefox add-on called Lightbeam that makes it easier to see just who is tracking you."
Portable Computing
10 Tips to Conserve iPad Battery Life
Apple claims a pretty impressive battery life for the iPad - up to 10 hours of use on a full charge. Here are a few tips to make that number even larger.
The 100 Best iPad Apps
Fill your iPad or iPad mini with the best software available in the Apple App Store
Google Now updated for iOS
Google Now's been bringing all kinds of handy new features to Android in recent months, and now its time for iDevice users to get a slew of new functions too. Included are notifications, reminders, new cards and hands-free voice controls
The five things you need to know about Android 4.4: KitKat
The latest version of Google's Android Linux-based operating system is out (sort of). Here's what you need to know about it today.
Amazon Prime members can now get new Kindle books for free
With its new Kindle First program, the retail giant has come up with another way to lure people to Prime.
Microsoft Updates Its Outlook.com Android App With Better Syncing, Storage, Colors And More
If you are an Outlook,com and Android user, this update will contain at least a few things that you like. You can now sync all your mail to your device, plus more.
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