Microsoft Announces Office for iPad. Is It Too Late?

Microsoft took center stage today with a new product, Office Suite for the iPad. It was also the public debut of Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s almost new CEO. I think he did a credible job.  While Office Suite for iPad grabbed all the headlines, they also introduced another new product that may turn out to be more important than Office. More on that in a minute.

I watched the Office for iPad demo live on Microsoft’s News Website and was very impressed.  It was not just Office ported over to the iPad…it was an Office built specifically for the iPad. Since the event, I have read several reviews of the product (one of which is listed below). All the reviews were extremely positive, one might say glowing.

Office for iPad is free to download now. It includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The free version allows you to use Office in basically a read-only mode. If you subscribe to Office 365, you can create and edit documents like you do on your computer.

The question is: will it be a hit in the marketplace? I think consumers like you and me will give it a lukewarm welcome, unless you subscribe to Office 365.  We consumers have lived so long without Office on our iPads that we found credible substitutes.

However, I believe among business and corporate users, this will be a huge success. Employees are using their tablets and smartphones more and more to do company business. And more companies are allowing their employees to do it. So, Office will rapidly be adopted on the iPad by corporate employees as they already use it on their desktop and laptop computers. But there is one other reason why it will exceed.

The second announcement today was the introduction of the Enterprise Mobility Suite. Without getting into too much detail, this product will take a comprehensive approach to enabling corporate IT teams to manage devices, identity, access, security and Software-as-a-Service. The suite will work across Android, iOS and Windows. In other words, this product will allow mobile devices to be managed by the company so that company information is safe on portable devices. As I said, I think this announcement was more important than Office for iPad. Remember the vast majority of Microsoft’s income comes from its Enterprise products.

OK, it is time for me to get off my soap box and encourage you to read all of the stories here (or at least the ones that might interest you). There is a lot more than just Microsoft here. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Microsoft launches Office for iPad

Microsoft is using a "freemium" model for Office for iPad. The base suite, which includes Word, Excel and PowerPoint, is free. Users who don't add an Office 365 subscription to the offering still can do some basic tasks. But to do more advanced tasks -- users will need to pay for an Office 365 subscription.

Amazon follows Google with cloud price cuts

Cloud computing giant Amazon has followed the lead of rival Google by slashing the prices of its cloud services by as much as 65%.

Why...and when net neutrality is important

Netflix and Comcast now have an agreement allowing Netflix to link directly to Comcast’s servers. Similar agreements are in the works, involving Verizon and many other ISPs. Proponents of net neutrality believe all should have equal access to the Net, but the debate isn’t nearly as cut-and-dried as you think.

Why Zuckerberg Bought Oculus For $2 Billion - Business Insider

Facebook shocked the world yet again with an unexpected acquisition. It announced that it was paying $2 billion for Oculus Rift, a virtual-reality gaming company. Oculus makes a headset that delivers an immersive experience. It blows away the people who use it. Includes a video.

Here's what's in the 2014 Google Graveyard so far

As Google introduces new things, the company has made room by ditching others. Here's a look at what Google has waved goodbye to so far in 2014.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

36 Hours Only: Get A $100 Photo Editor For Free

PhotoDirector 4 provides a friendly interface intended to help make photos look professional, with easy-to-use photo management and sharing options. And it is free until midnight, March 28.

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 2.0 now Available for Download

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a dependable work-horse when it comes to eradicating malware, and definitely a recommended app for anyone’s security setup. This week Malwarebytes has released a new stable version that features a host of improvements, new features, and a redesigned interface.

What Desktop Email Clients Still Do Better than Webmail

Webmail is great, portable, and accessible everywhere, but desktop email clients have a ton of great benefits too. From encryption you can trust to easy backups, there are a ton of great features you can only get—or get easily—with a desktop client. Here are some of the best ones.

How to Schedule Emails in Gmail for Sending at a Later Date

Have you ever wanted to write an email now but send it a later date and time? Maybe you are sending birthday greetings and would like the email message to be delivered on the exact day.

Add useful features to the Windows 8 Start Screen

Start Screen Unlimited is a Windows 8 program that adds a few useful features to the Windows 8 Start Screen, like date and time, a link to the Windows control panel, and more power options. It also adds a Google search bar directly to the Start Screen.

 

Mobile Computing

Microsoft Office for iPad Review

Office for iPad has been written from the ground up for Apple's device. And the only thing holding it back, really, is Apple's antiquated mobile OS. This new app is very impressive.

Fresh Meat: 10 new Android apps worth checking out

New apps need lovin’ too, right? Every day there are thousands of additions to the Google Play Store, but many go unnoticed. Our weekly column highlights new apps with fewer than 100,000 installs.

Amazon Cloud Drive Photos App Updated From v1.9 To v3.0

It's easy to forget that Amazon has cloud storage products on Android now that Google has started pushing the envelope with Drive and Play Music. Amazon does offer its own photo backup app connected to a free 5GB Cloud Drive block. The app wasn't great, but now that's being addressed with a significant update.

10 Tips for Browsing With Chrome on Android, iPhone, and iPad

Chrome is a powerful browser, whether you’re using a desktop PC, smartphone, or tablet. These tips will help you browse faster and take advantage of Chrome’s features on the go.

How to Turn On & Use the Safari Favorites Bar on the iPad

One of the cool features of Safari that's not turned on by default is the Favorites Bar - a handy area for one-tap access to your favorite websites, just below the top address bar. Here's how to enable and use the Favorites Bar on the iPad.

Special Edition: OneNote or Evernote or Both

As I told you last week, Microsoft announced that OneNote was now free for everybody, including MAC, iOS, Android, and of course Windows users. And it is also cross-platform, meaning anything you save in one device shows up on the others. Meanwhile, Evernote has been free for a long time and is also cross platform. So which is best and which should you get?

Well, think about it. Since they are both free, why not get both? Each has their strengths and weaknesses, but by having both you get the best of both products. I have been using both for years now and they are my two most used pieces of software (with the possible exception of Photoshop and Lightroom). All the important information about my life and technical information are saved in both Evernote and OneNote. Both are fantastic filing systems for the bits and pieces of your life that need to be saved.

In a special 4th section of this edition, you can read about both of them, comparisons and tips on how to use them. Let me give you my bottom line…for copying pages from the Web, Evernote wins hands down…especially if you use it with the browser add-on “Clearly.” This dynamite app removes all the garbage that you find on Web sites and gives you distraction-free reading. You should use it for all your browsing. And there is a button for sending the page to Evernote…and it almost always files it in the correct category.

But for everything else, I use OneNote. With its three levels of tabs, there is no better organized way to keep track of your life. I make a lot of notes to help me with projects and and of course, my daily journal complete with photos. If you think linearly like me, you probably use the outline method for ideas and planning. OneNote does outlining.

Anyway, these are just some of the reasons why I use both programs on a regular basis. And I think you will find them valuable in your own life, which is why I put together this special section.

So, I hope it is valuable for you and can make a difference in your life. You will also find some other valuable news, tips, and tricks in this edition, so why not get started. -JRC

 

Computer News and Opinions

Google Now Arrives in Chrome for Windows and Mac

This means Google Now notifications will finally be available to desktop and laptop Chrome users, in addition to Android and iOS users.

How to Spring Clean Your Gadgets

As a new season is upon us, there's more to consider than just cleaning your house. Here's a round-up of tips and tricks for cleaning all the gadgets in your life.

This is no way to buy a Windows PC

There's no shortage of Windows PCs and tablets from which to choose, but there's still no good way to make the choice.

The Internet tsunami: 8 big insights on what it disrupts next

The disruptions that the Internet has unleashed on society have only just begun. Learn what the next stages will bring over the coming decade.

Google unveils Android Wear, its modified OS for wearables

Google is partnering up with HTC, LG, Samsung, and others for the first phase of its Android Wear wearables push: smartwatches.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Tricks for a Better Gmail Inbox

Gmail users who feel overwhelmed by their inboxes can use these handy tricks for filtering mail and regaining control of their email.

Microsoft OneDrive Review & Rating

It's got a brand-new name and Microsoft's OneDrive is the most capable, flexible, and affordable of any cloud service for the storage, syncing, and sharing of files.

How I Get to Inbox Zero in Outlook

Outlook is like most Microsoft products, extremely powerful almost to the point of being overly complex. If you compare it to Gmail many people dislike it. Gmail does one thing and it does it well, Outlook is much more complex.

20 Most Reliable Windows Backup Programs For Free Download

Some of free backup windows programs are better in terms of functionality, reliability, interface as compared to costly paid products. FYI: I use Syncback and have done so for years. Very reliable

Windows 7 anti-malware products compared

Independent test lab AV-Test Institute compared 34 anti-malware/Internet security products for home and business users on Windows 7 64-bit. Trend Micro came out on top for business; Bitdefender, Kaspersky and Qihoo for consumer.

 

OneNote or Evernote

Lifehacker Faceoff: OneNote vs. Evernote

Now that Microsoft OneNote is free for Mac and Windows, the price and cross-platform barriers to this much beloved note-taking tool are gone. Let's take a look at where each app shines, and why you might want to use one over the other.

OneNote vs. Evernote: A personal take on two great note-taking apps

The two applications now both work on the same platforms (including mobile OSes such as Android, iOS and Windows Phone), sync your notes to your devices and include Web-based versions. But they also have some very distinct differences. So which is better?

Evernote Tips and Tricks

Here are several tips on how to put Evernote to its highest and best use. For beginners and experts

OneNote 2013 - For Dummies

Last time, we told you how to download OneNote 2013 for free. Here is an excellent list of how-to's for OneNote that will tell you how to get started and how to solve specific problems.

Send Email to OneNote

With last week's expansion of OneNote as a platform, Microsoft has added a nice new capability: You can now send email messages from your inbox to your OneNote-based notebooks. PS: You can do the same thing with Evernote.

OneNote Clipper

As part of this past week's OneNote-palooza, Microsoft has released a cool new tool called OneNote Clipper that lets you save, or "clip," any web page to OneNote. Then, you can access this information from OneNote on any of your devices.

 

Mobile Computing

How You Leak Your Privacy Every Day (and How to Stop)

Thanks to the NSA, everyone all of a sudden cares about their privacy more than they used to. But most of us aren't doing a good job of locking it down. Here are just a few of the things we all tend to do that leak private information

55 Apps That Can Make You More Productive

The 55 programs, mobile apps, plugins, and services in this list are among my favorites for helping anyone be more productive, from office workers to students.

This Android app will change the way you use your phone

Link Bubble has the potential to change the way you use your phone or tablet. In short, it acts as a companion to your regular mobile browser by intelligently handling all the links you open from within other apps.

Android, Apple, or Windows: How to Choose the Right Tablet

Whether you opt for an Apple iPad, or one of many Androids or Windows slates, finding the right tablet isn't always a snap. Here's what you need to know before you hit the store.

10 of the Best Android Browser Apps

We took a look at some of the biggies, and some of the not-so-biggies on Google Play to see what’s what, and what features you could be missing out on by sticking to your browser guns.

What? No Bad News? How Can I Rant?

Isn’t it nice that for once, I don’t have to tell you some bad news. Even better, you don’t have to listen to me go off on something. I supposed one could call our story #5 on Comcast bad news, but I have already done a rant on that so I will give it a pass here. But you should read the story.

Last time, I told you how Microsoft released OneNote 2013 for free…for everyone. If you haven’t downloaded it yet, you should. Today, I have included a link to the Dummies Book site last lists a series of articles on the uses of OneNote…plus how to do them.

There are two stories about Firefox: One is about their latest update, while the other tells why they stopped work on a Metro Version of their fine browser. Can you guess why? And their rivals at Gmail are now encrypting all incoming and outgoing mail. That is great news.

There are many more good stories here so why don’t I just let you get on with your reading. Thanks again for being here. -JRC 

 

News and Opinions

Avast: Windows XP users already attacked 6 times more often than Windows 7 users

You read that right: XP users are 6 times more likely to get attacked—and that's while the operating system is still supported.

IBM to set Watson loose on cancer genome data

IBM announced that it would be using Watson, the system that famously wiped the floor with human Jeopardy champions, to tackle a somewhat more significant problem: choosing treatments for cancer. In the process, the company hopes to help usher in the promised era of personalized medicine.

Firefox 28: Mozilla patches 20 Firefox flaws, plugs Pwn2Own holes

Mozilla has patched five vulnerabilities pointed out last week at the Pwn2Own hacking contest, where the hackers were awarded $200,000 for their collective efforts. Update now.

Mozilla kills 'Metro' Windows 8 Firefox plans, claims interest has been 'pretty flat'

Firefox-maker Mozilla announced yesterday that it’s ending work on the “Metro” version of its browser (the former name Microsoft used for its Windows 8 tablet interface) — mainly, because nobody seems to be interested.

Comcast and Time Warner Cable: The upshot for us

While the raging debate over the advisability of the merger focuses primarily on TV, ultimately the far larger question will be our future access to the Internet.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Get a Grip on Your Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn Accounts

With even just a few online social profiles, your digital life can quickly get out of hand. Here are some tips for taking control of your social media accounts.

OneNote 2013 - For Dummies

Last time, we told you how to download OneNote 2013 for free. Here is an excellent list of how-to's for OneNote that will tell you how to get started and how to solve specific problems.

Every Gmail Message You Send Will Now Be Protected by Encryption

Good news, security lovers! Google just announced that Gmail will be all encrypted all the time. More specifically, every single email you send or receive will use an encrypted HTTPS connection, regardless of which device you're using and which network. Even public Wi-Fi is okay.

What will be New in the Upcoming Windows 8.1 Update 1

Microsoft will be releasing a new update for Windows 8.1 in April. The company inadvertently made a finished copy of the updated system available for a brief time several days ago. The changes are not major but should make mouse-and-keyboard users happier.

Zoom to the Moon’s North Pole with this Incredible New Gigapixel Map

OMG – breathtaking! That was my reaction when I clicked on this incredible new interactive map of the moon’s north polar region. Be prepared to be amazed. It took four years and 10,581 images for the LROC to create it.

 

Mobile Computing

Customize Android's icons with Nova Launcher

Installing a new icon pack adds a fresh coat of paint to your trusty phone or tablet. Here's how to do it in a few short steps.

Most Popular To-Do List Manager: Any.Do

The "best" to-do list app for you is a highly personal choice, but some do stand above others. In a reader's poll at Lifehacker, here are the top finishers in this category.

Google lets you launch Android camera by voice command

With the Google Search App on Android, you can just tap the microphone or say 'OK Google,' then 'take a photo' or 'take a video.' Google will launch your camera app in the preferred mode.

Skype For Android Hits Version 4.7, Brings Major Under-The-Hood Redesign That Results In Substantial Battery Savings

In short, the team has carefully crafted an update for Skype for Android that allows it to run in the background with virtually no impact on battery life.

You Are Your Phone

Your phone has so much of your information that it may as well be you. Make sure you protect yourself and your phone from thieves, malware, and other mobile threats.

OMG: Microsoft OneNote Now Free for Everyone!

This may be the first shot across our bows from the new CEO at Microsoft that things are going to different from now on. Microsoft has released OneNote 2013 to everyone for free. That includes Windows and MAC users. It is already free on iOS and Android. For years, OneNote was only available as part of the Microsoft Office Suite. Now, it is also a stand alone application available for free for everyone.

I have been using OneNote and its competitor “Evernote” for years. OneNote is, by far, my most used software application. It is always running on my desktop. And by using it in conjunction with OneDrive (formerly SkyDrive) all my notes are available to me at all times on all my computing devices.

Like Evernote, OneNote is a place to store all your notes and important information in one place. I use it for photography notes, computing notes, my journal, sports schedules, travel items, book lists, outlines, and many, many other items.

I think it was one of the best ideas Microsoft ever had. I love it as it uses a three-level tab system to store all my information…making it easy to find things. Items that you don’t want seen by anyone else can be put in special sections and protected by passwords. Now, I can even e-mail items directly to OneNote.

To be honest, I use Evernote to make copies of Web pages I wish to keep. I think it does a better job of copying those pages, especially when used in conjunction with their free “Clearly” browser plugin. I also use it for my shopping lists for grocery items so my list is on my phone when in a grocery store.

But for everything else, I use OneNote. Once you see how useful it is, you will not want to be without it. So download a copy today…its free! (See Story #1).

Have fun! -JRC

 

News and Opinions

It's Official: OneNote is Now Free for Everyone

The free version is ad-free and is not a trial version; it's the real thing. You can download OneNote 2013 for Windows from OneNote.com. Available for MAC too. No ads!

Apple resurrects the iPad 4 at $399, retires the iPad 2 at long last

For its second tour of duty, the iPad 4 will set you back $399 for a 16GB Wi-Fi version or $529 for a cellular version, $100 less than the equivalent iPad Air models and equal to the 16GB Retina iPad mini.

U.S. Set to Give up Its Last Power Over the Internet

An agreement between the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is set to expire in 2015 and will not be renewed if a changeover plan is developed.

Web inventor Tim Berners-Lee calls for digital "Magna Carta"

Sir Tim Berners-Lee described his belief that increasing government and corporate influence have strained the open architecture of the Web, jeopardizing the independence, neutrality, and freedom upon which the system was originally built.

Google is encrypting search globally. That’s bad for the NSA and China’s censors.

The development is the latest — and perhaps most unexpected — consequence of Edward Snowden’s release last year of National Security Agency documents detailing the extent of government surveillance of the Internet. Google and other technology companies responded with major new investments in encryption worldwide.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Three Windows Shortcuts Every Beginner Should Know

If there's one thing that'll make you faster and more productive on a computer, it's keyboard shortcuts. There are a lot of keyboard shortcuts beginners should know, but here are three specific to Windows that can make getting around a lot easier.

Add speed reading to Chrome, Firefox

Interested in reading faster while you're online? Check out these Chrome and Firefox extensions to make it happen.

Which Browser is Best? Chrome vs. Firefox vs. Internet Explorer

They're all free, fast, and compliant, but each of today's Windows Web browser choices has its own particular capabilities and features that may best suit your needs.

15 tips for staying safe online and preventing identity theft

What are some simple tips, tricks and best-practice methods of keeping yourself and your digital identity safe from hackers?

This Map Lets You Find Every Street, Place, and Thing With Your Name

If you've ever secretly believed that you deserve a place named after you, then you have come to the right corner of the internet. This handy little app finds every street, river, garden, park, castle, or cave with your name already on it.

 

Mobile Computing

Five must-have apps for March Madness

Whether you’re a casual fan or a hardcore hoops aficionado, some mobile helps can help you enjoy the mania. Use them to build your bracket, compete with your friends, and follow all of the action all the way to the Final Four and championships. For iOS and Android.

Microsoft updates its free remote desktop apps for iOS, Mac, Android

Microsoft is updating its remote desktop applications for non-Windows platforms, but still has yet to make available a Microsoft-developed version for Windows Phone.

iPhone & iPad Apps Gone Free

Want to try great apps without hurting your wallet? We’ve selected 20 iPhone, iPad and iPod touch apps that are now free.

The Best Android Tablets

For a long time, it was a challenge to find decent Android tablets to test. But as Google continues to refine its mobile operating system, we're seeing a steady flow of high-quality Android tablets.

iPhone, iPad battery draining faster on iOS 7.1? You're not alone

Users have taken to Twitter and forums to complain that Apple's latest iPhone and iPad software update, iOS 7.1, is draining their device's battery faster than it should be

How I Got Lucky with Amazon

Sticker shock: Amazon is raising its price for Prime Membership to $99…a $20 increase (see story #3). It goes into effect for all new and renewal subscriptions starting on 4/17. I got a letter from Amazon today informing me of the price increase…but my renewal rate will be at the $79 price. Why? Because my renewal date is 4/14.  How lucky is that?

I am not surprised they raised the price. They have not increased their rate since it started nine years ago and I am sure there have been some massive shipping increases. I use every benefit of Prime, including borrowing Kindle books every month and watching Amazon videos on my Roku box. There are thousands of free movies and TV shows available for free. So, I will be paying the $99 price…in 14 months.

But, I learned of a sneaky way that Prime Members can still get the $79 price. First disable the Amazon Prime auto-renew for your account…then purchase a gift membership at the current price (before 4/17) for Amazon Prime. But instead of having the gift card delivered the day you order it, schedule delivery for the day after your Amazon Prime subscription expires. Pretty cool, heh?

Our first two stories are a little more serious. In a detailed investigative report, the folks at First Look expose some of the dirty tricks the NSA is planning to infect millions and millions of computers around the world. These guys are getting nasty, especially to its own citizens. Unbelievable that all this is being allowed!

Our second story details how the idiots at Target stores were warned immediately by their own security system that they were being hacked and credit card numbers being stolen. They ignored it for two weeks until the feds stepped in to stop it. Target has definitely proven that they don’t deserve my business…or yours. I won’t go in there again, even with cash.

So that is my story and I am sticking to it. I hope you find something of interest in this edition. -JRC

News and Opinions

How the NSA Plans to Infect 'Millions' of Computers with Malware

Top-secret documents reveal that the National Security Agency is dramatically expanding its ability to covertly hack into computers on a mass scale by using automated systems that reduce the level of human oversight in the process.

Target's security system reportedly caught massive hack, but was ignored for weeks

According to a report from Bloomberg Businessweek, the company's state-of-the-art security system detected the hack as soon as it started — and did nothing. Instead, it took two weeks and a warning from federal investigators to plug the hole.

Amazon Prime price jumping to $99 in the US

Amazon is about to raise the price of its Prime membership service for the first time ever in the US, bringing the cost up to $99 per year, $20 above where it's been for nearly a decade. The price change goes into effect on April 17th, and those signing up or renewing their service before then will still be able to pay the original, less-expensive price for a final year.

Is OneNote Going to be Free for Everyone?

According to a reliable report from Mary Jo Foley, Microsoft is prepping a version of its OneNote note-taking solution for the Mac, and it will make that application available to Mac users for free. Even better: The full-featured Windows desktop application version of OneNote will be made available for free as well.

Tech giants have hundreds of billions in offshore accounts

Apple, Microsoft, Google and Cisco hold a large proportion of the $254.9 billion held in their foreign subsidiaries in US Treasuries, according to securities filings.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to run Google’s Android OS on a Windows PC

Little-known fact: By using a virtual PC, you can set up and run a free, fully legitimate copy of Google’s Android on a standard Windows system. This gives you a way to safely experiment with the Android operating system — or to re-create the layout of an Android device you already have.

The Best Online Lectures and Talks to Boost Your Brain

"If you have a little time to spare, there are tons of interesting, informative, and actually useful talks and lectures all over the web that you can enjoy for free. The best can teach you a new skill, inspire you to do something new, or just expand your horizons.

12+ Tips and Tricks to Work Faster in Microsoft Outlook

Love it or hate it, Microsoft Outlook is still the de facto email client in many places. It's been a while since we took a look at good old Outlook, so here are some of our favorite tricks well worth revisiting to increase your productivity in this all-in-one email, calendar, tasks, and notes program

Finally, Download All Your Google Mail And Calendar Data Easily

Finally, Google recently introduced a feature that allows you to download all of your data from any of 16 separate Google services.

Google Drive Gets A Big Price Drop, 100GB Now Costs $1.99 A Month

Google today significantly dropped the prices for its Google Drive online storage service. The first 15GB of storage remain free, but 100GB now costs just $1.99 per month instead of $4.99.

 

Mobile Computing

What's New in Apple iOS 7.1?

It comes with several noticeable changes over the previous release, as well as a few differences that won't be apparent unless you know to enable them.

File your return from anywhere with these top tax apps

Save time and get that refund faster with these premier tax apps for iOS and Android.

Coursera Releases iPad App with 600+ Free Courses

Coursera has released a beautiful native iPad app that provides access for learners on the move. The internet continues to change education and freely available MOOCs are just one example of a thriving open community.

Best Free iPhone Apps

As usual, the writer seeks apps that make a real difference in how you use your phone.

How to set up your iCloud email account on Android

The good news is it is perfectly possible to get your iCloud email address up and running on your Android device. It's pretty straight forward but does involve a little effort on your part.

Snowden Speaks! Thousands Listen.

Edward Snowden, the former NSA employee who informed the world about secret NSA spying, made his first public appearance since fleeing to Russia. His revelations set off a firestorm of protests internationally and here in America when we found out we are all under surveillance by America’s most secret spy agency. He appeared via a video conference at the annual South by Southwest Festival in Austin Texas where thousands crammed into an auditorium to watch and listen. He also answered question posed to him on Twitter.

Snowden’s revelations has sparked controversy here in America. Is he a traitor or a hero…or something in between. Personally I think it is somewhere in between. While I admire him for his bravery and thank him for his revelations about spying on Americans, I worry that he might have given too much information to those people in the world who are trying to destroy us.

It reminds me of the Nixon era when Daniel Ellsberg released the Pentagon Papers that started the slow avalanche leading to the resignation of a President and the end of American involvement in Vietnam. He was vilified back then, but turned out in the end to be a hero. It is people like Snowden and Ellsberg that start the ball rolling for big changes in our own government at the cost of their own futures.

In a related story, Senator Dianne Feinstein of California revealed that the CIA tapped into Senate computers to steal documents related to their own oversight. If true, this is not good. It appears that our own intelligence bureaus are out of control.

In spite of all this bad news, there is some good information here to help you with your computing life. So why not get started. –JRC

 

Computer News and Opinions

Snowden at SXSW: The NSA set fire to the future of the Internet

In his first extended comments to the public, Edward Snowden calls on the development community at South by Southwest to create more usable privacy and security tools.

Feinstein: CIA searched Intelligence Committee computers

"The head of the Senate Intelligence Committee sharply accused the CIA of violating federal law and undermining the constitutional principle of congressional oversight as she detailed publicly for the first time how the agency secretly removed documents from computers used by her panel to investigate a controversial interrogation program.

A new Windows 8.1 update tries to win back desktop diehards

With its second major update to Windows 8 in less than 18 months, Microsoft is trying to ease the pain for Windows users who are befuddled by the Windows 8 interface on conventional PCs. Here's what you can expect. Will it be enough to calm the troubled waters?

Inside DuckDuckGo, Google's Tiniest, Fiercest Competitor

DuckDuckGo is a search engine offering direct answers to people's queries, rather than merely delivering a list of links

Microsoft patches 23 Windows, IE and Silverlight vulnerabilities

Windows XP's next-to-last Patch Tuesday saw four updates to it. Office 2003 is also going off support, but no updates were released today for it

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Stop Using Your Inbox as a To-Do List

Using a separate task manager, one that ties in closely with your email, can help you spend less time sifting through your inbox, and more time getting your most important work done.

How to ditch a laptop for the iPad

Even though laptops are getting thin and light, some folks are determined to get rid of the laptop and go all in on the iPad. These guidelines will help determine if that's feasible for you

Five Offbeat and Oddball Websites to Make You Smile

Not everything in life has to be useful. Sometimes just a little fun is called for. Here is a selection of websites to amuse (or bemuse) you when you want a break.

TaxACT Free Online Tax Filing

Do your 2013 taxes for free on-line. It's true! FREE to prepare, FREE to print, FREE to e-file - no income or age restrictions. Get the fastest tax refund possible with free e-file. Handles simple AND complex tax returns — supports 1040, 1040A, & 1040EZ, and includes all e-fileable IRS forms to handle all filing statuses & life situations.

Three practical reasons to use your browser's private mode

Modern browsers are chock full of powerful hidden features, but one of the most overlooked features is incognito or private mode. If you've heard of this feature, chances are you know it, rather infamously, as "porn mode. Nothing could be further from the truth.

 

Mobile Computing

Apple releases iOS 7.1 for iPhone, iPad with bug fixes, new features

The latest version for iPhones and iPads landed on Monday, with new features, user interface tweaks, and a number of bug fixes that aims to appease those who have yet to upgrade.

Google Now Launcher explained: what you need to know

Now anyone can re-googlify their Android experience with Google Now .

10 things your iPad can do with a little extra help

On its own, the iPad is capable of accomplishing a great number of day to day tasks. With a little help from an add-on accessory it can do quite a bit more.

41 Hidden Siri Features

After using Siri for a few year’s we discovered a collection of hidden Siri features that only come to light when you get past the basics of setting an alarm and making a phone call.

Tablets have taken over: here's what comes next

The tablet is a relative newcomer on the mainstream computing scene, but everyone is trying to reinvent it. Here are some of the changes to come.

A Few Notes About Computer Security

You may have lately noticed an increase in stories about computer security…or a lack there of. Only two days ago we had a story about 300,000 routers being compromised. Over the holidays, we heard about millions of credit cards numbers being stolen at Target and other stores. Then there were the thousands of computer owners who were blackmailed for money after hackers scrambled their computers. The list goes on.

In light of the recently concluded RSA security conference, I thought it was time to feature a few stories about computer security, both for our desktops and laptops…and our portable devices.

Our first story is about the conference itself and what the author learned. Highly recommended to get an overview of our dangerous digital world. And you find more stories including a rundown on the best anti-malware solutions and other tips to keep you as safe as possible. The Internet has become a slippery slope for all of us, so you best take steps to protect yourself.

We have a few good stories and tips not involving security, so read on and become a little more knowledgeable. –JRC

 

News and Opinions

Notes from the RSA Conference on security

Long gone are the days when PC security mostly meant installing anti-virus software and keeping it updated. Today, the digital assault on our money and privacy is expanding and changing at a truly mind-boggling pace.

PC shipments to keep falling through 2018

Although shipments worldwide were slightly higher than expected last year, IDC's forecast shows things taking a turn for the worse.

Skype rolls out to Outlook.com users worldwide

To enable Skype integration with your Outlook.com account, first download and install the necessary plugin. After the installation completes, you're prompted to open your Outlook.com account.

Flipboard buys Zite from CNN to quash a rival

Zite will fade away as a standalone app, as Flipboard folds the rival's recommendation tech into its own news reader. This makes me sad as I find Zite to be more usefule the Flipboard.

Target's data breach tab mostly covered by insurance so far

Target's data breach related expenses in the fourth quarter were $61 million, but $44 million was covered by insurance. The company said it doesn't have a read on costs going forward.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

The Best Free Antivirus for 2014

There are plenty of free choices, and because they are free, you can take the time to consider what's the best free solution for your situation.

10 Things You Need to Know About Digital Security

The SecurityWatch team shares the ten most important lessons they learned at this year's RSAC security conference. You can't afford to ignore any of them.

The Best Tax Software for 2014

It's time to e-file your 2013 taxes; whether you're willing to pay or you want a stripped-down free service, we've got the right solution for you.

9 must-do's if you must stick with Windows XP

Without updates after April 8 Windows XP is expected to fall prey to any number of zero-day attacks for which Microsoft will provide no defense, but there are some things die-hard XP users can do to make their machines safer.

Microsoft Provides Free Data Transfer Tool to XP Users

This tool will copy your files, music, videos, email and user profiles and settings from your old PC to your new device, transferring across your home or work network, and even enables Windows XP users to customize exactly what they want to bring over to their new device.

 

Mobile Computing

Get Organized: Make the Most of iOS 7

Exploring iOS 7? Since you've got your iPhone on your mind, why not take a moment to clean it up, help preserve the battery, and take a few other steps to keep your device in good working order.

Verizon has most reliable cellular network in test, AT&T has the fastest

A nationwide test of the four major US carriers' cellular networks puts Verizon Wireless and AT&T in a near-tie in most categories, with Sprint and T-Mobile lagging well behind their bigger rivals.

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for Android

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is an app that will make using your device safer. With a recent update to the app, now you can tailor the level of protection and how and when you are notified about the process.

Evernote Gets A Big Update To v5.8 With Handwriting Support

Evernote is one of the premiere note taking apps on Android and it's getting a big update today. Version 5.8 improves support for notes made on other platforms and brings some new features to the Android app.

The 10 Best Tablets

Looking for something to bridge the gap between laptop and smartphone? These ten top-rated tablets fit the bill.

Global Router Attack…It’s for Real

Our first story just broke today. More than 300,000 routers world-wide have been hi-jacked by criminals. I have published stories here before about some wireless routers being vulnerable to attack and takeover. It didn't seem quite real at the time, but now we now it is real and serious.

While most of the focus of these attacks is in Europe and Asia right now, you can bet it is coming our way. What can you do? Not a great deal as the attacks focus on internal vulnerabilities of the routers themselves. But a few months ago, I published an article on the 8 things you can do to secure your router as best you can. I suggest you read it right away and do what the article suggests.

Also, last week many journalists and bloggers (including me) condemned Comcast for forcing Netflix to cut a deal for better throughput and more money. Quite frankly, we didn’t present all the facts…probably because we did not know them. Netflix did the deal to cut out a middleman who was slowing down the bandwidth (too complicated to explain it all). In fact, this deal with Comcast will save Netflix a lot of money. They should shortly be cutting the same deal with a couple of other major carriers. My apologies for not presenting all the facts. 

There are some other good articles also included here that might just solve a problem or two for you, so I suggest you take a good look at this edition. Thanks for being a reader. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

More than 300,000 wireless routers hijacked by criminals in global attack

The attackers are altering the DNS configuration on these devices in order to redirect victims’ DNS requests and subsequently replace the intended answers with IP addresses and domains controlled by the attackers.

Roku Streaming Stick vs. Google Chromecast: how do they stack up?

Roku's new Streaming Stick is clearly aiming to take on Google's Chromecast, but both streamers have their strengths and weaknesses. Here's how they compare so far.

IE10 Falls Below IE9, Firefox Down, Chrome Up

An interesting, in-depth look at how today's browsers stack up against each other in terms of use

Microsoft hints at new apps for Office suite

Microsoft executives signaled that Microsoft is working to add new apps to its Office suite, as well as versions tailored for new platforms.

Leading to the gigabit promised land?

Commentary If the United States wants to be a leader in the 21st century information economy, we need to stop debating the past and start figuring out the future.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Avoid the Trash Heap: Great Uses for an Old PC

If that laptop or desktop is from the last 10 years, you'd be surprised by just how much life you can get out of it.

How to keep your PC secure when Microsoft ends Windows XP support

After a legendary dozen year run, Microsoft will stop providing security patches for Windows XP on April 8, 2014. Without Microsoft’s protection, all those WinXP PCs will have targets painted on their hard drives.

Microsoft finalizes Windows 8.1 Update 1, improved desktop features available next month

While the update is ready, it’s not clear exactly how Microsoft intends to brand the final version. The company announced Update 1 as a ‘spring’ update for Windows 8.1 during a press event at Mobile World Congress last week.

Google lets PC users search the web using voice in Chrome

Users of the Chrome Beta on Linux, Mac and Windows will be able to open a new tab or visit Google.com and say "OK Google", followed by what they want to search for.

Skype for Outlook.com rolls out worldwide with new HD video call support

Good news, social butterflies! Nearly a year after Microsoft first added Skype functionality to Outlook.com on a preview basis, the communication tool is officially rolling out to inboxes throughout the world—complete with new HD video calling capabilities.

 

Mobile Computing

Android snagged 62 percent of tablet market in 2013

Android has become the biggest tablet operating system with 62 per cent of the market. In 2012, Google’s OS trailed Apple’s iOS by a margin of about 8 million tablets, but by the end of last year had turned that into a 50 million-unit lead

Best Twitter apps for iPad: Twitterrific, Echofon Pro, HootSuite, and more!

When it comes to Twitter we think all of the reviewed apps here are winners in their own right, it just depends how you use Twitter.

Pixlr Express - Edit Your Photos Like a Pro

If you're looking for a high quality and comprehensive photo editing app for Android and iOS, look no further than Pixlr Express - photo editing. It's great that such a highly regarded company is providing a useful tool for free with no ads. Judging by its popularity in the app stores, this is the only photo editor you'll ever need.

Mobile World Congress (MWC) Wrap up

Here are the highlights of all the mobile products you missed seeing by not going to Barcelona last week

Think mobile phones are boring? You’re missing the point of technology

But the most exciting thing about technology today is not the gadget...it’s how much, collectively, they have changed the world in recent years, and how soon they will have a much greater impact for an ever-widening number of people across the world.