As the headline says, its pretty quiet around the world of tech. Nothing very earth shattering going on. Oh, there are things going on, but not very much that would be of interest to us tech non-nerds.
That is who this blog is for…people with computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones who don’t have a lot of knowledge about how they work, but just want to get stuff done. So while there might be a lot of interesting work done in the field of coding Linux applications, you will not read about it here. This blog is about how you can effectively use technology for your benefit…with the occasional look at how emerging technologies may affect our lives today and in the future.
Most of you are Windows users, at least on your desktop and laptops, so you you get a fair amount of stories about the present and future of Windows and other Microsoft products. Many of you, besides using Windows, also use iPads, iPods and Android devices. So I provide you with information to help you be more productive with those products.
So that is my Mission Statement in two paragraphs. You may also notice from time-to-time that I don’t hide my feelings very well. I am not what you would call politically correct and I will attack and praise most anything I think deserves it. Its one of the benefits of being a senior citizen (besides 20% off at Wienerschnitzel).
So with all that said, here is today’s tech blog. Enjoy. -JRC
News and Opinions
The $99 Amazon Prime arrives, with questions in tow
The idea behind Amazon’s subscription service is that it's worth the annual fee for the convenience and low prices. CNET takes a look at how much money customers are really saving.
Goodreads users can now sync Amazon purchases with their accounts
One incentive for linking the accounts, Goodreads says, is that “more books added to your Goodreads shelves means better recommendations to help you find more great books to read.
Obama creates exception for NSA to exploit internet security flaws
President Obama has given permission — in the event of "a clear national security or law enforcement need" — for the National Security Agency to exploit security flaws that it discovers without alerting companies or the public of the bugs.
Office Online (Free) Improves with Tons of New Features
Microsoft this week announced various improvements to Office Online, its free web-based office productivity experience. The firm has added new features to Excel Online, Word Online, PowerPoint Online, and OneNote Online
Smartphone Theft in the U.S. Nearly Doubled Last Year
Sadly, a potential solution to rising smartphone theft is still a year away.
Computer Tips and Tricks
Emergency repair disks for Windows: Part 2
Part 1 of this two-part series told how to create a Windows repair disk that boots a failing PC and provides tools that might fix what’s ailing Windows. Part 2 tells how to use a repair disk on all PCs — including those locked down with Win8′s Secure Boot — and also gives some advanced tips and tricks.
Google Calendar now suggests nearby locations when you add an event
Google is now pushing a significant update to its Calendar app, that adds the ability to select the precise location where an event or meeting will take place.
The Best Password Managers
In the wake of the Heartbleed bug, changing your passwords is a must. Here are some of our picks for the best password managers to keep track of them all.
The Coolest Things You Can Automatically Add to Google Calendar
Google Calendar is a wonderful tool. While many people may know that you can import pre-made calendars with lists of various holidays in them, there's a ton more cool stuff you can do with the service that's either baked right in.
The Best Cloud Storage Solutions
Having your data stored offsite in the cloud makes it accessible from anywhere without the hassle of maintaining your own local storage and file-serving systems. It makes all the difference in a disaster, too.
Mobile Computing
Google Launches Chrome Remote Desktop App for Android
Google has launched a Chrome Remote Desktop app for Android, which lets you remotely control your computer using your smartphone or tablet.
Getting started with the Google Camera app for Android
Google has put a Camera app of its own in the Play store for nearly all Android users to install.
33 great tips and tricks for iOS 7
Whether it’s the first time you’ve picked up an iPad or the seventeenth time you’ve pulled out your iPhone today, there are probably still some iOS 7 features and functionality that you’re not familiar with.
5 Virtual Assistants That Are More Productive Than Siri
There are several third-party apps that are stronger for personal productivity and organization, especially given that much of what Siri performs is pretty consumer-focused. PS: I personally use Calendars 5 and it is fantastic!
11 things you need to know about Windows Phone 8.1
Here's your cheat sheet for the newest features and availability of Microsoft's newest mobile operating system
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