In the last issue, I published a story about support ending for Windows 7. I think I should clarify what that means and how it might affect you. Microsoft generally offers mainstream support for five years after the release of an operating system. This includes feature updates, security updates, and performance enhancements.
On January 13, 2015, this so-called mainstream support comes to an end. That means they won’t be offering any updates and you cannot call Microsoft for support without paying. But don’t panic. Microsoft will continue to supply security patches until sometime in 2020. That is what most of us care about at this point anyway.
In April of 2015 (or thereabouts), Microsoft will release Windows 9 (or whatever they call it). Supposedly, it is designed to woo Windows 7 users back into the upgrade fold. And if true to form, it probably will. By that I mean every other operating system that the company releases is a dud…followed by a real winner. Windows 8 was the dud after the success of Windows 7.
And according to Gartner, 2015 will be a revival year for the desktop and laptop PC’s (see story #3), just because it is time for lots of people and companies to upgrade hardware. In spite of what you may have read here and in other places, the PC is not dead. It is alive and well on millions of desktops (maybe billions). And if Windows 9 is a good one, that will definitely spur desktop sales.
There: Now you have a complete picture of what to expect in the future. There is much more to this edition than the future of Windows, so read on and enjoy. Have a great weekend! -JRC
Tech News and Opinions
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Roku beats Apple TV -- again -- on usage, purchases
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Computer Tips and Tricks
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Five Computer Security Myths, Debunked by Experts
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What is the System Reserved Partition and Can You Delete It?
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Clip the web with me@onenote.com
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Mobile Computing
Mobile security: Apps to protect Android devices
There are hundreds of free and paid security apps for Android phones and tablets. But many of those offerings are of uncertain quality. Here’s a sampling of some of the best software for keeping Android devices free of malware, managing passwords, locking up your data, and more
iPhone or Android: it's time to choose your religion
Life will surely be sweeter once every gadget you own relates intelligently to every other, but to get there, you'll have to decide where your loyalties lie. Your smartphone preference will dictate your choice of tablet, TV, car, watch, and even fitness tracker.
Reduce the time it takes to charge your device
This quick and simple tip will help you charge your Android, BlackBerry, iOS, or Windows Phone device faster.
The 10 iOS Apps You've Never Heard Of (But Should Use)
With 1.2 million apps in Apple’s iTunes store, there are plenty of unsung heroes—apps that are worth your while, but most likely have escaped your attention.
Best airport companion apps for iPhone
From terminal maps to flight delays to lounge and parking information, these are the very best airport companion apps for iPhone!
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