Everything is New! New! New!

Well maybe not everything, but many of the most important apps and OS’s in our lives are. Here is a quick rundown of everything new that has happened in the last 24 hours:

1. iOS 8.4 was released for iPads and iPhones.

2. An update for Apple iMac’s OSX was released.

3. A new version of iTunes was released for MAC’s and Windows.

4. The new Apple Music kicks off today which is what precipitated the 3 updates listed above. Free for 90 days.

5. Microsoft released what is probably the last test build of Windows 10 before the final release of the OS in one month.

That is a lot to digest for even the most diehard nerd. And I didn’t even mention the update to Apple’s GarageBand that adds new drum beats for Hip-Hop Music. But let’s cover the important updates one-by-one.

As mentioned above, the iOS update to 8.4 is mostly about Apple Music and iBook's. There are some other fixes included. The new Music App is all about Apple Music. If you want it free for 90 days, you have to click the button that pops up. There is more about the new iOS and Apple Music below in the Mobil Computing section

As for the update for OSX, it is mainly a technical update that fixes a lot of networking issues. I won’t go into detail.

The new iTunes for iMAC and Windows incorporates Apple Music into the program. Again, you have to opt in for the 90 days of free music. But you have to remember to opt out before September 30 if you decide you don’t want to pay for it. I will have an article on that in the next edition.

As for the new Windows 10 test build, I have only just begun to play with it. It is quite polished and fun to use. I have only been able to make Cortana voice searches and dictation work part of the time, so I will have to play with that some more. The new Edge browser is part of the system now and Internet Explorer is not. You can still get IE in the Windows Store if you want it.

It did fool me for a few minutes as the logo for Edge and IE are almost identical. At first I thought they had forgot to include it, but when I clicked on what I thought was the IE logo, up came Edge. Then, upon further review, I realized the logo was just a little bit different. In all honesty I really like the Edge browser, much more than IE. I will be anxious to hear what other new users think when they finally get Windows 10.

Even though I use mostly MAC applications, I still use my Windows PC and Windows on the MAC running Parallels. In fact, this blog is being written on my Windows 7 PC using Live Writer.

So, that is a brief rundown of what happened yesterday and today. Will have more about all these changes in the next edition so stay tuned. Time for me to go play. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Microsoft's Windows 10 build 10158 brings Edge browser improvements, UI polish

Microsoft is hurtling toward the release of Windows 10, pushing out Build 10158 on Monday to early testers. The new build provides yet more clues as to what the OS will look like when it ships at the end of next month.

 

Follow-up: Samsung to stop blocking Windows Updates "within a few days"

After being caught out silently disabling Windows Update on selected systems, Samsung has committed to ending the practice "within a few days."

 

Google's search practices come under scrutiny from leading academic Wu

Tim Wu, author of The Master Switch: The Rise and Fall of Information Empires, argues in a paper that Google is knowingly degrading its search results to favor its own properties.

 

7 of the Biggest PC Hardware Myths That Just Won’t Die

Don’t buy into all the myths out there. They could lead you astray when you’re buying a new PC, building one, or just upgrading the hardware you have right now.

 

Edward Snowden Files Reveal NSA And GCHQ Operated To Subvert Antivirus And Security Software To Spy On Users

The National Security Agency (NSA) and its British counterpart Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) are not just infiltrating cell phone networks. They are hacking into the very thing that protects us from surveillance too.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

What to do when your email address sends spam

Spam is going out in your name to everyone you know. A few precautions can keep this from happening again.

 

6 things to consider when choosing a streaming-music subscription

Need help getting started with all-you-can-stream services like Spotify and Apple Music? This primer fills you in on the questions to ponder before you sign up.

Best Free Windows 64-bit Software

This list of the best software for 64-bit Windows has 54 sub-categories with 81 products consisting of 64 native 64-bit applications and 17 compatible 32-bit applications...and its all free

 

How to Use OneNote Templates to Be More Organized

If you’ve already integrated OneNote into your workflow, making full use of templates can help you super-charge your usage. For those of you not yet using it, there are plenty of reasons to try OneNote.

 

25 Hidden Chrome Features That Will Make Your Life Easier

As more services migrate to the cloud, browsers only reinforce their new role as multi-function boxes of digital magic.

 

Mobile Computing

Apple Music And iOS 8.4 Now Available

Apple has finally entered the streaming music game, with the launch today of Apple Music. The new service is available as a built-in part of its iOS 8.4

 

Apple Music FAQ: Everything you need to know

Here's what Apple Music is, what it's not, how it compares to other services, and what you'll be able to find on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or PC.

 

Microsoft's supercharged presentation app arrives on iOS

Last year, Microsoft expanded its Office 365 productivity suite with Sway, a service that gave users a simple way to create and publish content on the internet. Then it was only a Web app. Now it is a stand-alone app for iPad and iPhone.

 

11 travel apps to start summer vacation planning now

No matter where you're headed, these iOS and Android apps can help you get there and find things to do when you arrive.

 

iPhone 6 resale value higher than previous models, analyst says

The heavy demand for Apple's iPhone 6 lineup is surfacing in the resale market with higher relative prices seen in both the US and China.

Samsung Deliberately Blocks Windows 10 Upgrades

If you own a Samsung computer or laptop and you can’t seem to get the Windows 10 Upgrade Icon on your taskbar, it is because Samsung blocked it…and didn’t tell anyone. It was a Microsoft employee trying to help out a Samsung/Windows customer that discovered that Samsung deliberately installed software to stop the Windows upgrade.

Samsung also now blocks the regular Windows Update feature that brings you the latest fixes for Windows 7 and 8...apparently on some laptops. This puts Windows users at risk, leaving them exposed to security holes and bugs according to an independent Microsoft support engineer. This is an outrage, no matter how you look at it.

Now, a little background. I own a Samsung Laptop with Windows 8.1 installed. I can safely say that this computer is the worst computer I have ever owned…and it was this computer and Windows 8.1 that was the final straw towards my move to Apple. It was and still is, a piece of junk that has been close to being tossed into the nearest garbage can on several occasions. I don’t use it now since I purchased an Apple MacBook Pro laptop. But I do try to keep it to date.

A few months ago, I wiped it out and installed a clean version of Windows 8.1 that I downloaded directly from Microsoft. It was free of crapware, which is why I did it, not to mention the fact the computer ran poorly . Well, guess what? It did not work well…in fact it was terrible! I had no choice but to wipe it out and reinstall the Windows 8 that came with the computer…complete with crapware! So, if you own a Samsung computer, you have to use their supplied software. And it runs badly!

But back to the story at hand. I have 3 computers running Windows, including the Samsung… and it was the only computer that didn’t get the upgrade logo. Last week, I told you about a small script that, when run, would put the upgrade icon in the task bar. I ran it on the Samsung and it worked. Now, because of my past experience with updating software on this computer, I am very worried that Windows 10 will also run badly.

Samsung had no right to secretly block the Windows 10 upgrade. They remind me of Sony a few years ago that secretly installed a rootkit to block people from supposedly pirating their music. My advice to you and to myself is never buy a Samsung product of any kind. May they burn in hell for all they do to screw consumers.  

Thanks for letting me rant. In spite of Samsung, there are some good stories and tips here that will be of great help to you (I hope) and your computing life. Be sure to read the last story about the myths surrounding smartphones. I learned a few things I did not know. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Samsung Laptops Are Quietly Disabling Windows Update

In disabling Windows Update, the Samsung software is of course behaving like malware. And the consequences of this change, which are made without the user’s knowledge, could be dire.

 

The Internet is getting faster than ever but the US still lags behind

Akamai's latest survey shows the Internet is picking up speed globally and in the United States, but the US still lags behind the top countries.

 

Stolen US government passwords leaked across Web

A CIA-backed startup has discovered login credentials and passwords for 47 US government agencies littered across the Internet -- leaving federal agencies potentially at risk of cyberattack.

 

US Navy Pays Millions for Extended Windows XP Support

The US Navy last year entered into a Microsoft Custom Support Agreement (MCSA) so it can continue using Windows XP past that OS’s support expiration.

 

Google strikes at Apple Music with free streaming

Google is hoping to distract you from Apple Music's impending launch with a new streaming plan that won't cost you a penny. Available on desktop and mobile platforms, the service lets you enjoy a whole host of curated playlists supported by ads.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Best techniques for the safe disposal of drives

The design of today’s solid-state drives has made classic data-wiping techniques ineffective. But there are sanitizing procedures that will effectively render sensitive data on SSDs — and other rewritable storage devices — unintelligible.

 

The Best Free Antivirus for 2015

Relying on Windows's built-in antivirus for protection is a big mistake. Luckily, you can get an upgrade without paying a cent.

 

Microsoft is Updating Office Online

Among the changes are new text formatting features for Word Online, object formatting for PowerPoint Online and new viewing experiences for both Word and PowerPoint Online.

 

How to remove bloatware

Bloatware is annoying at best; at worst, it's malware like Lenovo's Superfish that puts your system at risk. Here's how to scrape the bloatware barnacles off your shiny new Windows PC

Google finally makes 'Undo Send' an official feature of Gmail on the Web

As its name suggests, Undo Send gives you a set period of time after dispatching an email to change your mind — so once you’ve clicked “Send” you’ll see an option to reverse it on your screen for between 5 and 30 seconds.

 

Mobile Computing

How to take sharp smartphone photos

Struggling to get your smartphone photos looking sharp? Here are a few ways to ensure your mobile photography is crisp rather than mushy.

 

Verizon Named Fasted Mobile Network Carrier of 2015

Verizon beat rivals AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile in the magazine’s annual nationwide tests, which found all four major networks have ramped up their speeds in recent years.

 

T-Mobile will let you upgrade your smartphone anytime you want

But there's a catch: You have to commit to a new smartphone as part of the new upgrade program. Also, only a select number of flagship phones are available for an upgrade.

Microsoft Office for Android is now available for everyone

After launching a version of Office for Android tablets in January, Microsoft's productivity suite is now out of preview and widely available for Android smartphones. As before, the app is nearly identical to its attractive iOS counterpart.

 

7 of the Biggest Smartphone Myths That Just Won’t Die

Smartphones have only been mainstream for less than a decade, but myths have still built up over time. Some of these myths have been around for years and just won’t go away...like closing apps on an iPhone will speed it up...not true.

Did You Apply for a Federal Job? Now Your Screwed Too

The relentless heat continues in southern Arizona and the relentless incompetence of the US Government grows worse by the day. The latest revelation finds that the personal data of anyone who applied for a govt. job is now in the hands of the Chinese govt. I did a big rant in the last edition against the idiots running America who let this happen, so I won’t subject you to another one. The first three stories here will get your blood boiling without any help from me.

In other news, Microsoft continues to stick its foot in its mouth. I did not include those stories here, so I will just explain it. Last week, Microsoft announced basically that anyone who wanted Windows 10 could have it for free. This week, they took that back and said that users had to be running the Windows 10 Insiders Preview to get Windows 10.

But then it gets worse. Last week, Microsoft said that anyone running the Windows 10 Insiders Preview would get the final version of Windows 10. But wait…that is not quite true. This week, Microsoft said that people running the Insider’s Preview don’t get a free version Windows 10. You only get a limited edition version of 10 that expires when the next Windows upgrade comes. In other words, you must continue to be a tester for updates to use Windows 10. But all updates have an expiration date. Remember, Windows 10, even the final version coming in July, is not finished. More features will continually be added. 

So, bottom line, if you don’t continue to test updates for Microsoft, you will lose Windows 10. So we are back to Square One…only people running Windows 7 or 8.1 get the free upgrade to Windows 10. The folks in Redmond are even better than Bill Clinton at changing their stories. Sigh!

I will let you take over from here. With all the bad news, I should let you know that there is some good information here to help you with your computing lives. So take heart and forward on. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

It gets worse: ​Federal OPM hack affected up to 18 million

In addition to current and former employees, it appears the records of people who had applied for government jobs were also revealed

 

Attack Gave Chinese Hackers Privileged Access to U.S. Systems

"This was classic espionage, just on a scale we’ve never seen before from a traditional adversary,” one senior administration official said. “And it’s not a satisfactory answer to say, ‘We found it and stopped it,’ when we should have seen it coming years ago.”

 

Why the next World War will be a cyberwar first, and a shooting war second

Opinion: The US already has lost the first battles, and may not have the national will to defend itself in the inevitable global conflict to come. David Gewirtz looks at the geopolitical implications of cyberwarfare.

 

EU Demands Sweeping Changes to Google Search

Put simply, Google has been found to be violating EU antitrust laws by abusing its monopoly power in Internet search to hobble competitors and harm consumers, many of whom use Google as their gateway to the Internet. Google has over 90 percent usage share in most of the EU.

 

Apple now says it will pay artists during Apple Music free trial

After being publicly smacked down by music's biggest star, Apple is changing its tune. Late Sunday night, Apple responded to the open letter that Taylor Swift posted earlier in the day, revealing that Apple now plans to pay artists, labels, and publishers for streams during Apple Music's three-month free trial.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Six Quick and Simple Tricks for Fixing Windows Problems

Sometimes a problem with Windows that seems baffling has a really simple fix. Simple, that is, when you know the trick. Here are some common problems that can have quick solutions. These tricks may not always work but they are so easy to apply that they are worth knowing.

 

When Windows refuses to eject mass storage: 5 ways to safely remove a USB drive

Resist the urge to yank out the drive, unless you enjoy corrupted files. Try one of these solutions instead.

 

How to Hide Cells, Rows, and Columns in Excel

There may be times when you want to hide information in certain cells or hide entire rows or columns in an Excel worksheet. Maybe you have some extra data you reference in other cells that does not need to be visible

 

When are expensive cables worth it?

It's almost always a waste of money to spend more on HDMI, USB, optical digital and speaker cables, not to mention DisplayPort, DVI, Ethernet and VGA. But are there any exceptions to the rule? Maybe.

 

Use your TV as a computer monitor: Everything you need to know

Just because HDTVs look a heck of a lot like computer monitors doesn’t necessarily mean they can replace computer monitors. Or does it? Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about sticking an HDTV on your desk.

 

Mobile Computing

Microsoft Demotes Lumia Smartphones As iOS Takes Priority

Nadella has quietly re-invented Microsoft with a new strategy suitable for the current connected world

 

Best Free iPhone Apps: 9 paid iOS apps on sale for free

These nine apps would normally cost you a combined $43 to buy. For a limited time, however, they’re all completely free.

 

Apple Essentials: 5 ways to backup your iOS device

There’s probably some irreplaceable data on your iOS device right now. But don’t worry. There are some different ways to back up your device in case of a catastrophe, or even just to make it easier when upgrading.

 

Dropbox's revamped Android app adds faster photo storage, quicker search and more

Dropbox will offer Android users a revamped app this week, with a new look and many new features.

 

Fresh Meat: 10 new Android apps worth checking out

Every day there are thousands of additions to the Google Play store, but many go unnoticed and never receive the attention they deserve. We’ve shown in the past that this community can discover great apps and propel them to new heights.

Apple News…it Only Looks Like Flipboard

I may have got it wrong. The new Apple News app that will be part of the new iOS 9 will be curated by human editors. And it will feature articles from major newspapers like the NY Times as well as respected on-line publications. Of course, it still might be a crappy app…we will just have wait until the Fall to find out. But with the on-going slow death of real journalism, this might be something to watch.

In other news, I love the fact that the FCC is going to fine AT&T $100 million for lying to its unlimited data customers and slowing down their speeds when they used too much data. Its time to throttle these scumbags for ripping us off on a continual basis.

There is more news and good info below. It is currently 108 here in Tucson, so its too hot to write anymore. Hope you have a wonderful Father’s Day weekend. My son is taking me to the Padres/D’backs game on Sat. where it will be 114. The good news that the Chase Field roof will probably stay closed for the game. It’s the walk to and from the hotel that will be the killer! -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

FCC to fine AT&T $100M for deceiving customers over unlimited data plan

The agency says AT&T did not adequately inform its unlimited-data customers that it would throttle service when they used too much data.

 

Apple hiring human editors for News app

Apple seeks human editors for Apple News, its new Flipboard-like app that will display stories from publications like Wired, The New York Times, and BuzzFeed.

 

An '80s-era Amiga controls the heating for an entire school district

All 19 schools of the Grand Rapids Public School District depend on a nearly 30-year-old Commodore Amiga 2000 to automate their air conditioning and heating. It communicates to the other schools using a pokey 1,200 baud modem

Cardinals Face F.B.I. Inquiry in Hacking of Astros’ Network

Investigators have uncovered evidence that Cardinals officials broke into a network of the Houston Astros that housed special databases the team had built.

 

FCC votes to subsidize broadband internet for low-income households

Tthe commission voted on the matter, approving the addition of internet subsidies to the Lifeline program that already offers both phone and prepaid wireless.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

You’re Not Backing Up Properly Unless You Have Offsite Backups

So-called “offsite backups” will protect your important files from catastrophic events like fires, floods, and robberies of your home or office. Files stored in just one physical location are vulnerable

 

Google shuts down new Chrome Bookmark Manager, goes back to previous version

That Bookmark Manager simply wasn’t ready to hit the market. It was slow, confusing, cluttered and flashy. It just made no sense to have it on a browser that is known for speed and simplicity, which is the complete opposite of what this page was.

 

What you should know about the Windows10 launch

The mighty Microsoft marketing system is taking an entirely new approach to introducing the next Windows. Here are the facts, not the hype. You might be surprised.

Tip: Protect Your LastPass Account with Two-Factor Authentication

If you’re already using this method to protect your Microsoft (or Google, or whatever) accounts—and you should be—you’ll be delighted to discover it works exactly the same way with LastPass.

 

Microsoft to Automatically Encrypt Bing Search Traffic

Microsoft announced this week that it will encrypt all Bing search traffic by default starting "this summer." Previously, the software giant allowed users to opt-in to this functionality manually, but with this shift, it will do so automatically for all users.

 

Mobile Computing

The best launcher apps for iOS

A good launcher app can vastly speed up many of the everyday tasks you do on your iPhone or iPad. But which ones are the best? (Hint: We love Launch Center Pro.)

 

The Best Movie Showtimes App for Android

Most of us know how useful IMDb is for getting information about movies, but few probably think of it as their go-to app for showtimes. However, in our experience, it’s the best app for getting to the theater.

 

5 reasons to switch to Inbox by Gmail, and 4 reasons not to

For almost every time-saving feature, there's a drawback that'll make you think twice.

 

Google Maps latest update warns you if your destination will be closed by the time you arrive

Google Maps has a new update that will save you the frustration of arriving at your destination after it’s closed.

 

iOS 9 updates for iPad set stage for business pro version

Apple's iPad franchise gets better multitasking and text management. Why? The iPad needs to be more of a business friendly laptop replacement. Time for an iPad Pro.

The National Disgrace…Government Information Protection

It is difficult to believe that government bureaucrats that run the nuts and bolts of this country left some of its most important data out there with very little protection. Well, maybe not so hard to believe. Massive amounts of data, including the personal information about government employees has been stolen by a foreign government, probably China.

First it was the SS numbers of all government employees. Now we learn that data on intelligence agents has been stolen. The Chinese now know the identities of almost everyone who has a United States security clearance. The data stolen also provides information from background checks about workers' mental health, finances and family.

Today, the Los Angeles Times informed us that the computer systems designed to protect this data were not encrypted, probably because the systems were sold old that encryption would not work. You’re joking, right? Afraid not. According to one government official testifying in front of Congress, these problems are 20 years in the making.

I don’t know what to say except this government, from the President on down through Congress, down to the highest levels of the bureaucracy are completely incompetent. They all seem to be buffoons! Its all about politics, not against getting a proper job done. If you happen to work inside any federal government agency, you know this to be true. I bet you could tell us all stories that would curl our hair.

It is time to bring competency to our government operations, although I cannot even begin to tell you how to get this done. All I can do is complain, and that is what I am doing. Wake up Americans, we are being hosed from within!

Meanwhile, another important private company has been hacked. LastPass, guardian of millions of passwords, including my own, found they were breached by outside hackers…but were quick to point out that no passwords were stolen. However, they strongly suggest that if you use LastPass, you play it safe and change your master password. I have included an article below on how to do that. 

Sorry to be the bearer of such bad news, but I think you will still find some very interesting material below to help you be the master of your computer system. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Latest hack on federal employees targets security clearances

After finding that federal employees' Social Security numbers were stolen, the US government discovers another breach, which exposed data on intelligence agents and others.

Hack affected every single federal employee, union says

A breach revealed last week affected more people and grabbed more personal information than previously announced, the American Federation of Government Employees said Thursday.

Hacked federal files couldn't be encrypted because government computers are too old

Millions of government employee records apparently stolen by Chinese hackers were not encrypted, and software designed to detect computer breaches has not been installed to cover most of the files

Password site ​LastPass warns of data breach

LastPass was successfully attacked last Friday. The company claims that your passwords should be safe. Nevertheless, they are requesting you to update your master passwords.

How to change your LastPass password in wake of site hack

Those of you who use the popular password manager should considering changing your master password following a data breach. Here are the steps.

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to view recent webpages when you're offline

If you’re running Chrome or Firefox then getting to a recently viewed webpage while offline is easy.

Twitter removes 140-character limit for direct messages

You can now speak your mind in a private message on Twitter, with no character limits to hold you back.

Should You Upgrade to Windows 10?

Upgrading a perfectly good Windows PC to a new version of the OS is fraught with peril. It may not work. And if it does work, Windows 10 is new enough that you may be confused by how it works.

Windows 10's best web browser: Edge or something else?

Windows 10 is coming with a new web browser, Edge, to replace Internet Explorer. But is it really the best browser for Microsoft's new desktop operating system?

Microsoft now considers the Ask toolbar as malware

The toolbar is now considered as dangerous due to its ability to overrun the control of a web browser, and the capability to alter its settings.

Mobile Computing

Find out which Android phone is right for you

Not sure what kind of Android phone you should buy? Google has created a new tool for helping you pick the right one

The dangers of Android malware may be exaggerated, but you should still play it safe

It may not be necessary, but it’s still a very good idea. There’s definitely Android malware out there. While the level of the threat may be exaggerated, it’s really a matter of being better safe than sorry.

One in Four Mobile Apps Are Abandoned After a Single Use

While smartphone owners continue to download mobile apps at healthy rates, they are increasingly likely to drop them — often after a single use.

How to Hide Default Apps on an iPhone or iPad

While you can “disable” included apps to hide them on Android, there’s no obvious way to uninstall, hide, or otherwise get rid of Apple’s included apps on an iPhone or iPad. But you can get them out of your way with a few tricks.

Apple iOS 9 Ad-Blocking Explained

Here is another new feature coming in iOS9's Safari...how it works and why it's an all-around bad move for almost everyone except Apple.

Special Bonus Section This Issue on Apple Music

The Internet, blogs and podcasts have been filled these last two days with news and opinions about Apple’s new music service coming at the end of this month. I found some good stories in the last couple of days about Apple Music. But I did not want to lambast the entire blog with this new addition to the Apple Family. So, at the end of this blog, you will find a special section devoted to Apple Music. The rest of the blog remains the same as always.

With that said, I found it interesting that one of the foremost leaders in security has been hacked. Kaspersky Lab is one of the better manufacturers of security software including virus detection. I hope they don’t suffer over this issue…but the general feeling among consumers is if you can’t trust your malware software manufacturer, get someone else.

Regarding the new Windows 10 update program, millions of computer users, including me, did not get the upgrade icon in their task bar. As I mentioned here before, I got it on two of my 3 computers that run Windows (including my MAC running Windows inside Parallels). But my Samsung laptop running Windows 8.1 did not get it. I came across a story that tells you how to get it by running a simple script (see story #3 in the Computer Tips section.) I ran the script today on my laptop and the Windows Upgrade icon popped right up…and it worked. So all three of my computers are scheduled to get the upgrade. So, if you want it but don’t have the icon, run that script.

Well that is it for me today. Hope your weekend is a good one, so take care. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

None of us are safe: Major cybersecurity company hacked

Kaspersky Lab detected a sophisticated and expensive hack it says was carried out by a country.

June's Patch Tuesday is remarkably light

For the past several months, Microsoft's Patch Tuesday releases have been punishingly large. This month, Windows and Office users get a break.

Hit list: All the apps and services Apple tried to kill at WWDC 2015

During its Worldwide Developers Conference keynote this morning, the iPhone maker talked up software updates, services and new functionalities aimed at making several of its competitors’ offerings redundant. Here are the things Apple’s trying to take out with new stuff at WWDC 2015.

Opinion: Giving up on Google

Google has made it clear: The company's stated goal is to organize all the world's data. To organize it, Google first has to collect it, and to organize all of it, it has to collect you.

Microsoft to Rebrand Skype Wi-Fi as Microsoft Wi-Fi, Expand to Office 365

Microsoft it is apparently rebranding Skype Wi-Fi as Microsoft Wi-Fi and expanding a business version of the service to Office 365 Enterprise customers. Microsoft Wi-Fi, like its predecessor, helps customers more easily connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots and minimize expensive cellular data usage on their mobile devices.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Free first aid for a wide range of Windows ills

Did you know that Microsoft offers over 500 automated, online solutions for common problems you might encounter with Windows software and hardware? And that’s on top of the dozens of always-available troubleshooting tools built into Windows 7 and Windows 8.

The Awesome Amazon Prime Benefits You May Have Forgotten About

If you shop online, an Amazon Prime membership is easily worth it for the free two-day shipping alone. But that’s not all a Prime membership gets you. Here are some of the perks you may have forgotten.

How to get the Windows 10 upgrade icon if it's missing

Run a quick script, get the missing icon. JRC: I ran this script on my Windows 8.1 laptop and it worked perfectly.

How to take control of Dropbox sync

Dropbox can cause problems with your storage space and internet connection speed if your Dropbox is stuffed like a junk drawer. Fortunately, there are a few ways to manage the cloud service’s syncing feature and keep things running smoothly.

Google's New My Account Page Makes Managing Your Account Easier

The new My Account page is a hub of useful tools that you can tweak to modify the security or privacy of your account. It even has a Security Checkup and Privacy Checkup to quickly audit your settings.

 

Mobile Computing

10 new Android apps worth checking out

Every day there are thousands of additions to the Google Play store, but many go unnoticed and never receive the attention they deserve. Here are 10 apps that do merit further consideration.

18 features in iOS 9 you may have missed during the keynote

We've heard about the big stuff. Here are my favorite little features hiding away in iOS 9.

Must Have Travel Apps and Tech for Your Devices

If you’re hitting the road for business this summer, you’re going to want to arm yourself with some must have travel apps and tech for your devices. Thanks to new and useful travel apps, as well as the latest tech for your devices, you can get more work done on the road than ever."

Where to buy Google Cardboard

Google isn't selling the new version 2.0 Cardboard viewers themselves. They never sold the original, so that's not surprising. And version 2.0 is what you want if you already don't have a viewer — it works for larger phones

Google Maps now lets you send directions to your iPhone from desktop search

If you're planning a trip in the near future, Google Maps got a nice update that's sure to come in handy. Users can now send directions from their desktop browser straight to their iPhone.

 

Apple Music

The Pros and Cons of Apple Music

Can Beats 1 and Connect help Apple Music battle Spotify and Tidal in the streaming-music wars?

Opinion - Apple Music is a major mess, and it won't beat Spotify

I've been delighted, ecstatic, and occasionally puzzled in 17 years of Apple keynote events. But I've never before experienced frustration or anger in the house that Jobs built.

6 Streaming Alternatives to Apple Music

Apple Music was big news this week, but it's not the only streaming music game in town. Here are your choices

Apple Music faces antitrust investigation in New York, Connecticut

Attorneys general of the U.S. states of New York and Connecticut have launched an investigation into the music streaming industry, apparently with a focus on whether the recently-unveiled Apple Music has broken antitrust rules.

Report: Apple aiming for 100 million Apple Music users

A source familiar with Apple’s plans said the company is aiming to sign up 100 million subscribers for its Apple Music service, dwarfing all existing streaming music services combined.

Apple’s WWDC Keynote–Yawns and Nausea

I suppose you could say I was underwhelmed by this year’s opening Keynote Address at Apple’s World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC). While it’s true there are going to be some nice new features in both iOS and OSX (MAC) none of them wowed my socks off. For instance, they spent a lot of time praising the new features we will see in the Notebook application…most of which have been in EverNote for some time. I hardly use Notes anymore after they made it look so dull and ordinary two updates ago.

Most of the new features will appear in the Fall with the release of iOS 9 and the new OSX for Mac’s, code named “El Capitan.” There will be more features announced as we head towards the Fall. One thing Apple did not talk about was Apple TV. Supposedly this was going to be a killer announcement about a product they have not updated in three years. If you are unfamiliar with it, it is a small square black box that looks just like a Roku Box. But a few days ago, word leaked to the Wall Street Journal that Apple TV would not make an appearance at WWDC…and it didn’t.

Then there was the Apple Watch. I really lost all my focus when they talked about this product. They did announce a new operating system for the watch which will be out in the Fall. But, frankly, I could care less about the Apple Watch. Most of what it does is superfluous and can easily be achieved by pulling your iPhone out of your pocket. So, if you want to know more about this watch, you are really in the wrong place. I am a tech guy, not a fashion consultant.

Briefly, a lot of good things happened for the developers attending the conference. The biggest applause and cheers by far came when Apple announced that their new programming language would go open source. The place went nuts.

I will let you read all about what was announced down below…and I will have more info in my next blog. I know the majority of my readers are in the Windows World, but I thought you might be interested in what is going on in Cupertino, especially if you use an iPhone or an iPad in addition to your Windows computer.

Now for the new Apple Music. This is where I could not believe my eyes and ears. In quick summation…if you are over 25, you need not apply. If you have a modicum of appreciation for good music, you need not apply. This new music service, which will come on line at the end of this month, is for hip-hop rap fans and for radio listeners who love disc jockeys screaming and yelling at them about how cool they are while the music is playing.

I and many other tech journalists think Apple is destroying the #1 Internet Music Service in favor of youth who love the chaos of today’s music. Over a year ago, when Apple bought Beats Music, I knick-named it Hip-Hop Apple. Apple CEO Tim Cook said it will change the way we listened to music forever. I think not. That would be difficult as Apple Music offers little new here that services such as Spotify, RDIO, and others already do. I don’t see anything here that will entice millions of subscribers to switch over to Apple. Oh yea…its $10 a month. You can also get Apple Music free for 3 months beginning June 30 if you want to try it out. I won’t even be doing that. We shall see what the people think.

Well, if you want more, you will have to read it for yourself. I am out of here. -JRC 

 

Tech News and Opinions

Apple Music, iOS 9 and OS X El Capitan: Everything Apple announced at WWDC 2015

A new streaming-music service, multitasking for the iPad, straight talking with Siri and a host of other software developments debuted at Apple's annual developer funfest.

 

The 10 most important announcements from Apple WWDC 2015

Apple Music is finally here... and so is a bunch of smaller stuff

Is It OK for Microsoft to Push the Windows 10 Upgrade on Users?

In Microsoft’s mad quest to push over a billion people to Windows 10 as quickly as possible, has the software giant gone too far? The answer, clearly, is yes. And it doesn’t have to be this way.

14 Targets Hit by Chinese Hackers

Four million current and former federal employees are dealing with uncertainty today after their information was compromised in a breach of the Office of Personnel Management.

Obama lawyers asked secret court to ignore public court's decision on spying

The Obama administration has asked a secret surveillance court to ignore a federal court that found bulk surveillance illegal and to once again grant the National Security Agency the power to collect the phone records of millions of Americans for six months.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Here’s What’s Different About Windows 10 for Windows 7 Users

Unlike Windows 8, Windows 10 actually feels designed for a PC with a keyboard and mouse. Windows 7 users will be much more at home with Windows 10, but there are still some big changes.

Warning: Don’t Download Software From SourceForge If You Can Help It

Don’t download software from SourceForge if you can help it. Many open-source projects now host their installers elsewhere, and the versions on SourceForge may include junkware. If you absolutely have to download something from SourceForge, be extra careful.

Beware: Free Antivirus Isn’t Really Free Anymore

Free antivirus applications aren’t what they used to be. Free antivirus companies are now bundling adware, spyware, toolbars, and other junk to make a quick buck.

Google Chrome will pause 'non-essential' Flash content to save your battery life

A recent article here explained how Google Chrome sucks battery life on laptops. Google has teamed up with Adobe to make Chrome's Flash handling a bit more battery friendly.

Auto upload photos from your computer to Google Photos

You have synced your phone's photos with Google Photos, but what about those on your Mac or PC?

 

Mobile Computing

What you need to know about iOS 9 - Coming This Fall

From native app improvements to a brand new app, iOS 9 is filled with changes. Perhaps best of all is that any device that runs iOS 8 today can run iOS 9 this fall.

iOS 9 is turning the iPad into what it always wanted to be: the new-age PC

With iOS 9, Apple is taking the iPad seriously as a productivity device in a way that it never has before. The iPad is growing up, and Apple is setting the stage to make it an even more powerful device in the very near future.

Microsoft's Plan to Always Keep Your Phones Connected to the Internet

The company is working on a Microsoft WiFi product that will offer users access to more than 10 million wireless hotspots in 130 countries.

These 5 free Android apps will boost your productivity

Struggling to get things done? Grab some or all of these Android apps for your phone or tablet to get a useful productivity boost.

AT&T Moving Farther Away from Subsidized Phones, Two-Year Contracts

The AT&T CEO of mobile and business solutions, said this new approach isn't solely AT&T's call, but also a trend in customer payment solutions.

More About Windows 10 and Google Photos

 

There are still many questions about the Windows 10 upgrade, and not all of them have answers. It’s understandable as Microsoft has never done anything like this. Have you checked to see if you have the small Windows Logo in the lower right corner of your task bar? If you do, did you click on it? That is the easy way to insure you get the new Windows. If you don’t have it, read the first article and you might find out why. I have 3 computers that will get the upgrade. Two of them got the logo. The last one, my Samsung Windows 8.1 laptop has yet to get it…which figures since I hate that computer and its been nothing but a pain since I bought it. It was the straw that broke the camel’s back and is the main reason I switched to Apple…first to a desktop, then a laptop. I reviewed all the criteria for getting the upgrade notice, and have met them all. Oh well, I will get the upgrade eventually…one way or the other.

As for Google Photos, I have added a couple of more articles about it to this edition. If you read my last post, there was a review of the new photo app which said it was good, but not great. Other reviewers gave it much higher marks. I tried it since I already had many photos already at Google, and I agreed with the first reviewer. It is good, not great. Based on his review and my own experiences, I decided to use Flickr. They have just upgraded that system so its features pretty much mirror Google’s. It also has far more editing controls than Google so you can really make your photos sing. The one thing Google does that I don’t like is that they use compression on their photos. Flickr does not. So I am sticking with Flickr. It works very well for me.

The one company that should be squirming about their photos app is Apple. The new Photos app for the MAC and the IOS version do a good job, but you have to pay for storage past the 5GB mark. I did pass that so I now have to pay $.99 a month for 20GB of storage. Goggle offers unlimited storage while Flickr gives you 1TB for free (only a professional photographer would ever need more. I have thousands of photos and I am nowhere near 1TB). Maybe Apple will make some changes. We may find out more on Monday as they hold their annual WWDC conference and will make many announcements in their keynote address. I will have more about that in our next edition.

OK it is time for you to work on your continuing education in computers. So get started and have a great weekend. -JRC  

Tech News and Opinions

Windows 10: You've got questions, I've got answers

There's more to Windows 10 than just the revamped Start menu. I've been keeping this FAQ up to date throughout the Preview program. Here are the latest details with less than two months until the official release.

Microsoft explains what you'll lose by upgrading to Windows 10

Upgrading will mean saying goodbye to Windows Media Center, the card game Hearts, and Windows 7's desktop gadgets...and it changes the way updates work

 

Amazon adds free shipping on small items, no minimum spend or membership necessary

In the face of growing online delivery competition, Amazon has begun offering free shipping on small items like makeup and mobile phone accessories, without requiring a minimum order or a subscription to Amazon Prime membership program.

Obama approves sweeping reforms to NSA phone surveillance

The US National Security Agency has had its wings clipped a bit. First the US Senate approved the USA Freedom Act, legislation that will curtail the federal government's sweeping surveillance of millions of Americans phone records. Then President Obama signed it into law.

The Best Ebook Readers of 2015

Whether you're considering joining the digital book revolution, or just want a new device to replace an older one, here are the best ebook readers on the market today.

Computer Tips and Tricks

Is your PC overheating? Here's how to tell

If you suspect your PC is overheating, download Priform’s Speccy. The free version will probably be sufficient.

How to Use Google Photos from the Desktop

Google Photos has got a lot of people excited about rediscovering their long-lost picture library—thousands of images that were previously doing nothing but gathering dust—and there’s more to the service than you might realize.

Do You Really Need a Touchscreen on Your Windows PC?

In this article, we’re going to break down the main benefits and drawbacks you can expect when debating if you should add a touchscreen to your laptop or desktop, and give you all the data you’ll need to make an informed decision.

How to personalize your PC's power settings for every situation

Power settings are one of those facets of your PC you never really think about until you need to change them. The default settings in Windows are pretty good, but they may not suit everyone or be ideal for certain situations.

12 Things You Didn't Know About Twitter

There's nothing inherently awesome about Twitter. It just happened to pop into existence at just the right place at just the right time. But here are some things you might not know about Twitter.

Mobile Computing

Hound vs. Siri vs. Google Now: Hound is the best by far

Hound has been in development for a whopping nine years now and it really shows. Simply put, we’ve never seen a voice assistant app come even close to having the capabilities that Hound does.

Best Free iPhone Apps: 10 paid iOS apps on sale for free, June 3

Today’s post includes 10 great paid iOS apps that are all on sale for a limited time, and you can download every single one of them for free if you hurry.

Five ways Google search works directly with your Android phone

You can now do even more than send directions to your phone or track its location down via Google search. Google keeps adding tricks, and now there's a total of five functions that tie Google even closer to your Android phone.

Understanding 'Assistant' in Google Photos, and what it can do for you

There's lots to wrap your head around in Google Photos, but the new Assistant feature is here to help.

Think you use a lot of mobile data now? Wait until 2020

Mobile networks will cover 90 pe

Get Your Computers Ready for Windows 10...We Have a Date

 

Yes, the news is out. Microsoft has finally told us when we can upgrade our computers to Windows 10. The date is July 29.

If you have been following the continuing story, you know that Windows 10 is a free upgrade for anyone running a legitimate copy of Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 It's yours for free. No catches. Just download it, run it, let it update itself. All you have to do is learn of few of its new tricks. That's it...free for life.

If you have more than one computer, they all can have it. No limits. Now, how do you get it? This is all new stuff so pay attention. If you are running Windows now, look in the lower right corner of your task bar. If you see a small Windows logo icon, click on it. When it opens you will see a page telling you how the installation works and how you can make a reservation to get it. Just fill out your e-mail address and you are done. It will be downloaded to your computer automatically some time prior to July 29. But you can only install it on the 29th. 

I have three computers running Windows 7 and Windows 8.1...one of them being my MAC running Windows 7 inside Parallels. So I opened up Windows 7 and sure enough there was that little icon. So I clicked it, filled out the short form, and am ready to go. Ironically, my PC and Windows laptop have yet to receive that little icon. It just seemed funny that my MAC was the first computer to be authorized to get the new Windows. Life goes on.

It is important that you reserve your upgrade copy in advance. Why? So it can be downloaded ahead of time. If they didn't do this, millions of computers would be trying to get it on July 29th. It could potentially be a major logjam. 

From my understanding, you don't have to get the little icon to upgrade your computers to Windows 10. You can upgrade it for free anytime within the first year.

There will be some new things in Windows 10 and we will have more details in the next blog. But one thing I will tell you is you no longer will have a choice about updates. Microsoft will automatically send out updates and fixes in the background. That way, all of us will be running the same version of Windows.

The other thing I will tell you is that this version of Windows is not feature complete. They will be adding more features over the next few months. However the features that will come on July 29 are complete...subject to fixes and updates in the future. I think it is going to be an interesting time for all of us.

As you know, I have been running Windows 10 for quite a while now in Parallels on my MAC. I think it is a good product and most of you will like it. I got the latest build update the other day and I can tell it is much better...quite smooth, as a matter of fact. I think it is not far from completion. Just my opinion...but shared by many others.

OK, it is time for me to step aside and let you read all the news that's fit to print. -JRC 

Tech News and Opinions

Get Windows 10: Microsoft's biggest software upgrade in history begins today

It's official: Beginning July 29, Microsoft will offer free Windows 10 upgrades to hundreds of millions of PCs. Here's how the Get Windows 10 (GWX) program works.

Opinion: Windows 10 Release Will Hurt the PC Market This Year

You don’t need a crystal ball to know that giving away a software upgrade that normally costs $100 to $200 is going to trigger more than a few reassessments about the need to replace PCs.

Why Google's Jump for Cardboard Is a Game Changer

And that was Google Cardboard. Cardboard is an open-source DIY VR headset that works with just about any smartphone and can be built at home for around $10. And it's available right now.

Batteriser is a $2.50 gadget that extends alkaline battery life 800%

It’s essentially a voltage booster that sucks every last drop of useable energy from ostensibly spent batteries. So, instead of using just 20 percent of all the power hidden inside of your Duracells and Energizers, Batteriser makes effective use of the remaining 80 percent.

 Microsoft acquires task management app Wunderlist

For the more than 13 million users that have created over 1 billion tasks within the app Wunderlist, some big changes are coming.

Computer Tips and Tricks

Best Free Windows Desktop Software

The list now includes 103 applications in various categories. To read brief descriptions of the applications, select a Software Category on top of this page or use the box below to view all software items in one massive list.

Google Photos Review & Rating

It's a surprising plus that you can share from Google Photos to Facebook, but oddly, not directly to email. The auto-tagging organization is far outclassed by our Editors' Choice photo-sharing service, Flickr, which doesn't limit your photo resolution the way Google Photos does.

Tossed all your snaps into the new Google Photos? You read the terms, right? ... RIGHT?

A clause in the Google Terms of Service notes that The Chocolate Factory reserves the rights to use anything you decided to toss into its servers for marketing and other stuff. Just thought you should know.

6 Features Disappearing in Windows 10 (and How to Replace Them)

Many of your old Windows favorites will NOT be joining you in Windows 10. Here's what you can do about it.

Best Free Torrent Search Engines

This article is about finding the content you want. There is a great deal of content available in bittorrent. Over 25 PetaBytes of content is available in over 20 million active torrents. These sites will help you narrow the results from all those torrents to find the clean, real and healthy (bittorrent-wise) torrent for the content you are looking for.

Mobile Computing

How to Charge Your Phone or Tablet Faster

Not all charging is equal. If your smartphone (or tablet) is low on battery and you only have a limited amount of time to charge it, here’s how you can get the most juice possible.

The best Android apps for astronomy fans and stargazers

Some of those original astronomy iPad apps and many new ones have come along to Android, making it just as strong a platform to serve as a companion for stargazers.

Virtually there: How Google is readying VR for you

The search giant has a low-cost contraption made of cardboard that can turn any smartphone into a virtual reality headset. The goal: mass appeal.

Clear Safari Cache To Free iPhone Storage

If you use mobile Safari for your web browsing, unbeknownst to you, it's been caching the data files of the photos and videos it loads.

Google's new mobile wallet is just like Apple Pay

Google's first attempt to revolutionize mobile payments didn't work out so well. Nearly four years later the company announced at Google IO that it's replacing its first mobile wallet solution with a new app called Android Pay, and it basically works just like Apple Pay.