It is always fun to try out new things, especially on one’s computing devices. Well, here are a couple I found that made my jaw drop!
First is Vivaldi…no, not the composer, but a new browser with some powerful features and more on the way. It is the brainchild of one of the co-founders of Opera. I just started using it yesterday (on my MAC) and was immediately blown away by its speed. It reminded me of the time I lived in North Central Washington and had fiber optic cable connected to my home.
Like I said, I have only had it about 24 hours as I write these words, so I have not fully explored all its power. One thing I did find out was that you can use Chrome extensions directly added from the Chrome web store. I have added 4 of them so far and they all work just fine. I was also able to import all my Firefox bookmarks quite easily. Also when I ran it for the first time, it automatically installed Last Pass. All I had to do was log on and all my passwords became immediately available. That would have been the first extension I would have added, but did not have to.
I am currently using version 1.1…Version 1.2 with more improvements is due soon. Version 2, a major update, is coming later this year. At the present time, Vivaldi is only available for your desktop and laptop computers, running Windows, MAC OSX, or Linux. It may become my browser-of-choice soon, although I have a lot more exploring to do. But, it is certainly worth a look. You can read more about it in the Computer Tips and Tricks section.
My next discovery is for mobile devices such as iPads, iPhones, or Android devices. It is called “Hound” and it is a replacement for either Siri or Google Now. It’s ability to handle complicated voice requests is quite remarkable. It does this quickly and efficiently. If you download and run it, you will get an amazing demonstration of its power as it sets itself up to understand your voice. It is definitely a winner. Read about it in the Mobile Computing section.
Another winner with similar capabilities is a new, unreleased app called “Viv.” It borders on Artificial Intelligence. You can watch a video of the demonstration as it handles a series of very complicated voice requests. You can read about it and watch the video in story #5 below.
It seems we are on the verge of some major breakthroughs in computing power. It will be fun to watch and enjoy as they all unfold…and you can expect to read about them right here.
There is more good stuff in this edition so take a look and see what you find. Have a great weekend!! -JRC
Tech News and Opinions
Banning computers makes students do better on exams – MIT
The researchers found that "permitting computers or laptops in a classroom lowers overall exam grades by around one-fifth of a standard deviation."
Google to ban ads for payday loans and other lending products from July 13
These include loans with repayment dates that fall within 60 days of being issued. Loans with an annual percentage rate (APR) of 36 percent or more will also be phased out.
Ford: Self-driving cars are five years away from changing the world
The technical leader of Ford's autonomous car project speaks about what it's like to be driven by a driver-less car, and how big a deal self-driving vehicles will really be.
One in four Windows PCs still running obsolete versions of Internet Explorer
Microsoft stopped supporting any version of Internet Explorer prior to version 11 in January this year, meaning that many still using IE 8, IE 9 or IE 10 (there are some exceptions) will not be protected against new vulnerabilities and exploits.
Viv, Siri Creator's New AI Platform, Can Almost Think for Itself
Viv, the brainchild of Siri co-creator Dag Kittlaus, is less of a chat bot and more artificial intelligence that can think for itself. Watch the video and see for yourself.
Computer Tips and Tricks
Vivaldi Browser Is a Breath of Fresh Air
The Vivaldi browser provides a refreshing approach to traveling along the Internet. It offers something beyond the same old thing in a different skin.
Understanding and Dealing with the Windows 10 Privacy Issue
Whatever your feelings about Microsoft and Privacy, it is worth understanding the issues and knowing what security measures are available.
How to Send or Receive a Fax Online
An array of Web-based services exist that can send or receive faxes without much effort.
New Opera Feature Can Improve Laptop Battery Life by 50%
Despite relatively a low install base, Opera makes a compelling case as a recent change to the browser can improve battery life in laptops by about 50 percent, the firm says.
Computer monitor buying guide
You can get a great screen for several hundred dollars, or save a lot of money by focusing on the monitor features most important to you. Fortunately, we’re here to help with information on just what to look for.
Mobile Computing
Google’s new iOS keyboard is called Gboard and it’s pretty awesome
The app integrates Google Search and lets you quickly look up and send emoji, GIFs, videos, addresses, and just about anything else.
Best tablets for kids 2016
Every kid wants a tablet. They're fun, portable, easy to use, and they keep the little ones entertained. If your children have seen you working (or playing) on a tablet, chances are they want to play, too.
Dark Sky is finally available on Android
Unlike Dark Sky for iOS, which can’t be used unless you pay $3.99, Dark Sky for Android is available in a free version...but you will in the end want to pay for it.
The Five Most Useful Features in Nova Launcher for Android
"Nova Launcher is an unofficial fan favorite for Android power users, and with good reason—it’s chock-full of nifty customization features to help users make Android look how they want. But it’s also full of useful time-saving features that can make your life easier."
Hound is a New Personal Assistant - Better than Siri or Google Now
Hound is SoundHound's digital assistant app, first released as a beta in 2015. Now, the app is ready for everyone to enjoy and it comes with a few tricks that one-up both Google Now and Siri. It's available for free in the App Store and Google Play.
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