The iPhone X and Beyond

Are you interested in owning an iPhone X? I am not! The biggest reason…the facial recognition. If you look into how its done, the technology behind it is interesting, but oh so complicated. In fact, it is scary complicated!  I would be afraid it could easily stop working. One good bump or drop of the phone and it might become unusable.

Facial recognition is a technology that is ahead of its time. The iPhone is not the first piece of equipment to use it…and many other devices that tried it have been less than successful.  Our first article in the Mobile Technology section offers a few reviews of the facial recognition…and it is a mixed bag of opinions. There are enough negative thoughts to keep me from buying it.

I love my iPhone 6 Plus and have said so several times here. The fingerprint recognition technology works just great. Why Apple felt the need to change to a different system is beyond me…other than Apple wanted to do away with the home button and they could not make the fingerprint technology work without a button.

Apple always seems to want to find new solutions for problems that don’t exist.

Some of the Android phone manufacturers wanted to try facial recognition, but wound up putting the fingerprint button on the back of the phone. Hey, if it works perfectly, why change? If I had to get a new iPhone today, I would get the iPhone 8 with the good old fingerprint recognition button.

But read the reviews for yourself and you decide. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Four things we learned when Facebook, Google, Twitter testified in Russia inquiry

Tuesday's hearing in the Senate marks the first of several hearings involving the tech giants and how Russian-backed hackers and propagandists used their services to spread misinformation and false news.

Sprint/T-Mobile merger is off, preserving wireless competition (for now)

Sprint owner wants to maintain control and invest in its network, report says.

Opinion: First, Amazon destroyed retail -- now, it's coming for Starbucks

It was a foregone conclusion that Amazon was going to kill retail. Now, your favorite coffee store is in its sights.

FCC chair wants to impose a cap on broadband funding for poor families

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai wants to impose a budget cap on the Lifeline program that helps poor people buy broadband and phone service.JRC: Does his hatred of consumers know no bounds?

YouTube TV is Finally Coming to TVs

I know. You’re thinking, this doesn’t make any sense. How could Google launch a service called YouTube and not make it available on TVs? But that’s what they did.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

After Windows 10 upgrade, do these seven things immediately

You've just upgraded to the most recent version of Windows 10. Before you get back to work, use this checklist to ensure that your privacy and security settings are correct and that you've cut annoyances to a bare minimum.

Best SSDs of 2017

The best SSDs can supercharge your PC. Here are our picks for the best SSDs, what to look for in an SSD, whether you even need an SSD, and more.

Microsoft kills off Outlook.com Premium, bundles features into Office 365

If you’re already subscribed then the changes are automatic starting today, and the features are all part of Office 365 now.

Microsoft's updated Skype Desktop app for Windows, Mac sheds 'preview' tag

Microsoft's updated Skype Desktop for consumers, which works on Windows PCs and Macs, is generally available.

Excel charts: Mastering pie charts, bar charts and more

Excel’s chart features can turn your spreadsheet data into compelling visual communications—if you know what to do.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

Here's What the Reviewers are Saying About iPhone X Facial Recognition

The biggest potential issue for the device involves another Apple design compromise: Its reliance on facial recognition rather than the trusted and reliable Touch ID sensor.

After the iPhone X: Predicting the future of the smartphone

What does the next ten years hold for the smartphone? Here's a few ideas.

Why Microsoft's Office Mobile suite is much more than a simple set of mobile apps

Office Mobile apps are the only versions of Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Excel that work on Microsoft's new Windows Mixed Reality platform.

Switching from an iPhone to an Android Device

f you've been thinking about switching from an iPhone to an Android device and you're already heavily invested in Apple's ecosystem, you'll encounter a few obstacles, but they're far from insurmountable.

How Microsoft is turning Android into the mobile OS for Windows users

With Windows 10 Mobile dying, many former Windows phone users are turning to iOS and Android. But has Microsoft successfully turned Android into a phone for Windows?

Online security 101: Tips for protecting your privacy from hackers and spies

This simple advice will help to protect you against hackers and government surveillance.

More Good Tips and Tricks for Fall Creators Update

Tech News and Opinions

Amazon Key opens your home for indoor deliveries

Amazon is eliminating the need for you to even be at home to receive your packages (or to have a designated safe place), because its couriers can now simply let themselves into your property.

Bad Rabbit: Ten things you need to know about the latest ransomware outbreak

It's the third major outbreak of the year - here's what we know so far.

DeepMind’s Go-playing AI doesn’t need human help to beat us anymore

The company’s latest AlphaGo AI learned superhuman skills by playing itself over and over

Twitter bans ads from Russian-sponsored news sites

Accounts owned by Russia Today and Sputnik won't be able to advertise on Twitter any longer. But their tweeting continues

Report: Equifax Warned of Vulnerability Six Months Before Attack, Took No Action

It didn’t seem possible, but Equifax may have screwed the pooch even harder than previously thought.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

Turn on the new anti-ransomware features in the Fall Creators Update

A well-hidden feature in Windows 10 version 1709 prevents "unfriendly" apps (including most known strains of ransomware) from modifying files in protected folders. Here's how it works.

Windows 10 productivity tips: Making everyday tasks easier

Ed Bott's extensive collection of Windows 10 tips, organized by category. This page includes the most popular tips for working smarter.

Windows 10 Fall Creators Update: Where is my OneDrive Files On-Demand

It has several features that provide additional productivity for the OS and one of them is OneDrive Files On-Demand.

Fix: Windows 10 can't find WiFi network

Problems with WiFi and the internet connection are probably the most common issues Windows 10 users face. And we’ll agree that there’s nothing more annoying for an average user than WiFi issues while browsing the internet.

9 best note taking apps for Windows 10

Here are the best note taking apps you can use to jot down what you don’t want to forget anytime soon.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

Verizon will stop throttling your video if you pay an extra $10/month

The company consistently makes changes that are unfair to its customers.

Top 10 New Android Games This Week: PUSH, ICEY

This column is dedicated to new games that you can start playing right now

How to take better photos with your Android phone

With the help of a few tweaks, a few apps and without additional knowledge, here's how you can get more out of your smartphone's camera.

Apple iOS 11 camera tips and tricks

iOS 11 has new photo effects you can play with...some of them are hidden away.

Photo editing software Nik Collection isn’t dead after all

Google announced back in May that it would no longer be updating its Nik Collection tools, but it looks like the PC-based photo editing software already has a new owner.

How fast charging works on the iPhone 8 and iPhone X

Did you know the iPhone 8 and iPhone X can be charged using a different kind of cable, and that by using this cable your phone will actually charge from totally dead to 50% full in right around 30 minutes?

Is the iPhone X in Trouble?

Tech News and Opinions

Apple's iPhone X gamble shows signs of backfiring

OLED panel problems and technical issues relating to Face ID components could mean severe shortages well into next year.

Opinion: iPhone X: Sorry Apple, but I just can't face using Face ID

Apple promises that using facial recognition will be more secure than using a fingerprint. However, there are still a few things that make me reluctant to use it.

Here's the reason your old devices feel so slow and make you want to upgrade

Computer hardware does not typically slow down over its useful life. Instead, there are several other reasons why smartphones, tablets and PCs start to seem less snappy.

Don't buy an old Roku now

Last-gen Roku players are on sale, but the latest models are well-worth the extra cash.

FAQ: How Kaspersky Lab got on the US government's bad side

An investigation into the cybersecurity company's ties to the Russian government raises many questions and answers few. Here's what we know so far.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

How to fix missing apps after installing Windows 10 Fall Creators Update

One possible issue for some people is the apparent disappearance of various apps. Apps have not been removed from Windows, but Windows 10 Fall Creators Update has rendered some apps completely inaccessible. If you've experienced this problem, here's how to fix it.

Windows 10 Fall Creators Update: Three Things To Check Out

Here are the top three things to make sure you check out /turn on in this latest update to Windows 10 once you get the update on your device.

How to Manage Windows 10’s New “Power Throttling” to Save Battery Life

By limiting the CPU available to background applications, Windows 10’s Fall Creators Update can increase battery life on laptops and tablets.

Windows 10 Fall Creators Update Leaves Up to 30GB in Installation Files

The conventional way for dealing with this problem is to either hit Start and type “Disk Cleanup” or to open File Explorer, right-click on the hard drive you wish to cleanup, and choose “Properties.

You Can Now Use Google Maps to Explore the Solar System

Google Maps is using its technology to enable the virtual exploration of the Solar System! Thanks to images provided by the Cassini orbiter of the planets and moons it studied during its 20 year mission, Google is now allowing users to explore places like Venus, Mercury, Mars, Europa, Ganymede, Titan, and other far-off destinations.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

22 hidden features in iOS 11

There's a lot more to iOS 11 than meets the eye. Here are 22 exciting features you might miss after updating your iPhone to iOS 11.

How to Create New Folders in Files App for iOS

If you want to better organize your files in the iOS Files app, you can easily create new folders in Files app.

How to tell which iPad model you have

You might think you know which iPad you have. The new one. The big one. The rose gold one. The mini. But when you need to know exactly which model you have, or better yet, which generation, it can get a little trickier.

Android Instant Apps: What they are and how to use them on your phone

what exactly are Instant Apps? And how do you get them on your phone? We’re here to help you get started:

Google Family Link: What it is, what you need, and how to set it up

Family Link is now available for all parents, and it was clearly developed by Google engineers who have children.

As a Photographer, These are 13 Free Apps I Wouldn't Leave the House Without

There are hundreds of photography apps available for iOS and Android devices that will help you take better photos. What some new photographers don't realize is that many of the very best photography apps are totally free.

And The Hits Just Keep on Coming From Redmond

Tech News and Opinions

Surface Book 2 hands-on: The sequel we’ve been waiting for

So long, wobbly fulcrum hinge. Hello, 15-inch beauty. Major editions to the Surface Line of products

Microsoft looks to iOS and Android for its path forward in mobile

Along with the new Windows 10 release, the software giant is releasing versions of its Edge browser for both iOS and Android — a tacit acknowledgement that the company needs to embrace the leading mobile operating systems in order to maintain relevance on the desktop.

How Microsoft is thinking differently about hardware and software

Maybe this 'One Microsoft' thing really is taking hold -- at least if you believe Microsoft's account of how the latest Surface Book, Windows 10 feature update and new Office release all came to be.

Google Calendar Gets a Big Update on the Web

Which is great news: Google Calendar on mobile has long been a visual treat, but the web version is … decidedly less so. But that’s about to change..

How to Get Free Stuff on Amazon

Get Free Gift Cards, Ebooks, Music, Movies, and More

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

Windows 10 Fall Creators Update: New Features in Depth

We have broken our Windows 10 Fall Creators Update release coverage into several smaller sections so you can find specific information about the update.

Windows 10 Fall Creators Update: The Photos App

Under-the-hood search has been updated with machine learning and artificial intelligence to help identity and tag your photos based on their content.

How to Protect Your Files From Ransomware With Windows Defender’s New “Controlled Folder Access”

With this new feature enabled, only “apps determined by Microsoft as friendly” or applications you specifically allow will be able to make changes to your personal files in these folders.

Windows 10 performance and troubleshooting tips: Run faster, smoother, longer

Ed Bott's extensive collection of Windows 10 tips, organized by category. This page includes the most popular tips for performance and troubleshooting.

Microsoft launches Visio Online into general availability

The web-based version of Microsoft's diagraming tool is now generally available following a lengthy preview that started in late-2016.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

How to Sync Your Phone With Windows 10

One of Microsoft’s big pushes with the Fall Creators Update is seamless phone and PC integration. Here's how to set up Windows 10's 'Continue on PC' feature.

iOS tip: The handy shortcut menu hidden on your iPhone or iPad

Here's a simple trick that will make it much easier for you to find and use the buried features that you regularly use on your iPhone or iPad

iOS essential skills everyone should know

These handful of skills will help you take control of your iPhone or iPad.

How to improve iPhone and Android pictures with photo edits

Whether you have an iPhone 7 Plus, a Galaxy S8 or a Google Pixel, here are 3 tips to make your photos look better.

Malwarebytes Comes to Android

The folks you trust to safeguard your computer now offer powerful protection you can put in your pocket.

ZTE's Axon M flip smartphone may kick off foldable trend

One phone…two screens. An unlikely company is looking to kick-start a new trend in phones. It just needs to avoid creating a flop in the process.

Windows Fall Creator’s Update Available Now

Its a big day for Microsoft. Fall Creators Update was released today…and, by God, it was! Normally, it takes some time to show up on our computers as Microsoft does a slow rollout. But, surprise, it showed up this morning on two of my four Windows computers, including the version running on my MAC. Wow!! That was fast. Last time, I had to wait a couple of weeks before it arrived up on my HP laptop…and a couple of months later on the other three computers.

Not this time. I got it almost immediately after the release. I was gone most of the afternoon, so didn’t get a chance to check on the other two computers (the two oldest). When I got back, I checked my Samsung laptop. To my surprise and shock, it showed up there also and is in the process of installation as I write these words. It has not shown up yet on my 8-year old HP desktop computer. So,3 out of 4 of my computers got the update on the same day it was released. Amazing!

Be aware that installation does take some time. It was slow going on my HP laptop but the MAC was much faster. You should plan on the update taking about 1.5 hours to finish. And, after it finishes, it needs to install a second update…things that were fixed after the Fall Creator’s Update was certified as being finished. Your computer may install the second update automatically or you might have to jumpstart it by going to the Update section in Settings.

Obviously, I have not had a chance to take it for a spin, but look forward to trying out the new features. Our first article gives you a quick rundown on the new stuff. There are also other articles below on the Fall Creators Update. So, if you get it, have fun. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

How to get the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update

A major Windows update is now here. Here's a quick look at what you need to know.

What you can do to protect yourself against KRACK

If you thought your protected Wi-Fi was safe, think again. Nearly all devices are affected by the new KRACK exploit.

Microsoft has already fixed the Wi-Fi attack vulnerability

Microsoft says it has already fixed the problem for customers running supported versions of Windows.

2017 will likely be the worst year ever for cable TV as cord cutting continues

Based on estimates and data gathered from telecom giants such as AT&T, Comcast, Dish, Charter and Verizon, between 1.8 and 1.9 million subscribers could cancel their cable package by the end of 2017.

Walmart Moves From Traditional Retailer To High-Tech Innovator

What happens when one big retailer competes head-to-head against another big retailer? That’s a world-champion heavyweight fight. That’s Amazon versus Walmart.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

Tip: Get the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update as Quickly as Possible

Today’s the day: The Windows 10 Fall Creators Update is now available. Here’s how you can get it immediately if it does not show up by itself.

Tip: Get the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update on Your Own Schedule

The Windows 10 Fall Creators Update is now available. But what if you wish to hold off a bit?

Windows 10 setup and configuration tips: Don't settle for default settings

Ed Bott's extensive collection of Windows 10 tips, organized by category. This page includes the most popular tips for getting Windows 10 configured exactly the way you want it.

Outlook desktop app is finally getting a long overdue facelift

Outlook fans will soon be treated to a whole new desktop app that won’t look out of place beside other updated Microsoft Office software, whether on Windows, Mac, and even the Web.

30 Chrome Extensions for Better Productivity in 2017

Did you know that there are some really amazing Chrome extensions that can take your productivity to the next level, and help you get things done faster while keeping your sanity.

Make Google Chrome faster and better

Google Chrome is the most popular browser, and with good reason. But even Chrome can sometimes do with a spring-clean to keep it running optimally. Here are five tricks to help you speed up your browser.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

How to add photos, videos, scans, and sketches to Notes on iPhone and iPad

The Notes app on your iPhone and iPad isn't just for typing out text or to-do lists. You can also add photos, videos, sketches, and even scanned documents. Here's how.

One of Android's best file transfer apps comes to iOS

AirDroid makes it incredibly easy to wirelessly transfer all kinds of file formats between your devices. And unlike AirDrop, it’s not exclusively for Apple devices.

41 percent of Android phones are vulnerable to 'devastating' Wi-Fi attack

A new exploit can allow attackers to read Wi-Fi traffic between devices and wireless access points, and even modify it to inject malware into websites.

You can now download the Google Pixel 2 launcher on any phone

Google's been known to tweak its vision for Android's home screen setup with each new release, that's no different with this year's Pixel 2. You can now download the Pixel 2's launcher onto any of your devices.

Microsoft Launcher offers 'Continue on PC' option for Android phones

It's similar to the capability of Apple's Handoff feature.

Amazon Fire HD 10 is an amazing big-screen tablet value

Amazon's big 10-inch tablet delivers serious media chops for less than half the cost of Apple's basic iPad.

Russian Hackers Linked to Kaspersky Anti-Virus

Tech News and Opinions

Israel reportedly found Russian hackers using Kaspersky software

The discovery led US officials to order federal agencies to remove the company's products from their networks, the New York Times reports.

Not to be outdone by Walmart, Amazon drivers will deliver packages straight to your fridge

Amazon is toying with the idea of a doorbell that would allow its delivery drivers one-time access to your home and a smart license plate that would do the same for the trunk of your car.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Roku: Six Things You Should Do

You finally worked out which Roku to buy, and set up the basics: Netflix, Amazon, and whatever other services you’re subscribed to. What next?

Do you need a digital detox?

Stressed? Can't sleep? It might be time for some R&R off the grid.

Here's how Google plans to fight iPhone 8

A new report claims the company is in talks to buy HTC’s struggling smartphone business, which would give it near complete control over future Pixel devices.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

Excel Spreadsheets: Navigation, shortcut keys, data sort and filter, formulas and functions

We start with the basics for navigating, entering, and calculating data.

​Microsoft just ended support for Office 2007 and Outlook 2007

It's time to move off Office 2007 and Outlook 2007, says Microsoft, as it ends support for these and a number of older packages.

How to spot fake Amazon reviews

These handy tools can help you determine if all those gushing reviews are the real deal.

How to delete Facebook from your life

When it’s time to leave Facebook for good, do it by following these steps, and we'll also show you how to back out if you change your mind.

Watch Microsoft demo and explain Windows Mixed Reality

The mixed reality platform is designed to include headsets like the HoloLens with its augmented reality implementation, and Microsoft hopes that one day we’ll see headsets that combine virtual and augmented reality.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

Best Android phones (October 2017)

With Android thoroughly dominating the mobile industry, picking the best Android smartphones is almost synonymous with choosing the best smartphones, period. But competition among manufacturers is incredibly fierce.

Microsoft Launcher for Android sheds beta tag, launches in full

Aside from its recent name change, Microsoft Launcher picked up an overhaul that brought some notable new features. Definitely worth a look if you are an Android user.

10 best plant apps and flower identification apps for Android

They're helpful for identifying plants, tips and tricks on how to grow stuff better, and general information about plants, flowers, food, and other stuff.

Microsoft's Bringing Edge to iOS and Android

With Edge now on every platform, this is the final missing piece of being able to completely transform a phone, via apps, to a ‘Microsoft’ phone.

How to fix 7 annoyances in iOS 11

As with any iOS update, you may not welcome all of iOS 11's changes.

How to use tables in Notes in iOS 11

You can create and edit tables right in the Notes app on your iPhone or iPad. Here's how.

AOL Messenger and Windows Phone Officially Dead

Tech News and Opinions

AOL Instant Messenger is shutting down after 20 years

The pioneering chat app that taught us to text is pulling the plug. On December 15th, AOL Instant Messenger will shut down after running since 1997.

The death of Windows Phone has finally come

As if we all didn't know already. It just took a bit longer than expected

Microsoft silently fixes security holes in Windows 10 – dumps Win 7, 8 out in the cold

Older versions in use by millions lag behind latest OS, leaving systems vulnerable to attack.

Google to use balloons to provide Puerto Rico cell service

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission said late on Friday it had approved Alphabet Inc’s application to provide emergency cellular service to Puerto Rico through balloons.

Netflix to raise subscription prices for most US viewers

Three weeks ahead of the "Stranger Things" season 2 premiere, Netflix is asking for more.

The Arizona Diamondbacks were fined after a coach wore an Apple Watch during a game

While the device wasn’t used to cheat, the team and Prieto will still have to pay an undisclosed fine. MLB will donate the fine to hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

Duck! Windows and Office patches are coming

Last month’s buggy patches don’t instill confidence. For your own peace of mind, delay Automatic Update at least a few days, until the bugs have shaken out.

What to Do With Digital Storage That's Collecting Dust

How many of you have old memory cards, USB sticks, or even hard drives lay around doing nothing?

Windows 10: If you're still running this older version, it's now time to upgrade

Windows 10 version 1511 is about to go 'out of support'. This version no longer will receive security updates.

How to Stop Autoplay Video

Videos suddenly playing when you're online? Turn that “feature” off! PS: That feature is already built into the latest version of Safari on Mac's.

Best VPN services of 2017: Reviews and buying advice

By using a VPN you can keep your identity and data secure online.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

iOS 11 lets you shut down your iPhone and iPad without the power button

One of the great things about any new iOS update is that there are a number of interesting features and subtle system enhancements lurking beneath the surface.

Over 5,000 Wells Fargo ATMs now support card-free access via Apple Pay and other mobile wallets

The bank announced today that more than 40 percent – or over 5,000 of its ATMs – will now allow customers to perform transactions without having to pull out their bank card.

Take awesome VR tours with Apple Map's Flyover feature

You now have a very good reason to use Apple Maps in iOS 11

16 new and notable Android apps and live wallpapers from last week

Welcome to the roundup of the best new Android applications and live wallpapers that went live in the Play Store or were spotted by us in the previous week or so.

Microsoft just made the perfect Windows-user launcher for Android

There's a new Microsoft Launcher in town for Android devices – one that should feel familiar to home-screen replacement app super fans of old.

Pixel, iPhone, Galaxy, oh my! Why pay a premium when every phone runs the same apps?

When you start talking about a $400 to $600 difference in price, the mystique and perceived advantages of a brand and OS platform look a bit silly when they all run the same applications.

The Big Reveal: Yahoo’s Negligence Screwed Everyone!

Tech News and Opinions

Yahoo now admits all 3 billion accounts were hit by 2013 hack

Originally the hack was thought to have exposed more than one billion accounts. Now that amount has tripled. In other words, if you ever had a Yahoo account, your info has been stolen.

Your Yahoo account was definitely hacked -- here's what to do

If you're wondering what to do after hearing about the massive data breach, follow these steps to make sure you're safe.

Equifax blames breach on one person and a bad scanner

Equifax's former CEO is blaming many of the company's mistakes on a single person, and it's not himself.

Everything Google announced at its grand Pixel event

At today’s Google event, all eyes were obviously on the second generation Pixel phone. Pixel certainly lived up to its expectations, but it wasn’t the only notable Google announcement today.

HomePod vs. Sonos One vs. Google Home Max: What's the difference?

Alexa is coming to Sonos and Google Home has gone Max. So what's the difference between these and Apple's HomePod? Let's find out!

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

20 essential Windows keyboard shortcuts to save you a click

Try a keyboard command a few times, and you'll find out just how useful it can be.

How to update your PC's BIOS

Only update your BIOS if you have a clear, concrete reason!

How to fix mouse jumps on Windows 10

If your mouse can’t be properly handled your actions and if there are malfunctions that interfere with your work, you need to find a quick and permanent fix.

The best free software for your PC

Start off right with solid security tools, productivity software, and other programs that every PC needs.

Activate GodMode in Windows 10

GodMode puts all of your settings under one roof.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

Apple's iOS 11.0.2 update for iPhone and iPad is out

It's a small batch of bug fixes and improvements.

How to use iMessage apps in iOS 11

iMessage apps aren’t all about stickers. They’re also a neat and handy way to share information from your favorite regular apps. And in iOS 11, they’ve become a lot easier to use.

How Do Not Disturb While Driving works in iOS 11

With the new iOS update, Do Not Disturb has gotten smarter. It now knows when you're driving, and can stop you from being irresponsible.

Ten Safari long-press shortcuts for iPhone and iPad

We’ve rounded up all the Safari long press tips and tricks below, so you can take advantage of all the different shortcuts and features it offers.

Android Guide: How to Use Android Effectively

It’s not that Android is hard to use, in fact, it’s very easy, but earlier versions are often slow and clunky while newer ones have a lot of features you need to learn to make the most of it.

​Google launches Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL: AI first phones for $649, $849

Google's bet is that smartphone hardware is a commodity and artificial intelligence will win the day. Can Google lead its hardware parade with Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL and compete with iPhone X and Samsung Note 8?

Google Family Link: What it is, what you need, and how to set it up

Family Link is now available for all parents, and it was clearly developed by Google engineers who have children.

New Roku Devices Blow Away Overpriced Apple TV

Tech News and Opinions

Roku Announces 5 New Devices That Make Apple TV Look Bad

Roku announced five new media streaming devices on Monday, which all include some performance and video upgrades, while some will directly compete with the new Apple TV 4K for a place next to your TV.

How trolls on Facebook, Twitter capitalized on Vegas shooting

Internet agitators take advantage of the chaos unfolding after the deadliest mass shooting in US history.

Microsoft retires Groove Music service, partners with Spotify

Groove always felt like a vestige of the Zune era at Microsoft and something that consumers were unaware of.

Senate Reconfirms FCC Chairman Ajit Pai for Five More Years, a Big Victory for Your ISP

The vote to reconfirm Pai, whom President Donald Trump elevated to the role of chairman this January, fell primarily along party lines. Good luck to all of us.

HP Enterprise let Russia review the Pentagon's security software

The review was conducted while HPE was trying to sell the software in Russia.

Desktop and Laptop Tips and Tricks

A year in, Microsoft Edge Extensions now number more than 70

Since introducing extensions to the Edge browser last year, Microsoft has been working diligently to improve their capabilities and the specific extensions for users.

Easy fixes for six common laptop problems

If you think that all notebook damage can be repaired only by the manufacturer or a computer shop, think again. Many problems can be inexpensively and easily fixed with common tools, spare parts, and a little effort.

The Best File Extraction and Compression Tool for Windows

Windows only features built in support for ZIP files, but third-party tools add support for other common types of archives like RAR and 7z. They also offer built-in encryption features.

Best free Microsoft Office alternatives of 2017

We compared six of the most popular free office suites to see how well they replicate the most commonly used features of Microsoft Office.

Watch the baseball playoffs online: A how-to guide for cord cutters

For cord cutters, finding live postseason baseball games online can be tougher than hitting a dancing knuckleball. Our guide will make sure you'll never miss a pitch.

Mobile Computing Tips and Tricks

How to Fix iOS 11 Wi-Fi Issues

Some of the issues that are being reported include poor Wi-Fi connectivity, random connection drops, slow internet speed, and not being able to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

18 new hidden features for your Apple iPhone and iPad

And excellent roundup of the best new features of iOS 11 for iPhone and iPad.

How to reboot and reset your iPhone or iPad

When all else fails, turning off, restarting, or resetting your iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPad Pro or other iOS device is the fastest way to get it working again.

Google’s updated list showcases the best Android apps right now

Google's Android Excellence picks for Fall 2017 include Robinhood, Bring!, Mint, Asphalt 8, Castle Creeps, and many others.

17 new and notable Android apps and live wallpapers

Welcome to the roundup of the best new Android applications and live wallpapers that went live in the Play Store or were spotted by us in the previous week or so.

Avoid seasonal sniffles with pollen forecasts in Google search

You can now view a five-day pollen forecast right inside your search results when using a mobile device to find pollen or allergy information.