Wish I Could Think of a Cutesy Headline

I must be running short of brain power today. I can’t think of one smart-ass headline for today’s blog. But I can tell you it is chock full of useful (and sometimes) important information. No doubt you will find at least a couple of useful stories today (I hope).  So since I can’t think of a good headline, let us just get one with the news” - JRC

Microsoft Fixes 21 Security Flaws

Did you update your Windows Computer? Microsoft on Tuesday issued nine security updates addressing 21 separate flaws in products such as Windows, Internet Explorer (IE), .NET, Silverlight, and SharePoint. Several of the fixes address critical flaws, including some that could aid in so-called drive-by attacks.

LibreOffice 3.5 released, introduces new grammar tool

The community behind the LibreOffice project has released version 3.5 of the increasingly popular open source office suite. The update introduces new features and improvements that were developed by the project's growing body of contributors.

New MSN Site Updates Users on Topics Trending on Twitter, Facebook

Microsoft's MSN launched its msnNow site that puts together brief summaries on topics that are trending on Facebook, Twitter, Bing, and news site BreakingNews.com on a website accessible on PCs, tablets, and mobile phones.

All the Google Search Tips in one Video

The search team at Google has created a short video that puts all the useful stuff you can do on Google.com, plus some related search tips and tricks, in one place.

Are your mobile apps spying on you?

The controversy over Path, a mobile social networking app that hoovered up its users' address books without telling them and got spanked for it, has just become a much bigger deal. How much do mobile apps really know about you? More than you might think.

Is your free Anti Virus tool a ‘resource pig?’

A reader’s complaint about Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) spurred head-to-head comparison tests of AV-software resource usage. I put six popular, free antivirus tools through their paces and measured their impact on startup and shutdown times, disk space, and RAM use.

Create Photo Collages Using Pictures of your Facebook Friends

The team behind Shape Collage, a popular photo collage software, have launched Loupe, an online tool that will help you create collages using Facebook photos. You can either use your own photo albums and turn them into collages or the app can also pull photos from the albums of your Facebook friends that are visible to you.

Get Organized: 25 Essential Keyboard Shortcuts

Organization and productivity go hand-in-hand. Learn even a few of these keyboard shortcuts for Windows PCs or Macs to improve your efficiency.

Top 15 free tools for every Windows desktop

Some people collect Windows utilities like windshields collect bugs. But for most of us, the word "utility" is key. If we find ourselves not using the tool a few times a week, we give it the heave-ho. Here are 15 utilities that belong in every Windows user's bag of tricks. They're all free for personal use.

Best Phone and iPad Apps

I normally don’t talk much about smartphones and tablet applications as there are so many different types of them on the market. This newsletter/blog has always been about Windows computing, either on the desktop or laptop. But, I cannot ignore the cellphones and tablets because so many of you have them…including me.

So, in this edition, I’ve included special articles on the best applications for iPad, iPhone, and Android Smart Phones. I’ve also included updates on the new Kindle Fire tablets and iPad tablets that will be coming out in the very near future. Of all the products mentioned, I only have an Android phone, which I like very much. Later this year, I hope to acquire a tablet of some type…am just waiting for the next generation to show up before I make up my mind.

But, I haven’t forgotten you mainstream computer users, as there are some interesting stories that may concern you. Pay close attention to the “Do Not Track Plus” add-on for all Web browsers. I‘ve installed it on Firefox and Chrome and it seems to work very well. Onward…-JCR 

Microsoft warns of dangerous IE browser vulnerabilities

These most severe vulnerabilities could allow remote code execution if a user simply views a specially crafted web page using Internet Explorer. Microsoft is warning all users of its Internet Explorer web browser to immediately apply the latest security patch as a precaution against malicious hacker attacks.

Terrific software and support ... for criminal botnet builders

Shadowy vendor of botnet construction kits based on Citadel Trojan provides platform with customer service that commercial software companies could learn from.

Windows 8 — streamlining the update process

It appears that Microsoft has heard our complaints about a tedious part of the Windows updating process. Changes in Windows 8 should make the never-ending task of installing patches a bit easier, by reducing mandatory system restarts.

Why Your MP3s Sound Bad: High-Resolution Audio Explained

There's more to digital music than MP3 and AAC files, as Neil Young recently reminded us. Here's why high-resolution audio is important.

Do Not Track Plus add-on stops the tracking paparazzi

If ad-blocking is the hacksaw of Internet-protecting add-ons, the overhauled add-on Do Not Track Plus bows today as a finely honed scalpel, excising tracking behaviors embedded in sites without destroying the modern Web. With video.

Amazon readying 9-inch Kindle Fire for 2012, analyst predicts

Bartley told investors in a research note this week that the 9-inch Kindle Fire could launch by the middle of the year. He didn't provide further details on the tablet, but did say that the 9-inch model should increase Kindle Fire sales this year from an expected 12.7 million units to 14.9 million.

Apple in 'crunch mode' preparing apps to demo iPad 3

Apple is expected to unveil its next-generation iPad at a event in San Francisco scheduled for the first week of March, according to a report.

Best Free iPad Apps

But here at Gizmo’s Freeware, we only select the best from the free ones running in full screen on your iPad, while iPhone apps running on the iPad in 1x or 2x mode are excluded from this list.

Best Free iPhone Apps

After using an iPhone for two years, I've learned that lots of things are just easier to do on the iPhone and it's great always having it near. If you are just starting to use an iPhone, I hope this list gets you up to speed with a lot of really great tools.

Best Free Android Apps

Android apps (short for applications) are mobile software designed for running on the Android operating system, which is one of the most popular platforms used in cellphones, tablets and other mobile devices. To help you get the best of the free ones, we have selected some gems in each category and added them here in a convenient list with clear and brief descriptions of each application item.

Eastman Kodak…Going…Going…

For me, it was a good day…and a bad day. The good: Microsoft announced Windows 8 Consumer Preview will be released on Feb. 29…and they introduced a version of OneNote for Android (they have already done it for iPads and iPhones). I love OneNote as it is my favorite and most used application. It is always running on my computer, and now I can access all the info on my Android Phone. As soon as I heard about it, I installed it and it is fantastic. Extremely readable and usable.

I was also happy to learn the exact release date of Windows 8 and am looking forward to installing it on one of my computers. I will keep you updated. Included here are more screenshots of the operating system and, as a bonus, some early photos of the new Office 15, which won’t be available for awhile.

The bad news, for me personally was that Eastman Kodak is slowly disappearing forever into the sunset. They filed bankruptcy a short time ago and today announced they will no longer make cameras. That saddens me personally as I grew up using Kodak cameras…from the little brownies all the way to higher end film cameras. For so many years, Eastman Kodak was the leader in all aspects of photography…from cameras to film to darkroom materials and more. I’ve used many of their products in the field and in the darkroom, so I hope you will pardon me as I feel a bit sad.

But life goes on and so does this newsletter. -JRC

Kodak to stop making cameras, digital frames

The Rochester, N.Y.-based company, which filed for bankruptcy protection last month, said it will phase out the product lines in the first half of this year and instead look for other companies to license its brand for those products. Once the products are phased out, Kodak said its consumer business will focus on photo printing and desktop inkjet printers.

Microsoft to launch Windows 8 Consumer Preview at MWC

The Windows 8 Consumer Preview is launching in Barcelona during the Mobile World Congress on February 29.

Screenshots: Windows 8 Consumer Preview + Office "15"

Thanks to an exhaustive blog post and video about the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, Microsoft's ARM plans, and Office 15, we now have our best peek yet at the future of Windows. Here are some shots from that video, which reveal the Windows 8 Consumer Preview and Office 15 Technical Preview.

Windows 8 bundled Metro apps revealed

The next beta of Windows 8 will apparently give us a healthy dose of Metro apps, whether we want them or not. Microsoft plans to release the Windows 8 Consumer Preview--basically, a pre-release version of the new OS available to anyone who wants to download it--on February 29. Microsoft is reportedly finalizing the Metro apps that will be bundled with the new OS.

The dark side of Apple's dominance

Apple may become the Microsoft of mobile -- for better or for worse -- as Android sales drop and leave the mobile industry fewer dollars to divvy up

Five Tips to Make Your Facebook Timeline Amazing

Facebook Timeline is coming. It's just a matter of, well, time. Here are five tips to make your Timeline pop (plus a bonus tip in case you don't like Timeline).

In world of copyright craziness, BitTorrent, Inc. soars to new heights

It's a turbulent time in the world of content distribution. Despite a successful protest against overly restrictive anti-piracy legislation, law enforcement has demonstrated its already considerable power to take copyright-infringing websites offline, and several hosting and torrent sites have gone dark voluntarily to evade prosecution.

OneNote Mobile for Android is now available worldwide

Mobile versions of OneNote are currently available on Windows Phone, iPhone, iPad, and now Android. No matter which platform you prefer, OneNote Mobile lets you easily capture and access all of your notes and ideas on the go.

The Best Android Phones

It was the introduction of Android that helped propel the app-based smartphone to what it is today. The thing Android offered, which Apple's iPhone couldn't, was choice. Since it was an open-source platform, several hardware manufacturers could use the OS on their handsets, and a variety of wireless carriers could offer those phones—and they did.

Get Organized: Clean Up iTunes (Part 2)

If your iTunes music collection is a mess, you might think it's too far gone to fix. It's not. You can clean up and reorganize your music, I promise! The trick is to do it in small chunks and in a way that ensures that your organization builds on itself.

Windows 8 Preview Closer Than You Think

We are probably only two weeks away from the release of Windows 8 Consumer Preview…as it is now being called. Will an upgrade be worth it? Hard to tell. Right now we know the biggest new feature is the so-called Metro Interface. It reminds me of a smartphone or tablet interface. Of course, those are both touch devices and my desktop and laptop are anything but touch devices.

Now, you can use your mouse to activate Metro buttons…or switch to the desktop interface you know enjoy with Windows 7. If that is the case, why pay for Windows 8? Well, I am sure there is more to it than that and I am going to try out the Windows 8 Consumer Preview on one of my laptops and let you know. If you would like to see the Metro Interface, check out our very first story.

I’ve also included a couple of interesting articles on photography in this edition, so be sure and check those out, if you are interested. As always, there are also other good stories here to keep you occupied, so enjoy. JRC   

Leaked Shots Reveal Windows 8 Consumer Preview

While we eagerly await the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, which is still expected to come sometime this month, two blogs have leaked numerous screenshots of what appears to be the release. And based on these shots, we can see some important differences between the current build, the Developer Preview, and the coming Consumer Preview.

Opinion: Five Reasons why Windows 8 will be dead on arrival

Some of the author's die-hard Windows friends are very excited by Windows 8 arrival later this year. Others fear that Windows 8 will be a repeat of Microsoft's Vista disaster. The author knows Windows 8 will be a Vista-sized fiasco.

Adobe Launches Sandboxed Flash Player for Firefox

In secure software development, sandboxing refers to the practice of isolating a process from the operating system in order to minimize the fallout of a potential exploit. This type of technology has gained popularity in recent years, primarily because of its use in Google Chrome, a browser that has never experienced a successful remote code execution attack so far.

Be everywhere: Google’s real social strategy

There has been a lot of talk about how Google+ is failing, going to fail, or is a waste of time for both individuals and brands. It would be foolhardy, however, to treat Google+ as down for the count so early in the match. After all, Google has a lock on key distribution channels that it can use to muscle Google+ into the forefront of the social media conversation.

New Malware Attacks Target Online Banking

A new online banking fraud scheme is on the loose. Users are tricked by an offer of training in a new "upgraded security system" after being logged into the bank's real site, after which money is moved out of the account but evidence of the theft is invisible. The scam involves what has been dubbed the Man in the Browser attack.

Your next computer could well be a tablet

Like it or not — and I know that some of you don’t — tablets are changing the way the world works and plays. Whether it’s an iPad, Kindle, Nook, or a tablet based on Google’s Android OS, mobile devices are swirling across the computing landscape. Here’s how to pick the right one.

12 Great Tips to Scan Your Family Pictures

In the age of digital photos, photo scanners are still around largely because most of us—or our parents and grandparents—have collections of old film-based photos. Most people would like to get those photos scanned, if they could only figure out how. If that's the boat you're in, here are some tips that can help.

10 Photography Tips for Enthusiasts

You don't have to be a pro to really love photography. If taking pictures is your passion, consider these tips and ideas to help expand your skills and bring new perspective to your work.

A Handy Tweaking Tool For Windows

I normally try to steer clear of system utility tools such as registry cleaners, generic Windows clean-up suites and so on, because in my experience they can do more harm than good. But a simple, free program called Tweak Me seems to work rather well, and it's easy to reverse any changes because you can keep track of the selections you make.

Great Tech Info To Occupy Your Mind…Until Sunday Anyway

While my last blog featured more news, this one features more good information, which is probably what you want the most anyway…and there is some good info here for sure.

And as Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday, I’ve included three stories that might be of interest…like how to watch the game for free on your computer. And, be sure and watch the preview of a Super Bowl commercial (see the very last story) that will air during the game. It may just make your day. Onward and Upward…JRC

Why Are Digital Cameras Disappearing?

Digital camera maker Canon is in a bit of a bind. Its high-end Single Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras are growing in popularity, but compact cameras -- the basic point-and-shoot variety -- are starting to tank except in "emerging markets."

What Actually Changed in Google's Privacy Policy

It shouldn't take a letter from Congress for Google to give straight answers about Privacy Policy changes. In fact, it took a letter from eight representatives to persuade them to provide straightforward answers to the public about their new policy. Here's what you need to know about the substantive changes in the new policy:

Looking ahead to Windows 8: five big questions for Microsoft

The beta release of Windows 8 is just a few weeks away. It should be nearly feature-complete, and expectations will be high. So what’s keeping managers in Redmond awake at night? Here are my top five questions.

What Tech Gear Sucks the Most Power?

We break down what tech gear costs you the most on your electric bill even when it's not actively being used.

Best Free Online Applications and Services

With online applications and services, you do not need to download and install them into your computer for using them—you just need to open up a browser and access them online. Not only that you can save hard disk space as they do not need to be installed, but also you can work with files that are saved online from any computer anywhere, without the need to carry a storage device even a USB stick around with you.

Probably the Best Free Security List in the World

This huge list of free computer security products and services has been compiled over several years and is continuously updated. The purpose of the list is to provide a comprehensive documentation of the security products available rather than specific recommendations.

Get Organized: Clean Up iTunes

Duplicate tracks, unnamed albums, a disarray of miscellaneous songs and audio files--if those words describe your iTunes music library, take these three easy and accessible steps to clean it up.

Watch the Super Bowl on Your Cell Phone or Computer

A Super Bowl phone-watching offering is being made possible through a collaboration involving the National Football League, Comcast's NBC and Verizon Wireless. That means you'll need service through Verizon Wireless to watch on an iPhone or an Android phone. Another option: You can watch for free on a computer instead at NBCSports.com.

Twitter Launches Ad Scrimmage Competition for Super Bowl

To help fuel the conversation this year, Twitter is sponsoring what it calls a first of its kind competition called Ad Scrimmage, where ads can compete to see which gets the most buzz in the week following the game.

VW tries to out-Vader its last Super Bowl ad

Bonus Story: I tweeted this link on Twitter and Facebook.  In case you didn’t see, here it is again. I will just say if all Super Bowl ads are half as great as this ad, we are in for a wonderful Sunday. Don't miss it!!

ACTA: A Hollywood Censorship Dream Come True

Today it’s time to talk about the new threat to the Internet as we know. SOPA and its companion bill in the Senate are dead. Thank the gods for that. But a new international treaty deal is about become the law of universe. And you need to understand what that means.

The treaty is being strongly opposed by citizens of European nations as they fear it as Carte Blanche for governments to shut down whatever sites they deem to be infringing the copyright laws…without due process. And that is exactly what it is. For instance, it will take non commercial, non criminal file sharing and turn it into a criminal act. Normal people will become criminals.

Even the signing parties don't agree on the purpose, scope and nature of ACTA. This may be the scariest part. Part of the debate in the US is over President Obama's claim that ACTA is not a binding treaty, but rather a sole executive agreement that doesn't need Congressional approval. Many believe that this is unconstitutional, and Senator Ron Wyden has asked the President to explain what certainly appears to be a violation of the Constitution. However, over in Europe, they're insisting that it is a binding treaty.

The sad part is that it will force us to keep our outdated copyright laws…And it may be too late to get out of this very bad treaty. It looks like a done deal. JRC

Thought SOPA Was Bad? 10 Reasons to Oppose ACTA

If you haven't heard much about ACTA, don't be surprised. You see, you really weren't supposed to hear anything about ACTA until well after it was ratified and far too late for the rabble to do anything about it.

What Is ACTA And Why Is It A Problem?

First off, ACTA, unlike SOPA/PIPA, is not "a law." It's a trade agreement, in which a variety of countries agree to deal with intellectual property infringement in a similar fashion. But why was it kept a deep dark secret until someone uncovered and published it on the Net? President Obama says he will sign it...but does he have the right to? Treaties are ratified by the Senate.

Angry Birds boss: Piracy helps us 'get more business'

"Piracy may not be a bad thing: it can get us more business at the end of the day...We took something from the music industry, which was to stop treating the customers as users, and start treating them as fans. We do that today: we talk about how many fans we have.

The death of online piracy: the end of the Internet as we know it

Piracy finds its way into just about every legitimate avenue on the Internet. As such, the death of online piracy via shutting down otherwise legitimate sites and services could mean the end of the Internet as we know it.

Mozilla Releases Firefox 10 With Better Extension Updating

The new Firefox will be released today. Chief among what's new for end users is how Firefox 10 handles extensions upon auto-updating to the new browser version. Now, instead of rejecting extensions not specifically updated for version 10, the browser will assume extensions are compatible unless specifically marked otherwise.

Google, Microsoft, Yahoo!, PayPal go after phishers with new e-mail authentication effort

Major e-mail providers, including Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo! are teaming up with PayPal, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more, to implement a new system for authenticating e-mail senders to try to prevent the sending of fradulent spam and phishing messages.

Microsoft Begins Office 15 Technical Preview

Microsoft today announced that it has begun the Technical Preview program for Office 15, the next version of its office productivity suite. While details are still sparse, the software giant did say, however, that Office 15 is the most ambitious undertaking yet for the Office Division. And that suggests some interesting changes ahead. A public beta is scheduled to be released this summer.

How tweet it isn't: Twitter's new censorship policies

Twitter has announced that it will allow governments to censor some (but not all) tweets. Did they really have any other choice?

12 Things You Should Know About Facebook Timeline

Until recently, users were able to opt-in to Timeline; now they will be automatically switched over. When you get Timeline, however, you'll have a seven-day preview period, during which you can delete the content that is on your profile and hide what you don't want displayed."

Swole.me Automatically Plans Your Meals Based on Your Dieting Goals

One of the hardest parts of dieting is figuring out what you can actually eat. Swole.me is an app that figures out your meals for you. You simply tell it your calorie goal, what meals you want to eat, and what foods you want to include in those meals and it'll generate a plan in seconds. Free.

AT&T Merger with T-Mobile Fails–You Get to Pay

A year ago, when AT&T announced its merger with T-Mobile, there was a small codicil in the agreement that said if AT&T could not go through with the deal, they would pay T-Mobile’s German parent company $4 billion. That’s with a “b”, not an “m”. Even though the feds nixed the deal, AT&T still has to pay…or should I say its customers have to pay. Prices are going up. For all of you AT&T customers, I am sad for you and you should raise a stink. Congress should step in also, but I am afraid they are too busy helping their Hollywood masters to do anything for you.

There are some other interesting stories included here, including Netflix recovery from near disaster…so I hope you will find something of interest. - JRC

AT&T punishes its customers for T-Mo merger’s failure

After blasting the Federal Communication Commission for “picking winners and losers” in the wireless industry by scrutinizing every deal, Stephenson claimed AT&T is now in a mobile capacity-constrained environment which has forced it to raise prices and manage connection speeds (aka throttle) for its highest volume subscribers.

Sprint vs. Verizon vs. AT&T Wireless Plans

Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint combined have over 60 percent market share of cellular providers, and the needs of nearly anyone can be met within the framework of one of these choices. When considering a smartphone, choosing the wrong plan, carrier, or features can leave users stuck with hidden fees or unnecessary monthly premiums. Customer service is also a key consideration when selecting service.

Ready or not, you’re getting IE 8 or 9

Microsoft is pushing the latest versions of Internet Explorer as part of its monthly updates. The main reason is to force you to stop using earlier versions which are open gates for malware infections. This blog post teaches you how to use the new IE and to make it look like the version you've been used to.

Netflix customers return in 4Q; stock soars 16%

Netflix has regained almost as many customers as it lost following an unpopular price increase, signaling that the video subscription service is healing from its self-inflicted wounds.

iPad dominates tablet market, but Android is closing fast

It wasn't long ago that Apple owned nearly 70 percent of the global tablet market. But now, the company is just barely holding on to half the space.

6 Google Chrome remixes worth trying

Chromium-based spinoff browsers bring privacy, security, social networking, and other interesting twists to Google's Chrome browser. Here are six of them to look at.

The Best Antivirus for 2012

PCMag has reviewed over a dozen antivirus tools explicitly identified as 2012 models, along with a number of others released during the same period.

Get Organized: File-Syncing Services to the Rescue

The purpose of a file-synchronization service is to give you access to all your most important, current files from any computer or Internet-connected device, like your smartphone or tablet, anytime, anywhere. Note: I use DropBox (mentioned in this article) and Windows Live Mesh (not mentioned). Both work great.

Crawler 3D Tropical Aquarium Screensaver

Download this 3D screensaver and liven up your desktop with a brand new 3D tropical aquarium full of colorful moving coral fishes that allows you to feed them and knock at the glass to make them move! You can also download and add new fishes & backgrounds.

Today: A Little News and Lots of Helpful Info

Not everyday can be filled with blockbuster news…and thank God for that. I would much rather publish good tips to help you understand technology and to make your computing much easier and faster. I hope that is OK with you. So read on and see what I dug up today. - JRC

Supreme Court holds warrantless GPS tracking unconstitutional

All nine justices of the Supreme Court ruled on Monday that police officers violated the Fourth Amendment rule against unreasonable search and seizure when they attached a GPS device to a suspect's car and tracked it for 28 days without a warrant. 

Internet now active with 2.1 billion users

Sweeping across the continents, Asia holds 922 million Internet users, Europe has 476 million, and North America is in third place with 271 million. Drilling down to individual countries, China is on top with 485 million people using the Internet, more than 36 percent of its total population.

ViewSonic launching Ice Cream Sandwich tablet for just $170

We don’t all need the latest and greatest Android tablets and ViewSonic is launching devices that meet those who want to save money without too much compromise.

Apple's mind-bogglingly greedy and evil license agreement

Over the years, I have read hundreds of license agreements, looking for little gotchas and clear descriptions of rights. But I have never, ever seen a legal document like the one Apple has attached to its new iBooks Author program.

Understanding The Windows 7 UAC

The User Account Control (UAC) was introduced as a security tool for Windows to help standard users perform admin tasks and to encourage users not to run as admin. When any program requires admin privileges, the UAC prompt asks users for permission to proceed. Potential malware can also be prevented due to the features of the UAC. The following tutorial will help you understand UAC prompts, enable a password protection setting and how it will help secure your system.

How the Kindle replaced my iPad...for book reading

There's a case to be made for convergence devices, and for merging every product down to just one. The iPad, in many ways, has been that device for me: I travel light, I read or watch movies or play games or surf the Web on it. It's a security blanket and a thin catchall. Still...I bought a Kindle.

10 must-have Google Chrome add-ons

From a session saver to a social media assistant to a simple in-browser image editor, these extensions provide a variety of useful tools for the growing legions of Chrome users.

How to start Windows 7 faster

High-performance PC hardware doesn't always deliver the speed users expect. But you probably shouldn't blame the hardware. The slowdown may be due to a software conflict.

How to try the Windows 8 Metro interface free

Windows 8 is still just a promise, except for a few folks with developer's builds. If you want to try out the fabled Metro interface on your computer, there's now a solution. The metro7 app changes the Windows 7 interface to make it look and feel like Metro.

Is SOPA Dead? I Hope So

It looks like Wednesday’s voluntary blackout of some major Websites had the desired affect…the SOPA bill may just have died. In this issue of Rants and Raves, I include a couple of articles about this highly controversial subject, plus a related confession by an on-line pirate that may help you understand why people pirate and how this relates to SOPA.

In other news, I am impressed by Apple’s new educational initiatives and think there are some real benefits for students of all ages if it comes to fruition. The only flaw I see is that students would be required to own an iPad. I hope this means that Apple’s new iPad 3 (announcement coming soon) will become more affordable.    

I think you will also find some other interesting articles and free software in this edition. So, let’s get started…JRC

Protests lead to weakening support for Protect IP, SOPA

An unprecedented online protest against a Hollywood-backed copyright bill may be working: some of its previous supporters in the U.S. Congress are backing down. The protest, which included a Wikipedia blackout and home page alerts at Google.com and Amazon.com, has prompted some senators contacted by CNET today to abandon their earlier enthusiasm for Protect IP and the Stop Online Piracy Act, or SOPA.

Why SOPA Is Dangerous

Wev'e talked a lot about this bill on this blog...now you can find out why Hollywood and Congress want this bill passed and how it will work to demolish our constitutional rights.

Why I Pirate

An on-line real life pirate explains his personal reasons for pirating software, music, and videos. Definitely worth a read.

Apple boldly reinvents the school textbook with iBooks 2 and iTunes U

Apple just held a press conference in New York detailing new strategies and software to turn the iPad into a complete textbook replacement for students of any age. After rattling off the many reasons why textbooks are not as good as computers (weight, lack of up-to-date material, cost, no search, etc), Apple announced iBooks 2, iBooks Author, and an improved iTunes U, all with the goal of completely melding the iPad into the education experience.

Kodak files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

The company, which hopes to emerge from bankruptcy in 2013, said it has secured $950 million in debtor-in-possession financing from Citigroup that will allow it to keep operating during restructuring.

32-bit and 64-bit explained

This tutorial should help you to understand the concepts of 32-bit and 64-bit computing. We'll look at your computer system as three parts: the hardware, the operating system and the application programs. At the end we'll look at some of the common questions people have.

How to Know If Your Computer Is Infected

Most of us believe our PCs are not infected but there is always that nagging doubt "What if my PC really has a malware infection but it has managed to hide itself from my security software?" Alas there is no 100% answer to this question, but here are some steps you can take to put your mind at rest.

Get The Metro UI On Windows 7 With Metro7

If you’re interested in trying out the new Metro User Interface and can’t be bothered to go through the hassle of downloading the Windows 8 developer preview, then Metro7 could be just the program you’re looking for.

TweetDeck 1.2 Free

TweetDeck is your personal browser for staying in touch with what's happening now, connecting you with your contacts across Twitter and Facebook.

Some of Your Favorite Sites Will Be Gone Tomorrow

I’ve lost track of how long I have been doing this newsletter/blog. I know that I started sometime back in the 1990’s on printed paper, then via e-mail, now via a blog that is seen all over the world. As I am retired, you have to know it is a labor of love.

At the beginning of every new year, I like to re-explain my goals for this newsletter. I write this blog/newsletter mainly for computer non-nerds…in other words, the rest of us that just want to get the most out of our computers without going into all the heavy-duty tech stuff. We just want them to work and be easy to use!

However, sometimes having a little background on what is happening in technology keeps your computing knowledge current so you can make informed decisions about the computers and equipment you buy and the best software to use to be productive…or important stories that affect all of us, like the protest blackout coming tomorrow.

I also recommend interesting Web sites, and software (usually free) that you may find handy.  Again, I hope you find this blog/newsletter to be interesting and of some use. And now…on with the show! JRC

This Internet blackout has been brought to you by the U.S. Congress

Parts of the Web will go dark tomorrow to protest SOPA and PIPA, legislation that will do little to thwart piracy but could make your favorite websites disappear

U.S. online piracy bill headed for major makeover

U.S. legislation aimed at curbing online piracy, which had appeared to be on a fast track for approval by Congress, appears likely to be scaled back or jettisoned entirely in the wake of critical comments over the weekend from the White House, people familiar with the matter said.

Symantec accused of using 'scareware' tactics to sell full-version products

The complaint alleges that misleading 'scare' tactics are being used by Symantec in its Norton Utilities, PC Tools Registry Mechanic, and PC Tools Performance Toolkit products. The claims also suggest the software range always report harmful errors, privacy risks and other issues that exist, regardless of whether they actually exist.

Hotmail Improves Yet Again, This Time with Newsletter Filtering

Hotmail has been on a rapid update cycle of late, and if you are using this service, I suspect you've noticed the improvements over the past year especially. This week's update concerns an improvement to Hotmail's SmartScreen feature, which is used to identify and separate junk email from legitimate email. But with this update, SmartScreen does even more: Now it also separates email newsletters from other email.

10 tips to make your Web browser less annoying

Regardless of which web browser you use, in all likelihood there are some things about it that you don't like. Some "features" you might have to learn to live with, but in other cases you can fix the problems and make the browser work more the way you want it to. This article provides ten tips for making IE, Chrome, Firefox and Safari less annoying.

Ten little things to secure your online presence

Here’s some basic advice on the tools and tricks you can implement immediately to secure your identity and online presence.

How to rip DVD movies using freeware HandBrake

Most countries allow you to make backup copies of DVD's you own. HandBrake is a free tool which comes with plenty of features for beginners and intermediate users alike. This free cross platform, open source program can *convert a DVD into formats such as MP4, MKV, AVI or OGM that can be played on your PC, Mac, Linux box, iPod, PSP, Apple TV, Television, iPhone, or mobile phone. Just follow this guide.

Calibre - A Must for All e-Book Readers - Free

You've finally bought that Kindle or Nook or Kobo that you've been dreaming about, and you've purchased dozens of e-book bestsellers. Then, delighting in libraries offering more than 1.5 million free, public domain works--plus thousands of magazines and newspapers. Now, how to get them from your computer to your reader? What if they are in a different format than your reader? You need Calibre.

Automate your DropBox operations and experience with DropBox Automator

Most of you may be aware of DropBox, the free cloud storage service that lets you upload and save your files in the cloud. You can sign up for the service and install DropBox on any of your device and instantly start sharing your files over the cloud. This article will tell you about one more free service called DropBox Automator, that will make your DropBox experience even better by completely automating your DropBox file operations.

The Best of CES

As CES ends it week-long run in Las Vegas, here are some highlights, including the Best-Of Awards. Plus, I have a few other stories that you may find of interest. Check out the new free Kindle add-on to send documents from your computer to your Kindle. It works very well. So have fun… JRC

Best of CES 2012 Awards

CNET once again presents the official awards program of CES. The awards recognize the best products at the show, including a Best of Show award and a People's Voice award, as voted by the CNET audience.

Ultrabook PCs and Tablets Dominate 2012 CES News Cycle

For the past few years, Apple's presence has hung over the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) like the dark shadow of Mordor in Tolkien's classic Lord of the Rings series. But not this year: The big news makers at the 2012 CES are product lines designed specifically to compete with two of Apple's most successful offerings. And unlike in years past, it seems that Apple's competitors have finally gotten it right.

Top Five Tablets of CES

At CES we spotted hordes of tablets this year, but only a few knocked our socks off with impressive specs, great value, and innovations that rival Apple's leading iPad 2. Instead of giving you the tablet laundry list of every single slate shown here at CES (and there were many) we are going to get right to the point.

Roundup of the Raddest New Camera Releases!

Because all the sensor sizes, f-stops and long-winded terminology* start to melt into a foggy photo haze, we rounded up and broke down the most noteworthy camera stories from CES!

Dish to shut more Blockbuster stores than planned

Dish Network will be closing more U.S. Blockbuster stores across than it had originally planned, and will turn the remaining outlets partly into Dish customer-service points.

Archive Your Old Mail and Start 2012 with a Clean and Tidy Inbox

If one of your new year's resolutions—or goals at least—is to keep a tidier inbox, get started now by archiving those old messages you know you'll never get around to.

Amazon's Send to Kindle App Makes Sending Documents to Your Kindle as Easy as Right-Clicking

Windows: Amazon's new Send to Kindle utility is a shell extension that allows you to quickly send one or multiple documents to your Kindle device or library to read on your e-reader, or just for safe keeping.

Facebook Now Lets You Listen to Music With Your Friends, Chat About It in Real Time

Facebook began rolling out a new feature today in which users can listen, using Spotify or other music streaming services, to the same songs as their friends and chat about it as they listen.

CES–The Big Week Ahead

The annual Consumer Electronics Show is underway in Las Vegas. Although somewhat misnamed (consumers are not allowed in), almost anyone who is anyone in the field of electronics is here. From computers to TV’s and anything that has electronics in it (even autos)…its all here. This is where retailers and the press get a peak at what is coming their way in 2012.

That is all well and good, except there are very few surprises any more, thanks to the Internet. We already know all about what is coming. And, because almost everything is future ware, there have been many instances where products shown here never make it to market…too many actually.

Frankly, I think the show is starting to lose its appeal. Apple pulled out several years ago and this year is Microsoft’s last appearance. And tech reporters consider it a badge of honor NOT to attend this show. Last year, the big buzz was about e-book readers and tablets. Most of those never made it to market or had a very short life, thanks to Kindle and the Nook’s market dominance.

And what is the buzz this year? It is Ultrabooks…those very thin and lightweight laptops with powerful processors. They are everywhere at the show, thanks to the big push being given by Intel. This is actually phase 2 of a 3 phase Intel program for Ultrabooks. Phase 3, sometime in the near future, will  have laptops with detachable screens that become tablets. But that is probably set for next year.

So in response to all this I have 2 stories in this edition that cover CES. The first is CNet’s complete coverage of the show. You can come come back to this page all week long to get updates. The second story gives you a little more information about Ultrabooks and the Intel Master Plan. As for the rest… well the headlines and synopsis’ will tell you what you need to know. Have fun! - JRC  

CES 2012 - So far

Here is look at some of the products unveiled at CES 2012. You can keep coming back to this comprehensive site to see more. If you are interested in the new Technology that might be coming your way, this is the best place to find it.

Intel's Ultrabook Plan: Cheaper, With Touch Screens, and Marketed Like Crazy

Intel created the ultrabook laptop category last fall, in response to Apple's Macbook Air and to the casual computing afforded by tablets. Intel wants ultrabooks, which emphasize slim design and long battery life over raw performance, to account for 40 percent of the laptop market by the end of this year.

Google makes searching more personal

Get ready to start seeing more Google+ in your searches. This week, the Mountain View Internet giant is rolling out a set of changes to its basic search function designed to drive more traffic to its nascent social network.

Google patches Chrome, beefs up malicious file blocking tech

Google last week patched Chrome 16 and improved the download warnings in the impending Chrome 17. The company updated Chrome 16 with a security update that quashed three bugs, all rated "high," the company's second-most-dire threat rating. Two of the bugs warranted bounties of $1,000 each, including one to a developer who works for rival Mozilla, maker of Firefox.

Barnes & Noble Considering Nook Spinoff

While Barnes & Noble touted strong holiday sales for Nook products, it noted that sales of the Nook Tablet and Nook Simple Touch fell short of expectations. Nine-week holiday retail sales were up 2.5 percent from last year to $1.2 billion and online sales increased 43 percent to $327 million.

Lost your Windows discs? How to get replacement media, legally

Did your most recent Windows PC come with reinstallation media? Many do, some don’t. But contrary to what you might have read, creating replacement Windows discs is easy, and every major PC maker will supply backup discs, sometimes for free. I have details.

Get Organized: Clean Up Your Desktop

If your virtual desktop, server, and email inbox are disorganized disaster zones, it's not too late to save them! By following a few simple steps, you can reclaim a sense of order. Here are 5 articles to get you started.

Windows Defender Offline — old name, new use

Microsoft’s newly released beta version of Windows Defender Offline, a rootkit-sniffing and Windows-rehabilitation tool, should be the latest addition to your bag of Windows-repair tricks. WDO should be able to catch a wide variety of nasties that evade detection by more traditional antivirus methods. Highly recommend you get this one and use it.

Some Great Information Here to Start the New Year

Happy New Year, everybody! I am back after an extended Christmas/New Year holiday. I’ve had an enjoyable holiday season and hope you did also. My son surprised me on Christmas Day with a brand new high speed computer system, including a beautiful 23” monitor. So, have spent a great deal of time getting it set up with all the software I use. This computer is so much faster than my last system. Photoshop, Lightroom, and Painter are all blazing fast and don’t crash. I am a happy camper.

Very little hot news occurs this time of year, but have found a couple of stories of interest. The rest of the stories here are packed with great information about computers and smartphones. I am sure you will find something here that will be of great value to your technology needs. Be sure and check out the the Technology Buying Guide story. Its filled with good tips for buying every kind technology.

I hope you enjoy this first blog of 2012. - JRC

Rumored three iPad model lineup could cut entry price to $299

The rumored expansion of iPad models this year may reduce the price of entry for owning an Apple tablet, if a new report is to be believed.

Verizon caves to public pressure and dumps $2 fee

Well, that was fast. Verizon Wireless caved to pressure from outraged consumers and a possible probe by the Federal Communications Commission and backed off of a plan to charge customers a $2 fee to pay their wireless bills online.

Android vs. iOS vs. Windows Phone 7: A mobile showdown

If you're a first-time smartphone shopper or a current smartphone shopper approaching an upgrade, you may be curious about the mobile platforms that are available. Everyone knows about the iPhone and iPad, and everyone knows about "Droids" (Android is the platform, Droid is one specific brand on Verizon). Often overlooked is the newcomer, Windows Phone. How do the three mobile operating systems stack up?

What is LTE?

So, what is LTE? Verizon Wireless, in its advertisements, will tell you that it is the fastest, most advanced network. AT&T will say it is the next generation of wireless technology. But that doesn’t say much, now does it?

Your New PC: What You Need to Know

There are programs on the hard drive you should get rid of, and other things you should add immediately. If you haven't yet been introduced to Windows 7, or it's been a while since you've set up a new machine, we'll walk you through it all in these 12 simple steps.

Best Downloads for Windows - Starter Kit

For your downloading pleasure, CNET has compiled its list of all the best applications for PCs. We offer up some classic big hitters, as well as a few lesser-known apps that we plucked from obscurity. Also, we did our best to cover the most commonly searched download categories such as utilities, security, image editing, and file sharing.

The Ultimate Guide to Technology Buying

Here you'll find links to all of the recent buying guides, telling you exactly what you need to look for when you shop for a particular type of product. All you need to find the right technology to start the new year is right here.

Disk Investigator 1.61 (Windows) Free

Disk Investigator helps you to discover all that is hidden on your computer hard disk. It can also help you to recover lost data. Display the true drive contents by bypassing the operating system and directly reading the raw drive sectors.

Jim’s Gifts for Computer Users

It’s become an annual tradition that I distribute free gifts for all my readers…and 2011 is no exception. I’ve gather a collection of FREE computer, tablet, and smart phone applications that I use and have found exceptionally handy. Be sure and go through the list as I am sure there is something here for you.

One of my new favorites is “Feedly” that turns Google Reader into a magazine format. So much easier to read and spot what’s important to you. I’ve got it on my computers and smart phone.

A similar program is “Currents” from Google. It’s a magazine reader using your favorite sites. Sadly, it only works on Android devices, iPads, and iPhones. But don’t lose heart. There are lots of computer applications below.

Another favorite is new, but I can’t imaging browsing without it. It’s called “Clearly” and is made by the folks at Evernote. There is a version for both Firefox and Chrome browsers. It takes a Web page, cleans out all the extraneous garbage and gives you and easily readable article with no distractions. I really love this one!

I’ve also includes some summaries of Top Downloads and Websites of 2011 that you can look for more tools. I hope you enjoy your gifts. (Note like most of the tech world, I am taking next week off to enjoy the holidays. I will return, of course in January. Until then…Happy Holidays to one an all!!)

Firefox Add-On Feedly Corrals Your RSS and Twitter Feeds

(Note: this link is for the Firefox version only. But, Feedly is available for all browsers and smartphones.) If you want to follow too much news, but have too little time? Then you want the free Firefox add-in Feedly, which lets you assemble your own personalized online newspaper from countless information sources across the Web. To get the latest info all you need to do is head to your personal Feedly page, and it's all there, waiting for you, gathered via RSS and Twitter feeds.

Google Currents

(Note: This app is for all Android devices, iPhones, and iPads) From leading publications, to blogs you follow, you can browse, read, and share favorite content, presented in a swipable magazine format.

Simplify Web Page Viewing on Firefox with Evernote's Clearly Add-On

This is my favorite add-on for both Firefox and Chrome. Clearly is a browser add-on that strips the junk from web pages so they're easier to read has been brought to Firefox by the popular stash site Evernote. Previously available only for Google's Chrome browser, the add-on, Clearly, was released Wednesday for Mozilla's Firefox browser.

PC Shower 2011 - Free

It's a free bundle of useful tools for cleaning and tuning your PC. Unlike many free versions of premium tools, it actually cleans what it finds without requiring paid upgrades. Add in a variety of tweaks, tune-ups, and other system utilities and you have a versatile PC toolkit. That's what you get with Arafasoft's PC Shower 2011.

Google Earth

The latest version of Google Earth continues to set the mapping paradigm. Accessible enough for casual users, Google has added features that make it a necessity for those whose topographic desires are more serious. Although Google Ocean is the big newsmaker in version 5, you can also check out the surface of our nearest neighbor, Mars, as well as incorporating historical Earth maps.

Avast boards Android to protect your booty

Simply called Avast Mobile Security (download), this free app is based on the Theft Aware app that it acquired when Avast purchased ITAgents in September contains a robust suite of Android-specific security features, including malicious app scanning, premium SMS blocking, link scanning, anti-theft measures, and two features that only work on rooted devices.

Firefox 9: Faster on PCs, all-new on tablets

Mozilla is laying claim to big performance improvements for Firefox 9, while Firefox for Android goes in for a shave and a haircut as it gets an entirely different look. Both desktop and Android updates are being released today.

The Top 100 Websites of 2011

With plenty of favorites and new sites to explore, here's our annual look at the best the Web has to offer.

Top 10 tech breakthroughs of 2011

If your relationship with technology is anything more than the most fleeting of acquaintances, you have no doubt realized that technological advances are accelerating at an exponential rate.

Announcing the Top 11 Downloads of 2011

In 2011, we've taken the honors up the proverbial notch with the Top 11 Downloads of 2011, featuring the 11 most popular software apps each for the Windows and Mac platforms, along with the 11 most popular programs in each of the 11 most popular categories in Windows and in Mac.

What to do when your smartphone craps out before the contract ends

Ask Maggie offers some advice for how to protect yourself.

Facebook Timelines: How to Get Started

Facebook Timelines are now available worldwide, allowing users to tell their entire life stories through the social network. Facebook announced Timelines in September, but rolled the feature out slowly. If you're just getting Timelines now, or want to speed up the switch from your existing profile, here's what you need to know.

Congress and Hollywood Team Up to Destroy the Net

Anti-piracy laws will smash internet, US constitution

Legal experts are warning that the proposed PROTECT IP and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) legislation, currently working their way through Congress, will damage the world's DNS system, cripple attempts to get better online security and violate free speech rights in the US constitution…and all this for the folks in Hollywood.

AT&T abandons bid for T-Mobile

AT&T said today that it has withdrawn its bid to acquire T-Mobile USA in a deal worth $39 billion. The company said it would take a $4 billion charge in the fourth quarter as part of the break-up fee with Deutsche Telekom.

Sprint disabling Carrier IQ on phones

Sprint, which for weeks has defended its use of Carrier IQ software on mobile phones, is now disabling the software, a Sprint spokeswoman confirmed today.

Facebook Kept 1,200 Page File On 24-Year-Old

Facebook retains tons of data on its users, but exactly how much? Apparently, more than enough to fill a volume of "Atlas Shrugged." A 24-year-old Austrian law student asked Facebook to send him all the personal data it had on him. (Anyone with a residence outside North America has the right to see all the personal data a company has on him or her.) Here’s what Facebook sent Schrems: a CD filled with 1,222 PDF pages of data.

Steve Jobs: 20 Life Lessons

Having finished the 600-plus page Steve Jobs biography by Walter Isaacson, I think I finally understand Steve Jobs. Like most of us, his personality had many sides. He could be aloof, super-intense, odd, gross, passionate, creative, driven, unfair, conciliatory and deeply introspective. He lived a rich and unique life.

How to Protect Your Online Privacy

These days it often feels like online privacy is an unattainable illusion. While it is true that it’s impossible to be entirely anonymous while online there are many things you can do to greatly increase your privacy.

12 Great Tips to Scan Your Family Pictures

Get that shoebox of old photos from grandma's closet and turn them into digital files. We have 12 great tips to scan your family pictures.

To-Do Manager Astrid Updates Android and iOS Apps with a New UI and Featured Lists

Popular mobile to-do manager Astrid took the wraps off of its new Android and iPhone apps recently, completely overhauling the interface to make it easier to get right to the items you're working on, see all of the related information around a specific item, and featured lists from some of the developers' favorite sites to help you add some fun and time-saving projects to your list.

With ‘Google Earth’ for Mars, Explore the Red Planet From Home

A new software tool developed by the HiRISE team in the UA's Lunar and Planetary Lab allows members of the public to download high-resolution images of the Martian landscape almost instantaneously and explore the surface of the Red Planet from their own desktops.

Microsoft Drops Gadgets and a Possible Cell Phone Ban

The holidays have traditionally been a slow time for technology news…but not this year. We are full to the brim with tech stories that folks like you and me (the non-nerds)will find interesting.

There is one item I found that is not in the news this week…probably because it is old news and I just missed it. Microsoft has stopped putting out “Gadgets” for the Windows 7 Desktop. There is still a one page listing of a few Gadgets, but the vast majority are not longer available. That is too bad as I have 4 gadgets on my desktop now that are most useful…time, date, weather, and a menu of my most used programs. Too bad, because if I get a new computer, I may be screwed.

For the rest of the today’s news in tech, read on from here. - JRC

Regulators Call for National Cell-Phone Ban While Driving

The National Transportation Safety Board voted unanimously Tuesday to recommend a first-ever nationwide ban on the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices while driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 35 states have already banned text messaging by all drivers and nine states now prohibit all hand-held cell phone use while driving.

Federal authorities open Carrier IQ investigation into phone tracking

U.S. federal authorities, including the FTC and the FCC, are investigating Carrier IQ to see whether consumer rights or privacy was invaded.

Microsoft to begin automatic Internet Explorer upgrades in 2012

In a major policy change, Microsoft plans to deliver IE upgrades automatically to Windows users. That moves IE incrementally closer to its fast-paced competitors, although there are still enough exceptions to keep enterprise users happy.

Microsoft Shows Security Improvements with 2011 Patch Tuesdays

Microsoft Relevant Products/Services on Tuesday issued 13 security Relevant Products/Services bulletins. Only three were rated critical. That's a small reprieve since IT Relevant Products/Services admins expected 14 bulletins -- the fix for the so-called Beast attack did not make it into this release.

New Hotmail Version Now Fully Deployed

To say that Microsoft has been on a torrid release schedule when it comes to upgrading its cloud-based services is a bit of an understatement. Today, the company revealed that it has completed deploying the latest version of its Hotmail email service, so all customers are now on the new version. As a bonus, there is also a new Android App for Hotmail.

Amazon selling more than a million Kindles per week

It's going to be a Kindle kind of holiday for many folks around the globe. Amazon.com today said that it is selling Kindles at a rate of more than one million per week - marking the third consecutive week that it has topped that milestone.

From Netflix to iTunes: What to expect in 2012

The best stories in digital media are ending the year with some compelling cliffhangers.

Setting up a temporary ‘ad hoc’ network

When you need a quick way to share files between two Windows PCs that aren’t normally connected, an ad hoc wireless network is the way to go. Everything you need is already built into Windows 7, Vista, and XP. Here’s how to set up an ad hoc network on wireless PCs.

Top 100 Free Apps For Your Phone

No matter which smartphone you own or are choosing to buy, the apps that are available for it can have an enormous influence on whether you're ultimately happy with your phone.

Pirates Everywhere Inside Hollywood Studios

Ever wonder if the Hollywood entertainment industry holds itself to the same standards it expects from us? Guess what…the biz is rife with in-house pirates. So before they demand Congress to pass borderline unconstitutional laws to stops piracy, they need to look at their own piracy. Love it when we catch hypocrites.

In other stories, the FBI may be investigating Carrier IQ for illegal wiretaps; a report on the hard disk shortage; a look at Microsoft’s newest tool that scans for all bad things on your computer before the system boots up; and much much more. Enjoy! -JRC

Busted: BitTorrent Pirates at Sony, Universal and Fox

After some initial skimming we’ve discovered BitTorrent pirates at nearly every major entertainment industry company in the US, including Sony Pictures Entertainment, Fox Entertainment and NBC Universal. Busted.

FBI May Be Gathering String on Carrier IQ

A Freedom of Information request asking for the FBI's records and info regarding embattled cellphone software maker Carrier IQ has been rejected. Why would the FBI refuse to say what it knows about the company? It's also possible the FBI is investigating Carrier IQ, which has drawn accusations of violating the Wiretap Act.

How bad is the hard disk shortage?

A report last week from IHS-iSuppli said it's pretty bad--a preview of what Intel said today. That is, the flooding in Thailand will hit PC shipments in the first quarter. iSuppli says the shortfall will be about 3.8 million PCs.

FCC (finally) cracks down on BLARING! TV! ADS!

The US Federal Communications Commission has issued rules requiring television broadcasters and cable and satellite providers to maintain constant volume levels for programs and commercials.

Twitter Trades Simplicity for Sophistication

Twitter's site redesign may cause a bit of consternation among users who already liked what the website had going for it, but the company hopes its base will grow more accepting as they use the new tools -- and that the new interface will encourage holdouts to join.

What’s the Most Secure Web Browser?

A new Google-funded study of browser security by security research firm Accuvant Labs crowned Chrome the champion of security features, and ranked Firefox below Internet Explorer in terms of protection available from web-borne threats. Keep in mind when you read this that Google funded this study.

Speed up Windows 7 and make it more beautiful

These tweaks may not be enough to convince Mac owners to switch from Mac OS X, but they sure do make Windows a lot more fun and eye-catching!

Windows Defender Offline beta tool removes malware before startup

Microsoft has released a new beta tool called Windows Defender Offline that's designed to scan for spyware and viruses prior to Windows startup, which could make it effective against malicious software, like rootkits, that can be difficult to remove while the OS is running. Free, of course.

Apple and Book Publishers Collusion Under Investigation

It’s taken longer than I expected but finally Apple’s and the major book publishers are under investigation for price fixing and driving up prices on e-books. It was so obvious what they did when the first iPad was released that I am surprised it took so long. I truly hope some good can come out of this and that consumers can benefit.

In other stories, there is more news on Carrier IQ, an update on the release date of the Windows 8 Beta…and, no surprise here, AT&T is voted the worst cell phone carrier again. I was also intrigued by the story on what we can expect in the coming year for tablet computers. I am currently looking into getting one of these critters myself. There is also some good information on making your life better with technology…or something like that. So read on…-JRC  

DOJ, state AGs also investigating possible e-book collusion

Following a similar announcement by the European Commission on Tuesday, the Department of Justice confirmed on Wednesday that it is also conducting an investigation into allegations that e-book publishers conspired with Apple to keep e-book prices from bottoming out. The DOJ has reportedly been investigating the situation for possible antitrust violations since publishers successfully pressured Amazon into adopting an agency model last year.

Carrier IQ: Not so invasive after all

A second researcher concludes that Carrier IQ isn't so evil -- but smartphone makers/carriers should better respect user privacy

AT&T rated worst cell phone carrier for second year in a row

For the second year in a row, AT&T was ranked last in Consumer Reports' annual customer satisfaction survey. The company was hit especially hard by complaints over poor voice service and phone-based customer care. Even worse for AT&T, the company's 2011 rating is slightly lower than last year's.

Microsoft slates Windows 8 beta for late February 2012

Microsoft has confirmed that it will release a public beta of Windows 8 in late February, 2012. The company broke the news at a San Francisco developers event Tuesday, where the vice president of Windows Web services, touted Windows Store, the app market that will be the sole distribution channel for applications designed to run in Windows 8's new "Metro" interface.

Tablets in 2012: What to Expect

What will tablets look like in the coming year? Tablets are out of their infancy and moving into adolescence--which means that we can expect big changes ahead as tablets' design and components improve.

Ten tricks every Windows 7 power user should know

Are you a Windows 7 power user? Do you want to be? I've scoured my archive of tips, shortcuts, and secrets to find the hidden gems even some Windows experts don't know about. These aren't esoteric tweaks - they're honest-to-goodness productivity boosters that will save you time and keystrokes.

12 tips for better holiday photos

Before you start immortalizing your holiday gatherings of friends and family, learn to use your camera. Celebrate the new year by taking it off auto. Party in a priority mode.

Free Image Convert and Resize

Free Image Convert and Resize is a compact yet powerful program for batch mode image processing. The program easily converts separate images as well as file folders containing images into different graphic formats, renames, reorders them and changes their size in accordance with the set parameters

Carrier IQ Continuing Coverage…and Much Much More

Hard technology news stories are hard to come by in the holiday season. And this year is no exception…except for biggest story of the year about how our cell phones are bugged by Carrier IQ. It may not turn out to be so big, but it also could be the #1 story of the year that may involve criminal activities. Congress is now involved and lawsuits are just beginning…so we are still in the early stages of this possible scandal.

Rather than bog this newsletter down with lots of stories covering all the angles, the first story is a gathering of many stories about Carrier IQ and what it means to you. Doing that allows me to publish other stories that also may be of interest. But, be sure and check out this out, then read the inside stories that you find of interest. - JRC

Carrier IQ: How big a threat is it?

The maker of the software that monitors smartphone performance is facing increasing scrutiny, following a security researcher's report on Carrier IQ. Here is a large collection of stories about Carrier IQ covering all aspects of this extremely controversial subject.

Firefox may be down, but it's not out

Don't cue the funeral dirge yet. Firefox has redeeming values, including its non-alignment with online advertising -- unlike Microsoft and Google

Windows 8 will be 'largely irrelevant' to traditional PC users

“Windows 8 will be largely irrelevant to the users of traditional PCs, and we expect effectively no upgrade activity from Windows 7 to Windows 8 in that form factor...” according to IDC predictions for this coming new year.

Pointless Internet Surfing: It's the American Way

Got nothing better to do? Go online! According to Pew Research, that's what more than half of America already does

Password Protection: How to Create Strong Passwords

The problem is that passwords should be different everywhere you use them, and that can make it difficult to remember them all. And, if a password is truly strong, that makes it even more difficult.

iTunes Match vs. Google Music vs. Amazon Cloud Drive

which system do you want to live with? It's a choice you can't make lightly because these companies don't play nice with each other. Once you've adopted one, it's hard to switch. If this were the Music Cloud Wars, then Apple's iTunes Match would be winning – but not by much. Here's a quick primer, along with a few ways to get in and around their digital barriers.

Roku 2 XS Review - Watch CNET's Video Review

Thanks to a varied range of content offerings--including Netflix, Amazon, Hulu Plus, Crackle, and Pandora--that beats the Apple TV, the Roku 2 XS is the best all-around streaming-media box you can get for less than $100. I believe that as I own one.

EssentialPIM - Probably the Best Personal Information Manager

I've been relying on Microsoft Outlook for my email, calendaring and contacts management for many years, but some folks can't afford to pay the hundred bucks or so that it costs. Or you might use web mail and have no need for an email client, but still want a way to manage appointments and contacts with the look and functionality of Outlook. If so, Essential PIM is a viable, free alternative that lets you color-code appointments, create tasks and notes, link contacts to appointments and link email messages to notes.

WinUtilities Free Edition

WinUtilities (Free) is a multi-functional system performance and optimization suite for Microsoft Windows. This collection of tools lets you supercharge your PC's performance, enhance its security, tweak and optimize its settings, and customize and personalize your screens.

Your Cell Phone May be Recording Everything You Do

The biggest scandal to hit the tech world in a long time is unfolding as we speak. It was discovered this week that 142 million cell phones are infected with spying software called “Carrier IQ,” manufactured by a company of the same name. It records and transmits every phone call you make, every keystroke, every text message and maybe even every photograph you take. It is hidden in the operating system of the phone using rootkit technology, making it virtually impossible to find unless you are an expert using special tools. You will not find it as an installed application, even if it is present.

Here is what we know so far: Most Apple iPhones contain the spyware; cell carriers AT&T and Sprint, both admit they install it in phones; Verizon says they do not install it in any of their phones…ditto for Microsoft in their Windows Phones. It has been found in Blackberry phones, but the company denies ever putting it in. It is very prevalent in most Android phones, except perhaps those from Verizon, although that has not been verified yet. The bottom line is there is a very good chance your cell phone is infected with this spying software, even though you never gave your permission.

Every day, new revelations about Carrier IQ are forthcoming. The company itself says the software helps phone carriers monitor what is happening on their networks to help make improvements. At this point, we are not exactly sure the extent of the data the company has and how they use it. When the fellow who uncovered the spyware went public, Carrier IQ threatened immediate legal action if he didn’t stop publishing his articles. When the Electronic Frontier Foundation entered the picture, Carrier IQ immediately backpedaled on their threats and began their public relations campaign to look saintly. 

Members of Congress are now involved and are speculating that the software may be in violation of privacy laws, making Carrier IQ open for criminal prosecution. 

I plan to keep you informed of new revelations as they come forth. And, just so you know its not all gloom and doom out there, I have included a few other stories with more positive content.  -JRC

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