Is Microsoft Forcing Windows 10 Down Our Throats?

This week, Microsoft is making more news than anyone else (next week is Apple’s Turn). Our first story, entitled Microsoft’s Year of Living Dangerously, author Paul Thurrott makes the case that the company is skating on a thin line by forcing Windows 10 aggressively on Windows 7 and 8 users…and he may be right.

Many folks have reported their computers were upgraded to Windows 10 when they weren’t looking and didn’t ask for it. Others are being nagged on a regular basis to upgrade. Some of these claims may be slightly exaggerated, but there is definitely some truth to them.

Microsoft admits they are being very aggressive in pushing Windows 10…perhaps too aggressive. They may be damaging their reputation at the very least…and pissing off a whole lot of people. And some people’s computers may be not working well anymore because of the upgrade. It is a dangerous thing to upgrade an operating system without some proper planning such as making backups before doing it.

I have no complaints as I could not wait to get Windows 10 on all my PC’s. I was an early tester...and long-time readers know how angry I was when it took months to get the upgrade on my Samsung laptop. There is no doubt that Windows 10 is a much better operating system than past versions. But many people are just too scared to make the move…even though it is a free upgrade. I understand that.

As you know I recommend that most everyone make the move to Windows 10. But if you don’t want to, that is OK. But the fact remains that it is your decision, not Microsoft’s.

I will let you read the rest of the news and tech tips for yourself. Be sure and peruse the headlines carefully as I would not want you to miss something that could be useful to your computing needs. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Microsoft's Year of Living Dangerously

Three-quarters of the way through Windows 10’s first year, Microsoft is in danger of subverting its reputation, as well as the reputation of its flagship PC product. Microsoft is too-aggressively pushing Windows 10 on upgraders.

Windows 10 growth hits the brakes

After an explosive January, Windows 10's gains slow dramatically -- even though Microsoft has switched on upgrade auto-delivery.

 

Ballmer: I may have called Linux a cancer but now I love it

Former Microsoft chief Steve Ballmer once considered Linux users a bunch of communist thieves and saw open source itself as a cancer on Microsoft's intellectual property. But no more.

 

Microsoft takes another step toward Eclipse of proprietary software

Microsoft's membership in the Eclipse Foundation represents the company's commitment to transforming from a company fixated on proprietary software to one that embraces open source.

 

The feds want to keep your broadband provider's nose out of your online life

Companies say they're just trying to deliver more relevant ads, but consumer advocates contend we need stricter rules about what Internet providers can see.

 

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Microsoft's new tool makes it easy for Evernote users to switch to OneNote

Over they last few years, Microsoft has worked to transition OneNote from its initial lecture-hall focus into more of a note-taking app for your everyday needs. It’s latest move: pulling users away from competitor Evernote.

 

18 Things You May Not Have Known Google Photos Can Do

Google Photos bridges the gap between cloud storage, image hosting, and image sharing services, giving stiff competition to Flickr, iCloud, Dropbox, and OneDrive.

 

Flickr, Google Photos, Photobucket and iCloud: Which photo storage app is right for you?

Find out which photo-sharing and storage site best suits your needs with this deep dive into the top online photo services.

 

How to Add Safe Mode to the Windows 8 and 10 Boot Menu

For some reason, Windows 8 and 10 make Safe Mode hard to get to. Here’s a fix for that.

 

The Best Online Tax Preparation Software for 2016

If you're doing your own taxes, picking the right tax prep program is essential. Here's how the top services stack up.

 

Mobile Computing

Outlook for iOS now lets you protect your emails with Touch ID

In its latest update, the Microsoft Outlook app for iOS adds new support for Apple’s Touch ID sensor — meaning that you can set the app to let you read your messages only if you scan your fingerprint first.

 

App the vote: 9 mobile tools for election junkies

It's going to be an exciting election season. We've nominated several Android and iOS apps that can help you follow the races.

 

Avoid a phone bill shocker when going country-hopping

Everyone knows that using local SIM cards while traveling abroad is the cheapest option, but what if you're hitting multiple countries on your trip? CNET's Marguerite Reardon lays out your options.

 

Get Gmail features for Yahoo and Outlook accounts on Android

Want the spam protection and the powerful search powers of Gmail for your other email accounts? Here's how to get it.

 

Protect your Android phone from loss or theft

Every mugger and pickpocket in the world knows that your smartphone represents hundreds of dollars in hardware and information. Here's how to protect that asset.

 

How Android’s “Doze” Improves Your Battery Life, and How to Tweak It

Android phones and tablets will “sleep” when you leave them alone, conserving battery life for later. Doze is designed to get out of your way and just work, but you can tweak it and make it even better.

Snowden Again Calls FBI Liars Regarding iPhone

Sorry I am a little late about getting this blog out. March is a very busy time in Arizona with lots to do as our weather is so great. In the last few days I have been to 3 concerts and 2 major league spring training games in Phoenix area. Tomorrow is the 2-day Tucson Festival of Books. It is definitely the best time to be here in Southern Arizona.

So with that said, I will skip any further comments so I can get this blog up on line. Enjoy your weekend…and I wish you were here. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Snowden: FBI's claim about unlockable iPhone is 'bulls***'

The FBI is lying about its inability to hack into an iPhone used by a shooter in December's San Bernardino massacre, says the NSA whistleblower.

 

Microsoft fixes critical flaw affecting every version of Windows

The software giant said the flaws could allow an attacker to remotely run malware if a user opens specially crafted media content that's hosted on a website

 

How to Get Free (or Cheap), New Ebooks

How do you get the big-name authors in a digital form without it being illegal or waiting forever? Here's how.

 

Pay up or else: Ransomware is the hot hacking trend of 2016

There are steps you can take before forking over cash for vital files held hostage. Your results may vary.

 

Cloud computing: What's coming next

The development of cloud computing is still at a relatively early stage. Here's how it's likely to evolve over the next few years.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to Adjust the Volume for Individual Apps in Windows

Since Windows Vista, Windows has allowed you to change the volume for individual apps using its Volume Mixer. This can be useful if you have apps that always seem to play too loud or soft compared to everything else.

 

Heat doesn't kill hard drives. Here's what does

"Free-cooled" datacenters use ambient outside air instead of air conditioning. That lets us see how environment affects system components. Biggest surprise: temperature is not the disk drive killing monster we thought. Here's what is

 

Windows 10 tip: Hunt down battery-draining apps

Buried deep in the Settings app on a Windows 10 laptop or tablet is a list of apps and desktop programs that burn up your battery. You'll also find special Battery Saver settings that can extend your remaining battery life dramatically.

 

Windows 10 now shows ads on the lock screen — here’s how to kill them

The company telegraphed this move nearly a year ago, but has avoided actually pushing content until now.

 

What is instant online credit? Everything you need to know

There's a way to get easy money for Internet purchases. CNET breaks it down and helps determine whether it's right for you.

 

Mobile Computing

The Best Android Phones of 2016

Apple's iPhone not up your alley? Here's how to find the right Google-powered alternative, along with our top-rated Android phones.

 

How to sign up for Google's Project Fi

Google's wireless carrier ambitions are finally open to all, here's how to sign up.

 

How to Install and Move Android Apps to the SD Card

If you have an Android phone or tablet with a small amount of storage, you probably keep uninstalling apps to make room for other ones. But there is a way to expand the storage of an Android device if it has an SD card slot.

 

Create a secure, encrypted backup of your iPhone or iPad

While cloud backups are quick and easy, if you want total control over your iPhone or iPad backups, the only way to do it is to make encrypted local backups. Here's how to do just that.

Google Photos update arrives with support for Apple's Live Photos

Google Photos – a free, and powerful, photo management tool – has just received a new update sure to please owners of Apple’s latest devices.

Take a Look at What Apple is Building in Cupertino.

Instead of analyzing or commenting on serious tech news, I will take a different tact today. Our first two stories are about the new Apple headquarters complex currently under construction in Cupertino, CA. It is a multi-billion dollar project that is about one year away from completion.

If you have not seen the plans, it is going to be a huge circular facility that can house 12,000 employees. It looks much like a giant flying saucer that has landed in Silicon Valley. No, the picture above is not the top of the whole complex. This amazing piece of construction is only the roof of the theater that will host Apple events. By itself it is a superior piece of engineering…one piece only, weighing in at 80 tons (see story #2).

But to see the entire facility, take a look at our first story. Apple has hired a company to fly drones equipped with cameras over the new campus every so often to document the progress of the new complex. This latest video, shot a few days ago, is the best one yet. It is in high definition with text that explains what you are seeing. I urge you to watch it in full screen mode. It is a marvelous bit of film making  and will give you a good view of the new Apple campus and how it is laid out. The whole thing is a marvel of creative engineering.

With that said, I will let you take over from here. Enjoy! -JRC 

 Tech News and Opinions

Check Out This Apple Campus 2 Flyover Video

The most recent video, captured by drone, shows progress on the spaceship-like main building, the fitness center, parking structures, R&D facility and theater. Once completed, the Apple Campus 2 will house some 12,000 employees. –JRC: Be sure and watch it in full screen mode. It is stunning!

 

Apple Offers First Look at Its New Theatre for Product Launches

Here is a first look at the new Theatre being built at Apple Campus 2. The building will serve as the venue for future Apple product launches.

Apple e-book price fixing case won't reach the Supreme Court

The court won't hear Apple's attempt to overturn a $450 million payout.

 

Microsoft pushes back Windows 10 'Redstone' 2 to Spring 2017 to line up with new Microsoft device wave

Microsoft's second major set of new features for Windows 10, known as 'Redstone 2,' are now a spring 2017 deliverable, meant to coincide with a new wave of Windows 10 hardware.

 

Microsoft is trying to bring back the '80s with its Windows 10 strategy

Microsoft, which keeps boasting about how much it loves selling cloud services and subscriptions, is suddenly investing so much in hardware like the HoloLens and the Surface. If no new IBM PC will come along like in 1981, Microsoft will just have to build it itself.

Computer Tips and Tricks

PC upgrades: Getting the biggest bang for your buck

What follows are the best and worst types of PC upgrades you can spend money on, along with an idea of how much the upgrade will set you back.

 

Google Docs just made it a lot easier to view your documents on most e-readers

A small but potentially useful update for budding authors using Google Docs: you can now export your musing as .epub files – one of the most popular open formats for ebooks.

 

31 Google Drive Tips You Can't Afford to Miss

Google's online office suite and storage service has come a long way, becoming the tool of choice for many. Here's a list of tips and tricks to squeeze the best out of Drive.

 

18 Hidden Firefox Functions for Browsing Like a Boss

If you've been lured away by other browsers in recent years, Firefox is a far sexier beast than the one you may remember.

 

7 ways Windows 10 pushes ads at you, and how to stop them

Windows 10 may be “free,” but there’s a price to pay for claiming your no-cost upgrade from Windows 7 or 8: The operating system’s brimming with ads designed to coax you into buying this app or using that Microsoft service.

Mobile Computing

Best Free iPhone Apps: March 7 2016

Here is the lowdown on 10 paid iPhone and iPad apps that would normally cost you a total of $33 but that are all completely free for a limited time. Let’s check them out,

 

The 25 Best Free Android Apps

From bleeding-edge productivity to fun with friends, presenting 25 great, no-cost additions to your home screen.

 

Microsoft goes all in with Android apps for business

In the past year, Microsoft has been delivering apps at breakneck speed to the Google Play Store. Some are strictly for fun, but the majority are aimed at Microsoft's bedrock business customers. Here's an overview of what you'll find for your Android phone.

 

5 great Android app alternatives to Gmail

Gmail is great, but there are several other solid alternatives for consolidating all your email accounts into one app.

 

Devastating Vulnerability Affects 66 Percent of Android Phones

Researchers show off a new attack that can seize control of most Android phones

Not Much to Get Excited About…But Some Good Tips

Sometimes the tech news is just plain boring. You would think it was December, but it is March. The only interesting thing going on is, of course, the battle between Apple and the FBI. But I’ve said all I am going to say on it for now…and you are probably sick of hearing it. And here is the bad new…it will probably go on for some time…all the way to the Supreme Court, I would imagine. Realistically, in the end, it will be the Congress that will make the final decision. That should make you cringe.

So enough of that. I am just going to say adios for this day and let you read the rest. Have a great weekend. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

 

Apple vs. the FBI: Catch up on the iPhone encryption hearing

Everything you need to know about Apple's big congressional hearing.

Apple scores iPhone legal victory that may help in FBI fight

A judge's ruling in a trial in New York may give Apple ammunition in its fight against the FBI to keep a security "back door" out of your iPhone.

 

AT&T will launch online-only packages for DirecTV this year

In an effort to appeal to cord cutters, AT&T will launch three new services that allow users to stream DirecTV online without an annual contract, satellite dish, or set-top box.

 

Do You Need a Digital Detox?

Want to increase your overall productivity and well-being? With The National Day of Unplugging coming up, here's what you need to know to take a technology break the right way.

 

DOD to invite security experts to Hack the Pentagon

The cyber bug bounty program is a first for the federal government, but you'll need to undergo a background check

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

 

The Best Free Antivirus Utilities for 2016

Malware and hackers are more sophisticated and more dangerous than ever, and it's up to you to protect yourself. Our top free antivirus utilities can help.

 

Windows 10 tip: Access symbols, emojis, and other special characters

Entering special characters, including foreign currency symbols, fractions, and emoji, is a cumbersome task on most physical keyboards. Use this hidden Windows 10 option to open an on-screen keyboard that puts all those options at your fingertips.

 

The Best Online Backup Services for 2016 - The Best Online Backup Services

You never know when your hard drive is going to crash, or when you're going to accidentally overwrite a key file. Use an online backup service to automatically and securely protect your documents, photos, and other media.

 

The Pros and Cons of Windows 10’s “Fast Startup” Mode

Windows 10’s Fast Startup (called Fast Boot in Windows 8) works similarly to the hybrid sleep mode of previous versions of Windows. By saving the operating system state to a hibernation file, it can make your computer boot up even faster, saving valuable seconds every time you turn your machine on.

 

Windows 10 May Delete Your Programs Without Asking

When you install a major Windows 10 update, you may reboot to find some of your programs missing. Yes, Windows 10 may remove your programs without asking you–but you can get them back pretty easily.

 

Mobile Computing

 

Make a pit stop, take a detour with Google Maps for iOS

Google Maps now makes it easier to add a pit stop or detour to your trip. Google Maps for Android added this ability last fall, and now the feature has arrived for iOS.

 

iOS 9.3 will tell you loud and clear if your employer is monitoring your iPhone

In the next iteration of its smartphone operating system, iOS 9.3, Apple is looking to make this an easier task. Tthe latest beta of iOS 9.3 has a message telling users their iPhone is being supervised.

 

How to quickly enable Low Power mode on your iPhone or iPad

Apple's Low Power Mode is one of my favorite iOS 9 features: It automatically offers to turn itself on when your battery hits 20 percent, and disables some of your iPhone's more processor-and-battery-intensive tasks.

 

Top 20 Android apps and games of the month

Android a bigger priority than it used to be for many more app developers: in 2016, lots of prominent new apps debut simultaneously on Android and iOS, with some even appearing on Android first.

 

The Best Cheap Cell Phone Plans You've Never Heard Of

There are a lot of smartphone options beyond the big four carriers in the US. If you're looking to save money, these lesser-known plans might be the ticket.

Updates on This and That

Apple and the FBI will make their pitches to Congress today or tomorrow about their current standoff on hacking an iPhone . In our next blog, we will give you a summary. Realistically, this whole issue is a cover for giving the FBI, CIA, and NSA a backdoor keys to all our phones so law enforcement can break in to a phone whenever they want.

Speaking of Apple their next big event is on March 21. This conference is mostly for developers, but the first keynote address is where Apple lets us in on what is happening and what we can expect in the near future. The next Microsoft event is Build and will begin on March 30. Like Apple, their first keynote address will be where they make their big announcements for the year.

But both companies have problems…all being pointed out by some of their best supporters in the tech journalist press. Microsoft has been thoroughly raked over the coals for the Windows Store, which really is not very good.

Apple has been accused of delivering mediocre, if not bad applications and not fixing them. Product include Apple Mail, iTunes, the new Photos app and a few more. And frankly, I agree with the criticism of both giant companies. Maybe we shall hear about forthcoming fixes these criticisms at their forthcoming March events.

Both Google and Bing have already predicted the winners of today’s Super Tuesday conference. According to them, the winners are already in so there is no suspense left. Not sure why folks should even bother to vote.

Well those are my updates for this day. But there is much more here in this blog to get your fingers around, so have at it!

Tech News and Opinions

US report confirms Ukraine power outage caused by cyberattack

A Homeland Security unit said the cyberattack was "synchronized and coordinated," and was likely carried out "following extensive reconnaissance of the victim networks."

 

Apple's new 9.7-inch tablet to lose 'iPad Air' branding in favor of iPro Pro

Apple is making major changes to its iPad line, after tablet sales in the Christmas quarter fell off.

 

SanDisk's Extreme 510 Portable SSD is small, fast and tough

This $249 portable SSD is built to withstand hard drops and raindrops alike. Includes a short video.

 

13 Hidden Roku Tricks for Streaming Success

Whether you just got a Roku or you've had one for years, there's more to know beyond the basics of watching Netflix and catching up with "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee" on Crackle. We've put together 13 ways for you to get more out of your Roku.

 

MLB star Mike Trout is using a smart bat at spring training

"Sports tech company Zepp has developed the Smart Bat, which measures and tracks different aspects of your swing, including impact speed, angle, swing duration and more.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Office 365 Unlimited OneDrive Storage Ends On March 1 2017

When they announced that they would be reverting the unlimited option back to 1TB, the company did not announce when this 12-month countdown would go being but now we know that it is March 1, 2017.

 

3 ways to speed up Windows 10 without buying new hardware

Why wait? A few simple tweaks will improve Windows 10's performance without an expensive hardware upgrade

11 Microsoft Word hacks you won't know how you lived without

While you might look at the program as a familiar annoyance that’s been around since your middle school days, you can get some serious work done with it if you know how to use it correctly.

 

The Best Cloud Storage and File-Syncing Services for 2016

Using the cloud means always being able to access your most important digital assets, whether they're Word documents, spreadsheets, or photos. We've rounded up the best choices for keeping your files within reach.

 

What’s the Best Way to Back Up My Computer?

Everyone loses data at some point in their lives. Your computer’s hard drive could fail tomorrow, ransomware could hold your files hostage, or a software bug could delete your important files. If you’re not regularly backing up your computer, you could lose those files forever.

 

Mobile Computing

Turn-by-Turn Navigation Showdown: Google Maps vs. Waze

Back in 2013, Google bought Waze, but has kept Google Maps and Waze separate for the most part. They share data occasionally, but otherwise they’re totally different apps with different functions and different navigation tricks.

How to Use a USB Flash Drive with Your Android Phone or Tablet

Most modern Android devices support standard USB drives, so you can plug in a flash drive just like you would on a computer.

 

Adobe Lightroom lets you shoot RAW - but only on Android

Adobe Lightroom 2.0 for Android adds a full-fledged camera interface with a standard set of controls like flash, white balance, exposure compensation and a shutter control. And now...RAW photography.

 

Take Better Photos of Your Food With This App

The app provides 24 different filters and lets the user know when the camera is directly above the subject.

25 Useful iPhone Apps ready for Download

What can you get if you’re not willing to spend anything at all? Surprisingly, quite a lot; as our selection shows, fantastic free iPhone and iPad apps are available for all manner of tasks, from sprucing up photos and composing music through to keeping fit and exploring the world.

 

Microsoft's Office 365 update: Now you get camera, pinning, ink jotting on mobile

Microsoft's Office 365 update delivers a host of new features to enhance people's experience on mobile devices

Thank God March is Almost Here

I must admit I get tired listening and reading all talk about Apple vs. The FBI. It is definitely a big story and needs to be heard. On Thursday, March 26, the two sides will square off in court to present their arguments. But, don’t look for any decision until sometime in March. The wheels of justice grind ever so slow.

I shared my opinion about the brew-ha-ha in our last edition so I will refrain from any more rhetoric on the subject. However, our first three stories will give you more insight into the whole thing. 

In other news, the week-long Mobile World Conference wraps up at the end of the week. This is the largest mobile technology show in the world and there are many new phones, tablets and other devices being shown there. Apple and Microsoft are no-shows, as usual. So the phones being shown there are all Android. Story #4 will give you all the news that is fit to print about the show.

As I said in the headline, I am glad that March is almost upon us. Why? Because other big stories that don’t involve the courts and lawsuits will take place inside those 31 days. Both Apple and Microsoft have one each of their annual events taking place in March, and many new products, along with a few surprises, with be announced. As a user of both Microsoft and Apple products, I look forward to these shows with eager anticipation.

There are other good stories here, not to mention tips and tricks for all your techy gadgets. So have at it…and enjoy the upcoming weekend. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Apple to argue First Amendment in iPhone encryption fight

To prevent the unlocking of an iPhone linked to the San Bernardino terrorist shootings, Apple's attorneys will assert that computer code should be protected as free speech.

 

Apple reportedly working to harden iOS security in response to FBI dispute

According to a new report, Apple is already hard at work on creating new security measures to further protect iOS devices from the type of workaround at issue in the company's current dispute with the FBI.

 

Rallies Take Place in Over 50 US Cities to Support Apple in FBI Case

Following on from limited protests in California last week, rallies extended from Albuquerque to Washington DC to support Apple's insistence that complying with the bureau's demands risked compromising the security of millions of users' data

 

Mobil World Congress 2016

Here are all the major products and stories coming out of this year's Mobil Congress going on in Barcelona, Spain. Lot of new phones and other devices.

 

Microsoft's new tally for Windows 10: 200 Million

The number includes not only personal computers and tablets, but also Xbox One video game consoles and smartphones now running a preview of Windows 10 Mobile.

Computer Tips and Tricks

Three easy ways to paste plain text into Word

Pasting formatted text from the web can often be a hassle—but not if you use these tricks.

 

Use voice commands to write and format text with Google Docs

Google Docs added voice typing last year, but you can now use it to edit and format your document.

 

Why You Should Upgrade Your Router (Even If You Have Older Gadgets)

Many people have the attitude that it doesn’t matter if their router is older because their phone, laptop, or other wireless gear isn’t cutting edge anyways. Even if you don’t have brand new tech toys you still benefit from upgrading a dated router.

 

Windows 10 telemetry secrets: Where, when, and why Microsoft collects your data

How does Windows 10 telemetry really work? It's not a state secret. I've gone through the documentation and sorted out the where, when, and why. If you're concerned about private documents accidentally leaving your network, you might want to turn the telemetry setting down.

 

10 ways to customize the taskbar in Windows 10

We were all excited to get the Start menu back in Windows 10, and we wasted no time in customizing it to the best of our abilities. But what about the poor, neglected taskbar, who never left us in the first place? Here's how to make the taskbar look pretty and work for you.

Mobil Computing

How to use iMessage for iPhone and iPad

iMessage lets you send text, pictures, videos, sound, location, and more—right from your iPhone and iPad!

 

8 Android voice commands that are actually really useful

Everyday Android tasks like setting an alarm or getting Google Maps directions are often easier to do with voice commands than by swiping and tapping.

 

Adobe brings Lightroom for Android up to par

Adobe released an update to Photoshop Lightroom for Android that puts the free image-editing and -organizing app on equal footing with the iOS version.

 

Morgan Freeman Waze GPS navigation system

Morgan Freeman is finally a GPS navigation voice. The actor will be lending his reassuring voice to Google’s app Waze. Well, for a limited time.

 

8 Android voice commands that are actually really useful

Everyday Android tasks like setting an alarm or getting Google Maps directions are often easier to do with voice commands than by swiping and tapping.

 

How to quickly rid your inbox of junk mail with a single iPhone app

If you’re looking for a better way to manage email subscriptions and junk mail, your life is about to get a whole lot better. Unroll.me is an iPhone app that lets you quickly triage and manage all your subscriptions in one place.

Apple vs. The FBI…I’m on Apple’s Side

In spite of all the headlines that make Apple sound like a villain who supports terrorism, this is a very complicated issue…for more complex than you can imagine. In simple terms, the FBI wants Apple to simply unlock a phone used by one of the two Muslim nut jobs who killed all those people in San Bernardino a few months ago.

First of all, this phone did not belong to the terrorists. They destroyed their phones before the attack. This phone belongs to the San Bernardino County Health Department who employed one of the killers. It is encrypted, like all iPhones. Even Apple cannot undo or break that encryption. The FBI wants to try it themselves. All they want Apple to do is write a simple program that unlocks the phone.

For those of you who own an iPhone, you know the device is unlocked when you enter a 4 digit passcode that only you know. Apple does not know it. This 4 digit code has over 10,000 permutations…but if you attempt to unlock it using random numbers, the phone will brick itself after 10 incorrect entries. Then no one will ever get in.

The only way for Apple to help the FBI get into it is to write a special program for the FBI that will unlock the phone and shut down all the security protections Apple has built into the phone…which is what the court ordered Apple to do.

The problem is if that program is given to the FBI, they now have access to almost every iPhone in the world. Then every iPhone becomes completely insecure. Not only that, if that program gets into the wild, well you can guess the rest. Think it can’t happen? With the government’s track record of security, I guarantee you that this program will soon be in the hands of bad people. Your iPhone would become an open book for all to exploit.

It is extremely doubtful that the FBI will be able to decrypt the phone, even if they get into it. Apple has one of the finest encryption programs in the world. Not only that, it is extremely doubtful that if they could decrypt it, they would find anything useful. The good stuff was probably on the phones the killers destroyed. Not only that, but the two terrorists are dead, so the info is not going to be used in any prosecution. So do you want your iPhone put at risk for such a dubious undertaking? I sure don’t.

There is much more to it than I have explained here. I suggest you read the first two stories to get more facts. Besides this issue, there is more here  today that can help you (hopefully) with your computing needs. Enjoy. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Apple vs. FBI: Here's everything you need to know (FAQ)

A polarizing question: Should Apple help the FBI unlock a terrorist's phone?

 

Tim Cook Explains Feud With FBI In Email To Apple Employees

In the letter to Apple employees, Tim Cook has explained the company’s position, saying that giving in to the FBI’s demands would set a “dangerous precedent that threatens everyone’s civil liberties.”

 

What Apple could learn from Windows 10

Despite years of being criticized for copying Apple and for some of the missteps of Windows 8, Microsoft has increasingly shown a real sense of creative design in recent years.

 

Samsung launches Galaxy S7, S7 edge: Is it worth an upgrade?

Samsung's Galaxy S7, S7 edge launch provides a microSD storage option that disappeared with the Galaxy S6. Is that reason enough to upgrade?

We Asked Experts What Would Happen If Everything Was Encrypted

Would it even be possible? Security experts from Access Now and the Electronic Frontier Foundation weigh in.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

The Best Online Tax Preparation Software for 2016

If you're doing your own taxes, picking the right tax prep program is essential. Here's how the top services stack up.

 

7 Tips for Getting the Most Out of TurboTax

For many, it's a cold, horrible winter weekend. You might as well get them taxes done before April 15 sneaks up on you.

 

The Best Antivirus Utilities for 2016

It's critically important to keep your PC safe from viruses, malware, and other threats. These are the top-rated antivirus packages we've tested.

 

Find and recover Windows files

How to find recent downloads and other docs, and how to rescue deleted files.

 

4 Effective Strategies to Organize Evernote

First: figure out what your challenges are, and then decide which organizational system will best help get things done productively.

 

Mobil Computing

25 best Android tips to make your phone more useful

Android is the most popular computing platform in the world thanks in part to how fast it has evolved over the years. It can be hard to keep up with the new features, but here are 25 best tips for Android.

 

Google's Android has too many flavors and Apple isn't the only one who thinks so

The chief of Google's mobile software, must both fend off Apple and fight Android "fragmentation." His modus operandi: Lighten up, everyone.

 

The Best Productivity Apps for 2016

Buckle down and get productive with these excellent apps for managing your work, organizing your life, collaborating with teams, and much more. Lots of good info here.

 

How to use Clock for iPhone and iPad

Clock is one of the original apps that shipped with the original iPhone back in 2007. And here is everything you need to know about it

 

Turn off notifications from websites in Chrome on Android

Sometimes it is too easy to accidentally turn on notifications while browsing on your phone. Here's how to disable them.

Hollywood Hospital Freed from Hacker Bondage

In our last edition, I told you about a hospital in Hollywood, CA whose entire computer system was shut down and held hostage by some evil hackers. The soulless perpetrators demanded a ransom of $3.6 million to restore the system. The hospital used all their old fashioned analog systems like handwritten notes, paper patient files and all those things we did before computers to keep operating. They transferred some patients to other hospitals and did whatever they could to help their patients. They care about human life, unlike the hackers.

The shutdown was well into the second week when the hospital paid a ransom and got their system’s restored. Here is the interesting bit: The hackers did not get $3.6 million. Instead, they settled for about $17,000 in the form of 40 Bitcoins. There is no further information about why the hackers settled for so much less. My guess is this story drew such world-wide attention that they thought it best to take whatever they could get, then disappear as fast as they could. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies were all over this trying to track them down.

In other news, the Department of Defense has decided to migrate all 4 million of their computers over to Windows 10, all to happen within one year. Wow! That is a feather in the cap of Microsoft and a ringing endorsement of this new version of Windows. I believe the main reason is this new version is so secure as compared to previous versions. I am sure it was tested over and over before the order was placed. If you haven’t made the switch yet, this decision by the DOD should weigh heavily on your decision. You have six more months to get Windows 10 for free.

Well, that is enough out of me. I hope you find enough good information here to make this blog permanent reading. Thanks. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

U.S. DOD to Migrate 4 Million Seats to Windows 10 Within One Year

Windows 10 has received its most notable endorsement yet, with the U.S. Department of Defense committing to upgrade 4 million seats to Microsoft’s latest OS.

 

Apple's Tim Cook: We'll fight 'iPhone backdoor' demands from FBI

Apple CEO Tim Cook says the company will fight a court order that demands it make a custom version of iOS for the FBI.

 

American Airlines Is Suing Gogo Over Its Crappy Wi-Fi

The company wants to switch to the competing service used by JetBlue and Virgin America — but Gogo is digging in its heels.

 

Apple Surpassed 10% Share of Notebook Market in 2015 Amid Industry Decline

The latest data from research firm TrendForce shows that MacBook sales continue to gain momentum in an otherwise declining notebook market.

 

These Are the Companies That Send Out the Most Email Spam

It’s almost impossible to completely block out email spam. That said, if you know who the biggest culprits are, you know a good place to start.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

You can now log into Gmail without a Google account

Google is now letting you use Gmail without a Gmail account. If you’re still hanging onto that Hotmail or Yahoo email address, Google is letting you use its service.

 

Microsoft’s Outlook.com now has an overhauled look and features

Microsoft is adding 13 new themes to its email service. While the look is familiar, it's now more closely aligned to the look and feel of the desktop and Windows 10 versions of the Outlook app. It also looks a lot more like the Outlook web versions of Microsoft's Office 365 service.

 

The most reliable hard drives in 2015, according to Backblaze

Here's a surprise: Seagate hard drives may now be more reliable than Western Digital models, according to Backblaze's Hard Drive Reliability Review for 2015.

 

How to Configure the Windows 10 Weather App

Windows Weather App is still a popular way for people to quickly check in with the weather from their desktop. Here’s how to configure your app’s settings, manage your favorite’s list, and set up the live tile.

 

How to stop Google Chrome from running in the background

Google's browser is handy, but it's also a drain on your battery life. In fact it is one of the biggest battery drainers for laptops

 

Mobile Computing

How to Create an 'Unread' Folder in the iOS Mail App

In iOS 7, Apple introduced the option to add an "Unread" mailbox to the iOS Mail app, giving users a place to aggregate all incoming email for quick access. The feature was never widely publicized, and as a result, many iOS users today are unaware that it exists

 

Apple officially acknowledges iPhone bricking ‘1970 date’ bug

AppleCare has been flooded with people bringing in their devices after trying out this bug. The company says it will release an upcoming software update to prevent this issue from affecting iOS devices in the future.

 

Secret Mail shortcuts: Twelve gestures to speed up your iPhone email!

Mail is both simple and accessible to first time iOS users and powerful enough for pros. If you play around with it for a while, you'll discover a bunch of gesture shortcuts that can really speed up and expand your workflow.

 

Everalbum launches an Android version of its photo app to take on Google

Nearly four months after its public launch, Everalbum has announced that the photo-sharing and storage service now has an Android version of its app.

 

6 tips for mastering navigation on an Android or iOS device

You'll have an easier time finding your way around Android and iOS once you're hip to the hamburger menu, the overflow button, the action button, and more.

Congress Finally Does Something for Us

I know you think I am joking with that headline, but it is for real. The US Senate and the House have passed a bill that permanently removes any possibility for Internet Access Taxes. Now, this does not remove state sales taxes on products you buy from on-line retailers. I wish it did. But no provider of Internet access can ever charge a tax for selling you access to the Web or any other Internet service for that matter.

This tax-free access has been going on for years, but only with temporary bills that needed to be renewed every so often. Now it is a permanent ban. Hooray for that!

In other news, our first story is about some serious black hat hackers who have shut down a hospital for over a week now, demanding $3.6 million ransom to restore computer services. This is life-threatening hacking. If someone dies as a result of this, the hackers, if caught, could be charged with Murder One. And California still has the death penalty.

Well, not much else for me to say. So I will shut up and let you read on. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Hackers take hospital offline, demand $3.6m ransom

For more than a week, Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center has been in a state of emergency after a malware attack shut down the network unless a ransom of $3.6 million was paid.

 

Senate passes permanent ban on Internet access taxes

Congress had extended the moratorium several times since 1998, but supporters weren't able to pass a permanent ban until now.

 

Google is finally shutting down Picasa

Picasa is a photo-sharing and storing website that’s been in Google’s lineup since 2004. Ultimately, Google stopped rolling out any notable updates to the service, so it was only a matter of time until the photo website was shut down

 

Russia Dials Up the Crazy, Wants to "Ban" Windows

Following in the august footsteps of China, Russia is the latest totalitarian state that is publicly seeking to “ban” Microsoft Windows and replace it with less U.S.-centric technologies

 

Microsoft continues its pivot to being all about cloud services |

It's not over for Windows and devices. But Microsoft's future is increasingly about the cloud and subscriptions, as its financials and corporate priorities show.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to make Windows 10 faster: 5 ways to speed up your PC

Try these methods to make your machine zippier and less prone to performance problems.

 

How to Stop Windows 10 Apps From Running in the Background

Those new Windows 10 apps have permission to run in the background so they can update their live tiles, fetch new data, and receive notifications. They may drain some battery power. But you can control which apps are allowed to run in the background.

How to change the look of Windows 10's desktop with native settings or Aero Glass

When it comes to visual aesthetics, Windows 10 is reasonably configurable. You can adjust color schemes and backgrounds easily with these tools.

 

You Should Upgrade to 64-bit Chrome. It’s More Secure, Stable, and Speedy

Using Chrome on Windows? There’s a good chance you’re still using the 32-bit version. You should upgrade to the 64-bit version. It’s more secure–not to mention faster and more stable.

 

Move your Windows 10 libraries to a separate drive or partition

Physically separating programs and data protects them both and makes for easier backups. Its an idea worth considering.

 

Mobile Computing

Best new apps for iOS, Android and Windows: Serato Pyro, Fetch, and more

There's a whole fleet of great new apps that have dropped over the past seven days, many of which are more than capable of providing your ageing handset with a new lease of life.

 

The best news apps for Android

Android has a plethora of great apps to choose from thanks to the massive selection in the Google Play Store. But if you're looking to get your daily news fix, we recommend you check out this little lot.

 

Amazon Updates Its Kindle App With Interactive Magazines for iPad, Support for iPad Pro

Choose from a wide selection of books, newspapers, and magazines from Wall Street Journal, New York Times to Reader’s Digest.

 

Apple screen protector installation program now rolling out to Apple Stores

The program allows customers to get a Belkin screen protector carefully applied to their iPhone in store. At Apple Stores across America, customers can purchase a Belkin screen protector and have it applied in store by an Apple Store employee for free.

 

Every iPhone User Can Now Broadcast Live Video on Facebook

Facebook users can access the new feature by tapping the “Update Status” box at the top of their News Feed, which will reveal a new icon for live video.

Is Amazon’s Echo a Big Deal? It Just May Be

If you watched the Super Bowl last Sunday, you probably noticed that Amazon had a few ads during the game. There were five of them, I believe…all promoting the Amazon Echo. This was the first time ever that Amazon advertised during the “Big Game”…and since each ad cost $5 million, you have to believe Amazon is serious about promoting and selling the Echo.

Now, I do not own one and do not see myself getting one in the near future. But listening to people I know rave about it…well there has to be something to it. It is a revolutionary product and has a good chance of being a major success…especially as Amazon keeps adding to its capabilities on a nearly daily basis. I suggest you read our first article to learn more about it. PS: Click on this link to see all five ads and some hilarious outakes.

In other news, you will notice that there are three stories today about hacking and security. If you are a Windows user, be sure and read the first story in the Computer Tips section and update your computers ASAP.

Well I am off to start my weekend. Our temps here in Tucson are in the low 80’s now. I hope your weather is improving also. Have a great weekend! -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

How to use the Amazon Echo and why you should get one

As Amazon regularly adds new functionality, the Echo continues to grow more useful. In fact, it's now the most-used gadget in my home.

Hackers are trying to steal our tax refunds...again

Online thieves were recently able to get their hands on taxpayer identification numbers before the Internal Revenue Service detected the attack and shut it down.

 

Sorry, But Your Facebook Friends Don't Care About You

You can only count on four of them in a real "emotional crisis.

 

Opinion: We Need to Kill Voicemail...Now

Voicemail needs to die. It's an archaic time-waster and nobody likes it. But it hangs on, undead, with bits and pieces falling off but still ready to bite your ear off and chew on the gristle.

 

Hacker leaks thousands of FBI, DHS employees' details

A hacker has gained access to a database containing names, job titles, email addresses, and phone numbers of tens of thousands of government workers.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Every version of Windows hit by 'critical' security vulnerability

Microsoft said in its latest monthly security bulletin that users of Windows Vista and later, including Windows 10, should patch immediately to prevent a serious flaw in how the operating system handles certain files.

 

6 tips to keep your Facebook clean, secure and private

Review your security and privacy settings, and get rid of acquaintances cluttering your friends’ list.

 

10 Ways to Boost Your Wi-Fi Signal

You want the strongest wireless signal you can get from your router, wherever you are in your home. Here are some quick tips for achieving optimal reception.

 

Microsoft starts providing release notes for Windows 10 updates

Microsoft is starting to provide users with information about what is in the updates it's delivering for Windows 10, as oficials promised last Fall.

 

Yes, Windows 10 runs great on old hardware

Can you run Windows 10 on a PC that's eight years old? Oh yes, and it runs spectacularly well.

 

Mobile Computing

Microsoft now has 74 hardware partners pre-installing its apps on Android devices

Apps included in this arrangement include Word, Excel, OneDrive, OneNote, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Skype.

 

Almost no one is using Android Marshmallow, still

Launched in early October, Android 6.0 Marshmallow is on 1.2 percent of Android devices, according to the latest stats offered up by Google's Android Developer Dashboard. Of course, the fault lies with phone companies who don’t send out updates to their customers…the biggest reasons why the Marshmellow numbers are so pathetic.

 

The Best Earphones (In-Ear Headphones) of 2016

If you're a music lover, chances are you're not happy with your phone or media player's bundled earphones. Most of the time, they sound pretty dismal. Here some that sound better.

 

9 Best iPhone Apps that must have on your iPhone

Download these apps for iphone 4, iPhone 5C, iPhone 5S and iPhone 6. These are the best apps and they are very useful in your day to day applications.

 

13 tips for getting the best results from your iPhone camera

The iPhone takes great pictures. Here are some great tips to make you photos even better.

White House W-Fi Sucks

I’ve come to the conclusion that the tech guys running the government computer systems don’t have a clue about running secure computer systems, much less setting up a simple Wi-Fi network for the President of the United States (see our first story). Government computer experts verge on idiocy.

Look how many government servers have been hacked. The vital information about every government worker and everyone who has ever applied for a government job have all been stolen…much of that information can be found on the Internet for anyone to see. And remember the Obama Care computer fiasco? Government computer jockeys and their immediate superiors are morons!

Now we have the President of the United States saying on network television, just before the Super Bowl that he can’t get a decent signal in many places in the White House. That is absurd! Think about it.

I spend a fair amount of time on the campus of the University of Arizona. It is huge…392 acres to be exact. And I can get a secure Wi-Fi signal anywhere I go on campus. The UofA is a whole lot bigger than the White House. Maybe we should send some of the undergrads in the computer school who run the UofA networks to DC to help out our poor President. I bet they would be shocked to see how the system is run.

We trust so much of our lives to the government and most of our most private information is stored in their computer systems. And very few of their tech geniuses know how to run such systems properly. Of course, they are caught up in the bureaucracy also, so their hands may be tied by stupid rules and regulations. So, do you have faith in our government and their bureaucratic nonsense? Just moronic.

All right…time for you to take over. So have fun. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Crappy Wi-Fi signal? The White House has that problem too

The pre-Super Bowl interview on CBS confirmed that it isn’t just President Obama who is disrupted by insufficient coverage; his daughters are also “irritated by it.”

 

Twitter clips wings on terror tweets

The San Francisco-based social network said Friday that since the middle of the year it has suspended more than 125,000 accounts with suspected links to the terrorist group Islamic State.

 

Steve Ballmer Comments on Microsoft today

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer stepped down two years ago this week, but as the company's largest individual shareholder, he still keeps a close watch on what is going on.

 

The Technology Behind Hillary Clinton's Email Scandal, Explained

The Hillary Clinton email scandal has seemingly everything that can bring down a presidential candidacy. Here is how it worked.

 

Researchers are a step closer to creating an untraceable 'quantum Internet'

Scientists are figuring out how to create a 'quantum Internet' that will be totally secure and virtually unhackable. So secure, in fact, that even if someone did manage to listen in to your private communications, you'd immediately know about it.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How much RAM do you need, should you upgrade it, and will it speed up your PC?

This article takes you through all the ins and outs of RAM, including how much you really need and how to know when it's time to upgrade.

 

Most Windows security flaws mitigated by 'removing admin rights'

Almost nine-out-of-ten vulnerabilities targeting Windows last year could have been prevented by removing accounts with administrative rights.

 

Google search is about to get a lot smarter

The company's go-to guy for artificial intelligence is taking over its biggest business as its current search boss retires.

 

OneNote—what’s new in January 2016

When writing our New Year’s resolutions, we challenged ourselves to answer just one question: How do we make 2016 the best year yet for OneNote users? To that end, we’re thrilled to announce the number of features we’ve released in the past few weeks.

 

How I Finally Organized My Messy Inbox with Sortd

I’ve tried dozens of solutions to clean up my inbox, and so far, the Sortd Chrome extension comes closest to helping me use and organize email the way I work.

 

Mobile Computing

What's killing your battery? Android's top 10 performance-sapping apps

Is your phone or tablet battery constantly reduced to a sliver of red on the screen? New research has found the worst performance-draining apps on Android devices, and Facebook is the biggest culprit.

 

Uninstalling Facebook app saves up to 15% of iPhone battery life

Testing reveals Facebook iOS app drains battery life, even when it isn’t being used, and that using Safari instead will make an iPhone last longer

 

Best Email Apps For iPhone: The only 5 iOS email apps you should try

There are a few cases where a pre-installed iPhone app made by Apple is the best tool for a particular job, but the Mail app certainly isn't one of them. JRC: I use the Outlook app on my iOS devices. If the PC and MAC version were only this good!

 

5 upcoming Android phones that are worth waiting for

There are some amazing phones coming out in the next few weeks and months. The last thing you want is to drop hundreds on a new device only to feel behind the times a few days later.

 

2016 Guide: Android Tablets With the Longest Battery Life

Looking for an Android tablet that can go the distance? These eight models lasted more than 12 hours on our battery test.

Stuff…or Much Ado About Nothing…Well, Almost Nothing

Sunday, as you know, is the grand and glorious climax to the football season. But, in watching some tech TV today, I found out you will see the game covered like never before. New technical devices and software will give you amazing views of each play. Not only you, but replay officials can watch any play from almost unlimited points of view. This should be exciting.

And speaking of the Super Bowl, Microsoft released their concept of watching football in the future with the help of their HoloLens headset. It is probably a few years off, but be sure and watch the short video. It gives you a good idea what augmented reality is all about. I hope I am still around when this concept becomes reality. Wow!

And speaking of Microsoft, they are now sending Windows 10 to millions of computers running Windows 7 and 8.1. They announced they were going to do this in October. It won’t necessarily install on your computer, but it will be there. There are mixed opinions on this move and I don’t like the idea of anyone putting anything on my computer that I don’t know about. Of course it won’t happen to me since I already have it on all my current PC’s. But, forewarned is forearmed. It may already be on your computer as we speak.

I’ve included an extra story (for no additional charge) about the newest version of Linux called “Mint.” Now I have fooled around with older versions of Linux over the years and never really cared for it…much less recommended it for the average computer user. It was difficult to set up and use. But the demo I saw today says this new version is quite good and easy to use and set up…it deserves an in-depth look. I am going to try it out on my MAC (running inside Parallels). Will let you know what I find.

Well, that is all for my comments today, but do continue reading as there are some good articles here. If you are going to watch the game on Sunday, I hope you enjoy it. If not, have fun doing something you like. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Microsoft is about to start automatically downloading Windows 10 onto PCs

Microsoft announced in October last year that Windows 10 would download automatically onto PCs, and has now started the process.

 

Opinion: Ad companies are the biggest privacy problem today, not governments

The adblocker dispute is going to become one of the fundamental battles on privacy. It's going to be a lot of fun to watch.

 

Amazon’s Retail Store Plans Go Beyond Books

The man behind the Kindle is leading Amazon’s project to create the retail stores of the future. And bookstores are just the beginning.

 

By 2020, more people will own a mobile phone than have electricity

The proliferation of mobile phones will continue as mobile data traffic jumps tenfold over the next four years, according to a study by Cisco.

 

Marissa Mayer unveils make-or-break plan for Yahoo

The beleaguered CEO of the struggling Internet pioneer delivers a "bold" strategic plan. She is cutting jobs, selling patents and real estate, and inviting would-be acquirers to speak up.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

10 Tips for Troubleshooting Your Internet Connection

Before you schedule a service call with your cable company, check out our tips for troubleshooting your Internet connection

 

How to Open Certain Workbooks Automatically When You Start Excel

If you use a few Excel spreadsheets daily, it would be handy if you could open those spreadsheets automatically every time you start Excel. Thankfully, Excel has this feature built-in–if you know where to look.

5 ways to troubleshoot Windows 10 update problems

When your update stalls, it's time for some detective work. Try these fixes until one of them works.

 

29 Hidden Chrome Features That Will Make Your Life Easier

While there is plenty of debate out there as to which browser is best, for my money it's the sleek, minimalist package known as Google Chrome. And the data shows that most users agree. JRC: I completely disagree with that statement, but there are some good tips here if you use the Chrome Browser

 

The Best Online Tax Preparation Software for 2016

If you're doing your own taxes, picking the right tax prep program is essential. Here's how the top services stack up.

 

Why switch to Windows 10 or a Mac when you can use Linux Mint 17.3 instead?

Linux Mint 17.3 is the best Linux desktop operating system and it might be the best PC operating system, period, for you.

 

Mobile Computing

The Amazon Kindle Gets a Design Refresh with a New Home Screen, Better Access to Settings

Amazon is rolling out an update to the Kindle Paperwhite and Voyage this month that’ll change the way your home screen looks. Alongside the new home screen, it’ll also give you better access to common settings and recommendations for books.

 

This is the fastest wireless carrier in the US

A new study taps data supplied by everyday phone users just like you. The winner might not be who you were expecting.

 

7 Android shortcuts for doing things faster

Many of Android's most oft-used features-everything from taking a picture to silencing alerts-are only a few taps, swipes or button-presses away.

 

11 of the best apps for iPhone from January 2016

January moved fast, but a whole lot happened last month, so we’ve whittled through the iOS app updates and new launches to bring you a more highly-curated list than ever before.

Quick Tips to Protect Your New (and old) Apple Devices

The one thing that most people believe is that there is no need to worry about security for their beloved Apple devices, which is a bit over inflated. So here are a few security tips for iOS and OSX.

The Techiest Super Bowl Ever…Live from Silicon Valley

Well it is Super Bowl Week…the week-long extravaganza that ends on Sunday afternoon with the big game between Denver Broncos and the Carolina Panthers. I must admit I am not overly excited about this game, but rest assured I will be watching. All the other hype that is going on now will not get any attention from this football fan. My feeling about the Super Bowl is, “Just play the damned game!”

Regardless of my feelings, this is definitely going to be the highest hi-tech game ever…for us TV viewers and especially for those folks in attendance at Levi Stadium. You know that this stadium sits in the heart of Silicon Valley. Within a mile of the stadium are some of the biggest tech company headquarters….names like Yahoo, Intel, PayPal, Cisco, MacAfee, Oracle, and more. And you can probably guess many of Silicon Valley’s finest companies played a role in making this the most hi-tech arena in the world.

About 1.5 years ago, I had the privilege of being at this stadium for the very first football game ever played here…Denver vs. 49ers. True, it was a preseason game and the 49ers were massacred. But, I still had fun and my iPhone apps worked just great. I think it is a wonderful stadium and I learned a lot more about all the hi-tech stuff in this stadium by reading our first story. If you are like me and love football and hi-tech, this is the place to be. Let’s hope the game matches the quality of the stadium.

As for the rest of today’s blog, there are some interesting stories here and well as valuable tips, tricks and software recommendations. So, enjoy. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Techiest Super Bowl ever: Silicon Valley's stadium girds for the big game

Levi's Stadium is one of the most high-powered venues in sports. On Super Bowl Sunday, we'll see if its network can handle the data-storm caused by throngs of smartphone-wielding fanatics. JRC: Be sure and look at all 12 photos on the bottom of the page for a real in-depth look at the technoly.

 

Windows 10 Overtakes Windows XP In Market Share

"Even though Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft and its market share is quickly shrinking, for many years, it was the most widely used operating system on the planet.

 

Microsoft’s abysmal phone sales may mean the death of Windows 10 Mobile

Microsoft’s latest quarterly results show such abysmal phone sales, it’s hard to believe that the Windows 10 Mobile ecosystem can recover.

 

Feds say 'Oops!' in anti-hacking deal

An update to an international accord potentially opens everyone to attacks, something the US government didn't figure out until after it was signed.

 

Circuit City is coming back

Watch out, Best Buy. Circuit City is coming back this year, but it may look a little different.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

The Best Chrome Extensions for Gmail

Here is a collection of our favorites, many of them free, and all worth a try if you're a serious Gmail-er using Chrome on almost any platform, be it Windows, Mac, Linux, or even a Chromebook.

 

How to Build Your Smart Home: A Beginner's Guide

The Internet of Things lets you automate your home and monitor it from afar. Ready to dive in? Start here.

 

Everything you need to know about mechanical keyboards before you buy

Any substantial amount of typing or gaming demands something more robust, and a mechanical keyboard is indeed that. The switches on a mechanical keyboard will last longer, remain more consistent, and be more comfortable than a cheaper board.

 

Top 11 Security resolutions for the New Year

2015 has been the worst year so far for security breaches. Although the state of online security reminds me of that scene in Office Space where Peter says that every day you see him is the worst day of his life, there’s a few things you can do to protect yourself against getting your data and online identity stolen.

 

CNET's guide to keeping your information private online

Between Facebook, your email and your browsing history, you're putting, and leaving, a lot of your personal information online. Here's how to get a handle on keeping it private.

 

Mobil Computing

68 best iPhone and iPad apps of 2016

To help you decide what truly deserves a place on your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch we’ve whittled down the array of colourful tiles to the very best. Here’s our choice of the greatest apps on iOS for 2016.

 

The Best Android Apps to Make Driving Safer, Easier, and More Fun

The very last place you should spend long amounts of time on your phone is behind the wheel of a car. Fortunately, plenty of apps are designed to help you find information and deal with distractions on the road safely.

 

Chrome for iOS is much faster and more stable, but Google hasn't solved its biggest problem

What Google doesn’t seem to have fixed is Chrome’s drain on your phone’s battery.

 

Samsung update allows ad blockers on default mobile web browser

Mobile ad blocking is thought to reduce web-page loading times and mobile data usage.

 

Secret Siri commands: Cool questions you can ask right now!

Siri can help you stay connected, organize your life, and get thing done both professional and personal. It can also do a lot of cool tricks... all you have to do is know what to ask!