Ciao…for Now

Not a lot of super hot tech news today, except that the European Parliament vetoed the ACTA treaty, which is really great news for all of us. Once again, an all-intrusive government plan has been stopped in its tracks by the people. Hooray for us.

For those of you excited about upgrading your computers to Windows 8, Microsoft has put together one heck of a deal…$40 to upgrade your Windows 7, XP, or Vista systems to Windows 8 Pro. I can feel your joy from here.

As always you will find some terribly helpful thoughts and tips here. So scan today’s stories carefully. Please note that this will be the last Rants and Raves for about a month. I am going on an extended vacation and photo expedition, mostly in California. I shall leave the heat and the monsoons of Tucson in my rear view mirror. But not to worry, I will be back in August sometime. If something big happens, I will let you know with an emergency broadcast. So keep one eye open when I am gone. -JRC

The European Parliament Rejects ACTA

Back in January, 22 European Union states, and the EU itself, signed the controversial ACTA treaty, which many argued could lead to severe restrictions on freedom and civil liberties on the Internet.. Now, the European Parliament has soundly rejected it. Thank God for protesters.

Windows 8 Pro Upgrade to Cost Just $40 During Special Promotion

Microsoft announced on Monday that it will allow users of Windows XP, Vista, or 7 to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for only $40 as part of a special promotion when the new OS becomes generally available later this year. This is, by far, the lowest upgrade pricing Microsoft has ever offered for Windows, and an exceptional value.

Bring on the Pablet: Why I am bullish about Microsoft's Surface

Call it a tablet, a PC, a Pablet or a TC: All I can say is so far, the Microsoft Surface is my best hope for something that may make Windows 8 more palatable.

Wall Street Journal Reports iPad Mini is On Its Way

Unnamed sources told the WSJ that the smaller-screened tablet, dubbed “iPad mini,” will likely be smaller than 8 inches, which sounds about right since previous rumors have claimed that the smaller iPad will be 7.85 inches.

When Will Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) Get to Your Smartphone?

It may take a while because the biggest obstacle to smartphone upgrades is the handset makers and cell phone carriers.

Wait for the iPhone 5 or go Google Android?

The latest Google Android devices on the market are impressive. And with Google's latest software release, it's hard to imagine that Apple will come up with anything to top it. But should you wait for the new iPhone anyway? Here's some advice.

Some ugliness installing an after-market SSD

If you are thinking about installing a solid state drive in your existing computer, you might want to read this article first so you know what to expect. It can be done, of course, but it may not be easy.

Create A Collage From Your Own Photos

Here's a great way to turn 2 or more of your favorite digital photos into a collage. You can also use the free program Picasa, which I use to create collages of my work.

TSR Watermark Image Software Download

TSR Watermark Image Software is watermark image program software that can add digital Watermarks to all your images, photos and pictures in the background with the transparency you decide.

Windows Firewall Control - Free

Windows Firewall Control is a simple bit of freeware that extends the capabilities of the built-in Windows firewall controls. It adds icons and entries to the system tray, desktop, and other locations; adds shell integration in Explorer menus; and other options.

Facebook and the Government…Both Out to Get Us

It’s certainly a bad thing when Facebook changes your profile settings without your permission. But its even worse when some Facebook users find their smartphones’ contacts address are changed. Facebook claim it’s a software glitch, but I want to know why they have access to my phone books. Something stinks here. And if you want to send me an e-mail using my Facebook e-mail…don’t bother…I will never see it.

Then, there’s the government at it again…just read story #2 and you will see what I mean. Still, you will find some good info here in this edition. Check out the story about the best places to store your photos on-line. Also, if you get a chance, think about seeing the movie, “Steve Jobs, The Lost Interview.” I saw it in a theater last week and found it absolutely fascinating. Now you can see it in your home.

Anyway, onward and upward. - JRC

Facebook phone app attempts to seize ALL YOUR MAIL

Facebook has found an innovative way to encourage use of its email service: reach into users' mobile phone address books and change the email addresses stored against each contact to their Facebook email account. What???

The U.S. Government Asked Twitter To Hand Over Users' Data 679 Times So Far This Year

Monday was a busy day in Twitter's fight to expose and resist the government's efforts to hoover up its users private data:

Where we stand — and are going — with Windows 8

Work on Windows 8 is in the home stretch, but predicting its success is still pure speculation — probably more so than with any previous Windows release. Microsoft’s announcement that it will build and sell its own Windows 8 computers just adds more drama to an already opaque roll-out schedule.

Microsoft Renames Windows Explorer to File Explorer

The latest little tweak that we’ve discovered is quite minor, but relevant none the less. Microsoft have no renamed the “Windows Explorer” to “File Explorer“. However none of the functionality of it has changed what so ever, it’s merely just a name change.

Google's Nexus 7 douses Kindle Fire

Google's $199 media and entertainment tablet slays the Amazon rival with pure Android and a Chrome browser

Google convinced the FAA to change its rules for I/O skydiving stunt

If you saw the ridiculously cool Google Glasses stunt that sent a handful of skydivers plummeting towards the ground to deliver a special package during the company's I/O conference keynote, you were probably just as stunned as the rest of us.

Comparing the best ways to store your photos online

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

Data plans: Which one costs you less

Verizon Wireless has shaken up the familiar data plan with shared-data options, but is it the best deal for you? Not always

10 Skype Chat Tricks for Power Users

Because we spend a bit of time chatting on Skype, we thought we’d share some fun tips. Whether you want to know how to edit sent instant messages, change the display font or use some awesome “hidden” emoticons, we think we’ll have a trick to suit you.

Steve Jobs: The Lost Interview Available To Rent From iTunes Store

The interview was originally conducted in 1995 by former Apple employee Robert X. Cringely for the TV series Triumph of the Nerds, but only 10 minutes of the footage was actually used in the show. The rest of it was presumed lost until the original tape was rediscovered weeks after Steve Jobs passed away. PS: I saw this one last week at a theater…definitely worth seeing.

Google’s Big Week

While Microsoft and Apple had their big announcements a few days ago, but yesterday and today belonged to Google…and they made the most of it. First, they introduced us to Android 4.1, code-named “Jelly Bean.” For most of us, this means next-to-nothing. Why? Because those of us with Android devices will not be able to upgrade to it. Those with Android 4.0 might be able to upgrade, but no guarantees…and only 7% of folks with an Android device have 4.0. Even with those limitations, 4.1 is pretty cool.

But where it comes into play was also introduced yesterday…the new Google Nexus 7” Tablet. This is a powerful tablet device that will sell for $199. Watch out Amazon, Google is coming after your market. And with the power of this device, they should do quite well. I watched the demo yesterday and let me tell you, this machine is pretty amazing.

It uses a quad-core processor and a video processor with 12 cores. Wow! And of course it runs on the new Android 4.1 Operating System. For games and video it can’t be beat. It is a serious tablet, far more powerful than the Kindle Fire, and will ship in about two weeks. But before you run out and buy one, be aware that the new Kindle 2 tablet (or tablets) will be coming out shortly. So, let’s wait and see what they have to offer. Tablets just keep getting better and better.

Other products introduced yesterday include Google Nexus Q, a streaming media device (see story below) and an upgraded Google+ app for Android devices (iOS devices coming very soon).

Today, Google dropped more bombs…first a Chrome Browser for iOS devices, which makes me happy…I would much rather have Chrome on my iPad than Safari. Second, a Google Drive app for all operating systems which, like SkyDrive, means all your data on Google Drive is available to all your devices at the same time. Of course, all your data is stored in the cloud and is immediately available to all your devices. Very cool. I’ve installed Chrome and Drive on my iPad and will give you a report later.

As you will see, much of this blog is dedicated to all the new Google products as they could be important to your computing pleasure. But, I did sneak in a few other tips and downloads…so, without any further ado, let’s get started. – JRC

Google Nexus 7 Tablet

Today, during Google's opening day keynote at Google I/O 2012, the company announced a new Asus-branded tablet called the Nexus 7. It was hardly a surprise given the flood of leaks over the past few days, but I was eager to pick up a unit and tear open the box. Here's what I've found so far.

The Android Nexus 7 Tablet (and Jelly Bean) Explained

A quick look at Google’s new Nexus 7 tablet shows us it has the potential to not just best all the other Android slates on the market - and Amazon’s Kindle Fire - but perhaps even challenge the dominance of the iPad.

Nexus 7 Tablet vs. Kindle Fire vs. the Rest: Spec Smackdown

Google’s Nexus 7 tablet, the company’s Android Jelly Bean-powered device, is heavy on the specs as it guns for Amazon’s Kindle Fire and the Nook Tablet. It’s not only the form factor and screen size Google is challenging its competitors, but also the price -- starting at $200 -- which means consumers will have quite a choice for a 7-inch Android tablet at this price point.

Google Chrome come to Apple iOS devices

Adding the Google browser to iOS devices means Google users will be able to get a more consistent experience across multiple devices, including their iPhones and iPads.

Google releases Google Drive for iOS and Chrome OS

Google has just announced that Google Drive will be coming to iOS and Chrome OS, and it's available now in the App Store. At its day 2 keynote, Google demonstrated Google Drive on the iPad, showing off the real-time collaboration and image recognition capabilities.

Google Nexus Q - Digital Media Receivers

Google is officially going head-to-head with Apple, Sony, Samsung, and Microsoft in the battle for your living room. The Google I/O keynote ended with the company's latest attempt to bring its services to your TV: the Google Nexus Q.

How to Maintain Your Android Phone

Android phones can become slow and clunky with age, but these tips can help get your phone running like new again

Microsoft explains why it killed the Windows 8 Start button

In an interview with PC Pro, the company has revealed that telemetry data was a big part of the decision to scrap the Start button and traditional Start menu in Windows 8.

10 Facebook Tips for Power Users

Facebook is a platform like any other — with a little practice you can get really good at using it. To help you out, we have pulled together 10 tips that we think will be useful for “power users” of the social network.

The Editors' Choice List: Our Selection of the Best PC Freeware

This really is a "best of the best" list. Most of the products in this list have been awarded the coveted "Gizmo's Top" pick award signifying they are the best free product in their class. We've also included some other outstanding products that have impressed our editors with their usefulness and professionalism.

A Bit of This…and a Lot of That

It another monsoon day in hot, steamy Arizona, but that is OK. The town is too preoccupied to notice. You see, the University of Arizona Wildcats won the College World Series last night and thousands of people were on hand today to welcome the champs home. They were undefeated in Regional Play and in the Series. Am very happy to have attended several games this year including the regional playoff games. Would have liked to been in Omaha to see the series. Just delighted they won it all.

In tech news, not a whole lot of hot news going on (no pun intended), but there are some interesting stories that may be of interest to you. Also some good software that you might want to consider for your needs…and a couple of good rumors on new tablets from Google and Amazon. I normally don’t like to publish rumors, but as they might influence your buying decision on a new tablet, I made an exception here. So read on…JRC

Good news for consumers: Solid state drive prices are dropping

With prices falling, hard drive manufacturers are giving consumers even more reason to invest in solid state drives.

Three screens and a cloud: can Microsoft deliver with Windows 8, Windows Phone 8, and Xbox?

Suddenly, it feels like Microsoft has everyone talking, discussing the positives and negatives of the company's new approach. A bold unification of its Metro design across tablets, desktops, smartphones, and Xbox appears to be setting the stage for the multi-device convergence that the company has been promising for over three years, but will it finally deliver?

Microsoft Rising

This year has been a revolution for the software giant, however, and with recent announcements and leaks centered on next-generation versions of Windows, Windows Phone, Xbox, and Office, Microsoft is suddenly the darling of the tech world.

New Kindle Fire Tablet by End of July?

On the eve of the expected announcement of a new Google tablet that takes aim at Amazon's Kindle Fire, a leak from within the online retailer revealed that a new version of its slate will be announced by the end of July.

Google Maps vs. Bing Maps: A Showdown of Satellite Images

Let’s take a head-to-head look at Google Maps and Bing Maps to see which service provides a better view of various locations around the world.

Three Quick Tips for Getting Useful Information at Google Search

Whether you are traveling, planning travel, or just relaxing, Google search is a place for some useful information. Here are three specialized search terms that will get some commonly requested information in a hurry.

Flipboard arrives on Android

The popular news-reader app, hitherto iOS-only, can now be had on Android phones and on Kindle Fire and Nook tablets. This one of my favorite apps on the iPad.

MP3 Toolkit - Free

MP3 Toolkit is simple and it works, letting you convert audio files to a number of different types, merge multiple files into one, clip files for ringtones or the like, edit tags, rip files from CD, and record using a microphone

Right Click Shortcuts Creator 2.6 (Windows- free)

Right Click Shortcuts Creator allows users to add file,folder and application shortcuts to user's right click context menu.

Microsoft Continues to Dominate the Tech News

On Monday, the folks from Redmond announced their own branded tablet…the Microsoft Surface. Yesterday, they announced the new Windows Phone 8. So what is this all about? It’s the formal unification of Microsoft Windows 8 for computers with tablets and phones…all devices running the same operating system. The new Windows 8 Phone will now use the same operating kernel as the the others, thereby unifying their systems and giving users better interoperability…or that is the goal anyway.

Microsoft has seen the future…and it is in mobile computing….and they are way, way behind in that area. Microsoft doesn’t even have a tablet yet while Apple totally dominates that market. As for smartphones, Apple and Android dominate there, while Windows Phone has only a miniscule share of that pie. So Microsoft has a long, long way to go, but they had no choice…they had to do something.

The bad news for them is that none of the products announced this week will be available until sometime in the fall. And, those folks with current Windows phones will not be able to upgrade to the new phone. Not a good way to build customer loyalty…and they just killed all sales on their current models.

But back to Windows 8…while it may work well in the mobile computing area, it is not looked upon favorably in the one market where Microsoft still dominates…the desktop/laptop market. Trying to put a mobile operating system on a PC is not a good idea as it limits what the PC can do, especially when compared to Windows 7. While I admire what Microsoft is trying to do, the center of my computing world is the PC…and I am sticking with Windows 7. As for interoperability, I have my my Android phone, my Apple iPad, and my Windows 7 computer all working quite well together…thanks to the cloud.

For today’s news stories, I have two great article on Windows Phone 8 and more important articles on the Surface tablet. I think you should definitely read the article, “Just what is Windows RT, anyway? (FAQ).” It will explain in-depth just how limiting Windows RT is on a tablet, should you be tempted to buy one. Current speculation is that the Windows RT tablet will be the same price as an iPad. Good luck with that one, boys. On with the show…-JRC

Windows Phone 8 in detail: new Start Screen, multi-core support, VoIP integration, and NFC

Microsoft is lifting the curtain to provide a preview of some of the software and hardware changes for its Windows Phone 8 operating system.

Microsoft's Windows Phone 8: There's good news and bad news

Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 operating system release is not going to be made available on any current Windows Phones. Not even second-generation Mango phones. Not on the new Lumia models from Nokia. None. Period.

Microsoft's Surface tablet vs. the iPad: Seven challenges

If Microsoft is going to take on Apple in the tablet wars, here are the key questions that need to be ironed out.

Microsoft to PC and tablet makers: You're not our future

Microsoft's plan to build its own Windows 8 tablets puts longtime allies in peril -- and is the right thing to do

Just what is Windows RT, anyway? (FAQ)

As with Windows NT, Microsoft has yet to clarify what "RT" actually means. Why on Earth Microsoft decided to name the ARM-powered version of Windows so ridiculously similar to the abbreviation for Windows Runtime, WinRT, is beyond the abilities of mere mortals to decipher.

Twitter Struggles With Hours-Long Outage

Twitter struggled with service disruptions Thursday morning Pacific time, although its status blog at one point said that the outage had been resolved.

Twelve ways to customize your Android device

From setting a ringtone, setting a live wallpaper to setting the audio quality on your device; Android devices allow for a great deal of customization. Here's 12 ways to customize your device today.

The Quick Way To Share A Photo Online

Users now have dozens of options for photo sharing via the web but this one must be one of the simplest. It's no substitute for full blown album services like Flickr but is quite ideal for quickly sharing a few images. Definitely one to bookmark.

Photo Management Tools: Which Tool Is Right for You?

In the age of affordable DSLRs, Instagram and ubiquitous photo-sharing on Facebook and other social networks, we're taking more photos than ever before.

Little-known browser commands and functions

No matter what browser you use, chances are good that you’ve never even heard of some its powerful and useful commands, features, and functions. Here’s a guided tour to some of the most interesting — and unfamiliar — functions in Internet Explorer, Chrome, and Firefox.

Microsoft Surface Surfaces in LA

Late last week, Microsoft said a huge announcement would take place Monday in Los Angeles. There was no hint what it was about…they didn’t even disclose the location until the the very last minute. The tech press had a field day all weekend guessing what was going to happen. Everything from a new phone to a new Xbox to a new application featuring Barnes and Noble. Finally, on Monday, most everyone decided it had something to do with a new tablet.

Bingo…that was it. Yesterday afternoon, Microsoft announced their own new Windows 8 tablet called “Surface.” In fact, they announced two tablets. The most unusual aspect is both will be Microsoft products, not manufactured by any of their partners. This is a huge change for them as they have always been in partnership with hardware manufacturers (except for a handful of items like the X-Box).

As for the two tablets, they both feature a 10.6 inch screen in a 16x9 ratio. Not a retinal screen like the iPad, but something called a high-def screen. The main difference in the two tablets is one is running Windows 8 RT on an ARM chip…the other running Windows 8 on an Intel i5 processor. You can read more about the specs of each in our first story, which includes a video.

Quite frankly, the new Surface tablet is intriguing. It comes in a case with a stand in the back and a keyboard in the front. Very clever. Both units weigh slightly more than an iPad. As for the price…well, Microsoft was not very forthcoming on that. The speculation is that the ARM version will come in around the same price as an iPad and the Intel version will be very expensive.

Will it succeed? Good question. It depends on whether people warm up to Windows 8. Remember, the Metro interface is made for tablets. If the tablet is glitchy, Microsoft will be in big trouble. And remember, Windows 8 is a first generation product…whereas the iPad is in its third generation. That could be significant. But it has the potential right now to be a winner for Microsoft. It all hangs on the success of Windows 8 in the market.

The ARM version will be released for sale at the same time Windows 8 comes to market…best guess is October. The Intel version will come out approximately three months later. Apple has a huge lead in the tablet market, but I think the Surface will be a big danger to the fragmented Android tablet market. As for me, I am happily sticking with my iPad. And if I had to make a decision in October, I would still choose the iPad.

There are some other very interesting stories in this edition, so make sure you take a good look. PS…I love the story called “Whatever Happened to Productivity,” by John C Dvorak. Make sure you read it. - JRC

Microsoft Surface RT Overview & Specs

The tablet wars are no longer a two-horse race between Apple and Google. At a press event in Los Angeles today, Microsoft unveiled Surface, a line of tablet devices running the company's next-generation Windows operating system (video included).

Microsoft Surface tablets: Reading the fine print

Here are a few more hidden tidbits about Microsoft’s new Surface tablets, launched in Los Angeles ysterday.

Hacker claims mass bank breach; releases Visa, Mastercard data

More than 79 banks have been breached, claimed a hacker on Twitter. Following a data release on Tuesday, he said he has more than 50 gigabytes of U.S. and foreign bank data in his hands.

Google finds 9,500 new malicious Web sites a day

Search giant details how much malware its Safe Browsing keeps away from users and hints at scanning Chrome extensions.

Gmail Custom Themes Personalize Your Inbox with Any Photo

Gmail has always had a number of cool themes for you to choose from, but they've finally added the ability to create your own, letting you customize your inbox even further. (with video)

Watch Out Where You Click on Download Sites or You May Not Like What You get

Many download sites now contain ads deliberately designed to trick you into clicking them by disguising the ads to look like actual download links. It's become a real hazard even on reputable sites. In this short article our tips editor shows you how to avoid getting yourself into trouble.

It's the end of books as you knew them: E-books out-sell hardbound for the 1st time

Get ready to bid adieu to your local bookstore - if you're lucky enough to still have one! - as e-books sales surpass hardcover book sales for the first time.

What Happened to Productivity?

Has anyone noticed that the computer revolution has turned its focus from improving productivity to wasting time on trivia?

Top 10 Digital Photography Tips

Whether you are a beginner or more experienced with photography, there are some tips that will benefit you and give you better results. Here are some common issues that you may have to deal with and some tips on how you can use them to your advantage.

NetSpeedMonitor (Free Download)

Simple and powerful utility NetSpeedMonitor keeps track of Internet connection speeds.

Nokia in Deep Do-Do and Verizon Has New Rate Plans

While today is a moderately slow news day, that leaves plenty of room for articles that will help you with your computers, smartphones and tablets…both now and in the near future. As you may have noticed, I am including more stories about the latter two categories as they have become very important in our lives.

The news may or may not be good for Verizon customers as they are changing their rate plans…but you will be allowed to keep your current plan if it works better for you. I sure am as I have one of those unlimited data plans. They will have to pull that out of my cold dead hands.

The news is definitely all bad for Nokia, once the leading cell phone manufacturer in the world. Not long ago, they made a deal to switch to the Windows Phone system, but the money is running out and Microsoft is moving very slowly on that front. Looks like 10,000 employees are going to lose their jobs by the end of next year. Sad. The technology business raises you to new heights, then brings you crashing down. Just ask the Blackberry folks.

But, as I said, there is plenty of good information here so just wade in and see if there is a nugget of info that will work for you. - JRC

Customers Can Keep Current Plans, Verizon Says

As customers and analysts pore over Verizon Wireless's new rate plans, which take effect June 28, the company is emphasizing that current customers will not have to give up a plan that already works for them.

Nokia: Cash and clock could run out on comeback

Nokia is getting squeezed on the high- and low-ends of the smartphone market. Cash and time is running short...and 10,000 folks will be losing their jobs.

Microsoft details its Twitter and Facebook integration in the People App

The software giant has been gradually working on new features for its People App in particular over the past several months, and Microsoft's Jeff Kunins has taken to the Building Windows 8 blog to detail the company's cloud-powered address book.

Exploring Windows’ Administrative Tools: Part 2

In Part 1 of “Exploring Windows’ Administrative Tools” (May 10 Top Story), you saw how a few easy tweaks can give you two-click access to hundreds of Windows’ most powerful diagnostic, tuning, and administrative features. In this installment, we’ll explore one of the most powerful of these tools — Performance Monitor.

Use These Tricks to Recover Lost Files In Windows 7

Windows 7 has an automatic file and folder backup called "Shadow Copies" built in. This service creates backup copies called “previous versions”.The only catch is that you have to remember the name of the file you deleted and what folder it was in.

How iOS 6 changes the iPad

The latest version of Apple's iOS has some significant new features that just might change how the iPad is used, and the value of iPads with built-in 4G.

16 security problems bigger than Flame

Flame has proven a complex piece of malware, but if it were to disappear today, the Internet would just as insecure

Reimagining Sports News: Bleacher Report

Bleacher Report, founded in 2006 by four sports fans from Silicon Valley, has become so influential that Time Warner is rumored to be trying to acquire it.

Carat: The Brilliant App That Increases Your Battery Life By Showing What Other Apps To Kill

Carat, an incredibly useful free new iOS and Android app that's the first to give you personalized mobile battery life-saving recommendations. For iOS and Android devices.

Coolbarz - Add Custom Toolbars to your Desktop (free)

The toolbars remain hidden until you hover your mouse over the area, which will cause them to fade into view, allowing you to access your shortcuts.

What’s New from Apple and More Hits for Microsoft

Yesterday was another big day for Apple. While it was their annual Developer Conference for independent application writers, they took the opportunity to introduce new products (computers mostly) and give us previews of their forthcoming new operating systems for computers and portable devices. The big product news was the introduction of a new MacBook Pro with a Retinal Screen, similar to the one on the iPad 3. Impressive but very expensive…$2,200.

But the most interest was generated by Apple’s iOS6 operating system for the iPhone and the iPad. I have included a story about the OS and what it will do for those of us who use the portable Apple products. It will be released in the Fall.

But not to leave Microsoft out, I’ve got three new stories about the forthcoming Windows 8…all opinions ranging from bad to mediocre. As I promised, I am trying to be fair with the new operating system…just passing along what the experts think. And while it appears at first glance that Apple is Windows 8 biggest competitor, it isn’t. The big competitor is Windows 7. Think about it.

OK, let’s get this show on the road. - JRC

Apple's WWDC news: New Macbook Pros, iOS 6, upgraded Siri

Apple comes on strong with a slew of announcements including a brand new MacBook Pro, and tons of features on iOS 6 and OS X.

By adding new maps and more FaceTime, iOS 6 hits major marks

Coming this fall for the iPhone and iPad, iOS 6 will adds several long-awaited features, including turn-by-turn navigation and FaceTime calls over a cell network.

Final thoughts on Windows 8: A design disaster

The biggest problem with Windows 8 is that it wasn’t born out of a need or demand. Its design failures, particularly with ‘Metro UI’ will likely be its downfall. Here’s why.

Windows 8 nears the finish line: What's good, what's bad

Microsoft lifts the Windows 8 kimono one last time before the finish line. Here are the improvements and inconsistencies

Windows 8: Give Microsoft credit for betting the farm

Microsoft’s Windows 8 and its Metro UI has sparked extreme reactions and there appears to be little middle ground. Windows 8 will either be a hit or the next Vista. But let’s give Microsoft credit for making one gutsy bet.

Tech's biggest flops of 2012 (so far)

The tech world moves so fast that you've probably forgotten about at least some of the big flops that have already happened this year. Here's a quick rundown to keep you in the loop

California's budget crisis sparks controversial BYOD plan to save money

California Department of Health Care Services wants employees to use their own smartphones without any subsidy; state employee unions are fighting it

20 Reasons to Switch to Google+

Thinking of truly embracing Google+ as your go-to social network of choice? The folks at Infographic Labs have put together a compelling infographic as to why the Google service is worth your time.

How to transfer files from Windows to the iPad

The iPad (and other iOS devices) might be the coolest computing device, but it lacks a clear and simple way to share files with Windows PCs. Sure, iPads contain storage and connect to PCs via USB, but they don’t behave like flash drives or Android phones. Here are three tricks for moving files on and off an iPad. (PS: I use the new Skydrive)

PC Wizard 2012 2.0 (Windows, free)

PC Wizard 2012 is a powerful utility designed especially for detection of hardware, but also some more analysis. It's able to identify a large scale of system components and supports the latest technologies and standards.

LinkedIn and Windows…More Holes Than Swiss Cheese

I am sure many of you use use the LinkedIn social media service. I know I do, but not a whole lot lately as it is really for folks in the trades…so to speak…and I am retired. But, they announced that over 6 million of their customer’s passwords were hacked and are loose in the wild. So, if you are a LinkedIn user, you need to immediately go to their site and change your password.

I did, even though I am not a major user and my password would more than likely never be unencrypted...it’s a beauty.  But, it might be a good time to change your passwords everywhere, especially if you use the same password on multiple accounts. I suggest you use LastPass to store all your passwords as it can suggest obscure, difficult to decrypt passwords. And, by the way, as we were going to press, the music site LastFM has announced their user passwords have also been compromised.

As for Microsoft, their monthly update, known as Patch Tuesday, will have lots of important fixes so make sure you get them when they are released. Most of us have our computers set for auto updates so you don’t have to do anything. If you don’t, you should.

OK, let’s get on with this show. I think you will find some good things here to peak your interest. Thanks for reading. -JRC

LinkedIn confirms passwords were 'compromised'

LinkedIn said today that some passwords on a list of allegedly stolen hashed passwords belong to its members, but did not say how its site was compromised.

Microsoft to fix dangerous IE, Windows security holes

A total of 7 security bulletins will be released to address at least 28 documented vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows, Internet Explorer, Visual Basic for Applications, Dynamics AX, and the .NET Framework. Patch Tuesday is next week.

It's war: Google + Quickoffice vs. Microsoft Office everywhere

Quickoffice, just acquired by Google, may give Google a needed competitive hedge against Office 15 on Windows tablets and possibly iOS and Android devices.

iOS: Apple to Google Maps: Get Lost

Apple reportedly plans to kick Google Maps to the curb and put out its own mapping application for iOS. The friction caused by the companies' smartphone rivalry may have caused Google to limit Apple's use of its mapping technology.

Google Maps Travels Off-Road, Into the Sky, and Into the Pocket

Google has revealed a few new features for its Google Maps service. 3D views of various cities will be available, and Android users will be able to access a certain amount of Google Maps data offline.

Bing Gets Smarter, Partners With Encyclopedia Britannica

Microsoft today announced that it has partnered with Encyclopedia Britannica and will start to prominently feature answers from Britannica Online on the search results pages of Bing.

What Ever Happened To... Start Pages

The short answer is that there is no real consumer appetite for start pages anymore. Social networks and browsers that sync with the cloud have taken over as modern day start pages.

Internet lights up with new IPv6 connections

IPv6, aka Internet Protocol version 6, provides vastly more network addresses than IPv4, which is running out of them.

471 Places for Free eBooks Online

Originally, the list was for 50 sites (hence that number in the link) and I thought that was a lot. I expect that this list will cross 500 sites in the near future. Given the large listing, you may want to check out the various Genre pages that I have put together.

Interclue For Firefox - Free

Interclue is a Firefox extension that displays a snapshot of every webpage when you mouse hover an icon that appears over a link. Hence it creates a tiny replica of what's actually hiding inside a link, and lets you preview a text summary of a webpage without actually having to open it, saving you various mouse clicks and your precious time.

To Hell with the NCAA, ESPN, and Microsoft

I really have some rants today, but will try to remain calm, cool and collected here. My biggest rant has nothing to do with technology, but rather with the NCAA and ESPN. Those two idiots have scheduled the Super Regional Baseball games here in Tucson this weekend to be played at noon.

Any nincompoop knows not to schedule day games in June in Tucson. Weather will be around 105 or more. It’s dangerous for the players, but more so for the fans. The really maddening part is that the UCLA Super Regional will be played in the evening…high temps there during the day there are in the 70’s. The winner of the Super Regionals go to the College World Series. TV rules all, including common sense. I will not be buying tickets…will watch from a sports bar.

My other gripe concerns our arrogant friends at Microsoft. You may recall the biggest gripe most people have with Windows 8 was the lack of a “Start” button. Well, some independent developers solved that and made it available for people to download for free. Microsoft didn’t like that so they will be taking out all code in the final version of Windows 8 that allows such an add-on to work. In other words, Windows 8 is being shoved down our throats whether we like it or not. Arrogant bastards!

See, I was pretty mellow here. But there are some interesting things going on in the tech world, and here they are…JRC

Firefox 13 arrives with a start page face lift and speed improvements

While Microsoft and Google continue to compete for browser market share, a new version of Mozilla's Firefox brings some much needed improvements to the user interface.

Obama takes cyberwarfare to new level, report says

The New York Times is reporting today, citing a host of sources, that the Obama administration pressed forward with Stuxnet's attack on Iran and has used cyberwarfare extensively.

China tells US to stop tweets on Beijing's bad air

China told foreign embassies Tuesday to stop publishing their own reports on air quality in the country, escalating its objections to a popular U.S. Embassy Twitter feed that tracks pollution in smoggy Beijing.

The Flame Malware Program uses Microsoft's Security Certificates

Microsoft has released a Windows Update patch in which users should install. Make sure you do it.

Microsoft ticks off advertisers with IE10 'Do Not Track' policy

The "Do Not Track" feature will be turned on by default in Internet Explorer 10, a move that's upsetting the advertising community.

Facebook takes baby steps toward kids' social network

Facebook's real goal: selling games to tweens and teens, but the move could make Facebook safer and better overall, if done right

What is RSS all About?

RSS feeds offer a better way to access the new and changing content you want to see. You subscribe to feeds, somewhat like you would to newsletters, but there are big differences:

First of Many -- Too Many? -- Windows 8 Tablets Get a Look

"It certainly looks like there are going to be tablets in every size, shape, and variety -- with keyboards, without keyboards, with attachable keyboards -- that a consumer could possibly want" running Windows 8, said analyst Michael Gartenberg."The challenge for Microsoft is going to be making sure consumers understand what all these things are."

Tens of Thousands of Free Kindle eBooks Online

You do not have to have a kindle device to read kindle books. A kindle application is available for every major smartphone, computer and tablet. Additrionally, Amazon has a Kindle cloud reader available, so you do not have to use software or download the ebook to read (free registration and residency requirements).

Angry Birds Space Gets Updated With 10 New Levels

The food planet of Utopia is filled with popcorn, cookies and candy apples. It also gives you the ability to launch your cranky feathery creatures off jelly trampolines

Windows 8 Release Candidate is Released…OMG

It’s here, it’s hot, and it’s ready for your computer now. Microsoft surprised us all today by delivering Windows 8 Release Candidate ahead of schedule. Most reports had it pegged for June 8. The release candidate is the final beta version before the product is released for manufacturing. According to everything I read today, the product is much improved over the Consumer Preview Version. I wait to hear more on that. You can download it for free at the Microsoft Web site. I have included two stories here that give you an in-depth look at the latest iteration of Microsoft’s operating system.

On a sad note, it looks like the days of RIM, manufacturers of Blackberry phones, are coming to a close. Its operating losses far exceed their ability to continue in business. Too bad…for a long time it was the industry leader in Smart Phones, especially in the business world.

And be sure you read the story about the UN trying to take over the Internet. For once, Republicans and Democrats agree that this would be a very bad thing. We will hear more about this one in the coming months.

So without further ado, lets get started…-JRC

Windows 8 Release Preview: Microsoft gets its apps together

Microsoft’s carefully timed unveiling of Windows 8 has been frustratingly incomplete. Today’s launch of the Release Preview fills in many of the missing pieces, with the biggest surprise being a rich and polished collection of Metro style apps.

Windows 8 Release Preview: The Ultimate Delta Guide

You’ve waited, you’ve wondered, you’ve suspected … and now it’s finally here: The Windows 8 Release Preview, Microsoft’s new, near-final look at its next operating system. As expected, the Release Candidate represents a major new milestone towards the release of Windows 8. And if you’ve got questions about what’s changed, good news: I have the answers. And I like to share.

Microsoft Updates SkyDrive Application for Windows

No, it’s not the Live Mesh-like controllable folder sync we’re all looking for, but Microsoft says its pushing out an update to its SkyDrive application for Windows that enables some interesting new functionality.

U.N. takeover of the Internet must be stopped, U.S. warns

A U.N. summit later this year in Dubai could lead to a new international regime of censorship, taxes, and surveillance, warn Democrats, Republicans, the Internet Society, and father of the Internet Vint Cerf.

Behind the 'Flame' malware spying on Mideast computers (FAQ)

Lurking on computers for at least five years, the malware has the ability to steal data, eavesdrop on conversations, and take screen captures of instant message exchanges, making it dangerous to any victim. Experts say it's got to be the work of a nation-state.

White House launches coordinated effort to battle botnets

The new effort to fight the large networks of compromised computers will involve a range of activities, including plans to share information about botnets among government and private organizations and a nationwide consumer education campaign, members of President Barack Obama's administration announced. I feel safer already.

RIM's impending collapse: By the numbers

RIM is in dire straits. The makers of the Blackberry phone system announced it would suffer an operating loss and suspended its shares on the Nasdaq. Here’s what you need to know.

Burn Note Web App Allows Your Messages To Erase Automatically

Want to have an email message get destroyed as soon as its read?
Try out Burn Note an online message system we first heard about from CNET.

DVD Shrink Freeware

DVD Shrink enables you to fit a DVD-Video disc onto a single, standard DVD disc. The program supports re-authoring and re-encoding the movie, and features an intuitive user interface which makes it easy to choose what to keep, and what not.

Office 15…Looking Good

It looks like another slow week for tech news. I really had to scramble to get enough quality stories for this edition…the operative word here is “quality”… stories that you will find useful.

Many of today’s nuggets are focused upon Microsoft…some about Windows 8 surprises…but my favorite story is about what to expect in the forthcoming release of Office 15. We have all been so focused on the pluses and minuses of Windows 8, we forgot that a new version of Office is also coming out this year. If you are an Office user, I encourage you to read about this new version.

You will notice there are no stories today about the price of Facebook stock…I don’t want to turn this journal into a stock market tip sheet. But, for your information, the stock continued its slide, closing today at $28.84…down over $3 from Friday’s close and over $9 from its opening price of $38. The stock market itself had a good day.

So, let’s just move beyond Facebook and hope you can find something useful in today’s stories. – JRC

Four signs America’s broadband policy is failing

Where's the robust broadband competition we were promised?

Office 15: The Mile-High View

Overall, Office 15 is compelling and forward-leaning. Microsoft’s embrace of cloud computing and virtualization technologies, in particular, is well done and make supporting and using this suite easier than ever.

Why Microsoft Killed Windows Live

Windows Live has been Microsoft's online branding since it was unveiled back in November 2005. But Windows Live never worked, mainly because the brand was applied to Microsoft products inconsistently and seemingly at random.

Windows 8 Release Preview: RIP, Aero (2003-2012)

This change isn’t just about obfuscation. It’s about the Windows team abandoning the very market that drove Windows’s success for over 25 years in order to chase a coming and potentially illusory market for tablet devices.

Microsoft forbids class actions in new Windows license

Microsoft will make it harder for customers to club together with lawyers to file lawsuits against its products. The company is rolling out new End User License Agreements (EULAs) that forbid punters from joining class-action proceedings.

Did Microsoft Just Give Up on Windows 8 for Businesses?

Despite my recent attempt to categorize what’s coming in Windows 8 for businesses -- and, seriously, it’s not a bad list -- it’s become increasingly clear to me that Microsoft doesn’t actually expect businesses to upgrade to this new system in any meaningful way.

Browser choice: A thing of the past?

Devices using iOS and the future Windows RT hobble third-party browsers. Despite some good reasons for doing so, the change could undermine browser competition.

10 ways to make Android better than the iPhone

These tweaks and apps will let your Android smartphone outshine your friends' iPhones

Set Your Notifications to Stop Your Phone from Constantly Bugging You

If you're anything like me, your phone buzzes all day long, alerting you to completely useless things like app updates, Facebook likes, and chain emails from your grandma. Here's how to keep your phone from bugging you all day without turning your notifications off entirely—but still staying on top of what matters.

Eraser - Free Download

Eraser is an advanced security tool for Windows that allows you to completely remove sensitive data from your hard drive by overwriting it several times with carefully selected patterns.

A Tale of Two Troubled Companies

Facebook continues to dominate the tech news with stories about its IPO and falling stock prices. Today, it closed $2 higher than it was on Tuesday, but still $5 below its initial public offering of $38 per share. I think it will hover around this price for a while…but who knows. Our first story tells you why this story isn’t going away any time soon.

In another story about a a different troubled tech company, Yahoo has released its first attempt at a Web browser. And like many of their latest ventures, it may flop. I will give the company credit for trying, but releasing a Web browser, of all things, doesn’t seem real smart…and it may have some serious security issues right out of the gate. I won’t be getting it any time soon…if for no other reason than I don’t need it. Who does?

Well, I will let you read the rest on your own. - JRC

Fury Over Facebook IPO Grows, Lawsuits Mount

With lawsuits literally mounting by the hour, it seems anyone within an arms reach of this deal is going to have some serious explaining to do.

'Privacy Is Awesome' Campaign Aims to Kill CISPA

Fight for the Future, a nonprofit with the self-described goal of protecting the Internet, has launched an informational campaign designed to kill off the Cyber Information Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA) once and for all.

President Obama orders federal agencies to optimize sites for smartphones and tablets

In a note issued by The White House this week, Obama says "it is time for the Federal Government to do more" to assist American people using Government services on smartphones or tablets.

Google takes down 1.2 million search links a month over piracy, copyright issues

In a reflection of the evolving nature of anti-piracy enforcement, the company revealed that it takes down 250,000 search links each week over copyright concerns, a figure that exceeds the total number it removed in all of 2009.

The truth about Google+: The social network without passion

While usage is low, it's not quite the ghost town some claim, and there's a deeper story behind the numbers

Google Chrome: Keeping tabs on your tabs

When you’re signed in to Chrome, your open tabs are synced across all your devices, so you can quickly access them from the “Other devices” menu on the New Tab page.

Here comes Yahoo's own Web browser -- Axis

Yahoo's search group attempts to take control of its destiny by launching its own browser. Surprise: It's good. However, others have pointed out there may some security issues.

Unusual photo and video effects from Microsoft

Digital photography gives us the freedom to take hundreds of photos and videos of places and people, at very little expense — so many images, that family and friends might be blasé at best about your latest efforts. But three little-known apps from Microsoft can put some unexpected novelty back into your images.

Best Free Mobile Apps

Here is a list of the best mobile apps for Android, iPhone, and iPad.

102 Places For Free Science Fiction & Fantasy eBooks Online

This is a listing of sites that legally offer free books, for reading (83) and listening (audio 19), for Science Fiction-Fantasy works. All of these sites listed have content that is legal for them to distribute and for you to read and/or download.

Facebook Stock Going South - Here’s Why

Another bad day on the stock market for Facebook. It closed today at $31 per share, down $7 from its first day opening price on Friday. On that first day, it actually got up to around $45, then closed at 31 cents above its opening Friday. On Monday, it went down nearly $4 in value and today, it dropped again. Not good. I heard several analysts saying before Friday that it was priced too high. But one never knows about IPO’s. I had a feeling it would drop, but I am definitely no expert. Our first story explains it all.

On a normal day, Microsoft and Windows would have been our lead story…with CEO Steve Ballmer’s outlandish predictions about the success of Windows 8. Problem is, if it doesn’t come true, he has backed himself into a corner.

It is pretty obvious that Microsoft is gearing Windows 8 toward consumers as many businesses are now just making the jump from XP to Windows 7. I doubt seriously most would be willing to jump into Windows 8, given the massive amount of retraining it would take for their users.

As for Windows 8 itself, you know my feelings. But our third story gives you another view as to why it will fail. In case you don’t get a chance to read it, the last paragraph makes a bold prediction that Windows 9 will look very much like Windows 7. And away we go…-JRC

Why Facebook's stock is tanking

Reality has taken hold. The company's valuation is still out of whack, despite its massive user base.

Ballmer: 500 Million Windows 8 Users by End of 2013

Talk about a bold prediction! Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer says that Windows 8 represented a “rebirth” of his company’s core operating system that would trigger sales of 500 million units between its release later this year and the end of 2013.

Microsoft's big bet: Windows 8's 'too many cooks' problem

Windows 8 has already had too many hands in the mix and spoons in the pot. Microsoft wanted different and its staff all thought “different”. Instead of reaching compromise, Microsoft put everything in to please everyone — but will likely please very few.

Microsoft Launched the So.cl Social Media Program

Microsoft launched a new social network program So.cl last week. But unlike Facebook, or Twitter, this program is geared towards students and academics as a way of helping students learn.

A Newbie's Guide to Publishing: Pricing Books and Ebooks

Some authors still seem to be confused about Agency pricing, what it means, and how does it compare to wholesale pricing on ebooks and paper books. They somehow think Amazon is a bad guy for trying to lower ebook prices. Here's a deeper explanation.

Technology News: Internet: Chrome Snatches IE's Browser Crown

Google's Chrome is now the most popular Web browser, having overtaken Microsoft's Internet Explorer worldwide, according to the latest figures from StatCounter.

Comcast, Cox, Time Warner partner on metro Wi-Fi

About 50,000 hotspots will carry the network name “CableWiFi” and allow cable customers to access wireless broadband Internet outside their home markets.

How Amazon is changing the rules for books and movies

The online retail giant is tapping its huge customer base and vast technical underpinnings to reshape the way books, movies, and television programs are made.

What Specs Actually Matter in a Digital Camera?

Megapixel rating don't really matter for image quality. What specs will tell me if a camera shoots great images or not?

Readlists, from the makers of Readability, creates ebooks from URLs

Readlists, a new website/web app that lets you create your own ebooks from your favorite articles online.

Two More Rants and One Good Rave

It will be fun tomorrow to watch Facebook’s first day on the stock market. The grand opening price, as outlined in story #4, is $38 per share. Of course, the likes of you and me will never get to see that price…oh, no, no, no. Opening prices are reserved for the super-rich with friends on the inside. Now you know why there is an “Occupy Wall Street” movement.  But, don’t forget, the stock market can be fickle and it might wind up the day for less than $38, although I don’t expect it will.

Want some more news to piss you off? How about Verizon rewriting customer’s contracts to screw them out of their unlimited data plans? Even if you have an existing contract, they are cancelling it and will charge you their structured data rates. And that is the dirty little secret about cell phone contracts…only you have to honor your end…cell phone companies can do anything they want. Read your contract carefully, it is right in there.

But here is some good news…one of my favorite companies, OpenDNS.com, the company I use and recommend for your Internet DNS service, is now offering a free program that will encrypt all your data from your computer to the DNS server. No more worrying about being hijacked at open Wi-Fi places. Can’t happen when your data is encrypted.  Everyone with a laptop computer should be using this free program (see last story). Heck…I am going to use it at home. Never can be too secure.

OK, let’s get on with the show…-JRC

First Look: ZoneAlarm Free Antivirus + Firewall Launches Today

ZoneAlarm is an old and trusted name in the field of computer security. Its free personal firewall has been popular for years, and now, it has decided to step up its game: Its latest product takes the solid foundation of the free firewall, and adds a free antivirus on top

Technology News: Android: Android: What, Me Fragmented?

There are nearly 4,000 different types of devices running Android, OpenSignalMaps has found. More than 1,300 of them have custom ROMs that tweak the android.build model.

Seeing ads on Wikipedia? Then you're infected

Wikipedia relies on donations to fund its work, resisting the temptation to put ads on its pages. So internet users who see commercial ads when they visit the encyclopedia are been served content via cybercrime affiliates, a blog post by Wikipedia explains.

Windows 8: Does Metro actually work?

Using Microsoft’s Metro technology in Windows 8 is like going to a flashy restaurant where your plate is delivered with a tiny morsel of food in the middle, but the rest of the plate is unused, says one tester.

Verizon to kill unlimited data plans for existing subscribers

Verizon Wireless subscribers who have held onto their $30-a-month unlimited data plans will soon be forced to upgrade to a new tiered offering the company plans to launch this summer.

Facebook sets IPO price at $38 a share

Facebook has set the price of tomorrow's IPO at $38 a share, after phenomenally strong demand from big money managers to get in on the biggest Internet IPO in history. Should be quite a show tomorrow.

The best blogs for hobby astronomers

If one of your geek hobbies is stargazing and reading about celestial events, you’ll want to check out these 14 blogs and one podcast.

Best practices for trouble-free Windows patching

For Windows users who manage their own system updates, the patching process is a bit like going to the dentist — you really hope it’ll be pain-free. For making that twice-monthly chore a little easier, here are some simple tips and tricks to avoid patching woes.

Introducing DNSCrypt

In the same way the SSL turns HTTP web traffic into HTTPS encrypted Web traffic, DNSCrypt turns regular DNS traffic into encrypted DNS traffic that is secure from eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks. Just what you need for all open Wi-Fi connections.

I'm Mad as Hell etc.

I am in a bad mood and this episode of Rants and Raves will reflect just that. Why? Not 100% sure. Maybe because a local restaurant gave me Salmonella poisoning a few days ago and I was violently ill like never before and am still recovering.  There are probably a few more reasons. But what set me off was a headline I saw while putting together stories for this blog.

The headline was, “Half of All People Surveyed Believe Facebook is a Passing Fad.” Duh! Of course it is…most of life these days is a passing fad. Technology is filled with passing fads. Life itself is filled with passing fads. Music, art, education, marriage, relationships, careers, diets, restaurants…they are all passing fads. We are a society of passing fads headed toward oblivion on so many levels. 

So, add Facebook to that list. All those social Websites like Twitter, Facebook, Google+…it’s everybody shouting at once and no one is listening. I am about to bail on all of them. What’s the point? 

But enough of that…check out today’s stories. In one story, Microsoft is supposedly going to give you a $15 coupon for Windows 8 when you buy a Windows 7 computer before the release of 8. I don’t give a damn if it was free…I am not upgrading any computer to that piece of crap. And as far as buying a Windows 8 Tablet running on ARM (see the story on Windows RT), why would I buy anything that gives me computing power so much less than what I have now.  And what a stupid name…Windows RT! Even Microsoft doesn’t know what it means. 

And now Firefox is releasing a beta version of Firefox for my Android phone. I am glad about that. I will download it shortly. But what about releasing a version for my iPad? Safari sucks.  Now, I love most everything about my iPad, but not the browser.  Even a Chrome browser would be welcome.

As for the story about Twitter sending me highlights for this week’s best Tweets, what a joke. Most were stories about people I consider human garbage. You bet I am going to shut that down.  Screw the Kardashians, the Kutchers, and other people of their ilk who have nothing to offer humanity.  To follow them is to lower your IQ to dangerous levels. And please, for God’s sake, shut down reality TV...for the sake of our children.

OK, I think that is it for now. Thanks for letting me rant. I feel a little better, but then I realize that no one is going to read this, and I get depressed again. Why do I continue to write when nobody gives a damn? It's only me shouting again. – JRC

Windows 8 Pro PC Upgrade Cost is Just $15

 

A coming Microsoft promotion will provide Windows 8 Pro to buyers of Windows 7-based PCs for just $14.99, according to my sources. The promotion begins June 2.

Windows RT 'isn't Windows'

It appears to me that Microsoft's caught between a rock and a hard place. If it keeps the "Windows" name in Windows RT they'll not only confuse the living daylights out of hundreds of millions of consumers, Microsoft will also have to explain to a jury someday why it allows competitors' products into all of Windows 8 but doesn't allow access to all of Windows RT.

Intel Windows 8 tablets to hit retail stores in November

And don't expect just tablets. "More than 50 percent" of the "more than a dozen" designs will be hybrids, aka convertibles, the source said. Those designs combine aspects of a traditional physical keyboard-based laptop and tablet.

Microsoft quietly rolls out Silverlight 5.1

Microsoft made available for download Silverlight 5.1 on May 8. Here’s what’s included in this minor update.

Mozilla Releases Firefox for Android Beta

Firefox for Android supports more than 70 devices running different versions of the operating system--from Android 2.2 ("Froyo") to Android 4.0 ("Ice Cream Sandwich"). The beta is only available for phones (not tablets).

Twitter Is Now Sending You Weekly Email Digests; Here's How to Turn Them Off

 

Twitter just added a new feature that sends you a weekly email with the most popular tweets and links from people you follow.

Hate commercials? Dish Network launches automatic ad-skipping feature

As more consumers turn to the DVR to fast-forward through annoying commercials, Dish Network has advanced this feature even further by eliminating the fast-forwarding step.

Filtering emails in Outlook

Outlook offers several ways to filter emails. A filter lets you see only those messages that meet certain criteria. For example, you could pick a filter that lets you see only emails that have attachments or are unread. Here's how it works.

MultiMon Taskbar - Free

MultiMon Taskbar Free is an application that places a simple, basic taskbar on your secondary monitor, or even on two secondary monitors if you have a triple-monitor setup.