The Good Side of Microsoft…that Doesn’t Help Us Consumers

Although I have spent a great deal of space here blasting Microsoft for their bungled attempts to put out a useful operating system (and a few other products), I was reminded by a couple of articles this week that Microsoft is indeed making lots of money. Most of their serious revenues are coming from the Enterprise side.

Microsoft is thriving in the business environment with some of their forward thinking products. Most of us have never heard of Windows Azure, SharePoint, Office 365, PowerShell, and Hadoop. These are for large and small businesses…and they continue to do very well with these and other Enterprise products.

Most of us are consumer users so these products mean nothing to us…but Windows 8 is only a small part of the Microsoft machine. So, those of us who would like to see some management changes to get Microsoft back on track in the consumer division, don’t look for anything soon. Microsoft is still very profitable. To read more, check out story #6.

There are a lot of news and information here for us poor, lowly consumers, so let’s get to it. -JRC

T-Mobile comes clean about 'uncarrier' service plan

T-Mobile USA's "radical" service plans promising no annual contracts aren't quite as radical as consumers might think, and the mobile operator will change its advertising and offer refunds in a settlement with the state of Washington.

Google Now 'talks' its way onto iOS

The mashup of personal assistant and predictive search known as Google Now gets approved for iOS (iPad’s and iPhones). But will it take attention away from Siri?

Which Tech Companies Protect Your Data From the Government?

The Electronic Frontier Foundation just released its annual "Who Has Your Back" report card, detailing the privacy policies of tech companies. Here's the rundown of who fights for your privacy in the face of government requests for your data—and who doesn't even bother.

Skype + Outlook.com

Here’s question I’ve received many times: When will Microsoft integrate Skype with its Outlook.com web email platform? Well, this week I’ve got good news to share: It’s happening in preview form, starting today.

Windows 8: A Six-Month Report Card

I don’t believe that Microsoft has ever shipped a version of Windows as incomplete/undone as is Windows 8 and yet the firm is not moving as quickly as I’d like to fix the very glaring issues with this release.

Apple versus Microsoft: the ticker tape tells the tale

If all you ever read is the tech press, you probably think Microsoft is doomed, and you probably can't understand why Apple's stock has plunged over the last six months. Maybe it's because the press is only seeing a tiny slice of the pie.

Apple’s iOS 7 Said to Be ‘Very, Very Flat’

iOS 7 is in for a major UI overhaul courtesy of the man himself, Jony Ive. While it may prove to be irritating for existing customers, the new “flat” UI apart of Apple’s next major iOS iteration will be attractive to those new to the platform.

50 Apps That Can Make You More Productive

Get the most out of yourself and your time with these productivity and efficiency apps for mobile devices, desktop computers, and the Web.

The Best Antivirus for 2013

Three products share the Editors' Choice honor for best overall antivirus...and one of them is free!

How to Use Pinterest for Beginners

Everyone's talking about Pinterest but not everyone 'gets' it. You will after following these seven steps to Pinterest fluency.

Online security: Your two-factor authorization checklist

As Twitter gets ready to roll out two-factor authentication, here's a rundown of how other major online services use the security feature

Chrome Has Become a Big Fat Memory Hog

Steve Gibson, on his weekly “Security Now” podcast, pointed out that Google’s Chrome Browser has become a bloated memory hog. At startup, with only one blank web page open, Chrome used up 250 MB of RAM. By contrast, he said Opera used only 50. I did my own experiment with the new Internet Explorer 10. My results showed around 48 MB of memory used.

Not long ago, I started using IE10 for the heck of it. I found it fast, responsive and much better than it used to be. It is become my second browser of choice behind Firefox. I run it sandboxed as I do Chrome (although that it seldom used anymore).

In this edition, I included part 2 of the articles on “Going Google.” As I said last week, I will publish them as they come out.

I was dismayed to see my e-mail choice, Outlook.com, will start including ads soon (see story #4). That doesn’t make me very happy, but that is their prerogative…as it is my prerogative to look for a new e-mail host. Not an easy thing to do…Gmail is out as I don’t like it very much. I might just continue to use Outlook.com as it has so many excellent features, but I may have close my right eye to ignore the ads.

I am also experimenting with different calendar options since Microsoft screwed up Outlook.com calendar app. In working with it lately to enter new events, I found I have to take a very unnecessary additional step to enter a location. That is just plain dumb as all my calendar entries have locations.

As for to-do lists and reminders, I’ve settled on Wunderlist as I can use it on all my computers, phones, and tablets. It is a terrific cross-platform app with several nice features.

But enough of my needs and wants, let’s move on with stories that might interest you. -JRC

Microsoft expects cheaper Windows 8 PCs and tablets this fall

Using Intel's new 'Haswell' Core and 'Bay Trail' Atom processors could lower prices dramatically and boost battery life

Microsoft issues new version of patch pulled on Patch Tuesday

Microsoft has issued a new version of a patch after an earlier version caused some users' machines to suffer the blue screen of death.

Apple fans face a big iWait on new product categories, services

Apple teased new products and services in the year ahead, but it's unclear whether a better dividend and shareholder cash will buy the company more patience.

Ads coming soon to your Outlook.com inbox

Since Outlook.com is a free service, used by 60 million people at the last count, ads in the interface were deemed to arrive in your inbox sooner or later.

Want the most reliable Windows PC? Buy a Mac (or maybe a Dell)

A new report from Soluto uses data from its massive online database of PC crashes, hangs, and performance metrics to identify the 10 most reliable Windows PCs you can buy today. Surprisingly, a MacBook Pro is at the top of the list. Hilarious.

How to set up two-factor authentication for Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and more

No more excuses! Microsoft, Google, and Facebook make it easy to improve your account security with two-factor authentication. Here's how.

Going Google (apps), Part 2: Move your docs

In Part 1 of this series on Google apps, I covered the relatively simple process of moving all your mail to Gmail. Part 2 covers why and how you move Microsoft Office documents to the cloud and to Google apps.

15 Best Free Add-ins to Make Outlook Better

There are hundreds of add-ins available for Outlook, but in this post we are covering the best free add-ins to get the best out of Outlook.

The Massive Digital Library of the Future Just Opened Its 'Doors'

After two and a half years of development, the Digital Public Library of America finally flipped the switch on and opened its website at DP.LA. Collecting items from institutions cross the country, the library has already collected more than two million items in its searchable database. And that's just the beginning.

Retro Sci-Fi Screensaver

Turn your normally useful PC into a meaninglessly busy display
like those in old sci-fi movies and TV shows. Fun.

I’ll Take Congress for $84 Million, Alex

Our lead story is how much money it took to buy House yes votes for CISPA. In terms of today’s dollars, these Congress Persons are really cheap buys. The House of Representatives…aka…the Parliament of Whores, sold their votes for a mere $84 million. Even the smallest tech companies up for sale would laugh at a cheap offer like that.

Meanwhile, our friends in Redmond continue to surprise, then disappoint us. Last week I told you about the return of the Start Button rumor for Windows 8.1. While that is looking more and more like a possibility, what may not return is the Start Menu that pops up when you hit the Start Button.

So what will you get? You guessed it…the Metro screen in all its glory. They seem to want to stick this down our throats any way they can. But, of course, third party developers have found ways around the Microsoft blunder…and I have included a list of the best free ones in this edition. The boys in Redmond just don’t get it.

Some tech pundits are complaining that Apple has lost their magic mojo. And while their products haven’t changed much lately, that is what people apparently want. In the first 3 months of this year, Apple sold 37.4 million iPhones and 19.5 million iPads, compared to 35.1 million iPhones and 11.8 million iPads in the year-ago quarter. I would say they are doing some things right. Their profit margin did drop to a cool $9.5 billion. I could live with that.

But, there is some great info here, as usual. If you use a router for your Internet Connections, you definitely need to read the latest installment of “Home Networking Explained.” OK…let’s go! - JRC

Somewhere Everywhere, Big Brother Is Smiling: Congress Sells Your Privacy For A Cool $84 Million

In case you were wondering why so many Democrats switched sides during the most recent CISPA vote, the answer is exactly what you think it is: $$$. And lots of it.

Leaked Windows 8.1 Build 9374 disappoints Start button fans

Those of us who are waiting with bated breath for signs of the Start menu's resurrection found a lump of coal in our stockings. Click the Start Button and it opens up Metro.

Google Glass mysteries revealed

After long list of announcements and revelations about Google's cyborg eyewear, here's what we've learned and what it means

How a Webcam Pointed at a Police Radio Won the Internet Friday

A quarter of a million people tuned in to the streaming video image of Uniden Bearcat scanner radio picking up publicly available police communications traffic in Boston.

Home networking explained, part 6: Keep your network secure

f you were concerned after reading CNET's recent report that most home routers can be easily hacked, I don't blame you. The study did sound ominous, but the good news is that your network is likely far less susceptible than the report suggests. And more importantly, there are things you can do to make sure it's secure.

Final arrangements: Hitting the digital dead man's switch

Go beyond Google -- here's how to automatically wrap up your online affairs and ensure a proper digital burial after you die

When Mobile Photography Beats Traditional Photography

There are 9 benefits of mobile cameras over traditional cameras. They include accessibility; integrated capture, edit and share functions; simplicity; access to the work of other photographers; reduced clutter; the focus on composition; and fun.

How to minimize noise in digital photos

Film grain was every photographer’s nemesis. Instead of smooth, natural textures, grain put ugly blotches all over a photo. And though the days of grainy photos are far behind us, digital photos have a similar problem: digital noise.

Best Free Windows 8 Start Menu Replacement

If you use Windows 8, here are three free programs to bring back the desktop. The best of the free applications is Classic Shell. If you are using Windows 8 and wish you had the familiar desktop back, give it a try.

Need To Trim An MP3 File? Do It Online.

Do you need to download and install an audio file editor, just to trim the ends of an MP3 track? Thankfully, no. You can do it all online, for free.

Final arrangements: Hitting the digital dead man's switch

Go beyond Google -- here's how to automatically wrap up your online affairs and ensure a proper digital burial after you die

Controversial Privacy Bill Passes The House

While it is a long way from being passed into law and the President is already threatening a veto, the controversial Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (or CISPA) has been passed by the House.

CISPA is designed to let the federal government work with private companies to fight hackers and cybercriminals in and outside of the United States. As part of the effort to detect cyber threats, private companies could voluntarily share with the government data about Internet users, without a warrant.

While the intention of the bill is honorable, we all know that the road to hell is paved with good intentions…and governments throughout history have all wanted to know more about us than is necessary. Still a long way to go on this bill, so stay tuned.

There is a new series starting on “Going Google”…the first installment on moving to Gmail is our story #6. While I am becoming less and less enchanted with Google, you might be feeling different. So beginning in this edition, I will post links to the upcoming articles as they appear.

Well, with all this said and done, let’s take a look at all that is new. -JRC

CISPA passes U.S. House: Death of the Fourth Amendment?

The controversial cybersecurity bill has passed the U.S. House and is now on its way to the Senate chamber. Privacy groups believe this tramples on the Fourth Amendment.

Top Wi-Fi routers easy to hack, says study

The most popular home wireless routers are easily hacked and there's little you can do to stop it, says a new study by research firm Independent Security Evaluators. But there are some things you can do to make them safer.

Finally, Twitter Music is available to all

Weeks after CNET first reported on the new service, Twitter has finally let the public in on its new #music app through the Web and iOS.

Two free, full-blown alternatives to MS Office

As Microsoft’s Office has grown in size and complexity, more than a few users have wondered whether there’s a viable alternative — especially when it comes time to pay for an upgrade or new copy. There are very few alternatives. Two — Open Office and LibreOffice — provide the core functionality of classic versions of Microsoft Office and are completely free!

Now That We Have All These Devices, It's Time For Them To Truly Work Together

It's time for someone to take the next step, and bring our devices together in ways that maximize the truly amazing potential they have as a collective, which dwarfs even the impressive things they can now all do on their own.

Going Google (apps), Part 1: Move your mail

Are you getting tired of struggling with Microsoft’s increasingly complex, sometimes arcane, and always expensive versions of Office? This article, the first in a series, will show you how easy it is to move from bloated and pricey desktop programs to fast, free — though somewhat less capable — Google apps.

Get Organized: 5 Handy Tricks in Microsoft Word

That pesky line in the middle of your document is back! And what's up with all that unwanted formatting from pasted text? Learn how to fix these problems, as well as master three other productivity tricks in Microsoft Word.

Become an Evernote power user: 10 must-know tips

Evernote is friendly when you’re getting started with it, but the more you use it, the more your notes can pile up, threatening your productivity.

The techiest cars of 2013

Edmunds.com and PCWorld/TechHive collaborated to identify and review the ten 2013 automobiles that are doing the most interesting things with in-car technology, and doing them well.

Microsoft’s six free desktop security tools

Whether you’re keeping your PC free from malware or cleaning up a PC that’s already infected, one or more of these tools should get the job done! Most Windows users probably don’t know that Microsoft offers an array of free security tools. Some are included with Windows, others available by download.

Holy Rumors, Batman!! Microsoft May Restore Start Button

I think you know by now I hate publishing rumors. Too many rumors are published as fact as many never happen. But this latest Windows rumors comes from two very reliable sources.

Mary Jo Foley, a ZDNet reporter and blogger, is reporting Microsoft is strongly considering restoring the Start Button to Windows 8.1 (Microsoft Blue) AND giving users the option to bypass the Metro Start Screen and go right to the desktop.

The Verge, another excellent technology Web site, says they confirmed that Microsoft is testing the bypass to boot directly to the Desktop. But they stop short of saying it will be implemented and make no reference to the Start Button.

These two missing items are the biggest complaints against Windows 8. I’ve said from the beginning that if those two things were included in Windows 8, it may not have been such a horrible flop. Again, remember these are just rumors right now…but good ones. We will keep you updated.

On another subject, last week we actively reported that PC sales are the worst they have been in many years and that Windows 8 is the main reason why. While that may be true, the story needs to be put in perspective.

Stories like this use percentages for comparisons…to me the real story is actual numbers. In the last fiscal quarter, around 75 million desktop computers were sold. Now, compare that to Apple iPad sales…they’ve sold 100 million iPad in 3 years! An excellent number…but that is 3 years worth of sales compared to 3 months of PC sales. So, the PC computer is a long way from being dead. A good OS could bring it back to life. For more, check out story #5.

Lots of other interesting stories, information, and software tips. So you best get started. -JRC

Dish launches $25B bid for Sprint

Dish Network is offering Sprint shareholders a total consideration of $25.5 billion, consisting of $17.3 billion in cash and $8.2 billion in stock.

Verizon unveils $35 prepaid mobile phone plan

The new plan offers 500 monthly minutes of talk time and unlimited texting and Internet but is available only for feature phones.

Guantanamo legal files mysteriously disappear from PCs

Legal documents by lawyers representing detainees charged with plotting 9/11 vanish, while hundreds of thousands of e-mails also land on the computers of prosecuting attorneys.

Microsoft pulls Patch Tuesday security fix

Tech giant Microsoft has recommended that an update released in the latest Patch Tuesday be removed, after users reported incidents of the "blue screen of death" after installation.

'Post-PC' does not mean 'no PC'

The accelerating decline of PC sales doesn't mean they'll disappear, but it means computing will change dramatically

Microsoft is Ending Support for Windows XP in 2014: What You Need to Know

Starting on April 8, 2014, no new security patches for Windows XP will be produced. Windows XP will remain vulnerable as new patches are found, and Microsoft will advise you upgrade your operating system. Microsoft will also no longer offer any technical support for Windows XP.

Facebook Home gets SMACKDOWN from irate users

Facebook's app that takes over mobile phones has been met with a flurry of negative reviews, as people complain at just how much Facebook Zuck & Co. have put into their phones.

Who needs MS Office for iOS and Android? CloudOn's here now

Microsoft's much-rumored Office app for iOS and Android may not pop up until later next year. But CloudOn's Office app fills the bill quite nicely.

Get Organized: Tidy Up Your Camera Bag

What should hobbyist photographers carry besides their cameras, and how can you organize all this stuff to keep all your equipment safe?

The 100 Best iPhone Apps

An iPhone without apps is like a computer without software. Here are the best 100 apps we know and love. If you have an iPhone, you should get to know them, too.

Best Free Android Apps

This list of Best Free Android Apps now includes 213 apps in 117 categories.

Damn! I Really Wanted a Microsoft-Free Day

I was reminded today just how far tech has come in my lifetime. I sat at the pool on another glorious Tucson day alternately watching the Giants/Cubs game and Round 1 of the Masters…both in hi-def on my iPad. I was also playing Angry Birds Rio on my iPhone and had my Kindle at-hand in case I got bored.

I thought to myself that all these tech tools that keep me entertained and informed are only a few years old. Not that long ago, all I could do was bring a book to the pool, or a portable radio to listen to a baseball game. I see college kids at the pool doing their homework and takings tests on their laptops and tablets. I am told many college courses require a computer and a connection to the Internet…or you can’t take the class. When I went to college, all I had was a typewriter.

Believe me, I am not saying those were the good old days…far from it. I love most of the tech innovations that are now so ingrained in our lives. It’s just that every so often I remember where we were and where we are now. It’s a form of nostalgia, but in reverse. Can’t wait to see what I will take to the pool next year.

I don’t mean to continually beat-up on Microsoft, but things just keep happening that make news for Microsoft…mostly bad. I will be the first to admit I am angry at Microsoft. Not because I want to be…far from it.

I have been using Microsoft products since the 1980’s to get things done on computers. Most of what I do in business, photography and writing could not have been done without the forward thinking of Microsoft and their products…from DOS to Windows to Office and more. In fact, this blog is written using Microsoft Writer…the best blogging tool out there. Microsoft has been my champions…and for years I looked forward to their next set of innovations.

Then along comes Windows 8. Was I looking forward to it? You bet. I even installed the first test version on one of my computers. But, they let me (and you) down…big time. What they are trying to foist on us now just gets in the way of productivity. They’ve changed everything…and not for the better. They changed it for the sake of change. And they keep moving forward with it, saying this is their future…whether we like it or not…and we don’t.

I don’t know what happened to common sense in Redmond. Its like the company is being run by drunken sailors, making changes that make no sense. It makes me angry and also sad. It’s why I now have an iPad and an iPhone. They work and they work well.

I pray to God some changes are made at Microsoft soon to get them back on the right track. My desktop computer is still my most used tech tool. I want it to have a workable future.

Besides the bad news about Microsoft, there are good stories and informative articles here that just might help you out. Thanks for reading. -JRC

IRS claims it can read your e-mail without a warrant

The ACLU has obtained internal IRS documents that say Americans enjoy "generally no privacy" in their e-mail messages, Facebook chats, and other electronic communications.

IDC shows Windows 8 is actively destroying PC sales

Windows 8 is an unimaginably bad OS but you know that. How bad is it? According to no less than IDC’s VP of Clients and Displays it flat-out killed the market.

The death of the PC: Invented by Apple, accelerated by Microsoft

Apple's iPad was designed to change computing, but Microsoft's bungling of Windows dramatically hastened the progress

Five operating system alternatives to Windows 8 and XP

Windows XP's end of life-support is in sight and not everybody wants Windows 8. So, what are your other choices?

Google launches an Inactive Account Manager to help users plan their ‘digital afterlife'

Google launched a new tool called Inactive Account Manger today, which is designed to help users protect or delete their data in the event that they pass away or can no longer access their account.

Surprise: Rep. Bob Goodlatte Thinks The Justice Department Is Too Cozy With Hollywood

Based on his past record, it is interesting to see Goodlatte less-than-happy about some aspect of the DOJ and Hollywood's close and personal relationship.

How to Take Better Photos With Your Smartphone

It won't replace a dedicated digital camera, but that smartphone in your pocket probably has a pretty capable camera. Here's how to up the quality of your cell phone snaps—without relying on Instagram-type filters.

Free Amazon Web Services -- and how to make the most of them

If you avoid some gotchas and keep a close eye on resource usage, you can have a handy server in the Amazon cloud for free.

Get Organized: 15 Productivity Tips From Experts

Who knows productivity practices better than the people who make productivity and task-management apps? Four experts share some advice on how they stay productive.

A dozen tools for removing almost any malware

Need to get a system clean of malware and/or verify that it’s completely malware-free? Use one or more of these free tools to clean up even the worst malware infections — and keep PCs clean.

MusicZen - Freeware download

MusicZen is an easy to use MP3 organizer that enables you to organize your MP3 collection into folders named after the artist, album and year information.

OK, Google. It’s Your Turn Under the Microscope

Google is still taking heat for cancelling its popular Google Reader. And last week, we mentioned how Arthur Frommer reacquired his well known travel book brand from Google because they ceased publication of his long-running travel books. 

But, upon further review, it turns out Google has cancelled many apps and programs over the last 18 months. In fact, over 70 of them have been cancelled. Our second story does a great job of listing them…some probably deserved the guillotine, but others were popular and quite good. In their own way, Google is following in the Microsoft tradition of “my way or the highway.”

It gives one pause before opting in to a Google application. Personally, I am slowly moving away from them whenever I can…when it makes sense, of course. I doubt Google Search or Gmail are going away, but I can assure you others will…for example the newly-announced note taking application, Google Keep. It is trying to compete with Evernote…good luck with that. So I bet a dollar to a donut it will be gone in the next couple of years.

All I am saying is “buyer beware,” when choosing a free Google app. Always have a backup plan. We do have some other good stories and information here, so let’s move forward. -JRC

Facebook wrestles Google for control of your phone

The social-networking giant is inserting itself between consumers and Android, and that should make Google a little nervous.

Google grim reaper: 18 months of killed projects

By my count, Google has discontinued more than 70 free-standing apps and major sets of APIs in eight different "spring cleanings" over the past 18 months. This might make you nervous about adopting Google products for your use.

Hey! You! Get off of Google’s cloud!

Another lesson learned is that no software is forever, whether it comes advertiser-supported, free, or with a price tag.

Vudu resets user passwords after hard drives lost in office burglary

Video service says burglars stole hard drives containing sensitive personal information, including names, e-mail addresses, phone numbers, and some credit card information.

Windows 8 laptops can't command Windows 7 prices

Many of the Windows 7 laptops still available are priced higher than their Windows 8 equivalents, an examination of several online retailers reveals.

Samsung to open mini-stores inside Best Buy

Samsung gets retail space in North America to help it compete with Apple in the race for dominance of the U.S. smartphone market, and Best Buy dedicates more of its space to profitable products like Samsung smartphones, TVs and tablets.

Steve Jobs Worked on Upcoming iPhones, Exec Says

According to a report in the San Francisco Examiner, Apple's Michael Foulkes said during testimony about device kill switch technology that development of the next two generations iPhones preceded current CEO Tim Cook.

Best Android tablets (April 2013 edition)

Don't want to give your money to Apple in exchange for an iPad or iPad mini? No problem! Here are my top 5 Android tablets for April 2013.

Hands on with Outlook.com's new calendar

Just like with Google Calendar, Outlook lets you create new calendars, import them from a file, subscribe to a calendar URL, and share calendars or events with contacts.

What's the Difference Between Ethernet Cables, and Will They Make My Network Faster?

The differences between each type of cable can get very complicated and have a lot to do with network standards, but we'll tell you just what you need to know: how they'll practically affect the speed of your home network.

The Promised Facebook Phone? You May Be Holding It.

For a few years, there have been any number of rumors about a "Facebook phone." Finally today, the big rumor came to fruition. Well, sort of. In fact, there is no Facebook Phone. Instead there is an application called “Home” that will run on Android phones (some new ones, anyway).

Facebook Home, is a home screen interface (or "a family of apps") that can be installed by users on top of Android. Facebook says that the purpose of Home is to shift attention away from tasks and apps to their friends instead. OK. Let’s see if people buy into this. You can read more about “Home” in our first story.

In the last edition, I blasted Microsoft for their update of Outlook.com’s calendar app. It seems I am in the minority. Most critics gave it decent praise. They loved the modern Metro colors that replace the pastel colors of the old Hotmail calendar. I must be getting old. Oh, wait, I am.

I liked the old pastel colors. I also liked the tabs on top where I could easily move the views from  year, to month, to week, to day, and even to tasks. Now, I have to use a drop down menu to choose. In effect, an extra step. The tasks menu, which was never really great, is even worse.

I am not going to stop using Outlook.com. First, there is nothing better for me. Second, I really like the e-mail and contacts interface. They did a really outstanding job here. And the mail, calendar and contacts still sync well with the corresponding Apple apps on my iPhone and iPad. Oh yea…Apple still uses pastel colors…for senior citizens like me.

I have a word of advice for all the folks out their younger than me…just because something is a few years old, it doesn’t mean it needs to be changed. If it works well, don’t change it. If it doesn’t, by all means, change it. And changing colors doesn’t make it better.

I am now off my soapbox…and I hope you find today’s stories to be useful. Yes, there are once again stories that put Microsoft in a bad light. But, they are just the facts. Be sure and check out the story on how to get 100 GB of free cloud storage. I signed up. Let’s go!! - JRC

Facebook unveils 'Home' for Android mobile gadgets

With its new "Home" on Android gadgets, Facebook aims make its social network the hub of people's mobile experiences. The question, now, is whether people want all their Facebook content greeting them every time they look at their phones.

Prices Of Windows 8 Machines Are Falling. Wow, Demand Must Be Red Hot!

Notebook manufacturers appear to be lowering the prices of some Windows 8 notebooks and tablets. Six out of the fourteen Windows 8 notebooks or tablets sold by Microsoft via its Windows Store now come with discounts attached...one of them dropped 30%!

A Not-So-Warm Welcome for Windows 8.1

We now know that Windows Blue will be called Windows 8.1 and is expected to be distributed in August. But we still don't know why Microsoft seems to be pushing the "Metro" aspects of the OS rather than backing off when it is clear nobody likes it.

Analysts say Windows RT tablets price drop means OS has failed

Though Microsoft has not publicly acknowledged the failure of Windows RT, there is already growing concern about the fate of the OS. IDC earlier this month said that Windows RT tablet shipments have been poor, and that consumers have not bought into "Windows RT's value proposition."

Microsoft's next Patch Tuesday to include critical IE and Windows 7 updates

Nine security bulletins will be issued on that day, and two of them will be labeled as "Critical".

Where can you find a PC running Windows 7?

Some of my readers are complaining that they want to avoid Windows 8, but they can't find Windows 7 PCs. Really? I just surveyed the market and found plenty of Windows 7 choices. The secret is knowing where to look.

Why some U.S. homes and businesses still don't have cellular service

While large portions of the U.S. are looking forward to faster wireless broadband, some regions don't have even simple cell phone service. What is being done to help?

Arthur Frommer reacquires travel book brand from Google

Travel expert plans to resume publishing of the travel books, which the Web giant acquired but killed last month.

What to Do with a Hung or Unresponsive Windows 7 Program

Sooner or later it happens to all of us – a Windows program gets hung up and just sits there frozen. You can open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and try to close the hung program or use the command line to kill it. But there is more to this story.

Want 100GB Of Free Cloud-Based Storage?

A new player in the cloud storage market is offering 100 GB of space to the first million people to sign up to its service. However, there's clearly a waiting list for the service, so you won't get your free space right away.

Freeware Chess

Do you like to play chess? Would you play chess against your computer? Here is a simple free chess application. The handling of this program is easy. There is no need to read a manual.

April Fools–Microsoft’s Latest Joke on us

April Fools Day is always a fun day in the tech world. Major tech companies all over the US create April Fools jokes by releasing fake stories that have some sense of believability. If you are a tech writer like myself, you always must be aware of the date when scanning the latest tech stories.

Someone, and I can’t remember who, almost got me last year with a story that was so believable and fantastic I almost posted it here in this blog. Then it hit me what day it was. Saved by my brain.

This year produced a plethora of fake stories…my favorite being Google’s latest update to Gmail…the so-called “Gmail Blue.” They even put out a video announcing this new product. Of course, it didn’t take much to figure out it was a fake…but one has to laugh at Google’s attempt to make fun of Microsoft Blue.

But Microsoft returned the favor by making their Bing search page look identical to Google’s search page. That was cute. My top two stories relate the best of this year’s jokes as well as the best jokes from the past. Just enjoy them for what they are.

However, today, April 2, I thought Microsoft continued the joke with the release of their Outlook.com calendar…after 8 months of waiting. I was looking for something new and exciting in their calendar program. Turns out all they really did was change the colors on my color-coded entries. Now, I have those god-awful Metro colors on my calendar.

We waited eight months for this? Oh, they did change a few things on their entry screen, but nothing worth writing about. And PS: Since they made their change, I have not received one e-mail in the last 7 hours. Not good, especially as I did send myself 3 messages with stories for this edition. If I could afford it, I would go all Apple right now. AGRHHHHH!  

(see follow-up on my adventures with MY Outlook.com account below)

There are some other interesting stories here as well as some good tips…so let’s get to it. –JCR

The Best April Fools' Day 2013 Tech Pranks

From Gmail Blue to the Toshiba Shibasphere, here are some of tech's best April Fools' gags.

10 best techy April Fools' pranks through the ages

Don't worry, you won't see any April Fools' jokes here, but there have been some crackers over the years. Here's just a few.

The genie is out of the bottle: Aereo's court victory and what it means for the TV business

A major appeals court ruling says that Aereo - which lets users watch and record live TV to mobile devices - doesn't violate copyright law. The decision is the biggest blow yet to the existing TV business.

Outlook.com Finally Gets a Modern Calendar Experience

We may never know what took so long, but Microsoft today finally announced that it is transitioning the Outlook.com Calendar to the modern experience that has graced the service’s other components—Mail, People, and SkyDrive—since last year.

Five reasons why the Windows desktop isn't going away

The speculation on the next version of Windows (code-named Blue) is getting out of hand. Based on a few screenshots and one offhand remark from a prominent Windows blogger, one of my colleagues is convinced that the Windows desktop is an endangered species. Nope. Not gonna happen.

Storage wars heat up, as Amazon syncs Cloud Drive

Amazon offers 5GB of free Cloud Drive storage with additional storage available at tiered price plans that start at 20GB for $10 a year.

This Is Not The Cloud Computing We Should Have

Even though I was never a big Google Reader user, its death has got me thinking about online services quite a bit lately -- and really reminded me that we've done the cloud wrong. Rather than build true cloud computing, we've built a bunch of lockboxes.

Get Organized: Change Your Wi-Fi Name and Password

When guests arrive, do you fumble to find that secret slip of paper with random numbers and letters that is your Wi-Fi password? Get organized, and change your Wi-Fi network name and password.

The malware wars: How you can fight it

Malware most often embeds itself with our unwitting help, but even when we have our defenses fully up, malware can still climb aboard. Nevertheless, there are practical and effective ways to defeat it — or clean it out after the fact.

As Mozilla turns 15, Firefox 20 debuts with new privacy

Firefox includes a new enhancement to private browsing that allows you to open a new private browsing window without closing or changing your current browsing session

Tax time! We name the best PC-based solutions for filing your returns

The race is on. As procrastinators gather their W-2 forms and receipts, small-fry tax sites and apps battle with three full-fledged software programs—H&R Block at Home, TaxAct, and TurboTax—for your last-minute filing business.

 

PS: A follow-up on my Outlook.com mail account. Just as I finished this blog, I got one e-mail. Then I started checking…I found out I did get all my e-mail for the last 7 hours, including mail from me to me…it all came in as trash and was sent to the junk mail box. Must be a new Metro feature.

Good News: No Depressing Microsoft Stories Today

Every once-in-a-while, I get to do a Microsoft-free day. Oh, there are plenty of stories out there…trust me on that one. Just none that are really important. Today, I want to keep everything on a mostly positive note. The first story is a bit of a bummer, but the rest are interesting and may be of help to you.

My two favorite stories this day are #2, about the 10 new features now in Feedly…and #3 about the latest update to one of my favorite apps, Flipboard.

Feedly has become my RSS reader of choice. I hardly look at Google Reader any more. I’ve been able to customize Feedly to meet my needs…and the 10 new added features really make it better.

As for Flipboard, it is one of my most used apps on the iPad. Now, with the release of V.2, I can easily create my own beautiful magazines in just seconds. I’ve created two so far and am enjoying the experience. The good news is that I can also add stories to my magazine direct from the Web browser on my desktop computer. The bad news is no one can see my magazines unless they have Flipboard installed. I hope they fix that so my magazines can be seen by all. 

As I’ve said here before, I dislike publishing rumors as so many do not come to pass. Too many tech journalists publish rumors as if they are facts. But, occasionally, I will let you know some of the most possible rumors…just as long as you know they are rumors.

Current rumors floating around the tech world: Apple will announce its own streaming music service this summer; Another Apple rumor says the iPhone 5s will be announced in June; Facebook will announce their own branded Android phone next week; and some new code released by Microsoft indicates they may produce 7” Surface tablets in the future. Take them all with a grain of salt.

There is some other good information here including Part 5 of setting up a home network; some pricing comparisons for all the cell phone carriers; and some good info on charging your devices…some of it surprised me. So let’s get right to it. - JRC

Who's To Blame For The Huge Cyberattack Slowing The Web? Your ISP

The Internet is groaning today under the load of a huge cyberattack - one of the worst on record - that's clogged some of its most vital systems. almost no one is talking about the real villains here: the world's Internet service providers.

Feedly Updates with 10 New Features to Help Ease Your Google Reader Transition

Feedly has updated their interface to make it a bit more friendly to Google Reader converts, while making it easy to switch between all its different views. Its List View is denser now, similar to what Google Reader fans are used to, while also adding keyboard shortcuts, better sorting, and more.

Flipboard 2.0 Lets You Curate Your Own Stunning Digital Magazines

Flipboard remains one of the most beautiful ways to peruse the day’s news, photos and social media sharings. While the first iteration of Flipboard was all about consumption and discovery, today’s update adds a new dimension to the experience: content creation and curation.

Google Keep vs. OneNote vs. Evernote: We name the note-app winner

Think of these tools as sticky notes on steroids. They're great for managing day-to-day errands and stashing rich media content, but also exceptional for organizing tasks at work. (Hint: its not Keep)

What’s the best way to charge your mobile devices?

You're packing for a trip. You've already crammed the chargers for your smartphone and laptop into your bag. Then you ask yourself: "Do I really need to bring them all? Wouldn't one or two chargers do the trick?"

Google, LinkedIn, and Microsoft prove no cloud is too big to fail

Crashes are inevitable in the cloud. The trick to a successful cloud strategy is to design for the impending failure.

Home networking explained, Part 5: Setting up a home router

CNET editor Dong Ngo explains the best way to set up most Wi-Fi routers: via the Web interface. This guide can be applied to all consumer-grade routers in the market, save those from Apple.

4G data plans: Less choice than the competition might indicate

AT&T vs. Sprint vs. Verizon vs. T-Mobile. T-Mobile debuts its 'radical' data plans, which tend to cost less than competitors, but overall expenses are similar.

The 6 Most Popular eBook Formats To Know About

Here are the top e-book formats used by today's e-book readers, phones, and tablets. Tip: the terrific free program, Calibre, can convert one format to another to accommodate your device.

Calibre Portable Download

Calibre Portable is program to manage your e-book collection. It acts as an e-library and also allows for format conversion, news feeds to eBook conversion, as well as e-book reader sync features and an integrated e-book viewer. The most important companion you can have for any e-book reader.

New Microsoft Stuff Designed to Promote Mediocrity

Sadly, Windows 8 is back in the news with one update and one peek at Windows Blue. If you use Windows 8, you will be happy to get updated fixes for three built-in Metro Apps. But be warned, the fixes still don’t make them top-of-the-line applications. Far from it.

But, even bigger news was the very unofficial peek (substitute the word “pirated” here) of the Windows 8 Blue update due this summer. As our second story points out, Window Blue is less-than-exciting and changes very little in the Windows 8 operating system.

But, several key Windows experts point out that the update is yet another signal that Microsoft intends to kill off the desktop environment over time, leaving everything to run in the Metro environment. Over my dead body…not mention the bodies of most consumers and corporate customers. I hate printing rumors and speculation here, but this was too important to skip. Again I ask, what is Microsoft thinking?

The bottom line…it’s Microsoft’s way or the highway.

Besides the Microsoft stories, there are some other interesting news and features here. In an effort to boost sales, T-Mobile is doing away with cell phone contracts. That bears knowing about and I’ve got the story here.

Also there is the new app from Google, “Keep.” It’s a note-taking application designed to rival Evernote and Microsoft’s OneNote. I’ve looked at it…no big deal…but you decide. After what Google did to Reader, I would not trust them to keep any application. Stick with Evernote and OneNote…much, much better anyway. 

If that is enough, there is still more information that you might find of interest. So, away we go!! -JCR

Major Windows 8 built-in app updates due Tuesday, Google Calendar sync will be disabled

Microsoft is preparing some major updates to its built-in Windows 8 applications starting today. The company is refreshing its communication apps: mail, calendar, and people.

Windows Blue: We waited for this?

A pirated copy of Windows Blue has hit the ether, and it may be the least interesting update to Windows ever

Windows Blue: a video preview of what's next for Windows 8

The Blue upgrade to Windows 8 looks like it's going to bring a host of improvements, fixes, and some new built-in apps too, but the biggest changes are on the UI side.

No Windows desktop mode!? No!

The early look at Blue have some Windows experts thinking that Microsoft is getting ready to dump Windows 8's desktop mode once and for all in favor of Metro. No!

T-Mobile USA kills traditional cell contracts in subscriber boost bid

By killing traditional cell phone contracts, the fourth largest US cellular network hopes to undercut its rivals who have taken on most of its defecting customers. Also, the iPhone is now available on T-Mobile.

Google Keep, an Overdue Answer to Evernote, Arrives

Google Keep stores photos, notes, voice recordings and checklists in Google Drive, so users can access their reminders from the web or any Android device — as long as its running Ice Cream Sandwich or newer.

Email forever! Why social apps can't replace it

The reality is that email is very good for what it does, and nothing out there is better. Email isn't about to go away, and trying to kill it is silly at best.

Get Organized: Keep or Delete?

Your computer likely houses a number of files that you don't actually need, but if you delete the wrong one, all hell could break loose. How do you know which ones to save and which to delete?

9 classic hacking, phishing, and social engineering lies

Whether it is on the phone, online, or in person, here are 9 lies hackers, phishers, and social engineers will tell you to get what they want

Best Free Online Applications and Services

With online applications and services, you do not need to download and install them into your computer for using them—you just need to open up a browser to access them online. We have compiled a list for best free online applications and services

8 Hidden Secrets Of Your Computer Mouse

Most computer users don’t know the hidden secrets of computer mouse. Here are some of the best computer mouse tips and tricks which help you to increase your overall productivity while on the computer.

Is the Desktop Dead? No Frigging Way!!

Sorry to be behind in publishing this blog, but have been entertaining house guests for the last several days and they keep me quite busy. Not that I mind.

Anyway, here is the latest roundup of news and tech tips that will keep you up to date and keep your computers working in your favor. -JRC

Microsoft to push Windows 7 Service Pack 1 to users starting March 19

Microsoft is starting to push Windows 7 SP1 to Windows 7 users via Windows Update, ahead of the early April end-of-support date for the RTM version of the product.

We're buying smartphones and tablets, but PCs still reign supreme

Forget what the so-called experts say…the PC is still the top dog when it comes to gadgets. In U.S. homes with Internet access, 93 percent had PCs

'Chameleon Botnet' takes $6-million-a-month in ad money

The botnet has targeted at least 202 Web sites that serve 14 billion ad impressions. The botnet apparently accounted for 9 billion of them.

Microsoft Ending Support for Windows Phone 8 Next Year, But What’s Coming Next?

The revelation instantly led to a flurry of speculation among Windows Phone users, wondering what will happen to their phones after the deadline has expired.

Samsung Galaxy S4 preview: a bigger, faster upgrade to the world's most popular Android phone

The most popular new phone is the Galaxy S4...and its not even available yet. The S4 succeeds the wildly popular Galaxy S III, and brings with it a litany of new features and tweaks - though at first glance, you might not even notice it's different.

6 Free Google Reader Alternatives

Here are six applications that are web based that have (mostly) apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android.

500,000 Google Reader users convert to Feedly

When one door closes, another one opens, and that statement proves very true for Feedly. After Google's shocking announcement that it's going to shut down its Google Reader service, Feedly's user base has increased phenomenally.

Google Keep, an Overdue Answer to Evernote, Arrives

Google Keep stores photos, notes, voice recordings and checklists in Google Drive, so users can access their reminders from the web or any Android device — as long as its running Ice Cream Sandwich or newer.

Home Maintenance by Brightnest Makes Keeping Track of Cleaning and Maintenance a Breeze

We're fans of the Brightnest Webapp for keeping track of what needs to get done in your house, and now the service has an iPhone app that works along with it. For iOS only.

Evernote Clearly

I’ve mentioned this great app before, but it bears repeating. If you are tired of opening a Web page and seeing tons of clutter and ads? Get Evernote Clearly for your browser...and just like magic, the clutter is gone. Only the important stuff remains. It's my most useful browser tool.

Google’s Wakeup Call: It’s Their Net, Not Ours

Google has again reminded us they are in charge, not us. They can cancel any product they want, no matter how many users they have. Last night, they announced the demise of Google Reader…and stopped the sale of all products in their Play store that block ads.

Google Reader is used by millions of people, including me, to gather news and information from the Internet and aggregate it all in one place. I mainly use to gather information and stories for this blog. Currently I have 113 sites feeding their latest stories to my Google Reader…and I go through most of them. It’s very important to many folks besides me. No matter, Google says it’s going and there is nothing we can do about it. Personally, I am already investigating a replacement. All of us have until June 30 to figure out alternatives.

As for the ad-blockers, such great programs as Ad Blocker, AdBlock Plus, AdAway and AdFree are no longer available in the Google Play store…meaning you can no longer block ads displayed in Google products such as the Chrome Browser or Android apps. Google says the apps are in violation of their terms of service…meaning developers can’t interfere with other’s services. 

My plan from this point off is to start limiting my use of Google products…not because I am angry at them (well maybe a little), but because they cannot be trusted. For instance, I will be discontinuing Google Drive as I cannot trust them with my data ( I will use BOX instead…they recently gave me 50GB of free storage). I seldom use the Chrome Browser and am thinking now of using something else…even though my ad blockers still work…I think. I’ve never been crazy about Chrome anyway.

There are alternatives to most of Google products, and I will check them out. I will still use Google Search, of course, because it is the best of the search engines…and they won’t discontinue it as it is their big cash cow.

But, today’s events reminds us we must be careful of the apps we use on the Net, because they could be yanked tomorrow. Always have a backup plan.

There is some good information on-tap today…including part 4 of the series on home networking…so let us get to it! -JRC

Google Reader Is Shutting Down; Here Are the Best Alternatives

Google announced today that it'll be closing Google Reader's doors on July 1st of this year, meaning you'll need to find a new way to get your news fix. Here's how to export all your feeds and put them into a new reader.

Google kicks ad-blocker apps off Play store

Advertising blocking apps Ad Blocker, AdBlock Plus, AdAway and AdFree were all taken off Google Play overnight after Google enforced a term in its developer agreement prohibiting developers from disrupting others' services.

Android to overtake iPad as top tablet platform this year

A growing variety of smaller and cheaper Android tablets from Google, Amazon and others will catch on this year and chip away at the dominance Apple established with the first iPad in 2010, according to research house IDC.

Fixing Windows 8: Advice for Users and for Microsoft

I like Windows 8, but it could be better. Here's how we get there today…and here’s how to make Windows 8 much better if you have no choice.

A hidden Patch Tuesday gem: A Windows 7 hotfix rollup

Even though Microsoft supposedly is done releasing service packs for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2, the company is still doing hotfix rollups. Surprise!

Home networking explained, Part 4: Wi-Fi vs. Internet

This edition explains the difference between Wi-Fi and (wireless) Internet and answers frequently asked questions on connectivity matters.

RedBox Instant launches movie streaming after testing

RedBox Instant is seeking to differentiate itself from Netflix and others by mixing streaming with its network of 35,000 kiosks nationwide that offer newly released DVDs.

Prizefight: Roku 3 vs. third-generation Apple TV (video)

Two of the best media-streaming devices, the Roku 3 and the third-generation Apple TV, renew their bitter rivalry. Complete with a video

Projectors vs. TVs: Giant-screen pros and cons

What you should know about big screen projectors for you living room...vs just buying a big hi-def TV.

Best Online Free File Sharing and Storage Tools: SkyDrive vs Google Drive vs iCloud vs Dropbox

You can store, share and modify your files and folder online on cloud using these free cloud tools. Microsoft SkyDrive, Google Drive, Apple iCloud and Dropbox are the best free online sharing and storage cloud tools available for you.

Improve Your PC Desktop with these Icons that You Didn’t Know You Had

I suspect that most PC users are unaware that there are well over a thousand different icons stored in various Windows system files.

Come on China…Knock it Off!!

The White House is on the warpath…this time its against China and their attempts to break into the computer systems of U.S. firms. That should scare the hell out the Chinese! Yea, right. There is no fist in that glove. Well, it makes for good PR and good reading. 

I tried to limit my stories about Microsoft and Windows in this edition, since I blasted them so hard last time. But I could not resist this one story…how Microsoft reminds us so much of the Republican Party…trying to expound on long dead issues while the world has moved on. It’s a good comparison.

Two more Microsoft boo-boos made headlines this week…the EU is fining them almost $800 million for failing to offer a browser ballot that is supposed to be in all new Windows operating system sold in Europe. It was their originally, but disappeared 18 months ago. Microsoft said it was their fault. Stupid mistake.

The other goof-up was Microsoft bought a company in Denmark that the government of that country says owes $1 billion dollars in back taxes. So Microsoft is on the hook for that. Due diligence anyone? So there is nearly $2 billion dollars of Microsoft money down the toilet. Amazing!

Well enough the boys from Redmond. Let’s take a look at the big stories that might be of interest to you. - JRC

White House Calls On China To Cease Cyberattacks On U.S. Firms

The White House called upon China to address three points: crack down on Chinese hackers; come to the table for talks on global standards; and recognize the severity of the problem.

Security will get worse before it gets better

One day we will get the safer Internet we deserve. The question is: How much more damage needs to occur before we that happens?

Patch Tuesday: Microsoft to fix four critical flaws, all versions of IE at risk again

Prepare your systems (and a strong pot of coffee): Patch Tuesday is on deck for another month. Microsoft will release patches for seven security vulnerabilities, four of them considered 'critical.'

Why Microsoft Is Like The GOP

Call me stupid, but with a lame duck board, the only solution might spring from shareholder dissatisfaction and rebellion. That is extreme but it might, in the end, offer the only chance for Microsoft to rebound.

Cloud haters: You too will be assimilated

It seems some of you find the cloud ... threatening. Well, I got news for you, Cloud Haters. The cloud is coming for you whether you like it or not. The cloud cannot be stopped. Your data and user experience will be assimilated.

Facebook's Revamped News Feed: What's New?

Facebook took the wraps off a new News Feed, which gives the social network a more contained, organized look while also providing the option to drill down on things like photos and games.

Google now redirects Picasa Web Albums to Google+ Photos

It's another nail in the coffin for Picasa Web Albums as its URL now brings users to their photo albums on Google+. But you can get back to Picasa very easily.

LibreOffice 4.0 is out - Is it Right for YOU?

Within the Suite you get Writer (MS Word Replacement), Calc (MS Excel Replacement), Impress (MS PowerPoint Replacement), Base (MS Access Replacement), Math (no MS equivalent) and Draw (MS Visio and Publisher Replacement)...all free.

Loads of Troubleshooting Help From Microsoft, All In One Place

If you're having a problem on your PC, you probably start by searching for the solution with Google. However, a better route might be to go straight to Microsoft's web site. The trouble, if course, is knowing where to start.

Free Computer and Internet Audiobooks and Courses Online

This is a listing of sites that legally offer free audiobooks within the Computers & Internet genre. There is also a listing here of Places For Free Computer & Internet eBooks Online.

Dear Microsoft, Get Real, Make Changes at the Top

Please realize that I have been a Microsoft Windows user (and DOS before that), long before I started this blog. I think it was the mid-80’s when I became a regular Microsoft customer. I’ve liked most of their products all the way through Windows 7 and Office 2010. Long time readers know I loved Windows 7 before it even hit the shelves. They put out some marvelous products for years and years (with a few misses along the way).

But lately, they have lost their way…some of their current products and plans for the future are a travesty. Just look at our first few stories and see what I mean. Nobody wants Windows 8, nobody wants Windows Surface RT, and few want Office 2013 or Windows Surface Pro.

Their prized security software, Windows Security Essentials is failing test after test at independent testing labs. Just today a friend called me with a computer problem. After hearing the symptoms, I knew something got into his machine. Two WSE scans yielded nothing. I had him uninstall WSE and install Avast anti-virus. It found 3 dangerous pieces of malware almost immediately.

This is just one example of product failure. Frankly, the Microsoft organization is a mess. Know one knows what anyone else is doing. Their only answer is to put out propaganda about how good their products are…and few are buying into it. You are what your sales and customers say you are!

I realize this is a bit of oversimplification.  Other smarter people have offered greater detail as to Microsoft’s recent failures. Even some of their strongest supporters in the tech press are shaking their heads.

But it comes down to this: it is time to fire Steve Ballmer and other Microsoft key executives for letting this happen. It is time to start bringing order back to the chaos that is Microsoft. If they started today it would probably take a few years for the ship to be righted. Things are that bad.

Microsoft needs to learn that we want operating systems, software and hardware that get things done, not crap that gets in our way. The Apple method is to offer simple tools that get the job done. Simplicity is an unknown commodity in Redmond. Dear Microsoft: WAKE UP!!

Thanks for letting me rant. You know the name of this blog is Rants and Raves. Now you know what a rant is. But there are some good things included here that I rave about.

For instance, I have included details of the new Roku 3 box. I’ve owned a Roku 2 for a couple of years now and it is the best product of its kind. I love mine, but the new one looks even better and I will probably get one shortly.

I’ve also included some important articles on security issues. Make sure you look at them. And of course, there are some app recommendations. So, once again, thanks for letting me beat up on Microsoft…but let’s get on with the business at hand. – JRC.

Microsoft Cuts Windows, Office Prices For Manufacturers - Is Windows 8 In Trouble?

Unable to light a fire under Windows 8, Microsoft is holding a fire sale instead. Microsoft is offering significant additional discounts on both Windows 8 and Microsoft Office to PC makers that will include the software in small laptops that include touchscreens.

Samsung confirms it will stop selling its Windows RT tablet in Germany

The sales of the tablet will also be halted in other European countries. A halt of Samsung Windows RT tablets does not bode well for Microsoft and is another sign of the lackluster uptake of RT devices that market observers have already noted.

Surviving your first hour with Office 2013

If you’ve looked into Office 2013′s “improvements,” they might have struck you — as they did me — as largely gratuitous, cumbersome, and designed more to add to Microsoft’s coffers than to improve Office productivity. Fortunately, there are ways rid yourself of Office 2013′s worst changes — if you know the tricks.

Microsoft restores transfer rights for retail Office 2013 copies

As part of its shift to a subscription model, Microsoft introduced a controversial "no transfer" restriction with Office 2013. Now, after an intense outcry from customers, the company has reversed course and agreed to allow users to transfer retail Office licenses between devices.

The New Roku 3

The new streaming-video box clearly has its sights set on the Apple TV ($99), addressing many of Roku's earlier shortcomings with an overhauled user interface, refreshed design, and faster processor, while maintaining its unmatched content selection of more than 700 channels.

You Got Hacked! What Now?

Somebody has taken over your email or maybe your social media accounts. All your friends are mad at you. How can you recover—and keep the problem from happening again?

Ghostery for Firefox Freeware

Ghostery is a browser add-on for Firefox that enables you to see what kind of tracking techniques are used by the current website, including tags, web bugs, pixels and beacons. Also available for IE and Chrome browsers.

Are you leaking too much of your real life online?

Thieves and predators constantly search Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for telltale information. Think before you post!

Test Your PC's Security From The Outside

If you haven't tried out the Shields Up service, from Gibson Research's web site, give it a try. It does just that. It attempts to "hack" your PC, by remotely connecting to your computer over a number of internet communication channels (known as ports).

Must-have apps for photography nuts

Want to get more out of your photography? Your tablet can be a valuable tool in the pursuit of picture perfection. A variety of apps are now available that can expand your camera's featuresy, making it easier to shoot and edit.

Get Organized: Planning for Your Next Phone Upgrade

Don't get rushed into buying a new phone, or you could lose a lot of money and wind up terribly dissatisfied. These tips will help you prepare a plan for your next phone upgrade.

SyncFolders Freeware download and reviews

SyncFolders enables you to synchronize or backup your files and folders. You can create multiple sync profiles (rules) for different folder locations, each with it's own synchronization or backup settings.

A Plethora of Great Information

I just love that word, “Plethora.” If I wrote this blog in November, I would us “cornucopia” in deference to Thanksgiving. Descriptive words are just fun to find and use.

Anyway to the business at hand: I went to a fascinating lecture yesterday given by Ken Segall…the man who put the “i” in Apple products. For many years he worked as the creative director for Steve Jobs at Apple and Next. He wrote a book titled “Insanely Simple,” which describes Apple’s methodology to a tee. Why are they successful? Simple…they keep it simple.

That was the motto of Apple under Steve Jobs. And it works. His products are simple in design and almost anyone can use them. Here is another example of simple: Dell has 42 different laptops for sale…HP has 49…Apple has 6. That’s it…and Apple outsells them both…combined. 

Segal worked for Dell and IBM and others. According to him, they are the opposite of simple. They are mired in complexity. Jobs ran his company as a startup…they had no committees…just the best people he could find for the job. Remember when Jobs took over Apple, they were near bankruptcy. Now they are one of the most valuable companies in the world. Simplicity, if done right, seems to work. But it is not easy. Keeping products simple is complex job for product developers.

As a side note, if you want to see a short, but hilarious video that compares Steve Jobs to Steve Ballmer, head over to YouTube and enjoy. It’s worth it.

This edition has some good information in it: Part 3 of the series on home networking; a good look at Microsoft’s free Office on line; the 100 best iPad apps; and Evernote’s honest and correct response to being hacked. So let’s get on with it! - JRC

Online note service Evernote latest firm to get hacked

Company behind application used by about 50 million people says some user data was accessed and it requires all users to reset passwords.

White House: It's time to legalize cell phone unlocking

White House's stance is that "neither criminal law nor technological locks should prevent consumers from switching carriers when they are no longer bound by a service agreement or other obligation."

The 8 mobile OS upstarts that want to topple iOS and Android

Ubuntu, Firefox, Tizen, Sailfish, WebOS, Nokia Series 40, BlackBerry, and Windows Phone want a piece of the pie, but it won't be a cakewalk

47% Of Potential Tablet Buyers Want An iPad

This survey should be very worrisome to Windows 8 tablet makers as only 1% of those surveyed wanted to purchase a Surface or Surface Pro. Dell and Acer, two popular Windows 8 tablet makers, also scored pretty low on the list.

Are Microsoft's free Office Web Apps good enough for you?

When you think of Microsoft Office, you probably think of retail software that commands a premium price. Surprise! The latest iteration of the Office Web Apps are free and surprisingly powerful. How do they stack up against Google's offerings?

Home networking explained, Part 3: Taking control of your wires

This edition of home networking explains how to get down and dirty with network cabling.

Best Free Instant Messaging Client

These applications not only allow you to connect to multiple IM networks, but they are also advertisement free, more secure, and have features that allow you to easily manage your various IM accounts.

Canon vs. Nikon: Choosing the Right Camera System

Canon and Nikon are the two largest players in the digital SLR market. We break down the differences between the two systems to help you choose the right camera and lens combination.

How to Sync Your Browser Data in Any Browser and Access it Anywhere

Browsers were once self-contained pieces of software that ran on a single computer, but most popular browsers now offer integrated synchronization services and mobile apps.

The 100 Best iPad Apps

The App Store contains some truly magnificent apps and some... that are not. So the vital question is this: How do you find the gems?

XP Approaches Death While The World Waits for Blue

Windows XP will be killed off completely in about a year. That means no upgrades, no support, no security fixes…no nothing. This is fair warning for you XP fans that it is time to move on. You have another year on life support, so make your plans early. My advice is go to Windows 7…stay away from 8.

And what is “Blue”, you ask? No one outside of Redmond knows. Is it Windows 9 or a Service Pack for Windows 8? Or is it much, much more? That is the current speculation. It is an upgrade for many Microsoft products, not just Windows, according to some inside sources. But Microsoft won’t even acknowledge there is something called Blue. Trust me, there is…and while I hate reporting rumors, I just wanted you to know it is out there.

Plenty of other good things in this edition and lots of good information. I suggest you pay special attention to the article on Sandboxie and the 2nd part of the series on home networking. You will not be sorry. So, without any further ado, let’s get it on! - JRC

Researchers discover new global cyber-espionage campaign

Security researchers have identified an ongoing cyber-espionage campaign that compromised 59 computers belonging to government organizations, research institutes, think tanks, and private companies from 23 countries in the past 10 days.

It's time to loosen your cold, dead grip on Windows XP

Nothing suggests that Microsoft will push back its April 8, 2014, endgame for XP. If you haven't already done so, the time to migrate is nigh.

Windows 'Blue' rumors fly fast and furious

Microsoft is saying zip about the rumored next version of Windows. Here's what we know -- or think we know -- about Windows 'Blue'

Security alert: Bogus tech-support phone calls

“Hello. This is Microsoft Tech Support. Your PC has notified us that it has an infection.” The call is a scam — an extremely prevalent one. Here’s how it works and what you need to know to stay out of the trap.

An Introduction and a Quick Guide to Sandboxie

Sandboxie is a unique security product based on the principle of sandboxing. In simple computer terms, a sandbox is an isolated environment for running programs. Sandboxie makes surfing the web really secure and safe: you can always be relaxed and be sure that no malware can infect your system

Home networking explained, Part 2: Optimizing your Wi-Fi network

A second in a series of articles explaining home networking. Here is how to have the best Wi-Fi coverage at home and avoid "dead zones."

Panacea or pariah: Five PC cleanup utilities put to the test

Plenty of those utilities look like scams-search for "improve system performance" and you'll see what I mean. Interspersed among the few useful posts out there are links to a smorgasbord of PC clean-up and optimization utilities; some are worth downloading, but most are not.

Find Information on How To Delete Accounts on Various Sites Quickly and Easily

Sometimes, we feel the need to delete an account on a site. It can be for many reasons...and it is not always easy. Here are two sites that provide information for deleting accounts on popular sites.

Yahoo launches new home page with 'endless' news feed

The new page puts news at the center of the home page's design and allows for full customization based on interests

iTunes U crosses 1 billion downloads—have you used it?

2,500 public courses are available...on practically every topic imaginable. I use it to view lectures I missed at UofA. It is a great tool and most everything is free.

The 100 Best Android Apps of 2013

While our tastes and yours may be different, we think our list is a good starting point. We do our best to keep it fresh and interesting enough that even the most experienced Android user will be able to find something worthwhile.

Lots of Microsoft News + Updates on Mobile World Congress

We are busy, busy busy. First, trying to keep up with all the news coming out of Barcelona where the Mobile World Congress is underway. This is the #1 show for smartphones, tablets, and all mobile devices. We are seeing a plethora of new announcement from all the major (and minor) firms.  A few new phones are pretty much the size of tablets while new Android tablets abound. So, be sure and check out our first story.

Microsoft has also been busy this week. While they are considered a minor player in Barcelona, here at home they are keeping the newswires hot. We have all the relevant updates here on the end of Hotmail (and what you can do about it), the rise of Outlook.com, and the arrival of Internet Explorer 10 for Windows 7 users. Plus Google Glass and Firefox bring us there latest updates.

Oh, and if that is not enough, I’ve included 180 quality pieces of free software for you to pick and choose through. As I said, busy, busy, busy. So let’s get to it. -JRC

Roundup of the Mobile World Congress 2013

It's the biggest show in the world dedicated to mobile devices. Here is a roundup of the new devices being shown at the show. Lots of interesting information to sink your teeth into.

Confirmed: Google Glass arrives in 2013, and under $1,500

Google's augmented reality glasses are ahead of schedule. Are you ready to get yourself fitted for a set?

Firefox to follow Safari, start blocking cookies from third-party advertisers

Firefox already supports the Do Not Track header, which has the effect of asking advertisers not to track your browsing around the web, but this patch goes a step further, adding a default setting that refuses unwelcome third-party cookies altogether.

Firefox 19 Arrives, Finally Adds a Built-in PDF Viewer

Firefox 19 also adds startup performance improvements, new features for developers, and the usual bug fixes.

Now Available: Internet Explorer 10 for Windows 7

Microsoft announced today that Internet Explorer 10 for Windows 7 is immediately available to download in 95 languages. The firm will begin auto-updating customers to IE 10 in the weeks ahead, with those who downloaded the release preview getting the update first.

Office Web Apps on SkyDrive updated with new features

Why buy Office 13 when you can use Office Web Apps for free. Microsoft detailed the latest updates to the Office Web Apps, now available on SkyDrive (and Outlook.com). Here are the details:

Missing The Evil Empire: Bring Back Microsoft

Maybe it was the DOJ, maybe it was Gates’ retirement, but something is missing at Microsoft. There was an evil genius quality that the company used to exude that this guy just can’t seem to match. Ballmer is all bluster, while Gates was silent until he was already twisting the knife.

Microsoft's Hotmail phase-out: What's a user to do?

Microsoft is moving all of its Hotmail users to Outlook.com by this summer. Here's what the hundreds of millions still using Hotmail need to know about the transition.

Microsoft Outlook.com e-mail Review

Outlook.com delivers unlimited storage, excellent inbox organizational tools, and complete SkyDrive integration. It doesn't serve personalized ads, and it's all wrapped up in a simple, easy-to-use interface. It is a great e-mail program!

The Best Free Web Apps of 2013

Some of the best applications you'll never have to buy are already available instantly for you to use—in your desktop browser. Here are PC Magazines 180 favorites.