Hip Hop Apple. Yuck!!!

As you may or may not have heard, Apple is spending $3 billion dollars to buy a hip hop music company called Beats. Why? Damned if I know. The guess is they want to improve their iTunes radio app and perhaps appeal to a younger crowd.

I don’t understand it as both iTunes Radio and Beats are not very successful in the marketplace…with Beats being even less successful than iTunes. Beats also makes a popular headphone using sports stars and other so-called celebrities to market them. Smart. Watch some of the basketball players walking into arena and you will see them wearing Beats headphones. They may be great for hip hop but for most other styles of music, they are crap. They load up the bass end without a whole lot of attention paid to mid range and high end sounds. You would be much better served to buy Bose or some other brand that pays attention to quality.

And the cherry on top of this fiasco is Apple is bringing the two top execs of Beats into the company, including their foul-mouthed President. That may be OK for a company that promotes the chaotic, ugly music that is Hip Hop and Rap, but not for one of the classiest tech companies in the world. One of the top Apple execs said today that Steve Jobs would be proud of this acquisition. Sorry…I believe Steve Jobs is rolling over in his grave.

Now, I realize that I am an old fart that may not “appreciate” today’s music (my parents never liked my music when I was a kid) and time is moving past me, but I still believe in the power of beauty and good taste. And while some pundits think this is a good move for Apple, so many others do not. They point out that Apple would have been better off buying Spotify or some other Internet music company.

For Apple, $3 billion is a drop in the bucket. They will not lose on the deal. The Beats folks say they are doing this to “Save Music.” Total BS! They did it for the money. Music doesn’t need saving…at least good music doesn’t. Mozart, Beethoven, Frank Sinatra, Dave Brubeck, Chuck Berry, Elvis` and many others are still going strong and their music will still be around when you and I are gone. Can you say the same about Hip Hop?

So you read our two top stories here and decide for yourself. If you read on past them, I think you will find some good info here that may help you out with your tech products. –JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Confirmed: Apple acquires Beats for $2.6B and $400M in stock

After three weeks of rumors, it's finally official. Apple has acquired Hip Hop subscription streaming music service Beats Music, and headphone maker Beats Electronics.

Let's spend Apple's money: 10 acquisitions that make more sense than Beats

Since Apple is opening the wallet for acquisitions let's spend some money. Hello Nuance, Shazam, ARM and a bunch of others. All of those proposed deals could deliver more value than the $3 billion dropped on Beats.

Apple is in Reset Mode - Walt Mossberg On Apple

It’s not necessarily a bad thing. But it was forced on them by somebody dying who was an extraordinary figure, so they’re going through a reset.

Opinion: Rebooting Windows for a new era of computing

The next couple of years will be crucial for Microsoft, but I believe that the company has what it takes to surprise us, and that it still has a good chance of transforming itself into a company that can rise to the challenges and changes thrown up by the post PC era.

Microsoft announces Windows 8.1 with Bing for low-cost devices

The new edition of Windows appears to be the same as the standard version of Windows 8.1 (complete with this spring's Windows 8.1 Update), but with one major distinction: Windows 8.1 with Bing ships with Microsoft's search engine set as the default in Internet Explorer. And it is free for manufacturers of low cost devices.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Windows maintenance, done dirt-cheap

To read the advertising by Windows maintenance suite vendors, you'd think Microsoft sells technologically challenged operating systems that will function properly only with the grace of third-party intervention. In truth, the utilities that Microsoft has included with all its operating systems since XP will do the job.

How to automate basic PC maintenance tasks

You can automate many basic PC maintenance tasks, such as removing temporary files, fixing drive errors, keeping drivers up-to-date, and backing up files.

How to get the Start menu back in Windows 8

If you have recently purchased a Windows 8 computer and hate the layout, here is a roundup of the latest free and paid apps that will get a Start Menu back on to your computer. Its been updated with several new apps since we last wrote about this subject.

10 Wrong Ways To Set Up Your Wireless Network

When I turn on a wireless device in my apartment, I immediately find over twenty five wireless networks, all with strong signals. This is an example of how prevalent wireless Internet has become, but some of the networks I can find are not set up properly, making them insecure or unreliable.

8 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do With Google Drive

The multifaceted feature that allows you to create documents, photos, spreadsheets, drawings and more has boundless abilities. However, with Drive's constant updates and added hacks, we're only scratching the surface of what it can really do.

 

Mobile Computing

6 Reasons Why You Can’t Move Your Cell Phone To Any Carrier You Want

Unlike with Wi-Fi, there are many different competing cellular network standards — both around the world and within countries. Cellular carriers also like locking you to their specific network and making it difficult to move. And that is just for starters.

10 indispensable iPhone apps for Windows users

If you’re one of the two out of three Windows users who also own Apple products, you may not realize you can use the traditionally adversarial platforms to get a productivity edge.

Applications to Secure your Android Smartphone

Android is a very flexible OS, and all these challenges can be well dealt with if you choose the right security app from Google Play. Yet there is an abundance of suitable options, so we decided to help you by making a short list of the best security applications.

Sunrise for Android makes Google Calendar look ugly

Following a stint as an iOS exclusive, calendar app Sunrise launched today on the Play Store and on the web. It was well worth the wait. (Includes a video)

3 simple ways to clear up "other" memory on your iOS device

"Other" memory, the nonspecific space hog that greedily takes up memory on your phone without adding value to your life. Is there a simple way to reclaim those precious GB back from your phone without restoring it? Yes dear reader there is. Here's how

It’s the Tech News Post Holiday Slump

I hope you had an enjoyable 3 day holiday. Mine was fine although with our desert heat this time of year, I was inside much of the time. Still I got to see the Monte Carlo Grand Prix, the Indianapolis 500, the Stanley Cup playoffs, and, of course, some baseball. 

For the next few months, my regimen includes getting out for some exercise around sunrise, then sitting outside and reading at the pool until it gets too hot…then inside for the rest of the day. I have plenty of projects I planned for this time of year, so I will be busy. It got up to 103 today and about the same for tomorrow.

In about a month or so, the monsoon season will begin with lots of rain and amazing thunderstorms…but of course then the humidity goes up to Florida levels with no letup for the heat. Thank God I have a month-long get-a-way planned during the height of the monsoon season.

Seems like the tech news cycle is always slow after a 3 day holiday. And so it is today.  Still, I managed to coble a newsletter that has some good information in it. I hope you find something of interest in this edition. Thanks for reading. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Nadella's Bid To Fix Microsoft: What Ballmer Didn't Dare

How could anyone who tolerated Microsoft’s flaws for the past decade suddenly see the company with fresh eyes and declare: “Enough already!”

Microsoft challenged an FBI National Security Letter, and won

Documents unsealed by a federal court in Seattle reveal Microsoft successfully litigated an information request from the FBI on one of its enterprise customers.

Encrypted Web Traffic More Than Doubles After NSA Revelations

We’re still long way from ubiquitous encryption, but according to new research conducted by network equipment company Sandvine, we’re at least making progress.

Why the iPad is popular and Windows 'tablets' are not

When a tablet tries to be a laptop, people buy a laptop instead -- or a real tablet

Facebook tightens the privacy of your updates

The default option for your first Facebook update will be to share with friends and not with the public at large.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

5 Best Firefox Themes

Firefox allows you to customize its background look with more than 300,000 themes. Plus, with complete themes, a more in-depth form of theme, you can separately personalize the address bar, buttons, menu, tabs and window frame.

The Best Photo Viewer I've Seen In Years. And It's Free

If you keep your photos on your computer as digital images, rather than storing them as prints in albums, then you'll need a decent program for viewing them. Here is a brilliant program called Diffractor, which is pretty close to the ideal image viewer.

Go incognito when launching Chrome on Windows

Need to keep your browsing habits private or just trying to avoid cookies? Read on to find out how you can launch Chrome into incognito automatically.

Everything You Need To Know About Ethernet Cables

What’s all this about Cat 6 or crossover cables? Here’s everything you need to know about Ethernet cabling

Get Organized: Streamline Your News Feeds

Keeping up with the news takes very little time and effort, if you have the right tools and spend a few minutes setting them up to cater to your needs.

 

Mobile Computing

The 12 best weather apps for iPhone

For iPhone users there exists a wealth of weather information right at your fingertips in Apple’s own App Store. However, sifting through the many available choices leaves even the most adept app users feeling gloomy. Here is some help. PS: Many of these are available for Android also.

The only 6 iPhone apps you need to take stunning, professional-quality photos

The iPhone's camera is already pretty strong for a smartphone camera but what if you need it to do more? Here you'll find a list of Dan Rubin's six favorites along with descriptions of what they do as well as pricing information.

The Top 5 iPad Science Apps

A multitude of educational apps for Apple's iPad are helping to make science understandable, visual—and even fun. Here are our favorites. PS: Not on this list is one of my favorites...Exoplantets. It keeps track of all the discovered planets in our galaxy.

The 5 Best Android launcher applications

Chances are, you look at the home screen of your phone more than almost any other screen on your device. It should look good, but still be functional. Here are a few different launchers that provide the best experience for everyday use.

Six clicks: Great tips and tricks for Android

Android is probably the most versatile mobile platform ever produced. It is so broad there are layers of features buried deep under the facade. These tips will help peel back those layers.

eBay Hacked…You Need to Change your Password

Here we go again. Same story, different vendor. Will it never end? Probably not. What I wonder about is why eBay waited so long to tell us. That is not being responsible to your customers. I haven’t used eBay in many years, but I still changed my passwords today.

In other news, the reviews are mostly good for the Windows Surface Tablet 3. Of course its rather large price tag means only the rich and successful enterprises will be able to buy one. But I like the concept. I heard a number of complaints about the “lapability” of the tablet…Microsoft invented this word to show how one can work so easily with the Surface 3 on their lap. But most people who have tried it don’t agree. But how many people really use it on their lap?

Microsoft is bound and determined to stay with the dual laptop/tablet concept for as long as it takes, so it will be interesting to see if they succeed.

There is more news and tips below so why don’t you get started. Thanks. –JRC

 

News and Opinions

eBay Hacked, Change Your Passwords Now

If you have an eBay account, it's time to change your password. The company released a statement today saying their internal and customer databases were compromised earlier this year, and starting today they'll prompt everyone to change their passwords.

What Microsoft doesn't get about the tablet revolution

"Microsoft's vision is wrong. Tablets aren't PCs. Indeed, iPads and Android-based tablets have succeeded precisely because they ditched the complexity of traditional PCs.

Is Android broken, and if so, will Google fix it?

It is broken but Google isn't likely to "fix" Android anytime soon, because despite the fragmentation problem, the company is getting what it wants: massive amounts of user data.

DuckDuckGo, the search engine that doesn't track you, makes terrific overhaul official

The new tools include a variety of requested changes, including auto-suggest and local search, that make the site function more like Google, but with DuckDuckGo’s privacy promises still in place.

Comcast and Time Warner rank dead last in satisfaction as merger looms

Comcast and Time Warner Cable could become America's most loathed TV and Internet provider if they are allowed to merge, as customer satisfaction with both companies has plummeted.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

File-sharing strategies for Windows 7 and 8

These days, it’s possible to have XP, Windows 7, and Windows 8 all running in the same household or small business. And though Windows 7 and 8 have similar tools for sharing files over a network, there are differences that might leave you puzzled.

How Spammers Spoof Your Email Address (and How to Protect Yourself)

If you've seen an email that looks like it's from a friend, it doesn't mean they've been hacked. Spammers spoof those addresses all the time, and it's not hard to do. Here's how they do it, and how you can protect yourself.

Chrome's 'OK Google' voice search rolls out to all

Google has rolled out a Chrome update that integrates the company's now iconic "OK Google" command directly into the latest version of its browser and in Chrome OS.

8 Backup Tools Explained for Windows 7 and 8

Backups on Windows can be confusing. Whether you’re using Windows 7 or 8, you have quite a few integrated backup tools to think about. Windows 8 made quite a few changes, too.

Use reverse image search to avoid Craigslist scams

Does that apartment or vacation rental seem too good to be true? Do some snooping with Google’s reverse image search tool to find out.

 

Mobile Computing

Google releases major updates to Chrome and Google+ for Android Apps

Google+ for Android has added a slew of new features including Auto Awesome Stories, which allows users to combine photos, videos and the places you visit into a travelogue.

Popular Paid iPhone And iPad Apps Gone Free

As ever, that these deals will only run for a limited time, so if you want to save yourself a boatload of cash on some really great apps, then be sure to check the round-up below.

Best smartphone battery life: more important than screen size

People buy smartphones for all different reasons but it seems that having a strong battery has become the top reason for many buyers.

Fotos for iOS does some things Apple left out

Fotos is a free iPhone app that catalogs your camera roll and albums and lets you add names to your images, making them easily searchable.

Accompli to Dropbox - 50 Best Free iPhone Apps for 2014

If 'free' is the magic word when you're shopping for iPhone apps, this essential set of 50 should serve you well.

The Tablet that May Replace Your Laptop…For a Price!

Microsoft threw us a curveball today…but one that might be a home run for them. For weeks, we heard through the tech grapevine that today Microsoft would introduce the Surface Mini…an 8” Surface tablet. Not only did that not happen, but there was never even a mention of it.

What we got today was the new Surface Pro 3 tablet…a beautiful 12” tablet that Microsoft is pushing as a replacement for your laptop. And it looks like it could very well do that. Think about it…people with tablets (like me) also probably own a laptop (like me). Why? Because laptops (and desktops) are for getting things done. Tablets are mostly consumption devices. True, I have used my iPad for writing and a few other productive tasks, but mostly I use my laptop and desktop for real work.

This new device can easily be used for both. Its two drawbacks are lack of applications and Windows 8.1. Now, I will be the first to admit that Windows has gotten much better lately, and with another update coming soon and Windows 9 next year, it will be much more useful. And I am beginning to see more apps for Windows in the Windows Store.  So those two drawbacks are rapidly diminishing.

But there is one big drawback…price. Prices begin at $800 and go up to $1,950 with three stops in between…plus $130 for the keyboard and $50 for the pen. That is not chump change. My laptop and my iPad combined are less than what a similar Surface Pro 3 is priced. So I won’t be buying one soon.

And while I think the iPad is better than the Surface, Microsoft is catching up in quality…and, believe it or not, Apple is cheaper. I never thought I would hear myself saying that.

There was a lot of other news in the last few day…AT&T bought DIRECTV, and the FCC adopted the Internet Fast Lane proposal that may kill Net Neutrality. But it is not official yet. There will be waves of protest over this one.

PS: If you use an iPhone, be sure and read #1 story in the Mobile Computing section below. There are 10 things there that I didn’t know my iPhone could do…like read your e-mail to you and tell you what airplanes are flying overhead. Well worth a read.

But why don’t you get started on this feature-packed edition. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Surface Pro 3 Preview

Microsoft's bigger and thinner Surface Pro tablet is indeed called Surface Pro 3, and is positioned as a device that can replace both a tablet and a laptop. It certainly appears to be the first Surface Pro device that can accomplish this long-stated goal.

Hands on with the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 (pictures)

Microsoft's latest tablet is available for pre-order May 20, starting at $799. Here's an initial hands-on, in photo form.

AT&T to acquire DirecTV for $48.5B in blockbuster deal

Acquisition creates a powerhouse for services in the home, allowing AT&T to pair its own wireless network with DirecTV's satellite TV service.

The FCC Approves Internet Fast Lane

The FCC voted 3-2 to approve creation of an "internet fast lane." This will have massive ramifications for how all internet companies operate in the future.

These companies spend the most money to kill net neutrality

For the companies involved—especially the telecom companies that are eager to be allowed to charge more for a “fast lane” of Internet service—lobbying has been at a fevered pitch for almost a decade.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

10 ways to speed up Windows 7

You don't have to live with a Windows 7 machine that's becoming unbearably slow. Here are 10 basic steps that will optimize system performance.

It's spring! Clean out your PC's junk with these free programs

It's finally May. The winter frost is thawing across the U.S., and thoughts are turning to baseball, the Memorial Day weekend, and cleaning out your PC. But along with wiping down those windows, clearing out your eaves, and fertilizing the lawn, spring is as good a time as any to make sure your PC is nice and tidy.

Windows Store App Gets a Major Update

Finally, the Store app doesn't look ridiculous.

Getting started with read-it-later apps Instapaper and Pocket

I spend a lot of time reading news. There's just one problem: I never have enough time to take it all in when I find it. That's why I rely heavily on read-it-later apps to save all the interesting articles I find, stashing them away for future

How to Use Bookmarklets on Any Device

Web browser bookmarklets allow you to perform actions on the current page with just a click or tap. They’re a lightweight alternative to browser extensions. They even work on mobile browsers that don’t support traditional extensions.

 

Mobile Computing

10 Amazing New Things Your iPhone Can Do

Apple’s new iPhone features some incredible technology that you may be completely unaware of! Here are the top 10 amazing things you can do with your phone that you may have never known about.

Google Now will remind you to pay your bills

Remembering to pay your bills sounds easy, but as anyone who has paid a late fee can attest, it's easy to forget. That's why the new Google Now cards which remind you when bills are due are a great idea.

Secure public WiFi with avast! SecureLine for iOS Review

While constant Internet connectivity can be useful, it does create many privacy and security issues whose existence remains a mystery for the majority of mobile users. A VPN is the only answer. Here we will take a look at Avast! SecureLine for iOS, a new service/app that's also available on Windows and Android.

How to Master Voice Control on Android: Beyond Google Now

In this article, I’ll discuss in depth the only third-party app I’ve found for Android that actually works alongside Google Now instead of trying to replace it, and complements its features with many of its own.

10 of the Best Android Browser Apps

While you may well be one of those unfussy types who would get by just as well on Chrome or Firefox as you would on Dolphin or Opera, equally you may have many different needs from a mobile browser.

Corporate Greed vs. Consumers: Guess Who Loses?

Our first three stories today are all about greed and tapping consumer wallets for more money…making us pay more than we should…or figuring out new ways to screw us…or sneaking nasty software on our computers because it makes companies more money.

In story #1, cell phone companies continue to overcharge us for services that cost them less. In story #2, our old friend Comcast is back up to its old tricks giving us less for more. My blood starts to boil when I read this stories.

I’m aware that corporations are in the business to maximize profits, but when they have virtual monopolies on products and services, the government needs to lay down some strict guidelines to protect the people it serves.

But, of course that won’t happen. The Congress is in the pockets of all these companies. For example, it was the government that gave cable companies the monopolies in the first place. 

By having a monopoly, a cable company doesn’t have to spend any money on infrastructure which explains why our Internet services are so far behind other countries and why Comcast feels completely free to put data caps on our Internet use so they can rake in more profits for their bad service. They continue to be voted the worst company in America in the annual Consumerist Poll.

OK, it is time for me to cool off and for you start reading. Oh, one more thing…last time I published a story about so many users being dissatisfied with the new Firefox. In this edition, to counterbalance that story, I have a rave review on the new Firefox done by PC World. Go figure. You decide. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Why Your Cell-Phone Bill Should Be Going Down—But Isn't

Consumers aren’t reaping the benefits of new wireless technologies.

Comcast may roll out data caps for all customers within five years

So much for Comcast's proposed merger with Time Warner Cable being good for your internet service.

Why One Company Stopped Recommending Software Downloads

Windows software downloads are a mess. Many programs try to drag adware and other malicious junk onto your computer. Even safe programs we test sometimes turn to the dark side and start bundling junk later.

Adobe Patches Acrobat, Reader, Flash and Illustrator

Updates to Acrobat, Reader, Flash Player and Illustrator are for critical vulnerabilities and will be available today.

Google Glass Now Selling To the U.S. Masses

Want to be an Explorer? Well, if you do, Google wants you, too. That's right, after a 24-hour sale last month, the wearable technology maker is once again opening up Google Glass to the masses. Got a spare $1,500 sitting around?

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Windows XP die-hards can slash attack risk by dumping IE

Microsoft's own patch stats support advice that XP users switch to a non-Microsoft browser, halving the number of vulnerabilities to the OS

What are the Benefits of Chrome Apps that Duplicate a Website?

There are quite a few web apps for Chrome that seem to be nothing more than ‘prettified’ shortcuts to our favorite websites, but is that all they are, or is there more to them? Today’s SuperUser Q&A post has the answers

8 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do With Google Drive

The multifaceted feature that allows you to create documents, photos, spreadsheets, drawings and more has boundless abilities. However, with Drive's constant updates and added hacks, we're only scratching the surface of what it can really do.

Firefox 29 review: Stalwart browser gets a magnificent makeover

The latest version of Firefox sports a visual makeover and design, that in our opinion, vaults it to the top in both appearance and efficiency.

Best Free Disk Space Analyzer

One way to find out which files are hogging disk space when your hard drive fills up is to use a specialist utility that displays your disk space usage. There are a number of excellent free utilities that differ mainly in the way the disk space usage is portrayed.

 

Mobile Computing

iCloud vs. iTunes backups: The crucial differences that affect your data

These two iOS backup methods were not created equal, and if you don’t choose carefully you could be risking significant data loss. To ensure your iPhone or iPad data is fully protected, here’s a look at what each option backs up and when to use it.

Use Instant Rice When Reviving a Wet Phone, Not Uncooked Rice

It's become common knowledge that you can save a wet cellphone by putting it in a sealed container of rice. However, according to an experiment by the folks at Gazelle, regular dry rice isn't very effective—instant rice is much better.

Malware authors target Android phones

Researchers report the number of malicious apps available on the Google Play store continues to grow. Your best defense is a security app, a cautious approach to downloads, and a close eye on your bank and credit card statements.

Cortana vs. Google Now vs. Siri: Which Voice Assistant Wins?

Can Windows Phone's Cortana compete with Android's Google Now and Apple's Siri as your mobile virtual assistant?

iOS 7: the ultimate Notes app guide

The Notes app is a stock application for the iPhone that allows you to jot down quick notes on a whim. It’s a fast running app with low overhead that’s perfect for saving a random note or thought

Oh Boy! It’s Patch Tuesday!!! Break Out the Champagne!

This is the once-a-month Microsoft update day when they send out fixes for their various products…unless of course it’s an emergency fix for a severe problem like we had a couple of weeks ago. Today’s fix is a little different than past fixes…there are no updates for Windows XP. We have been warning you that this day was coming. What’s worse is that bad guys can use fixes to look for vulnerabilities in XP and take advantage of them (see Story #2). XP now sits out there all alone…undefended and vulnerable to attacks.

I must correct some misinformation I passed along last time: I reported that the next Apple event in June will likely see the introduction of new iPhones. That was a mistake. We probably won’t any new Apple Smartphones until August or September. My apologies. 

More than likely the June event will talk about an upgraded OS-X operating system for Apple computers. There are rumors that Apple will also introduce iOS8 for its phones and tablets and possibly some other hardware. But no new phones or tablets. But Apple is so secretive that all we can report are rumors from credible sources.

OK, that is all for me in this edition. From here on in, you are on your own…but I believe I have some special nuggets of information here that might serve you well. –JRC

 

News and Opinions

Microsoft patches Office, SharePoint and Windows, leaves XP behind

Microsoft issued eight security updates today addressing a total of 14 vulnerabilities in Windows, Office and SharePoint Server. Three are already being exploited in the wild.

Hackers look to Microsoft patches for clues to XP vulnerabilities

At least one of today's updates looks like an excellent candidate to hackers as they sniff for bugs in the now-retired Windows XP.

Users Say Firefox 29 Not So Great

Firefox 29 users are not at all happy with the updated browser they say Mozilla has forced on them. What Firefox users want is a robust browser with numerous customization features, but that is not what they feel Mozilla's Firefox 29 browser is providing.

Microsoft Extends Windows 8.1 Update 1 Install Deadline by 30 Days

You may recall that Microsoft had previously made the recently released Update 1 for Windows 8.1 a requirement for receiving future security updates. Because Update 1 has not rolled out as quickly as expected, however, Microsoft has now extended this deadline another 30 days.

Apple and the cloud: A magnificent missed opportunity

More than three years ago, in his last year as Apple's CEO, Steve Jobs laid out a vision for Apple to move aggressively into cloud services. What went wrong?

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Create Reminders On Your Desktop. No Software Required

When you think about it for more than 20 seconds, you realize that Windows has had the ability to put reminders on your desktop built into the operating system ever since it allowed support for long file names.

26 Google Drive Tips You Can't Afford to Miss

Google's online office suite of tools has done nothing but grow. Now under the umbrella of Google Drive (formerly Google Docs), you'll find a file management and storage service as well as the various apps-which still get collectively called Google Docs, even by Google.

How to Use Voice Search and Google Now in Chrome on Your Desktop

Chrome is gradually becoming more of a platform, and some of the best features of Android are making their way to Windows. With voice search and Google Now support, Google beat Microsoft’s own Cortana service to Windows.

Some Powerful Chrome Extensions 2013

There are some new awesome chrome plugins released in 2013 which every chrome user should try. These plug-ins can enhance efficiency and usability of chrome.

Outlook.com updated with improved mail filtering and in-line replies

Alongside the rules and UI changes, Microsoft is also adding an undo button that works just like its Word or Excel apps.

 

Mobile Computing

How to disable Android bloatware without rooting your phone

There are only a scant few things in our digital lives worse than the extraneous apps that come bundled with new Android devices. Carriers and manufacturers install the bulk of this bloatware, and make it all but impossible to remove the apps from your devices. But here is how to do it.

Microsoft Office for iPad bags 27M downloads in short order

Microsoft's Julia White says Office for iPad apps have been downloaded 27 million times to date. That's more than double the number announced last month.

Five Android apps that prolong your smartphone's battery life

This collection of apps will not only extend the life of your handset, but could also improve its overall performance.

How to make Google Now your best travel buddy

Google's read-your-mind predictive service, Google Now, can be an incredible tool for managing travel details by serving up the right itinerary information just when you need it.

How to Buy a Cell Phone

With hundreds of handsets to choose from, it can be tough to find the right one. Our ultimate guide gives you all you need to know to dial up the perfect mobile phone.

Net Neutrality Rears its Ugly Head…Again

A new set of rules for the Internet is being proposed by the FCC. Although no one has yet seen the rules in writing, the head of the FCC, and, coincidentally, a long-time cable executive, says the new rules will allow large carriers like Comcast, AT&T and others to charge more to Web sites who want faster speed.

In most people’s book, that is not Net Neutrality although the FCC says it is. Sounds like something out of the Ministry of Truth from George Orwell’s “1984.” Of course, thousands if not millions of people can see through this lie and are up in arms.

Not long ago, the FCC rules on Net Neutrality were overturned by the courts…not because they were bad, but because the FCC technically did not have the legal jurisdiction to pass such laws. But the court, who said the Net Neutrality rules are good, told the FCC all they had to do was make Internet backbone providers “Common Carriers,” just like phone companies.

But the FCC will not do that…they would rather pass rules and regulations to make more money for their friends in the cable industry…much to our detriment. Now, members of Congress as well as the leading technology companies (story #1) are standing up and saying no to the FCC.

Our first two stories bring you up to speed on this latest attempt to cripple our Internet. There is of course more to this blog than this issue and you should be able to find something that might help you out. So read on and have a great weekend. –JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Huge coalition led by Amazon, Microsoft, and others take a stand against FCC on net neutrality

The group, led by giants including Amazon, eBay, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Netflix, Twitter, and Yahoo, challenges a proposal the FCC is considering that threatens net neutrality.

Net neutrality: What it is, why you should care

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has proposed a new set of rules that will change — some say kill — net neutrality. With regulations coming soon, Congress hunkered down; and with a brawl breaking out on a dozen different fronts, here’s what you need to know about the FCC’s proposal and how it will affect you.

On average, Americans get 189 cable TV channels and only watch 17

While the results seem somewhat intuitive, they articulate a very real problem in cable TV—the fact that consumers often feel forced into paying for a lot of TV they never watch.

10 Chrome apps that make Google Drive more powerful

You can take Google Drive further with an array of Chrome apps that integrate with it and give you all kinds of options for working with the files you have stored there.

No Windows XP, Office 2003 patches in May Patch Tuesday

The company will release eight bulletins, two of them critical, and five for Microsoft Windows. Windows XP is not scheduled to receive an update, nor is Office 2003 scheduled to receive either of the two Office updates.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Chrome: Read more with fewer clicks with HoverReader

Chrome browser extension HoverReader lets you hover over links to read the full text of articles.

Five Small Free Utilities to Help with Windows Tasks

Here are five little programs that do some specialized Windows chores. They may not be for everybody but they have their own particular appeal.

Everything You Need to Know About Signing Into Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 and 8 brought big changes to Windows. Even the process of logging in and setting up user accounts is extremely different, with new types of user accounts and login options.

The Best Websites on the Internet

Here is a comprehensive list of which websites considered to be the best of the best. All of the websites on this page are organized into categories.

Instapaper updates its apps, overhauls dated web site

Folks using Instapaper — which saves web pages for later reading — can now highlight text, which syncs across all of your devices. They can also push highlighted text to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Evernote, and Pinboard.

 

Mobile Computing

How to Back Up an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Using iCloud

Everyone who owns a mobile device should back up their data. Period. With iOS, you have two simple options: use iCloud or use iTunes. This article explains how to back up using iCloud.

Top backup and utility apps for Android

Don't lose all those precious photos or your data. Most of the applications you’ll find below are capable of doing much more than just backing up and restoring applications.

How to use iCloud Keychain: The ultimate guide

iCloud Keychain is Apple's attempt to make a basic level of password management available to the mainstream. With it, your account names, passwords, and credit cards numbers can be stored in iCloud, and synced across all iOS 7 devices.

How to find your car with Google Now

Can't remember where you put your wheels? A new card in Google Now lends a hand.

How to use Google Maps offline mode on iOS, Android

Google Maps has been updated, bringing a true offline maps mode. Here’s what you need to know.

So When is the Next Big Thing?

I am not sure how to answer this questions. Please describe big? Well, since I am the one asking and answering the question, I will do my best to figure this out.

Supposedly, the next big trend in technology is wearable computer systems…things like watches, glasses, and even cameras that attach to your clothing. For instance, there is one of these out now that takes a picture every 30 seconds to record your life as it happens.

And there is Google Glass, a wearable computer in the form of glasses that takes pictures and surfs the web, among other things. But at $1,500 it may not be a big hit. I would not like to wear it.

And watches…lots and lots of high tech watches. Everyone seems to be building one these days…probably because of the persistent rumor that Apple was making one. Guess what? Apple has yet to release one. But, Amazon has just opened a wearable computing store. So expect more wearable's soon.

And speaking of Apple, their next big event is coming up in a month. There is a very good chance we will see new iPhones…this time with bigger screens. That might explain story #1…Apple’s big forthcoming push to upgrade users to their current line of smartphones. No word yet on watches.

On May 20th, Microsoft is holding another event, probably to announce a mini Surface tablet…a 7-8” tablet with a stylus. And we may get word on the next upgrade to Windows 8.1…maybe 8.2.

As for Google, every 5 minutes there is a new Android phone being released to the market. Actually I find that boring and have given up trying to keep track of all the new Android phones.

So there is your list of the next big things. As new toys come on the market, we will keep you informed…except, of course, for Android. You will have to keep up with them on your own.  And now…on with the show! -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Apple Planning To Hold ‘Enormous’ iPhone Upgrade Event This Week

As we draw closer to the eventual unveiling of the next-generation iPhone, it appears that Apple isn’t quite done yet with its currently available hardware.

Symantec calls antivirus 'doomed' as security giants fight for survival

The traditional antivirus is "dead" and "doomed to failure," Symantec's information security chief declares. Quelle surprise, considering Norton is fading into oblivion. But what next?

DuckDuckGo, the search engine that doesn't track you, finally challenges Google

The company introduced a sweeping and beautiful redesign, complete with contextual information you've come to expect from modern search engines. The overhauled engine can now return videos, images, definitions, local places, and Knowledge Graph-like bursts of basic biographical information.

Silicon Valley defies subpoena secrecy requests, but national security gag orders remain

Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft and Yahoo have begun disclosing to users that authorities have asked for their data, defying government requests that they not do so

US bank customers targeted with vishing messages

Vishing attacks usually begin with an SMS - in the latest attack, the criminals sent out messages to the customers of an mid-size bank, claiming that their debit card was deactivated. In order to "activate" it again, they were required to provide the card number and PIN.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to recover deleted files

Lost files can usually be recovered—if you discover the loss soon enough. But every time you write to the hard drive, you lower the likelihood of a successful recovery.

OneNote 2013 Tip: Disable Send to OneNote Tool

OneNote is now free for everyone and is fantastic. But it has one annoyance that won't go away...the "Send to OneNote Tool". Here is the way to fix this annoyance with a single checkbox.

The ultimate guide to staying anonymous and protecting your privacy online

Here are thirteen different methods you can use to keep prying eyes off of your web traffic. Some methods are more complicated than others, but if you’re serious about privacy, these tips will help you remain anonymous on the open web

10 Ways to Boost Your Wireless Signal

Whether your surfing has slowed to a crawl, you've got dropped Wi-Fi signals, or you've even got dead zones that receive no signal at all, our tips can help.

Authy makes two-step authentication too easy

Stop with the excuse that two-step authentication is too much work. Use Authy and thank yourself later.

 

Mobile Computing

Google Maps for iOS and Android add offline support, lane guidance, and More

Google Maps for iOS and Android is getting a big update today, bringing stronger support for offline maps to both platforms, adding in lane guidance when driving, and better turn-by-turn navigation.

11 Tips to Boost Your Android Phone's Battery Life

Top-notch Android smartphones are powerful, but unfortunately, they don't have endless battery life. In fact, many Android phone users would be happy to make it through a single day, hoping that a nightly recharge is sufficient

8 iPhone Battery Tips and Tricks

While the iPhone isn't a major power hog, particularly in terms of standby time, there are still situations where your battery can drain too quickly. Here's what you can do right now to boost your iPhone's battery life.

Top Android tablets (May 2014 edition)

Want a tablet but don't want to buy a svelte iPad Air or the petite iPad mini because you want to stay away from the Apple walled garden? Not a problem! Here are my top Android tablets for May 2014.

Best Free Antivirus App for Android

Android's increasing popularity has led to increased security threats. You don't have to pay money for protection. There's a wide choice of free security apps that will cover all your needs including a group of complete security suites with Anti-Theft capabilities.

What a Dull Day

How would you like to have only applesauce for breakfast and chicken soup for lunch? Well that has been my diet the last few days as I recover from food poisoning. God knows what I will have for dinner. But, frankly, I am full after eating these gourmet treats…and I have lost some weight. But this kind of diet is not recommended. Hopefully I will be back to normal soon.

What is my health got to do with technology? Nothing! I am just explaining why I will not have a long introduction to today’s tech blog. I just want to go take a nap. Some good news…Microsoft has issued an update to fix the gigantic security hole in all versions of Internet Explorer, including those on XP. That was not supposed to happen, but it did. So be sure and run your Windows Update and get the darned thing fixed.

OK, I am off for a nap, so its up to you from here on. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Microsoft issues fix for IE zero day

An emergency out-of-band update will be released at 1PM Thursday for the bug in Internet Explorer being exploited in the wild. Windows XP will be patched in spite of being past its service life.

Target's move to chip and pin seeks to assure consumers

Target's rollout of chip and pin for its payment cards will begin next year. Visa and MasterCard have set a deadline for U.S. retailers to be able to accept chip-and-pin cards by October 2015. If the deadline isn't met, the liability for fraudulent purchases made with chip cards resides with retailers.

Google Chrome continues to outpace Firefox

Chrome is rising up the ranks in terms of desktop browser traffic, while Firefox keeps inching down, according to Web tracker Net Applications.

How to Choose the Best Over-the-Air Antenna for Free HDTV

If you're thinking about cutting the cable to save some money, you'll need a good over-the-air antenna to watch some of your favorite shows. Here's how to pick the best one for you (along with a few favorites).

Amazon Fire TV vs Roku 3

The latest Prizefight head-to-head is here, and this time we throw two of the biggest media streamers into the ring. Find out how Amazon Fire TV fares against the Roku 3.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Get A Disposable, Secure Email Address On Demand. For Free.

Ever want to sign up for something but and you'd rather not give your e-mail address out to companies you don't know. But without a valid email address into which you can receive your registration code there's no way to sign up for the snazzy service. Now there is a way around it.

Clean up and organize your iTunes music library

Here are four ways to tidy up the music you have stored in iTunes, none of which requires complicated procedures or added software.

The Best Tricks and Extensions to Make Wikipedia Awesome

Wikipedia is a useful resource for all kinds of things, but it's pretty ugly and not all that customizable. With just a few extensions and tricks, you can make it a lot more usable.

How to Deal With Internet Bandwidth Caps

"Some Internet service providers have harsh restrictions on the amount of bandwidth you can use in a month, charging you extra if you go over your bandwidth cap. A few simple tips can help you make the most of that limited bandwidth if you can’t find a better ISP."

20 Tips Every Evernote User Must Know

Evernote is, quite simply, an online spot to store anything and everything you might find of interest later. The more you add, the more useful it becomes.

 

Mobile Computing

Google Now Shows You a List of Stores When You Go to a Mall

With this new feature, Google Now will provide you with a list of store names when you enter a mall. The best part, though, is that you can search the list for something in particular.

5 great Android app alternatives to Gmail

There are several good alternative email apps in the Google Play Store, which is practically a necessity given that Android’s stock Email app, which is meant to handle Exchange, IMAP, or POP3 accounts, is rather bland looking and light on features.

Best New Android Apps From April [2014]

From whisky-drinking to Family Guy fun-and-games, we covered a lot of ground with new Android apps in April. Here’s our pick of the bunch for the month.

Google Launches Productivity Suite  for iPad to Compete with Microsoft Office, Apple iWork

Apple has iWork, Microsoft has Office, and now Google has its own line of productivity apps that are available on the iPad. I guess Google was feeling a bit left out and wanted its own version of Word/Pages, Excel/Numbers, and PowerPoint/Keynote.

Cyber Criminals Prefer Android Because iOS is Just too Secure

Apparently, malware makers have just thrown in the towel when it comes to attempting to infect Apple’s iPad and iPhone devices.

A New Firefox and a Severely Hacked IE

The same day that Firefox released a major upgrade to its Web browser, the Federal Government warned all Internet users to stop using Internet Explorer. Now that is serious! I don’t remember the government ever warning users to stop using a program. You can read all about it in story #1. And if you use IE and Windows XP, you are really in trouble as Microsoft will not issue an IE fix for XP computers. Their advice is to use another browser like Firefox or Chrome. 

Meanwhile, seemingly coincidentally, Firefox released a brand major update of their browser. I have only been using it for about an hour, but it looks good. I think I will like it. More on that in the near future. See story #2 for all the details (and a video).

As I am recovering from a severe bout of food poisoning, I will cut my normal diatribe a bit short. But I think you will find some other good stories to wet your technology whistle. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Microsoft Races To Fix Massive Internet Explorer Hack: No Fix For Windows XP Leaves 1 In 4 PCs Exposed

In a rare move, the Homeland Security Department's Computer Emergency Readiness Team says to stop using Internet Explorer until Microsoft can plug a critical security hole.

Firefox Rolls Out Biggest Design Overhaul in 3 Years

Mozilla got personal with the biggest update to its Firefox browser since 2011 to users on Tuesday, ushering in a much-welcomed modernized look with a collection of new customization features.

Comparing Intel Core i5 vs. i7

There is a wealth of difference between Intel Core i5 and Core i7 CPUs. We break it down and explain what it all means for your next desktop or laptop purchase.

The FCC changed course on network neutrality. Here is why you should care.

Do the proposed new rules abandon earlier FCC policies on access fees? And if yes, should we care? This blog post answers these questions.

Franken says FCC Net neutrality proposal would "destroy" open Internet

Minnesota senator warns against creating an Internet fast lane for deep-pocketed corporations, says rules drafted by FCC's chairman would not preserve the open Internet.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

16 powerful browser extensions that bend the web to your will

These 16 browser extensions can help you bend the web to your will. And even better, most of them are actually downright useful. What more can you ask for?

Google Maps Street View now lets you go back in time

Turn back the clock to as far back as 2007 and watch landmarks being constructed through the years in this new Google Street View feature.

Windows 8.1 Update 1 Tip: Take the Next Step with ModernMix

ModernMix lets you run Modern mobile apps in floating windows alongside your traditional Windows desktop applications. This makes particular sense once you upgrade to Update 1.

Optimize your Facebook, Google+, and Twitter accounts

Time to spruce up your social-media accounts! If you don't know when you last changed your password, used one of your connected apps, or even logged in, then it's time to do some cleaning.

OpenOffice vs. LibreOffice: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

Apache OpenOffice and LibreOffice both still exist and are releasing new versions of their competing-but-similar office suites. But what’s the real difference, and which is the best one?

 

Mobile Computing

15 Best Free Camera Apps for Android, iPhone and iPad

Here, We’re going to take a look at the best 15 best photo apps for iPhone, iPad and Android. These camera apps are available for free. Hopefully you’ll be able to find something new and exciting features that you would like to try.

The 100 Best iPad Apps

Freshly updated this week for 2014: Fill your iPad or iPad mini with the best software available in the Apple App Store.

How to Find Out If Your Apple Device is Still Covered by a Warranty

Apple's computers come with all kinds of warranty options. From basic tech support to AppleCare, it's easy to lose track of when your warranty expires. Thankfully, The Sweet Setup reminds us that it's actually really easy to track your warranty info right on Apple's site.

Android smartphones: Oversizing trend disregards usability

For some reason, all manufacturers seem to think consumers have Dikembe Mutumbo-sized fingers and design their hardware around those specs.

Apple offers free recycling of its products worldwide

Apple is offering to recycle its products for free worldwide, and has included even third-party products like mobile phones and PCs in the program in some countries.

Microsoft Was Once a Turtle…Now It’s a Roadrunner

Last year, former Windows chief Steven Sinofsky said a three year turnaround for a new Windows was just right. He’s gone…and that tuned changed…its more like three to four months now. The new leadership in Redmond has turned on the afterburners to keep their products fresh.

Two weeks ago, we told you how a new Start Menu will return next year in Windows 9. Wrong! That will probably happen in August with what will be called either Update 2 or Windows 8.2. According to Microsoft specialist Mary Jo Foley, the Windows folks are turning out new features as fast as they can…and whatever is ready to go every 3-4 months is shipped. And the same is true in the Office and Windows Phone divisions.

It appears that the new leadership wants to keep Microsoft on top of the markets they serve…and at first glance it is working. The Microsoft earnings report issued today was very good. If they keep doing what they are doing, all Microsoft customers, big or small, will benefit. I am delighted the new leadership woke the company up.

OK, I will shut up now and let you read anything here you might find interesting. I hope your weekend is a good one. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

Windows 8.2 could bring back the Start Menu this August

Microsoft has already shown off what the Start Menu might look like if the company brought it back to Windows 8, but it now it looks like we'll actually be able to use it soon. According to leaked information, it's due to arrive this August as part of the Windows 8.2 update.

Microsoft confuses Windows 7 users with sudden release of KB 2952664

With no fanfare or warning -- and scarce details from Microsoft -- an 'important' update has appeared on fully patched Windows 7 machines.

Tech titans join forces to stop the next Heartbleed

The Linux Foundation's new Core Infrastructure Initiative creates a virtual Justice League of the biggest tech firms to ensure that open-source code gets the cryptographic scrutiny that it desperately needs.

Michaels confirms breaches exposed nearly 3M credit cards

Arts and crafts retail chain says malware at its point-of-sale terminals impacted 2.6 million cards, as well as another 400,000 at Aaron Brothers subsidiary.

So long, net neutrality? FCC to propose new pay-for-preferential treatment rules

The FCC will release a proposal soon to reinstate net neutrality rules that would allow broadband providers to negotiate with content providers for preferential treatment, an agency official confirmed Wednesday.

How to Recycle Your Technology

For Earth Day, we want to point out the places you can take your old or even dead electronics, so they can end up either being used by someone in need or safely recycled.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

The Best Security Suites for 2014

PC Magazine tested each component in more than three dozen security suites to help you choose the right software to keep your PC safe. These are complete security suites, not the limited free versions

Get Organized: Wine Note-Taking for Beginners

Look, swirl, sniff, and sip. Now, what are you going to write down about that wine, and will it be helpful to you in the future? Here are some tips and solutions for getting started with your wine-tasting notes.

Opinion: Now is the time to switch back to Firefox

Firefox is the only major browser that is written to serve users and the open web, and it's now more than a match for Google Chrome. And the new Australis version, due later this month, could be a good time to make the switch

Everything You Need to Know About Optimizing Your Wi-Fi in One Video

Getting crappy Wi-Fi reception on one side of your house? This video details a number of ways to boost your reception, both simple and complex—in only 5 minutes.

12 Surprising Ways to Use Evernote You Might Not Have Considered

Evernote is one of those rare apps I can’t seem to outgrow. I am always finding new uses for it. In this post, I want to share twelve ways to use Evernote you might find useful, and perhaps, even surprising.

 

Mobile Computing

Acompli is the powerhouse email app for iPhone that Outlook users have been waiting for

Acompli, a new free email app launching today on iPhone, represents the next step in unchaining email from the desktop. But right now it only works for Gmail and Exchange.

How to set up Chrome Remote Desktop for Android

Google released its remote desktop solution for Android devices this week, making it possible to control a PC or Mac from anywhere.

40+ Apps for new Android users

If you’re a grizzled veteran Android user you’re well aware of the best apps, but new users have no clue. The Play Store can seem like a giant ocean of choices. Consider this your lifeboat.

Refurbished Retina iPad mini Available Now at Apple Online Store

There are just two models available – the 32GB WiFi only model at $419 ($80 off the new price) and the 64GB Wifi only model at $509 ($90 off new).

Opinion: I Hate Today's Smartphones

They are all too damn big. Bigger, bigger, bigger. Bigger is better. Bigger means more value. Bigger means more will buy them. Bigger. BIGGER.

This, That, and the Other Thing

Lots of interesting things going on all over the world of technology. In story #1, the Supreme Court today heard the case of cable companies vs. Aereo. Won’t have their decision until June. Frankly, I hope Aereo wins. Yes, I am a cord cutter. Don’t need them, at least until football season. But I can’t bitch too loud…cable is included in the price of my apartment.

And speaking of cord cutting, Netflix will be raising prices to new subscribers, but not to current customers…at least for now. You just knew this was coming.

Windows will officially bring us a new and improved Start Menu, perhaps as early as late summer. Wow! They may have backtracked a bit, but the important thing is they listened. As I said a couple of issues ago, Windows 8.1 with the latest Update is a big step forward. And thanks to a couple of $5 apps from StarDock.com…Start8 and ModernMix…my laptop has become quite usable and as user-friendly as my Windows 7 desktop computer.

And what was the other thing? Just a strong recommendation…never, and I mean never, buy an Android tablet. Their phones may be OK but their tablets suck! The Apple iOS7 system is so far superior. But my main gripe comes from battery usage. Before going to bed last night (and most every night) I shut down all the power-sucking apps and put the Nexus 7 tablet to sleep. At that time, I had 85% of my battery left. This morning, I woke up to a tablet with only 22% power left. Good God! It didn’t even get used!

If I have 85% battery life left on my iPad at night, I still have 85% battery life left in the morning without doing a thing. Amazing. The other complaint I have is that most Android apps are designed for phones, not tablets whereas Apple Apps are either phone or tablet apps…and if you buy a phone app, the tablet version is automatically sent to the iPad. That works for me. Apple may cost a lot more, but quality and usability is worth it.

OK, now that all that is off my chest, its time for you to go to work and read those stories here that might be of interest. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

The Supreme Court Is About To Decide The Future Of Television

Aereo supporters say if the company loses the case, it will likely shut down. If Aereo wins, broadcasters have threatened to yank their broadcast signals off the free airwaves and instead offer them only to paid subscribers.

Netflix plans price hike for new U.S. customers

According to its letter to shareholders, Netflix is planning to raise the subscription price for new customers in the U.S. “Our current view is to do a $1 or $2 increase, depending on the country, later this quarter for new members only. Existing members would stay at current pricing

Windows 8.2 / 9 Details Leaked, Will Finally Include Start Menu And More

The highly-missed Start Menu will return in a release likely to be called Windows 8.2 / 9, or rather ‘Windows 8.1 Update 2′.

Nokia says its sale to Microsoft will close on Friday

Nokia expects Microsoft to finally take control of its devices division on April 25th, the company announced today. The $7.2 billion deal — first announced in September of last year — will see Nokia sell substantially all of its Devices and Services business to Microsoft.

Nike reportedly abandons the FuelBand and lays off its hardware division

One of the first mainstream brands to make wearable fitness electronics is getting out of the game. Nike confirmed to CNET this afternoon that the company is laying off people in its hardware division, which makes the FuelBand line of fitness trackers.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

The Many Things You Can Do with a Middle Click on Your Mouse

That wheel in the middle of your mouse is good for more than just scrolling—in fact, the button can do quite a bit. Here are some of the oft-ignored shortcuts built in to the middle mouse button

How to calibrate your monitor

Learn how to tweak your desktop or laptop display using free test patterns or the built-in utility in Windows or Mac OS

7 Windows Desktop Settings Only Available in PC Settings on Windows 8.1

If you use Windows 8.1 on the desktop, you can’t ignore the new “Windows 8-style” interface entirely. There are some important options you can only access from the PC Settings app, not the desktop Control Panel.

How to reduce the number of ads in Gmail

You can’t stop Google from scanning your inbox or serving you ads, but you can opt out of receiving personalized ads in Gmail. And you can eliminate one prominent ad banner altogether.

Easily and Safely Eject USB Drives and Memory Cards

If you are looking for a better way, you might try an open source alternative that will let you quickly and safely disconnect USB drives, even in some cases where Windows says you can't. It’s a free portable called “USB Disk Ejector.

 

Mobile Computing

 

Download iOS 7.1.1 For iPhone And iPad

Apple has just released iOS 7.1.1 download links for compatible iPhone, iPad and iPod touch devices. Therein, you’ll find minor bug fixes and performance enhancements, and below, you can check all of the details including a full change log.

Best iPhone apps to follow the 2014 baseball season

Whether you want to check scores, follow pennant races, or track no hitters — these are the very best iPhone apps for the 2014 baseball season.

Android Guide: How to Use Android Effectively

This How-To course aims to teach you how to use Android effectively, showing you the most important settings and methods needed to really become an Android pro and get the most out of your Android device.

Leak points to major redesign in upcoming new version of Android

A leaked screenshot that supposedly reveals an upcoming version of Android code-named “Moonshine” shows a completely overhauled set of app icons.

22 Best New Android Apps And Live Wallpapers From The Last 2 Weeks

Welcome to the roundup of the best new Android applications, games, and live wallpapers that went live in the Play Store or were spotted in the previous 2 weeks or so.

All Quiet on the Tech Front

As the headline says, its pretty quiet around the world of tech. Nothing very earth shattering going on. Oh, there are things going on, but not very much that would be of interest to us tech non-nerds.

That is who this blog is for…people with computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones who don’t have a lot of knowledge about how they work, but just want to get stuff done. So while there might be a lot of interesting work done in the field of coding Linux applications, you will not read about it here. This blog is about how you can effectively use technology for your benefit…with the occasional look at how emerging technologies may affect our lives today and in the future. 

Most of you are Windows users, at least on your desktop and laptops, so you you get a fair amount of stories about the present and future of Windows and other Microsoft products. Many of you, besides using Windows, also use iPads, iPods and Android devices. So I provide you with information to help you be more productive with those products.

So that is my Mission Statement in two paragraphs. You may also notice from time-to-time that I don’t hide my feelings very well. I am not what you would call politically correct and I will attack and praise most anything I think deserves it. Its one of the benefits of being a senior citizen (besides 20% off at Wienerschnitzel).

So with all that said, here is today’s tech blog. Enjoy. -JRC

 

News and Opinions

The $99 Amazon Prime arrives, with questions in tow

The idea behind Amazon’s subscription service is that it's worth the annual fee for the convenience and low prices. CNET takes a look at how much money customers are really saving.

Goodreads users can now sync Amazon purchases with their accounts

One incentive for linking the accounts, Goodreads says, is that “more books added to your Goodreads shelves means better recommendations to help you find more great books to read.

Obama creates exception for NSA to exploit internet security flaws

President Obama has given permission — in the event of "a clear national security or law enforcement need" — for the National Security Agency to exploit security flaws that it discovers without alerting companies or the public of the bugs.

Office Online (Free) Improves with Tons of New Features

Microsoft this week announced various improvements to Office Online, its free web-based office productivity experience. The firm has added new features to Excel Online, Word Online, PowerPoint Online, and OneNote Online

Smartphone Theft in the U.S. Nearly Doubled Last Year

Sadly, a potential solution to rising smartphone theft is still a year away.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Emergency repair disks for Windows: Part 2

Part 1 of this two-part series told how to create a Windows repair disk that boots a failing PC and provides tools that might fix what’s ailing Windows. Part 2 tells how to use a repair disk on all PCs — including those locked down with Win8′s Secure Boot — and also gives some advanced tips and tricks.

Google Calendar now suggests nearby locations when you add an event

Google is now pushing a significant update to its Calendar app, that adds the ability to select the precise location where an event or meeting will take place.

The Best Password Managers

In the wake of the Heartbleed bug, changing your passwords is a must. Here are some of our picks for the best password managers to keep track of them all.

The Coolest Things You Can Automatically Add to Google Calendar

Google Calendar is a wonderful tool. While many people may know that you can import pre-made calendars with lists of various holidays in them, there's a ton more cool stuff you can do with the service that's either baked right in.

The Best Cloud Storage Solutions

Having your data stored offsite in the cloud makes it accessible from anywhere without the hassle of maintaining your own local storage and file-serving systems. It makes all the difference in a disaster, too.

 

Mobile Computing

Google Launches Chrome Remote Desktop App for Android

Google has launched a Chrome Remote Desktop app for Android, which lets you remotely control your computer using your smartphone or tablet.

Getting started with the Google Camera app for Android

Google has put a Camera app of its own in the Play store for nearly all Android users to install.

33 great tips and tricks for iOS 7

Whether it’s the first time you’ve picked up an iPad or the seventeenth time you’ve pulled out your iPhone today, there are probably still some iOS 7 features and functionality that you’re not familiar with.

5 Virtual Assistants That Are More Productive Than Siri

There are several third-party apps that are stronger for personal productivity and organization, especially given that much of what Siri performs is pretty consumer-focused. PS: I personally use Calendars 5 and it is fantastic!

11 things you need to know about Windows Phone 8.1

Here's your cheat sheet for the newest features and availability of Microsoft's newest mobile operating system

Is Microsoft Waking Up From Its Long Winter’s Nap?

It certainly appears that way. Under the new leadership of Satya Nadella, things in Redmond are changing rapidly…although, in fairness, some of the changes began when Steve Ballmer was still king. You will notice that Microsoft dominates this blog…not because I planned it this way…but because they are about the only ones doing interesting things in this news cycle.

Now, as for Windows 8.1 Update, I installed it last weekend on my laptop and I must say I like the changes they made. There weren’t many, but they are good ones. First, it boots automatically to the desktop now rather than to the Metro home page. That didn’t make any difference to me as I use Start8 from Stardock that does it for me.

I noticed that it also put the Windows Store App right on my taskbar, another change. When I opened it up, I found Windows Store now carried one of my favorite iPad apps…Flipboard.

So I downloaded it…and thanks to another new feature, was able to pin it right to my taskbar so I didn’t have to open the Metro page to access it. When I run it, of course it fills up the entire screen as Metro apps do. But now all Metro apps have the big “X” in the upper right hand corner, just like all regular Windows apps. So when I click it to close out the application, I go back to the desktop. Now that is a great change! If I find more Metro apps I like, they become as usable as a regular Windows app.

There are other changes, but those were the ones that had the most value for me. But here is something everyone running Windows 8.1 should know: you must install this upgrade as Microsoft will no longer provide any updates without it (see story #4). But I have no problems with that. 

Isn’t it nice for a change that I get to praise Microsoft for once rather than rant on their latest round of stupidity. Lots of good stories here, including a story in the Mobile Computing section that compares Cortana to Siri to Google Now. I may have to take a long hard look at Windows Phone 8.1 when it is time for a new phone. Read on and enjoy! -JRC

 

News and Opinions

The New "One Microsoft" Is Finally Poised For The Future

Microsoft has completely overhauled its corporate kernel. The stodgy old enterprise company whose former CEO once called open source Linux a “cancer” is gone. So is its notorious tendency to keep developers and consumers within its walled gardens.

Office 365 Personal Arrives

Microsoft this morning began selling the Office 365 Personal subscription that the firm announced last month. This new $70-per-year offering provides a full version of Office 2013 for Windows, plus access to Office for iPad and other perks.

Windows XP lives on: Avast survey shows 27 percent of its XP users don't plan to switch

Avast, like other antimalware vendors, has committed to supporting Windows XP for two years or more. Microsoft, too, has commited to antimalware updates until July 2015. But using antimalware as the duct tape for an otherwise unpatched system is generally considered unwise.

Microsoft confirms it's dropping Windows 8.1 support

A Microsoft TechNet blog makes clear that Windows 8.1 will not be patched; users must get Windows 8.1 Update if they want security patches.

Google Updates Terms Of Service To Reflect Email Scanning Practices

Google has updated its terms of service to reflect its email scanning practices that are carried out to provide users with customized search results and tailored advertising.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Two-Factor Authentication: Who Has It and How to Set It Up

Heartbleed has everyone concerned about online safety. Stay secure with two-factor authentication. Simply put: 2FA sends a 5 digit number to your cell phone after you enter your password on a web site. You enter that number on the site and you are in.

How to Download Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 Installation Media — Legally

These tricks let you reinstall Windows without visiting a shady BitTorrent site and downloading ISOs that may be filled with malware. These links give you official installation media straight from Microsoft.

6 Ways to Use Microsoft Office For Free

Microsoft Office costs money, except when it doesn’t. From a hidden 60 day free trial that doesn’t require payment details to web apps and mobile apps, there are many ways to get Office for free.

Microsoft makes Office Online available in Chrome Web Store

Microsoft is making the Web versions of its Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote apps available to users through the Chrome Web Store.

How to clean your laptop

Admit it, your laptop is filthy. It’s time to clean it, from the screen to the keyboard to the vents.

 

Mobile Computing

With these Android apps, you'll never again pay full price when eating out

Here is a list of go-to apps that you can regularly check for discounts when looking to get a bite out on the cheap. There's really no need to ever pay full price again when dining out or ordering take-out.

How to tell if your Android device is vulnerable to Heartbleed

Believe it or not, some Android devices are susceptible to the Heartbleed bug. Here’s what you need to know.

Cortana vs. Siri vs. Google Now: An early look at how Cortana stacks up

Can Windows Phone’s new voice-activated assistant stand up to Siri and Google Now? We put an early version to the test.

Six Clicks: iOS 7 tips and tricks

"Here are six tips and tricks that will help you be more productive when using your iPad and iPhone, whether you use it for work or play."

T-Mobile says it's ending overage charges for good

Rather than hit subscribers with extra fees, the company instead slows down data speeds once customers run past their monthly allotment — a practice known as throttling.