Volkswagen Caught Cheating on Emission Tests

Can you believe Volkswagen used built-in software to cheat US emission standards? Read our first story to get all the gory details. The CEO has resigned and will probably be replaced by the president of Porsche. VW stock prices have plunged 30% on the news and are 50% lower than their highest point of the year.

Apparently the software was programmed to kick in when it detected the car was going through an emissions test. It would reduce certain chemicals in the fuel going to the engine when being tested, then kick them all back to normal when it detected the test was over. It was scientists at West Virginia University who discovered it.

Volkswagen said on Tuesday that 11 million cars worldwide were equipped with the same software that the Environmental Protection Agency said was used to trick emissions tests in the United States. About half a million of those cars are in the United States, and analysts say about 10 million are in Europe.

This cheating was only on the VW diesel cars. But was VW the only company to do it? As an indication that other European officials are growing wary, the European Commission on Thursday urged its 28 member nations to test vehicles on their roads and report the findings. France indicated its intentions to begin random testing.

The fallout from the Volkswagen diesel scandal is spreading fast to the company's other famous brands, including Porsche and Audi, and across the Atlantic to the U.S. The Volkswagen Group represents some of the most well-known car brands in the world, including Audi, Porsche, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini and of course Volkswagen itself.

This scandal will cost VW millions, if not billions of dollars in repairs to existing cars, plus millions, if not billions of dollars in fines…not to mention lots of class action lawsuits. I think this scandal will get much worse before it bottoms out.

I hope you can get some good info from the rest of this newsletter…and hope you don’t own a VW diesel car. Have a great weekend. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Volkswagen Used Software to Cheat on Emissions

The software throttles back the emissions output of the vehicles so that they pass the stringent U.S. requirements. But when the vehicles are used normally, they emit up to 40 times the legal emission amount, placing high levels of pollutants into the air. Huge fines are on their way.

 

OPM Now Admits 5.6m Feds' Fingerprints Were Stolen By Hackers

The Office of Personnel Management admitted that the number of federal employees’ fingerprints compromised in the massive breach of its servers revealed over the summer has grown from 1.1 million to 5.6 million.

 

The case against Dropbox looks stronger with each passing day

Ben Thompson, the analyst and author of the Stratechery blog, calls Dropbox "probably the most fragile" of the 10 most highly valued private companies.

 

The MacBook Air is on a path to extinction

The Air has fallen behind other Apple laptops and Apple isn't helping it up.

 

Microsoft turns to Dell and HP to help get Surface into the office

Microsoft is trying to get the Surface Pro into more offices. To do that, it's starting a partnership with Dell that'll have Dell selling Surface Pro tablets and offering business services, like device setup and support, alongside them

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Firefox 41 arrives, adding instant messaging and personalization tweaks

The new release includes updates which allow users to personalise their Firefox account, so they can share web browsing data such as passwords, bookmarks, history, and open tabs across their desktop and mobile devices. It also lets users add a photo to their account

 

Google Adding Block and Unsubscribe to Gmail

Google has announced it will improve its Gmail email service with two very useful features, block and unsubscribe, on both the web and mobile clients.

 

How to Find Section Breaks in a Word Document

Section breaks in Word allow you to break up your document into sections and format each section differently. When you create a new document there is only one section by default, but you can add different types of section breaks as needed.

 

When will I get Office 2016 under my Office 365 subscription?

The answer is "It depends." What it depends upon is your Office 365 subscription level.

 

Win10 tweaks to improve computing work and play

If you’ve spent any time working with Windows 10, you’ve doubtlessly figured out that the new OS isn’t perfect. Fortunately, in the Windows tradition, Win10’s behavior can be changed to better fit your computing style. Here are six tweaks that you may find useful

 

Mobile Computing

Apple Releases iOS 9.0.1 With Multiple Bug Fixes

Apple today released iOS 9.0.1, a minor update that introduces several bug fixes for iOS 9. The iOS 9.0.1 update comes just one week after iOS 9 was released to the public on September 16.

 

26 iOS 9 Tips for Apple Fanatics

For anyone with the latest iPhones, the jump to iOS 9 is worth it. The following tips and tricks will help you make the most of it. Use this knowledge to become an iPhone (and iPad) master.

 

Apple iPad mini 4 Review & Rating

The Apple iPad mini 4 is a top-notch small-screen tablet with unparalleled build quality and app support, but it's still hard to justify the jump in price over the iPad mini 2.

 

Four mega popular messaging apps you've probably never heard of

Want to sell your goods while chatting to friends? China's got the app for you. Need a messenger with 10,000 emoticons? Line from Japan has you covered.

 

Tom's Guide reviews US carriers, finds T-Mobile to be the best all-around

The folks at Tom's Guide have spent countless hours researching and testing to see how the US carriers compare to each other. The findings reveal that T-Mobile is the best all-around carrier, with Verizon coming in a close second.

The New Office is Here!! The New Office is Here!!

It’s here! Well, at least it is supposed to be. I have not received my copy yet. Now, you know I am talking about Office 2016 for Windows. I already received Office 2016 for the MAC some time ago. Funny how they would get the MAC version out before the Windows version. Whatever.

Anyway, the Windows version has several new features which you can read about in our first two stories. And more new features will be coming  soon as Office is now in a continuous upgrade cycle, much like Windows 10. Of course, to get Office 2016, you need to subscribe to Office 365. That is $7 a month for one license and $10 for 5 licenses. If you don’t want to spend the money, there are some free Office clones that work pretty well…the best probably being LibreOffice.

OK, it is time for you to read the rest of this blog…I am low on energy today. So enjoy and I hope you learn something new. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Office 2016: The Empire strikes back

After a lengthy public preview, Microsoft released Office 2016 today. It might not look all that different from recent predecessors, but the latest version of Microsoft Office has a ton of changes under the covers, most of them aimed at playing catch-up to the collaborative strengths of Google Apps.

 

What's new (and still to come) in Microsoft's Office 2016 for Windows

Microsoft's Office 2016 suite for Windows 7, 8 and 10 PCs and tablets is generally available today. Here's what's new and what's still to come for Office users.

 

Hundreds of Legitimate iOS Apps Infected by Malware, Removed From App Store

The infection occurred when developers downloaded a counterfeit version of the Xcode software—used to develop iOS apps—from a Chinese server because it was faster than the primary US server.

 

Which Streaming Service Is Best for You?

If you want to cut the cord, these are the most popular services. Which one deserves your cash?

 

AVG releases transparent privacy policy: Yes, we will sell your data

The antivirus firm tells us in a crystal-clear way what user data is collected and sold in return for freebie software

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Mega-Guide: 10 Ways To Customize Windows 10

Windows 10's default settings are pretty smart, but here's a blow-by-blow guide to tweaking the new OS to work (and look!) the way you want it to.

 

Need A More Powerful File Manager? Look No Further

The file manager built into your PC (ie, Windows Explorer) does a pretty good job of helping you keep your computer neat and tidy. But sometimes it's nice to have an application with a bit more power and a few more features.

 

Google spruces up Drive apps templates

Google is rolling out a new collection of templates for its Docs, Sheets, and Slides apps to give you a running start on creating good-looking documents.

 

How to Disable OneDrive and Remove It From File Explorer on Windows 10

Windows 10 includes OneDrive, and Microsoft’s official party line is that you can’t disable it. That’s not true — there are several ways to disable OneDrive and remove it from File Explorer on Windows 10.

 

Windows 10's best tricks, tips, and tweaks

Windows 10, Microsoft’s back-to-basics re-embracing of the PC, is already brimming with handy new features, and with all the new goodies comes with a legion of new tweaks and tricks—some of which unlock powerful functionality hidden to everyday users.

 

Mobile Computing

50 apps to improve your smartphone

From lifestyle aids to productivity tools, travel planners to social media, here are the apps that should have a place on your homescreen (IOS and Android)

 

Apple's 'Move to iOS' app is now available on Android

Apple's first Android app is meant to help you leave Android

 

What's the difference between Android Pay and the new Google Wallet?

Google is giving mobile payments a second go with Android Pay, and that's somewhat confusing to anyone who used Google Wallet.

The 55 Coolest New iOS 9 Features You Didn't Know About

Apple's latest mobile operating system, iOS 9, may not be the huge overhaul that iOS 8 was, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of new features. In fact, there are a ton of subtle changes that you may not notice right away.

 

How to use Notes in iOS 9 like a boss

Notes in iOS 9 allows us all to keep all our photos, notes, shopping lists in the one place we’re most likely to find it: on our iPhones.

A Browser That Blocks Ads? I Sure Hope So

One the the ballyhooed features of Apple’s new IOS 9 (and the forthcoming El Capitan OS for MACS), is the ability to block ads of all kinds on Websites when using Apple’s Safari Browser. This is done by the browser in conjunction with special ad blocking software from third party vendors.

Blocking ads benefits users by speeding up Web performance and keeping ads from cluttering the screen. But advertisers naturally use ads to generate income, and many websites that are free rely on ads in order to bring in revenue. According to advertisers, If ad blocking becomes too prevalent, many websites might have to charge users to access content or perhaps even shut down.

Users feel that many ads on the Web are intrusive, annoying and infringe on privacy. Advertisements use video, animation and other in-your-face techniques to try to grab your attention. But the privacy issue is perhaps one of the strongest, with people increasingly concerned about the data collected by advertisers.their content or else shut down.

Today, I tried one of those new add blocking apps named “Crystal” on my iPad. It has received good early ratings from reviewers and it was easy to set up and install. It seemed to do a good job but it could not stop video ads attached to other videos like those found on ESPN. But I don’t know how that would even be possible.

One day of use is not a fair trial so I won’t make a judgment on it one way or the other. I also intend to try other blockers to see if one is better than another and since Safari on MAC’s will shortly have the same capability, I think that might be a fairer trial since I use the desktop more than portable devices. Will ad blocking change the nature of the Web in the near future. Only time will tell.

Time now for you to scan and possibly read today’s stories and I hope you find something useful her. Until next week, I wish you well and hope you enjoy your weekend. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Apple will ask the Supreme Court to hear its ebooks antitrust case

Apple appears ready to appeal its long-running ebooks antitrust case to the Supreme Court. In a filing from Wednesday, the company asked for a 30-day extension before filing its petition for a writ of certiorari, a request that the court hear the case.

 

Microsoft Windows 10 hardware event scheduled for 06 Oct 2015

It is expected that Microsoft will announce the new Surface Pro 4, new flagship Lumia handsets for Windows 10 Mobile and version 2 of the Microsoft Band.

 

Amazon launches a 4K Fire TV and a $50 Fire tablet

The all-new Fire TV is of particular interest: It’s one of the few media streamers capable of delivering 4K resolution, and it costs just $100. Amazon’s least-expensive tablet will also turn heads: A 7-inch model with an IPS display that will be priced at just $50.

 

Adblockers shoot up iOS 9 app charts on day one

Less than a day after the launch of iOS 9, Apple’s latest operating system, content blocking software is at the top of the app charts worldwide

 

Apple Joins Microsoft in Resisting Governmental Access to Customer Data

Like Microsoft, Apple is stridently resisting giving governments and law enforcement access to customer data through its technology products and offerings, such as phone encryption built-in.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

 

When your computer reboots itself over and over again

Something is rotten in the state of your Windows PC. Here's how to deal with a computer that keeps rebooting.

 

How to Configure Folder Options in Windows 10

Folder options may not have received the sexiest facelift out of everything we’ve seen in 10, but there are still enough new tweaks to talk about that a new user to the OS may not immediately recognize right off the bat.

 

Learn to use the Windows 10 Recovery Drive

Sooner or later, nearly every Windows user powers up the machine — and Windows simply refuses to start. Every current version of Windows lets you create and run a self-booting rescue disc, but Win10 takes that tool to a new level.

 

Master Windows processes for better performance

What you need to know about svchost.exe, Windows memory management, and the Task Manager.

 

33 Gmail Tips That Will Help You Conquer Email

As a Web app, Gmail is a work in progress, with Google occasionally adding new functions. The amount of under-the-hood power in Gmail is pretty staggering. That's what we're here to delve into: all the tools that lay below the surface of the Gmail inbox.

 

Mobile Computing

How to set up content blocking Safari extensions in iOS 9

iOS 9 brings Safari filters that can block ads, trackers, video, popups, and more. Here's how to choose a content blocker and set it up.

 

Hands On With Three iOS 9 Content Blockers: 1Blocker, Blockr And Crystal

The Apple App Store distributes applications that allow iPhone and iPad owners to install apps offering extensions for Apple’s Safari web browser that will prevent the browser from loading not just online ads and pop-ups, but also other content that slows down browsing and consumes resources.

 

One simple trick to speed up your old iPhone or iPad

Have you owned your iPhone or iPad for a couple of years? Is it starting to feel a little sluggish? Here's a tried and tested way to speed up an iPhone or iPad that's simple to do and only going to cost you some time.

 

The 11 Best Photo & Video Editing Apps for Mobile (And Why They're So Great)

There are a lot of great photo and video editing apps out there for mobile devices, and some of them even cost a few bucks. Which are the best free and paid apps out there? Check out our shortlist

Five tips and tricks for finding, sharing, and organizing your Google Drive on Android

Much of what you can go with Drive on your computer, you can also do on Android. Here's a guide to where all the new and important tools are.

More Windows 10, More Apple, & Bad News for Google

If you use an iPad or iPhone, the new IOS 9 will be available for download tomorrow (9/16/15). I for one am looking forward to it. Many of the stories in this edition are about Windows and Apple products. So, I will let you get started reading this edition without any editorial comments from yours truly. For once, I don’t have anything interesting to say anyway. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Russia Finds Google Guilty of Antitrust Violations

Russia’s Federal Anti-Monopoly Service (FAS) has found Google guilty of violating the country’s antitrust laws by requiring hardware makers to bundle Google apps and services on Android devices. The agency said it would announce remedial punishments for the violation within 10 days.

 

OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive and Box: Which cloud storage service is right for you?

If you're ready to take the plunge into storing your files, photos and more in the cloud but need help deciding which service is right for your needs and wallet, we've got you covered with our in-depth cloud storage comparison.

 

Firefox is About to Become an Almost Complete Copy of Chrome

Mozilla Firefox is due for some big changes soon. By the end of 2015, Firefox will move to a more Chrome-like multi-process design. And, in a year to a year and a half, Firefox will abandon its current add-on system for one largely compatible with Chrome extensions.

 

Apple: iPhone 6S, 6S Plus preorders 'very strong' in opening weekend

Based on the number of preorders, Apple expects the new crop of iPhones to surpass last year's first-weekend numbers of 10 million units.

 

Windows 10 installer could be on your PC whether you want it or not

Microsoft is pushing the Windows 10 installer files to users who have not requested them just in case they decide to upgrade.

 

Windows 10 Roadmap – Fall 2015 Edition

With the release of Windows 10, Microsoft is moving to a new servicing model for the OS  that includes constantly updating the platform as well as introducing new tools.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to use Windows 10's File History backup feature

Windows 10's File History is an easy way to get started with backing up your personal files. The feature takes snapshots of versions of your files and stores them on an external hard drive.

 

How to cure Windows 10's worst headaches

These tips and tricks can help you overcome Windows 10's niggling hassles.

 

10 Quick Ways to Speed Up a Slow Windows PC

Windows PCs don’t have to slow down over time. Whether your PC has gradually become slower or it suddenly ground to a halt a few minutes ago, there could be quite a few reasons for that slowness.

 

Why You Should Use a Password Manager and How to Get Started

Password managers store your login information for all the websites you use and help you log into them automatically. They encrypt your password database with a master password – the master password is the only one you have to remember.

 

How to Get the Best Possible Price for Airfare Online

With so many different travel and hotel sites claiming to offer the best deals on airfare, how can you know which offers the best combination of discounts and ease of use? Here is a guide to finding the cheapest airlines accommodations online.

 

Mobile Computing

Four apps better than your phone's built-in address book

Built-in contacts app that comes with the iPhone or Android phones hasn't changed in years. It can be frustrating to edit, fraught with duplicates and lacking the most up-to-date information. Luckily, there are several address book apps out there that offer better

 

Apple's iPhone upgrade program: What you need to know

CNET's Marguerite Reardon looks into Apple's new program that lets customers upgrade their iPhone every year. How does it compare with similar plans from the big wireless carriers?

 

Apple adds individual voice recognition to "Hey Siri" in iOS 9

Nope, you can't run into a room filled with iPhones, shout "Hey Siri!" and cause a ruckus. Apple's personal digital assistant now responds to individual voices after a little training session.

 

Spring cleaning: Apps for getting stuff done

Getting stuff done isn’t always easy. Whether you’re procrastinating a bit too much, or forgetting about tasks altogether, it might be time to try out a productivity app on your Android or iOS device.

 

Google Street View App

Google has launched a handy app version of its groundbreaking Street View service. iOS and Android users will now be able to “tour immersive 360-degree imagery and instantly contribute your own — right to Google Maps.”

I am Back…And So is Apple Innovation

After 2+ weeks in the San Francisco Bay Area, I am back in Tucson and ready to resume my blogging duties. I had a great time, highlighted by a weekend of Indy Car racing in Sonoma and a visit to the DeYoung Museum in San Francisco to see an exhibition of paintings by my very favorite painter, JWM Turner (1775-1851). His work is amazing for his time and the title of the exhibit was, “Painting Set Free”…absolutely the perfect title.

But enough about me and Turner. Apple held its annual September event, also in San Francisco on Wednesday, and some of it caught me and many others totally off guard. You can read about all the announcements and product updates in our first story. But what captured my attention was the new iPad Pro, a 12.9” lightweight iPad that is a direct competitor to Microsoft’s Surface. Like the Surface, it has an optional keyboard that attaches to the iPad to turn it into a laptop. But, wait, there is more.

Apple announced the Apple Pencil, a drawing tool similar to a Wacom Pen, but works directly on the iPad. The demo was amazing and if I didn’t already have a Macbook Pro laptop and a 9” iPad, I might consider buying this one. Apple and others claim this new iPad has the speed and power of a laptop, using its new faster processor the A9X. They claim it is faster than 80% of all laptops on the market today. I believe it after watching all the demos.

Also announced at the event were new Apple Watches, two new phones (the 6s and the 6sPlus), and a new updated version of Apple TV. While many new features on the iPhones are great (read about them below in the Mobile Computing section), the highlight was Apple’s new iPhone Update Plan, where you can get a new phone every year. With the demise of the current Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile phone contracts, this makes great sense.

As for the Apple TV, I saw no reason to switch from my current Roku boxes…but if you do not have any of these kinds of boxes, you might consider the Apple TV…although it is quite a bit more expensive than its competitors.

Maybe the biggest surprise of all was the appearance by a Microsoft exec on stage to demonstrate Office 2016 running on an iPad Pro. Not many of us saw that one coming. If you would like to see the entire event, just go to Apple.com. There is a good chance you will be impressed.

From here on in, it is up to you to read the stories below that interest you. So enjoy! -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Everything Apple announced at its September 2015 event

A couple hundred hints later, Apple has finally revealed what Siri had up her sleeves… along with a slew of other announcements.

 

Verizon will soon launch free on-demand TV service

You will soon be able to watch some TV shows on your smartphone for free, courtesy of Verizon. The company plans to launch a free on-demand video service, expected later this month, called Go90, Verizon confirmed.

 

Microsoft is using Bing to discourage Windows 10 users from downloading Chrome and Firefox

The first time Edge users search for “chrome” or “firefox” using Bing — presumably with the intent of downloading those browsers from Google or Mozilla, respectively — they are shown a serious-looking message at the top of the search results.

 

Office 2016 for Windows Set to Launch on September 22

It’s official: Microsoft will launch Office 2016 for Windows on September 22, with volume licensing downloads following on October 1. Additionally, Microsoft has revealed how it plans to keep the suite updated moving forward.

 

Hands On: the New, Siri-Enabled Apple TV

Here is Apple, launching an upgraded Apple TV with a new interface, remote, and plan to dominate your living room and grow its ever-expanding universe of technology and entertainment offerings. That new plan? Apps.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Microsoft fixes five critical flaws, including two hitting all versions of Windows

Every supported version of Windows should get an update, fixing two issues: one in Internet Explorer 7 and later, and the other in Windows Journal.

 

Make Google Book Searches Feel More Like Browsing a Virtual Library

Part of the magic of libraries and bookstores is stumbling upon great books you weren’t looking for. These tips can make exploring Google Books feel more like that.

 

Apple Announces New iCloud Storage Prices

Upgrading from the base plan to the second tier now will still cost $0.99 each month, but Apple will be providing 50GB rather than the previous 20GB

How to customize Windows File Explorer's details view

You spend a lot of time diving into the file system on a PC. Getting File Explorer organized just the way you like it is quick, easy, and worth it.

 

Word macros: Three examples to automate your documents

Use these step-by-instructions to turn complex procedures into one-click wonders.

 

Gmail will now automatically add Google Calendar events for emails with flight, hotel, restaurant, or ticket info

The new feature, which adds events to Google Calendar based on information in emails sent to your Gmail account, is rolling out this week to Google Apps customers on desktop, Android, and iOS

 

Mobile Computing

Google officially rolling out Android Pay starting today

The new Android Pay app completely replaces the Google Wallet app on your device and requires Pay Services 8.1.13 to operate. If you have an older version of Play services, Android Pay won’t work until you update.

 

First-ever monthly Android security updates start to roll out

Luckily exploit mitigation techniques in newer versions of Android stopped the Stagefright vulnerability from becoming a pwning free-for-all, but the bug shined a bright light on Android's sub-par security situation.

 

iPhone 6S and 6S Plus: Our Complete Overview

Despite it being just an "S" year, the new iPhone lineup was packed with interesting new features and improvements.

 

A closer look at Apple’s new iPhone Upgrade Program

In place of a subsidy, you’ll be able to take advantage of cheaper monthly phone plans. Add in the phone payment, and the costs are usually similar to what was found in the old structure.

 

T-Mobile Undercuts Apple's iPhone Upgrade Plan With $20 Per Month Deal

T-Mobile will be offering a pretty sweet deal on the iPhone 6s: $20 per month on its Jump upgrade plan. That’s cheaper than Apple’s newly announced offer, but is it a better overall deal?

 

8 things Apple didn't tell you about the iPad Pro

The iPad Pro is gargantuan. Its 12.9-inch Retina HD display dwarfs the iPad Air 2. Its Hulk-powerful, but still thin and light. It's basically Apple's version of the Microsoft Surface Pro 3.

I Forgot…I am Still a Windows Insider

Microsoft surprised me yesterday with a complete new build of Windows 10. I had thought when the company sent out the “final” Windows 10, that would be the end of the Insider program. Wrong! I am still an insider so I got a brand new updated version of Windows 10 for testing. Eventually, normal users like yourself will get this one.

So what’s new? Not a whole lot that you will notice. Story #3 outlines the improvements…most of the good ones being under the hood that will give you increased performance. So far, no problems with the new build. I suspect I will be getting more builds with newer features before October. That is when you will get the newest features in an large update. PS: there are no new features added to their Edge browser. It is still very incomplete.

And speaking of Windows 10, Paul Thurrott, my favorite Windows blogger and author has published his first mini-book on how to use Windows 10. It is free and is the first story in the “Computer Tips and Tricks” section. Be sure and save this one to Evernote or OneNote.

Well it is time for me to take a trip up to the San Francisco Bay Area to get out of this heat and to attend the Indy Car Race in Sonoma…plus of course, seeing old friends. So I won’t be publishing anything for a couple of weeks. But I will be back in time to cover the big Apple event on Sept. 9. So until then, take care and happy computing! -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Major League Baseball bans the Apple Watch, report says

Technically Incorrect: Not seeming to realize that it's just a watch when not linked to a phone, MLB tells Kansas City Royals' manager Ned Yost he must not wear the Apple Watch it gave him during games.

 

Ashley Madison hack is not only real, it’s worse than we thought

The massive leak attributed to the hackers who rooted to the Ashley Madison dating website for marital cheaters has been confirmed to be genuine. As if that wasn't bad enough, the 10 gigabytes of data—compressed, no less—is far more wide-ranging than almost anyone could have imagined…and its posted on the Web!

 

Microsoft Issues First Post-RTM Windows 10 Build to Insiders

On Wednesday, Microsoft issued Windows 10 build 10525 to Windows Insiders on the Fast Ring, providing much-needed window color options, memory manager improvements, and more.

 

Platte River speaks on Hillary Clinton private server

The Cybersecurity firm hired by Hillary Clinton: 'We would never have taken it on' if we knew of the ensuing chaos. Threats of all kind, including death threats have flooded the firm that supplied Hillary with her controversial private e-mail server.

 

Hackers might have stolen IRS data on more than 300,000 households

More taxpayers than originally thought had personal information stolen in a hack that used a surprisingly simple method.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Complete Guide to Windows 10

The free Windows 10 upgrade is now successfully installed on tens of millions of PCs worldwide, but it’s still hard to find exactly the information you need. This is that guide, an organized collection of the how-to and informational articles I have written—and will continue to write—about Microsoft’s greatest-ever OS release.

 

Getting to Know the Windows 10 Store

The Windows Store has always had its fair share of growing pains, and since its debut in Windows 8, it has been dwarfed by Google and Apple’s offerings. In Windows 10, however, it finally looks like the Windows Store has turned the corner.

 

Activate GodMode in Windows 10

If the Settings menu and Control Panel are too complicated, use GodMode to find all your settings. Godmode is a dedicated folder that puts all you control panels in one place.

 

Five must-have back to school laptop accesories

The laptop isn't the only piece of tech a student needs to succeed.

 

How to Sync Your Google Calendar with Outlook

If you use Google Calendar but also use Outlook for calendar items as well as email and contacts, you might be looking for a way to keep the two calendars in sync. Look no further. We will show you how to do this using a free tool.

 

Mobile Computing

The 100 Best Android Apps of 2015

Beat the heat with some cool new apps for your Android. These are our favorites in a wide variety of categories.

 

Soon you'll be able to search the Settings app on your iOS device

iOS 9 users will love the added ability to search for a setting, instead of mindlessly tapping through the app.

 

The Best Travel Apps of 2015

You can find deals, book your flights and hotels, get help packing your bags, and get out of town with these excellent travel apps. Best of all, nearly all of them are free.

 

The Complete Guide to Clearing Space on Your Smartphone

It’s one of the most unwelcome alerts you can expect on your mobile device: storage space is running low. If you find yourself in such a predicament, don’t panic—here’s how to navigate your way out.

 

Google patches another 'high severity' bug in Android

More security fixes on the way for Android users after researchers find another flaw in Android mediaserver.

Windows 10 is Hot, Hot, Hot!

If you build it, (and give it away free) they will come! Sorry for the bad movie quote. But that is what is happening with Windows 10. Millions of folks like you and me are downloading and using it. That is such a change over past versions of Windows upgrades.

In recent years, only a small number of people would upgrade their existing computer to the new version. In fact, the majority of Windows users would only get the latest and greatest Windows when they bought a new computer. Of course, with Windows 8, those who upgraded their current computers to it had to wipe out their existing computer OS to get it (and boy were they sorry).

But with Windows 10, all that has changed. If you are running Windows 7 or 8.1, you are 99% assured that Windows 10 will work. And if it doesn’t or you don’t like it, you can easily revert back to the old system. While not every installation has gone perfectly, it’s a very small number of people who are having problems. Microsoft, to their credit, are fixing issues faster than ever before. In the last 2 weeks, they have issued 3 updates and fixes.

As for my computers, my Windows 7 installation on my MAC still says Windows 10 won’t work because of a video issue…even though I have been running Windows 10 for months on it. Oh well. And today I finally pulled out my Samsung laptop running Windows 8.1 for the first time since Windows 10 was released and it said I was not ready for the update yet. I could have pushed it, but I took my own advice and did not do it. Since I don’t use that computer anymore, it was no big deal.

In the last edition, I told you about Verizon’s abandonment of contracts. In this edition (in the Mobile Computing Section), I have more information about their new way of doing business. So if you are a Verizon user, you might want to read it.

From here on, its up to you to find the stories that best fit your needs, so have fun. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Windows 10 upgrades continue at a torrid pace

More than two weeks after the worldwide launch of Windows 10, Microsoft is keeping quiet about how many upgrades it's delivered. But third-party data suggests that the upgrade pace isn't slowing. The next major milestone? 100 million installs.

 

AT&T Was Reportedly a Long-Time Willing Partner of the NSA

Citing leaked Snowden documents, The New York Times and ProPublica reported this weekend that AT&T was a decade-long “willing partner” of the National Security Agency (NSA), providing the agency with access to billions of email messages that flowed through its networks.

 

New Report Affirms Apple's Autonomous Electric Car Is Real

A new report by The Guardian claims that Apple has been in contact with a former naval base near San Francisco owned by GoMentum, a company that works with car makers to offer them a secure and secluded place to test their new autonomous cars.

 

Google gives Hangouts a dedicated website

Google just launched a dedicated Hangouts site, but isn't quite ready to separate from Google+ just yet.

 

Microsoft issues emergency patch for all versions of Windows

Microsoft has released an emergency out-of-band patch for a "critical"-rated security vulnerability, affecting all supported versions of Windows. The software giant said in an advisory Tuesday that users visiting a specially-crafted website can lead to remote code execution on an affected machine.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Windows 10 Tip: Understand and Configure Privacy Settings

Here’s how you can configure the Windows 10 privacy features, both during Setup and after you’re already up and running. As you’ll see, Windows 10 is chock full of privacy options, each of which you can configure according to your needs.

 

How to Organize and Add Shortcuts to the All Apps List on Windows 10

Windows 10’s All Apps list functions a bit differently than the All Programs list in Windows 7. You can’t just drag-and-drop shortcuts or right-click All Programs and select Explore anymore. Use this trick to add your own custom shortcuts to the menu or remove existing shortcuts.

 

How to Find and Set Screen Savers on Windows 10

Windows 10 has seemingly removed the ability to set screen savers on your computer. Fret not however, they’re not gone, rather they’ve simply been relegated to a small, hard-to-find control panel.

 

15 Things You Can Do With Cortana on Windows 10

Cortana is one of Windows 10’s most visible new features. Microsoft’s virtual assistant makes the leap from Windows Phone to the desktop, and there’s a lot you can do with it. It isn’t just a voice assistant either — you can also type commands and questions

 

LibreOffice 5.0 Review & Rating

LibreOffice 5.0 provides much of the power of Microsoft Office in an outdated and inconsistent interface, but it's free and open-source, and any organization that can't or won't use proprietary software won't find anything better.

 

Mobile Computing

Android M's name is Marshmallow, and it's version 6.0

The Android 6.0 update, set for release this fall, was first previewed at the company's I/O conference in late May. But as it's done before, Google held off on announcing the full name to build anticipation around the software.

 

Verizon abandons contracts: Everything you need to know (FAQ)

Confused about Verizon's shake-up of the way you pay for wireless service? CNET has you covered with all of the answers.

 

AT&T bolsters mobile data plans to keep pace with rivals

New plans that offer more data for your dollar and free calls and texts to Canada and Mexico help AT&T stay competitive against T-Mobile and Sprint.

 

The free and easy way to back up your iPhone photos

Running out of space on your phone? There's a hassle-free way to preserve precious photos before deleting them

 

9 awesome paid iPhone apps on sale for free for a limited time

These are paid iPhone and iPad apps that have been made available for free for a limited time by their developers. There is no way to tell how long they will be free. These sales could end an hour from now or a week from now...so check them out now!

Google Breaks in Two

As August roles on, about the only exciting things happening are the release of Windows 10 and Google splitting into two separate companies. Since we have covered Windows 10 in depth the last couple of weeks, let’s now take a look at Alphabet, the new company created by Google.

The move by Google is a classic business stratagem…when a company becomes involved in multiple enterprises, it may be smart to reorganize into separate business divisions. Here is how this will work…Google will continue to focus on the business that brings in the majority of the company’s income…like search and advertising. The other experimental efforts that are not so profitable yet will be handled by Alphabet.

Much of this strategy is being done to placate investors and stockholders who are a bit miffed about the way Google spends tons of money on experimental R&D projects. This new split has sent Google stock value upward in the current down market While the details of this move is currently unclear, our first story should help explain some of it you.

While the rest of the news is not all that exciting, our series of tutorials on Windows 10 continues. Be sure and read the article on the new Firefox 40 made specifically for Windows 10. While Microsoft’s new browser Edge is far from finished, Firefox may have preempted Edge by being a full-fledged browser for the New Operating System.

Anyway, enjoy this edition of Rants and Raves and have a great weekend. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Why Did Google Create Alphabet?

Rather than having Google and its various projects under one Google umbrella, Google will create a new company, dubbed Alphabet, which will handle all efforts not tied to Google's core mission.

 

Firefox version 40 set to roll with new Windows 10 features

Firefox has hit a new landmark today with the release of version 40. The biggest change is improved Windows 10 compatibility, though previous versions of Firefox certainly work fine with Microsoft's new OS.

 

Microsoft fixes four critical security flaws in August's Patch Tuesday

Even Windows 10 wasn't left out of this month's bumper round of security updates.

 

Samsung's New 16 Terabyte SSD Is the World's Largest Hard Drive

At the Flash Memory Summit in California, Samsung just revealed a new 2.5-inch SSD drive with an incredible 16 terabytes of storage. It’s not only the world’s largest SSD—it’s actually now the world’s largest hard drive, period.

 

Apple updates Boot Camp to support Windows 10

Now you can run Windows 10 on a Mac, if you really want to. JRC: I have been doing it for months with Parallels.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

 

Windows 10 Tip: Configure Cortana to Work For You

Like any digital assistant, Cortana needs to get to know you a bit before she can be truly useful to you. Here's how to get started.

 

How To: Manage Email Folders in the Windows 10 Mail App

By default the Mail app that comes with Windows 10 shows only the Inbox, Sent Items, and Drafts folder in the mail account view. If you want access to any additional folders you have created for organization purposes, you can tap or click the More option in the app to expose the other folders.

 

How to customize the left side of the Windows 10 Start menu

Hate those "Most used" and "Recently added" sections of the Windows 10 Start menu? Here's how to get rid of them and add items that are actually useful.

 

How to Use Your Google Calendar in the Windows 10 Calendar App

One of the new additions is the revamped Calendar app, which is more functional than its predecessor...it’s actually downright pleasurable to use. But what if you want your classic Google Calendar synced up with Microsoft’s internal app ecosystem?

 

If you installed Windows 10 and like privacy, you checked the defaults, right? Oh dear

Here's a quick FYI: if you installed Windows 10, and in a rush to try out Microsoft's new operating system, you clicked through the default settings without looking, you may want to look again.

 

Mobile Computing

 

How to make lithium-ion batteries last for years

Proper care of a Li-ion battery can result in as much as 15 times longer service life than with an improperly cared-for battery. Here’s how to make sure that your expensive Li-ion batteries last as long as possible in all your portable devices.

 

How to check your data plan usage on your iPhone

Limited data plans suck, but getting dinged because you went over your cap sucks even more. Here's how to keep tabs on your data plan so you can avoid getting penalized.

 

Biggest difference between Android and iPhone

Although there are plenty of differences between Android and the iPhone, there's one main discrepancy that stands out the most - with Android you get choice, while the iPhone is one uniform platform.

 

Android Facing a Huge Security Crisis

Stagefright, a vulnerability in practically all Android devices that can be exploited with a simple text message. The affected user doesn't even need to open the message. Receiving it does the trick.

 

Best VPN Services

All the services reviewed here are subscription based though some offer both free and paid services. If you are only interested in free software we suggest you consult our separate review of the Best Free Anonymous Surfing Services.

Here is Something Much Better than Apple Music

While Apple Music has garnered all the attention lately, I found a better streaming music service…at least for my tastes. Believe it or not, I am talking about Google Music…more properly known as Google Play Music (they should change the name). I actually started using it a few years ago, but new additions and changes have made it my streaming music of choice.

There are two parts two Google Music. The first part involves getting your music into the service. It’s easily done, although, as you might guess, it takes time if you have a large collection. But here is the best part, if you use iTunes (Windows or Apple) to store your music, it will automatically upload your music for you from your computer. Not only that, if you download new music into iTunes, Google Music will automatically upload the new music to its servers…and if the new music is in an iTunes playlist, Google will automatically put the same music in a matching playlist. And all of this is done in the background.

So why use iTunes on your computer at all? iTunes stores your music on your computer while Google Music stores it in the cloud. You can play Google music using your browser, but there are also apps for smartphones and tablets. I play Google Music in my car via Bluetooth connected to my car’s music system.

The second part to Google Music is new. Like Apple Music, Google Music has a dazzling array of radio stations, but here is the difference.  While Apple has humans curating their specialized stations, Google creates its radio stations based on the music you already have stored in the cloud. For instance, I have a large collection of the great jazz artist Dave Brubeck…so there is a corresponding Dave Brubeck Radio Station. But when you click on it, there are many other similar jazz musicians on that station besides Brubeck.

So I have a large array of radio stations tailored for me based upon my taste in music…And it is free. To get the same thing on Apple Music will cost $10 a month when the free trial period ends. Not only that, but the kind of quality music I listen to is in short supply on Apple Music. As I think I wrote here before, Anyone over 30 does not need Apple Music.

Anyway, take a look at Google Music and see what you think. Some good information here in this edition as we continue the list of tutorials for Windows 10. So happy reading everyone. -JRC 

 

Tech News and Opinions

Microsoft Launches 'Outlook' App for Apple Watch

Microsoft has launched an official Apple Watch app for its email client Outlook, offering users of the service the ability to read emails and even respond to messages on their Apple Watch.

 

Report: Chinese hackers breached top U.S. officials' private emails

The breach, initially known as "Dancing Panda," was first detected in April 2010 and remains ongoing, a senior U.S. intelligence official told NBC News. Several key government officials, including all top national security and trade officials" in the Obama administration are victims

 

NFL highlights return to your Twitter feed this season

If you enjoy seeing NFL highlights in your Twitter feed on Sundays (and Mondays, Thursdays and some Saturdays, too), you can rest easy as those clips are staying put.

 

Apple said to host iPhone, iPad, Apple TV event Sept. 9

Lumping the devices together, as Buzzfeed reports, could indicate Apple doesn't have huge changes in store

 

Update Firefox now: major vulnerability could steal your data

A major vulnerability discovered by Mozilla lurking in an advertisement shown by a Russian news site could steal your files and upload them to a Ukrainian server without you ever knowing.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Microsoft's Sway storytelling app now available for the new Windows 10

Heard of PowerPoint, that popular (or not-so-popular) presentation program? Microsoft's own alternative, called Sway, is now available on Windows 10 devices and Apple products.

 

How to customize Windows 10's Action Center

New in Windows 10 is the Action Center, a unified place for all system notifications and quick access to various settings. It’s a nice addition to Windows, and it’s plenty customizable. Here’s a quick overview of your options.

 

Screenshot Tour: The 29 New Universal Apps Included With Windows 10

Windows 10 isn’t just an improved desktop environment. It includes many “universal apps,” which often replace existing desktop apps. Unlike on Windows 8, these apps can run in windows on the desktop so you may actually want to use them.

 

How to Use and Configure Cortana on Windows 10

Cortana is billed as more than a simple search feature. It’s supposed to be a full-fledged personal assistant much like Siri is on Apple iOS devices. Here are the basics of setting up Cortana and using it on your new Windows 10 computer.

 

How to Stop Accidental Trackpad Clicks in Windows 10 (And Other Mouse Enhancements)

It’s been the bane of laptop users for years: you’re typing away, your palm brushes the trackpad, and the accidental click inserts the cursor in the middle of the text completely screwing things up. Banish the frustration of accidental trackpad clicks with the handy built-in Windows 10 settings.

 

Mobile Computing

Verizon kills off service contracts, smartphone subsidies

In a radical shift, the company will only offer new plans that require customers to pay for their own smartphones. Also, device access fees and buckets of data remain.

Angry Birds 2: Tips, tricks, and cheats for crushing piggies

Angry Birds 2 continues the classic premise of using a giant slingshot to fling birds into rickety buildings inhabited by green pigs. New in the second edition is a randomized element which makes no two playthroughs of a level the same.

 

How to Root Your Android Device & Why You Might Want To

Android geeks often root their devices, and you can usually do it yourself in just a few minutes with one of these easy tools. After you root your Android phone or tablet, you’ll have full access to the entire system.

 

The 10 Best Tablets of 2015

Looking for something to bridge the gap between laptop and smartphone? Here's what to consider, whether you're looking for Android, Apple, or Windows options, along with ten top-rated tablets that fit the bill.

 

Tip of the Day: How to Block Unwanted Calls and Messages

For iOS: Sometimes, whether it's an ex or an obnoxious telemarketer, a person just won't get the message and stop calling you. That's when it's time to block their calls. "

The Only Game in Town...Windows 10

It's August and the interesting tech news is few and far between. Thank God for Windows 10. It is really making a lot of news. And speaking of Windows 10, if you have reserved a copy and and it has not  downloaded to your computer, be patient and wait for it to come. Don't force it. This advice comes from many tech experts. If you don't have it yet, it probably means they have not finished updating all the drivers for your particular computer. Not to worry, you have a year.

As I am late getting this edition posted, I will not have any other comment to offer...other than have a great weekend! -JRC


Tech News and Opinions

Firefox boss attacks Microsoft over the default browser settings in Windows 10

Mozilla's CEO has published a letter of complaint about Windows 10's default browser settings - which actually affect all programs, not just browsers - and been parodied over Mozilla changing users' default search setting in its own Firefox browser.
10 Hidden Roku Tricks for Streaming Success


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

US appeals court says a warrant is required for authorities to obtain cell phone location data

This 2-1 decision by the Richmond, Virginia-based Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is a big victory for those who advocate for cell phone privacy rights.

Attention students and teachers: Check if you can get Office 365 for free now - CNET

Going back to school soon? You may be able to get your hands on a free full version of Microsoft Office with just a few steps

Apple Music actually has 11 million subscribers, Eddy Cue says

If all of those users start paying up when their free trials end, Apple Music is well on its way to edging out Spotify. JRC: Of course, they won’t as Spotify has 75 million users.

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to secure Windows 10: The paranoid's guide

Worried sick over Windows 10's privacy settings? There's a lot you can do to lock them down, but you will lose some functionality along the way.

Is Your Printer Ready for Windows 10?

Microsoft's newest OS is available for free. Before you download, make sure it will play nicely with your printer.

Can't find a Windows 10 feature? Ask Cortana for help

Microsoft has rearranged the furniture in Windows 10. To find what you need, turn to the operating system's digital personal assistant.

Liking Windows 10 so far? Here's how to make it even better

There are so many new features and settings that sorting through them all can become overwhelming, and you could be missing out on making the most of your Windows 10 experience.

How to Customize the Windows 10 Start Menu

The Start menu is back in Windows 10, but it's not exactly your father's start menu. Here's how to get the most out of it. You might be surprised about how customizable it is.

21 best Windows 10 keyboard shortcuts you should know

"Some of these shortcuts might already be familiar to you, but think of new users who just switched from a Mac or simply have relied more on mice or touchscreens.

Mobile Computing

Apple’s Force Touch – the future of mobile interfaces

Apple is opening new frontiers for its user interfaces on both Mac and mobile devices with Force Touch. Its introduction will enable developers to create near-identical user interfaces across mobile and computer platforms.

The Complete Mobile Imaging Workflow for iPhone Photographers

In this tutorial you will learn how to raise the quality of pictures taken with your iPhone’s built-in camera with a start-to-finish mobile imaging workflow.

10 new Android apps worth checking out

Here is a look at some brand new apps with fewer than 100,000 installs. There are some real gems in here.

Microsoft launches Translator for Android, updates OneDrive and OneNote for Android Wear

Microsoft is very busy on the Android app front. It has launched a version of its Translator app for both Android and Android Wear, while also updating its OneDrive Android Wear app. Finally, it has released a major revamp of its OneNote Android Wear app.

Secure your iOS device with a six-digit passcode on iOS 9

Apple wants you to add two more digits to your PIN code, increasing security of your iOS device.

Windows 10–The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly

It’s been almost a week now since the release of Windows 10. Did you get it yet? I actually have it running on two computers and I will give you my humble opinion of it. Remember, I am 90% or more committed to the Apple world, but still use Windows a fair amount.

The Good:

Actually, almost all of it is good. I think Microsoft has hit a home run with this release, even though it is not 100 completed. The rest of the important bits will be coming in October, if all the rumors are true…but that doesn’t mean it is a stripped-down version. Most reviewers are saying it is faster than 7 and 8.1 and I agree with that assessment.  For sure, it is definitely safer! Microsoft put a lot of effort into making it more secure. 

Cortana, the voice activated search engine is working much better than it did in previous versions. To be honest, I don’t use it that much as I am not used to having it. But it answers the simple questions quite easily and the female voice is quite lovely. The majority of the answers are displayed on a Bing Search page, and they are almost always what I am looking for. It definitely shows promise. I hope Apple will put Siri on its OS one of the days.

Also, the Microsoft Solitaire collection is excellent and looks good. It is a free download from the Windows Store. And speaking of the store, it has been improved and is quite quick to load and easy to search. Downloads and installs from the store are a breeze. For the fun of it, you might want to check out Bloom Diary or Journal. They are also free. There are some really good, free apps in the store.

The Bad:

The special Office for Windows 10 is almost pointless. It is really made for touch devices. But to use it on a desktop computer, you must have an Office 365 subscription. Well, if you have one, there is no reason not to put the full version on your computer. The Windows 10 version is basically for portable devices, which makes sense.

The free OneNote app also stinks. It is a stripped down version of the full OneNote with many good features left out. The original free version for Windows was not stripped down.  I often add page color and lines to my OneNote pages. I can add color on my MAC version, but not lines. On the Windows Version, I can lines, but no page color. Silly.

The new Edge browser that Microsoft that is supposed to replace Internet Explorer is not finished. Many features like add-ons are not yet available. Ironically IE is not included with the Windows 10 upgrade. Edge shows a lot of promise and is quite fast, but you can’t use it now as your full-time browser. You will need to download IE, Firefox, or Chrome for you browsing pleasure.

The Ugly:

Now this issue is only for people like me who run Windows 10 inside the Parallels application on a MAC. I run Windows 7 and 10 on my MAC. I have had the Preview Edition of 10 running for months. The Windows 7 copy received the Upgrade Icon months ago. But when I went to install it, it said Windows 10 will not run as it has a problem with the Parallels video. Hello!!! Windows 10 has been running for months inside Parallels. I am not sure who is at fault here, Microsoft or Parallels. Lots of folks have run into this issue and both companies claim they are trying to solve it. Whatever.

Another big ugly is OneDrive. It has problems with all computers right now. I won’t go into it other than to say it is unreliable. Paul Thurrott, journalist, blogger, and writer has been a long-time proponent of OneDrive…but he has switched to Dropbox. I know I have had lots of problems with it on my MAC and have pretty much stopped using it. Too bad.

Well that is my cheesy review for now. I will keep plugging away with the occasional updates and mini-reviews. In the meantime, I have included more tutorials below on the new features of Windows 10. I suggest you save them in either Evernote or OneNote. Happy computing everyone!! -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

AT&T announces first DirecTV deals just weeks after takeover approval

The FCC approved AT&T's $48.5 billion takeover of DirecTV just under two weeks ago, and we're already seeing the first results — new bundles that the carrier describes as the "first-ever nationwide package of TV and wireless services."

 

Yelp is in a 'death spiral,' industry expert says

The business reviews site has suffered a string of blows this week, including the departure of its high-profile board chairman. Can it regain its footing?

The Laptops With the Best Battery Life

There are two ways to make sure you don't run out of juice on a long travel day: buy and charge an external battery pack, or just buy a laptop with really long battery life.

Amazon Prime sharing just got more difficult

Amazon.com has placed new limits on its Amazon Prime subscription service,

New Windows 10 scam will encrypt your files for ransom

Just days after Microsoft released its latest operating system, hackers have begun targeting soon-to-be Windows 10 users with an emerging kind of malware.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Windows 10's best tricks, tips, and tweaks

Windows 10, Microsoft’s back-to-basics re-embracing of the PC, is already brimming with handy new features, and with all the new goodies comes with a legion of new tweaks and tricks—some of which unlock powerful functionality hidden to everyday users.

 

Windows 10's Built-In Mail App: Everything You Need to Know

The mail client in Windows 10 is easy to set up and has a simple, touch-friendly interface, but it's capable of handling even complex email scenarios with aplomb.

 

Tips to Get the Most Out of Windows 10's New Photo App

The new Photos app includes image correction and enhancement, as well as organization capabilities. It's much closer to something like Mac OS X's Photos app than to Paint.

 

3 ways to customize Microsoft Edge

Microsoft's new browser may have dropped the 'Spartan' nickname, but if you open it up you'll find that, feature-wise, it's still pretty...spartan.

 

Windows 10 Feature Focus: Backup and Recovery

While Windows 10 doesn’t actually add any new backup or recovery tools, it provides great upgrades to the tools it previously offered in Windows 7 and 8. As important, full system image backup and restore capabilities are no longer squirreled away and hard to find or use.

 

Mobil Computing

How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Plan

Does shopping around for mobile phone service have your head spinning? We've got you covered with this handy interactive calculator and tips for choosing the right carrier and plan.

 

Why iPhones Are More Secure Than Android Phones

Here’s a dirty secret: Most Android devices never receive security updates. Ninety-five percent of Android devices can now be compromised via an MMS message, and that’s just the most high-profile bug. Google has no way to apply security patches to these devices, and manufacturers and carriers just don’t care.

 

The Best Android Tablets of 2015

No love for the iPad or Windows slates? Here's what to look for in an Android tablet, along with the top-rated models we've tested.

 

More on Microsoft's expected new 'premium' Windows Phones

Microsoft is expected to field two new 'premium' Windows Phones later this year, codenamed Cityman and Talkman. Here's the latest report on those handsets.

 

Sprint's chairman: US networks are 'very, very bad'

Masayoshi Son, who is also CEO of a Japanese carrier, says the network quality in the US "is not something you should be proud of," and directly calls out his rivals.

Surprise! I Already Had Windows 10…Now Its on 2 Machines

Yesterday morning, after coffee, I opened up my Windows 10 Technical Preview window to see how the new version of Windows 10 looked. And what did I see? Nothing new. No messages, no pop-up Windows, no notifications…nothing. It was Windows 10 as usual. Turns out that the build I received last week was Windows 10 RTM (release to manufacturing). They added a couple of security updates before yesterday, but that was all. I was a little disappointed.

But then came the big surprise. I turned on my PC running Windows 7 and I noticed the little Windows 10 icon in the lower right corner was gone. That was strange. So I clicked on the Windows Update icon in the Control Panel…and there was a message…Windows 10 was ready to load into this machine. WOW! I immediately started the process, without backing up my PC first. Dumb, but it turned out OK.

It took about an hour to do the entire upgrade. I didn’t have to do a thing, except sweat that everything would be alright. After an hour, my home screen popped on. It looked exactly like my Windows 7 screen with a couple of small changes. Everything was exactly where it should be. But, as soon as I clicked on the new start button icon, I knew I had Windows 10.

I played around a bit and found that all my programs worked just fine. No problems at all. I even found that it had included a couple of Windows programs that I had previously downloaded on my test machine. I assumed it recognized me because I used my Microsoft ID. I must admit I was completely impressed with the process and the results. PS: This blog is being written on my Windows 10 PC.

I do suggest you do your backups before you do the upgrade…just to be safe. You can also wait to upgrade to see if there are any problems reported in the media. This Windows 10 is just the beginning. In October, there will some massive updates and additions to it so it will be the Windows 10 that Microsoft first envisioned a couple of years ago.

There is a lot about Windows 10 in this edition, especially in the Computer Tips section. I included some of the basic tips to help you get started. In the next few editions there will be many more. I hope if you do the upgrade, it goes as well for you as it did for me. -JRC  

 

Tech News and Opinions

Scientists have finally discovered massless particles, and they could revolutionize electronics

They can theoretically carry charge 1,000 times faster than ordinary electrons.

 

Critical security flaws patched in latest Chrome release

Google has fixed a number of critical bugs in the new Chrome 44 update across multiple operating systems

 

Wikipedia Encyclopedia as a Printed Book

If someone were to print the entire Wikipedia encyclopedia into a book, the size of the printed book would roughly be equivalent to 2000+ volumes of the Encyclopedia Britannica. Well, its been done.

 

Reported attack on United Airlines shows everyone has valuable data to protect

No longer focused on stealing credit card numbers alone, hackers are flexing seriously dangerous muscle, security experts say.

 

Review: Goodbye, Windows 8; hello, Windows 10

Mary Jo Foley is a reporter covering Microsoft, but no computer nerd. Here is her 'non-reviewer's review' of Windows 10 after using it for a week. Spoiler alert: Her laptop has gone Windows 10 and isn't going back.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Getting to Know the New Start Menu in Windows 10

The Start menu in Windows 10 is a blend of the old menu found in Windows 7 and the oft-reviled Start screen in Windows 8. The result is something more useful to desktop and tablet users alike. Here’s a basic primer on what you need to know.

 

How to Get a Windows 7 Start Menu in Windows 10

If you want to try Windows 10 but wish you could have the old Start Menu, your wish has been granted with the just-released version 4.2.2 of Classic Shell.

 

10 Tips to Help You Get the Most Out of Windows 10

Windows 10 builds on the best of Windows 7. Here's how to bend Microsoft's next OS to your will.

 

Windows 10 Feature Focus: Calendar

The Calendar app in Windows connects to multiple accounts and helps you manage your work and personal schedules. Indeed, it only works with online accounts.

 

How to Use Windows 10 Action Center

Action Center is a very useful notification and quick settings sidebar; here's how it works

 

10 new keyboard shortcuts in Windows 10

Most of Windows 10's keyboard shortcuts are the same, but here are a few new ones you'll need to learn.

 

How to downgrade Windows 10 in a few easy steps

If you’ve already taken the plunge, but feel that you would prefer to return to a previous version of Windows, then there is a fast and easy way built into the OS that can restore your old system. In this feature we’ll show you how.

Mobile Computing

Angry Birds 2 is the 'sequel' you've been waiting for

Well it’s about time. Nearly six years after the original Angry Birds burst onto the mobile gaming scene Rovio is back with its official sequel, Angry Birds 2.

 

6 gotta-know sound settings for Android and iOS

Clicking the volume rocker isn't the only way to control the sound on your Android phone or iPhone.

 

How to set-up iCloud on your iPad

One of the more useful ways to get the most out of your iPad is to set-up iCloud during the initial set-up process. Although if, for whatever reason you don't, you can always come back to the set-up procedure at anytime in the Settings app on your iPad.

 

AT&T wants your smartphone to get FM radio

There's an FM radio hidden inside of most smartphones, even though most phones in the US don't actually allow you to use it. But soon, they may start working if you're on AT&T.

 

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

Everyone is concerned about online safety these days. Keep your services secure with two-factor authentication.