Download.Com: Goodbye Crapware

Finally! Download.com and a couple of other software download sites have stop adding malware, crapware, and other unwanted pieces of s#$%^&t to their downloads. These sites are where people like you and me go to get quality, mostly free software. But starting a few years ago, they added bad things to the products you were getting…sometimes telling you, sometimes not.

I wrote about this practice back in July of 2013, warning you never to use download.com again. Finally, the message got through to CNET (the owners of download.com) and they stopped this practice. Of course, freeware and shareware sites that added malware did it for the money. They would be paid by these shady companies to include their crap with downloads of legitimate software.

I could never understand why CNET would do this. They have a sterling reputation for providing informative tech news and reviews. You may have read several articles over the years here that originated at CNET. But, they chose to befoul their reputation with dirty practices. To make this worse, CNET is owned by CBS, so by association, that latter company was also tagged.

But those days are apparently over. I am glad. The only thing I can ask is why it took so long? However, download.com is still full of misleading advertisements with “Start Download” buttons that attempt to trick users into downloading the wrong program. Having multiple big green “Download” buttons is confusing to many normal PC users.

Now, I bet you thought I would lead today’s blog with the final reminder of the end of free Windows 10 upgrades. After all, the end of that program is only hours away. And I am sure if you run Windows 7 or 8, you have already been notified with Microsoft’s full screen interruption message that you only had a short time left. So there is no need for me to remind you…although you could say I just did. Oh well.

There are lots and lots of good stories and tips here today, so I hope at least some of them will be useful for you. Have a great weekend!! -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Download.com Has Finally Stopped Bundling Crapware

SourceForge and Tucows aren’t the only download sites cleaning up their act. We can finally confirm that Download.com, also known as CNET Download, has ended the installer program that they were so often criticized for.

 

It's official: Apple has sold more than 1 billion iPhones

The iPhone isn't even 10 years old, but its impact on the tech industry, and on Apple itself, has been huge. Now it's reached a new milestone.

 

Poll says only 9% of U.S. iPhone owners planning to upgrade to iPhone 7

Some 34% of respondents said that if Apple switched to a three-year cycle, they would adjust their own upgrade pattern to match – upgrading their phones every three years rather than two

 

Made in China: Four horsemen of the iPhone apocalypse

Huawei, ZTE, Xiaomi, and Lenovo are coming, and Apple and Samsung can't stop them. cheap smartphones are on their way.

 

Donald Trump encouraged Russia to hack Hillary Clinton's email

The Republican candidate says Russia should recover some of the missing 30,000 of Clinton's personal emails.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Microsoft takes another step toward making Office apps smarter

For subscribers to the Microsoft Office 365 productivity suite, spellcheck is going to get a lot smarter with the addition of Editor for Word, coming in August.

How to clean your Windows registry and speed up your PC

Practically everything you do in Windows is recorded in the registry. Here’s the problem: If you pry open the registry, you’ll find it about as cluttered as a teenager’s bedroom. That’s because Windows doesn’t efficiently clean up after itself as it goes about its daily business.

 

How to Enable Offline Browsing in Firefox

If you’re in a location with unreliable internet connectivity, or none at all, you can use your browser’s cache to access copies of websites you’ve already visited when you were online.

 

Removing Windows 10's default apps isn't easy, but CCleaner can help

The CCleaner third-party utility does what Microsoft won't do for you.

 

Five Ways to Optimize Your Workspace for Productivity

Whether you’re at home, in a shared space, or hanging out a coffee shop there are quick and easy fixes to help make your work space work for you.

 

Mobile Computing

Microsoft Pix is a camera app for your iPhone that improves your photos

While the default camera app on the iPhone takes great automatic photos, Microsoft thinks it can do better.

 

9 Photography Tips For Your Travels

This in-depth article will bring you a fresh perspective for your travel photography. Recommended reading for anyone who takes photos.

 

Make your iPhone read aloud to you

By enabling an accessibility setting, you can make your iPhone read the text of whatever it is you have open, from a book in iBooks to an article you have open in Safari or another app.

Google launches Family Library, a way for families to share Google Play purchases

This includes the ability to share movies, TV shows, books, apps and games across Android phones and tablets.

 

Google Play starts showing apps' actual download sizes

Google Play now displays the actual storage space a whole app or an upgrade will take up, so you don't accidentally download anything too big.

 

10 Android smartphones that cost less than $100!

Before you consider unlocked, make sure to read this post which is our guide to buying unlocked smartphones.

As the Sun Sets on an Internet Pioneer…

Its been coming for quite a while. Yahoo, although still a popular site for millions of users, has been slowly fading away as a money making concern. They were early pioneers of the fledgling Internet. They had the most popular search engine going along with their Yahoo Mail application. Then along came Google, and it all started going the way of the do-do bird.

Millions of users still rely on Yahoo Mail, Yahoo News, Yahoo Sports, Yahoo Search, Flickr, Tumblr, Yahoo Messenger, Rivals, and many, many more. They just were not profitable.

Yahoo’s roots start at Stanford University when it was founded by two Electrical Engineering graduate students Jerry Yang and David Filo in 1994. Originally named, "Jerry and David's Guide to the World Wide Web", the name was changed the following year to Yahoo.com. Eventually it became most popular portal to the Web.

Skipping ahead a few years to 2008, Yang was still CEO when Microsoft offered more than $44 billion to buy the company. Yang said the offer was to low and Microsoft bowed out of the picture. Yang was fired by the board the next year. Yesterday, Yahoo was sold for $4.83 billion...11% of what Microsoft offered. The leadership at Microsoft must be breathing a huge sigh of relief at their failure of this acquisition.

What happens now? Only time will tell. Our first story will give you more details.

And speaking of Microsoft, I don’t have to tell you that the free upgrade to Windows 10 comes to and end in a couple of days…and that next week, Microsoft releases its next big upgrade to Windows, the Anniversary Update. With that in mind, I have included two reviews of the new Windows. If you are still sitting on the fence, I think you need to read these two reviews and get off the fence and do the upgrade. Both articles recommend it because the new Windows is really good.

If you still run Windows 7, this new upgrade will put you 3 versions behind the latest and greatest…2 behind if you still run Windows 8.1. Make yourself an image of your computer’s drive then do the upgrade. PS: Windows 10 users get the upgrade for free.

OK, time to for me to bail and you to do some reading. Enjoy! -JRC

  

Tech News and Opinions

Verizon to buy Yahoo for $4.83 billion, merge it with AOL

After a drawn-out process, a troubled Yahoo finally knows its fate, which means the end of independence for one of the web's earliest stars.

 

First look: Microsoft's Windows 10 Anniversary Update

Unlike most Microsoft watchers, I haven't been installing the interim Windows 10 preview builds since last fall. Here's my first look at the Windows 10 update coming August 2. My advice, after using the Anniversary Update for the past few days is any Windows 7/8.X user who is thinking at all about going to Windows 10, now's the time.

 

Microsoft Windows 10 Anniversary Update Review & Rating

The interface, security, Edge Web browser, and more have improved to the point that Windows 10 is worthy of our Editors' Choice award.

 

Report: Apple Watch sales have fallen 55% since launch, but don't panic

The Apple Watch is flopping big time, according to the latest report from market research and analysis firm IDC. The firm's latest findings indicate Apple Watch sales were down 55 percent in Q2 of this year.

 

New movie screen technology lets you see 3D without glasses

Better yet, the technology actually makes the picture more crisp. Dubbed Cinema 3D, the technology also makes the on-screen image viewable from any seat in the theater.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

This new Outlook feature will organize your inbox for you

Microsoft is bringing one of the best features of its Outlook mobile app to the desktop. Users of Outlook on Mac and Windows will start seeing their inbox separated into two tabs: Focused and Other.

 

Microsoft Announces July Updates for OneNote

Windows isn’t the only traditional Microsoft software that is being updated like a service: Its Office applications are as well, and this week the software giant highlighted the improvements its making to OneNote in July.

 

OneDrive's smarter photo features help it catch up with Facebook and Google

Improvements include automatic photo albums and new folder layouts.

How Create a USB Flash Drive Installer for Windows 10, 8, or 7

In this guide, we’ll be making a simple USB drive that acts just like an installation DVD, and lets you install one version of Windows.

 

The 5 best budgeting apps for tracking and planning your financial life

Take control of your spending and build wealth.

 

Mobile Computing

Google Maps update brings cleaner look and new areas of interest

Google spruced up its Maps app on Android and iOS yesterday, as well as its web counterpart, in a bid to make it easier to understand.

 

Google Play app updates will use less data

App updates downloaded from the Google Play Store will now use up less of your monthly data plan

 

10 new Android apps worth checking out

New Android apps worth taking a look at.

 

6 ways to take charge of the stock Android keyboard

Add some color to the keypad, use a snapshot as a keyboard background, long-press to type symbols, change the keypad height, and more.

 

4 tips for buying a used iPhone

Buying a used iPhone can be tricky -- here's what to watch out for.

 

Hopper’s travel app helps you pick the best dates, airports to save more money on your trip

With the launch of Hopper 3.0, the app will now also make personalized recommendations regarding how to adjust your trip plans to save more money, as well as point users to other travel deals.

The Clock is Ticking…One Week to Go

I know you know that the free upgrade to Windows 10 ends on July 29. And if you don’t know and still run Windows 7 or 8.1, Microsoft will remind you with the full screen reminder we told you about last week. Enough said.

So, from this point on, you are on your own. Enjoy! -JRC

 Tech News and Opinions

The free Windows 10 upgrade expires July 29

If you've been on the fence about upgrading to Windows 10, now's the time to decide: It's free until July 29; after that you'll have to pay. But we have tips to give you some wiggle room, if you want to download now but install later.

 

Behind the Numbers: Microsoft Continues Its Transition to the Cloud

Fully two-thirds of Microsoft’s revenues are now derived from cloud-based services, and this part of its business is steadily growing.

Twitter announces crackdown after online abuse of 'Ghostbusters' actor

"Twitter says it had moved to permanently suspend a number of user accounts for abuse and harassment after Ghostbusters actor Leslie Jones on Monday drew renewed attention to the issue.

Mozilla is finally killing Flash next month (mostly)

Starting August 2016, with Firefox 48, Mozilla will block all Flash content deemed “not essential to the user experience.”

 

NFL set to install chips inside footballs this season

The initial purpose of the technology implementation is to measure the accuracy of field goal kicks, which will help the NFL determine if it should narrow goalposts and increase the difficulty of field goals and extra points.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to uninstall Windows 10 and go back to Windows 7 or 8.1

If Windows 10 isn't for you, there are a few options you can use to uninstall the it and go back to Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, and here we show you how.

 

Microsoft Celebrates the Windows 10 Anniversary with Windows Store Offers

Here’s a tip for Windows 10 users: Microsoft is offering deals on apps, games, movies, TV shows, and music in the Windows Store tied to the July 29 anniversary of the initial Windows 10 release.

 

How to Access Your Wi-Fi Router's Settings

Here's how to change a home Wi-Fi network's name, password, or other elements.

 

Can You Use Microsoft Edge As Your Only Browser?

Every copy of Windows 10 comes with Edge, the company’s sleeker, more modern web browser, selected by default. Microsoft even feels its browser is a step above in speed and efficiency, especially when compared to resource-hogging Chrome. But there are issues.

 

Why You Should Wait Before Dropping Evernote

Note takers everywhere are talking about leaving Evernote after recent price hikes. But how much of a hassle would it be, and will the alternatives work for you? Here's what you need to know.

 

Mobile Computing

How to Take Better Pictures with Your Phone’s Camera

Smartphone cameras are often more intuitive than more traditional cameras, and landing the best possible shot just take a few considerations

 

The Best Way to Edit Photos on the iPad

Adobe's Lightroom for iPad is a full-featured photo-editing app that syncs with Lightroom on the desktop, and delivers a surprising number of photo-correction tool

 

7 Things You Need to Know About the Sensational Prisma Photo App

Step aside, Instagram: The latest photo-enhancing app craze is Prisma, an app from Russian developers that turns prosaic smartphone shots into art.

 

The 10 best productivity apps for iPhone of all time

As long as you know the right apps that can lend a hand, your life could become a lot easier. Here is our list of the best productivity apps.

 

Zoho Notebook is the prettiest note-taking app you'll ever use

Notebook is drop-dead gorgeous, with a simple interface and a visual organization system that lets you choose covers for your various notebooks and group related notes into stacks. For iOS and Android.

 

Try a blue light filter on your phone or tablet, your eyes will thank you

Some tablets and phones come with a feature built in called a blue light shield, or filter. I have one in right now for review from Acer with just that. And it's absolutely magnificent.

Terrorist Tweets Being Pulled

In a action that seems long overdue, Twitter is starting to pull pro-terrorist tweets from their site. The company has resisted doing that up till now, as they are very strong proponents of free speech. But, now, enough is enough. Freedom of speech has always had its limits. We all learned in school that freedom of speech did not include yelling “fire” in a crowded theater. And it should not include rooting for the wanton killing of innocent people.  Hopefully other sites will follow suit.

In the world of business acquisitions, two deals took place in the last few days that affect many of us: First, the Japanese Company Softbank bought ARM, the chip manufacture based out of Britain, for a whopping $32 Billion. How does that affect you? ARM makes the processors that run all your cellphones and many of your tablets, including iPad.

The other big deal was anti-virus company Avast buying another anti-virus company, AVG for $1.3 Billion. I am sure many of you use one or the other anti-virus software in your computers. I have used both at one time or another, but not lately.

Lots of good info here as usual for your computers and mobile devices. If you are a Pokémon Go player, I’ve included a Website that has a ton of information about playing the game, whether you are an expert or a beginner, this site will be a big bonus for your game-playing…and no, I am still not playing it.

So why not get started reading today’s blog. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Twitter was quick to pull extremist tweets following Nice attack

The social network is taking a more proactive approach to fighting pro-terrorist posts.

 

Antivirus giant Avast is acquiring rival AVG for $1.3b

The transaction will allow Avast to expand its business across more markets worldwide; together, the two companies have a user base of about 400 million.

 

SoftBank to Buy ARM, a Mobile Chip Designer, for $32 Billion

The deal gives the Japanese company control of a firm whose chip designs can be found in most of the world’s mobile gadgets, from iPhones and drones to a growing array of smart devices and appliances for the home.

 

This tiny storage breakthrough could hold 10 terabytes of data in one square centimeter

The system is based on chlorine atoms at -198 degrees -- but it could have a future in the cloud.

 

Microsoft starts downgrading OneDrive's free storage to 5GB

You might have to say goodbye to your 15GB camera roll bonus, too.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

 

Upgrade to an SSD: The best way to make your computer feel like new

This article shows how you can replace your computer's hard drive with a solid-state drive and be significantly happier with your life.

 

How to fix a dead key on your keyboard

It may not be as bad as you think. First, you probably need to clean whatever is under that key.

How to run a DOS program in Windows 10

There may be some some old applications that you can't live without. Here's how you can keep them.

 

36 Tips Every Evernote User Must Know

What are the tips and tricks that will make you an Evernote master? We've got them here for you.

 

10 Tips for Editing Travel Photographs

Travel photography has a certain lure that brings out the uninhibited snapshooter in all of us. But how do you deal with the volume of images you download to the computer after your trip?

 

Mobile Computing

Five ways to take better selfies (without the stick)

Tired of blurry, badly framed, poorly lit selfies? Follow these tips to improve the quality of our personal portraits.

 

How to Get Public Transit Directions in Apple Maps

Maps got a nice upgrade for iOS 9 with the introduction of Public Transit Directions. The process is the same as usual, but now there’s a button for Transit.

 

How to Factory Reset Your Android the Right Way

So if the time has come to perform a factory reset on your Android device, fret not, because these tips will ensure that the process is as quick and painless as it can be.

 

Personal assistant bots like Siri and Cortana have a serious problem

Assistants have a dirty little secret: They don’t actually understand you. At least, not in the way you might think they do.

 

‘Pokémon Go’ Creator Closes Privacy Hole But Still Collects User Data

Players with iPhones should log out and download the update; game’s developers say it never snooped.

 

Pokémon Go: how to download, play, and thrive in Nintendo's new world

If you insist on being a Pokémon Go player, here is a Web site with a ton of information about playing the game and learning all its secrets.

Amazon Prime, Pokémon Privacy, and Audible Channels

Lots of errata to cover this day. First, Amazon’s big one day Prime Day sale. As you can see by the headline of our first story, it was a big success…and it really was a big, big sale. Tons of items, all on sale in this one day blockbuster. I only bought one item: a 750 GB, $200 SSD drive.  Bottom line, I saved $90 on it. That is a really good deal!

Second, the big Pokémon Go privacy fiasco. This game was a huge overnight success with millions of people downloading and playing the game. It is a augmented reality game meant to be played in various location around the country…some of them highly inappropriate… such as Holocaust Museum and the 9-1-1 Memorial. If you see groups of people looking at their cell phones someplace, they are probably playing Pokémon.

But the biggest problem with the game is the invasion of your privacy. Originally, when you downloaded it, you gave it permission to access all your Google information like contacts, e-mail, photos, and other information that you may wish to keep private. The Pokémon people say it has been fixed, but I would not count on it. If you must play it, make sure you get the latest version to protect some of your privacy. Personally, I wouldn’t touch the game with a 10 foot pool. I have no interest in it and the privacy issues are scary. Be warned!

Finally, some good news. Audible, the company that lends audio books (over 250,000 of them) for a monthly fee, has added “Channels” to its lineup. Channels offer more bite-size content from original content producers, as well as recordings of news stores from NYT, WSJ, The Washington Post and others. You can choose from fictional short stories in different genres, non-fiction like history, or news stories.

If you are an Audible subscriber ($14.95 a month), Channels is free. Otherwise it is $4.95 a month. I was a beta tester for Channels and I can tell you it is wonderful. I have listened to various stories and quite a bit of news. I love Audible and regularly listen to books of my choice…great for driving. Channels is a marvelous addition.

I am tired of writing so I will let you read all the news that is fit to print plus some great how-to’s for your computers and mobile devices. Have a great weekend! –JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Amazon's Prime Day breaks single-day sales record

On an otherwise typical Tuesday in July, Amazon pulled off the biggest single day of sales in its more than 20 years of doing business, outdoing all previous Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

 

iOS version of Pokémon Go is a possible privacy train wreck

Niantic has confirmed in a statement that the Pokémon Go app requests more permissions than it needs but that it has not accessed any user information.

 

Senator Al Franken issues letter asking Niantic to clarify privacy concerns on Pokémon Go

Although one of the most glaring issues was fixed in an update issued earlier today, this statement comes with a longer and more detailed list on clarification of how the data is being used.

 

Microsoft is Bringing Skype to Linux, Chromebook and Chrome Web Browser

If you’re feeling a little frosty this morning, it might be because hell just froze over.

 

Audible’s new Channels audio content subscription service is a bet on a voice-powered future

Amazon-owned Audible announced a new service called Channels, one that differs from its typical audiobook business in offering more bite-size content from original content producers, as well as recordings of news stores from NYT, WSJ, The Washington Post and others.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Firefox will get overhaul in bid to get you interested again

The newest version of the browser includes technology designed to speed it up and lock it down.

 

How to Show the Control Panel and Recycle Bin in the Windows File Explorer Navigation Pane

A quick setting change can make your navigation pane look a bit more like the traditional tree you’d see in an Open/Save As dialog box, with a few normally hidden folders–like the Control Panel and Recycle Bin–to the view as a bonus.

 

3 alternatives if you don't want to enter a password on your Windows machine

You boot your PC; you enter your password. You come back from a break; you enter your password. You open your laptop; you enter your password. Let's make this easier.

 

17 Tricks to Master Google Photos

Read this for all the little tricks that will allow you to get the most out of your account.

 

How to Use Virtual Desktops in Windows 10

Virtual desktops were finally added as a built-in feature in Windows 10. If you open a lot of programs at once, this feature allows you to keep them organized.

 

Mobile Computing

OK, Google: 160 valuable voice commands for Android

This diverse collection of voice commands will turn your phone into a powerful personal concierge -- no tipping required.

 

The Superbook is a $99 laptop shell for your Android phone

The Superbook is a 11.6-inch laptop shell allows your Android smartphone to run a desktop-like operating system.

 

10 new Android apps worth checking out

The weekly Fresh Meat column highlights new apps with fewer than 100,000 installs.

 

How to use Snapchat

We’re not going to sugar coat it: Snapchat can be confusing as hell. The app is so different from other social networks, those coming from Instagram or Facebook may find it extremely daunting, especially if you’re just starting out.

 

iPhone Camera: The Ultimate Guide

The built-in Camera app for iPhone and iPad lets you take amazing photos, panoramas, bursts, time-lapses, videos, slo-mos, and more!

 

The best iPhone widgets 2016

We've collected the 10 best apps that use widgets creatively to keep you up to date and entertained — all from your iPhone's lock screen.

Facebook and the News…It just sucks!

I can’t believe people use Facebook for news. It is the last place I would ever go to get my news fix. Why? Because Facebook can’t be trusted. They are constantly changing their privacy rules, the way they operate their business and especially the way they curate the news. This latest controversy of police shooting videos is just the tip of the iceberg.  

In fact, I don’t want anyone, except myself, to curate the news I read. As the editor of the Guardian put it, the news is becoming distorted by algorithm decisions at companies like Facebook. Lately, Facebook is more interested in showing graphic videos rather than pushing the more important news of the day…most of which doesn’t have attached videos. Social media is about keeping up with your friends and family…its the last place you should go for your news.

Its like letting the Kardashians live your life for you. No brains required.

This is a very deep subject and I think our first story covers the subject rather well and gives you much to think about. As a college grad with a degree in journalism, the state of journalism in the world is quite interesting to me…and in many ways quite frightening.

I stopped watching TV news a long time ago as it is completely reliant on video to tell the story. So, where do I read the news? My two main sources are Flipboard and Apple News. Flipboard lets me pick the subjects and Apple News lets me pick the publications I want to read. For the most unbiased distribution of news, you can’t beat the BBC.

This is a very in-depth subject, far more than I can cover here.  There is a lot to think about. So for now, I will back off and let you read the rest of this blog in peace! -JRC  

Tech News and Opinions

Facebook *is* biasing the news — but not in the way you think

Facebook news prefers graphic videos like cops dying on the street. There are plenty of incredibly important stories that Facebook is downplaying in your news feed because the algorithm that controls it favors video over text or photos.

 

Are You Happier Without Facebook?

Facebook users are 39 percent more likely to be unhappier than their friends who stopped using the site. JRC: I sure am.

 

Sharing Your Netflix Password Is Now a Federal Crime

The court decisions says millions of people could be "unwitting federal criminals"

 

Here's how fake telephone tech support scams work

Interested in finding out how fake telephone tech support scams work? Well, grab a cup or glass of your favorite beverage, and prepare to be educated, entertained, and horrified. (videos)

 

Opinion: Here's why 2-in-1 PCs are destroying the iPad and Android tablets

Don't be fooled by fans of iPads and Android tablets -- it's much easier to get real work done on a Windows-powered 2-in-1 PC than it is on Android or iOS-powered hardware

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Everything you need to know about Google's My Activity page

What does Google know about you? Everything. Find out about you.

 

12 Steps To Safer Online Banking

From social engineering scams to spear , there’s no method crooks won’t try to get to your money.

 

SlimWare Utilities SlimCleaner Free Review & Rating

SlimWare Utilities SlimCleaner Free is a tune-up utility that uses aggregated data collected from its user base to recommend the optimal settings for your PC.

 

How to access your Chrome apps without the apps launcher

Google plans to remove the Chrome Apps Launcher from Chrome for Windows, Mac, and Linux in July. Luckily, there's a workaround

 

10 reasons why you shouldn't upgrade to Windows 10

Windows 10 is the best Windows yet, chock full of handy new features, sleek under-the-hood improvements, and headache-killing extras. But it’s not for everybody. There are some very real, very valid reasons not to upgrade to Windows 10.

.

Mobile Computing

 

Calendar: The ultimate guide for iPhone and iPad

How do you organize your appointments, update your agenda, plan events, and keep on time with your iPhone and iPad? The built-in Calendar app, of course!

 

How To Edit Your iPhone Photos With Photoshop Express

Adobe’s free mobile app for shooting and editing photos on your iPhone is a simple editing tool that’s perfect for quick edits and social sharing.

 

The Best Tablets of 2016

Whether you're looking for an Android, Apple, or Windows tablet, here's what to consider, along with our top-rated slate

 

How these tiny $17 lenses can turn your smartphone into a microscope

At just 1.5mm thick, the Blips lenses from Italian startup Smart Micro Optics are designed to transform virtually all mobile-device cameras into pocket microscopes.

 

Find all the apps you've ever downloaded on your phone

Android, iOS and Windows all keep convenient running lists of every app you've ever downloaded.

 

15 best arcade games for Android

Arcade games on mobile aren’t quite the same as their coin-operated predecessors, but they can still provide a good time. Here are the best arcade games for Android!

Evernote Users: Don’t Panic!!

Evernote is a great product. I know because I have been using it for years! In fact, Evernote told me once I was one of its earliest users. And for years it was free. In fact, it still is free.Over time, there have been several changes to the terms of service for free users like me. Their goal is to push users to Evernote Deluxe monthly subscription services…of which there are two levels. From what I read, Evernote is in some financial difficulty and needs more income.

Just last week, they announced two terms of service changes…one: free users like me can only use Evernote on two devices…and two: prices were raised on their monthly subscription fees. The tech media has made a big deal about this. For now, I just want to talk about the free service.

I use Evernote for one thing only these days: copying Web pages that I want to save for future reference. For everything else I want to save in a notebook, I use Microsoft’s OneNote. I can use other programs to clip Web pages, but I think Evernote does it far better than anyone else. I’ve created many categories in Evernote and can easily clip Web pages into the correct category. In fact, using the Evernote Web Page Clipper add-on that is installed in every browser, Evernote automatically assigns my page clips to the correct category about 95% of the time. I love that.

Now, I can hear you saying if I love it that much, I should pay for it. I could, but I already have several subscriptions that are more important, like Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud. There are no free options available for those and they are important to me. So I pick and choose my subscriptions carefully. Since my use of Evernote is not all that much, I choose to stick with the free version for now.

As I mentioned last time, I currently have Evernote on 6 devices. So now, I have to delete their software on 4 devices. I already know which two devices I will keep. But am I worried about accessing my Evernote files on the other 4? Not in the least. Here is why:

The tech media makes a big deal about the changes at Evernote and there are several stories floating around (including here) about alternative programs that can do the same thing…most of them free. But, having read these stories, none of them mention one important fact: If you are a registered Evernote user, you can access all your files on their Website!  And that will not change. So those 4 devices I use that will shortly be without the Evernote app, can all access my files using a Web browser. So, as the headline says, don’t panic!

Using Windows 10, you can pin your Evernote Web Site to your Start Menu, so it is even easier to access (see how to do that in story #1 in the Computer Tips section). With other operating systems, you can bookmark the Evernote site for easy access.

I have a feeling that Evernote will limit Web access to paid users sometime in the near future. Then, I may have to move all my saved pages over to OneNote…or bite the bullet and pay for Evernote. I will worry about that when it comes to pass.

In other news, there is a serious piece of malware that has infected millions of Android phones around the world. If you have an Android phone, you need to check your phone to see if you are infected. And I mean, do it today! You can read how to do it in our first story in the Mobile Computing section.. You can also get more info on the malware in our first story in the Tech News section.

While Evernote users don’t have to panic, Android phone users need to panic! -JRC   

 

Tech News and Opinions

This Android malware has infected 85 million devices and makes its creators $300,000 a month

A strain of of Android malware has infected 85 million victims across the globe, generating at least $300,000 every month for the gang behind it, thanks to millions of pop-up adverts and app downloads.

 

Opinion: Android is imploding, and there's nothing that can be done to stop it

In the space of a few short weeks we've seen Sony cease smartphone production in Brazil, Dell quit the Android tablet market, and LG show some of its execs the door after the "flagship G5 smartphone failed to generate sales.

 

National Geographic won't 'cheat' with digital photos

The magazine has published a piece both promising "honest" shots and explaining how it screens for Photoshop trickery.

 

Man arrested following several attacks on Google offices

A car was burned and shots were fired at a Google building in Mountain View, allegedly by a man who felt "Google was watching him and that made him upset," according to a police affidavit.

 

Opinion: Mossberg: The tyranny of messaging and notifications

These days, messages come at me from so many directions that it’s incredibly distracting and even harder to deal with. Can anything be done to help?

 

Amazon to offer speedy delivery service on some Prime Day deals - CNET

E-commerce giant will offer delivery of more than 500 items in an hour or less during its annual sales event to customers in metropolitan areas served by Prime Now.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to pin web links to the Windows 10 Start Menu or Task Bar

The easiest way to access your most used web site links in Windows 10 is the new Start Menu and the Task Bar, treating them more or less like programs in and of themselves.

 

What's the best and worst browser for Windows 10?

Top browsers Chrome, Opera, Firefox, Edge, and Internet Explorer are pitted against each other to find out which is the best and worst browser for Windows 10.

 

Five free alternatives to Evernote

Evernote's latest rejigging of pricing and features has got a lot of users down. But fear not -- because there are a number of alternatives out there, and for the most part, they are totally free.

 

How to make Google Drive apps look and work more like Microsoft Office

Here are a few dials you can turn to get Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides to perform a little more closely to their Office counterparts.

 

Tab tamers: Essential Chrome extensions for cleaning up browser clutter

Working with too many tabs can slow down you and your PC. Manage your multitasking with these add-ons.

 

Mobile Computing

How to tell if your Android phone has the HummingBad malware

Security specialist Check Point says the software, called HummingBad, can take root in your phone, collecting your personal data and making it act like you've clicked on ads that you haven't

 

Verizon ups prices and data on monthly plans, introduces Carryover Data and more

Verizon has announced a number of new features and services for its customers starting on July 7.

 

4 ways to turn off annoying notifications on your Android phone or iPhone

Weed out the random calls, messages and alerts, and focus only on the ones that really matter to you.

 

Android’s Confusing “Do Not Disturb” Settings, Explained

When Google dramatically overhauled Android’s phone silencing with Do Not Disturb in Lollipop, then re-designed it again in Marshmallow, things got a little confusing.

 

Apple Pay: The ultimate guide

Apple Pay, which lives inside the Wallet app, keeps all your credit cards, debit cards, store cards, and loyalty cards safe and secure on your iPhone or iPad.

 

The 25 best iPhone tricks you didn't know existed

Here are 25 excellent iPhone keyboard tips, hidden shortcuts and fun iPhone tricks that you probably didn't know about - covering clever features in iOS 9, iOS 8 and earlier versions too.

Countdown Begins for the End of Free Upgrade

It’s not like we haven’t told you this repeatedly for the last 11 months, but just wanted to warn you that Microsoft is going to bug you about it one last time. If you already upgraded like me, you won’t be seeing this. Thank God for that. So you have 24 days left before Microsoft stops bugging you…less if you upgrade.

And while the clock runs for for the end of the free upgrade, the countdown is also running for the release date of the Windows Anniversary Edition on August 2. I think that is exciting…well maybe just a little exciting. But, that is just me. I am also excited about the release of the new MAC-OS and the new iOS for Apple phones and tablets in a couple of months.

Around that same time, Apple will tell us about the new iPhone 7. Now I do find that exciting as I will be able to upgrade to this year. However, some of the rumors going on make me a little cautious. The one rumor that might be a deal killer is the possibility of doing away with the headphone jack to make way for new lightning port headphones. Talk about creating a solution to a non-existent problem!

The other rumor I heard today was that they will do away with the 16 GB memory option and go with 32 GB as the starting point. That is good. But they will also do away with the 64 GB option which is bad. I have the 64 GB memory chip in my current iPhone and have over half of it unused. For me, that means 32 GB would be too small and 128 GB would be too big.

As I said, these are only rumors right now. Apple keeps their secrets very well, even better than the CIA or NSA. We shall have to wait until September to find out the truth. What is not a rumor is all the stories, tips and tricks that are included in this edition. So why don’t you get to it. -JRC   

Tech News and Opinions

Microsoft goes full-screen for final Windows 10 upgrade nag

The software giant is preparing one last push to convince people to upgrade to Windows 10. Will you do it?

 

Apple to offer U.S. iPhone-users easy opt-in for national organ donor registry

The move comes shortly after the U.S. government vowed to reduce waiting times for organ transplants, noting that a person is added to the waiting list every 10 minutes, while 22 people die waiting every day.

 

Walmart now lets customers pay with its app at many stores across the US

The service is getting close to reaching nationwide availability.

 

Android N is now Android Nougat

Nougat is the latest dessert-themed version of Android, due out later this summer. The announcement comes after the company said at I/O last month that users could submit suggestions for the name online.

 

The FBI recommends not to indict Hillary Clinton for email misconduct

Despite the significant evidence and serious nature of the misconduct, the Bureau ultimately decided that a prosecution would not be appropriate.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

How to Get Google to Quit Tracking You

Where you go, Google goes. If you have location services turned on, then Google Maps has keeps track of every step you (and your smartphone) take.

 

Soon you'll be able to Cast tabs from Chrome without an extension

Users will also be able to right click on a page and click Cast, which will be faster for just about everyone.

 

What to expect from the Windows 10 Anniversary Update

The unconventional evolution of Windows 10 continues with the upcoming release of the Anniversary Update, version 1607. It's not just a service pack. Here's what's new.

 

How to turn an old Wi-Fi router into an access point

Instead of getting rid of that old and busted Wi-Fi router, you can use it instead to extend the Wi-Fi coverage of your home. Here's how.

 

Five ways to delete yourself from the internet

Finally ready to get off the grid? It's not quite as simple as it should be, but here are a few easy-to-follow steps that will at the very least point you in the right direction.

 

Mobile Computing

The Best Unlocked Phones of 2016

Tired of the restrictive carrier payment plans that come with new smartphones? Check out the 10 best unlocked handsets we've tested. As low as $150.

 

Millions of Android devices have flawed full disk encryption

Hackers can use brute force to break into tens of millions of Android devices using full disk encryption, thanks to a series of security issues linked specifically to Android kernel flaws and Qualcomm processors.

 

PSA: Encrypt Your PC, Phone, and Tablet Now. You’ll Regret It Later If You Don’t

If your device is encrypted, almost no one will be able to access the data within–as long as you have a good password or screen lock

 

FaceTime: The ultimate guide

How do you use FaceTime to make audio and video calls to anyone with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac?

 

How to Type a Period on the iPhone Keyboard with Only the Space Bar

It turns out there’s a super fast shortcut for typing a period that brought me an irrational amount of joy.

 

How to Set Default Apps on Android

The good news is that getting to where you need to be starts in the same place on basically every Android device out here: Settings.

Now We Know…The Big Windows 10 Update is August 2

Microsoft has announced that the Anniversary Update to Windows 10 will be released, as the headline says, August 2. This is a major update (originally codenamed Redstone 1) and will have many new features.One of the biggest features will be the addition of extensions (AKA Plugins) to the Edge Browser, finally making it usable. I look forward to trying that one out. Also there will be new enhancements to Cortana, the voice assistant now in Windows 10.

Microsoft plans are to update Windows twice a year, although this will be the only one for this year. The next update, AKA Redstone 2, will be in the Spring of next year. Beginning in  2017, Microsoft hopes to stick to its 2 upgrades per year schedule. Of course, these upgrades will all be free to Windows 10 users.

The Anniversary edition will arrive 4 days after the scheduled end of the free Windows 10 upgrade plan which ends on July 29. That is only one month away. So this news might give you pause to think about upgrading to Windows 10 before the free upgrade period ends…if you have not already done so. Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that it will not extend the free upgrade offer after July 29. 

Another big announcement this week comes from Evernote (see story #2). This wonderful note-taking and note collection software will limit the free service users to only using two devices to run the software. As it is cross-platform, I currently have mine on 6 devices, so will have to make a decision as to which devices to use. I admit I was a little miffed when I read that announcement, but then realized all my Evernote notes are also on the Web so I will still be able to access them from every device.

I can’t get real mad at them like some users as their service has been free for all these years.  But, they also raised the prices of their monthly paid services, which has ticked off some other folks. But remember, you can move all your notes to Microsoft’s OneNote which is free for everybody and performs the same services as Evernote on almost every platform.

I use OneNote for almost everything except saving Web pages as I think Evernote does a better job…and I will continue to do that. By the way, the cost of unlimited access to Evernote is now $70 a year. For that exact same money, you can get Office 365 which has all the office programs (including the deluxe OneNote) and one terabyte of free OneDrive storage. That seems like a no-brainer to me.

Let’s now see what else is in store for you in this edition of Rants and Raves. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Microsoft's Windows 10: Anniversary Update to hit August 2

Microsoft will release the next big update to Windows 10 on August 2 across the more than 350 million active devices where it is now running, and on other coming new PCs, phones, and more. That is 4 days after the end of the current free upgrade program.

 

Evernote Announces Price Hikes and Two-Device Limit for Free Users

Users of Evernote's free Basic plan will soon be limited to using the service on no more than two devices, such as a computer and a phone, two computers, or a phone and a tablet.

 

Microsoft Eases Transition from Evernote to OneNote

Microsoft now has a OneNote Importer utility that will import your Evernote-based notes into the software giant’s completely free Office-based solution.

 

IBM's Watson may provide a shortcut to treating cancer

The tech giant's cognitive computer system will help oncologists with the data-intensive work of identifying mutations in DNA and finding specific treatments.

 

Amazon Prime Day 2016 announced: 100,000 deals and “dramatically increased inventory”

It’s Black Friday in July all over again. Amazon just announced the second edition of Prime Day, its massive shopping event open exclusively to Prime subscribers.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

The Best Cheap Laptops of 2016

Your next PC doesn't have to cost a small fortune. Some of our favorite laptops ring up for well under $500.

 

Google's My Activity reveals just how much it knows about you

The addition to Google’s account settings, called My Activity, allows users to review everything that Google has tracked about their behaviour – across search, YouTube, Chrome, Android and everything else – and edit or delete it at each step.

 

Windows 10 Tutorial: How to reset your PC and keep your files

Windows 10 makes it easy to start over by letting you reset the operating system but keep your files and programs intact. Here is how to find and start this feature.

 

How to Make Windows Troubleshoot Your PC Problems for You

The Windows Control Panel includes a variety of “troubleshooters” designed to quickly diagnose and automatically solve various computer problems. Troubleshooters can’t fix everything, but they’re a great place to start if you encounter a problem with your computer.

 

How to Test Your Computer’s RAM for Problems

Is your computer unstable? There may be a problem with its RAM. To check, you can either use a hidden system tool included with Windows or download and boot a more advanced tool.

 

Mobile Computing

The Best Mobile Hotspots of 2016

Why rely on public hotspots for Wi-Fi when you can bring your own with you, wherever you go? Here's what you need to know to choose the right hotspot, along with the top-rated models available now.

 

Best free Android VPN

Last time we told you what to look for in Android VPN; today we have our top recommendation. Find out which free VPN offers the best combination of data cap, connection options, and user-friendly privacy policy.

 

How to update Android apps

So you've got loads of apps downloaded and installed on your Android smartphone or tablet but can't see how to update them. Find out in our how to update Android apps guide.

 

How to find out if you have the latest Android security patch

Software updates don't always guarantee you're up to speed with security. Here's where to look.

 

Disable three iOS features you likely use only by accident

Some features only get in the way. Learn how to disable two iPhone features and one iPad feature that you probably can do without.

 

How to set up and use the News app for iPhone and iPad

If you don't feel like getting the newspaper every day and prefer your news on the go, the News app for iPhone and iPad is there to keep you up-to-date on all the news that's important to you. Here's how to get started!

Just Say No…Now It’s Easy

You may have heard of people who were upgraded to Windows 10 without their permission…or it may have happened to you. And while Windows 10 is the best Windows ever, no one, including Microsoft, has the right to upgrade your computer without your permission.

The problem was that you did give your permission, without even knowing it! This is where Microsoft turned devious. You probably saw a pop-up Window similar to the one above that told you it was time to upgrade and that you can do it now or later this evening. Not much of a choice. If you saw that and said I don’t like those choices, you probably clicked the Red X in the upper right corner to get rid of the screen. When you did that, you gave Microsoft permission to upgrade your computer.

Now that is devious and just plain wrong! In January, Microsoft changed Windows 10 to a “Recommended Update.” They made no bones about it and publicly announced this change the previous October. Now, most of us have Windows set up to automatically update their computers with recommended and critical updates. By having it set up that way, you gave Microsoft permission to upgrade your computer. The devious part was not giving you more pop-up Windows telling you your computer was going to be upgraded with a chance to cancel the upgrade!

Most of us don’t think about the classifications of upgrades. Why should you? Yes, by allowing upgrades, we assume Microsoft will give us improvements, fixes, and mostly additional protection from data thieves. I don’t think anyone gave them the right to change your entire operating system without fair warning.

Microsoft took a lot of heat for these tactics and deservedly so. Now, with only a month left for the free upgrade, they will be using the above screen that gives you the right to just say NO!  Besides the criticism, Microsoft had to shell out $10,000 to settle a lawsuit over this very issue (see story #2). This new “say no” screen should have been used a few months ago.

There is more good information here, but from this point on, you have to take charge. PS: Just to be clear, by clicking on a link to read story, you are saying YES! -JRC   

Tech News and Opinions

 Microsoft to make saying no to Windows 10 update easier

Microsoft is changing the wording of its 'Get Windows 10' update prompt to make cancelling the free update easier and clearer.

Microsoft pays out $10,000 for automatic Windows 10 installation

Company withdraws appeal leaving it liable for $10,000 compensation judgment after botched automatic upgrade of travel agent’s computer

 

19 Things You Didn't Know Your Chromecast Could Do

While the ultraportable device is pretty much plug and play, there are a few tips and tricks that can make casting more magical. Check them out here.

 

Brexit campaign wipes its homepage amid accusations of false promises - CNET

Prominent Brexiters have been backtracking on key promises made during the EU referendum. Now the campaign's homepage has erased links to those claims

 

Opinion: 7 Reasons Why You Don't Need a Tablet Anymore

Early adopters of tablets often talk about how little use they have for these devices any more. For several, their tablets sit on the coffee table in the same position for days.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Roku puts your laptop in control of movie night

The updated Windows 10 app is ready for touchscreen, mouse or voice control.

 

Microsoft tweaks activation rules for the Windows 10 Anniversary Update

Microsoft this week announced a seemingly minor change to its activation process. Under the new rules, it should be easier to reactivate Windows on a PC after major hardware changes. But is there more to the story?

Google sharpens Maps, Earth with petabyte of crisp NASA satellite imagery

Google Earth and Maps now offer sharper images of the world, thanks to fresh data from NASA's newest Landsat satellite.

 

Is Your PC Running Smoothly? Make Sure with a System Diagnostics Report

The Performance Monitor is one of many useful tools buried deep in Windows. It can generate a System Diagnostics Report with information about problems and suggestions of how to fix them.

 

Your router isn't as fast as you think it is. Here's why.

Here is a good explanation of Wi-Fi speeds and how to manage your networking expectations.

 

Mobil Computing

The 7 things to delete first when your iPhone storage is full

To get back space on your phone, it means you'll need to get rid of some stuff. But don't worry — if you do it smart, you'll barely notice what you've deleted. Here are seven things things you should toss out if you need to free up even more space

 

5 Android shortcuts you'll wish you knew all along

While Android doesn't have keyboard shortcuts, these time-saving tips are the next best thing.

 

How to encrypt your iOS or Android device

Keep your personal data protected in a few easy steps.

 

Make slow-motion videos on a phone video

A short video on how to make slow motion videos with your smartphone.

 

How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Plan

Carriers go out of their way to make it as difficult as possible to find straightforward prices or any plan on offer. This may help you get a handle on the best prices for you.

 

11 Secret Codes That Unlock Hidden Features on Your Phone

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)—sometimes known as "quick codes" or "feature codes"—is an extra-UI protocol, which allows people to use hidden features.

Sticking with Windows 7? Here is What You Need to Know

Check out our first article in the Computer Tips and Tricks section. It is for all you stubborn Windows 7 users who don’t want to upgrade to Windows 10. While I don’t necessarily agree with your decision, I completely understand. Why change when what you have works just fine. Upgrades can be scary. Will it all go well, or will there be problems? I upgraded 3 computers and one mobile device and I can tell you all four went well and they all still work perfectly.

If you decide to make the jump, be sure and do a complete backup…preferably a clone of your hard drive. That way, if you do have problems, you can wipe out the Windows 10 drive and restore your clone copy. I would also run a complete virus scan and clean out all the stuff you don’t want to keep prior to making the clone. I suggest using the Windows 7 Built-in Backup…its free since it already on your computer. I used it for years without any problems.

Many of you know I switched to a MAC as my main computer and mostly love it. Like Windows, it too has some issues that drive me a little crazy. But I also use Windows 10. I estimate that I use my MAC about 70% of the time and Windows 10 about 30%. I use Windows 10 mainly because there are some programs that are not available for the MAC.

For instance, I write this blog using a new version of Windows Live Writer on my desktop computer (last week I used it on my laptop as I was not home). There is not one blog application for the MAC that works this well. Another example: The Office 365 version of OneNote is far superior to the Office 365 OneNote application for the MAC. So I will happily keep using Windows for these two apps and a few others.

I bring all this up as there is only 36 days left in the free Windows 10 upgrade program. After that, it will cost $119 to upgrade. Of course, you can wait until you get a new computer sometime in the future. But be aware that Windows 7 is no longer available on new computers. So you are going to get Windows 10, one way or another. Personally, I think Windows 10 is the best Windows ever made. So I advise you to think strongly about upgrading for free before July 29.

PS: around the same time, there will be a major upgrade to Windows 10 with lots of new features, so keep that in mind also.

Plenty of other good tips and some interesting news in this edition see keep on reading…please. Thanks. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Senate rejects FBI bid for warrantless access to internet browsing histories

An amendment designed to allow the government warrantless access to internet browsing histories has been narrowly defeated in the Senate.

 

Opinion: Is It Time For Microsoft To Rebrand?

CEO Satya Nadella has been creating a new Microsoft...maybe its time for a new brand.

 

Being open source is killing Android

Once Google has released a new version, the OEMs and carriers are free to tinker with it to their heart's ontent. That results in fragmentation.

 

5G technology  gets a shot in the arm from the FCC

Chairman Tom Wheeler wants to make sure the US stays No. 1 in wireless. He's got a plan to free up additional spectrum for 5G wireless technology.

 

Amazon unveils all-new Kindle

Amazon's all-new Kindle is now 11 percent thinner and 16 percent lighter than the previous generation Kindle, making it easier to hold for longer. Priced at $79.95

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Sticking with Windows 7? 5 Things Every Stubborn Windows 7 User Should Do

Whatever your reason, you need to keep your security in mind if you’re sticking with Windows 7. Here are a few tips for anyone who hopes to stick with Microsoft’s most popular operating system.

 

The best paid VPN for Windows

Virtual private networks offer a number of advantages: secure Internet access, greater privacy when you're Web browsing, and access to geo-restricted content. We've tested paid VPN services to find out which one is worth your money.

 

Useful hidden features in Office 365

As you or your company keeps paying for it, Microsoft automatically adds cool new features. Here is a list of the best, little-known things you could do with the software.

 

Windows 10 tip: Look up your IP address quickly

You don't need to dig deep into Control Panel or use a command line to find your IP address. That information (IPv4 and IPv6) is in Task Manager, if you know where to look.

 

How to Run Any Program as a Background Service in Windows

If you’re like most Windows users, you have lots of great little utilities that run when you start Windows. While this works great for most apps, there are some that would be nice to start even before a user logs in to the PC.

 

Mobil Computing

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

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

How to choose an Android VPN

How do you pick the trustworthy and useful VPNs out of a lineup of possibly shady characters?

 

The Best Android Phones of 2016

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

 

Snapseed 2.6 is rolling out now to iOS & Android

Often called the best photo editor for mobil devices, Google has announced that the latest version of its photo editor Snapseed is now rolling out to iOS and Android users. The latest version packs a slew of useful features.

 

Which iPhone lens is best? The Zeiss ExoLens looks like a winner.

The iPhone has one of the best smartphone cameras out there. The only thing holding it back? Its fixed lens.

 

12 Tips to Master Email on iOS

Sticking with the original Mail app isn't a bad thing, however. Whatever you use, take a look at what is unique—it may help you decide on exactly what app you want serving up your inbox.

Apple Now Paying Consumers for Price Fixing Scandal

If you read e-books, you may be getting a check or credit from Apple as part of its $400 million dollar settlement for price-fixing with major publishing companies. This clear-cut, long-running case of price fixing finally now comes to an end. The publishing companies involved all settled a long time ago. Apple held on saying they were innocent. An appellate court said otherwise and the Supreme Court refused to hear the appeal.

So how much will you get? $6.93 for every book that a New York Times best seller and $1.57 for all other books. Not a lot to be sure, but I guess it is better than nothing. It is nice to know that Apple and the others all got caught trying to screw us. Oh, and by the way, the lawyers in the case get $50 million. I guess its better to be a lawyer than a book reader. Of course all this money is just a drop in the bucket for Apple.

There are other good stories here as well as some great tips and tricks for all your computing devices. So read on and enjoy. -JRC

Tech News and Opinions

Ebook Purchasers to Receive $400M from Apple in Price-Fixing Settlement

Attorneys representing the consumers argued that Apple inflated ebook prices 30 to 50% and participated in anticompetitive price-fixing with the publishing companies.

 

Microsoft shows how bad Chrome is for your laptop's battery

Microsoft has been busy conducting its own series of battery test experiments to prove what we already know: Chrome drains your battery.

 

Which browser is most popular on each major operating system?

New data from the U.S. Government Digital Analytics Program finally provides hard numbers about web usage. Here's a breakdown of which browsers are winning on the four most widely used desktop and mobile operating systems.

 

Apple ramps up privacy - now all iOS apps must encrypt web connections by year end

Apple is accelerating its push for encryption, mandating that all iOS apps enforce secure connections over the web by the end of 2016.

 

Surprise! The First Big Company With the Nerve to Get Into the Marijuana Business Is...Microsoft

Just a few days after buying LinkedIn, Microsoft announces new cloud-based pot compliance software.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

 

SSD vs. HDD: What's the Difference?

Do you like your storage plentiful and cheap, or do you like it fast and safe? Here's how to choose between a traditional hard drive and a solid-state drive in your next PC.

 

Clean PC: Microsoft's Refresh Windows Tool Can Help Make Windows 10 Crapware-Free

The Refresh Windows tool will be available from within Windows 10 going forward and will let users remove all of the crapware that comes with a new PC. Now that’s progress.

 

Siri vs. Cortana: How Siri showed up Cortana at Apple's WWDC demo

Apple isn't going to let Microsoft claim that it has the most productive digital assistant without a fight.

 

35 Tips Every Evernote User Must Know

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

 

Stop videos from autoplaying in your browser

When you go to a website to read an article, you want to read the article, not listen to a video.

 

Mobile Computing

Yahoo launches new Radar smart travel guide & assistant app for iPhone

Yahoo launched a new iOS app called ‘Radar’ that it says will act as a smart travel guide, offering up recommendations on points of interest and pulling in trip itineraries, reservations and other travel information.

 

Apple Maps in iOS 10 will watch you, even if you're using Google Maps

Apple appears to have a plan to make Apple Maps more compelling than Google Maps: let its software watch everything you do and offer to help whenever possible

 

The 7 best VR games for iPhone

No Android? No problem! There are plenty of cool VR games for iOS. All you need is a headset

 

Google adds 2-step verification approval prompt on Android devices

Starting today, you can approve account logins from a prompt on your authorized mobile device

 

How to take better photos with your Android phone

Take your Android photography to the next level with these tips and tricks for capturing masterpieces with your smartphone.

 

Android thieves beware: Google readies kill switch to remote-brick lost devices

A new brick function could provide a more thorough remote wipe than is currently possible on Android.

Court Stop Comcast &Others from Taking Control of the Net

The Internet, for now, shall remain neutral and open…not subject to the whims of profit hungry scumbags like Comcast, Time Warner, AT&T, and Century Link, to name a few. But, don’t worry, those guys will keep trying to increase their control and profits at our expense. Our first story will spell out all the details.

There is other news here also, but I will let you take over from here. -JRC

 

Tech News and Opinions

Court Upholds FCC's Net Neutrality Rules

An appeals court rejected a challenge to the FCC's open Internet order, handing the agency a major victory.

House lawmakers vote to reject ban on tech backdoors, warrantless spying on Americans

The bill would have also prevented the federal government from forcing tech companies to include surveillance "backdoors" in their products.

 

FBI has 411 million photos in its facial recognition system, and a federal watchdog isn't happy

The watchdog said it had "concerns regarding both the effectiveness of the technology" and the "protection of privacy and individual civil liberties.

 

Hidden iOS 10 features Apple didn’t show us

Apple’s first preview of iOS 10 was jam-packed with new features and improvements, but there are plenty that we didn’t get to hear about during the WWDC keynote. Here’s a long list of new things you can look forward to using this fall.

 

Computer Tips and Tricks

Windows 10 tip: Stay organized using virtual desktops

You no longer need third-party software to use virtual desktops, now that this feature is included in Windows 10 as part of Task View. Here's how to create extra desktops and move open apps and windows between them.

 

Adding Features to Windows 10

Microsoft gives users the ability to turn off (or turn on) certain programs, apps and utilities that are not essential. Here is how to do it.

 

Microsoft fixes critical flaws in Windows, IE, Edge, and Office

Patches for more than 40 flaws are covered in 16 security bulletins, six of which rated critical

 

5 awesome Google Keep features you aren't using, but should

On the surface it's a stylish basic note taking app, but dig deeper and it ties into several other Google services, making it easier to get things done.

 

How to tell if you’re infected with malware

Picture this: you start your computer and wait. And wait. And wait some more. When your desktop finally shows its face, things don’t get any better.

 

Mobile Computing

17 Tricks to Using Your iPhone Like a Boss

Did you know you could actually correct Siri's pronunciation?​ Or charge your phone faster with a single button? Good tips here!

 

Tip of the Day: How to Receive AirDrop Files on Your iPhone

With AirDrop, you can wirelessly send and receive photos, videos, websites, locations, and more with nearby devices running on iOS 7 or later.

 

Verizon patches email flaw that exposed user accounts

The critical email flaw is the latest which places Verizon email accounts at risk.

 

Fastest Mobile Networks

PC Magazine traveled to 30 US cities to test data speeds on AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. Find out which network is the best where you live.

 

How to easily root an Android device

Free utility KingoRoot makes it a snap to take total control of just about any Android smartphone. Here's how to use it.