Monthly Archives May 2020

It’s the holiday weekend. Join us for discussions on how you can use tech for you holiday celebrations and preparations. From Grilling to Thrilling. we will also answer you tech questions and have Mike Brennen with MI-Tech News.

Here are some interesting links

http://click.enews.pcmag.com/click/g6xi-2158q4-nc79fa-b6ux47y8/

Amazon has Apple Air Pods – down from $199.00 to $149.00

T Mobile offering iPhone SE for Free – See details at this link

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/connecting-heroes

And yet another streaming service – HBO MAX

https://www.cnet.com/news/hbo-max-discounts-launch-date-free-upgrades-prices-shows-movies-snyder-cut/

For you Windows Users

For those in the Windows Insider Program, the May 2020 Update has been available as a preview release for about a year (again, it was originally referred to as the April 2020 update, but given the coronavirus pandemic, its release was pushed back). 

The final version is expected to roll out to developers on May 12, and to mainstream users starting May 28,

…

Time to take advantage and do Home Automation.

Before the Shelter in Place is lifted, take advantage of the time you are still inside to automate your home more and to keep it comfortable. Some devices, you will find, will be good for the outside as well as the inside of your home. Join Ed, Gary and Cal for informative conversation. Of course your calls and Mike Brennen with MI-Tech News!

In the news:

T Mobile Phasing out Sprint brand.

Home Automation

Multiple ecosystems;

Apple or iOS  – Ecosystem – HomeKit

HomeKit works with Siri who was the first digital assistant with the iPhone 4.

Sites to research HomeKit devices.

https://www.cnet.com/products/apple-HomeKit/compatibility/

https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-HomeKit-compatible-devices

https://www.apple.com/shop/accessories/all-accessories/HomeKit

Android – Ecosystem – Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant

Both are good systems and if I had to choose I would go with Google Assistant because of the greater search features.

Sites to research Android based devices.

https://www.pcmag.com/news/the-best-smart-home-devices-for-2020

https://www.digitaltrends.com/home/best-smart-home-devices/

https://www.androidcentral.com/top-must-have-smart-home-accessories

Also you want to check if your Home Automation device works on the more open ecosystem IFTTT. It is freeware.

https://ifttt.com

Be aware that some devices will work in multiple ecosystems. Check the specs on the device for details.

While it does not change color – The …

Join Gary, Ed abd Cal as we talk about the next level of security for your passwords with 2 Factor authentication using both passwords and biometrics to protect yourself. We will have more WFH – Working from home tips and MI Tech News from Mike Brennen.

Show Notes and Links

With all the activity online, Good time to clean up computer related things

MailBox – Nearing capacity fill with old mail and mounds of spam and ads

Temp Files from Internet Browsing. Clean up those and caches to get better performance

Reboot your computer – When was the last time to get things cleaned up and a fresh start with better performance.

Just clean the computer period. You be surprised how icky it can get when you work from home and get used to snacking and cooking and forget to clean the stuff off your hands before you use the computer. And how about giving those screens a cleaning? Look at the vents on the computer. Is there dust starting to accumulate and block airflow. Especially if you work with a blanket on you lap. Pet Dander.

Need a deal on noise cancelling headphones for work at home. $200.00…

Join Ed and Cal as we talk about ways and things to avoid when trying to get technical support for your tech gear during these Covid-19 times. Also we will be talking with Mike Brennen of Mi-Tech News as well.

Show Notes:

How to get Tech Support in this Quarantined World.

If the tech product is still under warranty or service contract:

                  Make sure if you can to backup any and all data or media (pictures, music) before shipping device.

                  Contact the manufacturer or supplier for instructions.

                  Will most likely be shipping it through mail or carrier.

                  If dealing with local merchant, ask if there is curbside drop off and pickup.

                  Ask how long the process will take. Be patient in these times.

If the tech product is not under warranty or service contract:

                  Make sure if you can to backup any and all data or media (pictures, music) before shipping device.

                  Check with family and associates for whom they trust to repair their tech devices.

                  Verify with BBB and other consumer agencies on the company’s reputation for service before selecting them.

                  Get a written (emailed) estimate of what the charges maybe before hand to make a judgement to …