Tech Senser

Can Google Now Give You Answer Before You Ask The Question?

2013-05-21T19:48:00.001+05:30

If you’re the kind of person who struggles to keep on top of what is going on in your world from day-to-day then a new application could make things a little easier for you.

Google Now has been made available in the App Store and incorporates so many different features related to your world that it alone could encourage you to buy a new iPhone 5.

The application – the latest creation from the web search giant – promises to provide users with “the right information at just the right time”, which certainly sounds like an attractive proposition. You may be wondering just how it will manage to do this and the answer is that it will make use of information drawn from the various Google services you use and current your location.

In theory, this should mean that the more you use it the more informed it becomes about the things that interest you.

Features of the app include a comprehensive area dedicated to helping you manage your day. Within this lies details of the weather, friends birthdays, events you are planning to attend, traffic conditions and alternative routes for your regular journeys, information on flights and hotels and even a summary of how far you have walked or cycled in the past month.

[Image Source: www.droid-life.com]

If all that isn’t impressive enough then you’ll be pleased to hear that its coverage doesn’t stop there. If you’re a sports fan then the latest news and scores about your team can be accessed quickly and easily and if you fancy taking in a movie then simply take a look at what is on and when at your local cinema.

Those with a passion for travel might also find they are attracted to the app as it will offer webpage suggestions and more for a trip you have started looking in to.

Once you’ve arrived at your destination it can continue to help as its Be a local section aims to provide you with everything from details about popular local attractions, public transport and currency conversion rates . And if you’re ever lost for words in another country then the Translation section might help you to put your point across.

It seems likely that Google Now will prove a popular option for those with 4G phones in the UK and provide some real competition for Apple’s Siri, as it also offers voice recognition and aims to give you the answers you want before you have even asked – impressive stuff if it can be successfully achieved.

Users of the iPhone 5 may soon be provided with a software update as details of iOS 7 are expected to emerge at the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference next month.

Faizan Ahmad

About the Author:

This article is posted by Faizan who is the Author and Founder of TechSenser. He is a Professional Blogger from India and a passionate writer about Technology, Gadgets, How-to-Guides, etc. You can connect him on Google+.

The Smartphone Wars of 2013

2013-05-21T19:05:00.000+05:30

The year 2013 will become known as the year of the smartphone wars as major competitors release new mobile devices. Samsung is set to release the Galaxy S4. Google will enter the field with the X Phone.

And Facebook joined forces with HTC to put them on the homepage. This year brings excitement to mobile lovers everywhere.

Samsung — The Galaxy S4

According to TechRadar, the Galaxy S4 improves on some of the basic features that users liked about this phone.

Network: 4G LTE
Display: 5.0-inch full HD Amoled, 1920x1080, 441 ppi
Operating system: Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, with Samsung TouchWiz
Rear camera: 13 megapixel with LED flash 1080p
Special camera features: dual shot/dual recording/dual video call drama shot, sound & shot, 360 photo, cinema photo, eraser, shooting modes

The case has been beefed up with a hardened plastic shell which adds a little to the weight, but it also has a more durable feel. This is one phone for which you will not need a case.

While it may not feature mind-blowing innovations, the Galaxy S4 is a solid phone with a powerful processor and stunning screen resolution. If you own a T-Mobile Galaxy S3, there may be little reason to upgrade. However, the camera and screen may be enough incentive to make the switch.

Google — X Phone is On its Way

With the acquisition of Motorola last year, Google is primed to make its next splash in the smartphone market. According to Northern Voices Online, the original summer release date has slipped into a fall time frame. What we know about the X Phone is based on the current prototype.

The possibilities being reported appeared to include high-end camera and photo software, bendable screens and/or the use of ceramic-based materials. Other rumors being reported include:

Next-generation display, the next generation of Android devices
A very strong casing
Touch panels on the back

New gesture-recognition and imaging technologies

The Google/Motorola collaboration is bound to produce an interesting device. Once it gets further away from the drawing board, there will be more definitive specs with which to compare this phone to the other mobile devices to hit the market this year.

Apple — A Budget iPhone for the Masses?

According to International Business Times, analysts predict that a new iPhone might arrive by this summer and target the budget-conscious market. Some suggest that the less-expensive iPhone will not have Apple's crystal-clear Retina display but will be the same size as a regular iPhone.

Other analysts say the Retina display will be a part of the phone and composite materials will make the phone lighter and easier to manufacture. In support of the "Retina display will be included" theory, Apple has requested that third-party developers make sure their apps work with the Retina display.

It's likely that the resulting iPhone 6 will be of an iPhone 5 redesigned for easier and cheaper manufacturing with few functional changes. With the lower income markets like India and China opening up, Apple will want to make a big splash with as many features as they can pack into the phone.

Facebook — Facebook Comes Home with HTC

Facebook Home puts Facebook in front of smartphone users who use it to connect them with the world. It will come preloaded with the HTC First and will display such core functionality as status updates and newsfeeds on the screen before the phone is unlocked.

This comes out of an effort by Facebook to revamp its apps to make use of the OS features. Prior development was geared toward a "one-size-fits-all" kind of app that would run on all platforms. That resulted in apps that ran OK, but were nothing to shout about.

According to CNN/Money, Facebook is focusing on how to create integrated apps so they won't have to develop a phone to showcase Facebook. The app is available for download in April and could be built in to future HTC devices.

Faizan Ahmad

iPhone vs Android: Which Is More Popular?

2013-05-20T15:04:00.000+05:30

There is definitely a great deal of debate in the arena of smartphones. There is one major question that is circulating throughout this debate: Has the GREAT iPhone dynasty fallen? The subsequent question being:

Has the device with the heritage of knocking the Blackberry off the pinnacle of the mountain finally succumb to something greater?

Well, in honesty, this question cannot be answered with a simple and direct response; simply because personal preference is a major component in making this determination.

Clarification

The first thing that must be done here is to bring some lucidity to the discussion. Android, is not a phone but an operating system, so in the truest and most general sense, it can’t be compared to the iPhone as a device. From a system perspective, the Android operating system would have to be compared to the IOS based system used by Apple in its iPhone line.

The truth is that iPhone would have to be measured against a particular Android Device. So for this comparison, we will use the HTC Droid DNA Android operated device in comparison with the iPhone 5. The HTC Droid DNA is highly comparative to the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S4.

Preference

It is important to understand that preference will play a major role in determining which device is better. For the person that wants a simple and predictable system that can be easily navigated, the iPhone 5 will definitely be more to your liking. The interface is simple and everything is a touch or a slide away.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

For the person who is a little more tech savvy, and has a desire for greater functionality, the Droid operating system will more than likely be more appealing to them. There have been some marketing campaigns in which manufacturers of Android based phones have implied that iPhones are more suitable for older people (50 years of age or older) and that the Android based product is more suitable for tech savvy younger people.

It is not that cut and dry, but it does carry a bit of truth. Whether you are examining the hardware specs, the operating systems, or apps, you will find that the HTC Droid DNA measures up very well to the iPhone 5.

One downside to Android operated phones is that the battery life is short lived, requiring numerous charges during the day. This is because the multitudinous apps that can be downloaded draw on the battery. You can download a number of applications that will allow you to manage your battery consumption.

The Android based Droid DNA allows you to download an almost infinite number of apps, the majority of which are free. There are apps for apps. You are also able to customize your phone to make it uniquely yours, in function, appearance, and performance.

With the iPhone 5, you know what you are getting and the system has proven to be dependable over the years, but the functionality of the phone is limited in comparison to the Android based devices.
Understanding what you want and need in a phone will make it easy to determine which of these devices best suits you. Ultimately, you will determine which one is best.

Louis Rossmann

About the Guest Author:

Louis Rossmann is a straight shooting tech guy who specializes in repair and LCD replacement. Contact him through his Rossman Group website.

How to Mitigate Possible Cloud Computing Risks

2013-05-20T13:57:00.001+05:30

Cloud computing is a bit of a double edged sword. On the one hand, if you remove data from being stored only on the device you're using, then you make it so that you can focus on processing on that device, and simply access data on the cloud.

But on the other hand, storing everything on the cloud and processing it there have had some risks associated with it involving information exposure among others. But, if you keep a few tips in mind, you'll substantially reduce those risks and the cloud will smile upon you.

Reduce the Cloud Computing Risks

Limit Access

If you're responsible for information from a client, make sure that only the people who really need to use the data have access to the account. That way, even if mobile devices get lost, as long as no one saves the passwords automatically, no data will actually be exposed that way, and you won't get in trouble due to any NDAs that you signed.

Use Data Protection Services

There are many companies online, like Norton All in one Security Software for example, that offer services for keeping your data secure and backed up additionally, there are many different services such as CipherCloud, for one, that will allow you to consolidate all of your different clouds such as in Gmail, Microsoft Office 365, and so on under one secure umbrella.

When you have many different clouds to work with, it can get confusing and it may be easy to make a mistake that threatens your security. After all, the ability to access your files from anywhere is problematic in that any hacker who gets your account info can do the same without needing to be physically at your computer.

Invest in Remote Wipe Apps

There are many of these on the market, some are even free. An example is Lookout. By adding an app to any mobile phones that have sensitive information either on them, or with potential access to the cloud on them, you can severely mitigate your risk of having sensitive information get out.

This is a way to get the cloud to work for you, so to speak. These apps can let you completely wipe all data on a mobile phone even after it's been lost or stolen. That way, thieves can't get access to your sensitive info on the cloud.

Apps like Lookout will also often allow you to locate the phone remotely after locking it so that no one who doesn't know the password can access it. Assuming that our hypothetical thieves don't spike the phone off of the road when they discover they can't use it, you'll be able to track where it is via the on board GPS unit and a remote Web application.

In this way, you can keep your cloud data secure, and also recover any lost or stolen mobile units in a secure state no matter what.

By employing smart techniques to keep your risk low, you'll ensure that the benefits of mobile computing don't have any real downsides at all.

Lindsey Mcmahon

About the Guest Author:

This is a guest post by Lindsey Mcmahon. She likes to travel, play and read in her free time. Her interests are entertainment, television and tech, but she is constantly extending her field of view to incorporate interesting news suggested to her by her readers.

Useful Tips You Should Remember When Looking for a Web Design Company

2013-05-19T15:51:00.002+05:30

It is not hard to see just how important having an effective web design is for your business. Through effective web development, you can make a connection with your potential and real customers.

Through your website, you can disseminate information about your products and services. With your website, you can represent yourself in the online world. But all these benefits can only be enjoyed if you have the right web design company working by your side.

It is vital that you know how to choose the right web design company. Choosing the right one will ensure continued progress of your business. Choosing the wrong one will poorly represent your company and may stunt the growth of your business. For this reason, read the following tips on how to choose the right web design company.

Web design companies such as RDF Group will give you the means to improve your business
Image attributed to

Tips on how to choose the right web design company

Evaluate their expertise

First, visit their website. Their website should speak for itself. You cannot expect a web design company to provide you with a top-notch service if their own website is not that impressive, right?
After getting a glimpse of what they can do, ask them to show you some portfolios and samples of previous projects. Inquire if they have handled cases similar to yours.

If they have, then they are already familiar with your industry, which is a plus for them. In addition to this, you can find out their expertise by checking out their credentials, track records, accomplishments, and educational background.

[Image Credite: Wikimedia BWDCanada]

Ask for referrals

If you are not too familiar with computer jargon and technical terms, you might want to bring along a colleague or friend who is an expert on this topic. You can also ask for referrals from trusted sources.

They can give you some practical advice and refer you to a dependable web design company such as the RDF Group. Since they have experience working with a particular company, you can be sure that you are being given accurate information.

Evaluate their experience

In general, those who have been in existence longer have a better chance of improving themselves. They have been give ample time to sharpen the rough edges of their services. So, if given the choice between an experienced company and a starting company, it may wiser to go for the latter.

But, of course, this general rule should be used with discretion. Some companies may have been around for quite some time but never had the chance to improve themselves.

Ask as many questions as possible

Do not be afraid to ask questions. This is one way for you to determine if they are the right company or not.

Sometimes merely talking to them will give you a general idea about whether they are really experts in their field or just pretending to be. While talking to them, look out for some red flags such as excessive promises that seem unrealistic, unclear procedures, concerns about payment, not being transparent, and others.

These are some of the tips that you should remember when looking for a web design company. Remember to make a careful and wise choice as this will greatly affect the welfare of your business.

Faizan Ahmad

Are We Obsessed With Buying New Stuff?

2013-05-19T15:17:00.000+05:30

Today's culture is arguably very commercialized. Commercialization, of course, revolves around the consumption of goods. Yet you can have too much of anything. With this in mind, are we becoming obsessed with buying new stuff?

To answer this question, it’s important to break it down into key areas. First of all, we can address how much new stuff we buy, including whether it’s needed.

Likewise, one should also look at what happens to the old stuff; are we buying to add to a collection, for instance? Lastly, using both of these, one can more easily make out the rate of consumption and see how it relates to how much new items we buy.

Buying New

It's safe to say that we often buy plenty of new things. Adverts, on all forms of media, continue to sell us new items and convince us that we need them. This can further be broken down into two prime reasons and areas of thought. Firstly, is the argument that advertisements, and thus the companies behind the products, continue to encourage our spending sprees on new items.

Secondly, however, is the argument that this can't happen unless we are willing. We buy new products because we want to. When we have money spare, it’s easy to look at something new. Yet it’s not always necessary. From clothes to gadgets, such as phones and consoles, we buy countless items that don't serve any new purpose but we want for new features or because it’s the most recent model/release.

Out With The Old

When this happens, what do we do with the old stuff? A lot of the time, it’s safe to say we don't do anything; it just sits there. This is because our need and obsessions to buy new stuff seems to overpower any of form of logic.

We buy new things, but we don't throw out the old, even when it’s getting replaced. Is this laziness or an additional need to collect personal possessions? Combined with our obsession with buying new stuff, one could argue a very materialistic way of life.

This isn't because we can't get rid of our unwanted goods either. In fact, in this day and age it’s not hard to sell stuff for free using the internet so it’s not as if the average shopper has any difficulty selling on their goods. Selling on, of course, would yield money, something that is certainly useful when buying more new things.

Rate Of Consumption

From all of this, one can argue that, yes, we are obsessed with buying new stuff. In fact, it seems as if our rate of consumption overpowers anything else. We buy new items, even when the old ones remain in the home and are perfectly usable.

Of course, this is fine for someone who can afford it, but it can lead to serious spending and debts if you're not careful; another reason why it might help to sell the stuff you simply don't need any more.

Jack Edmonds

About the Guest Author:

Jack Edmonds is a money and lifestyle writer and frequent blogger. He likes to talk about all manner of day to day topics, from cutting costs, how to sell stuff for free online, and various other financial influences in typical life.

Make Your Domain a Website with Domain Hosting

2013-05-18T08:49:00.002+05:30

Many people want to create a website, but don't know anything about domain hosting. You can't just buy a domain name and expect that to do the trick. It does take some effort to get your website up and going, but it is very doable. All you have to do is follow a few simple steps. Before you know it your website will be up and running. Then all of your worries will be gone with the wind.

The first step to getting your website secured is registering your domain name. There are many different services that provide domain registration services. You'll just have to do a little research to ensure you are getting the best price possible.

Also, without jumping too far ahead of yourself, look for a web host that offers deals on domain and hosting packages. Before all is said and done you will need hosting in order for your website to be active. Once you have your domain secured, you can move on to the next step.

The next step in getting your website up and running is obtaining domain hosting. Once you have your domain, you need hosting to actually create your website. Otherwise, all you have is a domain name. There are many different deals out there for hosts, you just have to find them. Your best resource to find the deals that will benefit you is Google.

Just search for hosting deals or hosting coupon codes. However, don't just settle for the cheapest deal you can find. Instead, do some research on the web hosts you are considering before finalizing your decision. You want to ensure the web host you choose has all of the features you want and need for your website.

[Image Credits: www.bangalore.olx.in]

Lastly, you will need to design your website. How you design your website is up to you. Many people put their website on a platform of their choosing, such as WordPress. It's up to you to decide what option is right for you. Many hosts also offer automated installation of content management systems. With these, it makes it very simple for you to design your website.

However, if you have a little extra money and this is a website you truly want taken seriously you may want to consider hiring a professional web designer. This will ensure that your website will look professional, which will give it the attention it deserves.

As you can see, getting your website up and going is not that difficult. You just have to complete three easy steps. It really is that simple. The hardest part about a website is probably naming it and deciding how you want it to look.

Aside from that, the rest is rather simple. It's pretty much a click and go process. So, follow the simple steps and get your website online. Purchase your domain name, obtain domain hosting, and design. Once those steps are complete, you can publish your website for the World Wide Web to see.

Guest Post

About the Guest Post:

Vodien is a Singapore-based web host that provides domain hosting and small business web hosting. Host your website with the leading service provider in Asia.

Things That You Do Wrong With Instagram

2013-05-18T08:00:00.001+05:30

Last year, Instagram became a big trend and the answer to this is quite obvious. Nowadays, people tend to notice so many things everywhere with an ultimate goal of sharing it with their friends.

With the help of Instagram, simple pictures can be converted into more attractive images that normal camera phones cannot do. In line with this, there are instances when this can become annoying and abusive.

In order to avoid being bashed or bullied for this, here are some things that you should avoid:

Things You Should Avoid to Get Best from Instagram

What You Eat

Food is one of the top categories used in Instagram that people love to share. However, it is advised to ensure that the location is well-lighted, to produce a high quality image can be easily distinguished; otherwise, it will just look like a mess on the plate. If you want to have a picture of the food you eat, make sure to take a picture before and not after eating up to the last bite.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

This is all about you, wanting to take a picture of yourself while no one is available to take it for you. Normally, this is done when wearing a new dress, after having a new hairdo, or while waiting for your date. Being alone will then prompt you to take your own picture with the help of a mirror.

Well, this is just fine but what’s annoying is the fact that you want to shout to the whole world how good looking you are. It is fine to post some of your self-portrait, but please do not make it a daily habit.

Regular Updates

It is fine to post some updates about yourself every now and then. However, make sure not to flood the Instagram site with some useless updates. Tease us a little by leaving some for the imagination. Well, you can take one or two pictures about your date, but that would be enough. Remember, it will be easier for stalkers to find you with this habit.

Being a Pet Lover

We get it; you love your pet so much. Whether it is a cat, dog, bird or even a gorilla, it can really be annoying to take hundreds of pictures. Just choose some special moments with your pet that are memorable and that is what your followers would love to see. Remember not to post pictures of your pet doing terrible things, which can be embarrassing for both of you.

If you are a responsible Instagram user, always consider what your followers may think. Always keep your friends happy and interested with your posts. Instagram is a social media app that is supposed to give fun and enjoyment, so don’t ruin it. Above all, use it responsibly and wisely.

Austin Richard

About the Guest Author:

Austin Richard is an IT instructor from Passcertification.com. He has passed 70-484 exam questions. Take benefit of 156-315.75 exam questions material efficiently and get guaranteed success. Check out free demo of all certifications Exam.

Steps Involved In Adding Facebook Pages In A Website Builder

2013-05-17T20:53:00.000+05:30

Incorporating business websites with social media has become a very important business strategy in the recent years. Business holders find social media to be an important tool when it comes to propelling their business forward while aptly catering to the needs of the target audience.

But the greater question plaguing the minds of the business owners is “how to accomplish this tedious task in an effective manner? Few businesses have started their own business pages in Facebook to create their niche and attract audience with the social site.

On the contrary, businesses can also add their Facebook pages with their main websites through web builders, so that their clients would have a direct link to their Facebook pages right from the home website.

Adding Facebook pages with the website builders:

Advantages

With the help of website builders, people can add their Facebook pages directly on their websites and use it as a promotional tool.
It is important to activate a Facebook page and an account for the particular business.
Once the basic page is set up for Facebook, the rest of the pages can be completed with the help of a page designer found within the template of the website builder.

Steps involved in activating Facebook pages

The first step is to open up a ‘create page’ session in Facebook. It gives various templates and options on the type of business page to be created.
The appropriate page needs to be selected and the fields required in it need to be completed.
The user has to choose between two options here: either they have to opt for ‘having a FB account already’ and provide the login and password details or opt create a fresh page by completing the login details.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

Steps involved in adding Facebook pages

The first step is to log in with the website builder’s account, with a fresh registration.
Select the option for designing the web pages.
Click on the pages and then select ‘create a Facebook page’
Choose the option ‘integrate with Facebook account.’
The final step is to click on the icon for ‘connect to Facebook’ to display the contents of the Facebook account.
The page for logging into Facebook opens here requesting permission to access the details.
Once you allow the screen to open, the name of the app gets displayed.

The rest of the steps are simple. From the select Facebook page menu, the secure Facebook page needs to be selected. Enter the name on the tab field, enter a distinct name for the Facebook profile and select the audience the website will be catering to, along with the age group preferences.

The last step is to add the page tab and progress with publishing the website, after returning to the Page Designer and before publishing the site.

Steps involved in publishing the website

Login in to the account manager account and click on Launch.
Select the publish site option and agree to the terms and conditions.
It may be necessary to create a backup for the website before publishing it.

Choose publish all; you have options to choose between publishing the entire website, choosing which part to publish, or publish only certain changes in the webpage.

Luke Casey

About the Guest Author:

Today's guest post is submitted by Luke Casey. He is a tech enthusiast who owns a couple of self designed blogs with the help of IM creator.

Why Malware Is A Serious Threat To Your PC

2013-05-17T09:18:00.000+05:30

The earliest computer viruses were distributed via floppy discs and were generally annoying rather than harmful. But with the rise of the Internet and superfast broadband connections it’s easier than ever for viruses and other malware to spread.

Their nature has changed too and they’re often part of wider criminal activity.
There are several different types of malware, so let’s take a look at the most common variants and the nature of the threat they present.

Viruses

In their early days viruses tended to be created by amateurs and would be aimed at causing irritation (such as by displaying messages on the screen or deleting files) rather than anything more dangerous. But with the rise of the Internet it’s become possible for viruses to have criminal intent.

Modern viruses will try to snoop on your key strokes to steal login passwords or your credit card and bank details. The way they’re distributed has changed too. In the past you had to click on a file attached to an email in order to get infected.

Whilst this still happens, you’re now more likely to pick up a “drive-by” infection by visiting a booby-trapped website. Don’t think that you have to frequent the darker corners of the Internet to be caught out in this way either, malware can often lurk in hijacked adverts or links even on legitimate, big name sites.

Trojans

Named after the Trojan Horse of classical myth, a Trojan virus aims to take control of your PC. Once it’s succeeded in doing so it may open the door for the installation of other malware aimed at stealing your personal details.

It may also turn your PC into part of a remotely controlled “botnet”. This is a collection of machines, known as “zombies”, which can be manipulated by the Trojan’s creators and used to send out spam emails or take part in denial of service attacks against websites.

[Image Credits:topnews.ae]

Spyware

As its name suggests, spyware is intended to snoop on your activities. Typically it will watch the websites that you visit and use the information gathered to target you with advertising or pop-up messages.

Although it’s sometimes seen as a lesser threat, spyware can be just as bad as other types of malware. It can slow down your system, it may also hijack your Web browser, redirecting searches to sites where the spyware creators earn money from a pay-per-click scheme.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a relatively new phenomenon. It comes in the form of software that will lock you out of your PC and then attempt to get you to pay in order to get it released. It will usually be in the form of a fake anti-virus program that will claim your PC is infected or as a “fine” claiming you’ve visited illegal websites.

Needless to say, in either case, the last thing you should do is pay up. Even if your machine does get unlocked as a result you’ll probably end up with more malware. Ransomware is hard to remove and you’ll probably need the help of a computer repair specialist in order to get rid of it.

Rootkits

A rootkit is a particular type of virus that hides itself deep within the system. It’s designed to hide the activity of processes from normal methods of detection. It can thus prevent an anti-virus program from seeing the signature of a virus or Trojan. Rootkits generally need administrator access in order to install and so will use social engineering techniques to trick you into loading them.

All of this may seem scary but if you have a good anti-virus program installed and keep both it and your operating system up to date you should be safe.

Jann Webb

About the Guest Author:

Jann Webb is a freelance writer and PC geek with long experience of computer repair and virus removal.

Windows 8 Update May Permit Users To Skip Metro Start Screen

2013-05-16T13:57:00.002+05:30

Is Microsoft finally giving in to the requests of Windows 8 users to allow them to boot straight to the traditional desktop? It seems that this is likely going to happen.

The Verge cited Microsoft sources familiar with the company’s plans saying that the upcoming refresh on Windows 8 (touted as Windows Blue or Windows 8.1) will enable users to skip the tile-based interface and boot their devices straight to the traditional desktop.

The claim was also backed by a leaked build of Windows Blue. It shows that the boot-to-desktop option was actually disabled by default and a toggle or switch that will enable it is not available in the OS’s settings panel.

However, as the code is present, many believe that Microsoft might be considering letting users skip the metro-style start menu, though it has not decided whether to implement it on Blue’s release or not.

Back to basics?

It could be remembered that Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 8 which has a tiled interface, has received lukewarm reception. In fact, since its release, it has been receiving the same complaint from users–the OS will not allow them to easily boot directly into the traditional desktop.

As such, many (specifically those who are using non-touchscreen devices) are forced to find ways to circumvent the metro-style menu to switch back to the old UI.

If the rumors were true, the ability to boot back to the traditional desktop will be a huge relief for people who still rely on keyboard-mouse configurations as they will not have to spend most of their time tinkering around to find ways to get a hold of the old UI.

Other reported updates

Aside from the reported inclusion of the boot-to-desktop option, rumors are also swirling that Microsoft may also bring back the Start button on the update. Likewise, the leaked builds of Blue have also reportedly shown that it may allow users to resize the live tiles into smaller icons and split the screen between two different apps.

Of course, Microsoft will not confirm if such changes will be implemented. As ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley pointed out, people will probably have a better indication of the refresh if more solid Blue previews are leaked or once the rumored public version of Blue’s preview goes live on June.

If Microsoft does end up doing the reported tweaks in its Windows 8 update, it will not be the first time that the tech giant has yielded to customer dissatisfaction and changed the Windows UI.

For those who remember the Windows Aero Visuals that was incorporated during the release of Windows Vista back in 2007, many users became particularly vocal about their dislike toward the said glass-like UI, believing that it is too gimmicky.

Such unwelcoming stance forced Microsoft to revise the Aero Visuals when they incorporated it in the 2009 release of Windows 7 and ultimately do away with it on the final release of Windows 8.

Do you think Microsoft will add the rumored changes in Windows 8’s upcoming update?

Ericka

About the Guest Author:

This article was penned by Ericka, a freelance writer and a regular contributor for computer repair Edinburgh specialist, PC Doctor.

A Mobile Phone Plus A Great Gaming Deal

2013-05-16T09:17:00.001+05:30

You need a new mobile phone but the kids are complaining that they need a new Xbox 360? That shouldn't be a problem, right? There's probably enough money for both of them.

But one of the pleasures of mobile phone shopping right now is the pure number of mobile contracts with free gifts. Because mobile service operators are so anxious to get new customers they're offering some absolutely incredible deals. By shopping online you not only get steeply discounted prices on new hand sets and contracts, but you can also get some great free gifts.

Today we're looking at deals that will get you a mobile phone plus a free Xbox 360 250 GB edition complete with a Kinect controller system. So, if you want a new phone and the kids want an Xbox 360 (or you want an Xbox 360...) check out the sweet deals below to get one for free...

On the Three Network...

Three is offering the free Xbox 360 with Kinect and a free Sony Xperia U in black. The Xperia U is at the top end of Sony's Xperia line and is pretty feature packed for a free hand set. The contract gets you 500 cross network calling minutes as well as 5000 text messages and unlimited mobile internet browsing. It's a standard twenty four month contract that will cost you £38 per month.

On the Orange Network...

If you're looking for a contract that's a little cheaper, then this Orange deal should be right up your alley. They're offering the Xbox 360 plus Kinect along with a Samsung Galaxy Y hand set. The Galaxy Y is a great little phone that's more than capable of doing everything that a good mobile should do.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

The contract is for 200 cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging, 750 MB of mobile internet data plus free BT Openzone WiFi. On a twenty four month contract this will set you back just £26 a month.

Also on the Orange Network...

Looking for a Windows phone? Not a problem. This Orange contract offers the free Xbox 360 and Kinect plus a free Nokia Lumia 800. The Lumia 800 is a great Windows device from reputed maker Nokia, and is a truly great phone.

The contract includes unlimited cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging, a massive 1 GB of mobile internet browsing and free BT Openzone WiFi. It's a standard twenty four month contract that will cost you £36 per month.

On the Vodafone Network...

If you prefer to go with Vodafone, they've got the cheapest deal we've seen. They give away the free Xbox 360 and Kinect along with the Nokia 100. The Nokia 100 isn't as feature packed as most smart phones, but it is a dependable and robust hand set.

The contract includes 100 cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging, 100 MB of mobile internet usage and 2 GB of BT Openzone WiFi. On a twenty four month contract this will cost you a mere £25 a month, which isn't bad at all.

Phil Turner

About the Guest Author:

Phil Turner was amazed when he found these online offers for the entire family. He thinks that if you are looking for a mobile contracts with free gifts you have a lot of offers to choose from.

Advertising In Android Apps

2013-05-15T14:25:00.000+05:30

Free things are clearly ideal in any situation. If you had the choice of paying for something and not paying for something but still receiving it, you’d choose the latter option every time.

When it comes to Android apps, it’s clear that free apps are a veritable hot ticket. People are more willing to download something for free than they would be to actually fork over any money for it.

With the plethora of free apps in app marketplaces for the Android, there is almost an expectation that apps will come completely free of charge. But, as developers know, building an app costs money, and the reality is that charging money for the app is one of the few ways of getting a return on an investment.

A General Overview of Advertising with Android Apps.

Expectations:

There is this natural break between most end users and the developers in that it’s becoming too easy to expect Android apps to be free. It’s also true that many apps (particular games) don’t require any monetary investment whatsoever. So, where exactly does this leave developers in this equation?

Naturally, if their goals are purely egalitarian, then they don’t really have to worry about the financial aspect of their apps. In all honesty, though, most Android app developers aren’t making apps primarily to fulfill some creative need.

That leaves only a few options if charging for the app happens to become unrealistic. Even marked price reductions might not be enough to entice the stingiest of Android users. So, advertising in one of its many forms becomes the natural option for many developers.

It often doesn’t require any actual input from the users and is something that can still make the app profitable. In fact, many free Android apps have still been able to turn a considerable profit despite the obvious limitations on the front end.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

Information Sharing:

There is, however, a tricky, ethical line that most developers are wary of crossing. If you want to monetize your customers, sometimes it’s necessary to divulge some of their information to third-party advertisers. While this helps them receive targeted ads, it may be seen as an invasion of privacy. Of course, some ads don’t have to play that tricky political game.

It’s relatively simple to embed a few non-targeted ads into your app to maximize the profits that you gain. You can also add a feature that allows you to take the ads away for a price. This obviously increases potential revenue and makes the user happy.

The important thing is for consumers to start realizing that there is no such thing as a free app. If time and money go into the creation of the app, some of that is going to need to be “refunded,” so to speak. In some cases, the only way to get that job done is with a little bit of mobile advertising.

Not everyone knows exactly how to make money from Android apps, and it’s different for literally every product on the market. Some companies can get by with very traditional forms of marketing and selling, while others need to use advertising.

Martin Blackman

About the Guest Author:

Martin Blackman is an Android app developer from Australia. He has created more than 20 apps and offers advice on the Android app market.

Why Use Stock Control Software

2013-05-15T13:57:00.001+05:30

Many businesses today ask whether investing in stock control software is practical and would be worth it in the long run. Stock control software simplifies the monitoring and tracking of product supply levels and does away with time-consuming, manual inventory management.

Yet despite the perceived benefits of stock control software, some small and mid-sized businesses are still reluctant to avail of one, thinking that it might not work to its maximum capacity and become too costly.

To help you decide if stock control software is right for you, we’ve outlined several reasons why your company should automate your stock control system:

1. Know stock levels and quantity real time

If you have field sales agents, confirming and finalising clients’ orders may take a while because they need to check with the main office first whether the specific product is in stock or not. With stock control software, you can do away with this tedious process since you and your staff can view inventory stock levels real time. This makes it easier for you to check which products should be restocked or replaced at the right quantity and time.

2. Meet customer demand

Knowing exactly what and how many products are available on the shelves or your warehouse will help you serve customers better. Stock control software will automatically signal if your stocks start to run low so you can easily contact your supplier or manufacturer to avoid product shortage or delays in delivery. You don’t want to disappoint or lose customers by saying you don’t have current stocks of the product they want to order.

[Image Credits: www.stockcontrolsoftware.net/]

3. Prevent stocks from getting damaged

Without proper inventory management, businesses face the risk of getting their products damaged or spoiled if they are stored in their warehouse for too long or if new stocks are ordered even before the previous ones have been disposed. Stock control software will help you determine which supplies have been sitting on your shelves or stockroom for a while so you can despatch them or sell them quickly; however, this would depend on the products you are selling.

4. Save time and money

Manual stock control, such as those that use Excel spreadsheets or paper-based systems, can be very inefficient and prone to error. This would cost your business a lot of money in the long run. Using stock control software will streamline your inventory management and increase business efficiency since you or your staff will spend less time keying in product information or ensuring they are listed accurately.

All the information you need is updated and available real time so you can focus on other activities to run your business better.

5. Get comprehensive reports regularly

Stock control software can help you produce comprehensive reports on product sales. Knowing what products have or haven’t sold well will allow you to make certain adjustments and develop strategies to either market a product better or completely discontinue sales.

Stock control software is attracting wholesalers and retailers of any industry today because of the convenience and efficiency it delivers. If you want to free yourself from all the hassle of manual systems, make the switch to automated stock control now. But remember, like any business decision, you must base your choice of stock control software on its quality, value for money, and features to fully enjoy its benefits.

Debra Wright

About the Guest Author:

Debra Wright blogs about a plethora of topics including stock control software and other fields. Wright considers Jobsync as one of the leading sales software.

How About A Free Blackberry Playbook?

2013-05-14T20:43:00.004+05:30

One of the greatest things about getting a new cell phone nowadays is the number of mobile contracts with free gifts. As operators angle to get new customers, they're offering bigger and better deals all the time.

By shopping online, you not only save money on the price of your new phone, but you can also get some pretty sweet deals as well. Today we're looking at deals that offer you a free Blackberry Playbook, a light, powerful tablet computer that will let you take care of all your business needs on the go.

If you'd like to get one of these devices for free, all you need to do is to take advantage of one of the great deals below....

With Orange...

Orange has a fantastic deal right now where you can get a 64 GB Blackberry Playbook, plus the brand new Blackberry Z10 phone, which is the ideal match in our opinion. The hand set costs just a tenner with this deal, and your contract includes 900 cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging, 1 GB of internet data browsing and free BT Openzone WiFi. All of this costs just £41 per month on a twenty four month contract.

With T-Mobile...

If the Orange deal is a little high end for you, then check out this great deal from T-Mobile. Your Blackberry Playbook comes with a Blackberry Curve 9320 for free. Plus your contract includes 300 cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging, 250 MB of internet browsing. All of this is just £21 per month on a twenty four month contract.

[Image Licensed Under Attribution]

With Three...

If Blackberry phones aren't your thing, but you still want the 64 GB Blackberry Playbook, you can get one for free with Three, along with a free Samsung Galaxy S III. The contract includes 500 cross network calling minutes, 5000 text messages, and unlimited internet browsing. It costs a mere £36 a month on a twenty four month contract.

With O2...

Don't want a Blackberry hand set, but the Three contract is a little expensive for you? Not to worry, O2 have the deal for you. Your Blackberry Playbook comes with a Samsung Galaxy S III Mini in blue, all for free.

Plus the contract includes 300 cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging, 100 MB of mobile internet browsing and Priority Moments (times when you can make calls for cheaper rates). On a twenty four month contract it's going to cost you just £29 a month.

With T-Mobile...

If you're looking for a cheap contract, then T-Mobile has the offer for you. A Blackberry Playbook plus a Samsung Galaxy Pocket for free. Then your contract includes 100 cross network calling minutes, unlimited text messaging and 250 MB of mobile internet browsing.

It's a twenty four month contract, and will set you back only £15.50 per month, which is a great deal. It's by far the cheapest deal available, and even better, the contract offers a lot of calling, messaging and data for a very low price.

Phil Turner

About the Guest Author:

Phil Turner recommends searching for offers that meet your standards and signing mobile contracts with free gifts if you can find them.

Is Google's Entry Into The Smartphone Market The Next Step To World Domination?

2013-05-14T09:07:00.001+05:30

Google has done incredibly well in the search market; And that’s an understatement. The market share they’ve achieved has been simply astonishing.

The brand has managed to develop consumer loyalty at a level rarely seen in any other industry. Simplicity, functionality, and performance have been the keys to their success in the search market.

With Google now taking a very significant interest in the smartphone market other manufacturers are sure to be looking over their shoulders. It must be a nervy time in the Nokia, Samsung, Apple, Blackberry, Sony and HTC boardrooms.

Google and Android

The Android operating platform has taken a hold of much of the smartphone market. Ever since HTC delivered the first Android platform phone to the market, the technical people of the world have been drawn to the Google operating system.

There is little doubt that, for many, Android is the best operating system. It is open to development by manufacturers and has an application base of over 700,000. It is usable and functional, and of course simple.

Now The Google Nexus 4 and Motorola

The Google Nexus 4 is the latest entrance into the smartphone market by Google. The phone has been seen as a revolution. The quad-core processor is super fast. The screen is super sensitive. And the price is super low.

[Image Credits: telegraph.co.uk]

The phone comes in at £239, almost half as much as the competition but matching them on specifications. Google has laid its cards on the table and said, “We will dominate this market”.
Google have also taken over Motorola and so have a phone manufacture as part of their arsenal for battle in the industry. They have already dug themselves in pretty deeply.

The Smartphone Landscape

The smartphone market is one that many technology companies are coveting.  LG, the partner for Google in this terrific handset, are a company that have tried to break in to the market after success in other domains but failed to make much headway.

Apple have moved in since 2007 and had great success with their iPhone.  Microsoft are a late entrant with their operating system ,but no doubt later will be looking to run the phones themselves.
With such a huge consumer base, the smartphone market is a great way to increase brand loyalty and develop cross-selling opportunities.

For Google, it made sense to enter the market and their performance so far in the sector suggests that they may well win the battle.  Will Apple and Samsung be relegated to forgotten parts of the history of mobile phones?

If Google can dominate the smartphone market in years to come, then they will have two of the most important arenas in the world.  They will have control of search, and they will have control of mobile.  With these two, Google will surely be set for world domination as they will control the hearts and the minds of the consumer population.

Phil Turner

About the Guest Author:

Phil Turner has lived through the history of mobile phones, including the development of Internet phones by Blackberry and the first smartphone by Apple. It has been a fascinating time.

Handy Tips to Get Higher Search Engine Rankings

2013-05-14T08:43:00.000+05:30

Whenever we develop and upload a website, one of the things that we need to put our extra focus on is the PR of our websites, and this is mainly because of the fact that websites that have a higher PR are the ones that also rank higher in search engine, hence encounter more traffic than usual.

Therefore if you are willing to do well in your online business, then it is really very important that you should work for the PR of your website.

Following are some of the methods via which one is able to get high PR rankings in a very short span of time:

Tips to Get High Search Engine Rankings

Posting content regularly:

Google loves new and fresh content especially when it is spam free. After the Google Panda update, now it has become compulsory for you to deliver the content that is spam free and does not exceed the maximum percentage of keyword limit assigned by Google.

If you post your content on regular basis then there are more chances that it would not only get higher PR in the shortest interval of time, but it would also come in higher search engine rankings.

Content should be free from Plagiarism:

That’s the rule that is never going to change in any way; therefore it is important for you to deliver fresh, spam free and original content. Delivering plagiarized content is surely not an option, else you are going to suffer big time when it comes to plagiarized content, as Google Penguin is not going to forgive you for that!

[Image Credits: searchbarmarketing.com]

Design should be SEO friendly:

Besides everything else, you also need to make sure that the design of your website is also SEO friendly. Designing and development method of a website also plays a vital role when it comes to its PR and search engine rankings. Following are the things that should be taken under consideration when designing an SEO friendly website:

• Google does not prefer Ajax that much.
• Website should have a better loading time.
• Website should have Social buttons for easy sharing over major social sites.
• Design should be Crawler friendly.

Link building with social networks:

PR and search engine rankings largely rely on link building. It is really very important for you to get some of the high PR back links for your website in order to get good PR. But now the methods of link building have dynamically changed after the Penguin Algorithm.

Google Penguin has surely changed things dynamically, as if you are willing to do good in search engines, then it is important for you to create pages / accounts over social networking websites in order to publicize about your website, product or services. Social networks are surely known to be the best method of earning some of the high PR back links.

Forum postings:

Forums are also known to be an essential source for getting high PR back links that contributes to masses when it comes to PR of your main site. Even after Google’s Panda and Penguin update, Forums have retained its significance. So, if you are really willing to get some quick back links and high traffic on your website than Forum postings is the best option for you.

Maria Bennett

About the Guest Author:

Maria Bennett is a guest blogger for www.nextdayflyers.com an online printing company where you can order custom postcard printing, brochures and more for your small business. Their prices are great and quality is top-notch.

Sony Phone Deals On The 3 Network

2013-05-13T08:20:00.000+05:30

Sony handsets (often referred to as Sony Ericsson) are widely available with a number of mobile phone service providers but the 3 phone deals for Sony handsets are perfect for a wide range of users.

Xperia Z

The Xperia Z, for example, is one of the brand’s top handsets and will cost you an upfront fee for the phone itself as well as an average monthly contract of £35 but the benefits from this particular phone are at the high end of the smartphone market. The handset comes in both black and white.

Xperia T

Alternatively you can opt for the Xperia T and the upfront cost of this handset ranges from £29 to £109, depending upon the contract that you choose. This is quickly becoming one of the most popular handsets in the 3 phone deals range and most users who have tried the phone have not been disappointed.

Xperia J

The Sony Xperia J, however, is available free of charge and at a much lower monthly contract cost, despite the fact that these two handsets are very similar in looks and features. This one is definitely worth considering for those who are on a lower budget.

Sony Ericsson Xperia arc S

If you want a wide choice of monthly contract options there is the Sony Ericsson Xperia arc S. These currently start at £17 and go up to £32 but you may have to pay a fee for the handset, depending upon which one you choose.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

The Sony Xperia P

The Sony Xperia P is a similar type of deal where you can choose different monthly costs and choose to pay something upfront for the handset.

Xperia S

For a free handset at the top end of the range consider the Xperia S. The average contract cost is £31 and the handset is very similar in design to others in the same range. You can make the most of features such as customisable home pages, a great camera and a screen which offers a very clear and sharp image.

All in All

The Xperia range has certainly become one to watch although those considering 3 phone deals might get a little confused thanks to the names being very similar. It is also confusing because many of the handsets in the range have similar features.

However, the one you choose is sure to have all the advantages that you are looking for including good quality camera, excellent web browsing and instant access to all your favourite websites such as social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook.

The storage on the handsets is also good and can be expanded with microSD for those who want more space for their music collection.

Over to You

Take some time to figure out which of the Sony handsets has what you need and then check out the 3 phone deals online and in store. This will make it easier to decide which of the contracts is for you. Consider a longer contract to get a lower price and look at the handsets that you can get free of charge first as these are usually just as good as those you need to pay for.

Phil Turner

About the Guest Author:

Phil Turner has bought all his family Three mobile phones because he thinks the deals are good.

A Future without Internet

2013-05-13T07:09:00.001+05:30

Take a look at the phone in your hand and try to imagine that the only thing it could do was send text messages and make phone calls. What if there were no smartphones, no Google, and gasp no email.

You get a call from an important client and they just received a notice that must be addressed that day, but you're out of town without access to a fax machine. Perhaps you have a need to research a topic for school or work, but there is no search engine to find the information you need quickly.

Suddenly you find yourself trapped between rows and rows of bookshelves in the local library looking for reference material that is both thorough and recent.

Back to the Future?

Millions of Americans have gone away from long and complicated tax forms in favor of e-filing through Turbo Tax or similar services. Many employers and employees have gone away from the traditional paper payroll checks in favor of direct deposit and online banking.

How much more complicated would life be if we found ourselves standing in line at the bank every Friday afternoon at 5:15pm? Instead of the convenience of online bill payments we would have to cut checks and mail out bills every week.

Imagine traveling out of state to see family and over the holiday you slip on the slopes and land on your head. You are being rushed to a strange hospital to be seen by a doctor who has no way of knowing your medical history. Without any way of knowing what medications you are allergic to or what type of procedures you have had done, he is flying blind when it comes to your emergency care.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

It's amazing to think about what our world would be like without something as simple as the Internet. We've become so accustomed to having the world at our fingertips that it's scary to imagine what our future would be without it.

This connected network of wires and computers and storage has become such a large part of our everyday lives in every facet of our society that we can't seem to imagine a world without it. Or at least one that sounds like fun. Our internet service providers have become as important as our banks and grocery stores.

It is difficult to imagine what our lives would be like without all of the conveniences the internet has to offer and it has been the growth of the providers both in quantity and quality that have allowed these dreams to come to fruition.

Big and small, Internet service providers have facilitated the greatest technological advances of the last quarter century. Whether the industry is medical, financial, or personal, being able to consistently access the internet from home, on the road, and in the office has transformed every aspect of our lives.

Those internet companies that have withstood the test of time and have been able to offer reliable service at an affordable rate have taken a convenient luxury and made it widespread.

Given how far the nature of the internet has come in just the past decade, it is not difficult to imagine that it will continue to expand and develop in the future and the role of quality internet service providers will continue to grow with the needs of society.

Faizan Ahmad

HTC One - The Special One Among Android Flagships

2013-05-12T07:15:00.000+05:30

HTC had a great run in the early days of Android, but the Taiwan-based company has failed to match that success over the past few years. The company has lost a lot of ground to Samsung and Apple and is struggling to stay afloat.

It is now hoping that its latest flagship phone - the HTC One can mark the beginning of a new era. Let us see if this phone can live up to the high expectations of smartphones users in our detailed review.

Features and Specifications of HTC One

Design:

The HTC One measures 137.4 x 68.2 x 9.3 mm, which makes it slightly bigger than the Samsung Galaxy S4. It comes with an aluminum unibody with no gaps in between. HTC calls it the 'zero gap' construction as the phone's exterior is built from a single sheet of aluminum.

As far as the weight is concerned, the phone tips the scales at 143 grams which is a bit on the heavier side compared to plastic body phones, but the extra weight results in a more sturdy and well-built feel. The microSIM card slot is available on the left edge, while the volume rocker rests on the right.

On the top, you'll find the 3.5 mm audio jack and the Power/Lock button, with the microUSB port occupying the space at the bottom edge. At the front, HTC has done away with the menu button, so there are only two touch sensitive keys - Back and Home available below the display. In terms of design, the HTC One is one of the most gorgeous smartphones in the market mainly due to its premium aluminum body.

Hardware:

Inside the HTC One is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 processor with four cores running at 1.7 GHz, 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB or 64 GB of internal storage space. An Adreno 320 GPU handles the graphics processing. Unfortunately, there is no microSD card slot so users don't have any means to increase the memory capacity of the phone.

The phone does extremely well in all the key benchmark tests like GL Benchmark, Geekbench, Kraken, Sunspider and Google Octane. The battery inside the HTC One is a 3200 mAh unit which easily keeps the phone running for more than a day on a single charge. HTC has also introduced a power saving mode which can be used to extend battery life.

At the front, the HTC One has a 4.7-inch Super LCD 3 capacitive touchscreen display which comes with a resolution of 1080 X 1920 pixels. The display is bright, sharp and vibrant, which makes for a great viewing experience. It also has excellent outdoor visibility and wide viewing angles.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

Software:

HTC One is loaded with Google's Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean operating system with an overlay of HTC Sense 5 user interface. It is quite disappointing that the phone doesn't offer the latest version 4.2 of Android straight out of the box like the Galaxy S4.

HTC has added a new home screen called BlinkFeed, which pulls in updates from sites like Facebook, Twitter, Flipboard, ESPN, etc. and displays them in realtime. Some users might not prefer this over the standard Android homescreens so there is an option to turn it off as well.

The phone also has an infrared sensor which allows you to use it as a remote control. Some of the other apps available on the phone include HTC Music, HTC Watch, Notes, Google Music and much more.

Camera:

The HTC One's primary 4 megapixel camera has larger lens and a larger sensor than normal smartphone cameras. HTC calls it the Ultrapixel camera, which fortunately is not just a marketing gimmick. Thanks to the larger sized pixels, the camera captures in more light, resulting in sharper images especially in low light conditions.

A majority of the photos taken with the camera are perfect with impressive color reproduction and clarity. The camera interface has many options like scene modes, normal portrait mode, text, macro, HDR mode, night mode, self-timing, face detection, smile shot and much more. The snapper is also capable of 1080HD video recording at 30 frames per second.

There is a nice feature called Zoe mode which allows you to capture 3 seconds of videos and 20 still images simultaneously. Users can then choose the best photo among them or save all of them as per their liking.

Verdict:

The HTC One is undoubtedly one of the best smartphones till date. The phone has a great package of hardware and features, but its USP remains the stylish aluminum body which stands out among the current lot of polycarbonate flagship phones from other companies. However, it also has its fair share of shortcomings.

It doesn't have a removable battery, microSD card slot and the latest Android version, which puts it behind the Samsung Galaxy S4. However, if you are willing to overlook these issues in favor of a gorgeous looking smartphone, then there is nothing much to stop you from buying the HTC One.

Faizan Ahmad

The Processor In The Samsung Galaxy S4

2013-05-11T20:05:00.002+05:30

When it comes to cell phones, people have different reason for the one that they choose to buy. As smartphones become more and more powerful, there is one thing that is growing in importance.

The processor that the smartphone has can make a phone good or bad. As people demand more out of their smartphone, a fast processor becomes more important. The processor use in the Samsung Galaxy S4 offers the speed and reliability that people want and expect from their smartphone.

There are two processors in the Samsung Galaxy S4. A 1.6 GHZ Cortex A15 Quad Core processor and a 1.2 GHz Cortex A5 quad core processor. When these are connected, the Samsung Galaxy S4 has an octo core 1.6 GHz processor.

There are several benefits to the configuration of the processor in the Samsung Galaxy S4. The faster A15 processor is used for the tasks that require more work by the processor. Tasks such as processing video are done quickly with this processor.

For other tasks that do not require the sped and ability of the A15 processor, the A5 processor is used. This processor requires less energy and can help extend the battery life of the phone when it is used. The combination of these processors help the users get the best experience from their phone that is possible in the most efficient way.

The battery life of the smartphones being used by people today is often the thing that they complain about the most. There are some activities that people perform on their phone that require more energy than others.

[Image Source: www.wired.co.uk]

Without the combination of processors, the smartphones batteries will be quickly drained. Samsung believes that they have found the balance that people need between high performance and energy efficiency with their combination.

The chip of this processor has 1.2 billion transistors. They fit on a die that is 45 mm in size. The two cores each contain 12 execution units with 32 threads per chip. Some of the other specifications for this processor include:

•   256 KB L2 cache for each core
•   Dual DDR3 memory controllers
•   100 GB memory bandwidth for each chip

All of the numbers that the this processor offers can be very confusing. Most people who use the Samsung Galaxy S4 will not care what the L2 cache capabilities are or whether there is a single core or 8 core processor. What they care about is how well the smartphone functions. The capabilities of this processor should make people realize that it is better than what has been offered in the past.

It is designed to be the fastest processor in any smartphone. People will notice it when they use their smartphones to do what they used to have to turn to a computer to do. They are sure to appreciate the speed and the extended battery life that this processor offers.

Speed is important to the phone, but if you do not protect you phone, it will not be fast for long. A case to cover your Samsung Galaxy S4 is the best way to protect it.

Guest Post

About the Guest Author:

The author of this post have 15 years of experience in the banking industry. I have worked analyzing the credit applications for thousands of people and have excelled at making decisions quickly to help people get the credit that they need.

Tips for Saving Your Phone from Accidental Submersion

2013-05-11T10:48:00.001+05:30

Stop me if you've heard this one before: someone gets a new phone, is all excited about its possibilities, posts status updates from it non-stop, and then all of a sudden, “Dropped phone in sink, help!”

Oops.
With one simple slip, that lifeline to the outside world becomes a very expensive hunk of non-functioning metal. While friends will dish out home remedies for getting water out of technology which occasionally work (“Put it in a bowl of rice!”), more often than not a submerged cell phone becomes useless.

It happens often enough that not only do companies specifically state that water submersion isn't covered by any type of warranty, but have put indicators in the phone to react to any contact with liquid. No more trying to play innocent by claiming the phone just stopped working; the company will know your lie in about two seconds.

These top weatherproof electronics and products are made to keep water and other external elements from ruining your stuff. For example, weatherproof tags, name plates, and metal tags are, by their nature, fairly weather resistant. However, for technology it is different.

Options for Your Existing Phone

Butter finger moments happen, so luckily there are solutions. These mostly take on the form of cases to enclose your phone. While many people already utilize cases to protect their cell from being dropped on the floor, you can get them impervious to water.

If you decide to shop for a waterproof phone case, make sure to know what you're getting. Some waterproof cases will allow you to use the touch screen while the phone is encased, others won't. Other cases will claim to be waterproof, but only against light rain and sprinklers; submersion would still damage your phone.

[Image Source: sonymubile.com]

Options if You're in the Market for a New Phone

Some phones are waterproof out of the box. These specially made phones will have several methods of keeping the water and other weather elements out and will often use buzz-worthy language to try and sell you on their method over a competitor's.

To an extent the method used doesn't really matter, as long as the phone is waterproof. However, there can be aesthetic consequences to some of the options. Some of the phones will look bigger, as if they've got a waterproof case built right into the design. Others will make the waterproofing more subtle; the phone will look normal while cutting-edge technology is used to keep the phone safe.

What to Keep in Mind

A waterproof phone or case should have specific details on the conditions the company ensures the waterproofing. These details should include the depth of the submersion and how long the phone can remain submerged. The deeper a phone goes, the more pressure it will be under, and even a waterproof phone will crack at a certain point.

You can also get laptops and walkie talkies which are weatherproof, so if you feel good about your phone, but have other technology you're looking to protect, there are options.

Jacob Gehman

About the Guest Author:

Jacob Gehman is a freelance writer from Lancaster, PA. He spends too much time staring absently at his Facebook profile and writing poetry the Vogons would be proud of. When headphones are on his head, he's listening to too much Sonic Youth.

6 Easy Tips To Care For Your CDs And DVDs

2013-05-10T10:03:00.000+05:30

Most people store their important photos, data, movies and other information on CDs and DVDs. With the precious information they hold, it is very important to protect these devices well.

You need to ensure that you have a proper back-up system, while also ensuring proper care for the discs to avoid losing all your information. CDs and DVDs have a limited lifespan and it is important to ensure proper handling and storage for maximum protection.

There are several tips that can help to ensure that you enjoy the use of the devices for a long time to come.

Tips To Care For Your CD And DVDs

• Copying the CDs and DVDs

It is important to realize that the discs are not made to last forever. The materials deteriorate over time and will not last forever. Depending on the quality of the disc, you can expect service of between 10 years to 50 years for 'Archival, discs. It is a good idea to copy the data onto new modern quality discs after every couple of years. Do this alongside backing up the data and images online and on a hard drive.

• Handling the devices

When handling the discs, you should avoid touching the shiny surface. The surface traps dirt and grease easily and the oil on your skin can damage the devices. Hold the disc on the outer edge to protect it and make sure that your hands are dry when you do so.

• Writing on the discs

You should avoid using permanent markers to write on the CD or DVD. If you need to label the discs, use recommended markers. The ink in the permanent markers contains acid that can damage the disc. While it is not very advisable, if you must write on the disc, use acid free markers.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

• Cleaning the discs

While it is not usually necessary to clean the discs, if you get smudges on them, do not use harsh detergents or household cleaners to wash them. Ammonia can damage the disc causing you to lose all your precious images. If you cannot get the dirt out using a soft cloth, always use the recommended disc cleaning fluid to get rid of the stubborn dirt or smudges. Warm soapy water can also work effectively.

• Wiping the discs

Avoid using tissues or paper towels to wipe the discs as they can scratch the surface. Use a soft cotton cloth and make sure it is clean. When wiping the disk, work across and not in a circular motion, to avoid scratching the surface. Scratches on the disc will cause irreparable damage and you can lose all your information.

• Storing the discs

Store the CDs and DVDs in a safe area away from light and humidity. Look for a dimly lit, dry location and leave the discs in their protective cases to prevent damage. You can also use protective non-scratch sleeves. If your discs do not have hard cases, do not stack them as this can cause scratching.

Proper care of your discs will make them last for much longer and you can get the most mileage from them so make sure you heed these pieces of advice, folks!

Ryan Mclaren

About the Guest Author:

Today's guest post is authored by Ryan Mclaren, he provides services for cd manufacturing in Sydney. He loves collecting cd's and dvd's of his favourite movies and albums and takes special care, so that they last long. A keen blogger, he writes about various aspects of his profession on his blog.

Generate More Traffic to Your Blog With These 5 Creative Ways

2013-05-10T09:09:00.002+05:30

Many have the misconception that launching a website does everything to control and manage the business of blogging. This conception is not true. Launching the website is only the first move to harness the online form of technology to extend the business of the organization further to increase and reach the targeted leads to convert the sales.

To capture more traffic to your website in order to increase the online performance takes a lot of creativity, work and time. Let us talk about five creative ways to yield more traffic to your website.

5 Creative Ways to Generate More Traffic to Your Blog

1. Provide good and solid content to your user at a regular interval of time:

This is the era where the internet is in the flow of experiencing an influx of the information generated by the user. Content with good information has always been and will always be the most appropriate way of attacking the traffic to your website and retain them. While providing information about a product you must go through the reviews of the other services’ products.

Take a time out to provide the content good enough to attract the readers and the content should obviously be a useful one. For a person administering a blog site, it is a must to post a minimum of 2 or 3 times in a week.

2. Create a page of Google places:

Google involves the use of Geo-locating technology in order to pinpoint the location of the searcher when he/she searches for content. It then searches for the organization and business that relates best to the term of the search. The addition of Google places page is likely to increase the traffic to your website at a considerably higher rate.

Image Licensed Under Attribution

3. Add a sign up widget of email newsletter on your website

Email newsletters are used to notify the potential customers periodically about the products and offers and information. It should contain only the blurbs and the teasers to motivate the readers to go through the information provided in your website. Recipients will get an option of sharing the email with colleagues and friends, thus yielding more traffic to the website.

4. Set the social media pages of your business

The social network sites are of great advantage these days due to the growing rate of usage of the sites. It is a great way to advertise your website to the users around the world without mere expenses.

It is the best way to keep the user connected to your website and also keep them updated with the current notifications of the organization. Social media like Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn pages can be used to advertise your organization.

5. Keep option for user review on your website

Reviews are the most important and are the fastest form of indirect communication with the users. Few customers are keen to turn the reviews first even before having a look at the products.

Thus, encourage your customer to give review for your organization to increase the traffic by increasing the ranking of the search engine. It also helps in counterbalancing the negative comments (if any) in the website.

Austin Richard

About the Guest Author:

Austin Richard is an IT professional from Pass Certification. It provides you 100% 70-486 exams. Let’s take benefit of 70-413 Exams material efficiently and get guaranteed success. Check out free demo of all certifications Exam.

Be Smart And Go For Wireless Printing

2013-05-09T08:51:00.000+05:30

On a daily basis, nearly all of us work on smartphones, tablets, laptops or computers and very often we use printers as well. In this era where the desktops are becoming extinct because laptops and tablets give us the ease of work, why not use wireless printing to stretch that ease?

Yes, wireless printing has emerged as the necessity in the workplace, not only because it has revolutionized printing but also it has been able to increase productivity in various sectors. So using a wireless printer is a smart choice and definitely a good investment.

Let me tell you about the plethora of benefits you will get while using wireless printers.

Benefits of Wireless Printing

Access it remotely

In the office or in the house you can access the wireless printer remotely. This means you can keep it anywhere and not just close to you. Additionally more users can use it remotely from the same device, serving it as a communal printer. The wireless signals can travel over walls and ceilings and hence employees in multiple stories offices can also access it without any shifting hassles.

Say no to clutter

Wired printers need cables and wires to get connected to the device. This means that you cannot place it anywhere, and it will need its own space. But not so with wireless printers; they can be kept even in small areas and are free from clutter. As we all know, the clutter-less environment boost productivity!

Go the secure way

Most often the business networking systems have their own way of protection; they are secure because they have passwords to control them. The wireless printers can work in accordance with these networks, just as the wired counterparts.

[Image Source: www.samsung.com]

Compatible with multiple devices

Wireless printers are compatible with different other devices like smartphones and tablets. So if, you want to take a printout quickly while you are tied up in some other work, just use the device, and your printout will be ready.

Saves you some quick bucks

Just imagine if multiple people could use the same printer then there will be no necessity to have a printer on each table. So, it is cost effective and saves a lot of money for the owner. There will be a necessity to invest on additional jacks, which is costly for wired printers, but it is not required for wireless printers.

Hence, the unanimous verdict is that wireless printers increase mobility, are functional, compatible, and a smart choice to invest in. It runs on inkjet or toner and can communicate between networks of devices. If you have a strong signal delivery, there is no problem in using a wireless printer and it is also not priced too much above the wired devices.

Remember the following aspects-

But after buying a wireless device just keep the following aspects in mind. The very first will be the wireless local area network or the WLAN. Opt for the best and secured WLAN or your printer may allow unauthorized access and entry to your systems.

Those that run on Wi-Fi also need system protection to the maximum with WPA2 or WPA encryption. Also try to keep the printer away from other interferences like microwave, Bluetooth and other cordless gadgets.

Once all these coordinates are taken care of, this smart device can work in full swing, and you will reap the maximum benefits from it.

James Hanning

About the Guest Author:

Today’s guest post is written by James Hanning. He is a tech aficionado who enjoys writing about gadgets and other tech related things. He believes that the toner cartridges are an integral part of the printer and need to be looked after with proper care.