Mobile Operating Systems, Technology

Want Android on your PC? — AirDroid app connects you

Have you ever been in the middle of an enthralling text message conversation when you got the dreaded battery low indication?  Ever needed to transfer files but did not feel like dealing with messy cables?  Sometimes you need to use your phone; but it may be an inopportune time or place.  AirDroid is the answer that you have been looking for!

This app found HERE provides you with a direct connection to your android device via you browser.  From this convenient window you can send and receive text messages, manage photos and contacts, and even transfer files with no wires.  The app works like a charm, the user only needs to follow these simple steps:

  1. Run the application, from there your device will display a web address that will give you access to your device
  2. Enter either the default password or one that you can set
  3. Go to the address on your computer to achieve full access to your device over your network

Bottom line:  This is an excellent app that any committed Android user would love — especially useful for those in office settings that do not need to have their devices glued to their hands at all times.  However, it would be even better if you could send and receive email via the app is well; maybe in a later version.

Operating Systems, Technology

Windows 8; Must have or Must pass?

Redmond is hard at work to make the latest iteration of it’s world changing operating system, Windows 8, spectacular.  However, IS it great and will it be well received by this ever-changing market?

Many techies (myself included) are thinking that Windows 8 will be what Windows Vista was to the world, sub-par.  The changes that Microsoft are releasing are so drastic and so new that it seems very unlikely that this operating system will garner a lot of support up front.  Now, Windows 8 software along with new hardware released that has the new operating system installed from the manufacturer could potentially be a big hit; yet, the signs say otherwise. Why?

  • This iteration may not have a Start button (removed in the latest build)
  • Will Windows 8 be good for business?  Although businesses aren’t the only ones who use the operating system; they are the only buyers who want it in bulk and provide for major profits if provided with a stable release because they will continue to buy from Microsoft.
  • Metro on the desktop?  It is not meant for desktop users; stay on mobile devices.

Although the interface of Windows will be changed to Metro UI on top of the traditional desktop that we are used to; there will always be a need for a desktop machine.  There are simply too many instances where a smartphone or a tablet just aren’t enough.

Bottom line:  I am not counting Windows 8 completely out.  In fact, I want to see this version of the OS succeed more than ever.  However, until I am swayed to make the switch, I will continue to run Windows 7.  Microsoft cannot forget what made it popular; the desktop.  Windows does not need to become limited; especially in regards to how the latest Macs are.

Mobile Operating Systems, Technology

Android 4.0 – Ice Cream Sandwich — Galaxy Nexus; Is it that great?

Android 4.0 is arguably the most mature and polished iteration of the Android operating system that Google has ever released.  Honestly, the usability, stability, and sheer prowess increase with every release.  In addition, the first device to come with Android 4.0 (ICS) is a super-phone packing tons of power.  The Samsung Galaxy Nexus makes the Android experience snappy as you switch through home screens and applications in a breeze.  I was very optimistic about the performance of this new device; however, since it was a dual-core phone with a higher amount of RAM if you are coming from a Moto Droid X or similar you will see a huge difference.

True selling points of ICS:

  • True task switching
  • Snappy and lightweight
  • Stock launcher is beautiful
  • NO NEED TO ROOT

Normally, with Android phones you are given a lot you can play with such as the launcher, browsers, SMS applications and more.  ICS on the Samsung Galaxy Nexus is perfectly capable of handling anything that you throw at it.  As previously mentioned, the maturity of this operating system shines through greatly with updated SMS, browser, and contacts applications.

Bottom line:  Although Android is all about customizations and tweaking the phone to your desires; the Galaxy Nexus with ICS just works.  Now that Google has shown what it can do, we can only expect Android to get better and consume even more of the market.

Social Networking

The Facebook IPO; What does it mean?

Facebook files for a $5 billion IPO (initial public offering)….

Mark Zuckerburg set out to create a social network for his college, which quickly expanded to other colleges and eventually encompassed the world.  It seems that almost everyone you see physically within the real-world also has an online identity.  Facebook completely put MySpace to rest; users immediately admired the lightweight interface and ease of use.  Also, with the company consistently updating the site and adding more features using is hacker-esque approach, we should expect nothing but continual growth from this powerhouse.

On the other hand, when a company goes public and acquires money hungry shareholders things can go down very quickly.  Zuckerburg will always maintain a large share of the company; however, now he will not be the only person that will need to be pleased — it will be him along with everyone else who buy in significantly.  So, this brings up an important question.  Will the company continue it’s domination or take a turn for the worse since more opinions will need to be heard?  Time will only tell.  Additionally, even if Facebook did take a plunge it wouldn’t be overnight the company has posted earnings of $777 million in 2009, $1.974 billion in 2010, and $3.711 billion last year.

Bottom line:  Be excited for what Facebook could bring in the future; just be aware that it can become very different because of new shareholders.

Tech for the masses, meant to empower, educate and inform by Dexter Johnson.