WANT TO EXTEND THE BATTERY LIFE OF YOUR iPHONE?
Did you get a new iPhone for the holidays? So many features to learn!! Not only can you listen to your music, but how about the videos that you can watch with either your wi-fi connection or from your cell phone carrier (Verizon, AT&T, or Sprint)?
Most likely, you are finding that the battery life of your new smartphone is much shorter than on a standard cell phone. The reason for this is with a smartphone (iPhone, Android, blackberry), the amount of data (e-mail, Internet access, media) consumes significantly more energy than a conventional cell phone that only is used for telephone purposes.
Streaming music or videos from the Internet are the major source of decreased battery life. Applications of any type that are running in the background such as Facebook, news and weather updates, etc, also impact the life of your battery.
Below is a link that has some useful tips about extending the life of your smartphone battery:
If you or someone you know needs to brush up on basic computer skills, requires help choosing the right computer or any other technology issues, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com. Feel free to click here to receive my free white paper on Technology Tips on setting up a home office and becoming a true road warrior.
HERE COMES YET ANOTHER SMARTPHONE
Last week it was the iPhone 4s, and now, the new Motorola Razr. With a new smartphone being introduced almost daily, making the right choice can be a daunting experience. Here is the link to an article in Mashable comparing the best selling models.
While my earlier blog of October 5th, http://bluetutor.com/?p=1008 explains the mobile phone war in greater deal, below is a summary of important facts to consider before buying.
1. Make sure you select the right provider (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc) – Not all providers are created equal. The name of the game is coverage. Are you experiencing dropped calls or poor reception? Check with your neighbors to see which provider works best for them.
2. The three major smartphones are RIM’s Blackberry, Apple’s iPhone, and Google’s Android. They are all different and comfort level means a lot. Not all providers offer the same models. The iPhone is an attractive phone with lots of apps but you better be comfortable with the touch screen. The Android phone’s market share has increased steadily and it offers a choice of using the touch screen or a slide out keyboard while Blackberry’s market share has reduced significantly with the advent of both the iPhone and Android.
3. Once you have decided which provider works best for you, go into a store and play with the available models. Make sure you are comfortable with the weight, size, and screen. Touch screens are handy but not not be right for everyone. If not, you might want a pull out keyboard.
Mobile technology is growing. Within the next couple of years, more people will be accessing the Internet on a mobile device than with a computer. Choose wisely!!
If you have any questions about this or other technology issues, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com. If you are in career transition, feel free to click here to receive my free white paper on Technology Tips on setting up a home office and becoming a true road warrior.
BACK TO SCHOOL TECHNOLOGY TIPS
Is your child or grandchild off to college for the first time? If they are returning to school and into an off campus apartment, it is important to address their technology needs. No longer is it just textbooks, clothing and bank accounts on your to-do list. With technology imbedded in both their personal and educational lives, there are a number is issues that must be addressed, hopefully before move-in time. The following are some of the more important things that should be included on your to-do list.
– Most colleges have removed phones from dorm rooms. Your student probably already has a cell phone. However, you must make sure the provider you are using (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc.) has a strong signal at school. Call the school and, if possible, talk to some other students about their experience.
– Check your cell telephone plan. If your student is not going to be in your local area, make sure you have a nationwide plan. In addition, check your usage. More than likely, your usage will increase since you will be speaking with your child more than you think.
– Check your text messaging plan. Most students rely heavily on text messaging which is a simple way of communicating.
– Find out what type of Internet plan the school provides. Does the dorm offer wi-fi connectivity? How about the rest of the campus?
– Most students bring a laptop to school with them. MACs are more popular than Windows based computers. If you need to buy one, most schools have discount plans with different manufacturers. Apple has a student discount plan. Schools offer substantial discounts on most software.
– Are you a Skype user? Being able to video chat makes both students and family members still feel connected. If you and your student both have MACs, you can use iChat. Skype and iChat are similar. However iChat only works if you both have a MAC. Both services are free from any part of the world, as long as you are both on a computer.
– For those students living in off campus apartments, make sure they contact the local cable company to install a modem/router along with their TV service. No need to spend money on installing a land line. A cell phone is sufficient.
Finally, don’t forget the cables. Although the school might have wi-fi, bring along an ethernet cable as well as extension cords. I suggest that everyone have at least two cell phone chargers; one for the room and another to carry with them, since the newer smartphones have limited battery life.
As a parent that has gone through this process of number of times, do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding either your students’ or your back-to-school needs. I can be reached either by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com or by phone at 917 921-4518.
DO YOU CARRY YOUR CELL PHONE WITH YOU?
10 Reasons to keep it close by
Although cell phone use in the US is well over 90%, there are still individuals that have resisted the urge to “become wired.” Although many of us would like the ability to escape and not be reached, there are many reasons why having a cell phone has become a necessity. The following are some of the more important ones:
1. You are almost always accessible. It is possible to limit your accessibility by switching the phone to a vibrate only mode, or turning it off, when at the movies or at dinner for example.
2. In case of emergency, you can reach out for help whether you are lost, have a flat tire or in need of medical assistance.
3. Running late? You can either call or send a text message.
4. Keeping in contact with your children whether it be a change of plans or out late at night.
5. If you are a senior, the ability to keep in touch with your family. If you are living alone, giving your children peace of mind.
6. Cost – Long distance calling is usually cheaper.
7. Taking a trip? – Have your home calls transferred to your cell phone.
8. If you are dependent on e-mail, you can purchase a “smartphone” that permits you to access your messages from anywhere.
9. An easy way of having access to all your contact information.
10. An extra alarm clock.
If you need assistance determining what type of cell phone is best for you or want to discuss upgrade options, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com.
CONFUSED BY YOUR CELL PHONE BILL?
What is a Tiered Data Plan?
Recently released statistics (as reported by CNN.com) indicate that more than a third of U.S. adults now own smartphones. The Nielsen Company reports that smartphones represent over 50% of all new cell phone purchases.
By definition, a smartphone is any mobile device that combines functions such as telephone, e-mail, Internet access, contact information, and calendar. The three major suppliers of smartphones are Apple’s I-Phone, RIM’s Blackberry, and Google’s Android.
Cell phone providers (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc.) offer a variety of telephone plans based on your usage. While the telephone plans are the same for smartphones, there is an additional charge for “data,” meaning e-mail and Internet access. These charges add an additional $30 and up to your bill.
Several weeks ago, following the lead of its competitors, Verizon ended its “unlimited” data plan and introduced “tiered” pricing. The end of the unlimited era has confused many consumers who do not understand the new pricing structure which is based on the amount of data usage. Verizon now offers monthly plans of $30 for 2GB of data, $50 for 5GB of data and $80 for 10GB of data. Additional fees will apply if you exceed the limits of your plan.
In order to determine what plan is best for you, below is a list of functions that will impact your data usage.
1. Streaming video – Watching video on programs such as YouTube or full length movies on services like Netflix and Hulu on your smartphone or I-Pad.
2. Streaming Audio – While it is OK to play music from your I-Tunes library, using Internet Radio programs such as Pandora eats into your usage (although not as much as video).
3. Navigation systems – Using your smartphone on the road as opposed to an in-car navigation system.
4. Internet Use – Sites with significant amounts of data.
Accessing social media sites such as Facebook will not consume a lot of megabytes. However uploading photos will. Twitter is fine since it deals mainly with small amounts of text. No need to worry about e-mail, since it is basically plain text. However, if you receive attachments with high resolution pictures, your usage will increase.
An alternative to using your cell phone provider’s data service is using Wi-fi wherever it is available, whether that be at home, in your office or a “hotspot.” There are no data limitations with a wi-fi connection.
As for me, I am on the road quite a bit and use my smartphone all day. An analysis of my usage indicates that I am well under 2GB per month, which should be more than sufficient for the average mobile warrior. I suggest you check with your service provider who is able to provide you with an analysis of your usage prior to selecting a pricing package.
If you have any questions about your cell phone situation, want to discuss a possible upgrade, or any other technology issues, give me a call at 917 921-4518 or send an email to jblue@bluetutor.com.
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10 REASONS WHY COMPANIES SHOULD TARGET BABY BOOMERS
Baby Boomers are not Luddites!
1. Baby Boomers number 77 million, over 25% of the US population.
2. Baby Boomers are the wealthiest, best educated and most sophisticated purchasers of services and products.
3. By 2030, there will be twice as many people over age 65 as now. Companies that don’t make their products and services relevant to older consumers will have a difficult time.
4. The latest research indicates that Boomers and Seniors are expected to outspend younger adults by $1 trillion this year.
5. The latest statistics indicate that 41% of Boomers regularly visit social networking sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn, and 61% visit websites that offer streaming or downloadable videos.
5. A recent article in the NY Times reported that Boomers show a great deal of interest in purchasing consumer electronics – more than any other age group.
6. There is a surging number of people starting businesses later in life (baby boomers and seniors). They will rely heavily on technology and will need to brush up on their basic computer skills.
7. Boomers embrace technology when researching travel, products and services.
8. With families spread out all over the world, they will rely heavily on e-mail, social media and video conference to keep in touch.
9. Boomers don’t want technology products that are complicated and cluttered with excessive features.
10. Remember, Boomers are not just interested in issues such as health care and senior living facilities. They spend more on traveling, new cars and computers than any other generation.
READY FOR A CELL PHONE UPGRADE?
Why you should consider a “Smart Phone”
5 KEY RULES FOR THE USE OF CELL PHONES ABROAD
1. Check with your mobile phone provider (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc.) to see if your phone will work in the country you are visiting.
2. Make sure that you tell your provider that you are traveling internationally. Some offer international data plans (e-mail, Internet access, messenger services).
3. Some mobile providers are placing limits on “unlimited plans.” Make sure you understand how you will be billed.
4. Inquire whether your phone can use a SIM card. SIM cards are small removable smart cards that are used in many cell phones. These cards are used to store your mobile phone number and address book contacts. Not all phones can use SIM cards so contact your service provider.
5. Since placing and receiving calls on your phone while overseas is expensive, you might want to consider renting a local phone for the country or countries who are visiting. These phones can be rented in the US before you leave.
Below is a link to an article that appeared in today’s Wall Street Journal with some excellent suggestions on how to save money while abroad.
If you have any questions about how to control your communication costs abroad, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com.
WORKING FROM HOME?
Do you have the right tools to operate from home? Does you technology support your needs? The equipment and services you need for business purposes are different than those used for personal use. Learn how to achieve maximum productivity.
THE BABY BOOMERS TECHNOLOGY GUIDE
If you were born between 1946-1964, you are part of the Baby Boomer generation. Your age bracket (47-65) represents 77.6 million of all Americans and is growing as an overall percentage of our population.
The weakened economy has forced many boomers to re-evaluate their financial situations, and in many cases, their careers.
It is not unusual that many Boomers are faced with one of more of the following situations.
- They have recently left corporate life, either as a result of downsizing or by choice
- They are starting a new business
- They are re-entering the job market after retirement or merely to supplement the family income
- They are looking to set up a cost efficient home office
- They are confused by all the new technology that seems to appear on the market almost on a daily basis
- They simply need to brush up on their basic computer skills
Chances are that if you are transitioning out of corporate life, there was always a technology support group available a phone call away. On your own, finding the right resource to replace that support can be quite challenging.
As a former corporate executive, I understand your needs. My clients include many boomers faced with similar concerns regarding their technology needs. If you are facing any of the issues listed above, of have any other technology issues that you would like to discuss, give me a call at 917 921-4518 or e-mail me at jblue@bluetutor.com.
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