Learn The iPad Pro — Does Bigger Mean Better?

The iPad Pro — Does Bigger Mean Better?

Last Updated: November 2, 2015

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The long rumored “big” iPad finally arrived during Apple’s September event focused on the new iPhone 6s. The iPad Pro with its external, attachable keyboard and Apple Pencil reminds one of the Microsoft Surface, albeit with a more robust app market available through the iTunes App Store.

With the new iPad Mini 4 and iPhone 6s Plus also boasting powerful tech specs and iOS app compatibility, is the marketplace really interested in a super-sized iPad? Let’s take a closer look at the details and see.

iPad Pro Features and Specs

The most notable feature of the iPad Pro is its 12.9-inch Retina display, capable of a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels. If you enjoy watching movies or TV shows on your tablet, this display is a great reason for upgrading to a larger iPad. Perform regular speed tests to ensure your Internet bandwidth can handle HD streaming with little buffering.

The iPad Pro also sports Apple’s A9X processor and a M9 motion coprocessor, making this the most powerful iPad model to date. The enhanced iSight camera features 8MP resolution as well as a host of features to please shutterbugs, although many users still prefer using their smaller smartphone to take pictures. HD video recording is supported as well.

Surprisingly, one new Apple feature not part of the iPad Pro is the pressure sensitive 3D Touch display available on both iPhone 6s models. Cost is probably the main reason for this decision when considering the much larger touchscreen of the iPad Pro. iPad musicians are probably the most disappointed, hoping for pressure sensitivity to be included in the next line of music creation apps.

The WiFi version of the iPad Pro retails for either $799 (32GB) or $949 (128GB). The one model with both WiFi and cellular connectivity is priced at $1079 with 128GB of storage. The attachable keyboard and new Apple Pencil cost extra. The new iPad is expected to arrive online and in stores in November.

Does a Larger iPad Pro Make Sense for Most Users?

In short, the iPad Pro is larger and more powerful than any previous iPad. Many Apple power users can simply purchase a lower end MacBook for essentially the same price, albeit without the new Pencil. Windows users are probably going to stay with the Microsoft Surface or a similar Windows tablet.

Will the iPad Pro succeed in a tablet market filled with smaller models that many users find are easier to hold and operate? While its large Retina display makes it the arguably preeminent tablet for streaming movies and video, is that enough of a market for Apple to deem the device to be a success? Expect the answers to these questions after this year’s Holiday season once the sales numbers have been tabulated.

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Learn The iPad Pro — Does Bigger Mean Better?

Is the New Apple TV a Video Streaming Game Changer?

Last Updated: October 1, 2015

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One of the most intriguing product announcements during Apple’s recent iPhone 6 event covered the new Apple TV box and platform. With a new operating system, called tvOS, apps and games are now a big part of a system that formerly concentrated on video streaming.

Apple’s move is aimed at attracting developers to port high-end video games to the device, trying to steal casual gaming fans from the PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, and Nintendo Wii U platforms. If you decide to get an Apple TV or upgrade your current model, you’ll now have more uses for your Internet bandwidth. Let’s take a closer look.

Notable Features of the New Apple TV

For users more interested in video streaming than gameplay, the most significant new feature of the Apple TV is its Siri remote control. Now you can talk to your TV in a similar manner as your late model iPhone. For gamers, the Siri remote is also used for video game action, providing touch and accelerometer functionality, along with a standard gaming controller (available as an extra). So, anyone used to a PS4 or Xbox 360 will feel right at home.

The new Apple TV does come at a higher price — either $149 (32GB) or $199 (64GB). In addition to the memory used for storage, the device now features 2GB of RAM compared to 512MB in earlier models. When combined with the faster A8 processor, users can expect a smoother on-screen interface. Better streaming performance is also promised provided your Internet speed is up to snuff.

Video Game System to Challenge Sony and Microsoft

With the new tvOS and support for a standard video game controller, Apple looks to challenge a gaming market dominated by Sony and Microsoft. Launch titles for the new Apple TV include Rayman Adventures, Guitar Hero Live and the space shooter Galaxy on Fire — Manticore Rising. All that being said, these titles are not really different than the level of games available for the iPad and iPhone. In addition, Apple’s requirement to support the Siri control, even if the user owns a standard video game controller, might scare away some developers and hardcore video game players.

Other apps include Airbnb (the real estate rental service), Apple Music, and the ability to view photos and play music from your iTunes library. Since Apple is strongly courting developers for tvOS, expect more apps to arrive after the Apple TV launches.

If you already own a multitude of Apple products, possibly even an earlier model of the Apple TV, the added voice control and more powerful tech specs make the new Apple TV a smart purchase. Casual gamers looking to join the growing ranks of cord-cutters might also consider the device. The Apple TV is expected to hit the market sometime in October.

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Learn The iPad Pro — Does Bigger Mean Better?

MacBook Pro Features: Apple’s Top of the Line Laptop

Last Updated: June 20, 2014

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Mac aficionados or computer users who want an alternative to Microsoft and Windows need to check out Apple’s MacBook Pro features. While generally more expensive than their Windows-powered counterparts (and even more expensive than Google’s Chromebooks), the MacBook Pro features high-end computing power and the sleek design typical of products out of Cupertino.

Apple's MacBook Pro Features and Pricing — Apple’s MacBook Pro Features and Pricing

For users already invested in Apple’s proverbial walled garden — owners of iPods, iPads, Apple TVs, and the like — buying a MacBook Pro laptop makes managing content on those other devices a bit easier. Apple users can also easily manage broadband performance on all devices by selecting a single non-Flash based, HTML5 test.

A Closer Look at MacBook Pro Features

Let’s take a closer look at the MacBook Pro line and the differences between the models — typically screen size, RAM, the hard drive, and the availability of a Retina display. Let’s start with the MacBook Pro features:

MacBook Pro with Retina Display Features

15.4-inch Retina Display (2880 x 1800 Resolution)
Up to 2.6GHz Intel Quad-Core i7 Processor
Up to 16GB On-board RAM
Up to 1TB Solid State Storage
Two Each USB 3 and Thunderbolt 2 Ports
HDMI Port
Bluetooth 4.0
HD Camera
Powered by OSX Mavericks
Priced from $1999

There are a lot of “up to” phrases in the feature descriptions above. A fully appointed MacBook Pro with the 1TB solid state storage and 2.6GHz processor options comes in at a $3,299.00 price tag, so this is definitely a high-end laptop computer. Expect to pay about half as much for a Windows laptop with similar hardware specs.

A lower-end MacBook Pro without the Retina display costs $1,199.00 with a dual core Intel i5 chip, 4GB of RAM, and a 500GB non-solid state drive. Most of the MacBook Pro line comes with the Retina display, with prices ranging from $1,299.00 to the quoted $3,299.00. Obviously, processor power, on-board RAM, and hard drive storage are the prime differentiators when it comes to the final price.

Installed Software Includes iMovie, Garage Band, and more

Each MacBook Pro comes with a host of pre-installed software: including iMovie, Garage Band, iPhoto, and more. OSX Mavericks is a robust operating system that is easy to use and boots significantly faster than Windows.

So if you are in the market for a high-end laptop, the MacBook Pro with Retina display makes for a compelling option. Performing a regular Internet speed test never felt so good!

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Internet Speed for Facebook Chat: What’s Ideal?

Last Updated: January 17, 2014

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Facebook has become the go-to social platform used by young and old alike to stay in touch with family and friends. It now boasts over a billion users worldwide. Recently, the social media giant introduced video chat for users, accessible directly from users’ Facebook accounts without the need to download additional software. For some, however, the experience has been less than optimal, leading to the question: What’s the ideal Internet speed for Facebook chat?

Video Chat Basics

There are two types of chat functions available for Facebook users: text and video. When you use Facebook, a small notification window typically appears at the bottom right of your screen, letting you know who’s online and available for text chat. Clicking on the window lets you select a friend and send a message. If you find this chat is lagging, you may have a problem with your Internet connection, or your router’s firewall may be blocking access to Facebook. If you’re on a wireless connection, check to make sure you have service; if you’re on a 3G or 4G network, make sure you aren’t out of data.

To access video chat, simply click on the small video camera icon next to your friend’s name. This will start a video call she can accept, even if she doesn’t have a video camera. In that case, you’ll be able to hear but not see your friend, though she’ll still see you if your camera is enabled. Facebook doesn’t charge for this service, but it does note on its support page that there are several caveats when using video chat. First, minimal setup is required, so if you’re calling a friend who’s never used the feature before, it may take a few moments to connect. In addition, not every computer is able to run Facebook video calling. If you’re running Windows 8.1, OS X 10.9 or Linux, Facebook video isn’t available. Fortunately, the service works with most popular Web browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Internet Explorer (32 bit only).

Up to Speed

According to Facebook’s video calling Bugs and Known Issues page, some users experience difficulty connecting if their computer or connection is too slow. Facebook recommends an Intel Core 2Ghz or faster processor and at least 1 gigabyte (GB) of RAM. Netbooks are not recommended, as they often experience poor video performance. A slow Internet connection can be responsible for video chat problems. Download speed of at least 500 kilobytes per second (kbps) is recommended — this is the same as what Skype recommends for one-on-one video calling, and Facebook video chat uses a variant of Skype traffic. It’s worth noting that a similarly fast upload speed is also recommended, since you’re not just receiving video data during a chat but also sending the same amount of data in return. If you have high download but poor upload speed, your friend may have difficulty hearing or seeing your side of the chat. A free online speed test can help you determine if your Internet is running up to speed.

The best Internet speed for Facebook chat is the fastest you can manage under your budget — aim for at least 3 Mpbs download and 1 Mpbs upload. While basic requirements to use the service are minimal, you’ll experience quicker connections and higher quality calls with speedy Internet connections.

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

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Setting a Parental Lock on Android Depends on the Version

Last Updated: December 17, 2013

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You just discovered a few hundred dollars worth of in-app purchases from a popular Android mobile video game. The likely culprit — other than the game developer — is your eight-year-old kid. How do you set a parental lock on Android? The ultimate answer depends on the version of Android on your smartphone or tablet.

Android Jelly Bean (4.3) Provides the Best Locking Features

Android 4.3 — code named Jelly Bean — enhanced the profiles feature introduced in the 4.2 version of the mobile OS. With these new restricted profiles, it is possible to set up a separate password-protected user account for everyone in your family. For each account, there are settings allowing you disable in-app purchases and filter apps based on their content maturity level.

It is also possible to restrict access to all the apps on the device for each separate user account. So if you download Bard’s Tale after setting up user accounts, a simple toggle switch makes the app invisible to your child. This user account functionality is available under the Android’s “Settings” section.

Older Versions Require More Work for Parental Lock on Android

Older versions of Android don’t have the same restricted profile functionality as Android Jelly Bean, so implementing parental control requires a bit more effort. The first thing you should do is go into the settings for the Google Play store and make sure your password is required for any app downloads and in-app purchases. You can also set up content filtering, but this affects the whole device. Additionally, you’ll need to disable the option that allows the installation of apps from unknown sources in the Android settings.

Other apps, such as Kid’s Place or AppLock, are useful for providing a parental lock on Android. Kid’s Place also adds a timer control, so you can limit the amount of game time your child gets on your tablet or smartphone. While Android Jelly Bean provides the best locking support, making sure your app downloads and in-app purchases are password protected — no matter which Android version you have — prevents surprises when you get your next bill!

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

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What’s New With the Surface Pro 2

Last Updated: November 20, 2013

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The Surface Pro 2 is an upgrade to Microsoft’s less impressive Surface Pro, which was released last year as Microsoft’s introductory tablet. The original Surface spouted Windows 8, which many consumers were not used to, and there was not much opportunity for adding extra applications. The kickstand, which was a bragging point for Microsoft, was not that durable and did not meet expectations.

Microsoft took the relatively low sales numbers not as a failure, but as a sign that their tablet just needed a few changes. So, they released the next generation of tablet. There is a version 2 model and a Pro 2 model.

Microsoft claims that the Surface Pro 2 is good enough to replace your laptop. Here are some of its main features:

Battery Life: The battery life is supposed to last 75% longer than the original Surface Pro.

Faster Processing: The tablet comes with an Intel Core i5 processor and Intel’s HD Graphics 4400 chip. This combination allows better processing, and even better game play, but it is not going to hold up to the higher-end video games. However, it does boot up quickly, has no real issues with browser games, and has an overall good rating for increased speed. In fact, The Verge says it is “insanely fast for a Windows PC.”

New Ports: The Pro 2 comes with a full USB 3.0, allowing HD video, mini display port, and a micro SD card reader.

Kickstand: Microsoft has made the kickstand more durable and improved on the design. Its new dual-angle feature allows a more comfortable experience, whether the user is using the Surface on a desk or in his lap.

Software: The Pro 2 has an improved Windows 8.1 installed and allows applications to run simultaneously.

Storage: The base model comes with a decent 64GB, but consumers can upgrade to 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB.

Freebies: Those who purchase the Surface Pro 2 will receive 200GB of SkyDrive storage for two years and free voice calling via Skype for one year absolutely free.

The Pro 2 is definitely an upgrade over the original model, but will it hold its own against the Apple iPad? The Pro 2 is a little more expensive coming out of the gate, but it has some pretty cool features that Apple does not yet have. It should definitely place Microsoft into the competition for tablets. As the two companies start to improve on their devices, the prices will most likely be driven down, and the consumers will split the market as they usually do with these two companies.

Photo credit: Flickr

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The Best WiFi Router for Streaming Video: 3 Options

Last Updated: November 18, 2013

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If you want to start streaming to your TV (or say, Chromecast) and you’re just not able to connect an Ethernet cable directly, then you need a WiFi router — and with Chromecast, you need a WiFi router, period!

So, maybe you have one already, from 5 years ago, but have noticed how bad it performs when streaming video. Here’s the truth about WiFi: If you don’t go big, you get poor streaming (take into account your bandwidth as well — make sure you perform a speed test regularly). But don’t worry, “big” is only $136-$220, a one-time expense for a router that will last you at least three to five years. Plus, you don’t want to “cheapen” your streaming video experience. Face it. It’s time to upgrade!

So, here are some WiFi routers that are both cost effective and able to deliver high performance for streaming video:

Trednet TEW-812DRU AC1750 Dual-Band Wireless Router

At $136, this is the most affordable WiFi router with the best performance, plus, it’s incredibly easy to use. Another great feature, not available on most routers: you can set up as many as four main WiFi networks (and another four guest WiFi networks on each band). That is sixteen concurrent WiFi networks!

The router has good range (but not as insane as the others listed here), but with solid performance and cheap pricing — for a router — this one is a great alternative to super-high-end routers and perfect for streaming video and playing online games.

D-Link DIR-866L

At $160 dollars, this is a much better router for the price. You get a fast router, with great WiFi coverage, plus, USB 3.0 support.

It has a vertical cylindrical design and includes common features found in high-end routers including guest networking, iPv6, port forwarding, QoS (quality of service), and firewall. What you have is an advanced router, for a more reasonable price.

Asus RT-AC86U Dual-Band Wireless-AC 1900 GB Router

At $220 dollars, this WiFi router is specifically for video streaming aficionados (and gamers). You can simply do anything with this router: online game, mobile game, mobile Skype, Chromecast, Netflix streaming, you name it.

This is a powerful router, with huge range (remember: when streaming video to your TV over WiFi, your worst enemy is lag and buffering). This is the “no-holds barred” cyber-behemoth of routers, so if you want the best, here it is.

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Video Game Ratings: What Parents Should Know

Last Updated: November 12, 2013

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Video games have come a long way since Donkey Kong and Pac-Man. Graphics, gameplay, controls, and story lines have developed to the point where gaming is akin to entering a virtual world with its own set of rules. Though many of these worlds contain graphic violence, parents can now consult a video game ratings system, which is a reliable guide to which games are and are not suitable for your child. Here’s what you should know:

The Threat of Violence

Any responsible parent should be aware that many games on the market contain an excessive degree of violence. The Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty series are renowned for their innovative and imaginative gameplay, but they are also equally notorious for the degree of violence they contained. Although there will always be an ongoing debate surrounding the moral question of such violence in games, there is no question that age restrictions should be put in place to prevent children from being exposed to potentially upsetting material.

The Guardian Angels

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has developed a video game ratings system which has been widely adopted by game publishers and retailers as the most tried and tested system of its kind in the US. It allows parents to make informed choices about the age-appropriateness and suitability of video games and apps through a universal rating system based on child development, impartial information, and parental concern. The board is a nonprofit, self-regulatory body that holds the video game industry accountable for its marketing methods. It administers a three-part video game ratings system, which includes age-appropriateness, content descriptors, and interactive elements, which analyzes if the users’ location and personal information are shared. Additionally, the ESRB website offers in-depth and informative descriptions about the games.

The Ratings

The ESRB video game ratings system, which is printed as black and white letters on the outside of a game’s packaging, are as follows: EC is for Early Childhood; E is for Everyone; E10+ is for Everyone over Ten; T is for Teen; M is for Mature (17+); A is for Adults Only; and the rarely seen RP means Rating Pending. In addition, ESRB-rated games have content descriptors on the back of the box which indicate elements such as “Intense Violence,” “Mature Sexual Themes,” and “Drug Reference,” which may have caused a particular rating. Remember, you know your own child best, so you can’t rely completely on a rating system when it comes to what games may or may not be suitable for him, but the ESRB does offer a very reliable, user-friendly and invaluable service.

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons