Sep 28, 2017 | Computer technology
So what is the hottest thing in IT support right now? It may not be the emoji. But instead, it could be the Giphy. What is Giphy? It’s the next best sticker.
These stickers are more than just toys. The Giphy makers think they could be onto the next step in visual communication. Because of this confidence, the company launched Giphy Sticker Embed. Just go to their website. Then, grab and drop your favorite Giphy stickers anywhere you want. You can put them on any desktop or mobile web page. It’s a Javascript plugin you can add to a website.
So basically, use can use any of Giphy’s sticker packs. Or, if you want to get creative, make your own Giphy’s. When you see a cartoon on a page, just stick it anywhere on your page. So what is Giphy? Why do this? Because Giphy leaders and execs think this will lead to website conversation and communication. They think users will use these stickers, maybe share them with friends, or even use them as screenshots. Furthermore, some say this could be a marketing tool. If you want to try it out, go to Thought Catalogue and look up Giphy.
I saw some demonstrations and examples. Between you and me, they look really tacky. Why would I want to see cartoons and thinks slither on my web page like snakes? I guess one would say the emoji looks tacky, but at least the emoji is at one place. That’s what I like about the emoji, and doesn’t that send a message? Yes, the Giphy could start a conversation, but what kind of talk would it start? I could be wrong. I’ve been in computer repair for many years, so I’ve been wrong on some things before. So what is Giphy? And will it work you you?
Sep 14, 2017 | Computer technology, News
I talk about robots quite a bit because it’s a huge technological trend. Some love it, but I’m weary of it at best. Two stories confirm it. So here’s a robot report: It’s hardly anything nice.
A robot conducted a classical music concert in Pisa, Italy. But it wasn’t just any concert; it was the?Lucca Philharmonic orchestra. This is one of the most prestigious orchestras of all time. We can thank Swiss tech firm ABB. In fact, they called the concert International Festival of Robotics. They also named the robot YiMi. Keep in mind YiMi lead the orchestra; a robot telling humans how to play their music! Now ABB insists this won’t replace human orchestras…not yet. But we’ll see.
However, this next robot report is far more disturbing. In Japan, the latest craze is robots that will marry and have sex with lonely guys. But wait…it gets worse. Because apparently, these robots can be trained to kill you. Hackers and crooks can exploit robots’ deficiencies. Then, these hackers can control all the robots’ movements. Also, they can do whatever these crooks tell them to, whether it be theft, rape, murder, dismemberment. You think I’m reading from a sci-fi movie script?
This robot report keeps tech leaders and cyber security experts up at night. Even Elon Musk warns of how dangerous IT technology and robots can be. Cyber security leader Dr. Nick Patterson believes these robots can go I, Robot on us at any moment. I’m just a blogger out a computer service shop in Boston. I’m not much of anybody, so go ahead and laugh at me and call me crazy. But when you have a billionaire tech leader and genius ?like Elon Musk sounding the alarm, maybe we should listen. When top cyber security experts say this, maybe we should listen. So you think the robot concert is heart warming? Let’s see how heart warming it is when thousands of musicians are out of jobs, and the arts are totally destroyed. Are we heading for the end of humanity, or am I just paranoid?
Sep 6, 2017 | Computer technology
September is a big month for computer technology. Because it’s the month many tech companies release their new products. However, Apple wastes no time. Let’s see Apple’s biggest features and selling points for 2017.
Yes, the Home Button is an Apple staple since 2007. But today, that button has a pressure sensor. This year, the central square circle is gone, and isn’t coming back. I don’t know if this is going to help or hinder iPhone 8 sales. Now they’re using on-screen home buttons. Then there are ear pods. I talked about this yesterday, and how they own most of the ear pod business…for now.
Apple displays improved big time over the years. They expect iPhone 8 to have edge-to-edge display. That means you will see no edges and more screen than ever. For years, many people used fingerprints instead of passwords to unlock their phone. Then, Apple Pay let you use your smartphone as a credit/debit. But now, Apple 8 may put the reader under the display. We have to talk about voice technology, since it’s now so popular. They’re expecting Siri to release new voices. There’s also a new speaker coming, called the Home Pod. Even the new Apple Store is getting a new look. They’re also doing better promoting more apps.
Those are just some of Apple’s biggest features. They better have some better ones. Because in recent years, everyone has stepped up their games. Androids do a great job now with on-screen home buttons. Yes, they dominate ear pods. But other companies are moving Heaven and Earth to take that market. And they will…one day. And when it comes to voice technology, Siri is no longer the first thing that comes to mind. For me, it’s Alexa. Their Apple store has been slipping too. What I’m trying to say is, Apple isn’t the only candy store in town. And they need big features and selling points to compete. Will Apple gain ground or lose ground this fall and upcoming holiday season?
Aug 29, 2017 | Computer technology
So there is an IFA show taking place in Berlin, Germany? But what does this have to do with us in America, and those who come in our Boston computer service shop? Quite a bit. Because a European electronic show can showcase what might be coming to a shop near you. So lets’ look at gadgets at the IFA show.
First of all, the IFA show represents every major global tech company: Samsung, Microsoft, Dell, LG, Motorola, and more. They say Samsung will display their new smartwatches, like Gear Fit 2 Pro. If they’re trying to get in the smartwatch race, now is a good time to get to promoting. Also, anything to take focus off their latest scandal. They also expect Motorola to launch their latest smartphone, the Moto X4. Among it’s qualities, it has a curving screen, duel cameras, and could become their flagship device. Furthermore, LG expects to launch their V30. Among other things, it comes with a fingerprint sensor, dual cameras, and a Quad DAC system.
But wait…there’s more. Microsoft and Dell combine to take advantage of the VR craze. They call it the Dell Visor. They plan on releasing it at the IFA show. So you know they’re keeping details at a minimum. But we know they will use 1440×1440 LCD panels, as well as extra padding. You can wear it over glasses. Now that’s something you can’t say about all VR headset technology. When you’re done, you can flip back to reality without even taking off the headset. Because in 2017 America, reality will likely have you wanting to put the VR world back on. And put it on a hurry. They’ll be other companies to showcase other things. However, the Samsung Galaxy 8 won’t be one of them. They figured, there’s been enough talk about that already. What would you like to see come out of the IFA show?
Aug 28, 2017 | Computer technology, News
Hurricane Harvey slammed into Texas last weekend. However, the rains keep coming, and have little end in sight. So before it’s over, the devastation could rival that of Hurricanes Sandy. But how does technology help Hurricane Harvey victims?
I have Facebook friends living in that area. People keep us up to date, and letting us know they’re okay. So say what you want about Facebook, but this is a huge blessing. Imagine the worry that eliminates for loved ones. You can use other social media outlets to do the same. Then you have Airbnb. This app offers free housing to Hurricane Harvey victims at least until September 1.
Through Twitter, the American Red Cross let people know they can donate through texting. You can visit this website, then follow the simple instructions. The deduction is simple and immediately gets to where it’s needed. Tech giants like Apple are accepting donations through their iTunes store. In fact, several organizations follow suit. Twitter even promotes a charity where Hurricane Harvey victims can shelter their pets. The US Coast Guard takes to Twitter as well. They remind people if they’re going into trouble, please call 911. And if the lines get pretty busy, keep calling.
There are other ways IT support and technology helps Hurricane Harvey victims. These are just a few. So if anyone is in need, please take advantage of these services. Now is not the time to be prideful. And if anyone wants to give, or help in any other way, technology can help you do that as well. If you don’t have it today, or right now, I’m certain the donation websites will be there when you’re ready. I have a feeling the people of Houston/South Texas will need our help for a long time after this. And I want to thank those in the hard hit areas for keeping the rest of us up to date. How can you help?
Aug 24, 2017 | Computer technology
The statistics are alarming. Around 40 million Americans suffer from depression and anxiety disorders. Also, 300 million worldwide fight this daily struggle. But here in America, only half get the help they need. However, Google is trying to change that. Google Search fights depression and stigmas.
So now, Google Search offers a questionnaire. ?It has official medical backing; it also answers questions you may have about depression. This isn’t exactly a diagnosis, but you can take it to your doctor and take the first step of getting help. At the very lease, it raises awareness and helps break the glass ceiling. Furthermore, this questionnaire is anonymous. This takes out any shame the person may have.
Google isn’t the first IT support conglomerate to help fight depression and other mental illnesses. Other companies are working around the clock to provide information and treatment. Because it can literally be a matter of life and death. For example, Facebook tests AI to detect suicidal comments. When they see it, they can direct the Facebook user to local treatment facilities. Then, Instagram offers support to friends who have users who put up concerning posts. Google Search fights depression by making sure you get the right?information!
Now I know there has been a lot of talk about fake news and information. Sometimes fake news can be nothing, and even humorous. But there is nothing humorous about depression and anxiety disorders. So in this case, fake news can cost people their lives, literally. So I hope Google Search and others are serious about getting people the right information at the right time. I also hope these efforts fights stigmas and stereotypes. Look, this world today can push anybody to the edge of the cliff, no matter what field you’re in. Even some of the most respected celebrities of our generation struggles with these issues. It’s good to get help, talk to someone, or seek counseling. I’m glad Google Search is making it easier. What more can the tech industry do to fight depression and stigmas?
