More Techie's Tool Box Videos Coming Up!

I have been getting numerous requests via our Facebook page asking when more "Techie's Toolbox" videos were going to drop on the YouTube Channel again...  

My response is officially, 'Coming Soon!  Very Soon!'. 

A little background on the 'Tool Box' videos: I started posting a couple videos highlighting tools and free/cheap software that can be a valuable asset to those in the IT field.  It doesn't matter if you are only repairing friend's or family computers in your spare time.  Or if you are a field technician needing a few more flexible options in your tool kit.

After making a couple of these videos, the response was somewhat small, and people seemed to want help with more Linux/Ubuntu based issues.  So we spun several series of videos based on Linux and Ubuntu.

Unfortunately, life has been pretty busy for a while and my attention had to shift off of the website and videos for a little while.  Now I'm shifting gears in my spare time and trying to start contributing again.  So hang on tight, we've got more good stuff up our sleeves.

Here is what I need to ask from my loyal readers/viewers: FEEDBACK.

I need to know what you folks would like me to cover?  Want help finding the proper tools to analyze hard disk space, cloud backup/storage services, backup solutions, antivirus support, remote support, etc.  Drop a line in the comments section below or swing by our Facebook page and leave a suggestion.  If you drop a suggestion, be sure to leave a username and I'll give you a shout out in the video.

Drop by our Facebook Page and leave a comment at: TechieSmarts on Facebook

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App of The Week: Shadowgun Deadzone

Our App of the Week for the week of March 1nd, 2013 is: Shadowgun: Deadzone.  As always, we always try to highlight apps that are cheap and/or free in most cases.  There are exceptions where an app is just so awesome, that paying more than $4 or $5 dollars shouldn't be a problem.  But keeping true to our idea that most of us are on a budget (and or just cheapskates like me), ShadowGun: Deadzone is a FREE app.  And unlike our usual App of Week pick, this game is cross platform on both iOS device and Android devices.  So let's jump into what really makes this game standout.

What is it?

Shadowgun: Deadzone is an online multiplayer, third person shooter title.  It follows the release of the original Shadowgun game for iOS and Android created by MadFinger Games.  This game is absolutely gorgeous.

The Story

As mentioned above, Shadowgun: Deadzone is an online multiplayer game that throws the player into either a deathmatch style game or a capture point style game.  There is very little by way of story for this app.  It ideally picks up after the events of the original Shadowgun title.  If you missed the original, a "Shadowgun" is basically a professional bounty hunter.  In the original game, you played as John Slade and your mission was to stop a mad scientist from making a mutated army.  So in Deadzone, your character is either a mutant soldier or one of several Shadowgun skins.

Gameplay

The game plays pretty much just like the original Shadowgun title.  It is basically a covered based shooter much like the Gears of War franchise on the Xbox 360.  Meaning, you run and gun and use objects that are scattered around the map to hide behind when you need to get out of the line of fire.  When hiding behind a barrier or your back is pressed against a corner wall, the camera shifts a little providing a view of the action in front of you.  You can then fire from behind cover, which is really handy in a heavy firefight.

The controls are fairly straight forward as well.  On the left side of the screen is a virtual joystick which controls movement.  You aim by sliding your right thumb around the screen.  In the bottom right we have several icons that include aiming/firing, reloading, and sprinting.  In the upper right corner of the screen we have your weapon selection icon, your sprinting meter, and a couple empty inventory spots for certain perks or power ups that you unlock as you play.  These perks can include the ability to drop ammo or health recharge packs, use motion radars, and grenades to name just a few.  Unlike a lot of games that utilize a touch based, onscreen button layout; this one works extremely well with a very low learning curve.

Other Features

What would a game that only offers online multiplayer be without a system for leveling your character?  And Shadowgun: Deadzone offers exactly that.  As you play matches you gain experience points and cash.  Both of these add up over time.  Your cash is used to upgrade weapons and unlock new power up.  Meanwhile, you're experience points builds up your character's level as you play as well.  Here is the important thing, a higher level doesn't necessarily mean a "stronger" character.  It does mean, that someone with a higher level than you, has access to different weapons which in turn may be stronger than those who run lower level characters.  But this is a fair trade off.  As I have been in matches with people who are much higher levels, and still been able to more than hold my own against them.

Character Loadout Screen

There is also a "Casino" feature built into the games main menu.  Each day your account will be given a token (or 2 or 3 depending) and you can use these tokens to take a spin on the Slot Machine.  The reward for playing the Slot Machine is in game gold.  This gold can be used to buy cosmetic items such as skins, hats, etc. for your character.  As the tokens are given to your account, you do not have to pay "real-world" money for these.

There is also a buddy list, you can log in with your Facebook account, and you can chat (and voicechat if you have a premium account).

Game Modes

Currently there are only two game modes: Deathmatch and Zone Control.  Deathmatch is your traditional free-for-all game mode.  Where every player loads out into the map and spends the matches time limit trying to frag each other.  He who has the highest killscore wins the match.  Meanwhile, Zone Control is a little more tactical.  Each map is contains a series of "Control Points" which also acts as spawn points.  Two teams (red and blue) each fight for the duration of the match to gain control of more points than the other team.  Eventually this leads to some pretty epic battles over points in the middle of a map.  I spend a lot of time playing Zone Control as the strategy aspect of this game mode is a lot of fun.

Premium Features?

So at this point you may be saying, "Wait a minute? A game with these features, and it's free?".  That's right, it is free to download and free to play.  There are a couple ad screens you will see while playing, but the ads are for Shadowgun: Deadzone itself.  Players have the option to upgrade to a "Premium Account" if they choose.

Premium accounts get the following:

-50% more Money and Gold for Playing Matches

-Increased Experience Points for Matches Played

-Access to Premium Servers

-Voice Chat

Premium features can be purchased using your in-game gold or you can drop some "real-world" money for it as a microtransaction.  Premium accounts can be:

-1 day 

-3 days ($00.99)

-1 week ($00.99 USD)

-1 month ($2.99 USD)

-3 months ($9.99 USD)

For example, I ran the month of January as a premium account.  And the immediate advantage is being able to change between more than just the original 2 character skins.  For me the cost is very little and if it counts towards helping the developers build updates for the game; then I am happy to support it.  The Premium cost is a one time charge and no recurring.  So when it runs out, you are dropped back down to a "Free Play" account status.  Which means you receive less money and experience points.

Overall

This game should be considered a AAA title.  It offers gameplay that I have yet to find in any other mobile game.  And it feels like a big-console experience that you can hold in your hand.  With great controls and graphics and an online experience like no other on a mobile device.  I highly recommend this game.  With a limited selection of maps and only two game modes, I would love to see this game grow to offer more as time goes on.  But even with those limitations, I still give this game 5 Stars.

To play it, you will need a device that has at least 512MB of RAM.  For iOS device users this includes: iPhone 4 (and newer), iPod Touch 5th Generation, and iPad 2 (and newer).  For Android users a modern device with at least 512MB of RAM and running Android Honeycomb and newer.

I have been playing this on both my Samsung Galaxy S2 and my Google Nexus 7 and it plays smooth and fluidly on both devices.

Check it out:

Madfinger Games 

Google Play Store- Shadowgun: Deazone  (FREE)

Apple's App Store- Shadowgun: Deadzone (FREE)

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Twitter's Token Limits vs Falcon Pro

I was considering featuring the Falcon Pro Twitter app for Android devices as one of our weekly app picks.  However, I am kind of glad that I didn't.  But not for the reason you may first think of. The app is an outstanding Twitter client for Android devices.  It is very fluid and offers a smooth user experience when using Twitter.  In my opinion, it is just much sleeker and useful than most other Twitter clients I have used (including the official Twitter client for Android).

So what is the problem?

You may be thinking that the developer might have nerfed some features or did some funky new thing with an update.  But none of that is true either.  The issue appears to be on Twitter's end.  How can this be?  Are they trying to choke out "3rd party" developers?  Don't they want people to use their service?

How: Twitter's API grants access to their service via "access tokens".  If you have ever used a Facebook or Twitter app that allows you to login using your account for a social media service instead of just setting up yet another account; then you have used access tokens too.  This is a popular way to sign into sites and services using mobile devices as well.  So, an access token is delivered to your app or device when you access your account for a particular service using one of these "other" client type apps.  Simple enough.  On the end user side, this makes it easy to use other services and clients without managing multiple logins.  There are some other challenges on the service side, such as token limitations.

For example, Twitter's access token limitation is 100k for a 3rd party type app or service.  Once you hit the 100,000 token limit.  That is it, new user's are no longer able to authenticate their app on Twitter.  Meaning if you buy a Twitter client app on the Google Play Store, and it can't authenticate on Twitter, you have useless app (at least from the purchaser's point of view).

This is exactly what happened to Joaquim Verges who is the developer of the acclaimed Falcon Pro app.  His app hit the 100k wall in less than 3 months, and that is "all she wrote".  Mr. Verges has since started a petition to try and get the community feedback to help encourage Twitter to raise this limit, but per the Falcon Pro Twitter account (@falcon_android) he has already received a correspondence from Twitter stating:

So let me get this straight, does this mean that Twitter won't raise the token limit at all?  Or if Falcon Pro offered some feature that Twitter's "official" client didn't have, it would then raise the limit?  The later is how I read it.  I know that Twitter controls what, who, how, and when can utilize their service.  I completely understand that.

But at the same time is it right of Twitter to slam a door in the face of a successful app developer?

It doesn't take a person long to realize this app has a pretty good user base by looking at the apps reviews on Google Play Store.

So what happens now?

Well, for Mr. Verges he has done only what one could sensibly do.  He has reached out to the community for participation in a petition and has contacted Twitter with his request.  At this point, Twitter has shot down his request; and I honestly don't know how much a petition would really help at this point.  In the meantime, Mr. Verges has placed a disclaimer on the app's Google Play Store page informing user's and potential buyers not to purchase the app due to the token limit from Twitter. He has also marked up the app price to $132.13 USD.  Not sure how he came to pick this price, but that's how much it costs now in attempt to discourage future user's from purchasing the app thus restricting it's growing user base without being forced to just shut down.

And that is not all.  The app's store page also requests that any user who is no longer using the app to please release the token from their app.  That will free up a token so other people can use the app would essentially drop the count below 100,000 tokens (at least until it is used by someone else).

My advice?

I am not an app developer (or much of a programmer either for that matter); but if I were Mr. Verges my next step would be to prove to Twitter how awesome my app was.  I would drop back and punt for lack of better puns.  Go through the official Twitter app and try to work up a feature or two that the official Twitter app doesn't offer.  And build on it.  Then see what Twitter's excuse is for not raising the cap.  My guess would be they will probably still shoot the request down, and probably add a couple new aforementioned features as well.

To Twitter...

As a company offering a social networking service to the internet community, I understand you're limitations concerning 3rd party developers, apps, and even services.  However, for Falcon Pro to hit this benchmark means that there is definitely something great about this app. Why not make Mr. Verges an offer to help with the current development of the official Twitter app?  Instead of choking out these smaller developers who make awesome apps, why not bring them on board and help build what you currently have going?  Just makes sense to me.

What happens now?

Well, Mr. Verges has tweeted out that he will continue to update the app and support it for current user's as he uses the client himself, and refuses to use an app that is outdated.  For which, I cannot blame him.  And personally, I will continue to use the app as well.  And in the meantime will continue to follow the progress on this and will report back if anything changes.

Ways to get involved:

It may seem somewhat ironic, but why not show Mr. Verges some support over on the Falcon Pro Twitter Account.

Go sign the petition: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/extend-falcon-pro

After all, Mr. Verges isn't the first and probably won't be the last that this type of thing happens to. Unfortunately, if we as the community don't get involved then this will continue to happen to other apps even across other services.

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Getting the Word Out: The Amazing Power of the Web

This is a befitting post, seeing as how it has been a while since a new post has gone up here on the site. Years ago now (it feels like); we started seeing buzzwords like: "Web 2.0", "Dynamic Content", "User Created", etc.  And I heard several interviews and read several stories on tech reports/commentators saying the internet would eventually gravitate towards a more friendly space for user created content.  And then sites like YouTube popped up.  Even being what some considered to be fly-by-night fads in pop culture.  I mean seriously, who wants to see videos of people doing stupid things? lol

However, as time has moved on and the technology evolved; it is becoming more accessible to create your own content without a doubt.  And throughout the growth of media sharing sites and resources we have seen an infancy of this "Web 2.0".  Where teenage girls cry because their pop star crush got committed to rehab, or yet another skateboarder kid grinds his skateboard off of a roof and into the bushes or a pool.  Sure, we may get kicks out of those kinds of videos.  But that isn't what it's all about.  And people are starting to stand up and take notice.

I find it simply amazing that we have access to the venues that have only previously been available to those who could buy it.  Think back to even 12 years ago (year 2000).  The web was still basically used for checking email, news, looking at static web pages (for the most part), and the start of widespread online gaming.  Where news and television networks pretty much owned to media outlets.  Now flash forward to today, 2012.  Everything from televisions, phones, books, and even certain refrigerators are web connected.  Our phones have WAY more power than the technology used to put man on the moon.  And we carry them in our pockets and purses.  And technology is continually growing and information is literally everywhere.

Yes, we have gone way past the point of technology "pissing contests" and trying to see who has the faster desktop computer or the best graphics card or the most RAM when compared to our buddies computers.  Instead, technology has become much more of a "meta" (for lack of a better word) experience.  Meaning most of us are constantly connected and sharing something with someone or a group of someones.  Even if your content seems trivial, you are sharing it.  Posting to sites like Facebook, Twitter, chatting online with friends, video chatting, or even making videos for YouTube.  And in the process you are adding your information, experiences, and memories to a giant database which is becoming our present-history.  Today's children will continue to build upon the foundations of concepts like social networking, media creation, and communication and at the rate in which this technology is growing...We may not even recognize this foundation in another 30 years.  So what are we going to leave for them to grow from.  Videos of another "Baseball Nut Shot" or someone ranting because they are obsessed with a singer.  Why not leave something more meaningful?

These are just some simple musings and observations I have made over the last several weeks when browsing through YouTube and looking at sites like Facebook.  And one thing I have noticed with all of these social/media venues is: we all have a voice.  And one thing we want, is to be heard.  Maybe it's the old saying of "everybody wants their 15 minutes of fame".  But maybe nowadays, this statement should be revised.  Maybe it should be: "we all have a story" or something similar.

I have said all of that to say this.  The web isn't in it's infancy anymore.  And it hasn't been for some time.  But it seems that people are starting to really wake up and see what tools we have available.  Twenty years ago we relied on broadcasting talents like Walter Cronkite and Peter Jennings to give us the important news we needed to know about.  In our local communities our Sunday Newspapers were to the source of "What's Happening?".  But not anymore.  Now we look to sites like Google to tell us what we need to know.

Yet again now, in 2012; anybody with a cell phone or a computer/tablet with internet access can break news stories anywhere in the world.  And within a portion of a second, they can fire out a quick note about what is going on to be seen by potentially millions of people all over the globe.  People who are considered well versed or experts in their crafts suddenly have an outlet for teaching others their professions and passions.  People whose writings would have only ever seen the inside of a spiral bound notebook and probably stuck in a box or thrown away years later; now have a place to publish their work and have an equal chance at gaining notoriety with a whole community of fans or unsuspecting peers.  This is the power we have at our finger tips now.

And I leave you with the words of Spiderman: "With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility" and this has never been more fitting than it is now.  Sure, we can use these social media outlets for fun.  And that's a big part of it.  But if you have continued to read this post to this point, I call you to action to keep an open mind and maybe see how you can contribute (in a positive way) to our current web.  Share something encouraging with someone else on Facebook (publicly), or find your passion and use the web to teach others.  And you may find that your voice speaks more volume than you may have ever known.

Chime in with you comments below.

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Manually Setup a Dual Boot with Ubuntu & Windows 7

This video is a response to some questions I have recently received concerning setting up a dual boot system.  I have covered this topic in two other videos/blog posts.  However, both of those videos approached this goal by two different methods as does this video.  Previously we setup our dual boot with 'Wubi' and by using the 'Side-by-Side Install' method.  But what happens if you are using an older Ubuntu Live CD or a different Linux Distro entirely?  Those options may not necessarily work for you.  In this case you'll need to manually setup the partitions and let Ubuntu install to a new, empty partition.  So how do we do this?

There are a few things you need to do first.  And these are good things to do even when setting up your dual boot via the ways we have already covered.
#1- Defrag your computer.
Why? Easy! When you use your computer on a daily basis files and data become fragmented.  This simply means that the data is becoming somewhat scattered across the free space of your hard drive.  This adversly effects your hard drive in that it may slow down read/write times of your drive in relation to your computing tasks and it can take up excess hard drive space.

By running a defrag on your hard drive, a lot of this fragmentation will be cleaned up.  So in short, even if you have no plans to dual boot; running a defrag every once in a while is still a good idea.

#2- You'll more than likely want to have Windows installed first. The installation of GRUB tends to play along better if it can see Windows first.

#3- If your Windows install isn't a freshly installed version, you will want to backup any important data on your Windows machine.  Just in case things go south or you accidentally format the wrong partition, etc.  Believe me, things like this can happen if you're not cautious during these installs.

If you're good to go with the precautions mentioned above, then follow along with the video:





Manually Setup an Ubuntu-Windows 7 Dual Boot

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As always thank you for watching and be sure to swing by our YouTube Channel and Subscribe.  That way you can stay up to date whenever we add new content!
http://www.youtube.com/techiesmarts

You can also follow me on Twitter at:
http://www.twitter.com/techiesmarts

Or you can find me on Facebook & Google+!
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/qwpd4i
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If you have any questions or comments feel free to drop us a comment below or on any of the social networks we use.  You can also email me at:
help_me@techie.com

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Our Facebook Page!

Just a reminder, be sure to follow our Facebook Page to stay updated on when new stories roll out on the site.  And for some extra goodies from time to time!

http://on.fb.me/qwpd4i

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Is there a Siri for Android? Part 2: Skyvi

Skyvi was the second app I tried out during my quest for a 'Siri-like' app for Android devices.  You can read my post below about my hands-on with Iris incase you missed it (click here: my hands-on with Iris).  I have to say I kind of like Skyvi a little better.  The interface is a little more cluttered and not quite as slick looking as Iris.  However, it is very clear from the get-go what you can do with Skyvi.  When you launch the app, the initial screen you are taken to has a series of categories or buttons you can use to explore assorted questions and tasks you can have Skyvi do for you.

In a similar test to my use of Iris, I started off by asking some simple questions pertaining to things like the weather, my location, etc.  And all seemed to work much like Iris.  But where I really started having fun was letting Skyvi post status updates on Facebook and Twitter for me.  After pairing your Facebook and Twitter accounts with Skyvi it is literally as simple as tapping the microphone icon and saying "Update my Facebook Status".

You will get a voice prompt from Skyvi asking what you want your status to say and a voice box will pop up.  Simply tell it what you want and it will automagically send your status update to Facebook (it will read it back to you once it's posted, so be careful what you say first time around).  The Twitter update works the same way.  Out of the four updates I posted through Skyvi only one of them seemed to be misinterpreted.  Pretty much the same rule of thumb applies to Skyvi as with Iris.  Speak somewhat slow and very clear to get the proper results the first time.

You can even have Skyvi read your Facebook and Twitter updates from friends and you can use it to write a comment on a Facebook friend's wall.  Pretty awesome!  Skyvi is free and is a lot of fun to play with.

To check out Skyvi for yourself, swing by the Android Market at: Skyvi for Android

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Facebook Poll Is Up!

Trying something a little different.  I just posted a poll on our Facebook Page!  I want to get some feedback from our readers/watchers here on the site and on our YouTube Channel as well.  So swing by our Facebook Page and vote on which Linux Distribution you'd like to see reviewed!

Be sure to 'Like' our FB Page while your there!

Click here: http://on.fb.me/qwpd4i

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Facebook's Timeline Feature Goes to Court...

If you have seen the new Facebook Timeline feature, you're probably thinking that looks cool, but...(Where the... can be any random thought or idea).  Well according to Timelines.com; they claim it will not only infringe upon their trademarks but also put them on the endangered list.

On Thursday, Timelines.com filed a lawsuit against the social networking giant on the grounds that Facebook's latest feature will lead people to believe that Timelines.com and Facebook are affiliated (which they are not).  However, Timelines.com does hold the trademark for both their URL (the .com) and the word timelines.

Looks like Mr. Zuckerberg is in a little hot water (again).  Personally, I say do what they do best (and have done in the past).  Quit screwing around with the Facebook layout.  If they search the web, they will know that their user's hate it when they switch things up.  Because with every new layout change, they always find a way to obscure the line between Facebook, their users, and privacy settings and all in the name of progress.  Quite making things confusing, and continue making your money the way you always have.

My response to their latest changes, I think that the release of Google+ had them spooked.  And as a draw to either keep user's on Facebook or at least keep Facebook in the headlines during that time was to roll out immediate changes to the layout and immediately start teasing shots of the Timeline feature to keep people hooked in.

For more info on the new Facebook feature, checkout: http://www.facebook.com/about/timeline

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What Happens to Your Online Identity When You Die?

That is the big question since we all are so attached to online services, email accounts, online billing services, etc.  What happens to all that information in event you kick the bucket?  I'm sure there are more than a few accounts on Facebook and Twitter server's that are in a limbo due to their account holder being deceased (unfortunately, I know of a couple profile's like this).  Purely due to the fact nobody had access to a password after the fact.

I'm sure some people trust their loved one's or at least a spouse with this information (especially for things like banking and bill paying).  But for other situations, there is a solution outside of jotting all of your passwords down and placing them in a bank vault or security box somewhere.  At least this is the aim for PassMyWill.com.

How does it work?  Pretty simple actually.  You set up an account, and log your passwords with your user account on their site.  They will poll your social networks (Facebook and Twitter) and in the event that a lack of posts or status updates happens to be noticed, the account email (your email address) will get a verification email.  If indeed you are deceased, the people whom you specified at sign up to receive this information will get an encrypted version of your password, and will have to use their key to get access.

Not a bad idea in theory.  If you've ever seen some of those movies where they have a reading of the will after a loved one dies; and that one, long lost grandchild gets a mysterious key to a hidden safety security box...Yeah, this can be kind of like that.  I just wonder how many people will even worry over whether their Facebook page is taken care of post-mortem?

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Is Internet Access Up There With Air, Water, and Food on Your List?

Apparently so, according to a recent survey.  I know a lot of surveys are crap with numbers and outcomes doctored to sway the informational data presented in the first place.  But this was too good to pass up.  A survey was conducted in which roughly 32% of the people surveyed admitted that the internet is as vital to their everyday life as our basic necessities (i.e.: water, food, air, etc.).  And most of them were in their 20's.

It's true, we are the connected generation.  But how far is to far.  I know I have days were I need to 'unplug' for a little while.  Where the constant data input that is streaming into my brain from either reading, watching, or using some for of technology becomes quite a strain.  In other words, ever have one of those days where you didn't mind if the cell phone battery died?  Yep, that's what I mean.

And it gets worse, the main culprit appears to be...*drum roll please*...Social Media.

Yep again, the survey points out that most people affected with said internet addiction check their status and social networks at least three times an hour.  (I may be guilty of this at some points in my day, but not all day).    I guess things do change after all.  I'm going to sound old here (and I'm only 29).

But when I was a kid, we had a things called television and a Nintendo.  These were our only distractions.  We didn't have 5 year old kids with smartphones taking over the world.  And if I would have said the word 'twitter' at the diner table, I would have been in big trouble...  And a 'facebook' was a school annual you got at the end of every school year, and all of your friends would sign it before summer started.

But now things are quite different.  And if you want to discuss it further, feel free to drop me a line on our Facebook page.  :)

In the meantime I will be consuming my fair share of air and internet.

To see the full article on the survey: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2011/09/22/web_more_important_than_air_water_and_food/

Happy surfing!

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Google+ is open to all!

This past week Google+ opened to the public.  Honestly, it was probably great timing on their part.  Especially since Facebook rolled out their rather crap-lousy new look this week as well.

I'm sure that enabled quite a bit of extra traffic flow into Google's Social Networking venture.  Personally, I have been playing around with Google+ for several weeks (I was invited by a friend, thanks Greg!).  And it is pretty nice.  It has a handful of cool features.  One of which I am eager to try out is the 'Hangout' feature.  It seems pretty unique sounding; in that it is basically a Live Video Chat with a group of people.  But from my understanding, he who talks the loudest takes center stage.  Which is kind of a cool concept.  I just hope it doesn't fill up with loud, crazy people trying to out talk each other for speaking rights.  :)

The other day, I had a friend ask me 'What is Google+ like?'.  And the best way I can describe would be: if Facebook and Twitter had a kid.  Tha kid may look something like Google+.  You can follow celebrities (or non-celebrities) and at the same time keep abreast of what your friends and family are doing.  That makes it pretty unique in my book.  The 'Circles' organization system is nice to play with too.  'Circles' allow you to prevent that 'How the crap do I know that person?' feeling I tend to bump into on other sites.  And I will be the first to admit it, but when I first jumped into Google+ it just felt strange.

It had that kind of creepy, ghost town feel to it.  However, in the last few weeks as more and more people have been jumping in, it now has a really nice populated feeling to it.  The mobile app is awesome as well.  It's well laid out, and it works pretty smoothly.  It is lacking the 'Hangout' feature; but everything else seems to be there (and it feels comfortable to use too, not imposing).

So, if you're looking to try out the new kid on the block, or even if you are tired of Facebook's new look; than swing by Google+.  If you do, add me (I have a link on the right side of the website).

See you there!

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New Facebook Layout?! What the crap?

Okay, we all knew Facebook would be changing up it's layout before too long.  But holy crap, when I logged in this afternoon I was assaulted by a platoon of pop up boxes telling me how to use their new layout.  How the crap is this accessible to everyone?  I went to make my first status update of the day and I had to answer three prompts before I could post it.  I kind like the update section at the top right of the page, because it looks cool.

But otherwise, the remaining 85% of the page is complete information overkill.  And by way of their new 'Smart Lists' is feels almost like they are recycling ideas from Google+.  If you are using the Google+ app for Android, you can swipe from the left to right and access a 'Who's Nearby' screen that will give you posts from people near your geographic location.  Now Facebook is doing something similar?

What do you think?  Like it?  Information Overload?  Let me know!

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Social Media + Me = Wore Out

The other day a friend asked me, "How come you don't post as much on Facebook as you used too?".

I had a simple answer, and it was "I don't know, I guess the new wore off".  And I suppose that's probably right.  I'm starting to see the same thing among other people on my friends list.  These are people who at one point (probably when they first signed up) would post every little detail from their life.  From what their lunch was right down to saying goodnight to their Facebook friends.  Now, we are lucky to get a 'Good Morning' from them without first being spoken too.  This isn't the case for everybody, but for some their online presence isn't nearly as potent as it once was.

Could it be that we (as user's of these social networks) are getting a little tired of it all?  Maybe some people are becoming so overwhelmed that they just decided to withdraw altogether.  Between keeping up with their favorite celebrities on Twitter, to posting their latest picture capture to Instagram, to keeping up with that long lost buddy on Facebook.  Could it be we need a digital vacation?

I'm not saying I don't understand or see the value of all of these different social networks.  Because frankly I use most of them to some extent.  And they are fun, but sometimes we need to turn off the device or unplug for a little while.  For example, not long after my friend from earlier asked why my posts have become scarce.  I simply quite posting altogether for a few days.  To my amazement, a few days later I found myself with something to say and made a post on my wall on Facebook.  And since posts have been somewhat regular, and meaningful.  Not just crap like: "lalalalala...bored" or "txt the cell" (which are both real posts people on my friends list have put up).

So if you find yourself trying to be social with an antisocial attitude take a few days away.  Trust me, Facebook and Twitter will be there when you come back.  And on that note, I need to go deny some Farmville Requests.

Have a great night!

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How to Post from Your Website to Twitter or Facebook

For those of you who run blogs or websites, you may have a need to be able to update your Twitter or Facebook Feeds all from one source.  And making it an automatic process is even better because then it can "just work" for you.  If you're in need of a service like this, check out Twitterfeed.com.

TwitterFeed makes it extremely easy to pull this off.  The service is free to use, and includes some basic analytics info (basically it will count the links clicked through from the destination: Facebook or Twitter).  So here is how to set it up.

1- Visit http://eda543f2.tinylinks.co and sign up for a free account.
2- After logging into your account, click the "Create New Feed" button at the top right.

3- You'll need to name the feed and have the RSS feed address handy.

4- If you're not sure what you're RSS feed is, you'll need to check into your blog hosting platform.  With Blogger you'll find it on the "Settings" tab, then locate the "Site Feed" header, and scroll down to "Post Feed Redirect URL".  You'll need to burn in the feed using something like Feedburner.  Once your feed has been burned in you can use the RSS address in the feed text box on TwitterFeed.  Go ahead and enter that in the second box (see the screenshot above).

5- Go ahead and click the "Advanced Settings" and you can choose different time intervals for the feed to update, which URL shortening service to use, etc.  Once done there, click the button "Continue to Step 2".

6- You'll get a message saying the update was complete (as long as you're RSS Feed Address is correct).  Now you choose what services to have the feed published to.  Services available are:
-Facebook
-Twitter
-LinkedIn
-Hellotxt
-Statusnet

Simply select the service to publish to (or services as needed) and click the "All Done" button at the bottom of the screen. That's it.  You're done.  Now you're recent posts will be published with links back to the original source to the services of your choice.

Checkout TwitterFeed.com

Happy Surfing!

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Google+ Confusion?!

Maybe I'm not thinking about it right, but for some strange reason Google+ feels like complete chaos to me.  lol

I had this same feeling when I started a Facebook profile and moved away from MySpace (back in the day).  However, now I have a Google+ account and for the love of me I can't seem to make myself feel comfortable with their layout/interface/site design.  I currently only have two (inactive) friends and am following one other person.  I have had my Google+ account now for several weeks and seem to keep going back to Facebook for any form of real communication.

Is this just my experience, or are others out there finding the same thing?

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Facebook: Skype Chatting?

So Google released Google+ with the Hangout feature (videochatting).  So the natural progression of things means that now Facebook has to do it too, right?  Seems that way.  Appears that they are working in conjunction with Skype (which is  Microsoft owned).  Is this communication bliss for Skype fans?  Or a fiendish deal set up between one of the largest software companies in the world with the largest social networking company on the world?

So, how does it work?  User's will need to download a plugin which will allow user's to click a button and call a friend from Facebook.  Mr. Zuckerberg went on the record to note that they are leaving the tech from companies such as Skype (that they are/will be partnering with) to the devices of the tech developers.  Unlike Google, who built their new social network primarily themselves and/or implementing tech they purchased and re-purposed   Zuckerberg didn't come out and directly say 'Google+' but might as well have.

For more info on the new Skype/Facebook feature swing by: http://www.skype.com/intl/en-us/get-skype/on-your-computer/windows/beta/?intcmp=ph2

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Google+ You = New Social Network?!

One of the big items in tech news over the course of the last few days has been the debut of Google+.  If you've been hiding away from the news for the last several days; then you may have no clue what Google+ is.  Simply put, it is another Social Networking site (much like Facebook and the now mostly ghost towned MySpace).

So what is Google doing differently? Well off hand, I'm not sure.  Reason being, they are limiting access now in what appears to be a sort of beta testing phase.  But according to the project's website, here are some new features (and new terms you may have to become acquainted with).

-Circles: apparently you can group people into individual circles.  For example in real life: you may play Team Fortress 2 with 5 people, and work with 3 people.  Perhaps you want to keep these 'social circles' separate from each other (much like in real life).  You would create a circle with your gaming buddies and a separate circle for you coworkers.

-Hangouts: basically a section of the site that allows a face to face group chat with people from your circles.  A neat feature, apparently the person speaking the loudest will take the spotlight.  Kind of cool, but potentially annoying as well.

-Sparks: Basically an automatic feed that is shown to you based off of things it thinks you will like to see, read, or watch and can share that on your page.  Still out on this feature, personally think this can get out of control (in theory).

-Huddle: group chat.

-Instant Upload: So, you're out at the mall or really large retail store for which people like to go when they look funny (aka Walmart) and you see something funny.  You're first reaction is to reach for your smartphone and take a picture.  Second reaction, post said picture to your favorite social network to share.  Google+ apparently grants an instant upload feature for pictures and videos.

So, what do you think?  Think Google can topple Zuckerberg's Facebook? Or at best give FB a run for it's money?  Time will tell.  If by chance I get an invite I'll spread the information love from the inside.

Happy Surfing!

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Tech News for the Week!

Well, after a much needed vacation, I'm back.  So here we go.  This weeks tech news!

-A remote stealth combat plane has been unvelied.
-Google invests in Zynga.
-Who's Your Daddy Facebook!

First up this week is more of a future/tech story.  BAE Systems has been developing an unmanned stealth combat plane.  My first question: didn't they see that movie 'Stealth'?  Anyways, the prototype plane is expected to make test flights sometime next year.  Check out this link for a short video clip on the Taranis: http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/lancashire/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8811000/8811475.stm

Second in the news this week, will Google invest money into Zynga?  It seems as though there are rumors!  Google has managed to do an outstanding job building up it's offerings.  From back in 1998 as just a search engine, to building it's own email service, acquiring other services like Youtube, and numerous other projects.  Now it seems as though if they were to invest anything into Zynga, Zynga would be set.  What we know: some leaked reports show Google to have investes $100-200 million in Zynga so far.  We also know that Zynga isn't exactly hurting thanks to it's Mafia Wars and Farmville titles (both games on the popular social network Facebook, in case you didn't know); their estimated revenue is somewhere around $350 million for the first half of 2010.  That's crazy!  Lastly there seems to be a job listing for Google looking for a Project Manager for Games.  Does this mean we will see 'Google Games' or 'Games by Google' sometime in the near future?  I would dare to say that with this partnership the future looks bright for Zynga, and it's one more step to conquering the web world for Google.

Last in the news this week, a New York man (Paul D. Ceglia) has filed a lawsuit claiming that he actually owns some of Facebook.  About 84% to be exact.  Looks like in 2003, Mr. Ceglia and Mr. Zuckerberg (Facebook) struck a contract to make a social network website.  The terms: $1,000 fee and 50% stake in the end product.  Zuckerberg also agreed to an additional 1% stake in the site everyday until it was done.  Equaling his 84%.  Oops, Mr. Zuckerberg.

Facebook is commenting that they will fight the claim and that it is 'frivolous'.  What does it sound like to you?  Is this guy just out to get some cash, or did Zuckerberg make a bad deal?  Time will tell.  Check out the article and a copy of the claim here: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-20010349-93.html

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This Week In Tech News-Week of 3-18-2010

Well it's been kind of a slow week in Tech News this week. So this week we actually have a valid story that all Facebook user's need to be aware of.  Also a hacker controls a bunch of cars, God of War 3, and a new Predator movie.  Read on.

Attention fellow Facebookers: Be Careful.  According to an article at PCWorld emails have been flying around to Facebook users informing them that their password has been reset and requires the user to download the email attachment which contains the nasty virus/malware.  Effects of this trojan are: compromised accounts, harvested password and other information, and potentially even botnet code may be installed.  So, I know most people are aware of the consequences of opening email attachments; but due to the large amount of people who use Facebook, who may be an average computer user innocently believing this email scam, please do not open this attachment.

Always keep in mind, and reputable website that you trust with your password/account info should never reset a password and email a new one to you.  Nor should they ever contact you via email and ask you to email them you password or any other personal information.  Always be cautious and aware of the sites you use and how they interact with their users/customers.


Next up in the news: 20 year old hacks into car system and remote controls car behavior, then gets arrested.  This took place in Austin, TX and affected about 100 cars.  A disgruntled employee of the Texas Auto Center used a co-workers access credentials to gain access to the dealerships remote vehicle immobilization system.  What is this systems purpose?  Easy, car is purchased by a customer, customer then decides not to pay towards the car loan, dealer can deactivate the car.  I imagine this could have some other handy uses as well especially if the car is stolen.  Pretty handy and could no doubt save car owners a lot of trouble.  Until now.

The employee used the system to set off car alarms, destroy customer information, and even went as far as change names on customer leases to celebrity names, and he disabled the cars from starting.  Officials linked the hacker's IP address to the access logs of the system and made the arrest.  He was charged with 'breaching computer security'.  To see the full story check here: http://www.pcworld.com/article/191856/exemployee_wreaks_havoc_on_100_cars_wirelessly.html


God of War 3 is here.  Checkout the goodness that is the launch trailer.

And a new Predator movie is on it's way. Presonally I love the Predator movies (ok, I admit the AVP films were lacking, but I'm past that). This new flick looks very promising in opinion. The director's have brought back the classic Predator and added what looks to be a Predator-like hound as well. Looks sweet. Check it out:

Until next week, happy surfing!

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