Here's a few songs I've recently done with GarageBand for iOS. While one of my musical friends keeps telling me I'm limited by what the software/hardware can do/allows, it's a fun pastime.
Showing posts with label Google. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Google. Show all posts
March 22, 2020
October 21, 2016
iPhone 7 Plus vs. Google’s Pixel Phone
With the announcement of Google's Pixel phone, I really debated going back to an Android device. And while this would be my third attempt, this time I think Google has the hardware and software dialed in to truly take on the iPhone.
Let me first start with a review of my iPhone 7 Plus (and the fact I can review “my” iPhone 7 Plus tells you which phone I went with). Of course, the decision to go with the iPhone was made easier because I’m stuck in the Apple Upgrade Program, and I can't just get out of that contract without waiting two years or paying a bunch of money at once. Also, Google announced the Pixel would be coming out exclusively on the Verizon network, which is not my carrier and cannot become my carrier due to coverage issues. I have; however, read some reviews that the unlocked version of the Pixel can be ported to any carrier, but I have not been able to confirm that through Google’s Pixel phone website. But here's my review of the iPhone 7 Plus:
I went with the jet black iPhone 7 Plus, which is beautiful. I love the look, I love the color, and I love the feel in my hand without a case. As a pianist, I love that it matches my grand piano and the black keys. I'm actually going caseless, because the Apple Upgrade Program comes with Apple Care Plus. Apple Care Plus now has a screen replacement cost of only $29, which is reasonable and cheaper than most cases you can buy. I've also noticed the longer battery life; although, I'm coming from a 6S, not a Plus (smaller phone, smaller battery). I love the new cameras, with its wide angle lens and a 2x optical zoom lens, although I think it should be more like 4x optical zoom. The phone is fast, responsive, and it is a great device.
But, it has its issues. I don't like the new home button. It's not a button anymore. It just a force touch area that works with the tactile feedback mechanism, vibrating to let you know you've pushed hard enough. The button doesn’t actually move, but the tactile feedback it gives is supposed to make it feel like it moved. In my opinion, it doesn't give enough feedback. Another issue I've found involves pulling on my facial hair when I put the phone up to my ear and on my cheek. To me, this makes it seem like the phone may struggle to be as water resistant as Apple claims. If my facial hair can get caught between the frame and glass, water will be able to seep in. And, another issue…I'm bored with iOS. The software is good, but it’s the same as always. Often, I actually think of this as a good thing because it means they've done a lot to make the phone functional and feature rich, the way we want. But I'm bored with it. One other flaw I see is on the back of the device. There is a camera bump. Why? Because of The Anorexic iPhone Problem. I wish Apple and other phone manufacturers would stop trying to make their devices thinner and thinner.
The thing Google did right with the Pixel phones is to offer the two different models, a 5 inch model and a 5.5 inch model, with the same performance specs. Both have the same processors. Both have the same cameras. Google offers two sizes, but equal performance. The only limitation is battery size, based on overall phone real estate. With Google’s Pixel, you don't have to get the bigger phone just to get all a better feature; unlike Apple, who put the better camera system only in the bigger phone. I went with the iPhone 7 Plus because I wanted the better camera, not because I wanted the bigger screen. In fact, I hate the size of the Plus. I don’t want the bigger phone. After using it for a week, I’m not even sure the camera zoom feature is worth it.
So, here's my wrap-up and recap: The iPhone 7 Plus is a great phone, but for me it’s too big. The 2x zoom doesn’t offset the size for me. The Pixel is Google’s strongest move toward a device that will battle the iPhone’s success. I wish I was able to get out of the Apple Upgrade Program or have the patience to wait it out with a device for two years, so I could move over to the new Google flagship.
I went with the jet black iPhone 7 Plus, which is beautiful. I love the look, I love the color, and I love the feel in my hand without a case. As a pianist, I love that it matches my grand piano and the black keys. I'm actually going caseless, because the Apple Upgrade Program comes with Apple Care Plus. Apple Care Plus now has a screen replacement cost of only $29, which is reasonable and cheaper than most cases you can buy. I've also noticed the longer battery life; although, I'm coming from a 6S, not a Plus (smaller phone, smaller battery). I love the new cameras, with its wide angle lens and a 2x optical zoom lens, although I think it should be more like 4x optical zoom. The phone is fast, responsive, and it is a great device.
But, it has its issues. I don't like the new home button. It's not a button anymore. It just a force touch area that works with the tactile feedback mechanism, vibrating to let you know you've pushed hard enough. The button doesn’t actually move, but the tactile feedback it gives is supposed to make it feel like it moved. In my opinion, it doesn't give enough feedback. Another issue I've found involves pulling on my facial hair when I put the phone up to my ear and on my cheek. To me, this makes it seem like the phone may struggle to be as water resistant as Apple claims. If my facial hair can get caught between the frame and glass, water will be able to seep in. And, another issue…I'm bored with iOS. The software is good, but it’s the same as always. Often, I actually think of this as a good thing because it means they've done a lot to make the phone functional and feature rich, the way we want. But I'm bored with it. One other flaw I see is on the back of the device. There is a camera bump. Why? Because of The Anorexic iPhone Problem. I wish Apple and other phone manufacturers would stop trying to make their devices thinner and thinner.
The thing Google did right with the Pixel phones is to offer the two different models, a 5 inch model and a 5.5 inch model, with the same performance specs. Both have the same processors. Both have the same cameras. Google offers two sizes, but equal performance. The only limitation is battery size, based on overall phone real estate. With Google’s Pixel, you don't have to get the bigger phone just to get all a better feature; unlike Apple, who put the better camera system only in the bigger phone. I went with the iPhone 7 Plus because I wanted the better camera, not because I wanted the bigger screen. In fact, I hate the size of the Plus. I don’t want the bigger phone. After using it for a week, I’m not even sure the camera zoom feature is worth it.
So, here's my wrap-up and recap: The iPhone 7 Plus is a great phone, but for me it’s too big. The 2x zoom doesn’t offset the size for me. The Pixel is Google’s strongest move toward a device that will battle the iPhone’s success. I wish I was able to get out of the Apple Upgrade Program or have the patience to wait it out with a device for two years, so I could move over to the new Google flagship.
Labels:
Android,
Apple,
Cell Phones,
Google,
iPhone,
Technology
September 29, 2016
20 Things Currently Annoying Me
20 things that are currently annoying me:
01. My iCloud being full (Apple should offer more free space, like 16GB)
02. Trying to decide Android or iPhone (AGAIN!)
03. Heartburn
04. Computer virus (Windows machine)
05. New computer decisions, Mac or Windows? (pricey or virusy)
06. People who don't like Law Enforcement
07. People who keep racism alive (media)
08. Low pay to love my job vs. good pay to not love my job
09. Law Enforcement Officers being poorly paid
10. Trump being the best option
11. Getting old
12. Still young, but not really feeling it (everything hurts all the time)
13. Mid-life crisis without the $$ for my sports car (or truck, if I'm more practical)
14. Time for blogging, but not the motivation
15. Time to write music, but not inspired to write good words
16. Missing workouts because I'm lazy
17. Loving Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO shows that make me lazy
18. Loving food, but not wanting to be fat
19. Being hot (temperature, not looks)
20. Not being able to think of a clever 20th item for the list, to end it right
01. My iCloud being full (Apple should offer more free space, like 16GB)
02. Trying to decide Android or iPhone (AGAIN!)
03. Heartburn
04. Computer virus (Windows machine)
05. New computer decisions, Mac or Windows? (pricey or virusy)
06. People who don't like Law Enforcement
07. People who keep racism alive (media)
08. Low pay to love my job vs. good pay to not love my job
09. Law Enforcement Officers being poorly paid
10. Trump being the best option
11. Getting old
12. Still young, but not really feeling it (everything hurts all the time)
13. Mid-life crisis without the $$ for my sports car (or truck, if I'm more practical)
14. Time for blogging, but not the motivation
15. Time to write music, but not inspired to write good words
16. Missing workouts because I'm lazy
17. Loving Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO shows that make me lazy
18. Loving food, but not wanting to be fat
19. Being hot (temperature, not looks)
20. Not being able to think of a clever 20th item for the list, to end it right
May 3, 2015
Phones Are Becoming Computers
The below "Rabbit Trail" is pulled out of a post from June 13, 2007, in which I talked about the iPhone. I discussed something I saw as a mistake made by Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, in which they seemed to be against making devices like cellphones work as full computers. Now, Microsoft is expanding on something they are calling Continuum for phones. But before we look at that, here's my thoughts from 2007 (almost 8 years ago):
Below is an article on Mircrosoft's Continuum for phones.
Additionally, here is the announcement from Microsoft's Build conference: Microsoft has announced the ability with Windows 10 to use your cellphone as a full computer, something I thought should be designed by either Apple or Microsoft back in 2007.
At this point, I feel the new Microsoft is based on my website. Enough of my ideas and designs have come true or are part of the company's future product features/announcements. MS should have called me and offered me a high paying job, designing ideas and seeing their implementation through. My ideas have all been considered great ones, well after the announcements they are finally going into design or affect in future software releases.
Related Posts:
Here is a Rabbit Trail:I think that Bill Gates and Steve Jobs both are missing the mark on where computers should go in the future. They were both unable to adequately answer the questions of where they saw computers in 5 years, at the D5 conference. The iPhone is a step in the right direction, but it’s just a fancy phone. The next revolutionary product should be the personal computer you take everywhere. It should be the size of the iPhone, have memory in the terabytes range, have the ability to sync with anything (monitors, keyboards, mouse, TV, networks, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, satellite, etc.), and simply be your only computer.
Imagine if you could take your cell phone to work, in your pocket, sit down at your desk with a full screen and keyboard, and connect to everything digital that is yours. That is what the next gen iPhone should and could be. That’s the one I want.
Below is an article on Mircrosoft's Continuum for phones.
Additionally, here is the announcement from Microsoft's Build conference: Microsoft has announced the ability with Windows 10 to use your cellphone as a full computer, something I thought should be designed by either Apple or Microsoft back in 2007.
At this point, I feel the new Microsoft is based on my website. Enough of my ideas and designs have come true or are part of the company's future product features/announcements. MS should have called me and offered me a high paying job, designing ideas and seeing their implementation through. My ideas have all been considered great ones, well after the announcements they are finally going into design or affect in future software releases.
Related Posts:
November 28, 2014
My Bright Idea #19 - Google Messaging, Calendar, and Other Features
My Bright Idea #19 - November 28, 1014
Google Hangout (Google's messaging and video chatting app) should become more like a super version of iMessage, by managing all SMS, MMS, and Hangout messages, and have the video and audio sharing features added. Besides a possible rename to something like "Google Messaging" or "GMessage" the app should include the management of regular text messaging to gain more customer usage (if you look at iMessage's implementation, most iPhone users have it set-up). The Google messaging app should be available on both iOS and Android devices, as well as, in Chrome and desktop software. Again, this will increase customer usage.
The purpose for better integration on multiple platform is to add additional features for users already using Google's other apps. One example I imagined is a smart recognition feature that automatically creates suggested calendar events from the content of text messages. A text like, "Do you want to go see a movie tomorrow?" could create a possible calendar event for the user to review (similar to iMessage's manual ability to create calendar events from keywords like "today" or "tomorrow"). The event could be added to a "Suggested Events" section of the calendar app or be accessible right in the messaging app to confirm as a calendar event. Additionally, subsequent text that may include other information about the movie, such as which movie, the time and location, could be added to the "suggested calendar event". Friend(s) involved in the text (such as group texts or mentioned within) could automatically be added as suggested invitees. Once the event is confirmed, all invitees who choose to accept then have it added to their own calenders.
The messages could also (with permission granted by the user) be reviewed by Google's server to add related content suggestions like where a particular movie is playing or where tickets can be purchased.
Additionally, the Google Calendar App could be updated with other social features, such as, the option to share certain types of events with certain groups (say from your Google+ Circles). With a feature added to select particular calendar 'event types' in the creation of the event, a particular event could be shared with a select group(s). A "Social Events" calendar event, for example, could be shared with your "Friends Circle" so they know about upcoming movie nights or dinner parties. A "Work" calendar event could be shared with your "Coworkers Circle" so your daily schedule could be used for scheduling other work events or meetings.
Additional management of your Circles should also be added to the contacts in your Gmail, for easier access and modification. Or a Google Contacts/Address Book App and/or website should be created for managing all a user's contacts, groups, circles, etc. All features should have management capabilities from either the messaging app or the calendar app, with integration with all other Google Apps.
February 2, 2013
My YouTube History...Because I Don't Have Time To Blog
I've wanted to post so many things to my blog, but I don't ever have time anymore. And, because I make absolutely no money sitting at a computer writing my opinion, the blogging takes a backseat to the rest of my life. But, in the interest of sharing some finds with my few followers, here are some videos from my YouTube History.
Depeche Mode has a new album coming the end of March. Here is their first released video.
Here is Joe Getty from the "Armstrong and Getty Show" (on AM Talk 650) confirming that he can easily make a 37 yard field goal, unlike David Akers of the 49ers, who missed one in the NFC championship game. Sure, Akers kicked a 63-yarder and tied the NFL record or something, but he missed the easy one.
Don't run from the police in Slavic countries.
The Trombone was never cooler, except when Commander Riker played his on Star Trek.
My next Ford? I would love to drive an F150 again, and this concept is sweet.
What cold is in Los Angeles looks silly to the rest of the USA.
Now this is a video. It's Fresh from Bel-Air.
Do not try this. Double BMW Donuts.
Cool, crazy things people do.
Audi is about to make Google Maps, Earth, and Search part of its cars. This video was made by my favorite car company using Google Maps/Street View.
The science of Guiness beer can really be hyped, to the point of making it seem like it's one of the wonders of the world. Of course, it makes it look like it tastes amazing.
Science is fun. Should you run or walk in the rain?
Depeche Mode has a new album coming the end of March. Here is their first released video.
Here is Joe Getty from the "Armstrong and Getty Show" (on AM Talk 650) confirming that he can easily make a 37 yard field goal, unlike David Akers of the 49ers, who missed one in the NFC championship game. Sure, Akers kicked a 63-yarder and tied the NFL record or something, but he missed the easy one.
Don't run from the police in Slavic countries.
The Trombone was never cooler, except when Commander Riker played his on Star Trek.
My next Ford? I would love to drive an F150 again, and this concept is sweet.
What cold is in Los Angeles looks silly to the rest of the USA.
Now this is a video. It's Fresh from Bel-Air.
Do not try this. Double BMW Donuts.
Cool, crazy things people do.
Audi is about to make Google Maps, Earth, and Search part of its cars. This video was made by my favorite car company using Google Maps/Street View.
The science of Guiness beer can really be hyped, to the point of making it seem like it's one of the wonders of the world. Of course, it makes it look like it tastes amazing.
Science is fun. Should you run or walk in the rain?
Labels:
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November 15, 2012
July 15, 2012
A Google A Day...Why I'm Thinking of Switching From Apple

That, combined with the Galaxy Nexus, which would be the best Android phone available because it too runs a pure version of Android, would allow me to seamlessly switch from phone to tablet without losing information or access to my files.
The only problem I have in making the switch is the commitment I've already made to Apple. App purchases are the biggest, and as I write this I'm realizing I don't really use many apps that cost me money, but I know they work the way i want them to work. Really, I use the free apps like Twitter and Instagram to update my least favorite of apps, Facebook, so all my life is available to the waiting 50 people max that follow me. I just know all my wit can not be wasted or missed. Beyond apps, Apple's market share makes it hard to leave the devices most people are using. From my parents to most of my coworkers, the iPhone is still the majority device. Most of the Android people are diehards and praise their phones, but sometimes I can't tell if that's denial talking or true praise for their phones. iPhone is everywhere and works well with other iPhones. Android, although popular as well, does not have the market share the iPhone has. But, maybe that's a good thing too. Just as Apple once was the underdog, pushed to make better products, so too are Google's devices and they've continued to get better and better. In fact, I would say from the first version to current, Android has increased in abilities and features much passed that of Apple's iOS software.
Anyway, I thought I'd post something about it. Maybe Google will want me as a tester....ha...a guy can dream. I actually watch a documentary last night on Google called "Inside the Mind of Google". It made me want to work for them. Produced by CNBC, and available to watch on Netflix or in a browser here, it was a balanced view of the company's business, weighing pros and cons on the type of business Google conducts. With access to so much private information about so many people, Google is easily demonized. But, I felt like from the top down, people at Google want to follow their own policies (not required by law) to protect its users privacy. If anything, I believe I gained a deeper respect for Google and their commitment to operate within its policies and attempt to be fair, private, and reliable to its users. If you want more on my opinion of Google, check out my old post "If I Were CEO...Google" from 2010.
November 22, 2011
My Bright Idea #10 - Google's MMORPG Using Google Earth
My Bright Idea #10 - September 6, 2011
Google should develop an MMORPG using Google Earth and the 3D buildings that people are creating. People can join the "real world", but play and do things they may not normally do or be able to be part of.
This goes with my MMORPG "Real World" Game idea, where people play out themselves in the real world, but are able to choose to be "good" or "bad" and perform tasks to that end. You either choose to do things like stopping crimes seen in the game, or you choose to do them. People would live out their desired role, leading toward enforcement of rule and law or the destruction of it. Each "good" or "bad" thing done would earn the player points toward their goal. Depending on where and how the crimes or prevention is done, the player would earn roles in the world they create. There would also be an underlying points system for those things done without detection. This would allow for things like secret alter-egos in the world.
For example, if someone decided to be "good" and prevented crime, they may choose to become a COP, working a beat, etc. But if they prevent crimes that are behind the scenes, in dark allies, in back rooms, etc., they can earn roles such as FBI agent, with access to more information about other players or game characters, that might not otherwise be known. FBI agents would have access to information saved in the server, but not part of a characters "known" status in the world. If someone decides to be "good" but hides their identity with masks or costumes, they can eventually gain a super power.
On the bad side, the range of positions starts at street thug and goes to crime boss. And, for those that are able to reach crime boss and complete dangerous tasks without detection, they can "accidentally" be turned into a super villain with a super power, gained by a tragic accident within the game.
June 20, 2011
Music beta by Google
So Google finally sent me an invite to its music service. I started the upload, at 10:40pm tonight. I have about 4000 songs (or so says Google's Music Manager software), so we'll see how long this upload takes. For now, I like the web interface. I'm disappointed there is not an iOS app for it, but I'm sure Apple will block that for obvious reasons. Amazon, for that matter, needs an iOS app for their music service too. I mean, iPhone is the #1 phone, right? You can't really count all the fragmentation that IS Android, can you? Is Android actually #1? I don't know. I don't do research. I let the blogs do that for me. I just repeat crap they say.
So, there's a bunch of nothing to say, I'll let you all know what I think about Music beta by Google. Thought #1: get a better name than Music beta by Google, or Music by Google, which I assume is what it will be called after coming out of beta testing. How about "Goosic"? It's Google and Music smashed together? Huh? Okay, that's more lame.
Goosic. It's Music. Anywhere. by Google by Jimmy the Gun
So, there's a bunch of nothing to say, I'll let you all know what I think about Music beta by Google. Thought #1: get a better name than Music beta by Google, or Music by Google, which I assume is what it will be called after coming out of beta testing. How about "Goosic"? It's Google and Music smashed together? Huh? Okay, that's more lame.
Goosic. It's Music. Anywhere. by Google by Jimmy the Gun
MY Google +1 Button...Click It
I've added a Google +1 button to my website. I'm not really sure what it does, even after reading the description on the website for it, but +1 my site any way.
|I added this picture so you could find it.
UPDATE: If the +1 is blue, it means you've already +1'd it. If it's gray you still need to do it. SO DO IT!
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|I added this picture so you could find it.
UPDATE: If the +1 is blue, it means you've already +1'd it. If it's gray you still need to do it. SO DO IT!
Tweet
May 20, 2011
Speech to Text for iOS 5
I hope Apple introduces something like this soon. My short experience with Android showed me the usefulness of speech-to-text while driving. I was able to send texts without having to type. If Apple can bring this to the iPhone, it would make the product that much better. The part I'm not sure is there for Apple is the speech recognition algorithms. I believe Google has superior algorithms because of things like Google Voice and the old Goog-411 service, which they used to increase their systems accuracy. Again, this is another reason Google and Apple should have stayed friends.
Oh yes, I'm up at 4:15am. I've actually been up since 2:00am, when one of my kids woke up crying. He went right back to sleep with a little hug from me, but here I sit still unable to go back to sleep.
Tweet
Oh yes, I'm up at 4:15am. I've actually been up since 2:00am, when one of my kids woke up crying. He went right back to sleep with a little hug from me, but here I sit still unable to go back to sleep.
Tweet
January 29, 2011
So Much To Say, No Time To Say It - Part 4
First, the iPhone still needs Flash. There are so many videos that I don't get to see because they are Flash.
Sony announced NGP (Next Generation Portable)
Motorola Officially Introduces the Atrix...might be my next phone.
Google introduces Cloud Print (I just set it up and it is so easy and awesome).
Dodge steals the LED style head-lights from Audi.
First Audi's design...COOL.
Second, Chrysler's design...actually pretty nice too, but COME ON. Be original.
Honda makes the minivan uglier...if that's even possible. I think the line at the bottom of the windows looks bad with that weird jog at the back window. It takes away from the flow of the car.
Here is a video of NBC's Bryant Gumbel and Katie Couric try to explain the Internet and the "at" symbol in 1994.
There is more I've forgotten, but I'll hopefully remember and post later (I just laughed to myself because I've lost the time to blog in my life, thanks to kids, and life, and work).
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Labels:
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Cell Phones,
Google,
Honda,
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Land Rover,
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January 2, 2011
Android Is The Better Platform Choice
You all know I like Google...a lot. I've done a blog on "If I Were CEO...Google", I've talked about the HTC Droid Incredible and Aria, and I'm a huge Gmail and other Google web-based services user, including Blogger (host of www.jimmythegun.com). When it comes to cell phone platforms, Google's Android software is starting to grow into a mature, and very successful system. I want to highlight some of Android's functions, and talk about why I feel it is the better cellphone platform choice.
I've really found that Google has done some incredible things with the Android platform, from seamless interaction with all the Google web-based service like Gmail, Picasa, Google Voice, Docs, Maps, and Navigation to useful tools and customizations. Something I've talked a little about before but have recently been able to test out for myself is Voice Actions. This super useful, very accurate, and so easy to use feature, available on the last couple versions of Android allows you to do thing with voice commands, anything from standard Google searches to sending texts, starting music, making call, and more. I posted this video before, but take another look:
Another sweet feature of the phone is the customizable screens and app icon placement. Like the latest iPhone, you can have wallpapers behind the icons. The difference with the Android phone is that wallpaper's abilities. The Android phone allows for interactive wallpaper. Some are animated or video clips that move. Some react to a tap. And some take a given picture and move the angle of view slightly as you swipe through to different pages on the phone. Here are a couple I found on YouTube:
This next video shows off a few with a guy from PocketNow.com explaining. This is on an older version of Android, but it's still really fun and cool. He does mention the battery life issue with these interactive wallpapers, but if you're like me and you have to charge your phone every night anyway, because the newer software on the old iPhone 3G drains the battery in less than a day, it won't be a bother.
If you watched the last of the above videos, you can see how icon placement is very customizable. You can place app icons anywhere you want on any of the pages on the phone. This allows for customization beyond what the iPhone offers. There are quick dial icons that work similar to favorites. There are search bars, clocks, social networking, and other widgets that can be placed right on any of the pages. Many of the same apps found on the iPhone are also available in the Android Market. Plus, there are many free apps that allow for functions and content that cost money on the iPhone.
Another great feature of the Android phones is delivery of updates. Google designed "over the air" delivery of software updates, rather than the Apple method, which requires being hard wired to iTunes.
The problems most people have with the Android software is how the carriers and phone manufactures deliver the software. Some carriers limit the places you can download apps from. Some limit the abilities of the phone due to "network capacity". Manufacturers all deliver the software version they choose, based on how soon they can adapt their own software overlays to the Android version they choose. This causes what people call "fragmentation" to the Android phones. Some, like Sony, deliver brand new phones to market with 2 or 3 versions old software. Some, like HTC and Samsung don't deliver the latest version of Android when people want because they need time to test and re-write some of their own proprietary software additions. And sometimes the updates are held up by the carriers (Aria update is ready but AT&T is not allowing delivery).
I'm now thinking about how I can get myself a Nexus S (pictured above) and port it over to AT&T. The problem I have is the inability to switch carriers. Someone else on my AT&T bill threw an iPhone 3G because of all its problems. When this person replaced the broke 3G with an iPhone 4, it locked that person into AT&T for another 2 years; meaning the rest of us are stuck too. And, while I don't blame this person for the destruction of an iPhone 3G, it would be nice if AT&T had a nice Android phone. The Nexus S would be $199.99 on T-Mobile, but it would cost me $529.99 to move to AT&T. Best Buy is currently the sole retailer able to sell this pure Google phone, but T-Mobile customers are the only ones getting a subsidized price. I guess at this point I'm hoping a new Android phone is delivered by HTC or Google to the AT&T network. If there is not a pure Google phone available, I've found that HTC's sence software is an okay addition to the Android platform. But, until Apple announces the next iPhone, or one of these phones comes to AT&T, I guess I'll be stuck with my iPhone 3G. Wish me luck with sanity in 2011, as I deal with a phone made junk by the manufacturer of the device.
Tweet
I've really found that Google has done some incredible things with the Android platform, from seamless interaction with all the Google web-based service like Gmail, Picasa, Google Voice, Docs, Maps, and Navigation to useful tools and customizations. Something I've talked a little about before but have recently been able to test out for myself is Voice Actions. This super useful, very accurate, and so easy to use feature, available on the last couple versions of Android allows you to do thing with voice commands, anything from standard Google searches to sending texts, starting music, making call, and more. I posted this video before, but take another look:
Another sweet feature of the phone is the customizable screens and app icon placement. Like the latest iPhone, you can have wallpapers behind the icons. The difference with the Android phone is that wallpaper's abilities. The Android phone allows for interactive wallpaper. Some are animated or video clips that move. Some react to a tap. And some take a given picture and move the angle of view slightly as you swipe through to different pages on the phone. Here are a couple I found on YouTube:
This next video shows off a few with a guy from PocketNow.com explaining. This is on an older version of Android, but it's still really fun and cool. He does mention the battery life issue with these interactive wallpapers, but if you're like me and you have to charge your phone every night anyway, because the newer software on the old iPhone 3G drains the battery in less than a day, it won't be a bother.
If you watched the last of the above videos, you can see how icon placement is very customizable. You can place app icons anywhere you want on any of the pages on the phone. This allows for customization beyond what the iPhone offers. There are quick dial icons that work similar to favorites. There are search bars, clocks, social networking, and other widgets that can be placed right on any of the pages. Many of the same apps found on the iPhone are also available in the Android Market. Plus, there are many free apps that allow for functions and content that cost money on the iPhone.
Another great feature of the Android phones is delivery of updates. Google designed "over the air" delivery of software updates, rather than the Apple method, which requires being hard wired to iTunes.
The problems most people have with the Android software is how the carriers and phone manufactures deliver the software. Some carriers limit the places you can download apps from. Some limit the abilities of the phone due to "network capacity". Manufacturers all deliver the software version they choose, based on how soon they can adapt their own software overlays to the Android version they choose. This causes what people call "fragmentation" to the Android phones. Some, like Sony, deliver brand new phones to market with 2 or 3 versions old software. Some, like HTC and Samsung don't deliver the latest version of Android when people want because they need time to test and re-write some of their own proprietary software additions. And sometimes the updates are held up by the carriers (Aria update is ready but AT&T is not allowing delivery).
I'm now thinking about how I can get myself a Nexus S (pictured above) and port it over to AT&T. The problem I have is the inability to switch carriers. Someone else on my AT&T bill threw an iPhone 3G because of all its problems. When this person replaced the broke 3G with an iPhone 4, it locked that person into AT&T for another 2 years; meaning the rest of us are stuck too. And, while I don't blame this person for the destruction of an iPhone 3G, it would be nice if AT&T had a nice Android phone. The Nexus S would be $199.99 on T-Mobile, but it would cost me $529.99 to move to AT&T. Best Buy is currently the sole retailer able to sell this pure Google phone, but T-Mobile customers are the only ones getting a subsidized price. I guess at this point I'm hoping a new Android phone is delivered by HTC or Google to the AT&T network. If there is not a pure Google phone available, I've found that HTC's sence software is an okay addition to the Android platform. But, until Apple announces the next iPhone, or one of these phones comes to AT&T, I guess I'll be stuck with my iPhone 3G. Wish me luck with sanity in 2011, as I deal with a phone made junk by the manufacturer of the device.
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Cell Phones,
Google,
iPhone,
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Video
December 30, 2010
Top Gear USA On The History Channel...and A Rant About Internet Video Availability
First, let me tell the History Channel people that they need to free up some of the video on their site. I wanted to embed a video of an awesome, hilarious, and super entertaining scene from an episode, but they didn't allow the video to be embedded. Why not have some of the scenes or episodes available for embedding? I'd be free advertisement. Check out a small portion of the episode here.
Anyway, the episode (#3) I just watched using my DVR so I could skip commercials, earning The History Channel $0.00, had a bootlegger challenge with the hosts. The 3 hosts each had to buy a car for $1,000 (I think) and run moonshine through a set of challenges that were designed to mimic the challenges the original moonshiners faced. This episode was really funny and amazing to watch.
I actually want to support the show. I want the morons at the History Channel to realize they hurt themselves by not having web content of their shows. Embedding and allowing a site like Hulu to stream episodes is a great way to continue to make money off of the show. AND, web content makes me watch at least one commercial every break. You can also set up embedded codes that first play a commercial before playing the clip. This seems like a no brainer to me.
This is actually about to start a rant on how all the major networks keep pulling away from the Internet, streaming, embedding codes, and even the Google TV idea. Why? This doesn't seem like its a good business idea. A site like Hulu forces the viewers to watch commercials. Currently, I use a DVR to watch TV. I never watch live TV because I refuse to watch commercials. The Internet figured out a way to make me watch them again. But, it's done in a bearable way. The streaming sites make you watch one commercial at the beginning, which matches the other ads on the site. Then for longer shows or videos, they add just one commercial per break. It's short and sweet, and I do watch them. Currently, the sites Funny or Die and Fail Blog are playing commercials for the Duramax Diesel engine and the Allison transmission that are in the Chevy Silverado. SEE History Channel? That's from embedded videos and streaming content. See that major networks? That sponsor got their money's worth. If the Internet was utilized, advertisers would see the rewards from views. This would drive the cost of Internet advertising up and the networks could charge more for this type of ad, MAKING THEM MORE MONEY. Instead, every network thinks they can do it better than the next. No one is seeing the benefit of using a site like Hulu to be the go to Internet place for video. And don't get me started on Netflix.
Well, there's my spontaneous rant. I really just wanted to tell my readers to watch Top Gear USA. It's actually pretty good, even if the hosts are all really cheesy. Night!
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Anyway, the episode (#3) I just watched using my DVR so I could skip commercials, earning The History Channel $0.00, had a bootlegger challenge with the hosts. The 3 hosts each had to buy a car for $1,000 (I think) and run moonshine through a set of challenges that were designed to mimic the challenges the original moonshiners faced. This episode was really funny and amazing to watch.
I actually want to support the show. I want the morons at the History Channel to realize they hurt themselves by not having web content of their shows. Embedding and allowing a site like Hulu to stream episodes is a great way to continue to make money off of the show. AND, web content makes me watch at least one commercial every break. You can also set up embedded codes that first play a commercial before playing the clip. This seems like a no brainer to me.
This is actually about to start a rant on how all the major networks keep pulling away from the Internet, streaming, embedding codes, and even the Google TV idea. Why? This doesn't seem like its a good business idea. A site like Hulu forces the viewers to watch commercials. Currently, I use a DVR to watch TV. I never watch live TV because I refuse to watch commercials. The Internet figured out a way to make me watch them again. But, it's done in a bearable way. The streaming sites make you watch one commercial at the beginning, which matches the other ads on the site. Then for longer shows or videos, they add just one commercial per break. It's short and sweet, and I do watch them. Currently, the sites Funny or Die and Fail Blog are playing commercials for the Duramax Diesel engine and the Allison transmission that are in the Chevy Silverado. SEE History Channel? That's from embedded videos and streaming content. See that major networks? That sponsor got their money's worth. If the Internet was utilized, advertisers would see the rewards from views. This would drive the cost of Internet advertising up and the networks could charge more for this type of ad, MAKING THEM MORE MONEY. Instead, every network thinks they can do it better than the next. No one is seeing the benefit of using a site like Hulu to be the go to Internet place for video. And don't get me started on Netflix.
Well, there's my spontaneous rant. I really just wanted to tell my readers to watch Top Gear USA. It's actually pretty good, even if the hosts are all really cheesy. Night!
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November 6, 2010
Google's Law Enforcement Tool Opportunity
Have you heard about Google's self-driving car? If you read my blog on a regular basis, you would have seen the article I posted here. But, as a refresher, Google has a Toyota Prius that uses cameras, lasers, and radio frequencies to control the vehicle, allowing computers to do the driving.
Now, my genius brain has come up with something Google can do to make this system useful right now and get some major beta testing free of charge. Google could offer law enforcement agencies across the nation the use of this system in patrol cars. First, this would allow officers to use their MDC or Mobile Data (or Digital) Computer, without the worry of crashing into someone or something. It would make it easier for an officer to read the details of an incoming call, the records checks on persons or vehicles of interest, and even allow the officers to write notes or reports while still moving through their designated beats. Second, Google could also offer their excellent maps services to help officers locate the exact location of a call, and the fastest routes to them. And finally, law enforcement officers are already the cream of the crop in our society. They write reports all day long, they are very observant, and they love to be "in the know" about everything. They would prove to be an excellent resource for feedback on the system, they would test it to its limits, and would be honest about its performance.
I do realize there are some old guys in every department that are any technology. I also know there are guys that are too busy, too active, or too tough for the system. I get that. But, every department has the middle of the road officers too. These guys do their job, go to calls and do some proactive police work. They are decent report writers. And these are the guys that are looking for tools to help them in their performance. These are the guys that should get the test cars. It would only take 1% of the police force for Google to get a great sampling of its software's performance.
Anyway, that's my idea. Let's do this Google. I'll get you into at least one department where I have connections. Call me. I mean, I do have a Google Voice line.
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Now, my genius brain has come up with something Google can do to make this system useful right now and get some major beta testing free of charge. Google could offer law enforcement agencies across the nation the use of this system in patrol cars. First, this would allow officers to use their MDC or Mobile Data (or Digital) Computer, without the worry of crashing into someone or something. It would make it easier for an officer to read the details of an incoming call, the records checks on persons or vehicles of interest, and even allow the officers to write notes or reports while still moving through their designated beats. Second, Google could also offer their excellent maps services to help officers locate the exact location of a call, and the fastest routes to them. And finally, law enforcement officers are already the cream of the crop in our society. They write reports all day long, they are very observant, and they love to be "in the know" about everything. They would prove to be an excellent resource for feedback on the system, they would test it to its limits, and would be honest about its performance.
I do realize there are some old guys in every department that are any technology. I also know there are guys that are too busy, too active, or too tough for the system. I get that. But, every department has the middle of the road officers too. These guys do their job, go to calls and do some proactive police work. They are decent report writers. And these are the guys that are looking for tools to help them in their performance. These are the guys that should get the test cars. It would only take 1% of the police force for Google to get a great sampling of its software's performance.
Anyway, that's my idea. Let's do this Google. I'll get you into at least one department where I have connections. Call me. I mean, I do have a Google Voice line.
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October 16, 2010
Google's Self Driving Car
If you haven't heard about this, Google is spending some of it's advertising earnings on technology that is designed to drive your car for you. ABC News picked up the story and here it is:

I know computers can make calculations faster than we can, and I know a computer can't be easily distracted, but I'm a driver. I love to drive. I almost live to drive. I love driving and being in control of my own vehicle. Sure, sometimes it would be nice during the stop-n-go traffic commutes to have a car that did the driving for us, but I don't want to completely give up my ability to maneuver my own car. Still, this is really cool. The safety behind faster reaction times and the ability of the Google car to travel closer to other cars because of it's better reaction times makes it a pretty good idea, and a technology I can get behind.
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I know computers can make calculations faster than we can, and I know a computer can't be easily distracted, but I'm a driver. I love to drive. I almost live to drive. I love driving and being in control of my own vehicle. Sure, sometimes it would be nice during the stop-n-go traffic commutes to have a car that did the driving for us, but I don't want to completely give up my ability to maneuver my own car. Still, this is really cool. The safety behind faster reaction times and the ability of the Google car to travel closer to other cars because of it's better reaction times makes it a pretty good idea, and a technology I can get behind.
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September 7, 2010
September 6, 2010
The Coolest HTML5 Interactive Music Video
This is truly amazing. This website creates a music video using Google Maps, Google Street View, and Google Earth to embed images from an address you enter. This requires Google Chrome, HTML5, and several browser windows do open, but this is really cool. Here is mine based on my high school.
Try it out here.
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Try it out here.
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August 24, 2010
More Reasons To Jailbreak the iPhone..Or Get An Android Phone
Well I just wrote a big long thing, clicked post, and BAM! Everything I wrote was lost. This is stupid.
Here's my new theme.
Amazing. Apple still sucks. Jobs is full of crap. Why can't Apple offer themes? Why can't they update their text previewer to include what I discovered today...volume up + tap to the screen = quick compose text message, anywhere.
I'm pretty sure you all would have been annoyed that I'm still complaining about the iPhone anyway. Android? Can someone just bring a good one to AT&T? AT&T is actually a lot of the iPhone's problem. Service issues are them. Tethering locked is them. Good night. This better post.
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Here's my new theme.
Amazing. Apple still sucks. Jobs is full of crap. Why can't Apple offer themes? Why can't they update their text previewer to include what I discovered today...volume up + tap to the screen = quick compose text message, anywhere.
I'm pretty sure you all would have been annoyed that I'm still complaining about the iPhone anyway. Android? Can someone just bring a good one to AT&T? AT&T is actually a lot of the iPhone's problem. Service issues are them. Tethering locked is them. Good night. This better post.
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