Smart Recycling Ideas for Your Android Devices

With several generations of gadgets have gone by over the the past few years, there's no doubt some of you have an old gadget that no longer gets attention and is just picking up dust on your drawer. But despite of this, you're still hanging on to it. Sure, it may have a sentimental value attached to it but the problem is, you're not quite sure on what to use it for.

So, here are some bright recycling ideas that you can do with your old Android device. Check out the list below and you may get an idea or two that you will truly find useful and enjoyable at the same time.

Kitchen Assistant

With a combination of Google Tasks and a cheap stand, a spare or old Android phone or tablet can become your ideal kitchen assistant. How? You can create a shopping list on Google Tasks, synchronize it with your other devices, and then take it with you shopping. Then in the kitchen, get rid of the hassle of having your cookbook stand on a balance or ruining the pages with ingredients. You can now cook food to perfection by using your device's built-in timer, so nothing gets burnt or overcooked.

You can check out apps like Food Network in the Kitchen and BigOven for starters. And since it's touchscreen, it's easy to keep clean, too.

Remote Webcam

Turn your Android device into a handy IP-based webcam with the help of a neat free app called IP Webcam from Google play. The app lets you connect the device from another Android device or any network computer using a browser or via Skype. It supports audio and a host of smart features such as streaming to VLC.

So if you're looking for a cheap Wi-Fi IP camera and happened to have an old Android phone or tablet, this will do the trick.

Video Camera

Though there's a slim chance that you would consider using an old Android device as a spare camera, but that doesn't mean that it can't be used as a decent video camera. The moving image, being lower resolution, is a lot more forgiving when it comes to poor quality sensors and lenses, while even aging devices can provide 720p HD encoding.

So, provided that you load it with a suitable SD card, you now have a device that can capture hours of video.

Wireless keyboard or mouse

If in case your keyboard or mouse suddenly stops working, you can use your old Android device as an input device with the help of RemoteDroid. Neither input will be as accommodating as its desktop counterpart, but it will do until you can order or purchase a new replacement for your defective computer accessory.

Digital photo frame

Do you know that your old Android device has better screen quality than most digital photo frames that you can see in the market today? Another benefit of using your old Android tablet as a digital photo frame is that you can connect it to your Cloud account so that it will have access to more photos. You can check out and download the Dayframe app to transform your device into a cool digital photo frame.

E-reader

You can always use your current device as an e-reader, however, it can take too much of its battery especially if you're an avid reader. Using your old Android device as a permanent e-reader will wipe off your battery worries on your current device. Depending on your reader app preference and whether you sidelook books, you may not even need a Wi-Fi connection for your device.

For e-reader apps, you may consider checking out apps like Google Play Books, Amazon Kindle app, and Aldiko.

Desk Clock and Weather Station

We all know that an Android device can offer more than just an ordinary desk clock. You can personalize its background and make it animated, show multiple clocks, and inbox status. If you want to transform your old Android device into an awesome desk clock and weather station, check out Dock Clock Plus to make it happen.

Apple Music vs. Spotify: A Quick Face Off

Spotify is no doubt the king of streaming music these days. This claim is supported by a reported user base of 20 million subscribers -- plus an additional 55 million listeners of its free, ad-based service. Now, that Apple Music has just recently entered the scene, the only question that comes to mind is that will the reigning champion in streaming music will still be able to hold its title.

When it was first unveiled by Apple during the 2015 WWDC, Apple Music seems to appear as the biggest threat for Spotify in the current streaming marketplace. Why? Because Apple Music has all the characteristics of a powerhouse music streaming client -- with a 24-hour, live radio broadcast, personally curated playlists, and access to the entire iTunes music catalog. So, to give us a closer look as to what the two music streaming giants can and cannot do, below is a quick run-through of their similarities and differences.

Founded	Jan. 2014 as Beats Music;acquired by Apple in May 2014 for $3B; relaunched June 2015.	October 2008, Stolkholm
Cost	Free radio (Beats 1 and other stations) or $9.99 per month	Free ad-supported streaming and radio or $9.99 per month ($4.99 for students)
Family plan	$14.99 per month for six family members (shared via iCloud Family Sharing)	$4.98 (50 percent off) for each additional family member account
Trial with full functionality	3 months free	3 months for $0.99
Requires new mobile app	Nope—it's in the Music app when you update to iOS 8.4	Yes
How many countries	100 at launch	58 + many territories
iTunes integration	Full integration of iTunes songs and playlists, including songs on iTunes Match ($24.99 per year) and songs in iCloud	Use third-party tools to convert iTunes playlists to Spotify; desktop Spotify can pull in local files
Number of users	TBD; Beats Music only had 111,000	75 million+ users, 20 million+ subscribers
Number of music tracks	30 million+	30 million+
Internet radio playlist curation	Humans (plus live Beats 1 Internet radio)	Algorithms
Number of skips for free	TBD, but limited	Five per hour
Sound Quality (free)	256Kbps	96Kbps
Sound Quality (Premium)	256Kbps	160Kbps or 320Kbps
Platforms	Mac, iOS, Windows at launch: Apple TV and Android to come	Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Phone, Roku, TiVo, Samsung Smart TVs, Linux, PlayStation, the Web, and more
Podcasts	No (Apple has a separate app for that)	Yes
Videos	Music videos, clips uploaded by artists	Yes

5 Tools Everyone in the Computer Industry Should Be Using

Just to clarify a point, “computer industry” is actually a generic term since there are many sub-categories under this. Some may be working in the computer web design or web development industry. Some may be in the internet marketing industry, and this in itself can have different sub-categories (SEO, social media, e-mail, etc.). Others may be in the hardware or software category usually called technical support.

Because of this, we selected the most common tools that virtually anyone working in the computer industry, no matter what category, can more or less use either directly for their work or in relation to it. We chose not to include the really common and default tools that virtually everyone may already have like browsers, browser-based online tools, and anti-virus tools.

Hootsuite/Tweetdeck

Managing multiple Twitter accounts is next to impossible even for the most hardworking social media marketer. Third party solutions like Hootsuite/Tweetdeck can solve this, especially when companies have two or more Twitter accounts (usually opened by different departments) and in each account are numerous clients and followers, all potential customers. These tools allow marketers to organize all their Twitter accounts in a single interface and monitor all those accounts using just a single screen.

waveapps.com

This tool provides free invoicing as well as invoicing on the go for mobile apps. It also offers an accounting software program that is cloud based and allows you to manage whatever is incoming or outgoing.

iFixIt.com Repair Kits, Tools, and Videos

Actually a staple of the hardware repair business for many years now, they offer any type of repair content, repair videos, and manuals that you can all download whether using a PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. They even have data for the problematic or unfamiliar repairs. It can even store How-To documents you downloaded and marked as favorites. It even comes with an iPad app that also works well on Apple Mac computers.

Clonezilla

This tool can be used straightforward to clone a computer’s hard drive before doing any type of work that is a standard operation for PC repairs. It can save anyone untold hours in the event of a computer catastrophe.

A pair of awesome noise cancelling headphones

You might be thinking, “Headphones are tools?” But if you’re someone who wants to really focus, is a true millennial, or was born in the 1980’s, then you might even be thanking the makers of noise cancelling headphones. Bose is usually the best choice for many, though the Dr. Beat brand is making a popular headway. Many people are actually used to listening to music while working 8 hours a day, and it helps them really focus. It helps concentrate on work since some people do get bothered by co-workers talking over the phone or playing with their pen. Some even use headphones to block off the sound of clicking keyboards.

Why Cloud Can Be the Best Choice for Your Business's Backup Plan

What is Cloud Computing?

Instead of local computers in an office or business doing all the work, with each computer running separate licensed applications and software, this network of computers can be handled by the cloud instead. Hardware and software demands for the user decreases all the computers can be run from the cloud computing system’s interface software, which can be as simple as a web browser, and the cloud’s network takes care of the rest.

The best example for cloud computing is the use of an e-mail account with a web-based e-mail service like Yahoo! Mail or G-mail. Instead of running an e-mail program on your computer, you log in to a web e-mail account remotely. The software and storage for your account doesn’t exist on your computer because you access it on the service's computer cloud.

And speaking of storage, another useful aspect of cloud computing is as a storage backup for all your important data and files.

Cloud Storage Services

Storing your data backups at an off-site location is the best way to ensure that a copy of your most critical business data will remain sheltered from any cataclysmic event that may befall your business. And what better way to achieve geographical separation than by storing your data at various centers located across the globe?

Choosing a goodcloud storage provider that has a good track record for reliability will help ensure that your data is available when you need it. Some cloud services use innovative storage techniques to yield lower storage and operational costs. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with such efforts, you should always scramble data with robust encryption prior to entrusting it to an external organization for safekeeping.

Disaster planning storage backup: it might never happen, but you’ll never know.

It’s the same concept with having a first aid kit -- It’s better to have it there but not need it, rather than needing it, but it’s not there.

Assess the threats

Consider what could seriously damage your computers externally, for instance, a fire on your premises, natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes, or even a hacker attack.

Determine the likelihood of each threat

Some are definitely more probable than others. You can seek expert advice for each disaster to assess risk levels.

Assess what maximum potential damage may occur

For instance, would the threat take your main customer database offline? Or would the impact be relatively minor? Your disaster planning should prioritize threats with the highest likelihood of happening and the potential to cause most damage.

Have other backup systems in place aside from cloud storage

You might also consider adding other backup systems such as DVD’s or external hard disks. Also consider other minor disaster preparedness like having uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to keep your server running and avoid damage to desktops.

Once you’ve put a business disaster recovery plan together, test it. See how your communications work in practice, and how long it takes you to get back to working again.

Make Your Android Phone a Full-Fledged Desktop with Andromium OS

For the average people, spending thousands of dollars on a high-end smartphone and computer is not an option. You could probably consider a smartphone that costs around $900 or more, but spending more than that amount just so you can also get a top-of-the-line computer is too much.

Enter Andromium OS -- a new project that aims to solve that exact problem for the average tech users. With the proper and compatible software, an external HD display, and a dock that allows external TV or monitor attachments, you can use your Android phone to serve as an external computer. Its portability and ease of use enables you to use it wherever you go. Want to know more about it? Read on and find out how.

Requirements

Together with the dock and monitor, make sure that your smartphone has Snapdragon 800 or better processor, at least 2 GB RAM, and runs on KitKat 4.4.2 and above. For the monitor, it needs to be at least 1080p, and you need to have a mouse and keyboard (USB or Bluetooth is fine). As for software, you need to download and install the Andromium OS app, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. Be reminded that you may experience some bugs since it is still in beta version.

Andromium OS Features

Andromium OS is designed to mimic a regular computer OS, inspired from Windows 7 and OS X. There's nothing fancy about about this OS, but it performs functions like overlapping windows, multitasking, and mouse and keyboard navigation.

The Andromium OS features a menu bar, start menu, and a taskbar that looks similar to Windows 7. Aside from those mentioned, other basic functions include word processing, web browsing, and file management. You can also play light games such as Super Smash Brothers. The OS also allows you to access word processing software such as Google Docs and Microsoft Word online. The app also lets you stream videos and watch movies effortlessly.

You can still use your smartphone -- receive calls without physically picking it up, notifications, and messages even if you're running the app. Andromium OS also offers a few apps such as media players, a browser, and an office suite.

Supported Devices

At the moment, Andromium OS officially supports the following devices:

·         Samsung Galaxy S3, S4, S5

·         Samsung Galaxy Note 2/3/4

·         Samsung Galaxy Edge

As for the following units, testings have been done although there have been no detailed testing so you may use it with caution:

·         HTC One M7/8/One E8

·         LG G2/G3

·         Oppo One Plus One

·         Motorola Droid Turbo

·         Sony Z2/Z3

Why Use Andromium OS?

Instead of spending thousands of dollars on a desktop computer, you can solve your dilemma by using your smartphone to double as one. If your purpose of getting a desktop computer is for using simple programs such as word processing, viewing movies or videos, and storing files only, then the Andromium OS is the perfect solution for you.

And since it's still in its beta stage, we may have to wait and see what will become of Andromium and how it will fare to the consumers. But there's no harm in trying it out for yourself and find out how it will benefit you.

Approach The World of New Technologies with Confidence: It's Not That Hard to Keep Up with It

Technology is considered to be the greatest agent of change in the modern world. While never without risk, positive technological breakthroughs promise innovative solutions to the most pressing global challenges of our time, from resource scarcity to global environmental change.  

One problem facing technology is the lack of appropriate investment, outdated regulatory frameworks, and gaps in public understanding prevent many promising technologies from achieving their potential.

Another problem, and the one that hits home with the masses, is attempting to keep up with technology, and failing.

It’s true that even while some technologies fail due to what was mentioned in the first problem, in the field of communications and the Internet, this is not so. In fact, many complain that it is hard to keep up with technology because the smartphone or app they buy today may be obsolete in just 6 months. But then, when we say “keeping up,” is it keeping up just to have the latest in technology, like the latest iPhone or the latest tablet, or is it merely keeping up to improve how to do things at work or at home?

When we attempt to keep up just to stay in trend, then the true purpose of technology is lost. A new smartphone model with new features that come with it may benefit some but not all, and this applies to all technologies. Technology should be bought and used as we need them and how useful they are to us, and not merely to just “keep up.”

So instead of just keeping up, here are a few technologies that we can all face with confidence because somehow in the future, we will need them.

Brain-computer interfaces

It is already possible to type just by monitoring the electrical activity of your brain, but as the technology advances, it could be possible for people with disabilities to operate wheelchairs using only their thoughts.

Body-adapted wearable electronics

Whether worn on the body, embedded in clothes or even under the skin, these devices can track information, such as heart rate and stress levels, giving people real-time feedback about their health.

Screenless display

A 3D image projected into space, or simply a screenless display, can convey information that a 2D image presented on a screen cannot, and is close to becoming a practical reality. One of the more frustrating aspects of modern communications technology is that, as devices have miniaturized, they have become more difficult to interact with; for example, no one types out a novel on a smartphone. The lack of space on screen-based displays provides a clear opportunity for screenless displays to fill the gap. Full-sized keyboards can already be projected onto a surface for users to interact with, without concern over whether it will fit into their pocket. Perhaps evoking memories of the early Star Wars films, holographic images can now be generated in three dimensions.

Nanowire lithium-ion batteries

New batteries based on silicon and using tiny silicon nanowires can have a longer life, charge more quickly, and hold up to three times the power of existing batteries.

4 Free Tools That Enables You to Sync iTunes Music to Your Android Device

You could say that it's easy to sync your music and other files, store and organize your music/video, and purchase apps with iTunes if your device is an iPod, iPhone, or iPad. If you ever tried using iTunes with an Android phone, you'd notice that it doesn't detect your device, which makes it unable to sync your smart playlist. The good news is that it's not difficult to get your playlist across the cable to your phone. Check out these four completely free tools that you can use to enable you to sync iTunes music to your Android device.

1. Sailing Media Sync

Sailing Media Sync is a utility that allows you to sync your iTunes music, playlists, podcasts, and photos from iPhoto or Aperture onto your Android device. Its free version copies all your media files every time it performs a sync. It does not keep a record of what has already been synced. The entire syncing process may take a while depending on the size of your media library. On the other hand, you can get the premium version for $22, in which it can intelligently update your phone, resulting to a much quicker sync.

All you need to do is to plug in your Android device with the USB cable, and then turn on its USB storage mode function. Sailing Media Sync will then automatically detect your device and will prompt you to perform a synchronization. You can choose from the list whether you would like to sync music, podcast, and/or photos. This free utility is available for both Windows and Mac platforms.

To download Sailing Media Sync, click here.

2. iTuneMyWalkman

The iTuneMyWalkman is an open-source application that helps you to synchronize the contents of iTunes playlists to your mobile phone or other portable device, including Android phones.

Here are some features of the iTuneMyWalkman tool:

·         Synchronizes the contents of specific iTunes playlists to your mobile phone/other device.

·         Detects automatically when the device is connected.

·         Creates directory structure according to information for artist/album, playlist or genre.

·         Recognizes albums with various artists and tracks with featured artists.

·         Copied files can be re-encoded on the fly to save space.

·         Play counts can be incremented automatically when songs are transferred.

·         Pictures and videos taken with the phone camera can be automatically moved to a user-specified location on your hard disk during synchronization.

Take note that it may take a long time during the first synchronization process should you have a large media library.

To download iTuneMyWalkman, click here.

3. Dazzboard

The reason why Dazzboard is different from other apps is because it is a web app that works within your Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer, or Safari browser. Before you can use this tool, you need to download and install a plugin from the Dazzboard site. Once you have installed the plugin, you can visit the website again and you'll be prompted to launch the web app.

Within the app, you can select the music/video/photo/playlist from either device (your computer and Android phone), and transfer between the two devices. In Windows, you can even sync your Android applications to your desktop. The Dazzboard tool is available for Windows and Mac.

To download Dazzboard, click here.

4. DoubleTwist

Last, but not the least, meet DoubleTwist. This is an awesome media player that many even touted it as the "iTunes for Android." After you have installed it in your Mac or Windows computer, DoubleTwist will automatically import your iTunes music and playlist. It has the ability to detect your Android phone when you connect it to your Mac, and gives you the option to sync your media content. The DoubleTwist tool can be used on both Windows and Mac platforms.

To download DoubleTwist, click here.