Trevor Greene – Etiole http://www.etiole.com Dream Tech. Live Tech. Sat, 12 May 2012 03:40:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Stay tuned for WWDC 2010 updates! http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/todays-the-day-stay-tuned-for-wwdc-2010-updates/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/todays-the-day-stay-tuned-for-wwdc-2010-updates/#respond Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:06:36 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4600 So today’s the day half of the tech world has been looking forward too since this same time last year.  Lots of rumors are flying, a lot of which we hope to be true.  Stay tuned for updates on anything important from WWDC 2010 on Etiole.com and have an awesome Monday!  Is there a better way to kick of the start of a new week than with the  unveiling of a new Apple product, I don’t think so!

We’ll be having a liveblog event up tomorrow at 10 am PDT. Better be there if you don’t want to Miss the news!

]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/todays-the-day-stay-tuned-for-wwdc-2010-updates/feed/ 0 Jawbone ICON: One Cool Bluetooth Device Reviewed http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/jawbone-icon-one-cool-bluetooth-device-reviewed/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/jawbone-icon-one-cool-bluetooth-device-reviewed/#comments Fri, 04 Jun 2010 08:32:31 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4575

In the world of bluetooth headsets one could easily be overwhelmed when picking and choosing what fits their needs best.  Some are hugely expensive and offer relatively nothing more than the cheapest headset at the local Quickie-Mart while others are reasonably priced and come with all the bells and whistles.  Recently we were able to test such a device in shop, the Jawbone ICON, and we have the whole broken down review just ahead!

Here We Go!

First off, the packaging is beautiful, modern, and eye catching.  After gazing for a second your attention is grabbed by the seemed-to-be floating headset in the top of the box.  A quick slide of the bottom of the packaging reveals a whole slew of accessories, from ear hooks to ear buds.  Included are an array of sizes of soft ear buds to be used with the provided ear hook, or one could choose the specialized Jawbone ear buds that can be maneuvered to fit in your ear without the hook, giving everything a more sophisticated feel.  I personally could not get used to this feel and opted for the ear hook instead but I believe this is more of a personal preference and not a flaw of the product. Initial Power Up and Pair The initial power up and pair of the ICON was unarguably one of the easiest I've ever done.  Basically, even a user with basic tech knowledge could read the clear, short instruction cheat sheet provided and successfully pair it with their phone.  After completing the set-up I realized I needed to put the device on the charger.  This was odd because the box said it should be partially charged although it only turned on for 5-10 minutes.  This was not a hassle though, as the Jawbone ICON can fully charge in just 90 minutes.  Thats a full charge people! Personalization One thing I absolutely loved about the Jawbone ICON was that it could be easily personalized unlike any other bluetooth out there.  With a quick visit to this site I found out some of the amazing things you can do with this headset, such as viewing the battery of the headset on my iPhone's status bar straight out of the box.  One other I tried was free 411.  After setting up I can confirm that they do in fact offer free 411, although it is ad supported and not very enjoyable to use.  Still useful nonetheless.  The website also allows you to personalize the voice of your bluetooth, who reads you your estimated battery life and alerts you of a caller.  This was easy to do also and only required about 10 minutes of syncing, plugging the headset into the PC with the provided USB cable, and visiting a webpage to preform the update.  I was very impressed with these features because I have yet to see them on any other bluetooth headset available on the market today. Sound Quality After using the JAwbone ICON for a couple of long conversations I was able to easily form my opinion regarding my experiences of the sound quality.  On my end the call was amazing, better than using just my cellphone.  I enjoyed a noticeable difference in peoples voices, background noise and overall quality.  When speaking to my grandfather he said he could hear me good but couldn't tell a drastic difference from the other times I have spoken to him without the device.  Others basically reported the same thing, really good quality but no huge noticeable difference from other calls.  I believe me listening for the changes and being able to distinguish good quality sounds made my judgement a little better than most who were taken back when told they were being spoken to on a bluetooth.  Overall the sound was good, utilizing the dual microphones built in for wind reduction and noise, and made hard conversations that much easier. Continued Use and Impressions After using the device for a few more days I realized I have become dependent on it for most long or even brief conversations.  Something about the freedom of being able to do things while having a conversation with someone makes me very happy.  Since the battery life on my iPhone is less than perfect, I opted to turn the headset off when it wasn't being directly used to conserve juice.  Surprisingly even after turning it off, which causes the two to unpair, the second the switch is turned back on the two are reconnected like nothing ever happened.  I found this to be a huge time saver because every bluetooth I've ever used required a repair after the device was shut off, which is usually about a 10 minute job.  In the end, I would most definitely recommend the Jawbone ICON to anyone who plans on getting use out of their device and needs something of great quality.  The MSRP is only $99.99 and can be purchased at here or at your local electronics store. A special thanks to Jawbone for allowing us such an awesome review unit.  Stay tuned for future comparison reviews with some other leading bluetooth headsets!  Comments are appreciated, especially if you've used a Jawbone ICON before.]]>

In the world of bluetooth headsets one could easily be overwhelmed when picking and choosing what fits their needs best.  Some are hugely expensive and offer relatively nothing more than the cheapest headset at the local Quickie-Mart while others are reasonably priced and come with all the bells and whistles.  Recently we were able to test such a device in shop, the Jawbone ICON, and we have the whole broken down review just ahead!

Here We Go!

First off, the packaging is beautiful, modern, and eye catching.  After gazing for a second your attention is grabbed by the seemed-to-be floating headset in the top of the box.  A quick slide of the bottom of the packaging reveals a whole slew of accessories, from ear hooks to ear buds.  Included are an array of sizes of soft ear buds to be used with the provided ear hook, or one could choose the specialized Jawbone ear buds that can be maneuvered to fit in your ear without the hook, giving everything a more sophisticated feel.  I personally could not get used to this feel and opted for the ear hook instead but I believe this is more of a personal preference and not a flaw of the product. Initial Power Up and Pair The initial power up and pair of the ICON was unarguably one of the easiest I've ever done.  Basically, even a user with basic tech knowledge could read the clear, short instruction cheat sheet provided and successfully pair it with their phone.  After completing the set-up I realized I needed to put the device on the charger.  This was odd because the box said it should be partially charged although it only turned on for 5-10 minutes.  This was not a hassle though, as the Jawbone ICON can fully charge in just 90 minutes.  Thats a full charge people! Personalization One thing I absolutely loved about the Jawbone ICON was that it could be easily personalized unlike any other bluetooth out there.  With a quick visit to this site I found out some of the amazing things you can do with this headset, such as viewing the battery of the headset on my iPhone's status bar straight out of the box.  One other I tried was free 411.  After setting up I can confirm that they do in fact offer free 411, although it is ad supported and not very enjoyable to use.  Still useful nonetheless.  The website also allows you to personalize the voice of your bluetooth, who reads you your estimated battery life and alerts you of a caller.  This was easy to do also and only required about 10 minutes of syncing, plugging the headset into the PC with the provided USB cable, and visiting a webpage to preform the update.  I was very impressed with these features because I have yet to see them on any other bluetooth headset available on the market today. Sound Quality After using the JAwbone ICON for a couple of long conversations I was able to easily form my opinion regarding my experiences of the sound quality.  On my end the call was amazing, better than using just my cellphone.  I enjoyed a noticeable difference in peoples voices, background noise and overall quality.  When speaking to my grandfather he said he could hear me good but couldn't tell a drastic difference from the other times I have spoken to him without the device.  Others basically reported the same thing, really good quality but no huge noticeable difference from other calls.  I believe me listening for the changes and being able to distinguish good quality sounds made my judgement a little better than most who were taken back when told they were being spoken to on a bluetooth.  Overall the sound was good, utilizing the dual microphones built in for wind reduction and noise, and made hard conversations that much easier. Continued Use and Impressions After using the device for a few more days I realized I have become dependent on it for most long or even brief conversations.  Something about the freedom of being able to do things while having a conversation with someone makes me very happy.  Since the battery life on my iPhone is less than perfect, I opted to turn the headset off when it wasn't being directly used to conserve juice.  Surprisingly even after turning it off, which causes the two to unpair, the second the switch is turned back on the two are reconnected like nothing ever happened.  I found this to be a huge time saver because every bluetooth I've ever used required a repair after the device was shut off, which is usually about a 10 minute job.  In the end, I would most definitely recommend the Jawbone ICON to anyone who plans on getting use out of their device and needs something of great quality.  The MSRP is only $99.99 and can be purchased at here or at your local electronics store. A special thanks to Jawbone for allowing us such an awesome review unit.  Stay tuned for future comparison reviews with some other leading bluetooth headsets!  Comments are appreciated, especially if you've used a Jawbone ICON before.]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/jawbone-icon-one-cool-bluetooth-device-reviewed/feed/ 15 BookArc for iPad : Where your iPad belongs http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/bookarc-for-ipad-where-your-ipad-belongs/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/bookarc-for-ipad-where-your-ipad-belongs/#comments Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:36:44 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4583

Here at Etiole.com we recently acquired a BookArc for iPad specially designed by Twelve South out of Charleston, SC.  After a couple days of use we have come to one conclusion; the BookArc for iPad is where your iPad belongs.  Not your hands, not your backpack, not even in a case, but resting on this beautiful piece of steel is the ideal.  Ahead is a short review but theres not much to say other than this product is nothing short of amazing! Un-boxing Twelve South is known for their awesome packaging and how they've designed it to be reusable in a number of ways.  Included are 12 ways you could reuse the packaging although there are countless ideas listed on their site.  For now our box is resting on a shelf but we're determined to find  a use for it that helps us and is good for the environment. Uses The BookArc for iPad can be used for a number of things.  Your iPad can dock in portrait or landscape mode and be connected to the charger in both positions also.  This stand is perfect for watching movies, listening to music, having a streaming email screen on your desk or just about anything.  Other than being a means of adding more productivity to your iPad it also protects it.   Scratching your aluminum back on your table, denting it with a corner or damaging it with a spilled drink can all be avoided when using the BookArc for iPad. What it does best The BookArc for iPad has proven to be a lifesaver when we've had to type long documents using Pages for iPad.  Apple's bluetooth keyboard or a generic one paired  with the BookArc for iPad gives you the functionality of a desktop when needed and can make your iPad experience that much more pleasurable. Overall we feel the BookArc for iPad is a must-have accessory and is very reasonably priced for what it does.  It's also made out of heavy gauge steel so you know it will last forever.  If your impressed run out to your local Apple store with two crisp Jackson's or order one via Twelve South's site here. ]]>

Here at Etiole.com we recently acquired a BookArc for iPad specially designed by Twelve South out of Charleston, SC.  After a couple days of use we have come to one conclusion; the BookArc for iPad is where your iPad belongs.  Not your hands, not your backpack, not even in a case, but resting on this beautiful piece of steel is the ideal.  Ahead is a short review but theres not much to say other than this product is nothing short of amazing! Un-boxing Twelve South is known for their awesome packaging and how they've designed it to be reusable in a number of ways.  Included are 12 ways you could reuse the packaging although there are countless ideas listed on their site.  For now our box is resting on a shelf but we're determined to find  a use for it that helps us and is good for the environment. Uses The BookArc for iPad can be used for a number of things.  Your iPad can dock in portrait or landscape mode and be connected to the charger in both positions also.  This stand is perfect for watching movies, listening to music, having a streaming email screen on your desk or just about anything.  Other than being a means of adding more productivity to your iPad it also protects it.   Scratching your aluminum back on your table, denting it with a corner or damaging it with a spilled drink can all be avoided when using the BookArc for iPad. What it does best The BookArc for iPad has proven to be a lifesaver when we've had to type long documents using Pages for iPad.  Apple's bluetooth keyboard or a generic one paired  with the BookArc for iPad gives you the functionality of a desktop when needed and can make your iPad experience that much more pleasurable. Overall we feel the BookArc for iPad is a must-have accessory and is very reasonably priced for what it does.  It's also made out of heavy gauge steel so you know it will last forever.  If your impressed run out to your local Apple store with two crisp Jackson's or order one via Twelve South's site here. ]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/bookarc-for-ipad-where-your-ipad-belongs/feed/ 4 Win some of these awesome decals to dress your new iPad in! http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/win-some-of-these-awesome-decals-to-dress-your-new-ipad-in/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/win-some-of-these-awesome-decals-to-dress-your-new-ipad-in/#comments Wed, 02 Jun 2010 06:10:46 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4561

We have collected some of the coolest, most unique decals to dress your new iPad in that can easily be yours.  We are giving away one of each of the pictured decals to 5 lucky winners, thats one decal per winner!  Attached are links to purchase the decals directly that are competitively priced around $10 USD also. The contest will run for the remaining of the week and end at midnight on Sunday (Eastern Standard Time).  The 5 lucky winners will be chosen at random on Monday and notified. Contest is open to all residents of Earth*. To Enter, You must tweet this article or share this article via Facebook. An example tweet could be,

Count me in for the Fabulous iPad Decals Contest! http://hop.im/cYD #ipdc

Remember, the tag for our contest is #ipdc so use it wherever you share it along with a link to the post!  Well, here they are.  Amazing and creative huh? Apple Maze from MacSlaps via Etsy.com. Twitter Bird from MacSlaps via Etsy.com.   Mr. Potato Head from MacSlaps via Etsy.com. Snow White from CraftyGalDecals via Etsy.com. LegoMan from CraftyGalDecals via Etsy.com. Some other really cool decals we though we'd share follows.  They are not included in the contest and will not be given away but are still available via the sellers site. Abbey Road from CraftyGalDecals via Etsy.com.   Coffee Rings from MacSlaps via Etsy.com. As you can see the creativity never ends when new devices like this are released.  Feel free to check out these sellers shops where you can purchase these decals and so many more.  Also, don't forget to enter the contest and spread the word! *Winner will be responsible for pick-up or shipping fees.]]>

We have collected some of the coolest, most unique decals to dress your new iPad in that can easily be yours.  We are giving away one of each of the pictured decals to 5 lucky winners, thats one decal per winner!  Attached are links to purchase the decals directly that are competitively priced around $10 USD also. The contest will run for the remaining of the week and end at midnight on Sunday (Eastern Standard Time).  The 5 lucky winners will be chosen at random on Monday and notified. Contest is open to all residents of Earth*. To Enter, You must tweet this article or share this article via Facebook. An example tweet could be,

Count me in for the Fabulous iPad Decals Contest! http://hop.im/cYD #ipdc

Remember, the tag for our contest is #ipdc so use it wherever you share it along with a link to the post!  Well, here they are.  Amazing and creative huh? Apple Maze from MacSlaps via Etsy.com. Twitter Bird from MacSlaps via Etsy.com.   Mr. Potato Head from MacSlaps via Etsy.com. Snow White from CraftyGalDecals via Etsy.com. LegoMan from CraftyGalDecals via Etsy.com. Some other really cool decals we though we'd share follows.  They are not included in the contest and will not be given away but are still available via the sellers site. Abbey Road from CraftyGalDecals via Etsy.com.   Coffee Rings from MacSlaps via Etsy.com. As you can see the creativity never ends when new devices like this are released.  Feel free to check out these sellers shops where you can purchase these decals and so many more.  Also, don't forget to enter the contest and spread the word! *Winner will be responsible for pick-up or shipping fees.]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/win-some-of-these-awesome-decals-to-dress-your-new-ipad-in/feed/ 13 What we want and expect from Steve Jobs’ Keynote at WWDC 2010 http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/what-we-want-and-expect-from-steve-jobs-keynote-at-wwdc-2010/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/what-we-want-and-expect-from-steve-jobs-keynote-at-wwdc-2010/#comments Wed, 02 Jun 2010 06:00:23 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4539

As most of you already know Apple's annual WWDC has been confirmed for June 7th - 11th, 2010 at Moscone West in San Francisco, California.  Every year since the first iPhone was released a new version has been announced at the WWDC.   If you have an ounce of  love for Apple products then your more than likely on your knees praying for an iPhone 4G to be announced in the coming weeks, I know I am.

Anyways, we here at Etiole.com are expecting WWDC to highlight the new iPhone 4G, the finishing touches of iPhone OS 4.0, a possible addition of a new iPhone supported wireless carrier, Verizon Wireless, and a slim chance of a Macbook Air refresh.  Despite rumors of AT&T's exclusivity being good until next summer we believe there is a small chance Apple may pull a bunny out of a hat and surprise everyone, something Steve has been known to do.

With positive reviews of the iPhone OS 4.0 Beta pouring in we are predicting a fast release of the iPhone 4G and hopefully a closer date for the iPad software update.  Well, thats it.  I hope Apple will focus on the iPhone 4G and really create a hype, one even better than the original iPhone created back in '07.

If they succeed I may just have to reward myself with the shiny new device people are betting their farms on to be released.  What are some rumors you'd love to see a reality and what do you expect to go down at WWDC 2010?  Answer in the comments section!

]]>

As most of you already know Apple's annual WWDC has been confirmed for June 7th - 11th, 2010 at Moscone West in San Francisco, California.  Every year since the first iPhone was released a new version has been announced at the WWDC.   If you have an ounce of  love for Apple products then your more than likely on your knees praying for an iPhone 4G to be announced in the coming weeks, I know I am.

Anyways, we here at Etiole.com are expecting WWDC to highlight the new iPhone 4G, the finishing touches of iPhone OS 4.0, a possible addition of a new iPhone supported wireless carrier, Verizon Wireless, and a slim chance of a Macbook Air refresh.  Despite rumors of AT&T's exclusivity being good until next summer we believe there is a small chance Apple may pull a bunny out of a hat and surprise everyone, something Steve has been known to do.

With positive reviews of the iPhone OS 4.0 Beta pouring in we are predicting a fast release of the iPhone 4G and hopefully a closer date for the iPad software update.  Well, thats it.  I hope Apple will focus on the iPhone 4G and really create a hype, one even better than the original iPhone created back in '07.

If they succeed I may just have to reward myself with the shiny new device people are betting their farms on to be released.  What are some rumors you'd love to see a reality and what do you expect to go down at WWDC 2010?  Answer in the comments section!

]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/06/what-we-want-and-expect-from-steve-jobs-keynote-at-wwdc-2010/feed/ 1 Make Skype calls over 3G on AT&T http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/make-skype-calls-over-3g-on-att/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/make-skype-calls-over-3g-on-att/#respond Mon, 31 May 2010 15:34:59 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4546

With the new release of Skype 2.0 users were greeted with a couple of new, although expected, features.  You can now make Skype-to-Skype calls over 3G on AT&T's network.  This was announced sometime last year, and already in use on Verizon's compatible devices, but just now deployed by the VoIP giant for AT&T's iPhone users. The long awaited app also came with some not so great news, users will soon have to pay for Skype calls made on their mobile phones.  After August of this year you will need to purchase a subscription to make calls over 3G, although WiFi calls will still remain free.  It's hard to tell if Skype is digging themselves a grave here but lets put it this way; free is and always will be better.  Let us know what you think!]]>

With the new release of Skype 2.0 users were greeted with a couple of new, although expected, features.  You can now make Skype-to-Skype calls over 3G on AT&T's network.  This was announced sometime last year, and already in use on Verizon's compatible devices, but just now deployed by the VoIP giant for AT&T's iPhone users. The long awaited app also came with some not so great news, users will soon have to pay for Skype calls made on their mobile phones.  After August of this year you will need to purchase a subscription to make calls over 3G, although WiFi calls will still remain free.  It's hard to tell if Skype is digging themselves a grave here but lets put it this way; free is and always will be better.  Let us know what you think!]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/make-skype-calls-over-3g-on-att/feed/ 0 Video chat on the Sprint EVO 4G to be FREE! http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/video-chat-on-the-sprint-evo-4g-to-be-free/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/video-chat-on-the-sprint-evo-4g-to-be-free/#comments Mon, 31 May 2010 15:32:44 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4542

Qik, the company behind the video chat service featured on the Sprint EVO 4G, has confirmed today on their blog that their service will be free for all users who adopt the new device, although a Sprint data plan is still required.  This came after many floating rumors and speculation stating the service would be a premium feature and would cost anywhere from $5-$10, which was clearly proved to be just that, rumors,  by Qik today. According to the sites blog the core video chat service will be absolutely free although they will offer to-be-announced premium features for an undetermined price, these being completely optional of course.  Be sure to check out Qik's website on June 4th for a complete list of features and services, this also being the launch day for the highly anticipated Sprint EVO 4G.  Comments are always welcome!]]>

Qik, the company behind the video chat service featured on the Sprint EVO 4G, has confirmed today on their blog that their service will be free for all users who adopt the new device, although a Sprint data plan is still required.  This came after many floating rumors and speculation stating the service would be a premium feature and would cost anywhere from $5-$10, which was clearly proved to be just that, rumors,  by Qik today. According to the sites blog the core video chat service will be absolutely free although they will offer to-be-announced premium features for an undetermined price, these being completely optional of course.  Be sure to check out Qik's website on June 4th for a complete list of features and services, this also being the launch day for the highly anticipated Sprint EVO 4G.  Comments are always welcome!]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/video-chat-on-the-sprint-evo-4g-to-be-free/feed/ 3 Can I take your order…… on my iPad? http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/can-i-take-your-order-on-my-ipad/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/can-i-take-your-order-on-my-ipad/#comments Wed, 12 May 2010 05:32:45 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4432

Shortly after the release of the Apple iPad people are already using it to accomplish tasks never imagined to be completed with an "oversized iPod".  One prime example is this video of a restaurant owner/chef who's has reinvented taking a dinner order.  He uses an iPad to completely key in his customers requests, down to their wine preference. My guess is that it won't be long before some national chains grab this by the coat tail and runs with it.  But hey, it is a green alternative to wasting countless paper tickets every day right? Take a look for yourself. Via [Techi]]]>

Shortly after the release of the Apple iPad people are already using it to accomplish tasks never imagined to be completed with an "oversized iPod".  One prime example is this video of a restaurant owner/chef who's has reinvented taking a dinner order.  He uses an iPad to completely key in his customers requests, down to their wine preference. My guess is that it won't be long before some national chains grab this by the coat tail and runs with it.  But hey, it is a green alternative to wasting countless paper tickets every day right? Take a look for yourself. Via [Techi]]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/can-i-take-your-order-on-my-ipad/feed/ 1 Android 2.2 burns the rubber : Runs 450% faster than 2.1! http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/android-2-2-burns-the-rubber-runs-450-faster-than-2-1/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/android-2-2-burns-the-rubber-runs-450-faster-than-2-1/#respond Wed, 12 May 2010 05:05:02 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4420

Some lucky dogs over at Android Police have been spotted running the absolute newest build of Android, Froyo 2.2, on a Google Nexus One.  Aside from the appearance upgrades and overall bug fixes, 2.2 is about 4 1/2 times or 450% faster than its predecessor, 2.1 Eclair. Although this update of the increasingly popular Android OS hasn't been formally released or advertised, it's future looks rather bright!  Expect some awesome new hardware to go along with the new speedy system sometime rather soon. If you forgot, Adobe is planning for a flash release on 2.2 too and looking at it's performance right now on the speedometer, it seems Android is indeed going to rock it! Would this prove Steve Jobs 1000+ word essay wrong? Stay Tuned! You can check out Android Police's benchmarks here. Know what would go great with the new Froyo 2.2? The newly announced Square App for Android.  Stay tuned for more on this! Via [Gizmodo]]]>

Some lucky dogs over at Android Police have been spotted running the absolute newest build of Android, Froyo 2.2, on a Google Nexus One.  Aside from the appearance upgrades and overall bug fixes, 2.2 is about 4 1/2 times or 450% faster than its predecessor, 2.1 Eclair. Although this update of the increasingly popular Android OS hasn't been formally released or advertised, it's future looks rather bright!  Expect some awesome new hardware to go along with the new speedy system sometime rather soon. If you forgot, Adobe is planning for a flash release on 2.2 too and looking at it's performance right now on the speedometer, it seems Android is indeed going to rock it! Would this prove Steve Jobs 1000+ word essay wrong? Stay Tuned! You can check out Android Police's benchmarks here. Know what would go great with the new Froyo 2.2? The newly announced Square App for Android.  Stay tuned for more on this! Via [Gizmodo]]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/android-2-2-burns-the-rubber-runs-450-faster-than-2-1/feed/ 0 Mr. President, this time you are Tech-nically WRONG : You better get an iPad, dude! http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/this-time-mr-president-you-are-tech-nically-wrong/ http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/this-time-mr-president-you-are-tech-nically-wrong/#comments Tue, 11 May 2010 05:35:50 +0000 http://www.etiole.com/?p=4364

In a recent speech held at Hampton University this past weekend President Obama shed some light on his views regarding some of the newest gadgets recently released in the tech world. One comment from the POTUS went a little something like this "With iPods and iPads and Xboxes and PlayStations -- none of which I know how to work becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment, rather than a tool of empowerment, rather than the means of emancipation,". It’s good to see opinions being formed about devices directly after admitting you haven’t a clue how to work on a single one.  True that in some cases these devices can be used as a distraction, but this is so with just about anything. To me a comment like this was prematurely blurted, not only offending a lot of people, but discouraging parents from buying their offspring something like an Apple iPad that can aid as a tool of empowerment and a means of emancipation.  Only time will tell if this is the case and if such devices will truly be used for educational purposes, but from my own experience the future looks bright. As a student who is homeschooled through an online charter school, I can attest to the Apple iPad being a great help in conquering my daily workload.  Basic Apps that come preinstalled on the iPad such as Calendar, Notes and Mail serve as an electronic binder and planner that help me to keep up with assignments, take effective notes in class, and stay in constant contact with my teachers.  Aside from these, the ever expanding App Store offers a variety of productivity and educational Apps.  Three of my personal favorites include the iWork suite of apps, native to the Mac, designed for the iPad and called Pages, Keynote, and Numbers respectively.  These are essential if you plan on doing any word processing, creating spreadsheets or composing awesome presentations. Overall, as with any device, the iPad can be tool of empowerment if the user wishes for it to be.  Since gaining office, Obama has been a huge advocate for making the Nation and White House more technologically advance, claiming it as a tool of advancement and a means to move towards the future, but his most recent tech related comment portrays just the opposite.  I have outlined ways the iPad can be used educationally, but don’t take my word for it.  Make your way to your local Apple Retail Store or Best Buy and try one out.  I’m sure they’ll let you in and President Obama too. Stay tuned for more in depth reviews on educational apps and the Apple iPad as a continuation of this article!]]>

In a recent speech held at Hampton University this past weekend President Obama shed some light on his views regarding some of the newest gadgets recently released in the tech world. One comment from the POTUS went a little something like this "With iPods and iPads and Xboxes and PlayStations -- none of which I know how to work becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment, rather than a tool of empowerment, rather than the means of emancipation,". It’s good to see opinions being formed about devices directly after admitting you haven’t a clue how to work on a single one.  True that in some cases these devices can be used as a distraction, but this is so with just about anything. To me a comment like this was prematurely blurted, not only offending a lot of people, but discouraging parents from buying their offspring something like an Apple iPad that can aid as a tool of empowerment and a means of emancipation.  Only time will tell if this is the case and if such devices will truly be used for educational purposes, but from my own experience the future looks bright. As a student who is homeschooled through an online charter school, I can attest to the Apple iPad being a great help in conquering my daily workload.  Basic Apps that come preinstalled on the iPad such as Calendar, Notes and Mail serve as an electronic binder and planner that help me to keep up with assignments, take effective notes in class, and stay in constant contact with my teachers.  Aside from these, the ever expanding App Store offers a variety of productivity and educational Apps.  Three of my personal favorites include the iWork suite of apps, native to the Mac, designed for the iPad and called Pages, Keynote, and Numbers respectively.  These are essential if you plan on doing any word processing, creating spreadsheets or composing awesome presentations. Overall, as with any device, the iPad can be tool of empowerment if the user wishes for it to be.  Since gaining office, Obama has been a huge advocate for making the Nation and White House more technologically advance, claiming it as a tool of advancement and a means to move towards the future, but his most recent tech related comment portrays just the opposite.  I have outlined ways the iPad can be used educationally, but don’t take my word for it.  Make your way to your local Apple Retail Store or Best Buy and try one out.  I’m sure they’ll let you in and President Obama too. Stay tuned for more in depth reviews on educational apps and the Apple iPad as a continuation of this article!]]> http://www.etiole.com/2010/05/this-time-mr-president-you-are-tech-nically-wrong/feed/ 3