Last week, in Part 1, I wrote about the first five tech tips which were: document scanning, modern calculators, print screenshots on your computers and phones, how to turn on and use the built-in laser pointer that comes with PowerPoint, and the finish for last week, some easy smart home thoughts.
Today we move on to the last of the 10 Tech Tricks.
Starting with number six today, if you have not jumped on the smart TV bandwagon yet, do not fret. You can transform your older TV into a smart one with a simple, affordable device. Gadgets like Roku, Chromecast, or Amazon Fire TV Stick, plug right into your TV’s HDMI port. Suddenly, you have access to streaming services, live events, and even online classes. It is like giving an older TV a new lease on life. But wait, you say your TV does not have an HDMI Port to plug into? For very little money, compared to the past, you can get a very decent, large-sized TV that has it all built in. To give you an idea, when smart TV sets first hit the market, a 40-inch smart TV could run you two to three thousand dollars. Today I have seen them for between two and three hundred dollars for ones that are far better than the originals. I have even seen 55-inch TVs for those lower prices, or not much more.
Number seven today is priceless, well ok, it does cost to own a smartphone or computer. Do you remember the days of unfolding massive paper maps or printing out MapQuest directions? Those days are long gone. Your smartphone has built-in GPS that’s more accurate and user-friendly than ever. Whether you are navigating a new city or just trying to find that new restaurant in town, your phone has all you need. You can now contribute to the popularity, or dislike, of a business you want to tell the world about. All of this from the comfort of your phone. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road if you’re driving! I just feel awful for the young people today that cannot read a paper map or know how to gain the great satisfaction of being able to fold one and fit it back in the glove compartment.
For the eighth tip today how about keeping your hands free and accomplishing much? Have you tried using voice commands on your devices? Whether it is Siri on an iPhone or Google Assistant on Android, these virtual helpers can do everything from setting reminders to answering trivia questions. It is like having a personal assistant in your pocket. Just start with “Hey Siri” or “OK Google” and prepare to be amazed. I use Google often while driving. My map is usually on directing me to the most direct way to get somewhere, when I think of something I need to do. While driving, without distracting me from that main task, I say, “Hey Google, send a text to Robin…” I wait a second or so and it says, “what is your message?” I say, “Sorry, but I will be about 25 minutes late tonight.” It then asks if I am ready to send the message, I say, “yes,” and Robin has it a few seconds later.
Now number nine is really related to the preceding one. Almost my entire family likes to keep up with each other, some of us are nosy but some want to be able to help. We use Google Maps and set it up so that we can see where everyone is at all times. It helps if one of us is lost for some strange reason, has a breakdown, and we need to get to them to help. Or even as one creative member of the family thinks, “What if I am kidnapped, you will know where I am?!” I hope that never happens to anyone. It is easy to do and if you want to know how, just YouTube it. (Wow, did I invent a new verb?)
The last one, #10, for you today can be a real game-changer for the forgetful (like me). Devices like Tile can be attached to your keys, wallet, or anything else you tend to misplace. Then, you can use an app on your phone to locate them. It is like having a homing beacon for all your important stuff. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver. Oh, did you misplace your phone? No worries there, both Androids and iPhones can be found when missing without adding anything extra. Check out how here, ghtech.site/find-phone.
Voicemail Ron