#Its2012WhyYouStill Writing Anything Down: Evernote

That hashtag (#Its2012WhyYouStill) was trending on twitter yesterday. If you look past the grammar, you’ll see the relevance to the squeeze of today’s society to get with the times. On that note, lets get you hip to Evernote, your virtual notebook.

• You can easily make checklists so can keep track of what you’ve actually accomplished.
• A voice recording feature is useful when you have a lot to say, but no time to write.
• Snap pictures with Skitch for those board meeting with more than enough written on the board.
• It’s available on most devices to virtually jot notes down on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. They sync up.
• The web clipper lets you capture the jist of an article minus all the noise that comes with it to view on your mobile devices.
• Tagging your notes makes thing easier to search by category once to get addicted to using the app.
• You can share your notes with others and even give them the ability to edit just in case you missed a key point.

Here’s an example of the Skitch app, for capturing & editing visual notes, in action with Evernote.

I’ve been using it a lot more lately. Evernote made it really easy for me to keep track of the jobs I’m applying to so I can follow back with them later. I’ve talked about it with members of the KJLH team and some have been using it for months already. iPhone and iPad users get a ton of extra features like easy contact sharing abilities that I’m pretty jealous of. Those of you with android should transfer the app to your SD card and download the widget to save room, and keep easy access to the app. So…what do you need help remembering? – @GeicoTheQue
For more tutorials and interesting ways to use Evernote, check out the YouTube Channels of  Evernote Andrew or Butterscotch.

5 Reasons to Start-up your Tech Start-up with NewMe

Have you looked at the latest in tech start-ups like Instagram or Pinterest & thought you could have done that? Get over those jitters & get that new wave idea off the bricks with NewME Accelerator. It’s a 12-week program for developing tech start-ups.

• It’s geared for minorities giving you the strategies tailor-made for your needs.
• They connect you with venture capitalists & teach you how to pitch so you’ll have to worry less about the funding, so you can focus more on the quality of your product.
• You’ll be coached by countless experts in the field.
• You’ll be learning smack dab in the technology capital. Can you say Silicon Valley? If the distance is trouble, you still have the NewMe Community.
• If these weren’t enough, you be privy to various perks from partner accounts.

Here’s a video with the founder, Angela Benton, introducing you to the NewMe Community. If you need more inspiration, check out the NewMe Accelerator Startup House Tour 2012 afterwards.

They are sponsored by Google, Tagged, & HP alike. I know so many people out there with awesome app/website ideas that could use this support system. I have a few, myself. Anybody go live with a start-up already? Be sure to let me know, so I can showcase it right here. I’ve already downloaded the Playdit gamer app, one of the start-ups from the Summer 2011 class. Can’t wait to what you come up with next. – @GeicoTheQue

AT&T 28 Days Campaign for Black History Month

AT&T has one last stop in Detroit for it’s 4th Annual 28 Days series for Black History Month. They’ve been going around the nation visiting African American communities like Howard University promoting the use of technology in making their dreams happen.

• The likes of Common, Holly Robinson Peete, & Mario Armstrong (Tech Guru) have participated on the tour.
• They’ve incorporated Live Stream to allow folks who aren’t so local to be able to view online.
• It’s a free event folks only had to worry about getting a seat.
• An article in the Washington Post reported a girl receiving a laptop when Mario Armstrong saw her taking note on pen and paper.
• They provided leads on websites like Kickstarter and apps like Evernote to help people get the show on the road.

Here’s some inspiring words from Common at their top in Oakland, CA:

It’s an awesome movement. I totally wish they came to Los Angeles. I actually started using the Evernote app myself so be on the lookout for some killer notes on technology, bible scriptures, & whatnot. If you were in attendance let us know how it was. What’s the best technology that you’ve been using to make your dreams come true? - @GeicoTheQue

Pinterest for Business: Boost Your Social Media Marketing

Pinterest is a digital scrapbook. People all over are joining up. If you have a business you might benefit from pinning.

• You create a bulletin board of pictures. This is a great avenue for posting exclusive footage.
• The custom pin-it button makes your website instantly sharable on a high traffic sight also familiarizing people viewing the posters page more aware of your brand.
• Email marketing can be taken advantage of considering that it’s still invite-only. We’ve seen familiar tactics with Google, and you see how that’s flourished.
• Apps for the iPhone & iPad have been made available for the ever increasing mobile users allowing easy navigation and even the ability to pin a photo captured on the go.
• Depending on how many times your pins gets liked or re-pinned, you can begin to gauge the heat of your content.

Here’s a video from Digital Mom Blog’s YouTube page explaining the iPhone app.

We have seen lots of posting websites & apps emerge lately delivering pretty much the similar capabilities for sharing content. What you can’t deny is how viral this is going. I’m actually in the process of posting some snapshots of this beautifully architected park I’ve seen. Got some hairstyles you want to show off to future customers, or show off your ink designs for future tattoos? This site is for you. Feel free to leave links to your Pinterest profile or ask for a invite so you can get your foot in the door in a comment. – @GeicoTheQue

Here’s a nice Pinterest 101 for the website in general.

5 Reasons To Use Bit.Ly To Put Power in Your Post

So everyone is getting twitter now. If you’re one of the newbies/noobs just jumping on the train, it’ll take a lil adjusting to get your thoughts into 140 characters. You definitely could use bit.ly for these reasons:

• You’ll have room to actually let people know what you’re posting about before providing a link.
• When you post a link to a picture and video on Facebook and Twitter, content will actually show up on your timeline without them having to leave your page, or at least a preview.
• Lots of social media clients have integrated the use of Bit.Ly so you don’t have to go far to use it.
• Bit.Ly actually tracks clicks and delivers analytics so you can see demographical information about who’s responding to your posts.
• It also ensures less chance of a mistake on the end-user to getting to your link. Some people have trouble with lengthy links and one typo can cause a misconnection.

I use this all the time. I have a Google Chrome extension that lets me automatically shorten a link of any page I’m on and it copies it to my clipboard for easy pasting as well. Hootsuite has it’s own url shortening system that adds a sharing feature at the top of the page you’re referring to. Let me know if this helps you or if you have any questions. – @GeicoTheQue

7 Ways This App Helps You Stay Strong for Lent

Whether you’re giving up cupcakes or anything else for Lent, it’s going to take some serious support to get you through these 40 days. I’ll using the bible app from YouVersion myself. Here’s why you should too:

• Read from over 200 bibles between languages & translations made available. Different translations of the passages help you get to the core meaning of the passage.
• Some versions are available for download to keep access for times when you don’t have too much service while you’re in service.
• They offer countless reading plans for all different kinds of topics like the bible in a years, relationships, or even Lent.
• You can bookmark & write notes on passages or a collection of them. If you think someone else could benefit from your insights, feel free to share them on your social networks.
• It’s available on blackberries, androids, the iFamily, & more. If you feel like starting a plan online but finishing up on a tablet in bed, that’s no problem.
• If your hands are full, you can listen to a reading as well. This help when driving or during your morning run.
• It’s an online community offering cool features such as Live that allows you to observe highlights of a local upcoming sermon & interact through voting, answering questions, etc.

I could really go on about the cool things you can do with this app. The funniest thing is seeing the looks on my pastor’s face when he sees the congregation on our phones, & tablets following along with the sermon. The kids love it. Definitely a tool for the family. So what plan will you start?
-@GeicoTheQue

Turn Your Phone Into A Mobile Hotspot for Mardi Gras

Having trouble connecting to your local Wi-Fi hotspot? The airport asking you to pay for internet? Sounds like you could use this app called FoxFi. It lets you turn your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Here’s why you should be downloading it:

• It’s free. Purchasing this feature through a cellular provider can cost around a C-Note a month. That’s $1200 a year.
• It allows you to connect multiple devices, instead of Bluetooth and USB tether which usually only allows one connection at a time.
• You don’t have to worry about carrying around an extra device to provide internet access, let alone charging up something else. Your phone is all you need.
• Nearly everyone has a 4G phone nowadays, so you know the connection will be decent enough to navigate on. I’ve heard of online multiplayer games being played with these.
• You can add a password to keep your network private so people like me can’t take all your bandwidth when I see an open network.

So far, it’s only available on the Android Market. I’ve seen a similar app called MyWi that requires you to jailbreak your iPhones first. I’ve always said that an Android phone delivers stock what iPhone/iPad users have to hack their devices to do, but hey. Download the app and tell me how it works for you. Is the speed of the internet up to par? Were you able to upload your pictures and videos to Facebook, Twitter, & YouTube like normal? – @GeicoTheQue
Here’s a link to an informative page on Wi-Fi tethering.

Beat Western Union Transaction Fees With PayPal

Do you have a college student out of state? Are you running an online business? Tired of giving Western Union all your shillings? PayPal might just be the move for you.

• You can send & receive money free over the internet once you register your bank account.
• Adding your bank account as a source of funding is secure & easy requiring responses that only you can verify.
• Once set up, all the recipient of the funds needs to provide is their email linked to their PayPal account.
• To make it faster & easier to use the funds in your PayPal account, one can request a debit card, that can actually earn cash back depending on the type of transactions & card.
• And of course, they have a mobile app for Blackberry,iPhones/iOS, & Android. They’ve even got a nice Mobile Browser site for those with Feature Phones.

Here’s a video showing you a couple of fun ways to use your PayPal Account

My mother used to send me cash instantly when I ran out of Top Ramen money with ease. If you use debit/credit card there is a fee but it pails in comparison to Western Union’s & MoneyGram’s transaction fees. Sending $100 dollars would cost around $3 that could run you around $12 through Western Union. I’d rather have fun, pay less, & lower my blood pressure. What have been your wants in sending money? I’ll let you know if PayPal can help you in any way with that. – @GeicoTheQue
Check out one of the latest in their developments.

5 Reasons To Rock Out With This YouTube Remote

We all love surfing through YouTube videos. Everyone uses it from that college student sharing a viral video, to that CEO getting a laugh when those office hours are taking a toll. Often, we’re even using it on a professional level showing off interviews & presentations. No matter what, we should be making it easier on ourselves. That’s what this YouTube remote app called Clik is for:

• The only installation needed is the app on your phone. All you have to do is go to the link on your browser and it connects with your phone just by scanning a QR code. So easy.
• You can save your posture now instead of having to hunch over a screen or constantly go back an forth to where you’re video is showing.
• It has a multiplayer feature for those of us that are often going back and forth saying, “Now, Check this out.
• You have full control of playback like pausing, skipping, and volume. Some people just want to get to the good part.
• You can mark your favorite videos for easy access. No having to search several times for your favorite #KobeSystem commercials.

This is a video I found on CNET’s YouTube Channel To Show You How To Get Started

I know there are plenty of apps out there turning your phone into a remote for your online video entertainment, but I highly doubt you’ll see any as easy, time-/cost-effective, & universal (Android/iPhone) as this one. I suggest you connect your laptop using that more commonly seen HDMI input & get some quality HDTV YouTube watching in. I was jamming the the Black Eye Peas “I Gotta Feeling” video within seconds. For more details, check out this article from TechCrunch on it.Tell me how you like. What interesting way will you plan to use it? What was the first thing you watched with it?

- @GeicoTheQue

5 Ways ColorDict Can Help Your Presentation Skills

Been putting eBooks on the map like crazy so I know lots of people are diving into some good literature. Chances are you’ll come across some words that you might have to do some research on.
Enter the ColorDict app for Android:

• This app lets you search multiple dictionaries so you can really grasp every avenue of a word.
• You can mark favorites for words you often refer to for ease and quick review.
• It can search Wikipedia which is something we often refer to.
• It has translation capabilities for those of you going on trips or just in a very multicultural environment.
• It’s great for spell checking so you can avoid mistakes costing you a job or sealing the deal with a proposal.

I’ve had so many instances winning arguments over proper word usage because of this app. I never have to go far or look long for a definition. I get a lot of compliments on my diction as well. If you have an iPhone, there is a similar app called Dictionary Universal. Find any better app or have any questions about this one? @GeicoTheQue is here for you.

5 Reasons to Play Words With Friends this Valentine’s Day

Do you know a game that plays more than just a game to be played? Ding, ding, ding. I think we’ve found a winner in Words With Friends. Let me put you on game about this game:

• It’s almost identical to the family favorite we know as scrabble making it easy to get into.
• You can get it on all types of platforms. Not only is it available on android and iPhone; but for those of us that can’t afford expensive smartphones, it’s available on Facebook.
• That vocabulary will definitely rank up after a couple rounds of this making you a better equipped conversationalist at dinner.
• If you don’t have enough real-world friends that play, it has a random opponent feature so you can keep the fun going.
• Playing games sometimes spells Love, as in the occurrence referred to in this Fox News Article.

It’s a pretty addicting game. My line brothers and I go at it like war on this game, and talk just as much smack. You can play multiple people at a time compensating for the time some players take with contemplating world domination in a board game. Have you ever enjoyed playing this game? What’s the fanciest or highest scoring word you’ve ever spelled on it? Have you ever met anyone playing this game or something similar? – @GeicoTheQue

Here’s a video of the game in action on an iPhone.

7 Reasons to Get a Google Voice Number Valentine’s Day

Anybody needing to stay in contact with others needs to know about this. That means pretty much everyone. I’m going to jump right into why you should get a Google voice number:

• You can place and receive calls to your lovers over the internet to real numbers using Gmail.
• The other person doesn’t have to own an app or set-up an account on a website.
• You can send text messages to up 5 people at a time for those of you with more love to give. You can receive text messages as well.
• It has a visual voicemail system that lets you control playback instead of waiting for prompts.
• If the speaker is clear enough, the site will transcribe (write out) the message so you can read it when you don’t have headphones to keep that steamy message to yourself.
• You can screen calls from that person that you didn’t want to go on a date with. You can actually have them announce themselves prior to you accepting their call.
• It’s all free and there are plenty of smartphone apps that allow you to manage it.

I’ve had Google Voice during my entire college career & I’ve been months without having an activated phone. This has gotten me through situations that otherwise would have been even more detrimental. What’s more is that no matter what phone I change to, I’ll be able to keep my Google voice number which forwards calls to whatever phone number I have at the time. I seldom ever hand out my direct number anymore. Does this sound like something you’d be interested in? Could you use a second number for business purposes? Are you always losing phones, text messages, and/or number? Let me know in a comment. If you have any questions, I’d love to answer em.

5 Tech Teachings From Egypt's Facebook Revolution

Heard an inspiring interview of Wael Ghonim, the leader of the Egyptian Facebook revolution, on my  NPR news app which lets me listen to news when I’m walking or at least too busy to use my hands or physically read an article for that matter. Here are some important things I took away from the dialogue:

• Your voice is important. If you have something to say to the world, speak up. You can achieve results. If you have a righteous cause, chances are there are a million people thinking the same thing.
• Protect your identity when needed. Sometimes shouting to the rooftops may not be as advantageous as you think it is.
  Interview of Wael Ghonim, the administrator of the Facebook Revolution in Egypt
  Anonymous posting can be an asset.
• Before posting something, please take your time. Slip-ups like posting from the wrong account, or something as much as T9 misinterpreting what you intended on writing can be detrimental to your cause.
• Reach out to multiple platforms. Wael used twitter as well. Sometimes different types of media are more suitable for different types of networks. Facebook is info intensive, and twitter is more for like quick updates or redirection.
• Keep your message organic. You don’t have to fight so hard for a sense of professionalism all the time. People these days are responding to feeling and emotion. This post is an example of technology and feelings colliding. Passion propels purpose.

We really have to take time an appreciate the liberties we’re given in this country. If we consider how bad it could be and what we do to give reason to restriction, we’d be more thankful and prove to those that seek to shackle a people more belief in productivity with the proper tools. Follow @GeicoTheQue for all your tech advice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I’m here for you.

Scan this for the NPR News App

5 Ways Tagxedo Can Improve Your Valentines Day

This a word cloud created from Tagxedo derived from a search on love. A word cloud is a visual representation of common things written around a certain topic. Here’s how you can use Tagxedo to improve your valentines day:

• You can plug in the URL (web address) to your profile on a dating site to see what stands out to people from the outside looking in.
• With the Tagxedo Twitter App, you can see what the people you’re following are about based on their bios. This will help steer your community to something more preferable.
• You can make that cover page to that V-Day card a little more personalized. Try writing all the admirable qualities you like about that special someone and see what sticks out.
• It’s awesome for resume editing. Plug in that curriculum vitae of yours and you just might be able to adjust enough to get that job. You’re gonna need it if you’re the one paying for the date. lol
• Type in a subject that your partner likes to talk about so you can bone up on some common terms. If you don’t know diddly squat about what they do for fun, at least the might get a kick out of you misusing niche lingo.

tagxedo: creating a word cloud
- YouTube

The website offers 101 ways to use Tagxedo, just in case my 5 suggestions weren’t enough. I’ve also came across a similar website called Wordle that offers similar word cloud capabilities. Looking forward to see what creative ways you come up with using it. Leave a comment with those interesting ideas. Feel free to tweet them to me at @GeicoTheQue. Make sure you join the site through Google friend connect on the side for quicker updates when I post.

7 Reasons The Path app is the Facebook App Killer

Path is an app available for your iPhone and Android. It’s a timeline of your life, like a Journal. Not unlike Facebook. Here’s what you should know about it.

• It allows you to upload the usual types of content like pictures, tag songs, and location.
• It offers the ability of a profile photo as well as a cover photo so you can express yourself visually.
• You do have the ability to privatize your account or just specific content, hence the whole journal theme.
• Not only can you leave a comment on someone's post, but it also lets you attach an emoticon to it. Sometimes the like button just doesn’t cut it.
• You can simultaneously post to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, & Foursquare as well making it super easy to push content to all your favorite networks.
• People can’t blindly search your name & add you. It does allow you to search your contacts & Facebook friends for possible acquaintances.
• You can track how much sleep you’re getting with the unique feature that posts the location and weather based upon where you wake up upon with your.

All in all, I found it to be quite easy to use especially in comparison to the Facebook App. It’s pretty, personal, and practical. Are you going to make the switch? Be sure to follow @GeicoTheQue for more updates on cool apps.

Here’s a QR code to get to the app easily:

Verizon proposes to RedBox: 3 Blessings the Union Brings

Verizon announced today that they plan a joint venture with Redbox, a popular company that administers DVD Rentals in Kiosks. Here are 3 things to look for:

• Not having to burn gas going to your local Vons, Walgreens, or Walmart to access movies, shows, and the like.
• Verizon is known for it’s spectacular broadband services, namely Fios, so you can expect high quality video streaming from the two providers coming together.
• Expect to be able to view content on your smartphones, internet televisions, and tablets for those viewers looking for personal flight entertainment or that person that really knows the Waiting Room takes its name seriously.

A video talking about the venture in December 2011

Don’t be afraid. It’s not Verizon exclusive, if that’s what you’re thinking. In my experience, Redbox has been a delight. Redbox reignited my use of DVD’s because it’s ease of use and cost effectiveness. I’ve used countless promo codes on them. I have no problem following them online with Verizon capabilities. Here’s a link to the original announcement so you can read it from the horse’s press release. How do you feel about this unity? Follow @GeicoTheQue for more.

5 ways #NothingFeelsBetterThan upgrading to Skype 5.8

 

If you’re not familiar with Skype, it’s software that let’s you make audio and video calls over the internet. They’ve just released version 5.8. Here’s why you should be upgrading as soon as possible:

• HD video in 1080p calling is now enabled. It does require an HD webcam. That’s encouragement for video bloggers to step up their came.
• The person you’re connecting with doesn’t even have to have the software if they have a Facebook account. Everyone has a Facebook account.
• Premium accounts allow you share your screen in a group conference. It saves you having to be too wordy  when they can actually see your demonstrations.
• There is a new hotkey for the Push-To-Talk feature. For that walkie-talkie feel when you want someone to hear what you want them to.
• We’ve got friend all over the nation and sometimes a call just isn’t enough. You can use Skype to stay in contact with your missed soldier oversees, your homesick child at Howard University, or maybe just that special someone you just felt like seeing right then and there before you go to sleep.

Here’s a video of Skype being Exhibited at CES 2012

There are other alternatives like Oovoo amongst a host of other programs that offer similar services, but none quite as popular as Skype has grown to be. Considering Microsoft acquired them, you know they have the financial backing to produce high quality product. Think you could benefit from Video-Chatting it up? Leave a comment. I plan on keeping in contact with my Tuskegee Alumni and Friends with it. Don’t forget to follow @GeicoTheQue for more updates.

5 Reasons To Get This For The Next #BigGame

Heard via usatoday, Vizio will release the XVT 3D CinemaWide in March. Use your refund on it because:

• This 58’ screen with an aspect ratio of 21:9 versus 16:9 is the closest thing you’ll get to a home theater.
• Shows stats during the game with plenty room to do it. Good for individuals like myself that need an extra curve to keep up in sports convos. Good for business.
• It’s an Internet TV with apps meaning plenty of entertainment opportunity outside your cable/satellite provider. You could rest easy with having a basic plan.
• Of course, it’s HD. It does provide a 3D experience. It comes with 4 pairs of glasses to accompany it. Tell your friends to get one for their household if they say you don’t have enough.
• Don’t you dare touch the TV after the it’s set-up because it’s bluetooth enabled. Everything is connected these days. You’ll still have to manually pass the chips, for now. lol

Vizio Promo

Found that video on Engadget

Definitely a must have of the season. Aside from the game it’ll be great for the whole family. Grab that digitally remastered version of Beauty and The Beast and make memories. Do you plan on putting one in your living room? Leave a comment why or why not. Follow @GeicoTheQue for more.

5 Things You Should Know About Facebook Stopping Privacy #IPO

The Initial Public Offering of Facebook has been talked about being put into action as early as today. Here’s what @GeicoTheQue has to say:

• Facebook is being valued as critics say as much as $100 Billion
• It means more jobs. Mark Zuckerberg is already building more office space.
• Being held to more responsible to the public mean customer service will greatly improve as to facilitate any technical difficulties.
• More money also means less technical difficulties.
• There is definitely going to be more tailor-made advertisement. Privacy issue or custom shopping assistance? You decide.

Here is a link to more detail from the Chicago Tribune. What are your concerns about Facebook and where it’s going? Leave a comment.

5 Things To Consider About Your Smartphone Security

Cellular phone providers are including what is called Carrier IQ which monitors activity on your smartphone for you blackberry, iPhone, and android owners. Rep. Edward Markey raises attention how much of a security risk this can be. He's currently drafting the Mobile Device Privacy Act which will require expressed consent when people buy phones with this type of software. Most providers claim this software is for diagnostic purposes. Regardless, here are 5 things I think should be on your mind as far as your smartphone usage is concerned:

1. To start with the good that can come from it, realize that this is an effective way for these companies to iron out the kinks. We often are too busy to fill out surveys and sometimes don't even know how to word our problems due to lack of heavy technical backgrounds. It's our troubleshooting agent.
2. It does pose as a security risk. It's said that detailed information is recorded as specific as keystrokes. That means all types of pins, passwords, and the like are being made available. Scary, huh?
3. If advertisement is a goal by this software, we can benefit from the research. I like when an advertisement is more relevant to me. In a day where advertisement is everywhere, I'd rather see someone show me a way to support my Alma mater Tuskegee University than ask me if I'd be interested in enrolling in a trade school when I've already graduated.
4. Privacy is a hot topic these days with SOPA, PIPA, Google, & Facebook all being players and documents in the media's eye. This is another heads up that we have to be aware of the information we put out there. not saying live under a rock. This is a tech blog. I'd never say that. lol
5. Don't risk your job. Most of us use our smartphones for productivity in our industry. You don't want to be held liable because you facilitated a leak for your artist, or revealed key moves your company is about to get a company is about to make to gain a competitive advantage. Those are the types of things that get you the Martha Stewart Treatment.

Take a second look when you are downloading certain apps. I know that android provides different types of sensitive activity an app engages in when you are considering installing a new app. If you want more info on this matter visit ReadWriteweb. How does this affect your decisions in regards to smartphones? Leave a comment with your and follow @GeicoTheQue. I'd love to read and respond to your concerns. Have a blessed and safe day.

Samsung Galaxy Note: Tablet See, Smartphone do.

AT&T is releasing the Samsung Galaxy Note Feb. 19th for $300. Here's why you should consider it:

• It has a 5.3" screen great for viewing all your beautifully recorded home videos and showing them off.
• Those recorded are so beautiful because it records in 1080P HD videos.
• Easier to carry than an iPad or other tablet usually having 7" screens or wider.
• Comes with a stylus for easily jotting down your grocery list before somebody nabs the freshest fruit.
• Fast like that secretary you can't stand wearing mini-dresses to all the company outings. 1.4Ghz baby. Most other high-end phones are 1.2 or less.
• Plus is has an FM radio so you can stay tuned into RadioFree KJLH 102.3FM. Just so you know.

Here's a video review for your convenience:

So what do you think? Do you prefer a larger smartphone or a smaller tablet? Trying question, I know. Leave a comment on your thought of the phone or anything that comes to mind on the subject. Stay following @GeicoTheQue and my facebook page for more updates. Frequent the KJLH Facebook Page for more as well.

JuiceBox: Battery Power @ Happy Hour

Alternate Title: Losing bars at bars.

You're going out, enjoying a good time on a new side of town, only found by GPS on your phone. You want to stay longer but noticed the Grim Reaper of electronics flashing in the top corner of your cellular device.  We know it embarrassing to ask your local mixologist to charge you up and there is no outlet in sight as if they were attempting a more child/inebriated adult friendly environment. What do you do?

That's where juice box come into the picture. It's a payphone-sized mechanism with assorted phone connection cables that let you charge your phone for a flat fee of $2. You swipe your card, plug up, leave, and you can get your card out by swiping it again. Very simple.

My thoughts:

• What's the security like? The last thing I'd want to worry about is my phone being stolen. I came to the bar to relax and take a load off rather then worry about if my google contacts are synced just in case I have to buy a new android phone.
• If it is safe, I like the idea of getting a charge and leaving a phone somewhere because we are so jacked in these days. I know I am. Guess how I got this position? I just had a convo with a friend of the family about a disconnect that developed with someone he was dating due to her constantly in her phone while he was attempting dialogue on a deeper level. Let it go.
• If it really takes, you'll be able to leave that charger at home. I hate lugging around all that extra stuff just in case. I actually have a backpack as a graduate. I don't like full pockets either. My jeans aren't as baggy as they used to be in early high school so that gets really annoying. Halfway through my time at Tuskegee U, I switched to money clips because it got to be such a problem. Not like we had much to fill em with. Broke college student is as common as a Michael Jackson fan.

Its good for establishment owners as fell. Longer battery power, longer stay, higher tab. Not everyone can a own that Motorola RAZR Maxx with 21 hours if talk time. I want it. What do you think about this device? Leave a comment with your thoughts. You think a Los Angeles would love it? Follow @GeicoTheQue for more updates on tech for you.

Juicebox from juicebox on Vimeo.

Mashable has more details. Fastcompany also put out a story on the matter.

Africa is Tweeting for...

Tweetminster (a media analysis company) and Portland Communications developed a map a visual map of location-based tweets and got some dynamic information. South Africa seems to be the MVP of all the countries active on the social media website. The research revealed that their main reasons for tweeting so much is to stay in contact with friends and family, get around a highly regulated society in regards to media exchange, and seek employment. We could learn a thing or two from this info.

1. Location based tweets can be used to derived highly useful info on demographics. If you didn't know twitter allows you to make location-based searches on using advanced settings on search.twitter.com.
2. We're not the only ones using social media to take a stand against political injustice: SOPA, Libya, need I say more. Your voice counts online, at least.
3. Jobs are out there and one way to get one is by tweeting that recruiter. I don't know if they have 140 Character applications or anything but you can at least get your name pulled up that way. There needs to be a PSA announcing the use of social networking fight unemployment. Social media alone opens up for Online Socia Media Ambassadors like myself. Plug.

For more details on the story you can follow this link. Let me know what you think and follow @GeicoTheQue on twitter for your tech talk needs relevant to you.

5 Ways To Get More Followers Than Me #YeahISaidIt

A lot of people ask me how I've gotten my 2000+ followers. I usually tell them it's from road tripping with my fellow Que Dawgs. S/O to Omega Psi Phi. Every time I hit a new city with my frat brothers I'd make friends with people usually by searching locally for things to do in the town via twitter. I understand that going on random expedition with a group of college boys can be a little time-sensitive and cost-ineffective. That's why I'm giving you 5 ways to step your twitter game up.

1. Try tweeting. There are too many times I get request from people to find out they have a 0 tweet account. This makes people feel like a notch on the belt. Some people don't tweet because they don't have any follower. I have to recall an old catch phrase: Build it and they will come. Plus, it looks creepy. Internet security is a big thing these days contributing to so many people privatizing their accounts which is something I don't suggest if you want to implore "followage". Avoid that weird stalker vibe.
2. Go in on trending topics (#TT). These are subjects that are currently being highly tweeted about. They are shown on the side of your twitter page. Some have a "#" in front of them signifying that it's a hashtag (for the purposes of easy searching). If you're not sure what certain trending topics mean whatthetrend.com serves as a good source of explanation. They even have one specific to location.
3. Respond to people that mention you. It gives people confidence once again that they aren't another launch on the belt. It's just as depressing to be ignored on the internet as it is in person. Over time, you build loyalty that way, buzz, and people will be more likely to get other tweetheads to follow you as well.
4. Follow people that you actually want to know about. This gives you more inspiration to respond. If you go around just following anybody, you'll develop a timeline that make you want to regurgitate, resulting in you avoiding twitter in all. That's not what you made the account for, is it?
5. Lastly, avoid mundane tweets like I'm making a sandwich. No one wants to hear about that. If you're going to chronicle your life, make it interesting, or informative. When @GeicoTheQue (that's me) tweets about making a sandwich he goes into the detail. I'll tell you why I feel guilty about choosing white over wheat because I know it's not as healthy, but tastes so good anyways. Wit and charisma goes a long way. Be like Obama. He's the smoothest Mr. Prez I know.

Here's a video with some tips:

Top 10 Twitter Tips to Gain Real Followers by ReloadingBusiness

If you have any questions or want more tips, leave a comment and I'll be sure to get back at you. Who knows? I might even follow you back. Just make sure you say something really cool.

3 Reasons Not To Fear The New Facebook Timeline

The time has come to move onto the next phase of facebook life. They are rolling out a new type of profile that makes it really easy to see all the activity over you lifetime on "The Book." This may be kind of frightening for us alumni that want to cover up those college days, married couples that are working hard to cover up those ex's, and folks that are just doing too much. Don't fret. I'm giving you 5 reasons to give this diary a chance.

1. They are letting you preview how your timeline looks when other people visit your page. You get a 3rd Person view of action action before the manure hits the oscillator. You have a week to make some changes.
2. This is a time to reflect. the new year is hear and it's still a time when people are setting modes for the rest of 2012. Those of you who have been posting you entire lives online have a great opportunity to view the things you've done within the time you've spent on this earth. Take advantage and learn from your mistakes.
3. You can pick what's highlighted. We respond highly to visual stimulation so utilize that human effect to highlight graduating from school, picking up that new e-book, or landing that job. You can get rid of that picture of you at the frat party, when your relationship status was complicated, or those embarrassing moments when you weren't able to pull off that Salt-N-Pepa look.

At the end of the day, it's only Facebook. Wish I could say that didn't matter, but truth is recruiters, admission workers, and other influential people are consistently scanning profiles of their prospects for compromising traits and incidents that would take away from their goals and futures. Maybe, if we'd be more considerate of others, things wouldn't be so bad when others find our faults. Food for thought. I want to hear you concerns about the new facebook timeline. One of today's trending topics is #iMissYouWhen on twitter. Try working that into your tweets when thinking about the old facebook and mention @GeicoTheQue. I'll retweet some good ones.

3 reasons to curl up with an E-Book reader on this rainy monday

A report from the Pew Internet & America Life Project reveals that e-book reader sells have doubled in a month. People all around are purchasing Nooks, Kindle Fires, and iPad 2's. I'll give you 3 reasons why you should be

1. They're easy to carry around. It gets hard juggling life and books. With these e-readers, you'll be carrying you're entire library with you. The average weight is about 10 ounces. The storage is really easy because of their compact designs making room for that extra outfit in your luggage on a trip across the nation.
2. They'll save you money. E-books usually cost you less than their real world counter-parts. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo can cost you up to around 20 bucks on Amazon while the kindle fire's makes it available for nearly half the price. Not mention those real books would have put your baggage over the weight limit.
3. Special features that physical books just can't compete with. If you haven't been following the trends of the great Bugs Bunny, you haven't been eating enough carrots to get that super vision. Readers allow you compensate for that with zoom functions and back lighting with ease. If you're driving your children to soccer practice, they often have read out loud feature that let you enjoy a good read hands free as well.

You've got a wide selection to pick from. Go save some money, energy, and time with an e-book. Remember, they're not just for books either. Many have assorted apps to enjoy as well when you want to take a break from reading. I'd suggest you grabbing a kindle fire for starters. It runs an altered version of android which means flexibility. Your local Radioshack can put it in your hands for around $200. My mom loves hers. Who already has an e-reader? Let us know how you like yours or even what you don't in a comment below.

SOPA is DEAD Or At Least In A Deep Coma

We can rest easy knowing that the vote for the Stop Online Piracy Act has been postponed. We don't have to worry about being put in jail over a tweet, blog, or other type of meme. They have to iron out more details considering that the enforcing of the bills as they stand would put vital websites to America in overly compromising positions.

Chairman Lamar Smith on the senate released a statement saying:

"I have heard from the critics and I take seriously their concerns regarding proposed legislation to address the problem of online piracy."

It seems that all those site blackouts like Wikipedia, and the digital protesting on twitter, facebook, and the like really worked. This is yet another example of social media being an excellent vehicle for voicing the word of the people. If you want to know how this PIPA/SOPA ordeal has played out Mashable has detailed timeline in this article. I'm going to beef up to a whopping two blog posts per day starting next week. How do you plan to exercise your freedom? Leave a comment with your answer.

iBooks Author debuts at the Apple Education Event

Creating e-books with ease

There are plenty of books out there like The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, or The Help that was actually turned into a movie. It inspires many people to get over those jitterbugs and actually start writing. Apple has just released an app for the iPad that makes it easier to compose and publish that great work of literature in eBook format.

iBooks Author is what it's called and e-books are what it's producing. There are so many advantages this software presents. Adding material is easy as dragging and dropping in to the window. You can add widgets to make things more interactive. Can you imagine reading The Purpose Driven Life and being able to read several different translations of a passage referred to without even leaving the page? That's possible with this software. Writer's block is a common disease so we know it's just as easy to get held up with design. Luckily, templates are made available to give you a jump-start on  what you want your e-book to look like.

They've really hit the nail on the head with ease of use. You can spark off things immediately with an instructional video on your cover page. If you're more techo-savvy, iBook Author lets you embed Jave and HTML widgets for more complex and personal content. Once you're finished, the software offer several ways to share your work with the world including submitting it to the iBookstore and iTunes U. If you have an iPad try out the software, submit your works, and let me know what it was like making your own e-books using these tools. I'd love to see what you come up with.

Teachers Giving Apple To Students

Are your kids tired of lugging around those back breaking textbooks? Is paperback not that environmental move that you were attempting? Are those same old course materials getting boring? Well, Apple intends on taking it to the textbook industry. They are releasing software to make it easier for instructors to create e-books and other educational materials to be used on iPads. They'll publicly announce it tomorrow at an event in New York with further details.

iPad Textbook

Think of it as Garageband for e-books purposes. Eddy Cue, Apple Internet Software Chief, say the tools will be aimed at grades K-12. Apples recognizes that the textbook industry is a $10 Billion market that can be decreased through their electronic alternative. Publishers will be able to embed relevant content like videos into their books.

How will it be received? I believe its a very interesting venture and that it will gain a great deal of popularity. Apple has been integrating their hardware in lots of dynamic ways to enhance industry-specific activity. I have no doubt that students will be enthusiastic about using an iPad for curricular activities. I've heard about incompatibility issues with the latest ePub format, but I doubt they'll go long without fixing it. What might have to be considered is the sensitivity of the hardware. Kids can be very clumsy and iPads can get expensive being replaced in an economy like today's where money is strapped for education.Watch the headlines tomorrow for more details on this campaign. Comment on what you think about Apple teaching our children

#TeachUTuesday What SOPA & PIPA means to you

Have you heard about the SOPA and PIPA? SOPA stands for Stop Online Piracy Act and PIPA stands for Protect Intellectual Property Act two acts from the House of Representative and Senate, respectively, that will change the way we communicate on the internet. We all update our statuses on twitter, or make purchases for the  latest deals on Groupon, or search Wikipedia when we want to help our children study for their history quiz coming up. Daily, activities like these will  be under scrutiny if these acts are passed.

Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube are all host websites of User-Content. Under the SOPA and PIPA acts, your favorite social media site could be shut down for a small portion's transgressions. They will be like police and watch-dogs constantly screening your material for legibility.

It actually goes far as criminalizing a broad and vague range of activity. Something as easy as posting a copyrighted picture on a website without the expressed authorization of the original creator can land you in a courtroom. It could be a real Salem which hunt out there. That's why you hear plans for websites like Wikipedia to shutdown their website this Wednesday January 18, 2012 as a means of protesting. Google will be supporting the effort with a link on the matter on the website front page. Here's an article that may make it even more real for you. Are you for or against the act? Leave a comment and let us know how you feel about it. Follow @GeicoTheQue for live updates and more.

3 Gadgets 4rm #CES That Make You 4get it's #FridayThe13th

CES is a magnet for all types of off the wall gadgets. Had you been there you may have had the chance to play with a robotic ball controlled by bluetooth, weigh your baby on a scale with an app to process that RugRat, or sing in the the shower with back up from a waterproof bluetooth speaker. Now, that I think about I'd like to do all those things. I'd probably weigh a turkey or Cornish Hen or something instead. All that I want to tell you about a couple pieces of electronics that are a bit more practical, or at least relevant to you.

1st off is the BodyMedia Link Armband. The year is still fresh and we know you are fighting your best to keep that New Years Resolution to lose 15 pounds going strong. This armband is something you'll love. Not only does it track the steps you've taken, the distance you've traveled, and the time you've spent with that physical activity; but it also tracks the calories you've burnt via a series of skin sensors monitoring temperature, perspiration, and such to give you the most accurate count. Even when you are sleep, it works keeping track of how efficient your rest is. You'll be able manage the processed information with software on your computer and smartphone for your convenience. They plan to release a less expensive disposable patch that you can wear for a week as well so stay on the lookout.

Next we have the Droid RAZR MAXX which is the relaunch of the original Verizon Motorola phone . I know we can get a little clumsy and so does Motorola. That's they've suited the phone with Kevlar mesh. Don't try to to shoot your phone or anything. Just know that you've got extra protection. The aluminum chassis and gorrilla glass contribute as well. Let get real. No one is in a hurry to pay that insurance deductible. The phone has retained most of the high-end technical specs as the original such as the 1.2GHZ dual processor (fast), the 8MP rear-facing camera and front-facing camera with HD (pretty), and 4.3" AMOLED screen (roomy). The amount of internal memory had double to 32GB and if that isn't enough it's still retained the microSD card slot. Drum roll, please. The ace kicker about this phone is it's whopping 21 hours of talk time. The biggest shot at android phones is that they don't have satisfactory battery life. It's running on gingerbread (Android 2.3.5) & soon to be updated to ice cream (android 4.0). 

Finally  we have a real game-changer called the Dot by Kogeto. We know how much sharing social media is becoming. Startups like Tout, which is like twitter for videos, are emerging with great velocity. This iPhone attachment lets you capture 360 degree video. Imagine going to a concert and being able to view literally everything going around you down to that jerk that was throwing redhots at you when you weren't looking. There is an associated app called looker that lets you post to facebook, twitter, and kogeto.com right there on the spot. I can't wait to see the interesting thing people do with this technology.

That concludes it for now. Hope I've been a help.