<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways Satechi’s Mini NVMe SSD Enclosure is on sale for $60. It’s a handy travel accessory for moving large files between multiple devices quickly However, getting the most from the device can be an expensive endeavor. more buying choices Data transfer is a large aspect of my day-to-day life. I’m constantly moving […] More
Remote and hybrid working has become the new normal — at least, for now — but productivity can take a hit unless you have the right setup. You might, for example, want to access resources and content on a PC or network when you’re away from the office. Perhaps your employer stipulates that you must use remote desktop software and a VPN if you are working remotely. Or, you simply need a way to provide tech support to a family member who needs help with their laptop but isn’t close by. Also: The best web hosting services: Expert testedRemote access software is often your best bet. This software forges a remote link between machines, allowing users to control other devices, provide administrative support, and access data and files. What is the best remote desktop software right now?Based on our extensive testing, research into customer experiences, and personal use, the best remote desktop software solution on the market today is Splashtop More
ZDNETHate calling a business to ask about pricing? A new Google feature can handle that for you.A feature called “Ask for Me” has popped up under the AI experiments category in Google Labs. Instead of calling a company yourself, you can let Google’s AI do it for you, handling tasks like finding the best price and checking product availability.Experimental phaseWhen you use Ask for Me, a realistic-sounding AI will contact businesses, compile options, and get back to you within 30 minutes. It works much like the Duplex feature from 2019, which would call a restaurant for you to place a reservation.Also: Google’s new AI tool is changing the way teams work and organize researchThe feature is in an experimental phase, Google warns, and isn’t available for all service types. Google didn’t specify exactly which services it is available for, but images only show requests for auto maintenance and nail salon pricing. The description says it’s for “local services like ‘oil change’ or ‘nail salons nearby,'” so it’s possible that’s it for now. More
Kerry Wan/ZDNETI grew up watching The X-Files. In the late 1990s, cell phone reception was nothing like it is today. So back then, I couldn’t help but question how Scully and Mulder could call their boss, Skinner, back in Quantico even when they were investigating the most remote, bizarre locations across the continental US. Also: Just installed iOS 18.3? I’d change these 3 settings first for the best experienceSuspending disbelief aside, maybe FBI agents Scully and Mulder knew real-life tricks to get reception in the middle of nowhere. We can be sure our Special Agents’ little flip phones were not satellite phones. And, that show aired before the advent of the iPhone in 2007. But if you are one of the billions of people using an iPhone or Android today, there are a few factors to consider and tricks you can try if you find yourself struggling to get a signal. More
Flip phones have resurrected in the past few years but in new form. Before phones became “phablets” and ditched physical front buttons for touch-capacitive screens, there was the humble flip phone with a T9 keyboard. Most people liked them because the idea of packing so much gadgetry into a compact unit invoked playfulness and wonder in equal parts. The new variants of flip phones keep the playfulness intact despite a missing T9 keyboard. Also: We tested the best foldables on the market: Samsung, Google, OnePlus, & moreWith the introduction of foldable, brands have forayed into two form factors. First, book-style foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and OnePlus Open, which unfold to offer a tablet-like experience. Second, flip phones like the Motorola Razr and Galaxy Z Flip 6, which flip open into full-fledged phones. While one is for productivity, the other makes the modern smartphone more pocketable than ever. If you are looking for phones with the processing power to compete with the best slab phones on the market but want a more compact design, you should look at flip phones. The best flip phones offer a good cover screen experience, versatile camera setup, intuitive software perks and a battery backup that can get you through the day. What is the best flip phone right now?Samsung and Motorola are the top two brands making flip phones right now. Of all the flip phones I’ve tested and reviewed, the Motorola Razr Plus (2024) More
The top mainstream smartphones, such as the iPhone, Pixel, and Galaxy, offer best-in-class displays, cameras, and performance. While phones now include extra protection with an IP69 rating alongside IP68-rated protection, they might not be the best bet for outdoor activities. If you drop one of these phones while hiking or camping, it can break despite the added protection of cases. That’s where rugged phones come in.The best rugged phones are meant to withstand rough elements. They are tested for military-standard durability, so you don’t have to worry about dropping them during outdoor activities. These phones ensure a better chance of screen survival when dropped. Moreover, many rugged phones come with extra battery capacity or the ability to swap out batteries so that you can continue working and playing instead of charging on the go. Also: The best satellite phones you can buyMost rugged phones are more affordable than flagship phones because you are not getting high-end cameras. Instead, they focus on providing a reliable phone for all environments without extra bells and whistles. Given their price and utility, these phones are perfect for field work or outdoor adventures and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. What is the best rugged phone right now?The Doogee S100 Pro More
<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Hatch Restore 3 retails for $170 and comes in three neutral colors. It has a new design with bigger buttons and an upgraded app with more bedtime routines. The device is rather large, and you’ll have to pay for a monthly subscription to utilize the app’s whole experience. –> As […] More
ZDNETIf your computer desktop looks a little chaotic and you’re noticing some performance slowdown, it might be time to do a cleanup. The best way to keep things running smoothly is to ensure you’re running the most updated version of Windows (you’d be surprised how many folks’ devices are several updates behind). But if you’re up-to-date, there are other things you can do to optimize.Also: How to clear the cache on your TV (and why you shouldn’t wait to do it)Windows has a few helpful utilities that can free up some space (and they’re already on your PC). These utilities aren’t intended for large-scale repairs but can help make things run faster by cutting excess weight.Regular computer usage results in stored cache files that can become corrupted and outdated, leading to operational quirks and slower boot times. Clearing this cache and other temporary files can improve performance and keep things running optimally. Here’s how. More
