Apple : Best medical alert systems of 2019 |
- Best medical alert systems of 2019
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| Best medical alert systems of 2019 Posted: 22 Jun 2019 12:39 PM PDT From 2012 to 2050, the number of US citizens over 65 years of age will almost double from just over 43 million to nearly 84 million according to the United States Census Bureau. While the baby boomers can expect an increased life expectancy for enjoying retirement, most will also want to preserve their independence for as long as possible, not least by remaining in the family home. Even so, the National Council on Aging reports that: "Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans." However, medical alert systems can help safeguard and protect the health and security of older citizens through the miracle of modern digital technology. Providing a virtual electronic safety net, help can be just a button push away. Medical alert systems can come in all different shapes and sizes to suit personal preferences, too. There are options such as wall-mounted units with wireless monitoring, pendants to wear, even health monitors that can be used with nothing more intrusive than a smartwatch. Retirement no longer has to be about nursing homes and hospital care – now older citizens can enjoy freedom and independence with the latest in medical alert system technology, knowing that in the event of an emergency, help is already on its way.
Image Credit: Medical Guardian Medical Guardian offers a comprehensive suite of services that form an “always-on-call, personal emergency response system.” This starts with personalization options, and the system can be configured for cord cutters without a landline, and for coverage of outdoor areas via a simple setup process. The account gets accessed via the MyGuardian Customer Care portal for payment options and additional resources. Monitoring is provided via multiple 100% US-based monitoring centers. As falls frequently occur in bathrooms, it is reassuring to know that Medical Guardian includes waterproof communication options. For those times that a fall victim may have gone unresponsive, often due to another medical condition (for example stroke, seizure or cardiac arrhythmia) being the cause of the fall, as opposed to slipping on a rug, there is an integrated Automatic Fall Alert to assist. Also, there are options to cover additional family members so they can benefit from the system, and get assistance as well if needed. The website features an online risk assessment score to gauge the risk of a fall. The company offers a range of products, including options to use at home, and others for on the move. At the low end is the Classic Guardian system, that features a base station that connects to a landline, with a watch-style device that maintains a connection to the base station across over 1300 square feet. Another option is Mobile Guardian, which is a wearable medical alert watch, which communicates over AT&T’s 3G network, and includes GPS location data so you can be found in an emergency. The watch is also good for everyday use, and additional features include weather forecasts, and SMS communications. Image Credit: Great Call Looking for a medical alert service for an active senior on the go, without a bulky base station? Then Lively Mobile Plus from Great Call has you covered. The heart of this service is the pendant, suitable to wear on the neck or clip to a pocket, which features GPS technology to determine location, a fall detector that automatically calls for help in a fall event, and is waterproof. Backing up the service are certified agents who are “trained in emergency procedures,” and have the fastest agent response time as determined by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute. The pendant costs $37.49, plus an activation fee for the hardware. There is also a monthly fee that starts at $19.99 monthly for the Basic Plan, and goes up to $34.99 per month for the Ultimate Plan that includes device replacement and fall detection. Image Credit: ADT Health ADT is a household name for home security equipment, but also offers a variety of medical alert systems to suit a variety of needs via its ADT Health brand. At the bottom end is the basic device that connects to a landline. It features a simple base station, and a waterproof button on a watch band to press for help, but it only has a 300 foot range. There is no activation charge, and a monthly $29.99 fee for the service. The firm’s mid-range plan is Medical Alert Plus, which has an extended in-home range that grants independence to those who love to garden or relax in the yard. It requires no landline, and has a fall detection option. There is also a mobile medical alert system called ‘On-The-Go.’ This one is a portable device, without a base station, with optional fall detection, and GPS to track the location. There is a wireless connection with two-way talk. The monthly fee is $39.99 for the service. Image Credit: LifeStation LifeStation Medical Alert is a budget-friendly basic medical alert system. It has a base station that connects to a landline, and a distinguishing feature is that an additional user with a second device can be added for $3.99 per month. LifeStation Medical Alert also comes with a wearable pendant or wristband with built-in GPS, as well as a fall detection sensor. The base station has an ordinary range of 500 feet, a waterproof help button, and an automated weekly tester. Also, bathroom and hallway buttons can be added for additional access for $2.49 per month. The cost of the basic service, before the extras, is $25.95 per month, if paid annually. Image Credit: One Call Alert One Call Alert offers a family of products to suit different needs and price points. The starter system is landline based, and uses a simple push button on a watch band to a base station, and starts at $24.95 per month. The firm also offers a higher tier home device, that does not need a landline, but rather uses a base station with a cellular connection and has a sleeker button device, with a monthly service fee of $34.95 a month. The top offering, the ResCube Pro Mobile, which is a completely mobile solution that dispenses with the base station, can be had for $39.92 per month. All plans feature US-based trained professionals, and there is an option to have a previously created action plan to notify first responders, family and friends, should an incident occur. One Call Alert also has a A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Image credit: MobileHelp MobileHelp develops some of the most popular medical alert systems, of their MobileHelp Duo offering is a good mid-range service compared to the rest of the market. The system comes with a base station, which is made by MobileHelp themselves rather than a third party, and this comes with a mobile help button to call for assistance if needed. The base station runs on a celullar network rather than a landline, which offers the advantage of still being on even in the event of a power failure. There's also a suite of online tools provided, which can be used to register and monitor both the service and its use. It can also include medication reminders as well as track user activity when required. The suite is mobile friendly, so can be access on a computer or smartphone. There are no upfront fees with any MobileHelp service, so all hardware is included in the prices and there are no activation fees. The monthly price comes in at over $40 a month, which is higher than average, but there are discounts for paying annually that make the service much more competitive. Among the service features of note is that the speakerphone is especially clear, more so than some rival service providers. And while MobileHelp openly state that they don't provide their own call centers, they do use Rapid Response, which is an award-winning service for customer care. Other medical alert systems to considerBay Alarm Medical has been providing medical alert systems for over 70 years, and offers multiple monitoring and tracking options for the home, outside, and even one specifically for use in an automobile. Its push button technology can allow you to alert family, friends, or 911 services directly, with prices starting from $19.95. LifeFone works with its own cellular phone network to offer a mobile emergency pendant or wristband with a built-in help button. LifeFone has in-home monitoring and mobile solutions, and is recognized as a leading service by hospitals, caregivers, and consumer groups. Prices start from $24.95 per month. While GetSafe offers traditional medical alert systems similar to other providers, not least a home hub and neck pendant, it differs in also offering voice-activated consoles as a main product. This means setting up alert boxes around the home, but the senior doesn't have to wear or press anything – they can literally just call for help when needed, and describe what sort of help they require. Both landline and cellular options are available. Pricing for the service is $24.95 monthly. QMedic focuses on a mobile wearable bracelet or pendant, which not only has an alert/help button, but also allows two-way communication so that you can do more than just ask for help – you can also clearly state what help you need and whether you require medical assistance. As well as being waterproof it is also proactive and can flag unusual user behavior patterns. QMedic was awarded ‘Best Medical Alert System for Compliance and Activity Monitoring 2019’ by Caring.com. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| iOS 13: release date, beta and feature list Posted: 22 Jun 2019 12:39 PM PDT The iOS 13 public beta release date and time could be announced in a few days, as Apple laid out a July window in which the wider beta testing would begin. That gives us time to pour over the iOS 13 features found in the developer beta right now – the ones Apple announced on stage at its WWDC 2019 keynote on June 3. You can get iOS 13 beta right now, but it isn't meant for everyone – yet. Paying Apple developers are the intended audience; Apple strongly advises normal users wait. It includes Dark Mode, the long-awaited UI tweak to invert those bright white-screen backgrounds is here, and so is the new QuickPath swipe keyboard and iPadOS. In the meantime, we'll explain (and show) what it's all about, including Dark Mode, a long-awaited UI tweak allowing you invert those bright white-screen backgrounds. There are so many iOS 13 features announced, and we'll explain them all. But we'll start with the iOS 13 release date schedule and all-important compatibility list first. iOS 13 release date schedule
The iOS 13 public beta release date is going to be announced very soon. Apple said it would launch in July, though last year's iOS beta came on June 25, so we're eager to see how the timing shakes out in 2019. We've mapped out an iOS 13 beta timeline, from the beta 1 and beta 2 that are out now to the final version of the software. It all begins with a first look at the update in the form of the developer beta. We had June 3 date pinned down as the release date months ago, long before we got our WWDC invite. 1. iOS 13 developer beta: The iOS 13 beta 2 is available today but restricted to paid Apple developers. Good news: unlike iOS 13 beta 1, this new version can be installed over the air (OTA), whereas beta 1 required Xcode or macOS 10.15 to be installed first. It's a bit easier to install, but you should probably wait for the public beta, which is always more stable, or upgrade to the dev beta on a non-primary device. 2. iOS 13 public beta: This is Apple's way of testing features on a larger scale. When is the iOS 13 public beta release date? Apple said July, although last year the iOS public beta launched on June 25. It'll be worth the wait – it's typically a more refined version of the iOS developer beta, although it can still be rough, and never includes all of the features implemented in the final version of the software. 3. iOS 13 golden master: This will be the final version of the iOS 13 software, released one week before the final iOS release, meant for developers and public beta testers. At this point it's very stable, and gives app makers seven days to adapt to the final software. 4. The official iOS 13 release date: We'll get the new iOS 13 software in its final, stable form about one week after the next iPhone launch event, at which we expect to see what we're calling (for now) the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Max and iPhone 11 XR. The date? Probably mid-September (last year it was September 17). iOS 13 compatibility list
iOS 13 compatibility requires an iPhone or iPad from the last four years (depending on the device category). That means phones like the iPhone 6 won't be getting iOS 13 – if you've got one of those devices you'll be stuck with iOS 12 forever. iOS 13 sheds several old devices (Image credit: Apple) You'll need an iPhone 6S or later, the iPad Air 2 or later, and the new iPad mini 4 or later, or the iPod touch 7th generation. No surprise, the new iPod Touch 7th gen is the only devices of its class that gets iOS 13 support. The iPhone SE fits into an odd category, as it has iPhone 6 era specs, but came out after the iPhone 6S. Don't worry, everyone's favorite little iPhone will get iOS 13. iOS 13 Dark Mode
Dark Mode in iOS 13 is going to be system-wide, meaning it'll change the hues from bright white and light grey to black and dark gray on all supported apps. It's a nice feature when you're using your iPhone at night and want to avoid bright white hues shining in your face. It may also save battery life on the OLED-equipped iPhones, from the iPhone X onward. Apple didn't talk about this at all, but we know that OLED displays essentially 'turn off' pixels when rendering blacks. Turning on iOS 13 Dark Mode can be done in Control Center inside the Display slider (right next to the Night Shift and True Tone toggle), according to Apple, or you can set it automatically to turn on at night through a schedule or custom time. The yellow-tinting Night Shift mode finally gets a bright-light dimming companion, and a lot of people couldn't be happier. iOS 13 on iPad is iPadOS, and it's a big changeSome of the biggest changes we expected for iOS 13 on the iPad are actually coming in an update called iPadOS. Apple is signaling that the iPad needs its own platform. That means big improvements to your iPad workflow, starting with the home screen redesign. Pinned Widgets, as we predicted in our iOS 13 rumors roundup, lets you add widgets from the Today View screen (that left-mode screen on your iPhone and iPad). So far, it's iPad-exclusive, and not coming to iOS13 for the iPhone. Slide Over lets you have multiple apps open and cycle through them like rolodex. You can also fan to preview them all at once with a swipe gesture, kind of like the recents menu on many phones and tablets. It's multi-tasking made easier. Split View has been enhanced to let you open one app on both sides of the screen (it wasn't possible before), and Apple demoed this by showing Notes side-by-side with Notes. You can also pair an app with more than one app – so now Safari can be paired with Pages in one space and Safari can be paired with Mail in another. App Expose is new to the iPad software, letting you see all of the space you have open. There's an App Expose icon on the Dock, requiring only a single press to get into the convenient overview mode. New copy, paste and undo gestures are coming to iPadOS. Three fingers scrunched down was shown to copy text, three fingers expanding (in the opposite direction) dropped the text on the page, and sliding three fingers across the screen undid the last action. We'll have to see how this performs when the software lands. Apple's keyboard can float around the screen in a smaller form, and it's debuting a swiping gesture keyboard, which it calls QuickPath Typing. There are also more keyboard shortcuts (a lack of shortcuts was a complaint we had about previous iOS versions). There are actually too many iPadOS changes to detail here in the iOS 13 explainer, so we've spun the full rundown off into a separate iPadOS release date, news and features article. iOS 13 features a QuickPath keyboardWith iOS 13, Apple's default QuickType keyboard will be incorporating swipe-to-type, a popular way of sliding across the keyboard to form words. We've used this in prior iOS keyboard extensions like Google's Gboard and SwiftKey. Here's QuickPath in action (Image credit: Apple) You can use the QuickType and QuickPath methods of typing interchangeably, and so far supported languages include English, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Portuguese is now included. iOS 13 debuts new 'Find My' appApple is combining Find My Friends and Find My iPhone in iOS 13, and the union lets you locate your friends and missing gadgets with a faster, easier-to-use interface. Find My iPhone and Find My Friends come together in one app (Image credit: Apple) What's really neat is that it'll use a crowd-sourced encrypted Bluetooth signal to help you track down devices that aren't connected to Wi-Fi or cellular. That's mostly a big help for Macs, but it could also help with an iPhone in rare cases, too. Best of all, while Find My Friends didn't always work for us, Apple may be making a bigger push to get location tracking right with this new iOS 13 app now in the limelight. iOS 13 hints at Apple Tag productThe theory that Apple is taking on the Tile tracker is backed up in the iOS 13 beta, according to a new leak regarding what's been dubbed the 'Apple Tag'. Could Apple be working on something similar to this Tile Sport? (Image credit: Tile) While the redesigned Find My app is supposed to locate your Apple devices and also your iPhone-carry friends, the Apple Tag is allegedly designed for everything else. Think: keys, bag, water bottle, or anything else a Bluetooth tracker could attach to. The Apple Tag wasn't a part of the iOS 13 reveal during WWDC 2019, but it could be an announced alongside the iPhone 11 in September. After all, it is mobile hardware. iOS 13 makes your old iPhone faster, last longerMore people are holding onto their iPhones for longer, and that's something Apple seems to recognize – and the company is speeding up iOS 13 to accommodate them. The most important iOS 13 stats: app launch speed is up to twice as fast according to Apple, and Face ID unlocking will be 30% faster than before. Apple also found a way to make app downloads smaller, up to 60% on average; iOS 12 gave us a faster update, and iOS 13 looks to build upon that. Battery life is also something Apple is tackling this year. Its aim is to slow the rate of battery aging by reducing the time your iPhone spends fully charged. iOS 13 is supposed to learn from your daily charging routine so it can wait to finish charging past 80% until you need to use it. Reminders gets a big overhaulOf all the built-in apps, Reminders is getting the biggest revamp in iOS 13. It appears to be better organized, and includes shortcuts that make it easier to add reminders. Reminders appears to have gotten the freshest reimagining among iOS 13 apps (Image credit: Apple) Big, color-coded buttons for Today, Scheduled, All and Flagged categories offer you a better oversight of your pressing tasks, while the keyboard when you're in this app has a top-line Quick Toolbar that acts as a shortcut to easily add times, dates, locations, flags, photos and scanned documents. Making plans in Messages? Siri will step in to suggest reminders that can be created, like a personal assistant who chimes in at all the right times. Camera and Portrait Mode changesThe iOS 13 is going to offer important changes to camera features, starting with enabling you to change the intensity of light in Portrait Mode, which is something we've wanted for a while. Portrait mode is also getting a new monochromatic effect called High‑Key Mono. The new Photos tab in the iOS 13 Photos app – Apple sees it as becoming your photo diary (Image credit: Apple) The Photos gallery is becoming what Apple called "a diary of your life", with a new tab designed to document your best photos by day, month and year. You'll also have more pinch controls to zoom in and out of the Photos gallery. Photo editing is refined with iOS 13, adding adjustment controls and filters, while the video editing portion mirrors this almost entirely: nearly every photo tool and effect – including filters, rotating and cropping – will make it over to video. If you're not good at tinkering with video, there'll even be an 'Auto' adjustment button. New Siri voice sounds more naturalThere's a new Siri voice debuting with iOS 13, and it sounds more natural than before – we've heard a sample and the tone is the same, but it sounds less robotic. It uses advanced neural text‑to‑speech technology, according to Apple, and you'll particularly notice this when Siri says longer phrases, like reading the Apple News aloud or answering knowledge questions. The timing is good, because Siri can also do a lot more talking if you wear AirPods – Siri can read incoming messages and pipe them through the buds, which is convenient. One more new Siri perk: your voice assistant on HomePod will understand the voices of the various family members in your home. This should mean, for example, that asking "What's on my Calendar?" won't bring up someone else's irrelevant information. Memoji gets makeup, Messages gets info sharingApple is putting more of 'Me' in Memoji, allowing one trillion configurations: new hairstyles, headwear, makeup, and piercings to name a few categories. Examples on the WWDC stage showed that these personalized Animoji masks allow for such granular accessory detail as eyeshadow, braces and even AirPods. Memoji gets better in year two (Image credit: Apple) Memoji Stickers are something entirely new – iOS 13 will bring more iPhone and iPad users into the Memoji fold, TrueDepth camera or not. You can customize a Memoji and iOS 13 will automatically create a fun-looking sticker pack that lives in a sub-menu on the keyboard, which you can use in Messages, Mail, and third‑party apps. You'll be able to share your personalized Memoji with contacts through iMessages, but only when you grant them access. The same applies to sharing your name and photo with contacts, so you can chose how people see your name, for example. According to Apple, you can decide whether you want your profile shared with everyone, with only your contacts, or just once. New HomePod featuresYou might not know this, but the HomePod is part of the iOS family, and it's getting updates too. First, you'll be able to transfer songs from your iPhone by simply holding your phone closer to the HomePod speaker. Previously, you had to tell Siri to do this, but now this hand-off feature is a bit easier, and you don't have to talk to do it. The HomePod will also introduce Live Radio – you can ask Siri to play 100,000 stations from all around the world. And HomePod will allow you to recognize who in your family is talking, and personalize the response – great with Apple Music, where selections will be based on your taste and history. It goes beyond Music, Messages, Notes, Reminders, and more. Sign-in with AppleApple wants app developers and sites to use its sign-in feature, and there are some perks for user privacy, too (Image credit: Apple) Apple is taking on Facebook Connect, Google and other platforms that allow you to conveniently sign in to third-party accounts. Sign-in with Apple is poised to protect your privacy more than Facebook and Google do. What's neat is that if you don't want to fork over your email to an app developer or website, Apple will create a unique random email for you, and the email will be unique to that site or app. Maps get revampediOS 13 Maps looks a lot better, even if everyone likes to hate on it. Will it ever be better than Google Maps? No, probably not. But for people who want Apple's pre-loaded maps app on iOS 13, it'll be much better. 360-degree city tours are coming to Apple Maps (Image credit: Apple) There's way more detail here by way of Apple rebuilding maps from the ground up. There's more realistic detail for roads, beaches, parks, and buildings, and you can now explore cities with a 3D 360-degree experience. Favorites were a part of Maps before, but iOS 13 makes these saved locations easier to navigate to with one tap – they appear at the very top of a search menu. Sometimes Google Maps on iOS doesn't get this right (but does better on Android). That's one reason to keep Apple Maps installed, even if you're a Google Maps person. Text formatting in MailMail is getting some changes when it comes to writing out properly formatted email. You'll have more control over font style, size, color, alignment, indenting and outdenting text, and numbered and bulleted lists. What we're really hoping to see in iOS 13 is the ability to insert a hyperlink into some text in an email. On both iOS and Android devices, that's just not possible in their default mail clients (that we've seen) – you have to paste long URLs, and that's not a computer, no matter what you call your operating system. Connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth from Control CenterThis is huge – and we've been asking for it for several years. You'll soon be able to select Wi‑Fi networks and Bluetooth accessories right from Control Center. Android has had this for years, and it was always convenient to connect to new Wi-Fi networks or Bluetooth earbuds without having to navigate away from your current app and dive into five Settings submenus. Apple is finally coming around in iOS 13. Xbox One and PS4 game controller supportIf you're going to play games on your phone, you might as well do it with one of the two best controllers available (and maybe something you already own). Enter PS4 and Xbox One game controller support for iOS 13. Apple didn't say if all games will support this or if it'll be limited to Apple Arcade, but whatever the case may be, we're happy to be able to put our PS4 controller to use everywhere we roam. Silence Unknown CallsNuisance SPAM calls drive us crazy every day, and iOS 13 wants to fix the issue with the help of Siri, which scans your Contacts, Mail and Messages to see if you've previously been in contact with the caller. Silence Unknown Calls sounds fairly smart, if you're not expecting business numbers cold-calling you for work. Those that do call you and aren't on your personal 'VIP list' will go straight to voicemail. More iOS 13 features to come with the public betaWe're waiting until the iOS 13 public in July to test out the software, but there's so much more to this update that we haven't yet explained – there's just that much to it. We'll continue to update the iOS 13 news here, with our guide to what you need to know about its features and how it'll change your iPhone. There might be a separate iPadOS now, but iOS 13 is still mighty important to millions of people. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best home security systems of 2019 Posted: 22 Jun 2019 07:43 AM PDT The one crime statistic that is falling across the US year-on-year is burglary, and that's because homeowners are turning to home-based security systems that can help prevent crime. It's not just about trying to deter opportunists, but also making sure that even determined burglars will have difficulty forcing their way into your home without being caught. Yet there's such a wide array of home security options available to the homeowner, from CCTV and security cameras, to monitoring solutions, it can all seem overwhelming. Luckily, there are an increasing number of all-in-one solutions that use the latest technology to bring together different aspects of surveillance, monitoring, and prevention, to help homeowners feel safer. What's even better is that you no longer need a complicated setup of monitoring cameras, as most modern security systems are unobtrusive, easy to install and use, and even stylish. So we have done the legwork for you – we're good like that – to present this list of five of the best home security solutions. We think these products bring together the best in security, safety, and technology, to help give you peace of mind and better protect you, your family, and loved ones, from unwelcome intruders.
Image Credit: Ring The Ring Alarm Security Kit is an all-in-one security solution that's simple to set up, and doesn't require a service subscription to use. The standard Alarm Security Kit is priced at just $199 – cheaper than most competitors – yet comes with a base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector and range extender. You can buy additional components individually to extend your protection, or purchase one of the larger Alarm Security Kit bundles. The Ring Alarm Security Kit uses smart sensors and motion detectors that send mobile alerts when triggered. Everything is managed from the Ring app, which allows you to monitor everything from a single panel on your phone or tablet. It can also be integrated with other security devices from other brands, and you can even operate it using Amazon's Alexa. A backup battery in the kit ensures that even in the event of a power failure, the Ring kit will continue to run for up to 24 hours, using your cellular network to keep connected. As mentioned, there is no need for a subscription plan, though there are contract-free Ring Protect Plans available, for either $3 or $10 a month, which allow you to store more video using the Ring app, as well as access member benefits and discounts on additional security product purchases. These might be useful if you plan to buy other equipment from Ring, such as its video doorbell, sirens, smoke detectors, cameras, and more. Image Credit: Canary Those with more modest homes, such as a rented apartment, may want a simpler plug-and-play solution, such as the Canary All-in-One which retails for $169. One plastic canister provides a 1080p HD camera with night vision, a 90dB siren, an integrated temperature, air quality and humidity monitor, and the device is available in white or black to match a variety of decors. Setup can be completed in a few minutes as the device just needs to be connected to electrical power and the internet for protection to kick-off. While the Canary All-in-One can be used with free access, a membership plan of $9.99 monthly is needed to get the most out of it. Features included are full length videos that are stored for 30 days, unlimited video downloads, and two-way Canary talk. Image Credit: Nest Nest made its name in home technology with its thermostat which debuted in 2011. These days, Nest is part of Google, and the company has expanded into home security with Nest Secure. This is sold as the Nest Secure alarm system, commanding a premium fee of $399, and it includes a base station, two Nest Tags, and two sensors. The Nest Tag is a key fob-style device that can arm or disarm the system when in proximity with the base station – other options for arming include a passcode, Google Assistant, and the Nest App. The sensor is Stick Nest Detect, which is a versatile piece of hardware, as each one can be used to secure a window, door, or even a wall, as it detects motion, with additional sensors available for $49. All of these sensors feed their information through the base station to the Nest App. Nest Secure works over Wi-Fi, but cellular access as a backup is a $5 additional monthly option. The system can also be expanded with options for indoor and outdoor cameras, and compatible Yale electronic locks. While this system is designed to be used for self-monitoring through the Nest App, there is also an option for professional monitoring via Brinks Home Security for $29 monthly, or $19 monthly with a three-year contract (more about that later). Image Credit: Abode Abode offers a security solution that is professional-grade, and yet easy to install for the homeowner. Like its competition, the company offers a starter kit that includes the essentials: a gateway, a mini door/window sensor, a remote key fob, a motion sensor, and a security sticker – that package retails for $299. This does not include a keypad which will run you $79 extra, and is designed for self-monitoring via a smartphone app. There are a wide variety of expansion options available, including indoor add-on sirens, a water leak sensor, and a glass break and vibration sensor, to name just a few of the many offerings. Upgrade to the next plan for $329, and this includes the same starter kit, plus a year of cellular backup on the T-Mobile or AT&T network, and 50% off the add-on keypad. The top plan goes for $379, which includes everything from the lower plans, complete with a year of professional monitoring. Image Credit: SimpliSafe SimpliSafe is a well-known brand in the security space. Unlike some other solutions, the company offers five different options for its starter kit. At the low-end is the aptly named Foundation Kit, which has a base station, keypad, an entry sensor and a motion sensor, all for $229. At the top-end, the Haven Kit, which is priced at $489, includes the same base station and keypad, as well as a key fob, four entry sensors, two motion sensors, a 105dB siren, a panic button, freeze sensor, water sensor, and a smoke detector, which is suitable for a larger home, and obviously protects you from more than just burglary. All kits are backed by a 60-day guarantee – the product can be returned if it does not work out for you – and you have a choice of monitoring plans that include professional monitoring and cellular backup (and neither requires a contract). Image credit: Honeywell Honeywell Smarthome Security is an all-in-one home security device that is intended to serve as the heart of a smarthome experience. The base unit itself can detect motion and sound, and when its smart sensors are triggered it can record in 1080 HD video. Although the unit has nightvision capability, it can also be connected with smart sensors and Z-wave lighting units, to expand its range both inside and outside of your property. It's also compatible with a number of other smarthome devices, which can be configured so that even when you are away, indoor and outdoor lighting can be programmed to simulate someone at home. When an event is triggered, an alert can be sent via text to your phone or other device, along with a video and/or audio clip of it. This allows you to decide whether the event is worth further action. However, the base unit is intended to work as more than a security device, and is also powered by Amazon's Alexa assistant. This allows you to connected with your Amazon account to play music, radio stations, or audiobooks you may have associated with it. Additionally, there's a membership plan available which allows you to expand on the basic 24-hours online storage to a 30 or 60-day storage plan, along with the ability to store more video as well as get further discounts at Honeywell. Other home security systems to considerBrinks works with a wider variety of smart home devices than most other companies, plus it offers both DIY and professional installation options as required. You can buy into Brinks Home Complete, or purchase the Nest Security System (see above) at a discount through Brinks. The service is really focused on providing the monitoring for you, which comes in relatively cheap in industry terms at $29 per month, after hardware costs. The one caveat is to expect to sign a three-year contract, with early exit penalties coming into play 30 days after purchase. ADT is an established security company that offers equipment tied to a subscription-based monitoring service, most of which will require professional installation that the company can provide. Like Brinks, ADT pushes for a three-year initial contract, which afterwards is renewed monthly, but unlike all the other firms listed it's not very transparent about pricing. While other companies are happy to offer a single fee per product/package, ADT pushes on custom sales for custom packages, which means it’s difficult to make a direct price comparison. Frontpoint Security sells itself on ease of use, with a DIY home surveillance and security kit based on free-standing sensors that don't require any wall mounting, drilling, wires, etc. However, the equipment is sold as part of a contract-term package, and pricing will depend on the period committed to upfront. Plans cost between $34.99 to $49.99 a month, with the cost of equipment discounted to $99 if you commit to a three-year contract. Like its rivals we’ve just mentioned, Vivint offers a combined equipment and monitoring service package, with everything run through a cellular network with backup batteries. However, Vivint SmartHome is something of a premium option, requiring a five-year term and monthly prices that can stack up. Even so, some argue that you get what you pay for, and Vivint certainly has a strong reputation in the security industry. Link Interactive costs less than most of the other solutions listed here, plus it boasts an admirable range of security options you can customize yourself. Promoting itself as "the best value in home security", the company runs on a cellular network rather than a landline, and puts less reliance on using a phone app for monitoring. By providing a two-way voice panel, if you can't get to your phone, the firm can contact you or the emergency services directly if they suspect there's a need to. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| iPad 9.7 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5: which is the best budget tablet? Posted: 22 Jun 2019 07:01 AM PDT If you're in the market for a tablet, but don't want to splash out too much, there are two main brands you're going to be looking at – iPads and Samsung Galaxy Tabs. Apple's most basic iPad range, most recently the iPad 9.7 (2018), brings Apple's iOS operating system from iPhones to slates, and is affordable by Apple standards. Samsung Galaxy Tabs come in various models, but the cheapest is the Tab A range, and the last entry in that line was the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 (2018). It runs on an Android operating system, so presents quite a different experience than the iPad 9.7.
So which entry-level tablet should you spend your money on? We'll run through the main differences between the slates to help guide your decision. iPad 9.7 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5: priceThe first major difference between the iPad 9.7 (2018) and Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 (2018) is the price – although both are meant to be entry-level slates aimed at a more affordable price point, one is quite a bit more pricey than the other. Image credit: TechRadar You can pick up the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 for $329 / £249 (roughly AU$470), or $419 / £299 (roughly AU$600) if you want a version that can connect to LTE networks. Whichever model you pick, it only comes in a 32GB size. Still, that's a fairly low price for a tablet, so it definitely falls into the 'affordable' bracket. The Galaxy Tab A 10.5 (2018) isn't available in Australia though, so if you're based there, your choice between tablets is set to be a lot easier. The iPad 9.7 (2018) will set you back a little more, as it starts at $329 / £319 / AU$469 for a 32GB Wi-Fi model, rising to $559 / £539 / AU$799 for a 128GB model with Wi-Fi and LTE. That's generally quite a price rise on the Galaxy Tab A 10.5, especially in the UK, so you'd expect a better tablet as a result. Design and displayIn terms of screens, you're actually getting the same tech in both the iPad 9.7 (2018) and Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 (2018), in the form of IPS LCD touchscreens – that means there shouldn't be a huge difference between the two in terms of max brightness and how good colors look. As the names suggest, the sizes are different though, at 9.7 inches and 10.5 inches respectively, so you're getting a bigger screen on the Galaxy Tab A. Image credit: TechRadar The resolution of the iPad is 1536 x 2048 for a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch, while the Galaxy Tab A is 1200 x 1920 for 216 pixels per inch, so while the latter is bigger, images shown on it won't be as sharp. This might be a concern if you're a cinephile or someone buying a tablet for artwork, but many people might not notice the difference. As one tablet is bigger than the other in screen size, it also has a larger body. The Galaxy Tab A 10.5 has dimensions of 260 x 161.1 x 8mm compared to the iPad's 240 x 169.5 x 7.5mm, so the former is longer and thicker, but the iPad is actually wider. That's in part due to the differing aspect ratios - the Galaxy Tab is 16:10, while the iPad 9.7 is 4:3. You're also getting a heavier device in the Galaxy Tab A 10.5, as the Wi-Fi model weighs 529g, which is 60g more than the 469g Wi-Fi iPad. There's a similar difference for the LTE model, with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 weighing 534g, while the iPad 9.7 weighs 478g. Both tablets have glass fronts, but the iPad 9.7 has an aluminum body, while the Galaxy Tab A 10.5 is plastic – this makes the latter feel a little less premium. In general, though, both conform to the standard tablet design of a rectangular device with thick bezels. Both slates have 3.5mm headphone jacks, which is something many premium tablets are missing, but while the Galaxy Tab A 10.5 has a USB-C port, which lets it charge quite quickly and makes it compatible with many peripherals, the iPad has a Lightning port, which makes for slower charging. Image credit: TechRadar One other important point worth noting is the Galaxy Tab A's rear camera bump, which sticks out quite a way – you can't actually put the tablet flat on a table without it rocking, so you'll have to splash out on a case to compensate for this unless you like to hold your tablet while you use it. Battery life and cameraThere's no clear winner in terms of battery life between the tablets, and that's because they both take roughly as much use before running out of charge. In the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 (2018) you'll find a 7,300mAh battery, and there's an 8,827mAh power pack in the iPad 9.7 (2018) – while that makes it seem like the iPad will last longer, don't forget it has a higher resolution screen, so you might find them lasting around the same amount of time. In fact if anything Samsung's might last longer, as the company claims its slate can last for up to 15 hours of internet use on Wi-Fi, while Apple quotes 10 hours. Charging is a similar story – the Lightning port used on the iPad is rather outdated, compared to the USB-C on the Galaxy Tab A, so you'll find the latter charges quite a bit quicker than the former. Image credit: TechRadar Camera performance isn't something you necessarily look for in a tablet, and as such the gadgets rarely have powerful cameras, but slate snappers can still be useful for a range of functions. Both tablets have an 8MP rear camera, and pictures you take on them will have roughly the same level of quality. However while the iPad 9.7 has a 1.2MP front camera, the Galaxy Tab A's is 5MP, so your video calls and selfies will be of a higher quality on Samsung's slate. Specs and featuresInside the iPad 9.7 (2018) you'll find the Apple A10 Fusion chipset, which was also used in the iPhone 7, and would now rank among the mid-range modern processors. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 comes with the Snapdragon 450 chipset which, again, is a few years old, but it was a mid-range rather than flagship chipset when it was released, so overall it's the lesser of the two. Image credit: TechRadar The Galaxy Tab A does beat the iPad in terms of RAM, with 3GB as opposed to the Apple tablet's 2GB, but in benchmark tests we found the iPad had about 50% more power than its Galaxy rival, likely because of the chipset. When using the interface, the iPad is noticeably quicker and easier to operate, and in general iOS is better optimized for tablets than Android – the performance difference between the slates becomes more obvious the more you use them, and it quickly becomes clear the iPad is much easier to use. The iPad also has a fingerprint scanner in its home button, whereas you'll have to type in your password for the Galaxy Tab A, which makes unlocking the iPad much quicker. Plus, the iPad 9.7 (2018) supports the Apple Pencil, making it a better bet for digital doodlers - though this costs extra. VerdictImage credit: TechRadar When you're using the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5 (2018), it feels a little lacking, both in terms of interface speed and software, and the feel in your hands, and Android just isn't well optimized for tablets yet. However, the Galaxy Tab A is a cheaper device, and provides you with a bigger screen, so if you want your tablet as a big device to watch content on the go, it's a safe bet, especially as it also has potentially better battery life. But if you want to use your tablet for work or playing games, the iPad 9.7's extra processing power and better operating system should lure you in.
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| Apple could be plotting to switch to OLED for its tablet and laptop displays Posted: 22 Jun 2019 06:30 AM PDT Your next iPad Pro or MacBook Pro could come with an OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) display attached, according to new reports from Asia. The primary reason? A shortfall in iPhone sales. According to ETNews, Apple owes a penalty to Samsung for not buying as many iPhone displays as it promised to. Apparently, that penalty might be paid through future orders for tablet and laptop devices. It's not a rumor that's come completely out of the blue – there had already been whispers that Apple would turn to OLED technology for the next round of iPad Pro devices and for the 16-inch MacBook Pro that is reportedly in development.
The most recent MacBook Pro bump was just last month, though it wasn't a major revision. The last iPad Pro launch, meanwhile, was back in October, so we could be due new models before the end of the year. OLED vs LCDOLED and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) take different approaches to screen tech, mostly in the way the screens are lit: pixel by pixel, in the case of OLED, or across the display as a whole, in the case of LCD. Thanks to advances in manufacturing processes down the years, both OLED and LCD can give you very good screens – the differences aren't as pronounced as they used to be. That said, OLED usually offers deeper, richer color and better brightness. LCD screens have one big advantage though: the lower cost of making them. That's why OLED has been largely restricted to smaller devices like phones and tablets so far, though OLED is becoming more popular on hardware such as laptops, and is starting to dominate the TV scene too. The LCD panel is one of the reasons the iPhone XR is cheaper than the other two iPhones Apple launched in 2018. We'll have to wait and see whether Apple decides to go all in with OLED for the 2019 iPhones. Via MacRumors This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The Ford Edge now comes with a free Co-Pilot Posted: 22 Jun 2019 05:17 AM PDT Speed and tech are both coming to the Middle East models for Ford Edge. If you prefer performance, Ford is bringing the new Edge-ST to the region which features a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine with 335 horsepower and 515 No of torque. That is sure to get the mid-sized SUV noticed amongst the enthusiast segment- but that’s not necesarily our typical viewer. For us techies, Ford is adding features previously found on the optional Co-Pilot 360 as standard. Every Ford Edge will now have features such as Post-Collision Braking, Evasive Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centring. These feature make the Ford Edge 2019 model a great car for anyone that values safety. Technologies like Blind Spot Information System, which uses radar to alert drivers of approaching vehicles entering their blind spot by flashing an indicator light, and cross-traffic alert, warning drivers of traffic approaching from the sides when backing out of a parking spot or driveway will help drop the number of accidents on the road. Other Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist features include evasive steer assist, providing drivers with steering support to help avoid collisions with a slow or stopped vehicle if a potential accident can’t be mitigated by braking alone. Lane centring technology, which detects lane markings on the road help keep the vehicle centred while adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability allows drivers to set a desired speed and distance between themselves and the vehicle ahead. Get yourself connectedWireless charging is becoming a standard feature on high-end phones and the Ford edge has a wireless charging pad nestled in the forward media bin. Also present is a 12-speaker B&O PLAY Premium Audio System by HARMAN which is sure to impress when you play your favorite tunes. Also present is Ford's SYNC3 system on an 8-inch touchscreen that supports both CarPlay and Andrpid Auto along with its own AppLink, an enhanced voice-recognition communications and entertainment system. This system gives users access to their favourite media content, daily appointments, and the ability to search for nearby points of interest, all from the road. Inside, a redesigned centre console is accentuated by an all-new rotary gearshift dial that frees up space, allows easier access to the wireless charging pad and enhances the vehicle’s modern, sophisticated feel. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Apple Watch 3 vs Apple Watch 4: which wearable is for you? Posted: 22 Jun 2019 05:00 AM PDT If you’re after an Apple Watch, then chances are you’re considering the Apple Watch 4 or the Apple Watch 3. Both are still sold by Apple and they look superficially similar. However, there are a number of differences between them. So to help you make the right choice we’ve compared Apple’s two latest wearables across all the categories that matter, so you can see what’s the same, what’s different, and how much you’re going to have to pay for each. From design and display to fitness, features, power, battery and beyond, here’s everything you need to know about how the Apple Watch 4 and the Apple Watch 3 compare. Design and displayThe biggest physical difference between the Apple Watch 4 and the Apple Watch 3 is the size of the body, as while the Apple Watch 4 comes in a choice of 40mm or 44mm, the Apple Watch 3 is available in a choice of 38mm or 42mm. So the Apple Watch 4 is bigger, which – coupled with smaller bezels – allows it to have a larger screen. In fact, even the 40mm Apple Watch 4 has a larger display area than the 42mm Apple Watch 3. The Apple Watch 3 is smaller but thicker. Image credit: TechRadar While the Apple Watch 4 is larger though, it’s slightly slimmer, at 10.7mm, compared to 11.4mm for the Apple Watch 3. Other than that, the colors slightly differ, with the Apple Watch 3 being available in black and silver shades, while the Apple Watch 4 is additionally available in a gold one. The Apple Watch 3 also has a red dot on the crown, which the Apple Watch 4 doesn’t, and the Apple Watch 4 is currently available with a wider selection of straps. The Apple Watch 4 has an improved screen. Image credit: TechRadar As for the screen, as well as being a bit larger on the Apple Watch 4 it’s also a bit sharper, coming in at 324 x 394 if you pick the 40mm option or 368 x 448 if you go for the 44mm one, while the Apple Watch 3 is either 272 x 340 or 312 x 390, depending on whether you go for 38mm or 42mm. However, they’re both OLED screens and have the same maximum brightness. Both watches are also waterproof to depths of 50 meters. Fitness and featuresThe biggest difference in fitness features between these two wearables is that the Apple Watch 4 has an ECG (electrocardiogram). This allows it to monitor for atrial fibrillation. It’s not available everywhere, but you can use it in the US and the UK. Want an ECG? You'll want the Apple Watch 4. Image credit: TechRadar The Apple Watch 4 also comes with fall detection, which the Apple Watch 3 doesn’t, and while both models have a heart rate monitor, an accelerometer and a gyroscope, they’ve all been improved for the Apple Watch 4. You’ll also get haptic feedback from the crown on the Apple Watch 4. The other features are mostly similar. Both watches have GPS and come in optional LTE varieties. Both also include a full range of exercise tracking skills, including swim tracking. They’re arguably still not quite as good for fitness as a dedicated sports watch, but they come close. OS, power and batteryBoth the Apple Watch 4 and Apple Watch 3 run watchOS 5, so there’s not much difference here, though as it's a newer device, the Apple Watch 4 is likely to get software updates for longer. You should also get more power from the Apple Watch 4, as it has an Apple S4 chipset, which the company claims is up to twice as fast as the S3 in the Apple Watch 3. Both watches have up to 16GB of storage – though the Wi-Fi model of the Apple Watch 3 has just 8GB. The Apple Watch 3 is less powerful but has similar life. Image credit: TechRadar As for battery, Apple doesn’t reveal the sizes, but has said to expect up to 18 hours of use from each. In practice we found that this is a conservative estimate for both watches, as they both easily last over a day in general. If you’re not a heavy user you could even get two days out of them, but there’s not much difference in life between the two. PriceSo far, the Apple Watch 4 has come out on top as you’d expect, but it’s the price that might make you look to the older model. The Apple Watch 4 starts at $399 / £399 / AU$599 for the smaller model without LTE. The larger version without LTE starts at $429 / £429 / AU$649. Adding LTE to the mix brings starting prices to $499 / £499 / AU$749 and $529 / £529 / AU$799 for the 40mm and 44mm models respectively. The Apple Watch 3 meanwhile starts at $279 / £279 / AU$399 for the 38mm model and $309 / £309 / AU$449 for the 42mm one, rising to $379 / £379 / AU$549 or $409 / £409 / AU$599 respectively if you want it with LTE. The Apple Watch 4 is better, but costs a lot more. Image credit: TechRadar TakeawayWhile these are both great smartwatches there are some clear upgrades on the Apple Watch 4. Mostly notably the ECG feature, the newer chipset and the bigger screen. But it’s also a substantially more expensive device, so if those things – and the numerous smaller upgrades – don’t matter to you, then the Apple Watch 3 is a great cheaper option. But if you do care about those upgrades or simply want the best Apple Watch available, then the Apple Watch 4 is the clear choice.
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| Netflix is testing a desktop pop-out player so you never have to stop watching Posted: 22 Jun 2019 02:30 AM PDT Imagine how much Netflix binge watching you could do if minor inconsiderations like work, emails, or social networks weren't getting in the way. Well, that might well be easier in the future, thanks to a pop-out player Netflix is testing for Windows and macOS. First reported by Engadget, the mini player can be launched with a click from the web player in the browser, and then stays on top of other windows so you can get on with something else while keeping an eye on Netflix. It's not clear just how widely this is being tested: we haven't spotted the new feature ourselves but some users have come across it and posted the news on Twitter. As with any Netflix test, there's no guarantee it'll make it as a permanent feature.
Netflix hasn't officially commented on the new pop-up player, except to confirm to Engadget that a test is underway, so we'll have to wait and see whether it makes the grade. It seems something that a lot of users would find helpful though. Testing... testing... 1-2-3Only yesterday we brought you news of another Netflix test that's underway: adding the option to have your phone vibrate in time to the movies and shows you're watching. Again, we're not sure if that's going to become a permanent feature. But it's clear that Netflix is experimenting with all kinds of ways to help it stand out in an increasingly crowded market. Two of the biggest names in tech and entertainment – Apple and Disney – are launching their own Netflix-style services this year. Netflix is going to need more of its Originals to hit their targets, as well as a steady stream of special features in its software and apps, if it's going to carry on competing once the content libraries become more fragmented. If you're a Netflix subscriber, keep an eye on the web player and the service's apps on other platforms for new features and further tests as they appear. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best phone service for business in 2019 Posted: 22 Jun 2019 02:28 AM PDT Editor's note: Looking for a Phone Service for your business? If you're looking for information to help you choose the one that's right for you, use the questionnaire below to have our partner site, BuyerZone, provide you with information from a variety of vendors for free: The modern office has become increasingly digital, and the office phone service is no different. While once a desk might have been covered with a bank of phones, now employees can use their smartphones or mobile devices on the go, wherever they are at work, using nothing more than an app to join with the corporation's business phone network. Not only does this allow employees to work more productively, but with less of an outlay on hardware costs, it means that cloud-based telecoms systems can be very cost-efficient as well. Set up is usually easy and very simple, as it requires little more than signing up to a digital service and then accessing it once paid for. While there may be some small configuration settings that need to be done, this can take only a few minutes. Once completed you now have a full service phone system that can scale up to as many employees as you need to cover. Different services tiers are commonly offered, with cheaper plans offering essential features, with more expensive plans offering additional features if required. Costs are usually based on a user basis rather than business turn-over, and though many phone service companies offer clear and flat-rate pricing, some providers will seek to provide a personalized quote instead which can often cost more while allowing for extra options not normally available. Here then are the best in phone services for business, with our main choices featured, with additional options to consider following.
Image Credit: Mitel Mitel is one of the giants of Voice over IP (VoIP) telecoms, and its MiCloud offering aims to provide more than just a business phone system, but rather an integrated telecoms solution which can not only account for mobile working but aims to take advantage of the mobile opportunities. It offers a cloud-based telecoms system, which can not only provide, record, and store calls, but also emails, social messaging, as well as any other communications media. This big advantage of this service is that the initial hardware outlay is very much reduced, as you're more dependent on your internet or cellular connections than having a bank of phone lines each with their own business telephone system. It also means updates and upgrades are available as standard, so you shouldn't have to worry about buying telecoms systems that might seem out of date after a couple of years. MiCloud has all the features you'd expect from a standard business phone system, not least audio, video, and conferencing calling, as well as voicemails and call routing. There's also plenty of scope for setting up different features for different people in your teams, and collaboration and collation is at the heart of this system. Pricing is set by Mitel Premium Partners, who can provide a quote to fit according to business needs, but expect to pay around $5 to $15 per user according to service features required, on top of any hardware costs. Image Credit: Vonage Vonage is a well-known player in the residential VoIP market, and its Vonage Business offering focuses on commercial phone service; it has distinct plans that cater to enterprise, as well as the small business market. For the latter, Vonage Business endeavors to use your current internet to have a plug-and-play solution that does not require on-site installation, and offers a 14-day free trial. It is a more premium service with over 40 included phone features, and claims a business grade “99.999% uptime reliability.” The plans are priced depending on the number of users. For example, for 1 to 4 users, the bottom rung Mobile plan starts at $19.99 per user per month, which includes unlimited calling and SMS messages, and apps for both desktop and mobile use. Premium features include a call log, an administrative portal and a virtual receptionist. The next plan up is the Premium plan that costs $29.99 per user per month, and adds video conferencing and file sharing via Amazon Chime, as well as integration with popular Customer Relationship Managers such as Salesforce, Office 365 and Zoho. Image Credit: Ooma Ooma Office is the business version of the popular (almost) free residential service. Here, service plans require a one-time purchase of an Ooma Office base station for $199.99, and then unlimited calling to the US and Canada starts at $19.99 per user per month, which includes bonus features such as virtual fax, a local or toll-free phone number, and a conference extension. More users can be added for $19.99 each. Rounding out the service are over 35 features including 24/7 customer support, music on hold, a virtual receptionist, a mobile app, and a choice of modes for answering calls after hours. Ooma Office is mildly hampered with no lower tier plan for cash-strapped businesses, and there is no lower cost for economies of scale as additional users are added to the plan, as each is charged at full price. Image Credit: 8x8 The 8x8 Virtual Office Desktop is another cloud-driven VoIP plan that allows for more distributed working. It features a lot of the basic features you'd expect in a business phone system, such as support for click-to-call and mobile support, so users aren't tied to a single location. There are also options for web conferencing and video meetings. However, where the 8x8 Virtual Office Desktop really stands out is in the numerous features it boasts. There are multiple plans available, but even the most basic offers extension dialing, auto attendant, ring groups, call recording and internet faxing. There are also more advanced ones such as integration with Zendesk, Netsuite, Salesforce, and a number of other CRM platforms, as well as other online toolkits from the likes of Google and Microsoft. Of course, there is an initial hardware outlay, but a lot of options are offered in terms of desktop phones, cordless phones, and conference calling units from Polycom as standard. However, what you get depends on what you need, and there are three different service levels: Virtual Office, Virtual Office Pro, and Virtual Office 8x8. The latter two offer online meetings, and the highest-end boasts a virtual contact center. While pricing used to be advertised, these days you'll need to request a quote. Image Credit: Phone.com Phone.com endeavors to be an affordable business VoIP service, and with a pay per minute base plan that starts at $9.99 per month (when paid annually), it does best the competition at the low end in terms of cost. The trade-off is that the plan only offers a limited 300 voice minutes monthly with 5,000 SMS, which is only adequate for the most limited business use. On the bright side, even on this bare plan there are premium features included, such as voicemail to email, call blocking and call queuing. It is also indicated that the service is HIPAA compliant to meet the standards of privacy for healthcare-related businesses. Perhaps the more realistic options for most businesses are the Plus Plan for $14.99 monthly (when paid annually) which gives you a still paltry 500 minutes, and 10,000 text messages. Disappointingly, even the top Pro Plan (which is $29.99 monthly on an annual contract) also limits your minutes to 1,000 per month, and 20,000 SMS messages. Other business phone services to considerWhether you're looking for a more traditional PBX phone system or a VoIP phone system, there are a lot of different providers out there. Which one is best for you will depend on your own needs and business size. While we've featured five providers above, there are a huge number of alternatives. Here we'll take a quicker look at another five. Avaya is another of the big names in unified communications, and along with Mitel has established itself as a leading specialist player for business telecommunications. Even so, it caters for the full range of business sizes, from small to enterprise, so don't be put off thinking big names means big costs. Cloud-based VoIP is already an established offering from Avaya, with many different options available to suit your business. RingCentral promotes itself as an all-in-one solution for all business sizes, with a unified communications strategy that means plenty of integration options, from Google to Microsoft, Oracle to Amazon, and Zendesk to Salesforce. Pricing begins at just $19.99 for up to 10 users, with call management and phone system administration, as well as phone rental options for conference phones and even desks. FluentStream is another cloud-based VoIP provider that offers a multi-faceted UCaaS platform and a good number of integrations. There's a decent list of features even for the basic plan ($20 per month), with increasing levels of service options up to contact center level. As expected, mobile use is treated as standard rather than an option, with apps available for Android and iOS. DialPad is a business VoIP platform that powers voice, video, messages, and meetings, and is especially geared towards mobile use. That offers a huge potential benefit by reducing initial outlay costs for hardware if employees can simply use their existing phones or tablet devices. Different sizes of business are catered for, integrations are standard, and pricing varies between $20-$35 per user according to the number of advanced features required. Skype is possibly an option easily overlooked, but had already established itself as a leading provider of VoIP even before it was purchased by Microsoft. Now it offers all the cloud and Office integrations you'd expect from the powerhouse parent company. So long as you're happy to keep your calls online and use mobile phones or tablets for calls and conferencing, this could be the cheapest option of all the ones listed here. 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| 100GB of data at a rock bottom price - there's no beating this iPhone XS deal Posted: 22 Jun 2019 02:22 AM PDT No matter which iPhone XS deal you go with, you're probably going to be paying a pretty big price for it - that's just the game Apple plays nowadays. So if you're going to put the financial investment into this premium device, you might as well go all out on data. Luckily, the kind folks over at Three have created a deal that offers up a massive 100GB of data, while somehow also being one of the lowest prices on the market - yep, we're trying to work that one out too! But no matter how they've achieved this brilliant pricing, we can simply say that we can't see anyone beating this offer anytime soon. At a monthly price of £52, this contract sounds expensive but knocks all other XS deals for six. With 100GB of data you have the capacity to send 40,000 emails, spend 5,000 hours online or even spend 230 hours on a video call - not that we would advise any of these insane feats. So if you're ready for big data and powerful Apple specs, you can see this deal in full below. Or if the price still feels a little bit too high, see our guide to the best mobile phone deals for everything else currently available. This brilliant iPhone XS deal in full:So what's so good about the iPhone XS?There is a good reason for the iPhone XS's lofty price. Extremely powerful and full of features, it's clearly one of the best phones on the market right now, even with competition from the far newer Galaxy S10 deals and Huawei P30 Pro deals. And Apple's near infinity display (that notch still blocks a full screen) looks amazing. Although it hasn't been hugely improved on from the previous model it's about as high-end a phone as you can get right now and especially for this price. Read our full iPhone XS review. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| India vs Afghanistan live stream: how to watch today's Cricket World Cup 2019 from anywhere Posted: 22 Jun 2019 01:53 AM PDT Having won all three of their completed games in progressively impressive fashion, India's reputation as Cricket World Cup 2019's best bet is growing. You'll be able to watch all the action from their next clash no matter where you are in the world by using our India vs Afghanistan live stream guide below. With solid performances across all three sides of their game, it all adds up to another daunting task for struggling tournament minnows Afghanistan, having notched up five defeats so far. On the wounded list for India are key players Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who is set to be replaced by Mohammed Shami and Vijay Shankar who will face a late fitness test ahead of this match. Despite their run of stinging defeats, Afghanistan have undeniable talent throughout their side with the likes of Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, meaning India shouldn't expect a procession on theirway to cementing their place in the semi-finals. You’ll be able to watch all the action with ease from anywhere in the world if you follow our India vs Afghanistan live stream guide below. Watch a Cricket World Cup 2019 live stream from outside your countryIf you're in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, US or India and looking to find out how to watch the match, we've got all the details about the broadcaster in your region below. If you're away from home country and looking to tune in you'll likely to find you won't be able to thanks to geo-blocking. Thankfully there's a way to alleviate that frustration. By using a VPN you'll be able to watch the game safely without having to take a chance on an illegal feed from a website that's likely infested with malware. How to stream 2019 Cricket World Cup online in IndiaHow to watch the cricket in Pakistan for FREEHow to stream India vs Afghanistan live in the UKHow to watch a live stream of India vs Afghanistan in AustraliaHow to live stream India vs Afgjhanistan in New ZealandHow to watch India vs Afghanistan: US live streamThis posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The Outer Worlds: release date, news, trailers and gameplay Posted: 21 Jun 2019 03:46 PM PDT There's very good reason to be excited about The Outer Worlds, a new single-player sci-fi shooter-looter RPG from Obsidian Entertainment. Not only is this the team that brought us one of the most beloved entries in the Fallout franchise, Fallout: New Vegas but, according to its senior narrative designer, Megan Starks, The Outer Worlds isn't afraid to borrow from Bethesda's post-apocalyptic franchise. The premise of the game goes like this: Set on the frontier of space, The Outer Worlds has the player awakening from hibernation amidst a conspiracy to destroy Halycon – a colony residing at the edge of the galaxy driven by big-brand corporations. It's your call how to playand what to choose, with your actions influencing how the story unfolds and the fate of Haylcon itself. Expect hilarious subtext and commentary on corporations and capitalism, plus dialogue choices and combat that keeps you on your toes. Interested? So are we. Here's everything we know so far about The Outer Worlds. Cut to the chase
The Outer Worlds release dateThe Outer Worlds will come out for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC on October 25 2019. The announcement came during Microsoft's E3 2019 keynote, which is available to view down below. The Outer Worlds trailersObsidian showed off 20 minutes of gameplay footage at PAX East, with some witty dialogue, crazy-looking weapons, and a companion who always jumps into the action feet-first. It's also a great look at one of the vibrant city environments (read: a lot of neon). And in this Game Informer video, The Outer Worlds' co-director Tim Cain and lead designer Charles Staples show off some combat gameplay: Obsidian announced The Outer Worlds at The Game Awards 2018 with an official announcement trailer. You can check it out below: The Outer Worlds newsSlow-mo combat Comparisons to Fallout's V.A.T.S. system will be inevitable, but the PAX East demo shows off something called "tactical time dilation", which slows down time to take the pressure off fast-paced combat encounters: "We are trying to give opportunities for people who aren't the best shooter players, to slow things down a bit, get their bearings, and then make decisions that will actually help them during combat". Science weapons The demo also mentioned 'science weapons', which are apparently high-tech items with fun or downright oddball effects – think glowing scythes with corrosion damage, or a purple stick that freezes enemies and shrinks civilians' heads. There'll be science weapons for every weapon type, so it won't just be in melee either. Six main character stats There'll be six main character stats influencing your character's skills, speed, and success in both combat and social interaction: Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Perception, Charm, and Temperament. It's the last one that interest us most: does a grumpy temperament stop people wanting to talk to you, or an easy-going one change your dialogue options? Image credit: Obsidian Entertainment All of the jokes All signs point towards The Outer Worlds not taking itself too seriously. The NPCs really lean into parody, rattling off the names of their favorite brands and speaking obliviously of their "odious interpersonal skills" – while your dialogue options will really let you poke fun. Lots of character customization, little screen time While you'll get to customize your character's appearance, it seems you won't even have a voice. In an interview with Polygon, co-creator Leonard Boyarsky revealed the team has taken an "old-school" approach to the game to allow resources to be focused on a complex narrative. You can play the way you want In the same interview, Obsidian revealed The Outer Worlds is a player-driven game, which means you essentially have the free will to choose whether you want to be a hero, villain or anything in-between through branching dialogue options. Image credit: Obsidian Entertainment Companions Once you progress far enough in the game you will receive your own star ship and crew. These crew members can act as companions as well as offering their own opinion on current events and choices. There's no romance options, though (you can save that stuff for Dragon Age 4). Brand awareness As a story centred around corporations, it's no surprise The Outer Worlds will offer various weapons and items to purchase from 10 different brands. Where will your (brand) loyalties lie? Alternative consequences Rather than take the immediate consequence of something like a critical wound, you have the option to accept a flaw instead. This is a permanent negative debuff which will remain with you throughout the game. Image credit: Obsidian Entertainment The Outer Worlds: what we want to seeWe're sure to get more details over the coming months in the run-up to The Outer World's release (whenever in 2019 that is). In the meantime, here's everything we're hoping Obsidian delivers with the final product. A gripping main storyline (with some meaningful choices) Blending real player freedom with a structured narrative is a difficult juggling act. Few games have managed this as well as the original Mass Effect trilogy, so we'll be eager to see whether Obsidian can repeat the trick for their own sci-fi RPG. A working game engine You'd think we wouldn't have to put this, but so many big studios are ending up shipping unfinished games because of the scale of their enterprises (Assassin's Creed Unity, Fallout 76, etc). Obsidian's track record, though, and the smaller size of its team, suggests they'll be working within their means. Image credit: Obsidian Entertainment Some actual space exploration Sure, having giant planets looming in the sky is cool, but if we don't actual get to enjoy exploring the stars it's little more than wallpaper. Here's hoping Obsidian gives you an environment to explore, rather than making a game that could just have easily been set back on Earth. The beginning of great things to come With Microsoft having recently acquired Obsidian, there's no telling what that injection of cash could do to the development team's ambitions. If The Outer Worlds proves a hit, we could be seeing a lot more of it down the line, with the resources to really make it galactic. (Image credits: Obsidian Entertainment)
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| Marvel’s Avengers game: release date, news, trailers and first impressions Posted: 21 Jun 2019 02:42 PM PDT After two years of secrecy, Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics are nearly ready to talk about their first Avengers game - or, as we know it, Marvel’s Avengers. At Square Enix's E3 2019 press event, we finally got our first look at the game in a story trailer that seems to riff on some of the biggest moments from the Avengers comics. You'll play as your favorite Avengers in an all-new story set in the Marvel universe featuring many Avengers throughout the game (with the exception of Hawkeye) as you save the day from an evil force. According to Crystal Dynamics, the game has 'an all-star cast' that includes Laura Bailey, Nolan North and Troy Baker, some of the most preeminent voice actors in the videogame industry. It was at this year's E3 that we also learned that the game will have a multiplayer component, though it wasn't shown off during the event. What we've heard from Crystal Dynamics in a closed-door briefing is that you'll assemble into teams of four online, customize your characters and fight online together through new scenarios. Crystal Dynamics says this content will be free and will come at a constant clip. Last, but not least, we got a confirmed release date: May 15, 2020. Here's everything we know about Square Enix’s big foray into the Marvel universe. Cut to the chase
Gameplay impressionsWhile no one was allowed to play the game at E3 2019, Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics were allowing attendees to stop by and see an in-depth hands-off demo. The way the game works is that you'll control each Avenger individually and control switches automatically between segments – a flying sequence you might play as Iron Man while a battle scene might use Hulk, for example. Each character has their own set of abilities that mirror what we've seen from comics, movies and other games, and combat largely looks like Marvel's Spider-Man, full of fluid dodging, combo attacks and Quick-Time Events. It's a real cop-out to end the comparison at Marvel's Spider-Man, but that seems to be the look and feel Crystal Dynamics is going for – something that's easy to pick up and makes you feel powerful. The problem here is that, while all the characters have their own skills in combat (activated by the trigger buttons), there really wasn't a ton of variation in the actual gameplay. Most times, characters are shuffled into a battle arena, brawl for a few minutes with some fodder enemies, and then control shifts to the next Avenger in the sequence. It feels safe, but not all that exciting. What Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montreal (who's co-developing the game) did get right are the massive set-pieces that serve as the main stage for the action. In the demo we saw, The Avengers were fighting to save civilians on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco from terrorists led by (spoilers!) Taskmaster. The segment of gameplay we saw involved all five of the game's playable Avengers and culminated in a boss battle. The pacing leading up to the battle felt great, as did some of the Quick-Time Event segments that emulated the movies' big-budget action. Marvel’s Avengers trailers and screenshotsOutside of the logo tweeted out by the game’s Twitter handle, there hasn’t been much in the way of official art. What we do have, however, is the game’s first teaser trailer that came out last year. The big unveiling for the game came at E3 2019, when Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics really let loose a lot of details and clips. We've embedded the Avengers E3 2019 trailer below: We've also got a number of screenshots from the trailer, embedded below: Marvel’s Avengers newsMarvel’s Avengers was finally revealed at the Square Enix E3 2019 press conference on Monday evening, giving us our first real look at the game since it was announced back in January 2017. Gameplay The most important thing we saw was the gameplay, which looked to be a third-person adventure in the same vein as Marvel's Spider-Man. We know we'll get the chance to play as almost all of the most famous Avengers at some point, with the exception of Hawkeye who sadly wasn't part of the unveiling. Marvel’s Avengers will feature “continuous single-player and co-operative gameplay”, and that players can “assemble in teams up to four players, master extraordinary abilities…and combine powers” – i.e. an online multiplayer component that Crystal Dynamics has yet to reveal, but we're hoping we'll hear more about that later. Focus on story Marvel’s Spider-Man blew us away last year with a story full of heart, characters we cared about, and some sensational performances to boot. Square Enix and developer Crystal Dynamics have a wonderful opportunity to deliver a narrative befitting the unbelievable roster of Marvel characters they have inherited. Thankfully, it looks like they're doing just that with Avengers. We know the game takes place after A-Day, the day the Avengers get honored for their service to the community. This day of jubilation is quickly ruined, however, and our heroes our ripped apart – which gives us real Disassembled vibes. Apparently the heroes come back together and will have to face a new threat that wasn't revealed in the trailer. Continuous content? Crystal Dynamics emphasized the idea of a “continuous” game in an “ever-expanding world”. All this content may come first to PS4 thanks to a deal between Square Enix and Sony, but all of it will be free on every platform. Recent games-as-a-service titles such as Destiny, Anthem, and The Division 2 aren’t exactly lauded for their top-tier narratives, so we’re hoping the reveal will confirm the experience won’t be diluted in favour of ever-lasting revenue. Screenshot taken from the E3 Colosseum website. Fresh, diverse range of playable heroes Decades of comics, and 22 movies over 11 years of the Marvel Cinematic Universe ensure fans are well versed on many classic Marvel heroes. While we love Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, and Thor, we think it’s time to introduce some fresh, lesser-known faces in Marvel’s Avengers. Unforunately, for whatever reason, Hawkeye wasn't part of the presentation and Hank Pym – a.k.a Ant Man – only got a supporting role. We’d love to see Khan take centre stage, perhaps even alongside other more recent Avengers, such as Iron Heart, Miles Morales, and Squirrel Girl. Why not? It's Crystal Dynamics' biggest game ever In a recent interview, Crystal Dynamics studio head Scott Amos told GamesIndustry.biz that this is the developer's biggest game to date, requiring five studios from around the globe to make: "We've had to change how we work, how we are organised as a team, the number of people we need to do this, the number of external partners... We've had to go hire experts like Shaun Escayg, who is our creative director. He told stories for Uncharted and The Last of Us [at Naughty Dog], we needed him to help tell this story. Dave Fifield was a game director who worked on Halo and Call of Duty, we needed him to help us with multiplayer," Amos said. The five studios working on the title are Crystal Dynamics at Redwood Shores, a new studio in Bellevue called Crystal North West, Crystal Dynamics' partners in the Netherlands, Nixxes, Eidos Montreal and even Square Enix Japan. Five teams to bring the five Avengers to life? Sounds about right.
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