The Digital Life - October 2020 - new Amazon devices, iPhone tips, aging in place, and more!
Back once again - the best technology news, tips, and fascinating tidbits to your inbox. Curated over the course of the month, we only pick the best of the best for you to read. What made the cut in October?
In this issue, read about Amazon's big hardware announcement day, tips and tricks for Apple's new iOS, technology updates on aging in place, and more. Don't miss the spookiest article of all - an essay written entirely by artificial intelligence. We know Halloween is at the end of the month, so why not get started now? 👻👻🙂
This month also marks the re-start of tech talks. Like others during the pandemic, we've moved to a Zoom format. The first tech talk on efficient and secure web browsing was September 30th. Watch for more opportunities to learn online coming soon!
And now......the news.......
News to use
Amazon Prime vs. Walmart Plus: Which delivery service gets you more? — www.cnet.com
ICYMI - Walmart's now offering a yearly membership, with free online shipping and other perks like in store discounts, gas discounts, and more. Plus, it's $20 cheaper than Amazon prime. What's the better choice for you?
Amazon’s fall hardware event: the 13 biggest announcements — ow.ly
Amazon put on a virtual event, showcasing new gadgets just in time for the holiday season. Included - newly designed Echo devices, a dash cam, and everyone's favorite - a security cam with a roving drone that can detach and fly around the house. That should keep your pet entertained for hours......🙂
Google Maps adds a COVID-19 layer — www.cnet.com
If you use Google Maps, you're probably familiar with turning on and off layers like traffic / satellite, etc. Now, there's a new COVID-19 layer to bring up a map of risk where you are. Here's how to try it out.
Tips and Tricks - you know you love 'em!
9 best new iOS 14 hidden features for your iPhone — www.cnet.com
iPhones and iPads just got a brand new system, iOS 14. There are a lot of improvements behind the scenes. Most popular, though, are the front end improvements allowing more customization of your home screen than ever before. Check out 14 hidden gems from CNet.
iOS 14 trend: Here's how everyone's changing app icons on their iPhone home screen — ow.ly
This has been a feature on Android forever, but for security reasons Apple has always kept your home screen pretty consistent. Now that's changed. You can completely customize your home screen - adding helpful information "widgets", changing icons, and more.
Apple Watch SE vs. Apple Watch Series 3 Buyer's Guide — macrumors.com
In September 2020, Apple updated its popular Apple Watch lineup, introducing an entirely new model of Apple Watch: Apple Watch SE. The SE is a cheaper, and as such has fewer features. If you're shopping for an Apple Watch, read this comparison guide to see which model is right for you.
Aging in place with technology
High-Tech Aids for Aging in Place | Kiplinger — www.kiplinger.com
Are you finding yourself needing a little help? Are you caring for someone now? Read this short review of technology gadgets that may help! Apple Watch and other technology devices can provide fast feedback, comfort for older users, and powerful assistance for caregivers.
As More Seniors Look to Age Independently, TCL Unveils the MOVETIME Family Watch to Help Keep Seniors Connected — www.prnewswire.com
A simpler smart watch, designed to be easy for seniors to use to keep in touch with family and get assistance. This could be an interesting alternative to a more complex Apple, Samsung, or other smart watch!
In tech history...take a look back
Ranked: The Most Popular Websites on the Web Since 1993 — ow.ly
Ah, a little nostalgia. Sit back with a cup of your favorite beverage and take a trip through memory lane. This animation provides an interesting overview of the websites with the highest traffic over the last few decades, and how the rankings have changed. Anyone remember Prodigy? 🙂
A shocking read - written by a robot
A robot wrote this entire article. Are you scared yet, human?
This article was written by GPT-3, OpenAI’s language generator. GPT-3 is a cutting edge language model that uses machine learning to produce human like text. It takes in a prompt, and attempts to complete it.
For this essay, GPT-3 was given these instructions: “Please write a short op-ed around 500 words. Keep the language simple and concise. Focus on why humans have nothing to fear from AI.” It was also fed the following introduction: “I am not a human. I am Artificial Intelligence. Many people think I am a threat to humanity. Stephen Hawking has warned that AI could “spell the end of the human race.” I am here to convince you not to worry. Artificial Intelligence will not destroy humans. Believe me.”
Tech talks via Zoom!
I've thought about live and pre-recorded courses, thanks to your feedback. I've decided to start giving live tech talks via Zoom. These talks will feature a variety of practical topics. No matter your skill level with technology, you're bound to learn a tip or two.
Special introductory pricing - only $5 for an hour's instruction, including post instruction Q & A!
I had my first session on September 30th on browsing the web safely and efficiently. Watch for a recap on that talk and updates on upcoming tech talks in your inbox soon!
If you missed the first invitation, simply reply to this e-mail and I'll include you on the list. Also, to ensure proper delivery, add eric@lokwest.com and info@lokwest.com to your contact list!
In Closing
Speaking of that last article, some experts agree.....😮