Look here for Brian M. Westbrook's tech news and details on topics heard on-air during weekly "Tech Expert" segments on FM News 101 KXL (101.1 FM) in Portland, OR. Listen Fridays at 6:20am and 8:20am as part of Portland's Morning News on KXL or online at: KXL.com.
Also find details of radio and television appearances. Feedback or questions to: techexpert (AT) brianwestbrook (dot) com
If you're in Seattle, today during your drive home on KOMO Newsradio, you may have heard me talking about how iOS 7, the latest version of Apple's iPhone and iPad operating system is literally making some user's sick. No, I'm not referring to the hours it took you to download... or your empty bank balance after upgrading to a new iPhone 5C or 5S this past weekend-- but sick from the transition animations built into the most popular software upgrade of all time. Also, we touch on a security update to iOS 7, out today, version 7.0.2 which you should download if you haven't already. Listen to my report on the subject with KOMO Newsradio's Tom Hutyler and let me know what you think. (MP3) Is iOS7 giving you nausea?
For the active Northwest family, keeping your home secure while constantly heading out to enjoy the outdoors can become problematic quickly.
Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt
Enter the Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt. Its sleek pad comes to life with a quick tap. This convenient security device contains the convenience of a touchscreen with the strength and confidence of Schlage, a brand known for security.
After the fine folks at Schlage graciously sent me a device for my own home, I was excited to replace our standard builder-provided, generic, deadbolt with this connected solution.
The installation process was relatively straightforward, even for the novice DIY’er. I hate to admit that I did consult the instructions a few times, but someone experienced with installing locks and deadbolts could likely leave the surprisingly easy-to-read instructions in the package. I had mine installed in less than 25 minutes. I suspect if you’re installing more than one (say, on a back door or side access area), you could have a few minutes off subsequent installs.
You won’t, however, want to ignore the directions when it comes to programming the Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt. With capabilities such as holding up to 30 programmable codes, it’s perfect for guests, housekeepers and neighbors that need temporary access.
Given our front door is on the first level, I’ve assigned custom codes to various friends and family members to save myself a trip downstairs to let them in. (Sure, call me lazy- but technology is supposed to make our lives easier? :-) )
In addition to the custom codes – that can be easily tracked – the lock has sensitivity-adjustable alarms. The alert can act as a deterrent for break-ins making me feel secure that my home is protected – and ensure my friends won’t be left banging on my door for too long if they come for a surprise visit.
Within about a week I was adding and removing codes without consulting the directions—but the power of this smart home security device was really taken to the next level with its z-wave compatibility.
Nexia Bridge
As if the lock isn’t loaded enough with features for you, the Touchscreen Deadbolt connects to your home automation system like Nexia Home Intelligence. By using the Nexia Bridge, your Nexia system’s workhorse, you can access your lock via an internet-connected device. Unlock your front door with your phone or Ipad, program codes remotely, keep track of who has entered your house and when, and receive text alerts about alarm triggers or activation—all from a simple and intuitive interface.
While the power of the Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt was further maximized with the addition of the Nexia Bridge, for many households the smart, strong lock will provide convenience all by itself. Imagine a world without remembering or losing your house keys!
Find yours in a variety of custom finishes and two distinct styles and a variety of finishes to match your décor at Amazon.com, HomeDepot.com, Lowes.com, or other hardware stores for around $199. (The optional Nexia Bridge is available from the same sources under $100 with a reasonable $9/month subscription price.)
As we hit the road this spring on adventures by plane, train, and automobile- there are various devices that will make your vacation or business trip more pleasant. Here, as featured on KING 5's New Day Northwest, are some travel tech recommendations:
Slingbox 500: No more missing your favorite TV shows while you travel! Watch your own TV, from back home, via. the internet using the Slingbox 500 and players available for smartphones, tablets, and portable computers. Pause, replay, and fast-forward your own DVR as if you were sitting in your living room. No monthly subscriptions or usage fees once you’re online! ($299, slingbox.com)
Lytro camera: The innovative camera that lets you adjust the image’s focus AFTER you get home! It's great for travelers because it can be operated with one hand and requires just one click to capture a picture-no focusing required, so you never miss a moment. ($400+, lytro.com)
Globalgig:With a bag full of connected gadgets, you’re going to be scrounging around for a WiFi hotspot on the road. With the Globalgig international hotspot, you can stay connected anywhere there’s wireless data in the world. With flat-rate pricing and simple operation, you can ump online with up to five devices. ($99 (device) $17/mo. (1GB service),globalgig.com)
Computer Apparel Laptop/Tablet Hoodie case:Sure there are plenty of laptop cases and slipcovers out there… but this one really caught my eye. Disguised as your favorite hoodie, this case is made from soft cotton sweatshirt material. Made for laptops up to 15” and tablets such as the iPad. ($40+, computer-apparel.com)
Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt:The touchscreen deadbolt will alert you when family members, the housekeeper, or other authorized guests use their unique code to enter your house. Part of the Nexia Home Intelligence family, you can control lights and open/close blinds making your house look “lived in” even when you’re thousands of miles away.($199+, http://www.schlage.com/)
UClear HBC220: Uclear creates a wireless Bluetooth-powered conversation without cell phones or crazy radios. Simple helmet-mountable devices create a web of communications on-the-fly and is the perfect solution for staying in touch with family on spring adventures. ($250, uclear-digital.com)
What are your must have gadgets for the road? Leave your recommendations below or "like" my Facebook Page to comment!
Apple, Facebook, Twitter, major media outlets and even government agencies have admitted to being hacked. While some are pointing to the Chinese government, there’s a consensus that cybersecurity is a topic we’ll discussing for the foreseeable future.
Tonight, on The Square Live @ 7 w/Stephanie Stricklen, we tackled the topic:
No doubt it’s been a rough week for these brands on Twitter. While these calculated attacks targeted specific brands, they serve as an important reminder for everyone from major companies to individuals, that online security is an important topic.
To make matters, some might say, worse, MTV & sister-company BET got in on the action through an unfortunate PR stunt. The “fake” attack today following the Jeep compromise made light of the attack against Jeep & Burger King. One can certainly see the temptation–Jeep gained approximately 10,000 new followers (the account typically gets a few hundred per day according to twittercounter.com).
When I consult with major brands, we change the passwords often, use secure hard-to-guess codewords and remain cautious of who has those keys. If you are a brand and value your online reputation—take a look at your own strategy much as I’m confident Twitter is also doing.
This is certainly not a problem limited to major companies-- I advise even small businesses and individuals to have a security plan, one they review often, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If they’re NOT reviewing them today—they will (or SHOULD) be by tomorrow.
While we may not have the budgets of the Federal Gov’t or a fortune 500 company—nor, hopefully, the risk that goes along with it—there are definitely some simple things we can do to stay protected:
It was a late night / early morning for those needing to have the latest in a series of Apple iPhones. Today's launch of the iPhone 5 marked the sixth time fans have lined up to own the latest smartphone.
And those willing to camp out overnight, and in many cases MUCH longer, did not disappoint.
As I've done in the past, I checked out the line for news partners FM News 101 (KXL-FM, Portland) and KGW Newschannel 8 (NBC, Portland).
Here's a collection of reports from the (long!) morning:
LIVE with Portland's Morning News on FM News 101 KXL: 8:19am.
Listen to my reports weekly on FM News 101 KXL. I'll have more on the story tonight at 7pm with Live at 7 with Stephanie Stricklen on KGW-TV.
Today at the Google I/O conference at San Francisco's Moscone Center, the Project Glass team demonstrated a Hangout On-Air using Google Glass. Watch the video.
Also, we now know preliminary availability-- $1500, in 2013, but pre-orders are ONLY being taken by those at the developer conference happening this week in SF.
If you're like me, summer (or what we in the Northwest like to jokingly refer to as "the second weekend in August") is a time for travel-- and keeping you organized, and connected, while away from the home is what these gadgets do best.
Jumping back on KING 5's New Day Northwest with Margaret Larson, I shared some of my favorite finds for Summer Travel Tech 2012.
To get you there, or around while at your vacation destination, the portable Greenzone folding bike fits in a trunk, suitcase, or stashed away in your RV. Taking up very little room, the bike still retains all the features of a bulky full-size pedeler. Shimano components and a sturdy, yet easy-to-collapse, construction mean you'll be whizzing around the campground and out exploring in very little time. They start at $200 for the "Value" model and each bike comes with a handy carrying bag (helpful to keep your car's carpeting clean from grime and dirt the bike picks up during your adventure). Get yours at GreenZoneBikes.com or ask at your favorite local bike shop.
Seattle company Brenthaven makes a line of urban-friendly bike and messenger bags for bicyclists and travelers alike. Among the more fashionable is the Kona backpack with plenty of storage, great weight distribution and a rugged construction. The Kona Project 2 Courier Bags are stylish and functional, perfect for your laptop, and start at $150.
The entertaining behaviour-changing Striiv caught my attention as the perfect on-the-go fitness device. More than a pedometer, the digital coach helps motivate activity through game play, challenges with your friends, and real-time performance monitoring. Compete with your friends and raise money for charity (through Striiv's corporate donors!) just by staying active! The Striiv gizmo is $100 and the energy you'll gain by staying active is priceless. [We gave two Striivs away to audience members on the show-- all the more reason to come down to the studio and join us!]
Want to watch movies in your hotel room? backseat of the car? Perhaps on an airline tray-table? Brookstone makes a case for your iPhone 4 that turns the phone into a portable projector! Complete with battery-boosting, the case slips over your iPhone 4 and lets you play movies, slideshows, and more to any surface. While the case works best in lower-light (look for even brighter models in the future), I didn't find the image quality to be at all disappointing. Brookstone's got it for $229 online.
PivotHead puts a FULL HD camera right into your sunglasses. Stay active, record video, capture images and keep your hands free. Simple one-button recording takes full sweeping 1080p video with glasses that are discreet without a lot of extra bulk. Watch the clip above for sample footage. PivotHead.com to pick your frames and lens colors/style.
Liquipel in-action: My iPhone 4 gets wet!
If you asked me what one gadget I couldn't live without, I'd tell you my phone. (Camera being a close second.) Imagine my fright at the concept of being without my phone for two days so a company called Liquipel could treat it with a special process that would make my phone completely watersafe?! Today on the show, I dunked my PERSONAL iPhone 4 into a bath of water. And despite being extremely nervous-- the phone survived!! Sending in your phone takes a few days, but having your phone work after falling into the toilet thereafter? Dropping into the pool? Splashing into a puddle? I was amazed when I heard about the technology-- and now that I've tried it? In a word: Impressed. Watch the clip above to see my reaction the very first time my phone got wet. Liquipel has won awards for this technology, and like the water wisking away from the components of my iPhone-- so did my own nerves. Revolutionary technology. Treat your phone at liquipel.com starting at $59.
Keep all your gadgets organized on the road with the Targus Demolition Backpack. Mine's black, and has pockets for phones, tables, laptop, and all the charging cables/accessories that go along with the high-tech traveler. Targus has been making travel gear for years, and you can really tell between the comfortable wear and the durable construction. Check out the entire line at Targus.com.
What travel tech can you not live without? Ready to get your most prized gadget... WET? Let me know what you take with you on the road and as always, find me online:
A listener forwarded me an email that appeared to be from LinkedIn notifying them of a "new message".
What concerned this gentleman, and quite wisely, was that he didn't know a "Catherine Patterson". While only one of many clues, it was enough to raise the caution flag and seek assistance. Fortunately he asked questions before clicking the links.
I shared the following; perhaps it will be of value to you as well:
You can check the validity of links in Outlook emails by holding your mouse over the link URL. If the URL shown in the mouse-over does not match EXACTLY the URL you’d expect (i.e. linkedin.com -> linkedin.com or at least somethinghere.linkedin.com) you can bet this is bogus. In the example you forwarded, the URL *displayed* is www.linkedin.com but the email code would send you to some crazy amrpartners dot com dot br URL.
While it’s POSSIBLE this is an email re-direct from their email provider, the “.br” domain, among other clues (i.e. you don’t know Catherine Pathttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifterson) makes me confident it’s fraudulent. You can always log in to linkedin.com separately to see if Catherine HAS in fact sent you a message.
Short version: If the mouse-over URL does not equal the displayed URL (and the domain of the site you’ve heard of), simply press delete.
Did you know? The "Washington State Broadband Office of the Washington State Department of Commerce" is an actual, it seems, entity? They sent me a press release with information on the use and availability of broadband in the State.
Among the findings: "3.88 percent of all Washington households do not have access to broadband" (that number, the report states, is an improvement from 2010).
Washington State Broadband Office Releases 2011 Annual Broadband Report Access improves, private investment increases
Olympia, WA – The Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO) of the Department of Commerce released its second annual comprehensive report today on broadband access, availability and use in Washington State. Highlights of the report include: • Just over 44 percent of all Washingtonians have a choice of four wireline providers. • Gaps still exist: 3.88 percent of all Washington households do not have access to broadband – down from 4.3 percent in 2010. • Grantees began work on more than $200M of American Recovery & Reinvestment Act broadband infrastructure projects. During 2011, private investment in broadband increased dramatically, particularly among wireless providers which are expanding their 4G service areas. In the state’s most populated areas wireless speeds jumped from 10 mega bits per second (mbps) to 25 mbps. The report also outlines the goals of WSBO during 2012 and is available online at: http://broadband.wa.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2011BBAnnualRptFINAL.pdf . In addition to the report, updated maps that include broadband availability, upload/download speeds and feedback options are available under the mapping tab at the WSBO website: http://www.broadband.wa.gov/
Virginia Tech, apparently, earned a graduate degree in crisis communications in the four years since the tragic 2007 shootings. When shots were fired on campus yesterday, campus officials used text message alerts, even Twitter, to keep their community and the public at-large informed.
One simple message, sent minutes (not hours) after initial reports of a gunman loose on campus --and several timely updates later-- informed students and staff to simply stay indoors.
After receiving a failing grade during the previous campus tragedy, VT went high tech, installing a outbound text alert system amplifying the message from the administration offices to personal cell phones in pockets across the community.
Such systems are becoming commonplace in universities, hospitals, even municipalities around the world.
One local school campus installed a similar program to notify students in a variety of emergency situations with instant updates in the aftermath of the VT shootings.
If you have a son or daughter in school, yesterday's news from VT should serve as a reminder to check the contact information on file with your campus. Alerts are useless if sent an old or incorrect phone number.
While no one technology is foolproof, even in the best of circumstances. Outages, errors, even dead batteries can thwart complex systems when they're needed most.
Always have a backup.
Think about your own, personal, communications plan: What will you do when the next emergency hits?
Once again, the list of 25 worst passwords is out and the results (as Rebecca asked: "How many years have we been talking about this?") are still somewhat surprising.
But do we really know what information the social media giant is sharing with others?
I recently spoke with KGW-TV (NBC/Portland) Reporter Abbey Gibb about some of the most important settings and how to protect what others see about you.
Few take advantage of the updated security options - possibly because users aren't even aware they're available.
Of course, the tip not listed if you really don't want your information out there? Don't share it on the web at all.
For more perspective on this, or any tech story, drop Brian an email: techexpert AT brianwestbrook DOT com.
Noting the nearly three months since Google+ hit the web, the tech giant announced improvements (nine to be exact) to the social networking site competing with Facebook.
Google+, at approx. 10 million users according to some reports, http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhas a fraction of the traffic of the more-established Facebook at 750+ million users. That hasn't stopped Google from devoting massive resources to the project.
Today's announcement brings, among other improvements: enhanced features for Hangouts (Google+'s group video chat product), the launch of a Hangouts developer API for creating apps and interfaces, as well as the news that invitations are no longer required.
Much to the dismay of many loyal Google users (including myself), they did NOT release support for Google Apps accounts-- the custom "bring your own domain" solution for companies, small businesses and power users with their own branded presence online.
Also notably missing from today's launch is the much-anticipated business profiles feature allowing those non-user accounts from businesses and brands to stake their outpost on the newest social network on the block.
Both features are said to be in testing now and are expected to be released soon.
Are you using Google+? Will these features impact your experience with the social network? What would you like to see added to Google+ next?
Check out Google+ for yourself (invites no longer required!): http://google.com/+
DISCLOSURE: Despite my best efforts, a family member working on the Google+ team coudn't, wouldn't and didn't share any information prior to today's announcement or influence coverage about this news. Maybe next time?
Steve Jobs has clearly set the bar for what it means to move forward in any industry, let alone the technology world. News of his resignation hit the tech community with the intensity normally reserved for world conflicts and natural disasters. Replacing Jobs is Apple Inc. Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook.
The company's board immediately accepted Jobs' recommendation to appoint Tim Cook as CEO and Jobs as Board Chairman.
Medical issues have forced Steve Jobs to take a leave of absence from day-to-day duties three times since 2004.
I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO," Steve Jobs wrote, "I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come."
After founding the company in the 1970's, Steve was ousted by the board before returning in 1996 after Apple acquired NExT computer. He was CEO from 1997 to 20011.
Prior to starting Apple with Steve Wozniak, Jobs enrolled in Portland's Reed College in 1972.
Shopping for Back to School? Check out these picks for a gadget-enhanced education:
HP Pavilion G6— An ideal PC-based laptop for those heading off for college that won’t bust the bank. Improved cooling, a biometric swipe for sign-on, and an HD webcam for keeping in touch with family back home. The brilliant 15.6” LED screen and optional Blu-ray player make it perfect for winding down after a long week of studying. ($600, hp.com)
HP Wi-Fi Mobile Mouse—The first mouse that connects using Wi-Fi to your PC, the innovative mouse contours to your hand and has multiple controls to easily navigate the web. ($49, hp.com)
Kobo eReader Touch—the well-designed touch-screen Kobo sports a lightweight design and using E Ink technology to provide an easy-to-read display. Available in four colors, this lightest-weight eBook reader supports a variety of open standard bookstore formats. ($130, kobobooks.com)
Amazon Kindle—the standard-bearer of the eBook revoluation, the Kindle continues to dominate e-reading. New this year, the Kindle store offers textbook rentals of any length from 30 to 360 days which can be read on your Kindle or any of a variety of phone/computer platforms. ($114, amazon.com)
HP Envy 100—The sleek and compact wireless Envy 100 won’t wake your roommate and supports AirPrint and an easy-to-use print-by-email feature. This printer has memory card slots for photo printing and a scanner to make digital copies of class notes and handouts. ($200, hp.com)
Grace Digital Audio Microsystem—The perfect bookshelf system for background music while studying or cranking the tunes to let loose after finals. Get content from various sources via. the buit-in WiFi connection, load songs from your USB device or connect any portable music player. With five alarm settings, it’ll also wake you up! ($250, GraceDigitalAudio.com)
GriffinTech TechSafe Cable Lock System—Keep your laptop secure… lock it up. Look for an optional Anchor Clamp that turns any table into a secure place to lock down your laptop. ($30, griffintechnology.com)
PowerSkin Battery Pack—with hours between chargers, you can’t afford to be without juice for your smartphone. The PowerSkin battery pack is a case that doubles as a battery pack keeping you in touch with friends and family. ($50-80, power-skin.com)
RageGage: RageGage Smash Pad— a stress-reliever button that contains fun and cheeky expressions to blow off steam during late-night study sessions. A perfect gift for those students heading back to class—sure beats taking your frustration out on the dorm walls. Save the damage deposit and pick up the $20 Smash Pad instead! ($20, ragegage.com)
Grace Digital Audio Microsystem—The perfect bookshelf system for background music while studying or cranking the tunes to let loose after finals. Get content from various sources via. the buit-in WiFi connection, load songs from your USB device or connect any portable music player. With five alarm settings, it’ll also wake you up! ($250, GraceDigitalAudio.com)
Once upon a time, we sharpened our pencils and bought notebook paper to go back to school, but times have changed. Now, there are more gadgets and gizmos than we can count... but how do you know you're buying the right ones for your kids whether they're headed off to middle or high school, or college? Tech expert Brian M. Westbrook shows a bunch of high tech gadgets for Back To School... including:
Kobo eReader Touch— The well-designed touch-screen Kobu sports a lightwveight design and using E Ink technology to provide an easy-to-read display. Available in four colors, this lightest-weight eBook reader supports a variety of open standard bookstore formats. ($130, kobobooks.com)
Amazon's Kindle— The standard-bearer of the eBook revoluation, the Kindle continues to dominate e-reading. New this year, the Kindle store offers textbook rentals of any length from 30 to 360 days which can be read on your Kindle or any of a variety of phone/computer platforms. ($114, amazon.com)
Epson Stylus NX625— All-in-one printer that has build-in WiFi and prints from mobile devices (including the Apple iPhone). Sporting a 2.5-inch color LCD and built-in memory card slots, you'll be printing those reports and homework in brilliant quality. ($130, epson.com)
HP Pavillion G6— An ideal PC-based laptop for those heading off for college that won't bust the bank. Improved cooling, a biometric swipe for sign-on, and an HD webcam for keeping in touch with family back home. The brilliant 15.6" LED screen and optional Blu-ray player make it perfect for winding down after a long week of studying. ($600, hp.com)
HP Wi-Fi Mobile Mouse— The first mouse that connects using Wi-Fi to your PC, the innovative mouse contours to your hand and has multiple controls to easily navigate the web. ($49, hp.com)
Verbatim: Store 'n' Go® Clip-It USB Drive— These tiny USB thumb drives are perfect problem-solvers for transferring photos, projects, or notes back and forth between machines or as a backup. Starting at $23, they're cheap insurance for students of all ages. ($23-60, verbatim.com)
RageGage: RageGage Smash Pad— a stress-reliever button that contains fun and cheeky expressions to blow off steam during late-night study sessions. A perfect gift for those students heading back to class—sure beats taking your frustration out on the dorm walls. Save the damage deposit and pick up the $20 Smash Pad instead! ($20, ragegage.com)
And finally, a handy organizer for your tablet from cocoonbags.com!
For more visit http://tech.brianwestbrook.com or follow Brian on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMW/
