Category: Articles

Nowadays, everyone has a smartphone or a high-tech computer. Buying new technology can feel relieving, especially if your prior device didn’t have the imperative updates. But, it’s hard to figure out when purchasing a new device is advantageous or if a tech company is simply trying to get its consumer base to buy more unnecessary products. 

Since companies like Apple and Microsoft are consistently churning out innovative tech, it’s easy to get carried away by purchasing the newest, exciting product. Here are some ways to determine if updating your smartphone or computer is the right financial move.   

Security Reasons 

Experts suggest that users upgrade their phones after two or three years. But what if your smartphone has been working consistently for over five, six, or seven years? Though it might work efficiently enough, new virtual vulnerabilities arise every year, which leaves old phones susceptible. 

Engineers at companies like Apple will update the computer and phone software monthly to ensure technical bugs are eradicated and the best possible privacy settings are available. Though updating your device can eliminate the threat of the most recent security issues, this is not always the case. If you can afford it, consider replacing your device after three years. Since newer devices have updated software and built-in privacy settings, they’ll provide a safer experience for the user.  

Slow Operation 

You’ve noticed years after purchasing your phone or laptop that it’s running less efficiently. After years of usage, your device accumulates images, data, songs, photos, and other files that pile up and slow down the software. Excessive data storage can be a significant reason for a phone’s frustrating delay. 

Another reason your tech might not be properly working may be an upgrade’s opposition to older hardware. If you’ve been consistently updating your software on your phone or laptop, the newer versions might not be compatible with old hardware. The latest upgrades are intended to be used with new phones and computers, which may be too difficult for the older tech to process. 

If the software updates aren’t helping your device operate more smoothly, then this might be time for you to get a physical upgrade. 

Reduced Battery Life 

Battery life is one of the trickiest issues with phone and computer upgrades. When your phone battery is depleting quicker than usual, there aren’t many solutions to reverse the effect. 

Most smartphones have lithium-ion batteries included in the hardware. Over time, the battery’s chemical components eventually degrade, affecting the phone’s efficiency. After 200 or 300 charges, a smartphone can lose up to a fifth of its ability to maintain a regular charge.

If this occurs in your phone, it’s the right time to ditch the old device and purchase an upgrade. 

Apps Continue to Crash 

Sometimes, opening apps will be difficult and glitchy on your phone or computer. Some troubleshooting will usually fix this problem, like a quick restart. If the downloaded apps in question are still glitchy, there may be a more significant problem. 

Apps may shut down before opening because they’re too complex for your device’s current RAM or CPU. If updating your software doesn’t help the problem, then that’s probably an indication that you’ll need to upgrade your device entirely. 

Purchasing New Devices

Buying brand-new phones and computers is a wish that’s easier said than done. With inflation at record-high rates, it’s not easy for the average individual to drop $1,000 or more on updated tech. Luckily, Black Friday is on the horizon, making this fall the perfect time to plan for what devices you’ll need to purchase. 

Every year after CES, the annual tech trade show, companies that displayed new inventions at the convention move their older models out of warehouses and into retailers. Giant retailers like Amazon and Best Buy will have these models for discounted prices. Check out these stores in the upcoming months to see if they have the device you’ll need to upgrade to. 

If you have an Apple product and don’t want to pay for a completely new device, there’s one more troubleshooting technique you can apply before giving up. iOS 16, Apple’s upcoming innovative software, will be released in mid-September. The iOS will help remove bugs and improve your old device’s privacy settings. If this helps enhance your phone or laptop’s efficiency, then you might be able to survive having an outdated device for another year or two.   

Privacy and security while using the internet are a high priority for most. With companies like Facebook who’ve been caught selling private user data, ensuring that your information is adequately encrypted is critical. If you want to work and shop online while protecting your identity, here are some of the best tactics to ensure your safety. 

Share Fewer Details Online 

Sharing fewer details online might seem like an easier-said-than-done tactic, but committing to share fewer personal details could lessen your chances of enduring a frightening data breach. Especially on social media platforms, being aware of how much personal information you include could keep your livelihood and data safer. 

With many online platforms, they’ll ask for optional information from you to complete data profiles. Adding your middle name or phone number might not be necessary for specific social media sites, so it’s essential to opt out when you can. Another great way to limit data breaches is to implement privacy settings on your accounts and profiles. If you share intimate, personal details or photos on sites like Instagram and Facebook, it’s best to limit who has access to that information. 

Create A Secondary Email

It’s standard for streaming services or online shopping websites to require an email to continue your transactions. But as time goes on, these sign-ups can add up, creating an influx of unwanted emails from retailers and e-commerce sites you don’t need. Creating a throw-away email can not only help separate work or important messages from junk, but it can also protect your personal information. 

A nefarious activity common on the web is third-party retailers buying email and phone number lists for targeted advertising. These lists can also end up in the wrong hands, leading to a hack or a data breach. An external email address not connected to personal online accounts could help keep your personal information private and unphased. 

Strong Passwords and Two-Step Authentication

We’ve come a long way from simply using our mother’s maiden name as a secure password. With experienced hackers accumulating daily on the internet, it’s imperative to have solid, convoluted passwords to ward off bad actors. 

A strange combination of letters, numbers, and symbols for strong passwords nowadays will help create an impressive barrier to identity theft or information breaches. Make sure you write down passwords off the internet to have a safe place to reference in case you forget. 

An additional protection measure many websites are taking is two-step verification. After putting in your password, a website might prompt you to enter a randomized code sent to your phone or email. This way, websites can ensure that you are the valid owner of the account being entered. It also helps deter hackers since they won’t have access to your phone or email quickly enough to receive the verification code.    

Delete Apps

Are there apps on your phone that you’re not using anymore? Unfortunately, many dormant phone apps could leave your personal information vulnerable. 

The best way to limit the chance of an information breach is to delete all unused apps on your iPhone or Android. Since many phone applications rely on user data, hackers often target that technology to obtain private information. It’s also important to purge your computer of unnecessary applications as well. Recently, eight different Firefox and Chrome extensions were found guilty of tracking activity outside their respective sites. This makes the need to remove all unwanted extensions and applications all the more imperative. 

Install a VPN     

Installing a secure VPN is the final step in keeping your personal information as safe as possible. A VPN obscures your IP address and encrypts your data, allowing you to move through the internet in a relatively untraceable manner. If you have to use public WiFi at a coffee shop or restaurant, installing a VPN can stop hackers from infiltrating your computer when connected to an open network. 

When using your computer, your ISP (internet service provider) records your online actions like browsing history and private information. Obscuring this information can lower the possibility of a bad actor collecting personal data through an unprotected device.  

Outlining the prevalence of data breaches shouldn’t deter you from using the internet. Instead, implement these privacy and security techniques to use caution when browsing the internet. These five strategies for online privacy can help you prevent hackers and protect your personal information. 

Coffee shops are the perfect place to sit, relax, and get some work done. Artisan cafés have become quite popular over the last decade, with each individual shop attempting to one-up their competitors. 

Milwaukee is a midwestern city full of quaint cafés with tastefully roasted coffee. Here are some of the best coffee shops in the area that include free WiFi. 

Colectivo Coffee 

You’re probably familiar with this coffee franchise if you live in the midwest. Colectivo got its start in Milwaukee and has spread its cafés to many neighborhoods in Chicago. 

Colectivo’s Prospect location is one of the Milwaukee destinations that locals go to get their work completed. Its intimate hanging light fixtures, long, library-style tables, and cozy aesthetic is perfect for focusing on essential tasks. Formerly an auto parts store, it’s got an excellent warehouse vibe that feels open and comfortable simultaneously. 

If you’re feeling energized by the end of the day, the shop opens up to the Colectivo Back Room, transforming its former roastery into a sizeable venue. Find out more about the Colectivo Prospect location here: https://colectivocoffee.com/cafes/prospect-the-back-room 

Anodyne Coffee Company

Located in Milwaukee’s hip Bay View neighborhood, Anodyne has been operating and roasting since 1999. 

The coffee shop prides itself on making small-batch, locally roasted coffee for a delicious cup every pour. The store sells more than coffee, though. It switches to a luxurious eatery at night, selling artisan pizzas and craft beer. There’s ample room to sit and do your work at the bar or at the elongated, wooden tables in the shop’s center. 

Anodyne has an extremely midwestern aesthetic with its cabin-style design and ambiance. Stop by the store to answer your emails and enjoy excellent coffee or beer. https://anodynecoffee.com/pages/bay-view 

Valentine Coffee Roasters    

This coffee company has stores in three different locations in Milwaukee: the Historic Third Ward, Washington Heights, and Oak Creek. The newest shop in the Third Ward elevates its aesthetic by adding a modern twist, with sleek grey-and-blue tables and industrial light fixtures. 

Valentine has been a local favorite for quite some time, mainly due to the owners’ extensive restaurant experience. Robb Kashevarof and Joe Gilsdorf have more than a decade of restaurant knowledge, which is reflected in their menu’s breakfast items, soups, and salads. 

If you need a place in Milwaukee to set up shop for a while, Valentine is the perfect spot to do so. Check out more about Valentine’s background, stores, and coffee roasting here: https://www.valentinecoffeeco.com/ 

Stone Creek Coffee

Founded in 1993 by Wisconsin-born Erich Resch, Stone Creek has a familiar and cozy coffee environment and crafts exceptional drinks. 

Stone Creek’s newest addition to its cafés, the Stone Creek Factory, operates as a roastery, coffee training facility, and store all in one. There are two humungous seating areas in the shop, one near the barista station and another surrounding a lovely fireplace. The Stone Creek Factory prides itself on utilizing recycled materials for its interior, like its wide wooden tables and industrial beams. 

Stop by one of Stone Creek’s nine locations for a productive work day and a lovely cup of joe. https://www.stonecreekcoffee.com/cafes/ 

Rochambo Coffee & Tea House

Rochambo is an unconventional Milwaukee spot open for more than 25 years. Located on the city’s east side, the store focuses on sustainability and ethically sourced products. 

 If you pull up to this coffee house, you might be fooled by its residential aesthetic. But this colorful green-and-purple Victorian home is the Rochambo location, ensuring the customers get a snug, midwestern feel when entering the mid-century duplex. There’s plenty of seating to spread out and get your work started, with bartop tables near the barista counter and more available on the second floor. 

If quirky is more your style, then Rochambo is the epitome of eccentric coffee houses. Stop by this longstanding location for uninterrupted work accompanied by your favorite tea. https://www.rochambo.com/ 

Milwaukee may not be the premier midwestern city for tourists, but it’s got plenty to offer. Each neighborhood is crammed with comforting, state-of-the-art cafés for all to enjoy. If you’re looking for a delicious cup of coffee or need a spot to respond to your emails, these five cafés are a great place to start.

Inside your home, it’s crucial to have WiFi. But when traversing the world outside, it’s not always expected that every building you enter will have accessible high-speed internet. As more coffee shops, restaurants, and stores integrate free WiFi, it becomes more expected for business owners to provide this luxury.

Many of the general public’s feelings about restaurants and businesses providing free WiFi are the same expectation for conventions and public events. With 84 million smartphone users in the US, having available internet is a necessity for attendees. Here are some things to consider when setting up WiFi for your function.

Budget your WiFi

Hosting an event can be for ten people or it can be for ten thousand. The first thing to consider when hosting a public function is how many attendees will likely come to the function. More WiFi power will require a more expensive package, depending on how many people RSVP and how large the space is.

 

An abundance of attendees means ensuring high-speed internet reaches every cellular device without interruption. This will be more costly for planning since more funds will go to WiFi extenders and upgraded internet packages. Make sure your budget can handle a massive investment in WiFi, or you might have to charge your guests who use the event’s internet.

WiFi Usage

Though having available cellular service for event attendees is excellent, many use their smartphones for other reasons. People could log on to social media, snap a quick picture at a function, or access a data-heavy presentation. Figuring out how your attendees will use their phones during the event will help you pick out the perfect WiFi package.

If your event is for a training seminar or is interactive, attendees would be using their laptops or phones simultaneously. Everyone connected to the WiFi at the same time could dampen the connection. If your event is likely to have this kind of internet traffic, ensuring you’re purchasing a quality high-speed package is imperative.

WiFi Can Help Engagement and Advertisement

Providing free WiFi to a room of a thousand people is a high expense. Though your team might have to budget a hefty amount for the best WiFi package, the ROI, or return on investment, can be highly profitable.

If your event has anything to do with your business or your product, then having free, uninterrupted WiFi is an absolute must. With smartphone users sporting many social media apps, attendees posting about your event is instantaneous free advertising. Mainly if your function revolves around a product, it’s necessary to provide efficient WiFi. If attendees consistently post about your product on social media, your return on investment might be substantial due to the free public outreach.

Research Internet Providers

Though it may seem counterintuitive, some of the biggest names of internet providers might be the wrong fit for a significant function. Do your research online about which WiFi service could give your event the best results based on your event space and number of attendees.

Most large companies focus on working with home and apartment-style modems. These modems only need to work for one or two floors and in relatively small square footage. Another issue with large internet providers is their support policies, where technicians are penalized for fixing an issue too slowly, potentially making the technicians rush the job.

Working with smaller, local internet providers could be better if you have trouble with setting up your WiFi connection. Research the internet company to see their support policies before making a final purchase.

Pick the Perfect Bandwidth

Bandwith is something all internet users have heard but might not be able to define. Bandwidth means the maximum of data transferred with a particular internet connection. Having a lower bandwidth usually means cheaper since the internet connection cannot withstand massive data.

For most events with many guests, looking into dedicated bandwidth might be a good option. Dedicated bandwidth operates through one user instead of stretching out the internet connection to many participants through broadband. This option can help with latency issues but needs fiber optic cables in the event’s building to work correctly. If your event space does not have fiber optic cables, purchasing point-to-point antennas is your next best option.

Providing free internet is something everyone wants nowadays. Various factors play into what type of WiFi you’ll need for optimal success for an event. These tips will help anyone attempting to set up free, efficient WiFi for an event or function.

Internet is a valuable, imperative part of our lives and our workspaces. Without functioning internet, most tasks would be excruciating to fulfill. With technology only advancing in our favor, rapid-speed, efficient internet is highly accessible and relatively inexpensive. Here are five ways high-speed internet can improve your life and your business. 

High-Speed Is More Affordable  

Because high-speed internet is marketed as better, the preconceived notion might be that it’s much more expensive. But that’s not the case; though the initial price might be steeper than a standard package, paying for quicker internet services won’t be too much of a cost jump. 

Most high-speed internet providers will have a service called VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). What this service allows you to do is to connect telephone line services to your internet provider. If you work in a business with many different phones and extensions in the workplace, combining these two services could save you exorbitant amounts of money.  

VOIP is compatible with your company’s handsets, headsets, laptops, and other communication devices. Having a two-in-one service will yield better financial results for a business that operates with many employees. 

Privacy  

In this day and age, cybersecurity is an absolute necessity. With major companies like Facebook revealing that they’ve sold users’ information for profit, protecting personal data has become urgent. Purchasing high-speed internet for your company will usually come with better, more secure data protection.    

Paying a little extra for better internet efficiency often comes with superior privacy technology. Preventing security threats is a top priority for any business, so making sure you purchase a high-speed internet package will be in everyone’s best interests. 

Slow internet could also lead to a preventable breach. Inefficient internet allows for more pauses between data transfers, which is the perfect time for a hacker to attack. Faster data transfers between employees will help prevent potential data interferences and keep your business running smoothly. 

Communication 

If you have many employees under you or just a few coworkers you interact with, uninterrupted communication is critical. High-speed internet aids in better collaboration and more productivity overall. 

Amid this pandemic, many offices transitioned to a work-from-home policy. Working remotely is now more common than ever, making fast, reliable internet essential for timely communication. Implementing high-speed internet will help keep everyone up-to-date with tasks, no matter where each collaborator is stationed. 

Stronger Signal 

For those who have returned to the office, reliable internet needs to be accessible from anywhere in the workplace. High-speed internet is more capable of spanning longer distances, ensuring that every office can access the signal they need. 

As a workspace grows, more employees will need their own spaces. Adding more cubicles or expanding the physical business can weaken a router’s signal. The farther someone is from the router, the more potential for interference. Having high-speed internet for your office will help feed stronger WiFI signals to the entire workspace. 

Reducing Stress 

Work is already stressful. Supplying efficient, reliable internet is the least an employer can do to keep everyone happy and productive. 

Everyone has experienced the moment of pure agony when the WiFi signal goes out during an important project or task. These types of situations are inevitable, but there are definite ways to diminish the possibility of office-wide internet problems. Getting high-speed internet won’t only be cost-efficient in the long run, but it will lead to a less-stressed workplace. If receiving a solid signal is no longer a worry, everyone will be able to do their work productively without added stress from the internet lagging. 

Any modern business has internet provided. But, picking out the right bundle is where many workplaces falter. Cutting costs on a standard package will often lead a company to more stressed employees, possible data breaches, and frustrating WiFi outages. High-speed internet will improve your business entirely, from more jubilant workers to clearer office communication.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, video conferencing has been an integral part of our lives. Whether it’s catching up with friends or discussing projects with coworkers, video-chat software has aided all of us. In 2022, here are the best video software to stay connected. 

Zoom

What video-chatting list would be complete without Zoom? The program that’s become synonymous with video conferencing altogether, Zoom rose to prominence in 2020. 

The free option is helpful for its reliability and its capacity to host many people at a time. Up to 100 people can join one Zoom session, making it the perfect software for offices and schools. Sending files, gifs, and photos is easy and at no additional price, helping everyone stay as connected as possible. 

Download Zoom on your computers here: https://zoom.us/ 

WebEx Meetings 

WebEx Meetings is a popular video conferencing software for businesses. WebEx Meetings is reliable, adaptable, and has many additional office bonuses. 

WebEx Meetings is excellent for the workplace for background noise removal, smaller virtual breakout rooms, and customizable layouts. Realtime language translations are included in the program, ensuring cross-nation communication is productive and straightforward. Automatic transcriptions, highlights, and notetaking are available for hosts and guests, allowing for more dynamic collaboration. 

More about WebEx Meetings can be found on their website: https://www.webex.com/

BlueJeans Meetings  

Another video conferencing software specific for the office is BlueJeans Meetings. Like WebEx Meetings, BlueJeans incorporates laptops, phones, and room systems into one meeting. 

Users have highly favored its extreme reliability, with almost zero delay time between callers. With many tools to collaborate, BlueJeans is one of the most successful office web conferencing software on the market. 

The standard price is $9.99 a month, with the most expensive package only $16.66 per month: https://www.bluejeans.com/products/meetings 

Google Workspace 

Google Workspace is the best software for sharing and viewing Google-related documents. Seamlessly integrating Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, and Slides, collaborating with your friends or coworkers is easier than ever.     

The user-friendly design makes it a great video conferencing program for beginners. Especially when most people have experience with Google interfaces, this software makes it a go-to for many companies. It also can incorporate Google Drive into the conferences, allowing everyone to interact and discuss documents together. 

Find out More about Google Workspace here: https://workspace.google.com/pricing.html 

GoTo Meeting

With a 99.9% uptime, GoTo Meeting also regards itself as one of the most reliable video conferencing programs. 

While most of these programs are downloadable, GoTo operates on the website. It’s easy to use since anyone can join and invite a guest as well. Video conferences can include up to 250 members, perfect for large companies. The clarity with both audio and video makes GoTo an impeccable software for socializing or corporate meetings. 

There’s a 14-day trial, with the standard plan starting at $12 a month. 

DialPad 

Used as a socializing application, this program has HD video software for vibrant,  face-to-face chatting. 

With DialPad, you can start video chats from a web browser without downloading pesky. There’s also an application for phones if you need to take video conferencing on the go. It includes in-meeting chatting, screen sharing, and unlimited calls for entirely free software. 

Get DialPad for free to experience state-of-the-art video calling software: https://www.dialpad.com/ 

In 2022, there will be many different video-chatting programs to choose from. Whether you’re in an office meeting or trying to reconnect with old colleagues, these programs are helping us connect and collaborate during an unprecedented time. With these six programs, you’ll be able to utilize top-tier video conferencing in your day-to-day life.

2022 is another year of incredible innovation and unique technology. With Elon Musk’s consistent launching of satellites to fuel-efficient cars, nothing is too complex for modern manufacturers. 

While space travel is excellent, what technologies in 2022 will improve our day-to-day life? Here are some of the best smart home trends you need to know this year.

Sensors  

Motion sensors are a definite trend in homes nationwide. Sensors like the ones from Ecobee are small and maneuverable, perfect for any surface in your home. 

Ecobee’s SmartSensors operate in a plethora of ways for optimal comfortability and safety. The product can detect when you’re in the room, triggering your thermostat to turn on the heat. In the case of a break-in, the SmartSensors is compatible with Ecobee’s Smart System to notify you of an unwanted presence. 

These tiny objects are the way of the future, and sensors are becoming more ubiquitous in the average household.

Smart Toilets 

These days, everyone wants the most out of their gadgets. But, many don’t assume that toilets would be the appliance needing an upgrade. Toto’s Wellness Toilet is undoubtedly a trend of the future, designed to provide health management advice based on your bowel movements. 

Though this specific type of toilet is not on the market, Toto has hinted at its release in the coming year. The toilet would be able to scan your body and poop to assess what changes you need in your diet. These notifications would pop up on a phone app, giving you details about your food intake while documenting your bowel improvements. 

You can check out more about Toto’s futuristic toilets here: https://www.totousa.com/ces_2021 

Ring Always Home Cam

Set to release sometime this year, Ring Always Home Cam is equipped with a drone designed to roam and protect your household. 

The Ring Always Home Cam has object-avoidant sensors, a 1080p camera, and a sleek, black finish. The drone will be able to fly around your house while avoiding valuable objects and walls. The footage it picks up with its camera will be available on the Ring app, providing homeowners with a 360-degree live stream at any time. You can also set the drone’s runtime, forcing it to return to its charging port upon completion.   

More information is available about Ring products on the website: https://ring.com/

Artificial Intelligence 

If you watch any sci-fi movie, you’ll know that robots are the most prominent indication of an advanced society. Vocal refrigerators and appliances that track your whereabouts are now standard amenities, and we can only expect home AI to become more and more complex. 

Many expect a rise in smart kitchen and bathroom products to hit the market this year. Even appliances like bathroom mirrors have changed to interact with its homeowners. 

The Eschelon Smart Mirror is an excellent example of this; this smart mirror has the power to project live workouts on its HD screen, and it’ll give you direct feedback on your performance. Who knew mirrors could act as complete, interactive TVs in 2022? 

Home Integration 

As technology excels, homeowners and renters expect elevated products and appliances. Many developers and realtors are changing what they install inside homes based on modern expectations. 

A huge trend for 2022 is having a home equipped with a smart system, like Amazon’s Alexa. With a central system, homeowners can control their space and ensure every room is taken care of. 

By installing smart systems that interact with each other, like smart sensors and water monitors, devices can take care of potential issues without a physical human present. 

In 2022, homes will be more advanced than we ever could’ve imagined. Drone surveillance, AI, and interactive mirrors are trends that will continue to elevate throughout the next few years. Smart homes are becoming less of a futuristic phenomenon and more of an expectation for families nationwide.

In 2022, we know massively more about social media and search engines than years prior. Many are turning their backs on Google-owned products and applications. Google’s engines run on personal data collection, so deciding to part ways with the technology giant is understandable. 

Whether you have an issue with Google as a brand or not, other tech companies exist for consumers to try. Here are some of the best alternatives for technology enthusiasts wanting to branch out. 

Brave Browser

Brave Browser is a browser with a privacy focus. If you are wary of having your personal information stolen online, transferring to this browser is a great option. 

Brae Browser comes with ad-block and pop-up blockers, so no need for additional downloads. Without ads, you’re able to peruse the world wide web privately. No more will you search for cooking recipes and find targeted ads for winter coats. The engine isn’t collecting your data, so advertisers can’t interrupt your internet time.  

Find out more about Brave Browser and all its features here: https://brave.com/ 

ProtonMail 

Email is synonymous with Gmail these days. For those wanting a change in this department, ProtonMail is a fantastic alternative. 

ProtonMail is, first and foremost, a Swiss company. Switzerland is at the forefront of internet privacy law, ensuring ProtonMail’s ethos of protecting your data. The company uses end-to-end encryption, which means its engineers cannot decrypt users’ emails. 

ProtonMail comes without installing software so that you can access the site with any device. Transferring to this emailing platform is a breeze, too, with no hassle receiving emails from Gmail or other messengers. 

Starting your account is completely free, so what’s stopping you from giving ProtonMail a try? https://protonmail.com/ 

Odysee 

Like Gmail, YouTube is known for its distinctive, user-driven videos. Growing up in the rise of YouTube, many of us are clueless that other video-content platforms exist. Odysee is one non-Google platform taking the video world by storm. 

Just like Youtube, Odysee is a website that its users entirely propel. The site began as an independent force with reinvented community guidelines. Platforms owned by the same company meant more rules dictated by massive entities like Google. CEO Jeremy Koffman wanted to split from this technological dictatorship, establishing Odysee as a more free-thinking platform. 

While the website has safety guidelines, Odysee advertises user autonomy with less oversight. This independence attracted users by the millions to Odysee and changed the game for independent creators. 

Check out more about Odysee in all of its glory here:  https://odysee.com/

Waze 

There is a multitude of applications for finding directions. Google Maps is a popular one, but many might be familiar with Waze as well. 

Waze is a direction app that focuses on the fastest way to reach your destination. Visual representations of traffic appear on your screen, and updates about collisions and roadwork pop up in real-time. You can also use Waze to plan ahead, with app recommendations on leaving time and ETA. 

Waze incorporates live traffic, accidents, and pit stops into your daily routine. It’s great for every day or planning an extensive road trip, so maybe it’s time to ditch Google Maps for good. https://www.waze.com/waze 

DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo is another search engine that prioritizes user privacy. Either as its website or extension to chrome, DuckDuckGo is extraordinarily versatile and intuitive. Like Brave Browser, this company is putting a significant focus on private web browsing. Google’s engine holds onto people’s search history by default, making its users the perfect target for advertisers. DuckDuckGo does not track search history and can repel Google’s trackers while you use its Chrome extension. 

DuckDuckGo promises faster internet usage when switching to its search engine.  After the suspension of tracking codes, you’ll be able to browse the internet without interruption. Its easy search feature called “Bangs” allows you to use the search engine as a shortcut for other sites like Wikipedia or Youtube.

DuckDuckGo brings something innovative to the table while ensuring maximum privacy. Check out the website here: https://duckduckgo.com/?va=b&t=hc 

With information leaks and companies selling personal data, using the internet ethically and safely is more important than ever. These are the best alternatives for making a switch from Google products. YouTube and Gmail might feel indispensable, but these products sure give Google a run for its money. 

Writing down your goals for the new year is an essential step for change.  But, does putting your goals in writing actually help your improvement process?  

A list is all it takes to start self-improvement for some people.  A helpful push is necessary for goals to become a reality for others.  This uncertainty is where the App Store comes into play.  

Goal tracking and personal improvement apps are all over the internet.  Choosing the right ones, well, that’s another dilemma.  Here are some of the absolute best apps for setting resolutions this holiday season.

Click Up

Click Up might be old news for you since it’s one of the App Store’s most popular.  It’s a free goal management and productivity app that’s visually appealing and intuitive.  

You can create, edit, and organize your personal goals.  The app offers additional pieces to help you achieve these goals, like due dates and reminders.  Separating goals based on categories, like business and personal, acts as a beneficial organizing tool.

“Weekly scorecards,” another facet of the app, lets you break down your goals step-by-step.  This feature can be great for coworkers and groups, with options to allow everyone to see each other’s goals.  Having shared and public goals make us more accountable for the responsibilities we set.  

This app will have you fulfilling your New Year’s resolutions in no time.  Check out more about Click Up here: https://clickup.com/

Weekdone 

Weekdone is another app insistent on week-by-week goal achievements. 

 It tracks long-term and short-term goals, accessible metrics, and reminders.  You can manage your goals by importance, making sure you prioritize the things you need to finish quicker.  Weekdone also includes dashboards, which are helpful for collective or team goals.  Allowing the user to see if everyone’s on top of their tasks makes everyone more accountable.  

Weekdone has a free plan, but more tools are available for upgrading to a monthly schedule.  You can read all about Weekdone here:  https://weekdone.com/ 

Way of Life App 

The Way of Life app is perfect for setting goals in 2022.  This app is your best bet for anyone who needs a push to create healthy habits.  

You start Way of Life by making a list of habits you’re trying to break or start.  After that, the app will remind you daily to ensure you’re following your intentions.  These tasks are color-coded intuitively: green indicates a completed goal, and red indicates an incomplete one.  There are many parts to customize with your goals, including deadlines and reminders.  

The Way of Life app has everything that’ll get your habits aligned next year.  See more about the app here: https://wayoflifeapp.com/ 

LifeRPG 

Sometimes the brain needs a little tricking to get all of our tasks done.  But what if the gimmick is to make your life into a video game?  

LifeRPG takes gamer language and a high-tech layout to make task-completing more exciting.  First off, the goals that you set are known as “missions.”  The missions include three parameters (difficult, fear, and urgency) that you can customize. The difficulty parameter is for explaining how tough the task is to complete. The fear parameter indicates the level of anxiousness you feel about a specific goal. Completing a mission means winning a number of points, just like in a video game. 

Inject some fun into your New Year’s resolution with LifeRPG: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jayvant.liferpgmissions&hl=en_US&gl=US 

Headspace 

One of the most downloaded meditation apps, Headspace has plenty to offer for improving the mind and spirit.  

First off, meditation is proven to lower anxiety and help manage stress.  There are guided meditations on the app that are perfect for people on the go.  The ten-minute sessions are great for beginners and workaholics; thirty-minute and hour-long sessions are also available for more experienced yogis.  

If improving sleep is on your 2022 wishlist, Headspace is here to help.  This app is ready to get your sleep cycle in check with bedtime stories, relaxing music, and before-bed exercises.  

Headspace is available for monthly or yearly subscriptions.  Check out the website for their subscription deals and more:  https://www.headspace.com/

Happier 

A more emotional take on self-improvement, the Happier app is designed to make a habit of self-reflection.  

For some, working is so time-consuming that checking in emotionally never occurs.  Simply understanding our mood, and appreciating the little things, can drastically improve our livelihood.      

In Happier, joy and satisfaction are skills you can achieve.  With holistic self-evaluations, the app assesses your happiness and offers advice on accomplishing your goals.  Happier is also known to send you inspiring quotes throughout the day, reminding you of your mindfulness goals.  

It’s a fantastic app if you’re looking to track your goals and boost your mood.  Find out more about Happier and The Happier Project here: https://the-happiness-project.com/pages/happier-app 

Accomplishing the goals we set for ourselves is beyond challenging.  In the 21st century, there are luckily plenty of options to guide us on our self-improvement journey.  2022 will be a year of resolutions, and this list of apps will get you there with swiftness and ease.  

Gift giving: one of the most challenging elements of the holidays.  Figuring out what present is best for each family member is a frustrating and defeating task.  But, all hope isn’t lost this holiday season.  

If you’ve got a family member, friend, or loved one who likes technology, there are some budget-friendly options.  New products are constantly released, so keeping up with these gadgets can be troublesome.  Here are some excellent tech products to gift somebody this holiday season to make this time more manageable.  

Roku 

If your friend invites you over to watch TV but has no streaming services available, this gift is the perfect fix.  

Many are familiar with this powerful gizmo; its limitless nature allows users to stream Netflix, watch Youtube, and even check email.  Roku lets you add endless channels to your device, from Criterion to Disney+.  You’ll never have a boring night of TV again, with multiple programs and services at your fingertips.  

Roku is available at superstores around the country and online. https://www.roku.com/ 

PetCube 

Pets are a crucial part of our family unit.  But It’s stressful wondering if your dog or cat is behaving when you’re not around.  The PetCube is an excellent present for those family members who stress about their pets’ whereabouts.  

PetCube is a versatile HD camera with a 110º angle for maximum clarity.  It includes night vision up to 30 feet and superb zoom-in features.  There’s even an option to chat with a vet if you have questions or worries about your beloved pet.  

For less than $40, it’s the perfect, affordable option for your animal-loving pal.  Buy it straight from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088C4NHRS?ots=1&slotNum=23&imprToken=f6be6bb2-7b10-a400-e05&tag=usatgiftguide-20 

Victrola Vintage Portable Record Player

Collecting vinyl is a whole rigamarole these days.  Purchasing speakers, finding a quality turntable, and repairing old machinery makes this hobby pricey and inconvenient.  

The Victoria Portable Record Player is the ideal gift for your music-loving friend, and it won’t break the bank.  For less than $45, this tiny suitcase opens up to a full-size record player with high-quality speakers.  There’s even a Bluetooth function to connect your iPhone for endless tunes on the go. 

With a retro design and countless colors to choose from, this record player is absolute perfection.  Check them out here: https://victrola.com/collections/suitcase

1MORE Stylish Dual-Dynamic Wired Earbuds    

What is a better present for the holidays than headphones?  Finding an affordable option can be difficult, but these earbuds are perfect without sacrificing quality.  

For the price, the caliber of these earbuds is unparalleled.  With a pink, shimmery finish, these headphones are luxury on a budget.  They come with an in-line microphone to answer calls and a three-button remote for pausing songs and changing volume.  

You can purchase them at Walmart here:  ​​https://www.walmart.com/ip/1MORE-E1025GLD-Stylish-Dual-Dynamic-In-ear-Headphones-Gold/833638123

Nomad Kevlar Universal USB Cable   

A USB cable might not be your first thought for a holiday gift, but it’s a gadget that certainly comes in handy.  

This cable has three separate USB ports for simultaneous charging.  It contains one micro-USB cable with Lightning for the updated iPhones and two USB-C ports for Android and other devices.  The Nomad cable reaches up to five feet and has an exterior fiber sheath for maximum durability, making it essential for extended car rides.  

This long-lasting device is the essential gift for your friend with too many devices.  Grab it at any REI store: ​​ https://www.rei.com/product/173426/nomad-universal-cable-usb-a?cm_mmc=aff_AL-_-40661-_-55097-_-NA&avad=55097_e249f1f31 

Fujifilm Instant Camera

Vintage styles are constantly falling back into fashion but flared jeans aren’t the only trend that’s repeating.  Technology often circulates similarly, and that’s certainly true for the Polaroid camera.  With Fujifilm, you’ll get all the fun of a Polaroid with a modern twist.

These cute, pastel cameras pop out instant images with unprecedented quality.  They come with an automatic flash for perfectly-exposed pictures.  There’s even a selfie-mode function with a built-in mirror to make group photos easy and flawless. 

Buy these terrific party accompaniments here.

Gadgets these days are expensive, and finding the right one can be even more difficult.  This list will have you singing a different tune with powerful tech on a dime.  If you’re running out of ideas, these gifts are perfect for making the holiday season merry and bright.  

In our modern world, so much of our lives revolve around the internet.  It’s what we use for work, pleasure, and everything in between.  With countless hours spent on the world wide web, the line between public and private is often blurred.  

Though the internet is excellent, putting yourself online has its drawbacks.  Sites like Facebook getting sued for selling users’ data is no laughing matter.  So how can we assure ourselves that our virtual information is safe?  

If you’re searching for more secure surfing options, a VPN is the perfect answer.  VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, and its benefits are numerous.  If you’re still on the fence, here are some opportunities a VPN can offer.  

Data Privacy Within Your House 

Is surfing the web potentially dangerous, even on your private Wi-Fi?  While accessing your private connection, you’re still using your ISP: internet service provider.  Whether your provider is Comcast, Verizon, etc., your specific ISP has complete access to your browsing history and data.  Even using an incognito mode doesn’t necessarily keep your service provider out of the loop.  

A VPN is essential because it obscures your IP address.  This IP address, which identifies your computer on the internet, cannot be located in this mode.  Without an identifiable address, ISPs can’t find your data or locate your laptop online. 

Using Public Wi-Fi

If you’re concerned about a data breach, you’re probably skeptical about public Wi-Fi.  While using Wi-Fi is generally safe, utilizing a shared network at a café can lead to vulnerability.

Protection is one significant benefit of a VPN while using the public internet.  It allows for secured internet access without compromising browser history and personal data.  A VPN is a definite must-have for workdays spent in diners and coffee shops.  

Access To International Content

It’s relatively common to be scrolling through Netflix and suddenly realize your favorite show is no longer available.  Though it’s frustrating, these shows are often accessible in other parts of the world.  

How does a VPN aid in international viewing?  The VPN’s primary capability is disguising your location.  An undisclosed geotag allows you to browse from anywhere in the world while keeping your info safe.  Since you’re surfing the web undetected, the streaming possibilities are utterly endless.  

Downloading a VPN is legal in the U.S., so try incorporating one to see what TV and movie options are available.  

Data & Government 

Even in the U.S., lines are often fuzzy between public vs. private data.  Data posted on Instagram or Facebook can quickly get scooped up by profiteers, consensually or not.  Unfortunately, Mark Zuckerberg isn’t the only influential figure who deceptively sells our information.  

Lawsuits regarding brands selling information to government agencies are happening all around us.  VPNs are an added defense for the content you put online privately.  No one wants to feel like online shopping could lead to an involvement with the NSA.  A VPN is an excellent download for those concerned about government surveillance in this day and age.  

No Bandwidth Throttling   

Bandwidth throttling is just a fancy way of saying your internet is slowing down.  Your ISP can decrease your internet speed based on which sites you’re using.  This is just another instance of your service provider getting in the way of your personal computer use.  

Suppose you’re experiencing a lag on specific sites but aren’t sure why, try using a VPN.  When your data is encrypted, you can safely surf the web unmonitored. A VPN assures all sites you access are free of surveillance and its additional streaming problems.  

A demand for privacy leads many internet users to download a VPN.  It’s a simple fix to a plethora of problems and ensures a safer surfing experience.  Whether your intentions are recreational or professional, a VPN is a powerful tool to improve your computer experience.  Access to more TV shows with the relief of extra security is too good of a deal to dismiss.    

Announced back in November, Apple introduced a big device that comes in a tiny package.  This technology is called the M1 chip: the most powerful chip Apple has ever produced.  It’s specifically designed to fit into the smallest Apple products without sacrificing space or memory.  With this chip, Mac implements a game-changing technology that’ll change your computer experience.    

Better graphics and longer battery life are just a few ways Apple is revolutionizing technology.  But is all of this commotion worth the hype?  Let’s take a look at Apple’s newest products and discover the potential benefits of this upgrade.  

What is the M1?

There is more to this tiny chip than meets the eye.  First off, it marks a transition away from the Intel chips Apple products have used for almost 20 years.  It is the first Apple-designed chip to specifically work for Mac products.

Known as a System on a Chip, or an SoC, the M1 combines different technologies into one piece of equipment.  Components like RAM (the computer’s memory), image signal processors, and encoding/decoding engines all exist now on a single, minuscule chip.  

The combination of these technologies increases the speed and efficiency of the computer’s operation.  Instead of accessing data from different memory pools, there is now only one pool to look through.  By limiting the copying of data between systems, the smoother your computer will run.   

What’s Special About M1? 

Since 2006, Apple has had the same core designs for all of its products.  Now, some of your favorite products from Mac hold this powerhouse of a chip.  It includes an 8-core CPU with four high-efficiency cores.  This sounds like a lot of advanced technical jargon, so let me break it down for you.  What this means is that programs requiring a lot of power can operate quickly.   And for activities that need less power, like surfing the web, fewer cores are activated for better battery life preservation.  

These intelligent cores understand when you’re doing demanding tasks that need more power.  Engaging all cores at once, or limiting their power, is what sets this operating system apart.  

Big Sur Mac 

Most of us operating on Apple products use the most recent software, Big Sur.  The M1 Chip works in tandem with this upgrade for faster operation.

Speediness is something the M1 prioritizes.  Waking up your computer from its routine slumber might feel fast enough, but M1 eliminates all of the lag time.  A product with this new chip has an even better time scrolling the internet.  Safari, a web browser known for its quickness, is said to operate 2x faster.  

There are even more possibilities with the App Store than with the previous software.  Apps specifically made for the iPhone and iPad now work seamlessly on computers with M1.  The power of M1’s amplified graphics also enhances apps specific to design and animation.  Apps like Metal or Photoshop look visually advanced compared to the past operating systems.  

M1 Security Features 

Security is a must in this day and age.  With breaches left and right, computer users want to know that their information is safe.  

The M1 has a unique safety feature that is unlike other software.  A T-2 chip is the usual culprit for safety measures and is added to the CPU.  This information is already inside the M1, allowing for hasty reactions to malware and breaches.  

M1 has a built-in tool called Secure Enclave that manages Touch ID amongst other security measures.  This new feature is separated from the computer’s main processor, allowing for an additional protection layer.  

Security Enclave also has a separate processor for the security system.  This might not seem like much, but it’s a key factor in preventing informational compromises.  Since the processor doesn’t share its data with other programs, it’s way safer from attacks.  

Getting excited about a chip seems silly, but the M1 isn’t something to write off.  Its power is unprecedented, with better battery life and less lag time.  As the first fundamental change in Apple hardware since the early 2000s, M1 is a particular upgrade worthy of its hype.    

We all want to be more productive in our day-to-day lives.  Whether it’s organizing time for our hobbies or making our work schedule manageable, time efficiency is imperative.  Fortunately, we’re not alone in our organizational journey.  When it comes to products and apps for Mac, there are a few helpful downloads to maximize productivity.  Here are the must-have apps for Macs that’ll help revamp your efficiency.  

Alfred 

An app with unbelievable intelligence, Alfred compiles information from your searches to understand your behavior.  

Alfred has a search function that uses keywords for ultimate proficiency.  The app learns how you use your computer and sorts your searches based on popularity.  You can also input hotkeys and keywords to make your searches even quicker.

Alfred includes an extensive search history feature.  You’ll be able to find past websites without the hassle of remembering the URLs.  Saving websites is also quick and easy; you can create abbreviations or nicknames for websites to find them faster.  

Sometimes the most challenging part about being efficient is remembering where all of your files are.  Alfred aids in organizing and simplifying your computer’s data, letting you focus on what’s important.  Learn more about Alfred here: https://www.alfredapp.com

Magnet 

Working on a computer is fantastic until all those pesky tabs pile up. Magnet is a simple-fix app for this cumbersome problem.

If you’re like me, you have endless windows and tabs open on your screen. Without the willingness to delete old windows, websites build up unbearably. With Magnet, you are only allowed four windows on the screen at a time.  The windows can be arranged in a few different ways and lock into the corners of the desktop.  This helps focus your attention while keeping your screen free of unnecessary clutter.  

If only having four websites open is an issue, Magnet includes six different windows.  Magnet allows you to use a window for work-related websites while another can be recreational.  

Creating shortcuts is also a key part of Magnet, helping users flip through their displays swiftly.  Keeping four windows per display makes for less searching and a less cluttered computer.  

Check out more about magnet here: https://magnet.crowdcafe.com

HazeOver 

A great accompaniment to Magnet is HazeOver: a simple but effective tool for window mismanagement. 

HazeOver is the premier website for window dimming.  It highlights the window you want to focus on and shrowds your other windows in a darker shadow.  Sometimes it’s the over-stimulation of various programs that makes working harder.  With HazeOver’s differing brightness, you’ll have an easier time focusing on one project at a time.  

Look at more possibilities HazeOver can do here:   https://hazeover.com/ 

OneNote 

Though one of the oldest apps on the list, OneNote is consistently the most clever and accessible app for notetaking.  

Emulating a paper notebook, this app is great for organizing ideas and thoughts by subject.  Tabs are located on the left side of the application for labeling and arranging each section.  

Even the note itself tries to mimic a physical piece of paper.  You can click anywhere on the page to start writing for a more freeform writing experience.  Drawing, doodling, and more are obtainable with this clever feature.  

OneNote is the closest you can get to a real-life notebook.  With many organizational tools included in the interface, it’s worth a download.  Find out more about the app here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-onenote/id410395246 

Obsidian 

This app’s purpose is to restructure your understanding of notetaking. Though not the most intuitive, Obsidian is an organizational powerhouse because of a few key ingredients. 

It’s aesthetically similar to Mac’s Notes app, but with a sleeker, black outline to the page.  A big difference is that you can hyperlink past notes to words and phrases of your current note.  Using Obsidian allows connecting more information for a continuous workflow. You can also set keyboard shortcuts to access files with a simple key push quickly.  

Though a free app, many quality features of Obsidian cost an additional price. You can check out more about this revolutionary app here: https://obsidian.md

1Password 

Remembering all your passwords is no easy feat.  This app is stellar when it comes to saving and creating strong passwords.  

The best feature is its single-click function.  Your passwords can autofill with one click for each website and app, requiring no memory overexertion.  There’s even an option to produce random, strong logins.  The built-in password generator quickly comes up with original passwords for you.  Now there’s no excuse to use the same password over and over again.  

1Password is trusted by businesses around the globe to secure their valuable information.  It’s great for families, too, by making it easy to share logins, credit card info, and more.  Keep your valuables all in one place with this accessible app.  

Find out more about all its innovative functions: https://1password.com

Everyone needs a little help reaching their productivity potential.  There are so many apps available now to focus our attention on; it’s hard to know which ones to choose.  These six productivity and utility apps are some of the best on the market, each serving its function exceptionally.  Download one of these programs and see your productivity inevitably increase.

You won’t be able to find an apartment without internet access these days.  Especially now, reliable internet is more necessary than ever.  Ensuring that access is fast and dependable is something imperative for a Wi-Fi connection.  But what can property owners do to improve this?  

For many renters, purchasing a router is an individual act: an essential part of furnishing the home.  With many people working remotely, landlords and homeowners are starting to do more to provide quality internet.  So I got to ask, is giving reliable internet to renters essential for happy and long-lasting residents?    

The answer, simply, is yes.  In a recent study, 87 percent of people said technology played a huge role when it comes to apartment hunting.  The majority also said that asking about communication services was crucial before signing a lease. In an internet-dominated world, there’s no surprise with these statistics. The question now becomes, what can property owners do to benefit all communication services?    

Improving Wi-Fi and General Connection      

With an established need for internet access, owners can provide their renters with better services in one paramount way. 

Though it is a challenge for older buildings, replacing copper wire with fiber optic cable is a necessary investment. Fiber optic doesn’t rust as fast as copper and fiber’s data transfer is quicker and extends farther. This type of infrastructure change is more dependable for avid internet users. 

If the building is new construction, the architect probably had fiber cables in mind and installed microducts. If not, property owners will need to figure out the best way to filter the cables from the basement to the apartments. A few methods include blowing (for taller, wider apartments), pulling (less costly), or pushing (for shorter distances). The length and width of the building will determine the ideal method for fiber cable installation.   

What Will Property Owners Expect From High-Speed Internet

Once the copper cables are replaced with fiber ones, property owners will notice positive results. A larger tenant pool is expected for a building equipped with better internet services. Tenants are also more likely to stick around longer. With many needing the internet for work as well as a job-searching tool, tenants have an easier route for income and paying rent on time. This is perfect for property owners struggling with short-term residents. 

High-speed internet doesn’t only help the residents but visitors, contractors, and more. Let’s say you hire an electrician, and they need to make a work call, but their service is spotty. Wouldn’t great Wi-Fi be essential to finish the job? 

Anyone who enters your apartment and is expecting a connection will benefit from an upgraded building. In a world where the internet is vital, friends and contractors alike will rejoice in fast, reliable Wi-Fi 

The Future for Renters 

Even after this pandemic, people will continue working from home. One study shows that 70 percent of respondents say their companies have made technology investments for remote working. Even without technological change, bosses and employees know that at-home working can be as efficient as sitting in the office.  This means that future renters will be expecting these types of services when apartment hunting.     

When March 2020 began, property owners and building managers didn’t know what to expect with the influx of work-from-home residents.  This lifestyle change made the need for reliable internet increasingly inescapable.  With the future unknown, owners need to invest in advancements for their buildings.  Hopefully, no pandemic of this caliber will happen again, but owners still have to be prepared for more renters working remotely.   

High-speed internet is no luxury anymore.  It is a fundamental need for all renters and does wonders for ensuring their happiness.  Though some owners might need to spend more dough to renovate, the benefits are endless.  If you’ve been having trouble retaining or attracting renters, upgrading internet access is the best place to start.

Public gyms and workout centers are opening back up, meaning less home exercise.  With more room to do our daily routines, apps and virtual help might appear unnecessary.  But, in 2021, there are many fitness apps to discover that will elevate your workout.  

Apps for tracking progress, getting muscle definition, and improving your mental state are available right at your fingertips.  Try out these health and fitness apps to start your summer off right.   

7 Minute Workout 

This app is definitely for the person on the go.  If you’re in a rush and feel there’s no time to incorporate exercise, 7 Minute Workout’s quick exercises will change your thinking.  

Developed by a physiologist at Johnson & Johnson, this app is designed for people of all athletic and physical abilities.  The workouts are customizable, with the option to mix and match over 72 exercises.  Your formulated workouts also come with time adjustments ranging from 7 to 37 minutes.  Each exercise comes with an instructional video, ensuring you’re prepared to tackle every routine.  

7 Minute Workout is a great place to start if working out feels too time-consuming.  You can download the app in the Apple store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/7-minute-workout/id650762525 

FitOn 

An app with a surprisingly huge following, FitOn is mostly known for its charismatic and well-known trainers. 

This app is an athlete’s dream with a wide selection of exercise classes, from yoga to HIIT.  The instructors are mostly celebrity trainers, which means you’re getting top-tier lessons.  The courses are varying degrees of difficulty, and most exercises don’t require equipment.  It’s no wonder more than five million people have joined this app; with a huge selection of videos and world-class trainers, it’s hard to go wrong.  

Look at their website for more about their trainers and courses: https://fitonapp.com/

Glo 

Glo is a perfect fit for the avid yoga and meditation participant.  Formerly known as YogaGlo, this app has evolved to encompass pilates, mindfulness practices, and more. 

Personalizing your workout is what the app does best.  You’ll be invited to answer a series of questions as a beginner, to make sure you’re getting your ideal fitness routine.  With over 4,000 classes on demand, there are almost infinite courses to choose from.  Just like FitOn, Glo has some of the best yoga and fitness instructors, making this app a worthwhile investment.  

Try out the app free for 7 days here: https://www.glo.com/        

Nike Run Club 

Summer is the season for running. It’s great to exercise in the warm sunlight finally, but sometimes running can get monotonous.  Nike Run Club acts as your personal cheerleader, documenting your successes and helping you achieve your fitness goals.

For the competitive athlete, Nike Run Club is great for establishing training plans.  You’ll be able to assign personal challenges and goals for each run you take.  You can choose the distance or time limit of your exercising, with a 5-minute lunch run option for your busiest days. The app also allows you to connect to other runners, creating a social network of motivated exercisers.  

Log your distance and accept rewards with Nike’s free workout app.  See more details on their website: https://www.nike.com/nrc-app 

Happify 

Staying happy and content is an important factor in our health.  When we’re getting our whole body in shape, our mental state sometimes goes unchecked.  This app strictly focuses on the mind, with wonderful meditation and mindfulness tactics.  

Happify has science-backed activities to lower stress levels and distract the mind.  Alongside these games and exercises, there are guided meditations and even weight training. There are helpful solutions for anyone experiencing a range of mental health issues or solely looking for a fun distraction. 

Whether you’re dealing with intrusive thoughts or needing a physical outlet, Happify has a solution for everyone.  You can see all of the advantages Happify has to offer here: https://www.happify.com

Sleep Cycle 

Sleep: arguably the most essential facet of our health.  Getting a good night’s sleep, though, is undeniably troublesome.  With the sole power of our phone’s microphone, this app is capable of improving our nightly routine.  

Sleep Cycle uses an advanced alarm clock to make sure you’re waking up at the right time.  This incredible technology logs its information through your breathing. The sounds and movements you make show the app how deeply you’re sleeping.  The app then determines when your lightest sleep will be in the morning, allowing for an alarm that eases you into the day.  

Sounds crazy, right?  Though the idea feels like it’s from a science-fiction novel, the app has succeeded in improving many users’ rest.  Sleep Cycle even has an extensive library of sounds and stories, making sure you’re falling asleep fast and easy.  

Check out more about Sleep Cycle here: https://www.sleepcycle.com/how-sleep-cycle-works/ 

As humans, whole-body health can be a tiring endeavor.  With so many incredible apps on the market, incorporating a small workout or a breathing exercise is more than effortless.  Make your fitness and health a priority this summer by downloading one of these beneficial apps.  

Have you heard of Amazon Sidewalk? Many people haven’t, even if they are utilizing a device that may soon automatically use the service. On June 8, Amazon will automatically enroll devices in the Amazon Sidewalk service.

Here are five things to know about the Amazon Sidewalk service.

1. How does Amazon Sidewalk work?

Basically, Amazon takes a small portion of your internet bandwidth and shares it with neighbors so that everyone’s devices have a stronger connection. According to Amazon, “Amazon Sidewalk creates a low-bandwidth network with the help of Sidewalk Bridge devices including select Echo and Ring devices. These Bridge devices share a small portion of your internet bandwidth which is pooled together to provide these services to you and your neighbors. And when more neighbors participate, the network becomes even stronger.”

2. How much of my bandwidth will Amazon Sidewalk use?

Amazon says that the maximum bandwidth of a Sidewalk Bridge to the Sidewalk server is 80Kbps. That’s pretty small (about 1/40th of the bandwidth used to stream a high definition video). Total monthly data used by Sidewalk is capped at 500MB. That’s about 10 minutes of high definition video.

What are the benefits of using Amazon Sidewalk?

For devices like Ring security cameras and door bells or Echo devices, Sidewalk may help them stay connected and work over longer distances. The service is also free.

What if I am concerned about privacy?

Amazon has published a white paper with technical information that may address your privacy concerns. It is a fairly comprehensive document that you can find here: Amazon Sidewalk Privacy and Security Whitepaper.

Can I disable Amazon Sidewalk on my devices?

Disabling Sidewalk is a pretty easy process. Simply open the Alexa app, go to More and select Settings. Then select Account Settings and choose Amazon Sidewalk. You can then turn off Amazon Sidewalk.

Have more questions about Amazon Sidewalk? Visit the Amazon Sidewalk web page for more information.

Speaking as someone who recently updated their ancient phone to the luxurious iPhone 11, I have to say I’m fully impressed by 21st-century innovation.  Even during a pandemic, technology hasn’t ceased transforming.  From the imminent reality of AI to unbelievable green tech, there’s no limit for these engineers.  

At this year’s digital CES, we got a sneak peek at the newest innovations for 2021.  For anyone who isn’t familiar, CES stands for Consumer Electronics Show.  The show brings manufacturers, businesses, developers, and tech pioneers together to showcase consumer tech and discuss relevant topics.   

If you’re like me, you’re not constantly up-to-date in the newest technological trends.  CES had hundreds of advanced products, but I’ve compiled a few of the coolest from the 2021 showcase.  

Samsung Solar-Power Remote

With the Green New Deal at the forefront of American’s mind, climate change is increasingly more of a household conversation.  This means that more companies have started innovating towards a greener planet, which is fantastic.  Samsung is no different with their TV remote that’s solar-charged.

No batteries are necessary for this weightless piece of recycled plastic.  It charges with both indoor and outdoor light and has a USB port if it needs additional charging.  This move proves Samsung is investing in making products that run on green energy.  

The product is not available to the public yet, but you can learn more about the remote here: https://www.engadget.com/samsung-solar-cell-remote-control-ces-2021-201053496.html

Nobi Fall-Sensing Lamp

Senior citizens have been one of the most isolated, at-risk demographics during this pandemic.  With the sensational lamp “Nobi,” you’ll get a device with state-of-the-art detection technology.

Disguised as an ordinary ceiling fan, this fixture monitors movement and can assess various trouble.  Its goal is to create a safer environment for seniors by notifying help when it detects someone has fallen.  The fan is loaded with special sensors to accurately tell the difference between regular movement and a nasty fall.  Fall-sensing is the type of technology we need in the future: helping older citizens feel safe and protected while in their homes.  

Check out more about Nobi here: https://nobi.life/ 

Kohler Touchless Toilet 

I have to admit; I didn’t think there was much we need to change about toilets. But with Kohler’s Touchless Toilet, I’ve come to my senses.  An advanced, autonomous toilet is what the future needs and deserves. 

The bathroom is full of unwanted bacteria, so taking a less hands-on approach to a toilet is a pragmatic decision.  This Touchless Toilet has a “magic handle” that sensors hand movement to flush.  It also comes with its own remote, auto opening and closing, LED lighting, a heating option, and more.  

My toilet fails in comparison to this sentient, high-tech creation.  Though undeniably pricey, this tech might shortly appear in every home’s powder room. 

Check out more about Kohler’s Touchless Toilet here:   https://www.us.kohler.com/us/browse/bathroom-toilets/_/N-2569Z1z11v4x

Cadillac eVTOL 

Isn’t the future supposed to have flying cars?  Well, apparently, a design for one was featured at this year’s CES.  General Motors showcased their wildest invention yet: a Cadillac air taxi.  The Cadillac eVTOL, resembling a flying machine straight from Wakanda, is battery-powered and ready to take flight. 

The Cadillac air taxi is General Motor’s first vehicle with aerial mobility.  The battery power can accelerate the taxi to around 56 mph.  But, it may take years before you’ll be seeing this vehicle on your local freeway.  The company hasn’t released a prototype yet, meaning these plans are only conceptual at the moment.  But with greener, electrical energy advancing, driveable hovercrafts are closer to reality than you might think.  

See the digital prototype here: https://www.motortrend.com/news/cadillac-evol-flying-car-concept-2021-ces/?galleryimageid=2501599

Touchless Video Doorbell 

In the future, doorbells aren’t just obsolete decorations.  This pandemic-inspired contraption uses a camera to make ringing your neighbors even easier.  

This doorbell from Alarm.com, has a video component that notices you when standing outside.  There’s an audio function as well, so you can talk through it while remaining contactless.  Keeping germs off doorbells, and other commonly touched surfaces, are an innovative way to contain an infectious spread.          

Find out more about this no-contact doorbell here: https://alarm.com/

Those are some of the coolest, game-changing technology 2021 has to offer.  Though some products aren’t available yet, the advancement showcased at CES this year is mind-blowing, to say the least.  Even under the threat of a pandemic, humans have made incredible strides in technology.     

Spring is approaching quickly, and everyone is getting ready for outdoor fun.  While spending hours outside is a valuable part of a midwestern spring, many also pivot to tackling spring cleaning. The clutter that builds up over the winter months proves that reorganizing is a necessary chore.  Though our physical spaces can get pretty messy, our computers can get even worse.

If you’re like me, you have folders upon folders on your desktop, with pictures and files scattered about.  Sometimes, it’s easy to forget what your desktop even looks like behind all the miscellaneous JPEGs.  Organizing your computer is an imperative part of spring cleaning, and there are plenty of ways to tidy up and secure all your important devices.

Update Your Apps & Systems

Updating your software has got to be the first part of digital upkeep.  When our apps and devices change so quickly, some of the bugs we experience can occur from operating on older versions.  This step might not come to mind instantly for decluttering, but it has a lot of importance in running your computer smoothly.

One of the biggest reasons for updating software is for protection purposes.  Going through with these updates reduces future risk from malfunction and pesky viruses.  Check all of your devices like phones, apps, smart TVs, computers, and tablets to ensure all devices are updated with the latest fixes and operating systems.

Clean Your Desktop

Now that everything is updated, the cleaning can commence.  For many, the desktop might look like a complete nightmare.  Organizing this might be a laborious feat, but it’s not too difficult to accomplish.

Firstly, it’s time to trash everything on the desktop that’s no longer relevant.  I’m surprised often at the excessive amount of documents I have that I don’t need or want.  Just looking through and purging your saved files can make a considerable difference both digitally and mentally.

A helpful and simple solution for the remaining files is to start sorting them.  Creating folders for projects, personal writing resumes, and other categories help sort your materials in an easily accessible manner.  Color code them or arrange them however you like; just make sure they’re organized in a fashion you understand.

Organize Your Email

Email: the most necessary and anxiety-inducing medium to declutter.  If you’re not one of those diligent email-deleters, then you might need to do some inbox cleaning this spring.

The first task is to delete, delete, delete.  Superfluous spam increases the number of your unread mail to frightening heights.  Deleting old and unwanted messages can unclog your mail and restore some space. Deleting email clutter is a necessary step but won’t initially control the influx of future spam.

To ensure long-lasting organization, set your spam and junk folder to filter out needless mail.  There are many ways to do this, but with Gmail, you can go into settings and list email addresses to block.  These addresses will end up in your spam folder, eliminating the continual annoyance of marketers, bots, and chain emails.

App Subscriptions

I know those TV subscription deals were pretty tempting in quarantine.  But those 7-day free trials, if unchecked, stay around longer than expected.  Now is the perfect time to go back through your subscriptions to make sure you’re not overpaying.

Just like updating an app, managing which apps you’re still paying for is just as important.  Who hasn’t upgraded Duolingo after ditching those Spanish lessons a month later?  There might be a few subscriptions you didn’t even remember purchasing, which is why this task is necessary.  Going through each app on your phone is not only great for decluttering but for releasing pressure on your wallet as well.

When you’re deleting and unsubscribing from various websites, make sure to delete your profiles along with them.  Without removing your profiles, the apps will still retain your information.  Delete all personal info in each app you’re unsubscribing from to keep your confidential data safe.

Passwords

The ultimate protection between your information and someone else is a strong and reliable password.  Websites and apps are now updated to ask for password changes and new protocols, making remembering them difficult.  It’s time, this spring, to get all your passwords in order.

Check through your passwords to see if any lack strength.  Hefty passwords usually contain symbols and numbers in unorthodox sequences, not just a word with many letters.  Make changes to passwords that don’t meet the security criteria you want.

Another safety tip is to use two-step verification.  Often included in email log-ins, you’ll find a separate question or a text message identification for added security.  For special online accounts like banking, it’s important to create layers of protection for your valuables.  Check the privacy settings on any website to enable two-step verification for your most sensitive accounts.

Cleaning is something we might not love to do but is an undeniable part of being human.  When it comes to digital cleaning, it thankfully takes way less physical labor than usual.  Try these steps to secure and organize your online information, readying your mind for a decluttered spring and summer.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and gift-giving is arguably the holiday’s primary focus.  While so many of us are quarantining, it might be hard to trade tangible gifts.  If seeing your partner or family members is more difficult this year, here are some smart, digital ideas for great Valentine’s Day gifts and activities.

Wellness App Subscription

Meditation, yoga, and mindfulness activities are on the rise this year.  Spending many days inside means there’s a lot of time to focus on our introspection.  Practicing mindfulness tasks is easy with various websites and apps to download.

Buying a yearly subscription for an app like Calm or Headspace is an exceptional gift for 2021.  With these programs you can find guided meditations and many soothing playlists to choose from.  Exercises specific to anxiety, depression, anger, and stress are great for when life is a little too overwhelming.  If your partner is having trouble sleeping, meditations and tips for better rest are available on both applications.

Giving the gift of relaxation is unbelievably simple this year.  Provide a loving gesture from afar by including a mindfulness app subscription as your Valentine’s present.

Check out Headspace and Calm here:

https://www.headspace.com/
https://www.calm.com/

Online Scrapbook

Who doesn’t love a commemorative scrapbook from their loved ones?  With many people having access to smartphones, taking pictures and documenting trips is extremely common.  Putting together a slideshow of memories is an easy way to show your deep affection.

Creating a short movie on your iPhone is painless and instantly shareable.  If you go into your Photos app, there’s a section where it has a facial recognition feature.  Clicking on your friend or partner’s icon magically unfolds all of the photos you have of them on your phone.  There’s a play button, too, that creates the slideshow function.  You can edit, add photos, and share the slideshow in seconds with your Valentine.

A digital book of memories is a wonderful, personalized gift for your beloved.  Check out more about slideshow creation on Apple products here:

https://support.apple.com/guide/photos/create-slideshows-phtae8c6d40/mac

Online Cooking Class

Here is a fantastic idea for Valentine’s Day that’s safe and interactive.  If there’s a dish or dessert you’ve always dreamed of making, there are specialized cooking courses all over the internet to peruse.

There are a few websites to checkout for cooking courses online, but Cozymeal has some great Chicago chef options.

Many restaurants in the city have created alternate routes for supporting their business.  Cooking classes are one of the primary ways we can give back to the chefs we cherish in our communities.  On Cozymeal, you can find chefs based on location, cuisine, and difficulty.  Besides using booking websites, checking your favorite restaurant’s website is a stellar way to see if they offer online courses.

This culinary gift will inspire your loved one for months and years to come.  Check out all sorts of classes on the Cozymeal website:

https://www.cozymeal.com/online-cooking-classes

eCards

The complications of scheduling a card drop off or meeting in person are frustrations of the past.  Animated eCards are a safe and silly way to show your appreciation.  There are plenty of options to choose from for eCards from standard and romantic to extremely goofy.

American Greetings is a great site to check out for traditional styles.  They have a wonderful selection of romantic-themed eCards like hearts, flowers, and funny animals.

For a sillier Valentine, the singing and dancing messages on JibJab might be what you’re looking for.  Renowned for their extremely personalized approach, these eCards are great for anyone with a sense of humor.  Crop your friend or partner’s face on the JibJab website and plop them into a choreographed dance number.  For Valentine’s day, there are even Rick Astley, Grease, and Lady Gaga themed greetings.

Look at all the customizable options here:

https://www.jibjab.com/browse/valentines-ecards
https://www.americangreetings.com/cards/ecards/valentines-day/_/N-ezcyxhZ1x91zju   

Digital gifts aren’t the only way to show love and appreciation.  If you’re quarantined with your friends, family, or partner, here are some safe Valentine’s ideas and activities.

Love and adoration are feelings we all share for one another.  Making Valentine’s Day a special event this year can be uncomplicated and safe with these brilliant ideas.  Whether you’re removed from your beloved or cozily at home together, there’s an abundance of possibilities to make the holiday remarkable.  Enjoy these digital romantic ideas and activities and make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Learning doesn’t stop just because we aren’t in the classroom.  With many of us transitioning to remote schooling and working, anything seems possible with the internet at our fingertips.  For those of us who need some extra stimulation, there are plenty of resources for free or cheap learning.  Here’s a list of wonderful apps and websites to peruse if you’re craving to achieve something new.  

Duolingo 

What’s an online learning list without the beloved Duolingo?  This app has a considerable amount of languages to choose from completely free of charge.  

Duolingo utilizes different approaches for holistic language learning.  Though conversing in real life might be hard to do, there are components of the app that can substitute it.  The pronunciation feature incorporates speaking out loud into the lesson.  Alongside grammar, spelling, and conjugation, each course contains diverse educational opportunities.          

One of the best, and arguably most annoying features, of Duolingo, is their reminders.  Anyone who has used the app knows the incessant nature of the Duolingo owl in your texts and emails.  Though it may be frustrating, language proficiency only comes with practice.  The app knows that and will remind you to do your work consistently to meet your goals.  

Find Duolingo on the App Store and check out more here: https://www.duolingo.com

Tynker: Coding For Kids 

Coding has become an essential tool in today’s workforce.  Even if it’s not for your career, learning the ins and outs of coding are exceedingly helpful.  With Tynker, you can start your kids off with an entertaining, interactive app for learning code.  

This award-winning program makes learning sequencing and pattern recognition enjoyable.  The app has even transformed to incorporate kids who are pre-readers.  With 200 challenges and counting, Tynker will never run out of fun exercises to try.  

Coding isn’t the only focus on this learning app.  With the new art and music station, Tynker includes composing music and learning math into its colorful world.  The animation studio is also available, teaching graphics and storytelling together.  

With a strong code focus, Tynker has much to teach to inquisitive children of all ages.       

Download Tynker in the App Store and learn more about the app here: https://www.tynker.com

Star Chart

Star Chart is the free astronomy app for remote planetary exploration.  Using your phone or iPad, you can search and find all sorts of stars and planets.  The universe is entirely viewable with this magnificent application.  

There are a few different ways you can explore with Star Chart.  One example is the ability to point your device into the sky and have the app tell you exactly what stars are there.  It’s almost like having a star GPS in your pocket.  

You can also learn any info about stars, gas giants, and everything else in the universe.  You will be able to master the star placements in the northern and southern hemispheres.  If constellations pique your interest, you can learn and study all 88 of them.  

There’s so much to investigate in space, and Star Chart has it all in one downloadable app.  

Get Star Chart here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/star-chart/id345542655    

Trivia Crack 

When flipping through podcasts isn’t enough, a trivia game can provide just as much obscure information.  Similarly to Trivial Pursuit, Trivia Crack is a six category contest to play alone or with friends.  It’s the perfect app for the avid learner who enjoys endless access to facts.  

The objective of Trivia Crack is to win rounds and earn characters.  The only way you can achieve characters is by answering three questions correctly.  These questions are chosen from the six categories, which include sports, entertainment, and geography.  Once you’ve received a character from all of the categories, you win the round. 

Even in its simplicity, the knowledge available is absolutely endless.  Download this app and challenge your friends to a wide array of fact-based questions.      

Check out more about the rules on the app website: https://www.triviacrack.com

Yousician 

Yousician is an excellent app for those of us with dusty guitars or unused keyboards begging to be played.  With Yousician, you can achieve your quarantine goals of learning an instrument remotely.  

Yousician has intuitive lessons for musicians of all abilities.  There are plenty of specialized tutorials for ukulele, piano, bass, guitar, and singing.  It even incorporates your phone’s microphone feature for real-time critique when practicing.  

Though it’s not free, the trial is accessible for one week with the option to upgrade.  Check out more on the Yousician website: https://yousician.com

The ASL App 

An important language that Duolingo doesn’t offer is American Sign Language.  If this is something you’ve been looking for, The ASL App is available for all cellular devices.  

The main purpose of this program is to teach you conversational ASL.  With a huge selection of phrases to choose from, learning this language has never been quicker.  Over 2,000 expressions are available on the app, with many different signers to study with.  

Explore more about ASL and the app on the website: https://theaslapp.com

Home can be a hard place to discover new things.  As innovative apps emerge each day, there are even more opportunities to find the right educational tool.  From language learning to introductory coding, there are endless resources online.  Try out these free or cheap learning tools to achieve your goals remotely.  

Trying to get the most out of our home in quarantine can be frustrating and extremely limiting. Our abode has become an office, a studio, a meditation space, and a gym all in one. Figuring out how to make enough space for exercise is an issue that’s perplexed even the best problem solvers. If running outside in the winter or being around other people is a cause for concern, https://zentrointernet.com/remote-working-tips/here are some wonderful streaming tips for great indoor fitness.

Dance Church

Dancing is one of my favorite things I’ve been missing in quarantine. Going to see a show or venturing out to a club is something most of us haven’t done since the beginning of the pandemic. Though dancing in the mirror or around your apartment can be a likely alternative, it often misses the viable ambiance. Dance Church can add some structure and energy to your movements with the enthusiasm we’ve been lacking.

Started in 2011, Dance Church offers Wednesday and Sunday classes for people of all dancing levels. Each course has different instructors, with multiple genres and styles to try. COVID doesn’t have to eliminate your weekly dance parties; with the ability to stream the exercises on your computer or TV, you can turn your home into a private club. Self-consciousness is a feeling of the past with this exclusive fitness alternative.

Check out the website and weekly schedule at their website:
https://go.dancechurch.com/

Online Yoga

The simplest form of exercise to do at home has to be yoga. With minimal requirements, this ancient form of movement is our most accessible tool indoors. Though many of us aren’t venturing out to our local Yoga studio, there is an ample amount of instructors around the web to give some comprehensive guidance.

Yoga With Adrienne

The most revered instructor in my household is the calming, charismatic Adrienne. I will often see her face first thing in the morning as I pass the living room, where a roommate or two is streaming her class. With an enormous catalog of videos, it’s easy to see why she’s the primary instructor for many Yoga fans.

Yoga for Adrienne has material for beginners, experienced folks, or particular healing journeys. She has single, short videos available and consecutive playlists for those requiring more structure. There are even specific Yoga instructions for anxiety and stress as well. Yoga with Adrienne has a wide range of topics to choose from, making it a great start for remote exercise.

Check out her videos here:
https://www.youtube.com/c/yogawithadriene/videos?view=0&sort=p&flow=grid

Good Body Feel

If you’re looking for fitness that’s centered around internal feeling and body awareness, Good Body Feel is the right place to start. A Canadian studio founded by Robin Lacambra, their practices involve connecting Yoga, Pilates, and mindfulness.

Tapping into their new virtual studio, viewers can experience multiple instructors sharing guided practices involving interconnectedness and care. A focus on trauma, anti-oppression, and community involves a unique perspective from most Yoga classes. With daily courses operating on a sliding scale, Good Body Feel is an unmatched workout for both inner and outer contemplations.

Find instructors and courses at their website: https://www.goodbodyfeel.com/

Popsugar Fitness

Popsugar Fitness is just as fun as the name implies. Streaming on the reliable Youtube, these free fitness classes explore an extensive range of techniques and workouts.
If you’ve been struggling maintaining the fitness aspects of your normal life, taking a look through Popsugar’s catalog might inspire you to get back on track. Ab workouts, dance classes, and cardio are just a few of the specific classes you can choose from. Reminiscent of vintage workout tapes, these charismatic instructors remind us of the fun in routine exercising.

If you’re pursuing a personal fitness plan or just browsing for something new, Popsugar has plenty videos to peruse for your indoor workouts.

You can check out their Youtube page with this link: https://www.youtube.com/c/POPSUGARFitness/videos

Daily Burn 365

Needing some structure in your fitness routine? Daily Burn 365 has some solutions to get you off the couch and working out.

Daily Burn 365’s most enticing program is their daily, thirty minute live-streamed course. Every morning at nine, you’ll have the opportunity to start the day with a personal workout in the comfort of your home. If the early morning doesn’t suit your schedule, each course becomes available on their website for the remainder of the day.

Their goal is to get us quarantined folk back into exercising and a healthy lifestyle. Each course also includes modification options, in case the workouts are too simple or frustrating. Though motivation can become harder as we stumble into winter, Daily Burn 365 offers a steady solution for your daily fitness needs.

Check out their website here:
https://dailyburn.com/

Fitness can be hard to incorporate into our regular schedules, let alone in the midst of a pandemic. Youtube and free trials are available, though, for at-home approaches to reestablishing cardio and exercise. I know working up a sweat inside your apartment might not be your first option, but there’s plenty of enticing programs to change your mindset. Exercising at home can be fun and worth it with a little bit of time and the perfect virtual option.

Schools are opening across the country for the fall semester.  Though many kids are going back to regular methods of learning, virtual practices are being utilized as well with both “positive and adverse impacts”.

You might feel nervous for kids to have additional screen time, but learning online can be easy, fun, and educational.  With so many options to choose from, it might feel impossible to find the right remote tactics.  From online workshops to interactive games, Below is a list to help keep kids engaged both in and out of school hours.

Class Dojo

Class Dojo is an app that feels the most like in-person learning.  Its basic functions provide seamless communication between parents, students, and teachers.  With learning existing outside of normative structures, Class Dojo can provide some organizational tools to keep everyone on the same page.

The app has a couple of features to aid teachers and parents with their kids’ work ethic and concentration.  There are timer functions to delegate how much time is devoted to certain activities and noise meters to control outside distractions.  Keeping all the child’s priorities in line is hard even without a pandemic, so Class Dojo makes it easier to organize their work and check on their studies. Visit Class Dojo.

Outschool

Similar to Class Dojo, Outschool provides an educational extension to your kid’s school curriculum.  There are a variety of classes to choose from, with a focus on small-group learning.

Courses of all interests can be found by scrolling through Outschool’s website.  If you’ve got a tech-savvy adolescent, there are classes on game and web design.  For the literary inclined, there are creative writing courses ready to be explored.  With so many of us relegated to learning at home, Outschool makes it easy by having an extensive catalog of enticing classes for all students K-12. Visit Outschool.

Grace and Friends Birthday Cafe

Learning doesn’t always have to be dry and information-heavy.  Sometimes we learn things by being provided with something more interactive. Take Grace and Friends Birthday Cafe: a simplistic game that has the power of teaching subitizing and quantitatives for even the most stubborn among us.

A repetitive structure and birthday theme make this math game perfect for your beginner mathematician.  With multiple levels, your child will be learning under the guise of fun and competition.  Get an early jump on subitizing with this game and see your child’s skills drastically improve. Visit Grace and Friends Birthday Cafe.

Math Science Music

For our teenagers, learning remotely often has a deficiency in arts education.  Woodworking and band rehearsal have tremendous limits when it’s necessary to maintain social distancing.  Luckily, Math Science Music provides some solutions to interdisciplinary learning when it comes to music-making.

This website contains lesson plans, interactive functions, and games to practice math and science through music.  Providing teachers with a free toolkit on the site, you can keep your students engaged with topics ranging from geometry to coding.  With a focus on creating and understanding music, students of all ages can combine their academic interests into making percussion loops and practicing music theory. Visit Math Science Music.

Fun Brain

If you’re looking for a website that hosts games for all different subjects, then Fun Brain is the place to go.  Since 1997, Fun Brain has had a myriad of educational games for K-8 students.

As a young kid, I was overly obsessed with marine biology and anything aquatic.  The coral reef simulation on the website is a perfect look into these diverse ecosystems.  You can pick and choose various animals and plants to see how they interact with each other, discovering their intricate world and all the features that comprise our wondrous reefs.

If biology isn’t a topic of interest, there’s reading, writing, and educational videos to get your kid engaged.  Comics to peruse are available on the site, as well as scientific vlogs and cartoons.  There is so much to explore on Fun Brain, it might even be impossible to get your kids off the site. Visit Fun Brain.

Wordscapes

Crossword lovers, here’s an excellent alternative for you.  The app is called Wordscapes and it combines problem solving and vocabulary in this sophisticated puzzle game.

For competitors of all ages, this app twists a normal crossword into a tetris-esque contest.  The player starts with a few letters with only a couple intersecting rows.  The goal is to use the three letters assigned to make different words for all of the rows available.  As the rows and letters increase, the harder it is to conjure up new words and make them fit on the board.  The simplistic concept is great for anyone with an adoration for puzzle solving. Visit Wordscapes.

Coco – Educational Games

Similar to some of the other sites and apps I included above, Coco is a collection of activities for kids to enjoy.  Focusing on memorization techniques, this app has plenty of educational games for when your child needs a mental break from their classes.

With options to play by yourself, multiplayer, or split-screen, Coco has the potential to engage anyone and enhance attention and memory.  Popular games like ColorMind focus on memorizing color combinations with increasing complexity.  Other games like Silly Sequence are more rapid-fire, where letters and numbers appear on the screen with the goal of catching the duplicates.

Simply put, Coco has a range of games to make free time an opportunity for engaging our minds and memory. Visit Coco Educational Games.

Final Thoughts

Staying home and learning remotely doesn’t mean losing out on education.  In fact, the accessibility of the internet has made education more convenient and creative.  Whether your kid needs assistance in the classroom or wants to engage in stimulating puzzles, there are endless possibilities to explore.  Brushing up on math or learning a skill or two has never been easier with this list of wonderful activities for kids of all ages.

With the days of a “new normal” afoot, our daily lives are quickly changing. We’ve had to adjust from office life and conference room meetings to keeping your cats off the keyboard when you’re on a video call. Let’s face it, you’ve been looking at the same four walls for the past six months now…and you’re starting to lose it! Here are FIVE things that I have done to keep level headed and stay productive.

Make Sure to Take Breaks

It seems like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to get caught up in work when you wake up and roll out of bed straight to your laptop. Another factor is that you may feel that taking a break shows that you’re not hardworking while remote. Alan Kohll put it well in saying “Chaining yourself to a desk or scarfing down your lunch in your cubicle isn’t a recipe for success – it’s a recipe for disaster.” Every hour or so take a short break, go outside, stretch, watch that funny video you’ve been dying to watch, anything but work.

Stop Working At a Set Time

Just like rolling out of bed straight to the laptop, its just as easy to stay on your laptop until the wee hours of the night. Set a time every day where the laptop closes, work stops, and the fun begins! Don’t neglect yourself, you need time to wind down and re-energize for the next day. Make plans and set appointments that will make you close down your workstation and head out the door.

Keep It Moving

There they are, the same walls you’ve been looking at day and night. Nothing says stuck in a loop like having the same day over and over again. Its time to change things up, now pick up that laptop and bring it into a different room! Changing my scenery helps me keep things fresh, I’ll grab my laptop and work in the basement, living room, or even outside. Another way to keep it moving would be to invest in a standing desk. Now if you’re like me and consider yourself a DIY’er, I would recommend this video from LRN2DIY on YouTube 

Optimize Your Internet Connection

Nothing makes you want to throw your laptop out of the window more than a poor internet connection. Whether if its that your WiFi doesn’t reach a certain area or your connection is lost, make sure your equipment is up to date. I’d personally recommend the Unifi Amplifi line. You can have anything from a simple router to an at-home mesh WiFi network. If you have some gamers at home as well, the Netgear Nighthawk line is a fantastic option to ensure a strong WiFi connection.

Add Entertainment to the Day

As we’re working remote, the social water cooler chitchat is disappearing. You don’t realize how important your social interactions with your coworkers were until they have come to a halt. Even though we’re not in the same building anymore, try to set up calls to collaborate with team members, get their input, or even set up a happy hour call at the end of the day! As most companies are using messaging software, start up a channel for fun topics. As an idea, a pets chat….who doesn’t want to see everyone’s pets during a stressful day!?

There are a multitude of ways we manage our stress and anxiety levels on a daily basis. For many, relief is attributed to a variety of outdoor exercises. Yoga is known to help with “exaggerated stress responses” alongside team sports and other physical activities. Talk-therapy and psychiatry are common as well, with a combination of these tactics effectively reducing our overwhelming feelings. For the busybodies and workaholics, taking hours out of the day to deal with stress might be too time-consuming. With this frequent problem, tactics online for dealing with unresolved anxiety have risen to popularity. Guided meditations and virtual journaling are now extremely accessible with the availability of smartphones. With a little direction, you can quickly transform your anxious feelings with these downloadable apps.

Moodpath

One of the most confusing parts of feeling overwhelming anxiety is the random bombardment of unnecessary thought. When these thoughts become too rampant, Moodpath is a great tool to organize and process those feelings without the help of a therapist.

Moodpath offers simple questions revolving around your emotional state to begin cataloging your anxiety. It begins with questions about your sleep, performance, inner frustrations, and temperament. Alongside the initial questioning, the app will also ask you about your general feelings: confident, enthusiastic, happy, empty, to name a few. With a calendar and journal feature in the app, you’ll be able to log your interiority every day and start to understand your stress and its causes.

Learn more about Moodpath at https://mymoodpath.com/en/.

Daylio

If journaling is one of your main tools for decompressing, then this app will make your relief even easier. With Daylio, you will be able to set reminders, create goals, and track your mood for a holistic writing experience.

In this journaling application, your entries don’t have to be lengthy or laborious. Daylio uses a combination of emoji expressions and activity selections to create a visual writing experience. You can add your own activities during the day and write how each event made you feel, creating a sequential moodboard. You’ll also be able to create your own distinguishable icons to identify each of your activities and journal entries. If getting back into journaling during quarantine has been difficult, Daylio will make the transition a whole lot simpler.

Learn more about Daylio at https://daylio.webflow.io/.

Headspace

Meditating has become one of the most popular ways to relieve our minds in quarantine. It doesn’t require much except for a place to sit. Headspace provides guided meditation for all kinds of purposes, allowing you to meditate wherever you are in the world.

For different relationships, moods, or tribulations, Headspace has options for most common predicaments. With the packs that the app provides, you can choose from a variety of meditations tailored to your feelings. For those dealing with grief and regret to those of us who simply need a confidence boost, the possibilities are almost endless. Updating consistently with new meditations, Headspace is definitely the best app for controlling stress through at-home mindfulness.

Learn more about Headspace at https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app.

Runkeeper

For those of us who need to fight the itch of anxiety by exercising, Runkeeper will wonderfully assist you. Giving runners an incentive to get out into the fresh air, this app includes many features to make exercising more intentional.

Runkeeper works to aid our stress-relieving activities, with features that track your own goals and improvement. Whether it’s walking, biking, or even snowboarding, you can track your mileage and set limits for yourself in whatever sport you choose. If you’re practicing in a marathon, there are all types of schedules you can use to help meet your goals. With the scheduling side handled, you’ll spend more time outdoors successfully flushing out the stress of your workweek.

Learn more about Runkeeper at https://runkeeper.com/cms/.

Viridi

Sometimes, you might need a mindless distraction to keep the anxiety at bay. Instead of cataloging and delving into the cause of your stress, a playful game can also help calm your stimulated mind. Viridi is an app revolving around growing plants that facilitates a serene world for the user.

While seemingly pointless, a need for distraction makes Viridi a key app for stress relief. Tranquil, ephemeral music flows as you plant each succulent. The pot, rotating slowly in a soft pink landscape, holds the array of plants you must attend to. With simple, menial tasks at its basis, Viridi provides a pleasant experience to divert the mind from chaos. For anyone who finds gardening a peaceful experience, this app is definitely worth checking out.

Learn more about Viridi at http://www.icewatergames.com/viridi.

Calm

The top-rated app of 2017, Calm is a meditation and sleep stories app that offers many functions for stress and anxiety relief.

One of the most widely used features in Calm is the breathing exercises. With the ability to pick from one minute to infinity, the screen appears with instructions for breathing in and breathing out. The circle on the screen expands and collapses, imitating our own lungs as we inhale and exhale. Seems simple, right? It might appear cumbersome, but concentrated breathing is one of Calm’s most helpful tactics to mitigate an anxiety attack.

Alongside the breathwork, Calm has meditation and calming music choices for restful thinking and better sleep. The mental fitness option comes with instructions on how to meditate with personal instructors. For sleep, there are countless playlists and mixes from rain sounds to light ambient music. If tunes are too chaotic, there’s also a plethora of sleep stories that will surely aid in your rest.

Learn more about Calm at https://www.calm.com/

Splashy

For regaining focus, an app like Splashy can help center your mind. It’s a game with a simple task, but ultimately rewarding for those of us who need a diversion from our anxieties.

Splashy is a game that requires fierce concentration. All you need to do is tap the ball on the screen, move it from platform to platform, and get it to the finish line. With a feasible objective, this game can be a triumphant distraction from all outside stresses. You’ll have a great time with this recreational app, concentrating too vigilantly to remember your daily frustrations.

Learn more about Splashy at https://apps.apple.com/us/app/splashy/id1319500389

Leaving the house to get therapeutic treatment is a method of the past. Now with calming, downloadable apps, relieving anxiety can be easy and free. Whether it’s gaming, organizing, or meditating, everyone has a different practice for eliminating stress. Hopefully, this list will provide a few great options to manage your day to day life and improve your relaxation.