First dual-screen laptop: Asus Zenbook Pro Duo

Dual-screen laptops James P. DeVellis

For a while now, there have been versions of laptops that tried to add a screen component in the keyboard area. The most notable examples of this is the Apple MacBook Pro’s touch bar, as well as the Asus ZenBook Pro’s LCD touch pad. While both iterations have their uses, they weren’t in any way game changing features. That is until Asus announced their concept for the Asus Zenbook Pro Duo. James P. DeVellis.

Image source: yugatech.com

The Asus Zenbook Pro Duo uses the upper half of the keyboard area with an OLED panel they call SCREENPAD™ PLUS. This full 14” touchscreen has a resolution of 3840x1100 and supports up to four-finger smart gestures, as well as a touch pen. The main screen is a full 15.6” OLED display with extremely thin bezels. James P. DeVellis

The unit is a powerhouse in terms of its internals. It rocks an Intel Core i9-9980HK processor with a 2.4GHz octa-core with Turbo Boost. For its graphics card, it uses an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060. As for its memory, the highest spec reaches up to 32GB RAM. In terms of size, this laptop is by no means a light unit with a weight of 5.5 pounds. James P. DeVellis.

Image source: yugatech.com

The Asus Zenbook Pro Duo is geared toward content creators who can embrace the secondary screen. It can handle rigorous tasks such as video editing with ease. It can also be used by gamers with its gaming-grade graphics. James P. DeVellis.

There are only a few drawbacks to this design. Firstly, the touchpad is located to the right where the number pad is supposed to be. The typing experience can also seem awkward at the start. Its battery is also not the best. Still, the Asus Zenbook Pro Duo can easily replace most workstations in the market today. James P. DeVellis

Best 5G compatible smartphones coming this 2019

5G Tech in Smartphones James P. DeVellis

Image source: t3.com

With reports of telco brands rolling out 5G services, smartphone manufacturers rush to come out with phones that are compatible with the new technology. It’s a race to create amazing phones with stellar features which can also maximize 5G services. 5G technology can reach speeds of up to 100 gigabits per second. But for smartphones, we are looking at 15% – 50% improvement in internet speed. In the right conditions, 5G can allow users to download 4K movies in minutes. To know which unit to buy, here are some of the best 5G compatible smartphones released or coming out this 2019. James P. DeVellis.

Huawei Mate X
The Mate X is more known for its folding design rather than its 5G capability. Its amazing 8-inch display is unheard of, as well as its base price of $2,500. It’s a phone geared toward those who need the extra space for multi-tasking, or those who need to view multi-media files but don’t want the bulkiness of a tablet or a laptop. James P. DeVellis

Image source: t3.com

LG V50 THINQ
What makes the V50 THINQ unique is that it can turn from a regular smart phone to a foldable one in seconds thanks to its detachable secondary display. It packs a Snapdragon 855 processor, triple lens camera, and a great QHD+OLED display. One key factor that makes this phone a great choice is its price. For a flagship phone, it only costs a little over $1,000. James P. DeVellis.

Samsung Galaxy Note 10
The Note series is always anticipated by the tech industry. Rumored to have a superfast updated UFS 3.0 storage technology, loads of RAM, and the best camera today, expect this titan to come out swinging later this year. James P. DeVellis.

5G will eventually roll out to mid-tier phones. But for now, people owning these flagship 5G compatible phones can have all the fun and internet speeds in the world. James P. DeVellis

Expert tips on choosing the right phone for you

My name is James P DeVellis. I’ve had a love affair with technology for most of my life. I’ve kept track of all the mobile phones and smartphones I’ve owned throughout the years, and I’ve written reviews for most of them.

Image source: digitaltrends.com

 However, when I get to talk to my friends, especially those who plan to buy new smartphones, I’m astounded by the fact that they have no idea what to get. Some of them even confess to regretting their purchases.

Because of this, I’ve put together a few questions you should ask yourself when deciding to buy a smartphone. Think of it as a guide of sorts.

Image source: thornleyfallis.com

Question #1: Do I really need a new phone?

This question is often overlooked because people prioritize wants over needs. Smartphones, especially the good ones, aren’t cheap and if you’re going to invest in them, make sure you need it and your old one is no longer serving your needs.

Question #2: What do I need from a phone?

A more obvious question than the first one, this question makes you think of the phone’s functionality. How will it help you in your daily life? Aside from calling and texting and going online, what else do you need from a phone?

Question #3: How much am I willing to spend?

Set a budget well within your means. This is a James P DeVellis rule of thumb. Don’t go overboard because just like any piece of technology, new smartphone models come out every few months or so. A lot of my friends who’ve regretted their purchase do so because they feel they spent too much.

James P. DeVellis is an IT consultant who reviews gadgets and likes to share tech-related news. He uses his willingness to test run programs, platforms, and gadgets by reviewing them in his own tech blog. To read more articles like this, visit this page . 

Some rumors and updates on Blizzard’s much-anticipated Diablo 4

Fans of the hack-and-slack, role-playing Diabl franchise are eagerly awaiting the release of the game’s fourth iteration. Unfortunately, that isn’t coming anytime soon, even as Diablo 3 has essentially gone into maintenance mode and settled for seasonal boosts. IT professional and tech reviewer James P. DeVellis has some updates on the highly anticipated game hereunder.

Image source: bgr.com

The game’s developer Blizzard has been very secretive about any info regarding its Diablo series. But during last year’s Blizzcon, loyal followers were shocked by the unexpected announcement that the series is instead going mobile. That reveal of Diablo Immortal was treated as laughable, betraying Blizzard’s renowned, long-running loyalty to the PC.

But Blizzard understands the huge disappointment the mobile game has caused its die-hard fans and has since made it crystal-clear that Diablo 4 is currently being developed. However, historically speaking, it may take much time before we can get our hands on the new game. Blizzard released Diablo 3 on June 2012, a good 12 years since its predecessor came out in 2000.

Image source: dailystar.co.uk

Still, the huge backlash from last year’s fiasco is good reason for Blizzard to release Diablo 4 sooner. While even a projected date is still inexistent, there have been talks that the new take will showcase an open-world system, also allowing for a more robust multiplayer mode and improved class systems. There are rumors too that PvP will a central come-on to the game this time around, adds James P. DeVellis.

James P. DeVellis works for a tech company as an IT consultant. His job requires him to test new programs and apps. And as a hobby, he loves reviewing the newest gadgets. For related posts, visit this blog.

Woo-sahhh: Apps to help you relax

I’m James P. DeVellis, and I’m heavy into technology. I love checking out the newest gadgets and apps in town. For this blog, I’ll be featuring a few apps for all you heroes who work your butts off in your jobs. I know how stressful it can be, which is why I’ll be sharing some apps that can help you relax.

Image source: Pexels.com

Image source: Pexels.com

Relax Melodies: Relax Melodies is exactly what its name suggests it is – an app that provides you a massive selection of relaxing tracks that can help you de-stress. What’s more is that you can set an alarm in case you end up too relax, you doze off. It also comes with volume control.

Calm: A James P. DeVellis favorite, Calm is incredibly easy to use. Even navigating the app through its interface is designed to be hassle-free and relaxing. Calm provides a number of virtual meditation sessions that range from 3 to 25 minutes. The app both relaxes and creates an atmosphere of positivity for users. There are meditations that focus on helping a person regain self-esteem, which is only one of the many positive effects promoted by the app.

Breathe2Relax: Breathe2Relax is an app made for those who are used to going through life in blinding speed. These are the people who are simply too busy to stop. Breathe2Relax provides a simple method of breathing through your diaphragm, which can be -- trust me -- incredibly calming.

Hello, my name is James P. DeVellis. I work in one of the largest tech companies in the world. The tech industry is not the easiest industry to work in, but it has its perks. I get to know more about the latest technology innovations. For more insightful reads on technology and gadgets, visit this page.

The best apps for planning your next vacation

With today’s smartphone technology constantly improving, there are many apps that we could download to make living a little bit easier. This also applies in traveling, as there is a wide selection of travel apps that can aid travelers. Tech expert James P. DeVellis lists down some of the best apps that you can download if you are planning a vacation soon.

Image source: nomadicmatt.com

LoungeBuddy: When you travel with more than one flight, there will be instances that you will have to wait for hours before the next one. LoungeBuddy will help you find lounges you can access in any airport, including the ones that don’t require membership. It has a slick, easy-to-use interface that also lets you know which lounges can sell day passes.


AirHelp: Overbooked or delayed flights can happen any time when you travel, and this app helps in those cases. James P. Devellis says that this app can help you claim compensation for your flight delay or overbooked flights. It even has a referral bonus if there’s anyone else in your flight that uses the same app.

Image source: nomadicmatt.com

Hostelworld: This accommodation booking app continues to be one of the best ones out there because of its efficiency in descriptions, filters, and prices. It has an attractive, user-friendly interface with a full screen interactive map that lets you know the best and most affordable places to stay in the area you are traveling to.



James P. DeVellis works for huge tech company and gets a lot of IT-related questions. He wishes to share his wide knowledge by starting his own social media platform and blogs centered on tech. For more articles and reviews on gadgets, visit this page . 

Online self-care: Prioritize your mental and emotional health with these tips

Image source: Pexels.com

These days, we live more convenient lives because of the internet and all its perks. However, too much of a good thing can be destructive. In this age where we can see what’s happening in the world and in our circle of friends online, it’s so easy to assume that the snippets of reality we see in our timelines make up the whole story. And since social media platforms have given everyone a voice, it’s so easy to offend and defend our actions. On top of being James P. DeVellis, IT consultant and online person, I’m also an advocate of online self-care. Let me share with you some tips to prioritize your mental and emotional health in this highly connected world:

Remember that social media is a tool—your life does not depend on it

Social media was designed to improve how we communicate with others whether in our personal relationships and other endeavors. Unfortunately, people have let their online lives take over their real ones. When you feel like you can’t go a day without social media and you mindlessly scroll through your timelines, it’s time for a change.

Focus on your life offline

Image source: Pexels.com

If you can communicate better with people when you’re online, it might also be good to have some quality face-to-face time. I often tell my internet friends that there’s more to James P. DeVellis than what they see on their feed. There are days when you need to live your without the intention of sharing about it online. When you start feeling stressed out, angry, jealous, or unnecessarily guilty, perhaps it’s time to log out of your accounts. This might be hard at first but after a few days, you’ll realize that there’s so much to do and see in the real world.

James P. DeVellis is an IT consultant, techie, and industry insider. He’s sharing the latest innovations on this space.

Best Google Chrome extensions to enhance your web experience

Google Chrome is the world’s leading internet browser. Its share of the worldwide internet browser market is at 65.21% with billions using it every day. While there are people who simply use Google Chrome as a web browser, there are those whose lives revolve around the browser. These are people who work online or spend a significant amount of time a day browsing the internet. To help them make the most of Chrome, they often use extensions to make their work easier or to enhance their browsing experience. If you’re interested in trying out these cool extensions, here are some that can improve your web experience.

Image source: techradar.com

LastPass, your login pal
Security is always necessary for people with a lot of web presence. However, different websites and apps may require different sets of passwords. Other require alphanumeric passwords, others require special letters, capital letters, and so on. LastPass helps you by creating a different strong password for each site and filling out logins automatically. All you need to remember is one master password for this extension.

Image source: techradar.com

Lazarus, securing your forms
Every now and then, we need to fill in a form online. But sometimes, we miss out one detail and we’d be forced to re-enter everything from scratch. Lazarus: Form Recovery stores all the information you type in forms and lets you use details from your history. These information can be encrypted to make sure your personal data remains safe.

Tab Wrangler, cleaning up your tabs
Some people open a lot of browsers and keep them open until navigating between tabs becomes virtually impossible. Tab Wrangler automatically closes tabs that haven’t been opened or used in a period of time.

Hello, my name is James P. DeVellis. I’ve always been fascinated with innovation, so it was my dream job to work in the tech industry. I’ll post news and tips about tech and gadgets on this page so make sure to follow. So, I decided to blog about it. For more reads on technology, visit thiswebsite.

What’s the Windows Insider program?

Image source: Insider.Windows.com 

Consider it a beta project, a home to some 10 million Windows fans, professionals, and enthusiasts who want to be part of building the future of Windows 10.  Windows Insider is an open software testing program by Microsoft that lets users who own a valid Windows 10 or Windows Server 2016 license to register for pre-release builds of the operating system, which were formerly available only to software developers.

Image source: Pixabay.com 

The program was launched for the technically able ones who want to test out new developer features on pre-release software and builds.  This is done to collect low-level diagnostics feedback that will help identify, probe, mitigate, and enhance the OS, in direct coordination with Microsoft Engineers in a properly structured communication channel.

Windows Insider features three levels or so-called “rings”: Fast, Slow, and Release Preview rings.  What needs to be noted is that since it’s a beta program, a build that gets released can sometimes spell trouble.  Your PC may become less stable, and the program can require a lot of bandwidth given that a new build is usually released once a week.

At any rate, many are keen on becoming a part of the program since it offers the privilege of testing new features first, or before they officially roll out to the public.  It's part of a large-scale initiative to shape the next version of Windows, where feedback about bugs, suggestions, or personal ideas are welcome and might even be implemented by Microsoft.  Finally, it fosters a sense of community among like-minded – or Windows-minded – individuals. 

James P. DeVellis is an IT consultant. These days he is working for a tech company and gets to test new programs and apps as part of his job. Learn more on this page.

Clear your mind with these relaxation apps

Going through stress and anxiety can be overwhelming especially for adults who have lots of responsibilities that they need to face each day.  Instead of seeking outside help, sometimes we end up brushing off the negativity, which can make it worse.  Thankfully, the smartphone is no longer just a tool for productivity and entertainment.  It can now be used to help a person relax and meditate.  Below are some of my favorite relaxation apps:

Image source: Pexels.com

Calm
This app is probably one of the most popular relaxation apps for smartphone users.  The app's easy to navigate and calming interface encourages you to take a step back.  With sessions that can last from 3 to 25 minutes, users will be able to find guided meditations that will help them build not just their inner peace but also self-esteem and positivity.  Some meditations also encourage mindfulness and forgiveness.  Relax and recharge on your own time through this app.

Image source: Pexels.com

Relax Melodies
If you need a soundtrack to a peaceful sleep, this app will do the job for you.  You can choose from a wide selection of tracks and create a playlist.  You can adjust the volume and set up alarms so that you can wake up on time, relaxed and refreshed.

Breathe2Relax
Sometimes we're just too busy to take a step back and breathe.   Thankfully there's a breathing app like Breathe2Relax these days.  Through diaphragmatic breathing, users will be able to learn how to breathe and release their stress.  I'm sure you'll feel the calming effects after a few minutes of doing their breathing exercises.
Use your smartphone to get rid of what's weighing you down.  Meditate and breathe.  You deserve to experience peace.

  James P. DeVellis is an IT consultant, techie, and industry insider. He’s sharing the latest innovations on this space.

Apps for a better travel or vacation experience

Traveling to a new country is always exciting, but often, confusing.  Many questions and setbacks will arise along the way.  But thanks to travel-centric mobile apps that could be downloaded to your smartphone, you can get any information you want any time you need it.  Whether you’re looking for expert tips, insights, recommendations, or the best accommodations, these apps will deliver.

Image source: atoztravel.net 

For flights: FlightTrack Pro --  This app covers more than 3,000 airports and 1,400 airlines and lets you manage local and international flights.  You can see real-time updates, push flight alerts, and weather-related delays.

For accommodation: Airbnb --  Airbnb remains the undisputed service for accommodation options all over the world.  From tents to lush villas, Airbnb’s wide range of selection covers all preferences.  You’ll be surprised at how cheap the accommodation rates are.

Image source: pcmag.com

For food: Zomato --  Zomato is a user-generated food rating app that shows reviews for restaurants in most cities across the globe.  Users upload photos of the food that’s actually presented, setting realistic expectations and prices.  In some regions, Zomato teams up with hotels and hostels so you can have food delivered if you’re too tired to wander out.

Miscellaneous --  There’s literally an app for every need, including all your travel essentials.  Need an app to help you pack? Download PackPoint.  Searching for WiFi hotspots in an unfamiliar area? Get WiFi Map.  Other helpful apps are AccuWeather (weather reports), SitOrSquat (public bathroom locator), CityMapper (digital mapping with transit features), and XE Currency (real-time currency converter).

James P. DeVellis is an IT consultant who reviews gadgets and shares tech-related news. He uses his willingness to test-run programs, platforms, and gadgets by reviewing them on his tech blog. To keep up with James’s tech reviews and insights, click here.

Camera Setup And Other Essentials For Vlogging: a Beginner’s Guide

To start vlogging on YouTube is an exciting prospect. It can be fun, it can showcase one’s interests and expertise, and it can bring in profits down the road. But are you equipped with the basic setup and other essentials for this endeavor? Here’s a quick guide to making YouTube videos and rock a vlogging career.

Image source: SewingReport.com  

Camera

Make no mistake about it: a smartphone would do just fine and boasts a great camera to capture video and a microphone to record sound. To step up a little, one can choose a powerful small camera with front-facing display, a quality mic built, and some stuff like wide-angle capability. There’s no need to break the bank when choosing a DSLR or point and shoot camera, but keep a few features in mind, such as an audio input for your external mic.

Audio capture

A reliable external mic comes in handy if you find that sound is important (and it is). A shotgun mic can be attached to the hot shot of the camera to quickly capture high-quality sound.

Lighting

Harness natural light by setting up near a window or where you can get some of that sunlight for the production. A reflector will fill in undesirable shadows. As the sun can be difficult to control, LED lights can be attached to the camera or have their own stands as a rich addition to the beginner’s setup.

Image source: MakeUseOf.com

Vlogging niche or industry

Choose a niche, industry, or topic that helps you focus your content on areas you’re most passionate about. Passion will drive this activity for the most part, and will offer an endless supply of ideas and innovative thinking. Identify this niche in order to create a sustainable YouTube channel and actually have fun while doing it.

James P DeVellis is an IT consultant. On most days, I get to test and try programs, platforms, and gadgets before they are presented to the public. Learn more on this page.

Upcoming Must-Play Games On The PS4

Image source: polygon.com

Even before the many upcoming games unveiled by Sony in the recent E3, 2018 has already given us a bunch of solid and addicting games for the PS4. These games include Ni No Kuni 2: The Revenant Kingdom and the highly acclaimed God of War III, which is destined to be the best console game of the year. But it doesn’t end there; here are some of the most anticipated games releasing on the PS4 in 2018 and the coming years.

SpiderMan

Easily one of the most hyped PS4 releases for the remainder of the year is this open-world, action-adventure game. It’s exclusive to Sony and is the first big Spidey game in a long time. It will allow players to explore, fight crime, and generally web-sling his or her way in a fully realized city patterned after New York. Spider-Man is coming out in September.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Competing with Spider-Man for the most anticipated upcoming game on the Sony console is the sequel to the critically praised Red Dead Redemption. Releasing this October, RDR2 is the brainchild of highly successful developer Rockstar Games of Grand Theft Auto fame. It’s an even bigger open-world sandbox game that will give players a grand adventure in the untamed Wild West.

Death Stranding

Image source: theverge.com

Being developed by Kojima Productions, the release date of this sci-fi game is still shrouded in mystery but is even now generating tons of hype among gamers. After all, it stars actors Norman Reedus, Léa Seydoux, Lindsay Wagner, and even director Guillermo del Toro. It is set in a dark planet riddled with fetuses and Dementor-like creatures. Innovations in facial recognition and game engine are making Death Stranding the new standard for gaming realism.

Hello, James P. DeVellis here, an IT aficionado. I get a lot of questions from family and friends about the latest smartphones, the best apps, troubleshooting laptops, etc. So, I decided to start writing on everything that is technology. Visit this blog for more tech-related posts.

Some Of The Best Tablets To Buy In 2018

For many, the best tablets are all about the most flexible features, a desktop-like experience, and a sleek appearance that won’t go above budget. In short, they offer the most bang for the buck. Here are some top options for 2018.

Image source: Pocket-Lint.com

iPad Pro 10.5

Opening the list with Apple’s latest flagship tablet – which understandably would cost much more than most other competitors – might be a little off-putting. But come to think of it: it’s a great choice for those looking for a serious upgrade, with standout features that enhance productivity and can even be a suitable laptop replacement for some. It got us sold on the new ProMotion screen, the wonderful speakers, and overall professional-tablet packaging.

Amazon Fire HD 10

Amazons newest and biggest Fire tablet to date competes with its larger Galaxy and Apple counterparts at a fraction of the price. The screen packs a punch at a full 1080p resolution, while the quad-core 1.2 GHs/1.4 GHz processor is nothing to scoff at. Battery life lasts long, and built-in features like the Alexa functionality are just as tempting. We’d love to choose from the black, blue, and red colors, too.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S3

The HDR screen is made for the future, just as the four speakers are cut out for greatness. Enjoy the S Pen stylus and the array of useful offerings on this leading Android tablet that boasts better quality and more potent features.

Image source: BestBuy.com

James P DeVellis is an IT professional consulting for a tech company. Most of his day is spent testing new programs and gadgets while they are being developed for public use. Learn more on this page.

Is now a good time to get a VR headset?

Virtual reality is seeping into our everyday lives, evidenced in various industries from education and medicine to real estate and gaming. Gadgets featuring VR technology are now a lot cheaper. This is manifested in current VR headsets. They’re novel and cool, for sure, but is it time you get one? 

Image source: thegadgetflow.com

The experience is definitely amazing. With a VR headset, you can look around and see yourself in a 360-degree, often-interactive world simulating the real one. There’s a great sense of being in the game, especially as you use hand-motion controls to duck, lean, and move forward and back. 

Popular VR headsets like Daydream, HTC Vive, Gear VR, and the Oculus Rift now have a good number of supported VR titles you can play. The great thing about these is that the price is going down, with standalone VR headsets that don’t have to connect to PCs seen to be priced for just $200 when they roll out. 

Right now, VR headsets are cool and fun gadgets good for some games. But they are still just toys with not-so-great graphics. VR tech has yet to give you those 1080DP or 4K resolutions, making the experience a little less real, visually speaking. Still, critiquing VR tech seems pointless given its imminent prevalence and potential to be the next driving force for truly immersive gaming. 

Image source: news.stanford.edu

Hello, my name is James P. DeVellis, and I’m a certified technophile. Since I work for a tech company, I get a lot of questions about tech stuff. So, I decided to blog about it. More tech reviews here.

The rise of the iPhone

You can actually count with the fingers on your right hand how many tech companies in the world are as big as Apple. The company is a world leader in technology and innovation, and its products are known for its superior quality and craftsmanship. Over the past few decades, Apple has come out with iconic products that made their mark on history. In this century, no other Apple product is as well-known as the iPhone. 

Image source: gadgets.ndtv.com

The curious thing though is that when you look at the iPhone’s history, you’ll notice that it isn’t the first incarnation of the product that elevated its status – it was the 3G version. Prior to the 3G, phones were mostly used to make calls and text. The newer ones had the occasional low-res camera and probably a game or two. 

The iPhone 3G though introduced something that would change the smartphone landscape forever – apps. Now, phones weren’t simply limited to surfing the web. Smartphones could do things nobody thought phones could do. From 550 apps initially, over 15,000 popped up in the next months. All kinds of apps attracted people everywhere, catapulting the iPhone even higher above the most popular IT products in the market. 

Image source: Wikipedia.org

Hi, James P. DeVellis here. Since I’m the technophile in our family, I get all the tech questions. Read some of my responses on Twitter.

Practical reasons for passing on the iPhone X

There’s no denying the hype generated by the 10th-anniversary release of the iPhone. Apple and iPhone fans came in droves and even camped out during the worldwide release, and many units have since sold out in many places all over the globe. But is the whopping price of $999 really worth it? 

Image source: imore.com

The easy answer is an outright no. Aside from the unprecedented, almost snobbish pricing for a smartphone, it comes with an almost-obligatory AppleCare+ extended warranty that would require buyers to shell out another $200 for a two-year coverage. Not getting this warranty will lead up to $549 charges for major repairs on the iPhone X.

Secondly, it’s not as though its Android competitors are lagging behind. The iPhone X has lots of new features not seen on the iPhone before, yes, but the world of the Android has seen its own advances for some time now such as OLED screens, wireless charging, and “all-screen” bezels.

Arguing against any product of the industry giant that is Apple might seem futile as devoted iPhone enthusiasts will still get the phone, anyway. What would be awesome though is if the company manages to match or overtake the rapid growth of its Android competitors. If this happens, maybe more average consumers will understand better why there’s a need to pay such high amounts for a smartphone.

Image source: wordpress.com

Hi, James P. DeVellis here. Working for a huge tech company, I get all sorts of questions about gadgets, apps, troubleshooting, etc. For similar reads on innovative technologies and the like, drop by this webpage.

How Honda is pushing the boundaries of automobile technology

Automobile manufacturer Honda has developed the NeuV, a first of its kind. NeuV stands for New Electric Utility Vehicle, and for all intents and purposes the future of the automotive industry. Being internet-ready and able to drive itself are two of its many impressive features.

Image source: techcrunch.com

However, what sets the NeuV apart is the HANA, or Honda Automated Network Assistant, which is an AI that interacts with the driver of the car. HANA is part of the NeuV’s dashboard and serves as the second passenger of the car whose "brain" is located on the dashboard.

Science fiction has indeed become a reality through the NeuV and HANA. Although cars like KITT from the TV series “Knight Rider” or the Autobots from “Transformers” are still light years away (though Honda has developed the world’s first robot as well), the NeuV and HANA are indeed steps toward the right direction.

The possibilities now seem endless. With the right application and a bit more tweaking, HANA can be of more use to society than you might think. At present, it can monitor a driver’s heart rate and recognize faces. HANA can even start conversations with a driver if she senses the driver dozing off. Maybe future versions of HANA may help serve law enforcement and healthcare, and save lives in the process.

Image source: japanbullet.com

My name is James P. DeVellis, a certified technophile. Follow me on Twitter for more tech-related discussions.

Why you shouldn’t be worried about iPhone X’s faceID

Apple recently showcased its new flagship phone, the iPhone X, at the newly-constructed Steve Jobs Theater. The latest smartphone comes with complete with edge-to-edge OLED display and a new facial recognition system called the faceID. Apple has removed the touchID saying that faceID will be more secure. The company went as far as saying there’s 1 in a million chance of a passerby on the street gaining access to the iPhone X, compared to 1 in 50,000 with touchID. 

Image source: mshcdn.com

But even with the iPhone X’s high-end TrueDepth Camera System, some people aren’t convinced that faceID is secure enough to replace touchID, remarking that the feature is already available on many Android devices. To be fair though, the facial recognition in Android devices can be fooled with a picture and can’t be used in the dark, which were both overcame by the faceID. Apple even said that it tried to use a - mask used by Hollywood actors to try to fool faceID, and it didn’t work. 

So how secure is faceID? First, it won’t unlock unless you’re looking at it. Second, the TrueDepth Camera System has some advanced technology housed in the notch. Here are the three main technologies that make the TrueDepth Camera system: 

Dot Projector: More than 30,000 invisible dots are projected onto your face to build your unique facial map. 

Infrared Camera: An infrared camera reads the dot pattern, captures an infrared image, then sends the data to the Secure Enclave in the A11 Bionic chip to confirm a match. 

Flood Illuminator: Invisible infrared light helps identify your face even when it’s dark. 

Image source: kinja-img.com

Hi, my name’s James P. DeVellis. I’m a self-confessed IT guy, and that means receiving tons of tech-related questions from family and friends. Visit my blog to see some of them.

The best PC tune-up utilities of 2017

It’s 2017 and fast startup times and speedy operations should be a normal occurrence in almost all PCs. Well, at least on the brand-new ones. 

Image source: avg.com

We all want our PCs to run at peak capacity, regardless of whether it’s a budget laptop or a pro desktop. But inevitably, that out-of-the-box performance fades away. Every PC will eventually slow down; unless you’re properly maintaining it. That’s why there are many tune-up utilities available for PCs. 

So, what’s a tune-up utility? It’s a computer application that digs deep (with your permission, of course) into your computer and fixes trouble areas. It performs several functions from defragmenting your PC’s hard drive to repairing Windows Registry to freeing up disk space by deleting useless duplicate files and caches. 

Here are two of the best PC tune-up utilities of 2017: 

Lolo System Mechanic: At $49.99 the Lolo System mechanic may be one of the most expensive PC utilities out there, but it has all the tools you need to get your PC performing like new again. 

AVG Tune-up: AVG is one of the leading anti-virus companies in the world. So, it’s only fitting that it has one of the best PC Tune-up utilities available. What’s better is it now offers unlimited licenses. Preferable for those with many PCs to maintain. 

Image source : pcmag.com

My name is James P. DeVellis, a certified technophile. Subscribe to my blog for more tech-related discussions.