Author: Beau

  • Planning on Painting? 5 Tips When Painting Your Home

    Planning on Painting? 5 Tips When Painting Your Home

    A fresh coat of exterior paint can transform even the most run-down “fixer-upper” into a stylish “classic,” dramatically boosting curb appeal and adding thousands of dollars to your home’s resale value. Even if you’re not trying to sell your house, a professional-grade exterior paint job can protect it from the elements — wind, rain, mold and mildew — or at the very least, make your neighbors jealous. If you are planning on painting,  Ive got 5 tips when painting your home Id like to share with you.

    I spent a few of my youthful years painting for a living. I picked up a lot of tips and tricks, that not only save time but improve the end result. Lets go through some of these learned lessons and painting tips to make this task simpler.  With good preparation and a few tricks of the trade, painting interior ceilings and walls is a simple process that can yield professional results. Lets take a look at my 5 Tips When Painting Your Home

    Sand, Caulk and Prep

    To get a super smooth finish on your doors, windows and timber trim, give each coat a light sand before applying the next coat. The undercoat raises the grain on raw timber and sanding will knock this off and flatten out any brush strokes. If you’re using gloss paint, sanding after the first finishing coat will knock off some of the shine and help the final coat stick. I always recommend sanding and using a caulk to fill in any small blemishes. Use good caulk, the cheap stuff shrinks.

    Quality Equipment

    Good paint brushes feel ridiculously expensive so for a long time I wouldn’t spend the money. Then, I bought one of these rubber gripped edging brushes, and the difference was amazing. The biggest tip you can give a painter is to buy the best quality brushes and rollers you can afford. Good quality brushes leave less brush marks and give you better coverage. Cheap equipment is more likely to drop bristles and fibres, so you have to spend time picking them out and going over the job again. They’ll also last a lot longer, saving you money in the long run. Properly cared for, quality painting equipment will last for years.Good paint brushes feel ridiculously expensive so for a long time I wouldn’t spend the money. Then, I bought one of these rubber gripped edging brushes, and the difference was amazing.

    Good Paint, 2 Coats

    number 2 on my 5 Tips When Painting Your Home is get good quality paint and enough for two coats of paint, then paint in the same order as you applied the primer—ceiling first and then walls. Brush or roll from top to bottom. If the primer you chose was of good quality, you may need only one coat of paint. You will always want 2 coats of paint, this is a rule you can’t bend. Primer 1 Paint 2. With good high quality paint you can get away with just 2 coat and skipp the primer.

    Use a Rolling Screen in a 5 Gallon Bucket

    You can try to Line your roller pan by putting a plastic grocery sack or trash sack (inside out if it has writing on it) on the paint tray. Then you can just invert the sack when you’re done and throw it away. You can also line with foil, but the plastic bag is quicker, easier and results in less mess. If you’re taking a break or switching to a different task, you don’t have to spend time washing out the brush or roller, just wrap it up in cling wrap. Load it up with paint first and make sure the air can’t get in, which will dry out the paint. I always just go straight for a roller screen in a 5 gallon bucket, its quick and easy.

    This doesn’t mean you need to buy five gallons of paint. Instead of pouring from a gallon into a tray, you can dump the whole gallon into a five-gallon bucket with a paint screen. It’s far easier and less messy to load paint this way. I still use a tray if I’m doing a small space—like a hallway or bathroom—but if I know I’m going to use a gallon or more of paint, a bucket is the way to go.

    Use a Lined Pail for Cutting In

    last of the 5 Tips When Painting Your Home is on cutting in. “Cutting in” is when you use a brush to paint all of the edges and corners of a room. It often requires being on a ladder or step-stool for the edge around the ceiling, and you have to reload your brush with paint quite often. While I try to avoid any tools that feel “gimmicky” I’ve found the HANDy Paint Pail or similar lined paint pails to be quite useful.

    They use liners which, yes, are more expensive, but it’s one less thing to clean so I find the expense is worth it for me. It also has a handle which, for my small hands, is way easier and more comfortable than trying to grip a quart of paint in one hand while climbing up and down a ladder. That scenario has ended in disaster for me more than once.

     

     

  • Unsold SUV Inventory Causing Prices to Drop

    Unsold SUV Inventory Causing Prices to Drop

    Getting a great, affordable deal on an SUV or luxury SUV may seem too good to be true. But there’s never been a better time than right now to buy SUVs at reasonable prices – and that’s because many dealerships are being left with excess inventory due to a combination of market demand shifts and an overproduction of SUVs by manufacturers.

    Many of the top SUV lines have not changed in recent years, but due to last years unsold models prices are dropping. This is making it very easy to steal a great deal on an SUV.  The auto market is making SUVs more affordable than usual – but this climate won’t last forever. You need to start looking for new SUV deals now if you want to take advantage of the available incentives; odds are they won’t last long.

    Two developments in the auto marketplace have combined to put considerable downward pressure on the prices of new SUVs. The turn over market for leased vehicles is giving buyers a lot of gently used recent model SUVs you can buy used.  Then we have the fantastic shift in consumer demand away from sedans and towards SUVs. When there is a demand, surplus of supply follows. New SUVs are now more affordable than ever, thanks to a surplus of unsold inventory from the 2018 model year, manufacturers are scrambling to clear space for new 2019 models.

    If you’re in the market for an SUV of any kind, acting now could save you substantially. Here’s what you need to know about SUVs and luxury SUVs: why they’re more affordable now and how you can find the best deals.

    How You Can Save BIG Right Now On A New SUV

    Thanks to these 3 major shifts in the marketplace, you have a tremendous opportunity to get the vehicle you want an extremely low price

    • Consumers are giving back their leases at an epic rate4. This left thousands of dealerships with barely used cars that have very few miles on them

    • A shift from large gas-guzzling SUVs to more efficient and reliable cars

    • The model year is coming to a close and dealerships need space for new cars

    These conditions combined to form the perfect storm. Now consumers have access to the latest crossover SUVs and trucks at rock bottom prices.

    New OR Used?

    Should I buy new or used? That is the question, and everyone you asks has an answer and a reason and an Uncle with a story. the Truth is it depends. Unfortunately there is no one-size-fits-all answer. There are sound reasons to buy new and sound reasons to buy used.

    Too often the only questions we ask ourselves: Will I look good behind the wheel? and How big a monthly car payment can I afford? Neither of these questions will help you make smarter car buying decisions. Buying a car based on how much car payment you think you can afford per month will almost always ensure you buy too much car and pay too much for it. It’s also the wrong question to ask yourself when deciding between new and used.

    Luxury SUVs?

    Luxury SUVs are typically sports utility vehicles with premium features that go well above and beyond the basic necessary function. High-end materials, like wood and leather, are often incorporated into the interiors of luxury vehicles, as are premium sound systems and other advanced infotainment features. Enhanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, are also usually found on luxury models but not the average SUV.

    Luxury vehicles also tend to involve a special performance component. Many, though not all, luxury SUVs feature powerful engines and perform beyond the level of a basic SUV, Consumer Reports writes. Performance SUVs often include enhanced transmissions, suspensions, and braking for a smoother and more responsive driving experience.

    New Options

    There are a lot of benefits of purchasing new. You can get the latest technology, including things like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Most new cars come with Bluetooth phone connectivity, so you can use your phone legally while driving, without having to purchase an aftermarket Bluetooth interface. Automobiles come from the factory with warranty coverage for at least the first three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. That gives you a predictable cost of ownership over the first few years you own it, without much risk of a huge repair bill. Purchasing a new car is easier than buying used. With so many versions of the model you want at the dealership, you’ll likely find the car you are looking for on the lot. If not, your local dealer can trade inventory with another dealer to find the exact model, option list, trim level, and color you are looking for.

    Manufacturers also offer special financing incentives and lease deals on new cars that aren’t typically found on pre owned models. If you do the math, some zero percent financing deals can bring the total amount of money you’ll pay for the car down to the level of used cars with traditional financing. If you are seeking a loan from a bank or credit union, you will generally be offered a lower interest rate on a new vehicle than you would on a preowned model.

    Best New SUV Deals

    Chevy

    Chevy has some great purchase options on the 2019 Equinox.  The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox LS/Premier/LT is getting 0% APR for 72 months for qualified buyers.That monthly payment is $13.89 for every $1000 you finance. In addition to that they have $4876 in rebates and incentives. The Equinox doesn’t skimp on standard features, rounding out a truly versatile compact SUV and one of the best buys on the market.

    Ford

    The Expedition and Explorer from Ford, lets check these out. Ford is throwing financing offers at their top end SUVs. Making some very attractive offers. Along with rebated and incentives they are putting up 2.90% financing for 84 months on Explorer and Expeditions.  Now I never recommend taking a 7th year financing option but it will drastically reduce your monthly payment. While not adding to much to your total cost.

    Infiniti

    Infiniti has some offers you may want to explore and some great new SUV deals. Cost on these high end luxury SUV are quite comparable and affordable. Boasting four models in 2016, Infiniti offered a crossover vehicle or sport utility vehicle for almost any luxury preference. An entry-level compact premium crossover, the Infiniti QX50 was heavily revised for the 2019 model year. Snagging 0.9 percent APR financing for 60 months is offered on remaining 2018 QX50 models. Infiniti’s flagship QX80 is also featured with 0.9 percent financing. The only 2018 Infiniti vehicle to be available with front-wheel drive, seven-passenger crossover QX60 can be acquired with 60-month, 1.9 percent APR financing. For people requiring aid due to a physical disability, the Infiniti Mobility Assist offer provides a reimbursement for approved equipment meant to improve accessibility.

     

  • This Years Best Deals on Speakers

    This Years Best Deals on Speakers

    It is the time of year you always wish you had a better sound system. It is also the time of year you can get the best deals on implementing your new sound system. Ive gone and summed up the best ways to boost your music and entertainment sound system and the best deals on those speakers. First lets start with the best option the Sonos Sound System.

    The Best Buy For an Expandable System; Sonos Sound System

    Sonos, Look no further then Sonos. Quality, Price, Performance and Customization. You get this all with the Sonos Sound System.

    Sonos is the wireless Home Sound System that can fill many rooms simultaneously with immersive sound. The easy-to-use wireless home system has impressive sounding speakers giving users a rich, crystal-clear sound; enhancing TV and movie experience with just a tap. The Sonos line includes the Sonos One, Sonos Play, Sonos Beam and Sonos Playbar, all streaming over wi-fi, so the music never stops.

    The Sonos Play:1 is so good, that it easily earns the best budget title. Although there’s no way around the WiFi-only aspect of the Play:1, it’s hardly a deal breaker and, in fact, might be a strong benefit. The design is a little clunky, with some comparing it to a coffee can, but at 4.7 inches wide, 6.4 inches deep and weighing 4.1 pounds, it’s not designed for portability.

    Setup is a snap. Just download the free Sonos app for Android or iOS, run the app, follow the instructions and play. One caveat is that music must be played back from the Sonos app since it doesn’t utilize either Airplay or Bluetooth. However, given the wide range of streaming choices (Spotify, Google Play Music and Prime Music), you shouldn’t run into a problem. Unfortunately, Apple Music doesn’t work with Sonos, but you can utilize your full iTunes library through the app.

    The 3.5-inch woofer and two amps are powered by a wall outlet connector and can easily fill up a room with volume and sound. For the price tag, the Play:1 is not just the most affordable Sonos speaker to date, it’s also a great choice if you’re looking for something simple and easy without having to spend a lot of money on a huge audio system

     

    Build Your Sonos System

    To get the Best deal and best sound for your music and entertainment system your best bet is to start your Sonos system with a Play:5, the big brother of the bunch, and work your way down.  Once you have the center component measure out your rooms and build accordingly. Lastly add the final peice the Sonos Sound System Playbar and a Play One is a great pick for kitchens, bedrooms and studies. If you want the latest and greatest from Sonos, check out the brand-new Sonos Playbase – it’s a speaker and TV stand all in one package.

    Right around the holidays, mostly, but do happen sporadically  throughout the year as well you can find great deals on the Sonos Sound System components. What makes DOnos the best deals is you can build as you go and capitalize on the right sales. Wait for the Bogo offers on the Play 1 around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Throughout the year look for the $50 and $75 off to snag your soundbar and Home Base.

     

     

    Best System for the Money

    Bose advertises the SoundTouch 30 Series III as their “best-performing one-piece wireless music system”. This means it’s on the more expensive side, but well worth the splurge. Colors come in black and white. While I have not seen any great fall deals on this yet, they are sure to come. At a reasonable $499 this is the best one shot system money can buy.

    The Bose SoundTouch 30 Series III will capture every riff, beat, and note from your music playlist. Its patented technology is engineered to fill any room, large or small, with deep and robust sound. best part is it’s just a one-piece system. Out of the box to music is a simple quick set up. Bluetooth-enabled and wireless, additional Bose speakers can be added on, meaning you can turn a warehouse into an acoustic heaven.

    Worth Mentioning The Apple HomePod

    Apple’s awesome-sounding smart speaker has two major knocks. Siri still isn’t as good a voice assistant as Alexa and Google, and the $350 price is just too high. This Best Buy discount nicely addresses the second issue, getting it to a much more reasonable $250. If you want a great deal on a high end and affordable music speaker, grab one or two of these. Unbox, plug in, power on, sign in and jam. Nuff said

  • Top 5 Android Devices for 2018

    Top 5 Android Devices for 2018

    With a user base comprising roughly two thirds of the world’s smartphone owners, Android is the world’s most popular mobile operating system. The availability of the software for device makers is a key reason for the popularity. The Android OS is universally compatible and available without restrictions.

    The other main reason Android is the world’s most popular mobile operating system by a wide margin is the price of their phones. The fact that you can buy an Android phone on a tight budget, doesn’t mean that there aren’t also premium Android phones available. The best Android phones on the market are ready to stand toe-to-toe against the iPhone in terms of performance, build quality, and features.

    Today we are gonna talk about the Top 5 Androids on the market. Four of the phones we will cover are staples. Android flagships and devices someone you know currently adores. The last one you may never have heard of, but mobile enthusiasts all over the world are raving about it and paying attention to new models. If you’d like to buy a premium Android phone today, this is what you need to consider.

    Samsung Note 9

    This is the big dog on the Android block. Despite its troubled past the Note 9 in new, improved and the Top Android Device for 2018.The  Galaxy Note 9 truly puts powerful technology in the hands of pioneers who demand more. Innovative features and design make it the only phone to keep up with the next generation of achievers. The Note 9 isn’t a radical design departure from its predecessor. It’s still a glass-and-metal sandwich, and the only significant aesthetic changes are new colors, slightly chamfered edges, and a better location for the fingerprint sensor below the cameras.

    How do you make it to the top of the Android list? If you are Samsung you start with a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display. This is key, as any modern woman will tell you bigger is better. You take that screen and power it with the latest Snapdragon Processor. Snapdragon 845. It needs to have RAM, 6gb will do.. 8 it better. That is a lot of power in your pocket,4,000 mAh battery will be needed. That’s gonna get hot… Add in a  Water/Carbon Fiber cooling system. Bind this all with the latest Android software Google has to offer and you have the Best Android enabled mobile device…. The Note 9.

    Google Pixel 3

    The Pixel 3 takes brilliant photos, even in super low-light, with its single rear lens and it can capture wider selfie photos. It’s water resistant, has wireless charging and it can screen unwanted calls. I was most impressed by the vibrant and sharp photos it took with a single rear camera. Then it has Night Sight, it can brighten up even the darkest of scenes without a flash so well I cant comprehend its tech, or maybe it’s magic?

    The design of the Pixel 3 is delightful, with Google’s signature two-tone design has been retained on the back, with a small glossy section at the top which houses the camera module, and a matte section for the bottom 80 percent which has the centrally-placed fingerprint sensor near the top. It is lovely. Google switched to OLED screens in their flagships now and we’re glad they have. The higher contrast ratio really tells, especially in low light and dark conditions where true black stands out and back lights cause problems.With a 2,260 x 1,080-pixel resolution, the Pixel 3 display is stunning and gorgeous.

    What I like most about the Pixel 3 and the reason it hit the 2 spot in all of the Android universe  in the Top Android Device for 2018 is the device hardware and software are made by one company. This phone is designed inside and out to be fully compatible. Then is the Pixel 3’s groundbreaking artificial intelligence (A.I.) inside. The Pixel 3 can do things no other phone can. A lot of these A.I. smarts reside in the camera, which we’ll get to soon, but Google Assistant is growing more useful by the day and there are other genuinely helpful features in here that add up to a great experience.

    Samsung S9

    The Galaxy S9 once again proves Samsung’s formula of a gorgeous 5.8-inch screen, sexy dual-curved design and terrific camera for well-lit shots can’t go wrong. Whiplash-fast speeds, wireless charging and water resistance complete the package. And it looks stunning in purple and blue.

    Content with the design and appearance of the S8, Samsung focused its efforts on small, mostly unseen changes that result in a better overall experience, but not a dramatically different one. That isn’t to say the Galaxy S9 and the larger S9 Plus are bad phones; the S8 was an excellent phone last year, and the S9 builds on that.

    So, what is actually new? Two things: the fingerprint scanner has been moved to a much easier-to-reach spot on the back of the phone, and the single speaker has been upgraded to a stereo pair. In an obvious attempt to replicate Apple’s Face ID system, Samsung has introduced a new combination face-scanning / iris-scanning feature that can be used to unlock the phone instead of the fingerprint scanner.

    The rest of the S9’s improvements are under the hood: it’s running Qualcomm’s latest processor (in North America; other markets will see Samsung’s own Exynos processor), 4GB (S9) or 6GB (S9 Plus) of RAM, and a new LTE modem that supports even faster gigabit speeds. Those are specs we’re likely to see in almost every Android flagship this year, but Samsung is the first with them out of the gate. The design, display, and specs of the S9 bring zero surprises, but they are the things that influence your day-to-day use of the phone more than anything else. For the most part, Samsung nailed the basics and is the 3rd best Android in 2018.

    LG G6

    If you long for an Android flagship phone but can’t stomach the high prices of the Google Pixel 3 and Samsung Galaxy S9, the LG G6 will prove an attractive alternative. Though the G6 uses a slightly older chipset – the Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 rather than the Snapdragon 835 used in the S8 and Pixel 2 – few notice a performance difference in practice. The G6 also ditches the unusual modular design of last year’s LG G5 in favor of a more traditional unibody design with a non-removable battery and an elongated screen. Though some may regret the fixed battery of the G6, its battery life is superior to that of the G5.

    Like most current flagship phones, the LG G6 features dual rear-camera lenses. Unlike with some other phones, though, the purpose of the dual lenses isn’t to enable the G6 to capture portraits with blurred backgrounds. Instead, the lenses enable you to switch between standard and wide-angle shots. The G6 also includes a built-in app that enhances the process of capturing square photos for Instagram. Thanks to the dimensions of the G6’s display, you can view your most recent square photo on one half of the screen while viewing a live feed from the camera lens on the other half of the screen.

    Though the LG G6 may lack the latest and greatest hardware – not to mention the eye-catching designs – of the Google Pixel 3 and Samsung Galaxy S9, it still manages to give you a true flagship phone experience at a significantly lower cost and ranks as the 4th best Android phone in 2018.

    Red Hydrogen One

    A lot of you have not heard of this one. You should. The Hydrogen one  Holographic 4-View (H4V) capture, your content isn’t just seen. It’s felt. From an exotic sports car’s shine to the last rays of the sun at dusk, H4V capture produces beautiful lighting effects with dynamic textures, glitters and light shafts. Welcome to the end of flat content. It is true innovation in the realm of mobile devices, the kind of innovation you can only get with a top Android device.

    he Hydrogen One is defined by its ambition. It’s meant to revolutionize not just phones, but all of media with a “holographic” display and a camera system capable of recording into this 3D format. The phone is also expandable, and RED — one of the most esteemed names in digital imaging — plans to release an add-on camera sensor that’s capable of transforming the phone into a full-on cinema camera.  Imagine a full cinematic camera in the pockets of all our next great film makers and artist. This may not be the commercial success it should be, but time will yield this to be the beginning of a revolution and for that alone it gets the 5 spot for the Top Android Device for 2018.

     

     

  • Great Apple Tech War of the 21rst Century

    Great Apple Tech War of the 21rst Century

    Apple is always up to some fantastic things, Making headlines and straight surprising us with out of the box ideas. Apple News is plentiful and fascinating so here is a quick look at a few things Apple is up to today. Also it help as you are reading these to do so in Walter Cronkite’s voice. We have a situation developing, Im dubbing this The Great Apple Tech War of the 21rst Century.

    The Great Apple Tech War of the 21rst Century First Shots Fire

    Last March Apple CEO Tim Cook criticized Facebook in an MSNBC interview for being a service that traffics “in your personal life.” This is now the true first shots fired will what will be know as the Great Apple Tech War of the 21rst Century. In those comments made back in March, Cook dismissed a question asking him what he would do if he were in Zuckerberg’s shoes dealing with the fallout from the Cambridge Analytica scandal by saying, “I wouldn’t be in this situation.” These Comments natuallry enraged Old Zucks. He shot back then by saying  he found Cook’s comments to be “extremely glib,” and that “I think it’s important that we don’t all get Stockholm syndrome and let the companies that work hard to charge you more convince you that they actually care more about you. Because that sounds ridiculous to me.”.

    Fast forward to today,  Zuckerberg ordered his management team to only use Android phones. A retaliatory move in an effort to take a shot back at Apple for Cooks comments. A war has begun, We will follow this with great interest.

    The Western Front

    Now we take you to the Western Front of the Great Apple Tech War of the 21rst Century. Apple and Qualcomm have been in a heated dispute for the last two years, and now Apple is taking another small jab at the company by opening up jobs that seem to be designed to grab employees from the chipmaking giant. Apple has opened 10 job listings this month for chipmaking positions in San Diego. That’s where Qualcomm is based, and according to the report, Apple has never searched for chip engineers there before. It also suggests that Apple could be opening up another regional office for chip designers.

    We know already Apple is gearing up to cut Intel out from their Mac lines. Poaching the talent from Qualcomm is the tactical move. Qualcomm will strike back, I don’t know how or when. This aggression will not stand, and you can be sure of this.

     

    The Final Thought

    While we are just watching these conflicts begin to erupt, erupt they most definitely will. We have seen the intensely intriguing battle with Samsung already take place in . Still the best highlight from that on going war is the dump trucks of nickels delivered to Apples Cupertino HQ. The next move will be two companies forming an alliance. It won’t be to long before we see this.

  • FaceBook Portal and The New Video Calling

    FaceBook Portal and The New Video Calling

    Facebook has something it wants in every home to be always on, always watching always listening. Its called FaceBook Portal. The FaceBook Portal devices are video-calling machines that people can use to talk through a screen to other Facebook users. They have a 12-megapixel camera with high-definition video and artificial intelligence software; the camera follows people about as they move around. It’s a 10 inch screen that lets you make video calls to other Facebook users while being able to move and talk freely with a smart camera and smart sound.

    Smart Camera

    What do they mean by smart camera? This is automatic framing, which Facebook calls “Smart Camera,” makes every video call more comfortable to participate in. The 12-megapixel camera can do 5x zoom and capture movement within a 140-degree range. The four-mic array flanks the lens on either side, doing double duty of listening to commands and noise canceling during chats. I don’t have a great reason why but its placement reminds me of the eye above the pyramid on the back of a dollar bill.

    The Facebook Portal is Alexa enabled. To trigger the function, say “Hey Portal” and then “call [enter name here].” Simple enough. Though the actual “Hey Portal” features are essentially limited to things like making calls and putting the unit to sleep.

    The FaceBook Portal Setup and Use

    Setting up my Portal Plus was easy. Popped the thing out of the box, plopped it on my desk, plugged it in, connected to Wi-Fi and my Facebook account. I was frankly blown away by how well-designed Portal was. It has one purpose — calling other people who use Facebook. Surprisingly it does that extremely well. But Who still uses Facebook?

    The great thing about these devices is that they are stationary and always on. It uses software to follow you around a room, always keeping the speaker in frame and cropped. I found this very useful. I expected it to be chintzy because it’s the company’s first piece of hardware. But shockingly, it wasn’t. The screen is huge on my Portal Plus. Imagine putting an iPad Pro on a tall vertical sound bar and adding an always-on camera in my home, connected to Facebook, all the time, 24 hours a day. I know Facebook has been working to improve how users can manage their private data on the platform. But Still.

    The Final Thought

    They took all the pieces that are available, condensed them and perfected the Video Calling. If Facebook was more trustworthy in the public’s eyes and Video calling wasn’t such an invasion of privacy to begin with , There could be one in every home. There won’t be.

  • Houston, We have Verizon 5G!

    Houston, We have Verizon 5G!

    We have liftoff! Big news and advancement in the Verizon 5G world. Verizon, Motorola, Qualcomm and Samsung announced that they’ve achieved the world’s first 5G data transmission to a smartphone using a “commercial 3GPP 5G New Radio (NR) network.” Verizon kicked in the spectrum and network, Samsung made the radio, Motorola obviously built the phone and it’s Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X50 5G modem inside that little backpack. A video Call was placed, history is made and the future is upon us.

    Currently, Verizon’s 5G service is available only in a few cities. Pushing broadband for home internet but many providers are racing to launch services. AT&T has said its 5G network will be ready to go live this month, while Sprint and LG have said they’ll try to be first to launch a phone next year. While Intel gets its 5G modem technology together Qualcomm has a head start there. They have said it expects a couple waves of flagship phones launching in 2019.

    Verizon 5G Status

    The trial, which took place in Providence, Rhode Island, used a Motorola Moto Z3 with a 5G moto mod — which Verizon called “the world’s first 5G-upgradeable smartphone. Verizon in October then announced that the fifth US city to receive its 5G network will be Panama City, Florida, as the carrier aims to “stabilize and strengthen” its wireless network across the hurricane-impacted Panhandle and throughout the Bay and Gulf counties. If you have to rebuild, rebuild in 5g.

    “As the community rebuilds, Verizon will be … committing $25 million to build the most technologically advanced wireless network in the area. We will include 5G technology as part of that infrastructure,” According to Verizon technology leader Kyle Malady last month.

    The Final Though

    Im so happy and excited also a little bit scared. Like 98% excited and 2% scared. This is momentous. We have real 5G, the world is changing before our very eyes. If you have been working on it, Now is the time to launch your holographic call platform.

  • Top Five Whitening Toothpaste

    Top Five Whitening Toothpaste

    A big bright white smile is the first thing most people notice when they meet someone. There are many teeth whitening systems and products including whitening toothpaste, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays, and whitening products obtained from a dentist.

    Teeth whitening is ideal for people who have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings) and gums. Individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best. But this cosmetic procedure is not recommended for everyone. I’m here to help you Find out if teeth whitening is right for you. While there are many ways to go about whitening your teeth, lets look at the easiest t methods. Toothpaste, Her are the Top 5 Whitening Toothpaste.

    Whitening Toothpastes

    All toothpastes help remove surface stains, because they contain mild abrasives. Some whitening toothpastes contain gentle polishing or chemical agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains only and do not contain bleach; over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that helps lighten the color deep in the tooth. Whitening toothpastes can lighten the tooth’s color by about one shade. In contrast, prescription strength whitening conducted in your dentist’s office can make your teeth three to eight shades lighter.

    Fluoridex Enhanced Whitening Toothpaste

    Fluoridex® offers an Enhanced Whitening formula that is the first professional strength fluoride toothpaste enhanced to provide the additional benefit of whitening. It offers the same anticaries benefits of the original Daily Defense formula, Plus silica to help remove surface stains without the use of hydrogen peroxide. Prescribe to patients who have recently undergone a whitening treatment, for ongoing shade maintenance.

    Cali White Activated Organic & Charcoal Whitener

    Infused with antiseptic and the remineralizing properties of Diatomaceous Earth, Tea Tree Oil, Coconut Oil, Xylitol and Peppermint Oil. All the ingredients your Mom would want you to have in an everyday toothpaste. This stuff is great! I get excited when it’s time to brush my teeth. I’m not sure how many times a day I should use it, but for now I used it in the morning, and regular toothpaste at night, and it’s working fabulously!
    It is using activated charcoal teeth whitening; a reheated, oxidized version of the stuff you buy for summer cookouts, like a natural tooth whitener. Activated charcoal’s natural adhesive qualities let it bind with surface-staining culprits like coffee, tea, wine, and plaque, and take them off your teeth for good when you spit it out. However, its whitening power stops at stains

    Crest 3D Radiant Mint Whitening Toothpaste

    This is the toothpaste that is in everyone’s bathroom. Its cheap, available and it works. Crest 3D White Radiant Mint Whitening Toothpaste uses a patented enamel-safe teeth whitening ingredient that polishes away stains to gently whiten teeth. Its unique formula creates foaming action to clean, protect and whiten teeth with a cool blast of mint as part of your complete dental health regimen. 3D White fluoride toothpaste also strengthens your tooth enamel and helps protect against cavities

    Arm & Hammer Advanced

    Getting back to the basics, the old school way. Baking soda. IT has nice packaging and easy to find. I used to do the old school method of actual baking soda, so this is a healthier way ! Exceeded my expectations and is very effective. It not only whitens your teeth and freshens breath, but it really is great on your gums . I like to keep things simple with my teeth.. and this toothpaste changed things for me. Using crest I had horrible issues going on. Once I switched, the difference was almost immediate.

    FineVine Charcoal Mint Flavor Whitening Toothpaste

    The FineVine charcoal whitening toothpaste is an ideal option for both women and men with sensitive teeth. Its activated charcoal coconut formula is specially designed to eliminate the toughest impurities and stains inside your mouth while cleaning and polishing your teeth. What’s more, it is able to improve your enamel, boost the gum health, and removing harmful bacteria for a better and fresher breath. Last but not least, this is an all-natural product so you can be sure to use it frequently without worrying about any effects of chemicals.

  • 5 Great Ways to Make Iced Coffee at Home. 

    5 Great Ways to Make Iced Coffee at Home. 

    When my sister introduced me to iced coffee, I didn’t think I’d like it. Not only did I like it, I decided I could learn how to make iced coffee on my own. I became obsessed with iced coffee. You need to get your cold caffeine on. Now the fix just got so much better. Let me tell you 5 great ways to make Iced coffee at home.

     

    Iced coffee is my life. When I wake up, often around the time party animals on the west coast are just heading home, I start each day not with a cup of freshly brewed hot java, but with a tall, blessed glass of creamy iced coffee in a glass. I’ve been an iced coffee junkie for years and years. To say I couldn’t live without it is an understatement. It gives me the tools I need to cope.

    Iced coffee is a complicated thing, and there are many different approaches. One would think that one could merely pour brewed coffee into a glass full of ice and call it a day…but I find that method extremely flawed. First, no matter how packed with ice the glass is, once the hot coffee hits, some of the ice is bound to melt. This has two disastrous results. First the The overall strength of the coffee flavor is diluted. Then iced coffee isn’t as cold as it could (or should) be. The finished glass of iced coffee should be frigid, not sorta cold with half-melted ice cubes floating around. Do I have a Solution, yes cold brew.

    Cold Brew

    First, find a bag of the strongest coffee you can find. I like to use Cafe Busto’s dark espresso. Pour in the coffee to a large container, 3 gallons at least. Add 2 gallons of cold water. cold water… Mix and cover the container. Let this sit in your fridge for 12-24 hours. When the time has passed, grab a separate container and place a fine mesh strainer over the top.Place a couple of layers of cheesecloth inside the strainer. Slowly pour the steeped coffee through the strainer. Be patient it will take a little while to seep through. Use a spoon to gently press/force the last of the liquid through. Transfer your coffee gold to a new container. This amount of coffee concentrate lasts me a good three weeks to a month if kept tightly covered in the fridge.

    Flash Brew

    Not your cup of coffee? we you are wrong, but try the Flash Brew method and see if that is more your unrefined style. People who love the nuances of hot coffee and those who drink their coffee black will gravitate towards flash brew for keeping the same profile of a hot cup of coffee while adding that extra oomph. Here are a few tricks to getting the perfect iced coffee, flash brew-style:

    Brew your hot, fresh coffee. Make it stronger than usual; you’ll be diluting it with ice. The strength of the brew depends on how many ice cubes you plan to use.
    If you want sugar in your coffee, add it now as the granules tend to dissolve more easily in hot liquid.Transfer your freshly-brewed coffee into a carafe. Let the coffee cool to room temperature (approximately one hour), then move into the refrigerator for a further two hours to thoroughly chill.Fill a tall glass with the chilled coffee, add a few ice cubes plus milk or cream, if preferred. Stir well and serve.

    • Use a full-bodied coffee to avoid tartness
    • For an iced coffee with a sweet, creamy, and/or chocolate flavor profile, go with a roast from Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Honduras. Think cream soda on the rocks!
    • For a refreshing tea-like iced coffee with fruit notes go with an Ethiopian or Kenyan roast. The fruit flavors will pop on ice.

    Vietnamese Iced Coffee

    Vietnamese Iced Coffee is a very strong coffee. This intensely brewed concentrate is creamy, rich, smooth in texture and has a bold flavor. Here is how to make Vietnamese iced coffee without using Vietnamese coffee filter.To make this coffee, any type of coffee grounds can be used. In Vietnam, the Cafe Du Monde French Roast Chicory is usually appreciated as the benchmark. But, as long as the coffee is light to medium coarse, it can be used in the preparation of this coffee. It is easy, Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour the freshly brewed coffee in the glass.Pour 2 tbsp condensed milk on top and mix gently. Serve immediately.

     

    Not Enough Time, Try Instant Iced Coffee

    You know how you’ve always been told that instant coffee had to be made hot? Well it also makes iced coffee! Just mix cold water with instant coffee grounds, add some creamer, and stir. It can take a minute or two for the coffee to dissolve, but it does!

     

    Keitel Style

    I hoped you picked up some good Iced coffee ideas and skills. Iced Coffee on a hot day can pick you up and set you free. Lets be honest though, There is only one way to drink coffee, Keitel style. Hot, lots a cream, lots a sugar.

  • Top 5 Video Chat Services

    Top 5 Video Chat Services

    For years we were promised video chat in every movie and tv show that took place in the future. The Jetsons did it, Back to the Future did it. I grew up assuming it was weeks away from reality my whole life. Then one glorious day in 2010, Steve Jobs said the word Facetime and video chat was a everyday reality.

    Video chat is the best way to connect and call your friends, family and loved ones. Allowing you to instantly share special moments in real time. Since 2010 the market flooded with video chat options. With so many options which is the best? Ill figure this out, so you can tell which setup is right for you. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and TVs, there are plenty of ways to get you up and running, and here are five of the best.

    FaceTime

    Apples proprietary video telephony system. FaceTime is available on supported iOS mobile devices and Macintosh computers. FaceTime supports any iOS device with a forward-facing camera and any Macintosh computer equipped with a FaceTime Camera. Apple bought the “FaceTime” name from FaceTime Communications. CEO Steve Jobs announced FaceTime on June 7, 2010 in conjunction with the iPhone 4 in a keynote speech at the 2010 Apple Worldwide Developers Conference. Support for the fourth generation iPod Touch (the first model of iPod Touch equipped with cameras) was announced in conjunction with the device’s release on September 8, 2010. Just like that everyone had video chat in a matter of days.

    if you have an iPad then the FaceTime app will already be installed ready for you to start using. From within there you can find contacts that are also using Apple hardware, and then it’s a simple as tapping the video icon and the app will make a call to them. It is the standard for video chat apps, The app that all other video chat apps are judged and found wanting.

    WhatsApp

    A far underestimated and often overlooked, WhatsApp is a real player in the video chat game. It is the default backup to facetime for global use. WhatsApp Messenger is a freeware and cross-platform messaging and Voice over IP service owned by Facebook. The Nice thing about Whatsapp is it is universal, and will work on almost any device anywhere in the world.

    Google Hangouts

    Yes, of course Google has its own option too – and it is called Hangouts. This allows for calls and video chat from within a browser on your laptop or PC, so anyone else with Hangouts on a computer, phone or tablet can be contacted. Hangouts lets you have multiple callers in one video chat too, intelligently spotting who’s talking and making that video the main one on screen. The app also allows for messaging so you can share photos but also allows for screen sharing. Lot of great features with Hangouts you don’t get in other apps.

    Skype

    Skype is a web-based communications tool that offers video chat, international calls, and texting via the web. This is very popular for its free video chat and communications capabilities, which are very basic at best. As a business communications tool, Skype is branded as the best and most inexpensive solutions provider for VoIP services. For those who want to fully maximize its potential and use it to improve productivity and drive revenue up, there is an enterprise pricing package for business communication that costs only $2 per user per month. With one simple platform, Skype for Business offers features like, Online meetings for up to 250 people and Secure communication lines via strong authentication and encryption.

    Facebook Portal and Video Chat

    Something new you probably didn’t know about. Facebook is launching its own device for video chat. Portal is aimed at connecting you to family and friends through video chat. The idea is that, instead of holding your phone up to your face for a jerky visual conversation with grandma and grandpa, you get a beautiful mini-TV, with a 10-inch screen.

    While not just a video chat service, Facebook’s Portal smart screen does more than just make calls. You can use it to watch videos, play games and find out the local weather, or help you tell children’s stories. Think an Alexa tablet powered and connected by Facebook.

    Pied Piper PiperChat

    A revolutionary middle-out compression was the missing piece in the video chat software world. PiperChat is similar to Google Hangout, FaceTime, and Skype. It is a video chat app that uses Pied Piper’s compression software. Piperchat is the most comprehensive and best video chatting application ever to be seen, using the same middle out compression algorithm as pied piper inc, piper chat can stream flawless 1080p video calling with only just a mere 3g signal.