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  • Ten Cars to Watch for 2019 Model Year

    Each new year brings new cars to watch for! The 2019 Model Year will be no different, and we expect big things from the big automakers.

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    This will likely be one of the last model years before self-driving technology becomes widely available, so innovation will be largely iterative instead of revolutionary. With that said, lets look at the ten cars to watch for in 2019!

    2019 Chevy Silverado

    Everyone’s favorite pick-up is getting an overall face-lift for 2019. Without compromising for size or power, the new Silverado brings luxury and affordability. It’s hard to overstate just how luxurious and quiet the cabin is, and the ride is silky-smooth. Expected starting price is right around $30,000, and it’s 450 pounds lighter than last year’s model.

    2019 Honda Insight

    Redesigned and pulled out of retirement, the Honda Insight is back for 2019. This year’s entry is a hybrid that looks like a normal car, and that’s stellar. It gets an impressive 55 MPG on the highway, and it has tons of leg room. It looks in many ways like a stylistic take-off on the Civic, which is a great looking car. Even better, it starts around $23,000, which makes it a car to watch in 2019.

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    2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

    Essentially, this new Santa Fe is replacing the Santa Fe Sport. Redesigned for the 2019 Model Year, the new Santa Fe is poised to go head-to-head with cars like the CR-V and the Rogue. It’s bigger, longer and meaner-looking this year, and it brings tons of luxury to bear, too. The line we currently call the Santa Fe will be referred to as the Santa Fe XL from now on, making it the full-size Hyundai SUV. The 2019 Santa Fe, however, is much more luxurious and powerful than the previous Santa Fe Sport. Pricing is not currently available but should be soon.

    2019 Kia Forte

    Kia’s trying to have their cake and eat it, too, with the new Kia Forte. The 2019 model year Forte is roomier, for one, without bringing a larger footprint. It also packs more fuel economy but makes no sacrifice in horsepower. It’ll also be sporting all the expected advanced safety features you’ve come to want from a mid-sized car. Pricing information will be available later this year when the car is closer to going on sale.

    2019 GMC Sierra

    The pick-up market is as competitive as they come, and there are a ton of great options to choose from in it. The Sierra is no exception, and this year GMC is bringing more to the table. More size, that is. The truck has a bigger footprint, bigger interior and more power. The bed liner is carbon fiber, and all the high-end safety features you want are here. Tons of new tech is at play here, and this year will introduce an option for a diesel engine. There’s been no word on price yet, but we’d expect it to come in somewhere around $53,000, like last year’s Denali.

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    2019 Acura MDC

    Starting at $44,300, this is a vehicle to watch. Crossover SUVs are in right now, and Acura seems to know it! The roomy, tech-heavy 2019 MDC is a great entry-level SUV in Acura’s line-up. If you’ve never had a big luxury SUV, this one is a great start. The smooth ride and high-tech features will certainly spoil you, though!

    2019 Nissan Altima
    The “most advanced sedan” Nissan has ever made, in their own words, the 2019 Altima looks impressive. The new model comes with new dimensions: it’s lower to the ground and a bit longer. It also boasts a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine option, which is actually quite impressive for a sedan of its price range. Speaking of pricing, we’ve heard no word on the price from Nissan, but last year’s Altima S goes for $24,000. That places the Altima as an aggressively-priced mid-sized sedan with a ton of tech and power.

    2019 Toyota Avalon
    Toyota stays a major competitor for the title of best midsized sedan in 2019. Starting at $36,395 and coming equipped with Apple CarPlay standard, the new Avalon is set to make a splash. This entry in the Avalon family puts emphasis on the drive, making it a powerful and fun vehicle to pilot. It’s an all-around joy to take the Avalon on more complex roads, thanks to the great suspension and handling. If you want a bit of sportiness in your sedan, look no further.

    2019 Volvo XC40
    Starting at $35,200, the XC40 is a great value for a luxury SUV. As the market moves more and more towards the dominance of the crossover SUV, Volvo brings the goods with this year’s XC40. Roomy interior, tons of storage space and a great ride make the interior feel premium. The ride isn’t just smooth, though, it’s also quite fun. The engine has plenty of power and the suspension feels great. For how spacious this car is, it doesn’t handle like something its size.

    Car to Watch for the 2019 Model Year: 2019 VW Arteon Gran Turismo

    The roomy cabin and smooth ride of the Arteon Gran Turismo send a message: this is a flagship. Volkswagen is looking to enter this prestige vehicle into the same territory as Cadillac’s own flagships, and the Gran Turismo is up to the task. The 9.2-inch infotainment system sells this interior comfort while the various engine options assure you the vehicle has some power. Those engine configurations range from 148 to 276 horsepower, all on four cylinders. This is one luxury sedan to watch. Pricing and release information for the US is still to come.

  • Which Pool Alarm is the Best for Your Family?

    Which Pool Alarm is the Best for Your Family?

    It’s the time of year that everyone’s opening their backyard pools! While having the pool open is awesome fun, it can also be stressful if you have small children. You’ve got smoke alarms, so why not have a pool alarm? If you have a pool and want to keep your family safe from injury, or worse, drowning, check out these great pool alarms. 

    Pool Guard Safety Buoy Alarm 

    This alarm is adorable and hilarious and helps keep your pool safe! It’s a bright red safety cone that floats on the top of the pool. How awesome is that? It’s designed to work best with above ground pools or small in-ground pools. It’s also great for spas. If you want a cute buoy for an alarm, here it is! 

    Poolguard GAPT-2 Outdoor Pool Gate Alarm 

    This gate sensor is awesome for more unusual gates. It’s a no-contact sensor, so installation is pretty simple. If other gate sensors have proved hard to use for your gate, this one is a great pick. The conatacts need only be attached to the gate and fence within a half inch or so of one another. Adults need only press the button to allow a pass-through, but kids that can’t reach the button will trigger the alarm. This makes it easy for pool parties and general use while still keeping the kids safe! 

    Techko S187D Safe Pool Alarm 

    This is a straightforward alarm that works on any opening like a door or gate. It’s weather-resistant and will survive splashes from the pool, too! It’s easy to set up and install, and it has a very no-frills interface. If you’re looking for a simple, affordable alarm that will keep your backyard safe, this is the way to go. If you want something with more functionality, though, check out our final entry. 

    Our Favorite Pool Alarm: iSmartAlarm DWS3R Contact Sensor 

    If you’re in the market for a more advanced solution, this is for you. It sports wireless contacts that keep your pool safe, and it has a ton of integration. If you want to hook up motion detectors or cameras, those are also available. You can even synch it with an Alexa-enabled device to arm it with your voice. How cool is that? This one is easily our favorite pool alarm. 

     

  • The Top Ten Streaming Services of 2018

    The Top Ten Streaming Services of 2018

    Cable TV isn’t the living room mainstay it once was. Just a few months ago, Netflix surpassed Comcast in total net worth. If that isn’t evidence enough, the plethora of excellent streaming services should convince you! People seem to love the idea of getting streaming services with no long-term contract or commitment. And, to be honest, why are you signing contracts for any services in 2018? If you’re looking to ditch cable (and you should be) you’re probably wondering which streaming service is the best one. Good news for you, we’ve got the ten best right here! Let’s get into it! 

    10. PlayStation Vue

    Photo Credit: PlayStation.Blog 

    For $40 per month, you get access to more than 40 channels with PS Vue. There are also more expensive premium plans, all the way up to the Ultra Plan, which runs $75 per month and includes HBO and SHowtime, too. While the name may sound like it locks you in to watching via your PlayStation (which you totally can) the service is available on other platforms, too. You get access to cloud DVR, and you can add individual channels as you see fit. PS Vue also lets you watch local channels and sports, which is a plus. 

    The downsides for PS Vue, though: it’s really quite expensive. Compared to the other streaming services on this list, it doesn’t do anything differently enough to merit its high price tag. It also isn’t available on Roku, which is a strange omission.  

  • Beau’s Number 1 App Review: Pokemon Quest

    Beau’s Number 1 App Review: Pokemon Quest

    Beau’s App series. Each week, I install whatever is the No. 1 bestselling app on the iOS or Android store and review it, to save you the effort in case it’s total waste of life. This week a game called Hole.io is still in the top spot but out of now where Pokemon Quest has jumped to the number 2 spot so today we will look in on the number 2 app.  Why isn’t it No. 1? not sure, its a very simple and basic game but it’s free. So let take a look and see what has this game rocketing to the top of the charts.

    Pokemon Quest

    There has been some hype and anticipation following the announcement of the latest game in the Pokespere. The last Pokemon game Go was a spectacle the likes of which we had never seen in the gaming world before. The first vidoe game bubble?

    Pokemon Quest is a free-to-play action-adventure game in the Pokémon series developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo. Pokémon Quest features a blocky, voxel-style design similar to Minecraft. The game is set in Tumblecube Island, featuring cube-shaped Pokémon called “Pokéxel”. The Pokémon featured in the game are from the original lineup from the Kanto region in Pokémon Red and Blue. In the game, players control the base camp and the pokémon team. The player’s main task is to complete all the levels on the island, beating the wild Pokémon. The game process can be divided into four parts: base camp management, storyline, the Pokémon‘s training and the attraction of a new ones.

    Taking a left-turn from their typical animation style, the pokémon in Quest have been transformed into cube versions of themselves and inhabit a brightly colored — also 90-degree angled — terrain called Tumblecube Island. After choosing a pokémon companion to begin your quest, trainers are tasked with exploring the island for hidden treasure

    Getting Started

    You start off by selecting your first partner Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Pikachu, or Eevee. Not sure the effect of your choice will have on the game but i choose Eevee because hes the cutest. you’ll attract new Pokémon to your team by cooking. You can cook by tapping the pot located at the center of your camp and selecting ingredients. The dish you create will determine which Pokémon you’ll attract and how many stages you’ll need to take on before it’s done cooking.

     

    Yes you can evolve Pokémon. All Pokémon that evolve in Pokémon Quest do so by reaching a certain level. There are two different ways to do this. One is by training, which involves sacrificing other Pokémon (don’t worry; they won’t die, they’ll just leave your team) to improve another. Think of it like a support group. Up to four Pokémon can be used to improve another.

    The other way is by using Power and Move Stones that you obtain through Expeditions. Each Pokémon has a Power Charm grid, which holds Power and Move Stones. As the Pokémon levels up, more slots open up.

     

    The Final Thought

    Just scratching the surface of this one and there is alot to this game. It is not the average time killing mindless tap app. I realized it is way to in depth for a app review. Im going to dig a little deeper into this game and for all of you Pokemon fans I highly suggest giving it a download. No this wont have the explosion and bubble pop the last Pokemon game had, that was something of legend. This will still be a very popular game and my define 2018 in itself.

     

  • Verizon’s Unlimited Internet Scam Breakdown

    Verizon’s Unlimited Internet Scam Breakdown

    Due to some massive fraud and outright lies to their customers, Verizon has to update their unlimited plans. They have some how managed to sell consumers 4G LTE service at the most expensive price rates in the industry while limiting them to dial- up internet speeds. For those of you to young to remember what dial up speeds mean its internet speeds of 56kbps. For comparisons sake the official legal speed requirements to have a mobile service labeled 4g is 4 Mbps. Nearly 900 times what Verizon is reducing its ” Unlimited” customers cellular service to. Now we get a price increase to combat the options to Verizon’s Unlimited internet ruse.   Let’s take a dive in to  how the Big Red Machine is  dividing up “unlimited” and reserving the most useful features and the best speeds for the more expensive tiers.

    Go Unlimited: You get Verizon’s Unlimited data, but at any time, your service might be temporarily slowed down in favor of other customers when the network is busy or “congested.” Mobile hotspot speeds are restricted to just 600kbps. Video streaming off Wi-Fi is limited to 480p.

    $75 single line / $130 for two lines / $150 for three lines / $160 for four lines

    Beyond Unlimited: You get Verizon’s Unlimited data free of potential slowdowns until you pass 22GB of usage in a month. The mobile hotspot feature offers full LTE speeds until you hit 15GB of usage. Video streaming is limited to 720p.

    $85 single line / $160 for two lines / $180 for three lines / $200 for four lines

    Above Unlimited: You get Verizon’s Unlimited data free of potential slowdowns until you pass 75GB of usage in a month. Which is probably a ceiling you’ll never hit. Hotspot is full speed LTE until 20GB of usage. Video, even on the highest plan, is still limited to 720p. Each month, Verizon tosses in 5 TravelPasses (good for 4G speeds until you cross 512MB of daily usage) that work in over 130 countries.

    $95 single line / $180 for two lines / $210 for three lines / $240 for four lines

    Verizon charges an extra $10-per-month fee if you want to stream 1080p video on your smartphone. This add-on is only available to Beyond Unlimited and Above Unlimited customers.

    The Final Thought

    I have personally experienced the slow down, nay, collapse of the mobile service that I pay a premium price for. In a recent trip to the movies to see American Animals my internet speed was metered to the point of not being able to load a single fandango web page.

    I ran a speed test to reveal my internet speed had been reduced to  .03 Mbps. While  I wish i could say this was a extremely rare case and I was in the middle of the Daytona 500. I was not, just  a random Tuesday at off peak times. This seems to be the norm rather then the exception. Looks like ill have to fork over another $20 a month, per line, to get the service they originally roped me into.

    I wish we could blame this on net neutrality but they have been playing this game long before it was legal again.  I guess ill just be another one of Verizon’s massively duped customers.

  • Microsoft’s Andromeda Can Fold Our Lives

    Microsoft’s Andromeda Can Fold Our Lives

    Microsoft’s dual-screen Andromeda computing device, which is understood to launch and explode the pocketable PC has been gather rumors for months like a snow ball. While not much is solid we know this will collaborate the mobile space with the laptop PC power.  Now, according to recently leaked internal emails, we are learning that Microsoft’s Andromeda is a “new and disruptive” device that will be part of the company’s Surface hardware family.

    What We Already Know

    Microsoft says “It’s a new pocketable Surface device form factor that brings together innovative new hardware and software experiences to create a truly personal and versatile computing experience,”. Microsoft’s Andromeda could become the ultimate convertible computing device. It will have the capability to transform into any one of five form factors depending on usage. While today’s convertible notebooks with 360-degree hinges can only be used in up to three usage modes, Andromeda can transform between closed, flat, convex, concave, and full modes.

    Microsoft’s Andromeda is  a unique and innovative response to the massive and putrid disaster that Windows mobile and its terrible devices have become to be.  Microsoft commented on what this foldable surface could be by saying  “It will blur the lines between mobile and stationary computing,”. Microsoft is tentatively planning to release Andromeda in 2018. They also noted similar devices from some of Microsoft’s top OEMs to “follow afterwards.”

    We have know for years that Intel is also working on similar dual-screen devices. Its said  that it will eventually exploit and embody Microsoft’s software break through with Andromeda. Intel has already created prototype devices with dual displays and electronic paper displays s.  Asus and Lenovo are creating devices that are inspired by Intel’s own concepts. I can say with the ut most certainty one device will be available later this year.

    The Final Thought

    The pictures of Microsoft’s Andromeda paint a much better vision then I can with words. Mark my words thought, his is the future being developed today. The 20’s, the 2020’s,  will roar once again with the foundation this foldable tech will bring. Our future will hold just one device, a tablet, laptop, smartphone, TV and massive desktop in one pocket.  I’m excited the tech of my 40s could finally be the consolidation I’ve always desired. Now I’m getting very excited for this next decade. One device to rule them all…..

  • Got an Amazon Fire Tablet? It’s an Echo Show Now

    Got an Amazon Fire Tablet? It’s an Echo Show Now

    That’s right, with an upcoming software update, your Amazon Fire Tablet becomes an Echo Show. The update, called “Show Mode,” is Amazon’s newest effort to make Alexa an everyday name. If you already have a case with a stand, you can simply set your tablet up in it, swipe down on the screen to activate Show Mode, and ta-da! You have a makeshift Echo Show. You can now use your voice to check the weather, sports score, compose messages and more.  

    Performance 

    The microphone on a Fire Tablet isn’t quite as strong as the one on a true Echo Show, of course. That said, in a relatively quiet space, the tablet should have no trouble picking you up. If you’ve never used Alexa before, prepare to be impressed. If you have, however, you might notice that she’s a little quieter here in her new housing. The tablet doesn’t have terribly strong speakers, either. If you connect your tablet to a Bluetooth speaker you can remedy that, though.  

    Show Mode Charger 

    Amazon is also prepared for the cries of “this isn’t even that useful.” How so, you ask? Why, with the Show Mode charging stand! The charging stands will be available for the HD 8 and HD 10 tablets and will effectively turn your tablet into a full-blown Echo Show. Setting the tablet upright and charging it at the same time, the charging stand lets you just put the tablet in Show Mode and walk away. There are a few downsides, though. The first is the lack of any extra microphones: you’ll be stuck with the tablet’s existing, sub-par mics. The other is the price tag, running at $40 for the HD 8 and $55 for the HD 10. That’s kind of pricey for a glorified metal stand with a charging cable running along it.  

    Bottom Line 

    If you already have a Fire Tablet, congratulations! It’s now an awkward, scaled-down Alexa device. You’re going to get a kick out of this, and it’s a free update. If you don’t own one already, though, this won’t be pushing you to get one. You might as well just get an Echo Show if an Alexa-enabled display is something you want. If the display isn’t a concern, the Echo Spot is a great device, and it only costs around $40. Still, this is cool news for those who already own one of Amazon’s tablets! 

  • Popular Scam Targets Uber Drivers

    Popular Scam Targets Uber Drivers

    A highlight of the current gig economy is the isolation contractors feel when working for companies like Uber. Since the company is so compartmentalized, drivers often feel alienated and alone on the road. Scammers have picked up on this, and a robust, complex scam has been targeting newer Uber drivers for more than a year. 

    The Scam 

    The scam in question involves misusing the information that customers get when they hail a ride through the Uber app. When you hail a ride, you see information about the driver, like their name and license plate number. Not to mention, you can call them through the app. That call gets a randomized, anonymous number with a 415 area-code, the same as Uber’s headquarters. 

    Upon hailing the cab, the user then calls the driver and claims to be from corporate and explains that there’s an issue with the driver’s account. The account needs to be verified before the driver can complete the fare, the scammer says. This is the tricky part: the scammer asks for the email and password of the driver. Then, the scammer has the driver tell them the code that they were just texted. You’ve probably guessed it: this is a phishing call, and that code was the two-factor verification. Now, the scammer is into the driver’s Uber account. “Alright, everything’s good here. We’ve transferred that ride to another car, but you’re free to keep driving.” 

    After that, of course, the damage isn’t done, but just beginning. The scammer will use their access to the driver account to change their account settings so that they can profit from any work the driver does. They’ll profit from any work the driver has done when Uber pays out for their work on Sunday. 

    The Company’s Responsibility to Uber Drivers 

    As of yet, Uber hasn’t formally acknowledged this scam to their new drivers. Lyft, which has been targeted by similar scams, has directly addressed drivers regarding it. Lyft drivers are thus less likely to fall for it, as their company has helped safeguard them. Uber, by contrast, is letting its drivers fend for themselves out there. There are dozens of things the company could do to fix this situation, but as of writing they claim that their authentication processes should keep drivers safe.  

    A few targeted by the scam are contacted by Uber to inform them of potential illegal activity on their account. However, if Uber took steps like Lyft, they could avoid the issue altogether. Something as simple as Lyft’s pre-recorded message that tells a driver it’s a customer calling them would take the legs out from under this scam. Uber, ever the helpful and caring employer, has done no such thing. If you’re an Uber driver, take steps to protect yourself, and don’t give anyone your account info.  

  • VPN Roundup: Best Free VPNs

    If you’re looking to browse undetected, or speed up your internet connection, a VPN might be a good choice. 

    However, you’re probably a bit wary of paying for something that you don’t exactly understand fully. If you’re interested in trying out a VPN, but don’t want to spend money, we’ve got a list of the best free VPNs for you! Check it out!

    Speedify 
    As the name would suggest, Speedify makes sure your internet speeds are blistering fast. It uses any connections available to make sure you’re connecting as efficiently as possible. The only downside to this one is the small data allowance. You first free month, you get 4GB of downloads for free. Subsequent months, you get just 1GB. If you try it and love it, though, you can subscribe to get the full service.

    Hotspot Shield Free
    A free VPN powered by ads, Hotspot Shield Free is a solid option. While it’s free, you get access to 500 MB of download per day! The paid version gains access to full geo-spoofing features, but the free version is locked into a few pre-selected locations. If you’re looking to try some basic geo-spoofing features and use a bit of data, though, this is a great one to check out. Be aware, though, there’s currently a controversy surrounding Hotspot Shield’s advertisers. Do a bit of research and decide for yourself how you feel about the situation, as it’s still developing at time of writing.

    TunnelBear 
    TunnelBear is our runner up among free VPNs. While it has a cute, friendly design, it’s also a powerful VPN for anonymity and security. It would get higher marks if free users got more than a paltry 500MB of data per month. However, if you try the service and like it, paying for it isn’t terribly expensive. The paid subscription runs about $10 per month, but you get a considerable amount of protection and speed with your browsing. If you’re interested in trying it, the free option is very secure, if a little short on data.

    Our Favorite Free VPN Our Favorite Free VPN Windscribe 
    Those looking for a very secure free VPN need look no further. Windscribe has some phenomenal security features and eight different server locations. It doesn’t store what sites you visit, your connection logs or your IP stamps. Other information is deleted from the server about 3 minutes after your session ends. You get 10GB of data per month, which is rather generous for a free service, and you can get more for Tweeting about it and suggesting it to friends. It even sports a built-in firewall and ad-blocker! As free VPNs go, this one is your best bet. As free VPNs go, this one is your best bet. 

  • Our Favorite Grills to Heat Up your Next Cookout!

    Our Favorite Grills to Heat Up your Next Cookout!

    It’s that time of year: grilling season! Invite over some friends, grab some beers and get ready for an awesome cookout! What cookout would be complete without the star: the grill! To help you find the best one for your summer fun, we’ve got a list of our favorite grills! 

    Broil King Baron S520 

    If you’re looking for pure power out of your grill, this $650 entry to the list is for you. With a combined power of 50,000 BTUs from its five burners, you can guarantee you’ll cook your meals fast with this grill. It’s recommended that you exercise caution with this one: you don’t want to burn your meats! Experienced grill masters who want fast cook times should consider this one, though! If you can handle the heat, step into this kitchen! 

    Char-Broil Performance XL 

    Sometimes, you don’t need the very top of the line to have a good time. For those who want a solid grill for a great price, check out the Char-Broil Performance XL. A great budget choice for those looking to just cut up with friends in the back yard and grill a few burgers and dogs. Sporting five burners and running only $300, this is a great value! It’s even got an extra side burner for those smaller side dishes. It’s also great for grilling chicken, so if that’s your dish of choice, this one is for you! 

    Weber Spirit II E-310 

    A customizable and high-tech experience, those who want a flashy grill should go with this one. Retailing for $600, this one comes in a variety of colors to match your backyard aesthetic! If you have the Weber Temperature Probe you can keep an eye on the food without having to disturb it, which is awesome. Additionally, the unique tank design means you can keep tabs on how much propane you have at a glance! This means you won’t be running out right as you start making food for your guests! 

    Our Favorite Grill: Char-Broil Commercial Double Header 

    This Double Header will run you about $700, but it’s well worth the investment! If you’re a grilling multitasker, you’ll want this one. With two distinct cooking zones, you don’t have to worry about differing cook times or heat requirements. True grill masters will love the versatility of this one! While it isn’t the flashiest grill on this list, it’s easily the most rewarding for those serious about their grilling!