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iTech Dunya is a technology blog that specializes in tech-related topics.Our GOAL is to produce high-quality content for our millions of readers.

The Tech That Will Change Your Life in 2016

The Tech That Will Change Your Life in 2016
Gadgets, breakthroughs and ideas we think will define the state of the art in the year ahead
By Geoffrey A. Fowler and Joanna Stern WSJ Dec. 29, 2015
Entering 2016, the future never felt more within reach.
Science fiction will become science fact this year when you take virtual-reality vacations and your dishwasher reorders its own soap. Are you ready for a drone that follows you around like paparazzi?
When we gazed ahead at the devices, breakthroughs and ideas most likely to make waves, two themes emerged. One is liberation: We’re increasingly less shackled, be it to a phone charger or a cable subscription. The other is intelligence: As processing power and bandwidth increase, our machines, services and even messaging apps become more capable.
Here are our best picks for what’s coming, and what you can do to be ready for it.
Virtual Reality Gets Real
It’s marked on 2016 calendars everywhere: Virtual reality finally gets real. It begins with the scheduled spring arrival of the long-anticipated Oculus Rift headset, followed by HTC’s Vive and Sony ’s PlayStation VR. Unlike less expensive smartphone-based headsets like Samsung ’s Oculus-powered Gear VR, advanced sensors and imaging in dedicated headsets promise immersive experiences that will make you feel like you’re in a teleporter. (“Augmented reality,” a combined view of virtual and real worlds, being developed by Magic LeapMicrosoft ’s HoloLens team and others, is still a ways from home.) Games and other flights of fantasy will be key to the appeal. But thanks to investments in 360-degree video and apps, you’ll also get closer to not-so-far-out realities: front row at a sold-out concert…or a seat at that meeting you’d otherwise miss.
How to get ready: If you have a new Samsung Galaxy phone, get the $100 Gear VR. If you have an iPhone or another Android phone, try out the $20 Google Cardboard. A swivel chair makes it easier to spin through the 360-degree environments without hurting yourself. You may also want some Dramamine.
Wiser Messaging Apps
Your new robot BFF is just a message away. In 2016, messaging stops being just a way to send texts and emojis to friends, but also a way to reach all-knowing bot assistants. Beta-testers in the San Francisco area using Facebook ’s Messenger app can already ask “M” to book restaurant reservations, buy a gift for a friend or simply tell you Mom’s birthday. Google is reportedly readying a similar app. Bots aside, messaging software will also evolve to include more features. Just likeChina’s popular messaging apps, you’ll be able to pay your friends or bills, book appointments, play games, translate messages and more.
How to get ready: A messaging app is only as good as the people using it. Gather your friends and family and try to get them on the same one—best if it works across all devices.
Safer, Smarter Drones
Everybody loves the aerial look of drone photography, but let’s face it—not everybody was born to be a drone pilot. We’ll soon think of drones more like cameras than helicopters, as their technology evolves to compensate for novice mistakes and foolhardy fliers. One maker, Lily, plans to release a waterproof model that launches when flung into the air, then follows you around as you kayak, ski or take a sunset selfie on the beach. Action-camera giant GoPro also plans to deliver a drone, called Karma, though the company has been tight-lipped about how it’ll work.
How to get ready: Unless you’re prepared to commit to flying lessons, don’t buy one of today’s models. Beware, too, of great-sounding drones that appear on crowdfunding sites such as Kickstarter. They may face significant delivery delays—if they deliver at all. Also, get to know your rights and obligations as a drone owner, such as where you can fly and how to register it with the government.
Happy New USB Port!
The USB port you have known—and probably hated—is in for a change. In 2015, the smaller, faster USB Type-C port appeared in laptops like Apple’s new MacBook, and phones like Google’s Nexus 6P. This will be the year it also turns up in monitors, hard drives and everything else. The great news: USB Type-C is capable of two-way power, so one port on a laptop could be used to charge the battery and connect an external drive. This should result in fewer cords, plus faster charging. The bad news: All the USB cords you’ve previously amassed will join the rat’s nest in your garage.
How to get ready: Be on the lookout for devices with USB Type-C. Dell and HPjust joined Apple with computers that have it. You may also want to buy some USB-to-Type-C adapters—as low as $8 on Amazon—so you can keep older peripherals plugged in. 
Voice-Operated Everything
No, you’re not paranoid: The gadgets really are listening. Voice-operated electronics are poised for a quantum leap in accuracy and intelligence in 2016. Talking offers a more natural way to interact with devices that need complex input but aren’t exactly keyboard-friendly, such as TVs, sound systems and household electronics. Voice arrived in a big way in 2015 when Microsoft’s Cortana virtual assistant came to Windows 10, while Siri and Google Now turned up in cars and TVs. This year, expect voice control on more computers and an even wider range of gadgets, including the CogniToys Dino, a toy that uses IBM ’s Watson to help answer questions, and Jibo, a talking family robot.
How to get ready: Find a platform and stick to it. Voice systems work better the more they get to know you, and Amazon, Apple, Google and Microsoft don’t always play well with each other. You’ll also need to learn the still-awkward lingo of some systems, or else you’ll do a lot of yelling.
Chinese Phones Hit the Market
Chinese smartphones are big globally, but little-known to U.S. shoppers obsessed with Apple and Samsung. In 2016, expect Chinese brands that don’t just undercut on price, but bring features from China’s thriving mobile culture. Huawei, the world’s third-largest smartphone maker, made the $449 Nexus 6P and hasdeclared its intention for a U.S. launch of its flagship Mate 8, which also has a metal body, fingerprint scanner and large battery. Letv, a brand created by known as the “ Steve Jobs of China,” is also poised for a big U.S. splash. Then the ball’s in the court of the enormously valued startup Xiaomi, which has downplayed U.S. launch plans.
How to get ready: If you’re on the fence about buying a new Android phone right now, hold off. At the very least, don’t sign a service contract that ties you to a handset.
Cameras That See More
Smartphones and point-and-shoots alike are sprouting multiple lenses and sensors to improve image quality, capture depth and “see” in 3-D. Some laptops and tablets already contain multi-sensor cameras—such as Intel ’s RealSense—to measure rooms and use facial ID at login. A slim camera called the Light L16, due this summer, goes all out, employing 16 lens-and-sensor modules of varying focal lengths to capture massive 52-megapixel scenes.
How to get ready: Don’t invest in an expensive new DSLR camera just yet. With this new multi-lens technology, you may soon be able to get better shots from a device that’s a fraction of the size and weight.
Streaming Channels Galore
Television’s metamorphosis has only just begun. In 2016, look for more streaming versions of channels now found only on your cable box, including some big networks and local stations. Just don’t expect cutting cable to save you a lot of money, as your credit card statement floods with assorted subscription charges. Apps will evolve so that it’s easier to find stuff to watch—and provide new interactive experiences for your home’s biggest screen.
How to get ready: Buy a streaming box or smart TV that runs most of the latest apps. Roku remains the one to beat, but the new Apple TV is also a good option given the iPhone maker’s sway with media companies. Decent home broadband and a recent Wi-Fi router will ensure fewer streaming hiccups.
Wireless Charging Everywhere
Wireless charging is the tech industry’s campaign promise: often discussed, never quite delivered. This year, we may really stop plugging all our gadgets into the wall. First, an ugly standards war is resolving, with the two leading camps merging into one set of cooperating technologies. (Samsung’s Galaxy S6 actually supports both.) Next, more countertops will provide juice. Starbucks already has tables that charge devices wirelessly, IKEA has started shipping furniture that does the same. GMToyota and Audi have it in cars—or soon will. As more compatible devices arrive, many will be capable of faster charging speeds than the sluggish rates currently available.
How to get ready: Keep an eye out for wireless charging stations in airports, coffee shops, etc. As for buying gear, it’s best to wait and see. Definitely avoid the current wireless charging cases.
Independent Wearables
Without a nearby phone, the smartwatches of 2015 don’t do much more than track steps and tell the time. The smartwatches of 2016, however, will begin to show their independence with built-in wireless, including cellular and GPS radios. It could make a big difference for fitness nuts who want to leave their phone at home but still track routes and stay in touch. LG and Samsung recently launched watches with built-in cellular connectivity, and other popular models should gain enhanced wireless capabilities, too.
How to get ready: Hold off on purchasing a smartwatch for a few months. But once new options are released, pay attention to battery life: Those new radios could severely impact endurance.
Cutting the Headphone Cord
Bluetooth headphones are far from new, but this is the year you should buy a pair. Improvements to the wireless technology mean no more muffled sound or dropped connections. We’re expecting several truly wireless earbuds in 2016, including Bragi Dash and Alpha Skybuds—they don’t even need a wire to connect between your ears. There’s even talk of headphone jacks disappearing from smartphones, a casualty of the quest for ever-thinner designs.
How to get ready: You could buy yourself a comfortable pair of Bluetooth headphones, like Bose SoundLink, or the Jaybird X2 for exercising. For the next wave, wait at least until after January’s Consumer Electronics Show.
A Useful Internet of Things
Finally, there’s a reason to connect household items to the Internet, thanks to programs like Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service. Using sensors built into devices like Brita water pitchers, Brother printers and Whirlpool washers, it automatically orders more supplies when you’re running low. In 2016, expect to hear credible ideas about how everyday objects—from garage doors to air vents—can be connected to help run your house and reduce your worries.
How to get ready: Choose products that support capabilities like Amazon Dash, the first of which are launching early in 2016. Also, look for connected devices that speak a common language like Google’s Works With Nest.
Write to Geoffrey A. Fowler at geoffrey.fowler@wsj.com or on Twitter@geoffreyfowler and Joanna Stern at joanna.stern@wsj.com or on Twitter@joannastern.
iTech Dunya is a technology blog that specializes in tech-related topics.Our GOAL is to produce high-quality content for our millions of readers.
How did we manage before smartphones? It seems impossible now, looking back, that we ever managed to get anything done. Along with the phone function itself, there are literally millions of apps available to assist you with making the most of your day: save time, save money, get organized, even find parking. We’ve rounded up a few of the apps that are getting praise from both techies and regular folks trying to navigate through a technology-centric world.   When You Need to Save Money: Downloading the app for your local grocery store to get personalized coupons and deals is a no-brainer. But when you’re trying to search for online coupons in general, it can seem impossible to distinguish legitimate sites from scams likely to infect your computer with malware. Fear not: RetailMeNot offers “thousands of coupons in your pocket” — according to its own website — and gathers deals from a huge variety of stores, both online and brick-and-mortar. Simply show the barcode at the register for easy savings.   When You Need to Manage Your Money: Quicken is the granddaddy of home budgeting, and You Need a Budget has been slowly gaining a good rep, but Mint seems to be overtaking them all as the No. 1 money management software. Besides tracking your money and account balances, Mint also helps you create a budget and warns you if you’re exceeding it, monitors where your money is spent, and makes money-saving suggestions. It’s free, it’s web-based, and its mobile apps are highly praised. Oh, and it’s made by Intuit, the same company that makes Quicken and TurboTax.   When You're On the Go: GasBuddy is terrific, plain and simple. Its app can sort a list of local gas stations by proximity or price, and users are encouraged to report and confirm prices for the chance to win prizes. Because its info is crowdsourced, it’s pretty much up-to-the-minute accurate, with most price listings less than four hours old (and it even notes when prices are posted).   When You Travel for Work: Tracking business expenses can be a real pain. Organizing and filing receipts, keeping mileage logs, sorting business expenses is made so easy with Expensify, a free app that works on iOS, Windows, Android, and Blackberry platforms. You can photograph your receipts and the app will read and file them for you, and create expense reports too. It can also track trip itineraries to keep all your work-related expenses in one place.   When You Need to Focus: Get freedom from distracting websites with the Freedom app. Schedule yourself some “freedom time” when you’re going to take a break and allow yourself a bit of surfing; at all other times the app will block either specified websites or the entire internet.   If you plan carefully and make informed selections, using apps to help you in numerous aspects of your life — personal, social, work-related — can increase the amount of free time and money you have to spend on the things that are truly important to you. If you want to discuss some of the apps I’ve found useful, or learn about top real estate-related apps, please contact me today!  If you or anyone you know is considering moving or selling, I would love the opportunity to apply for the Position.  Serving Canton Ga, Milton Ga, Alpharetta Ga, and surrounding Cherokee, N. Fulton & Cobb Counties   Paul Raiti donates 10% of his Commissions to a Charity of “your” choice!   #Realtor #PaulRaiti #Canton #Alpharetta #Milton #WhatsMyHomeWorth #NewConstruction #ForSale #Selling #Buying #Houses #Homes #CherokeeCounty #NorthFultonCounty #CobbCounty  Original Content: Wesley Boyd/Movement Mortgage

New Latest and Hot Apps for a Happy New Year 2016

How did we manage before smartphones? It seems impossible now, looking back, that we ever managed to get anything done. Along with the phone function itself, there are literally millions of apps available to assist you with making the most of your day: save time, save money, get organized, even find parking. We’ve rounded up a few of the apps that are getting praise from both techies and regular folks trying to navigate through a technology-centric world. 

When You Need to Save Money: Downloading the app for your local grocery store to get personalized coupons and deals is a no-brainer. But when you’re trying to search for online coupons in general, it can seem impossible to distinguish legitimate sites from scams likely to infect your computer with malware. Fear not: RetailMeNot offers “thousands of coupons in your pocket” — according to its own website — and gathers deals from a huge variety of stores, both online and brick-and-mortar. Simply show the barcode at the register for easy savings. 

When You Need to Manage Your Money: Quicken is the granddaddy of home budgeting, and You Need a Budget has been slowly gaining a good rep, but Mint seems to be overtaking them all as the No. 1 money management software. Besides tracking your money and account balances, Mint also helps you create a budget and warns you if you’re exceeding it, monitors where your money is spent, and makes money-saving suggestions. It’s free, it’s web-based, and its mobile apps are highly praised. Oh, and it’s made by Intuit, the same company that makes Quicken and TurboTax. 

When You're On the Go: GasBuddy is terrific, plain and simple. Its app can sort a list of local gas stations by proximity or price, and users are encouraged to report and confirm prices for the chance to win prizes. Because its info is crowdsourced, it’s pretty much up-to-the-minute accurate, with most price listings less than four hours old (and it even notes when prices are posted). 

When You Travel for Work: Tracking business expenses can be a real pain. Organizing and filing receipts, keeping mileage logs, sorting business expenses is made so easy with Expensify, a free app that works on iOS, Windows, Android, and Blackberry platforms. You can photograph your receipts and the app will read and file them for you, and create expense reports too. It can also track trip itineraries to keep all your work-related expenses in one place. 

When You Need to Focus: Get freedom from distracting websites with the Freedom app. Schedule yourself some “freedom time” when you’re going to take a break and allow yourself a bit of surfing; at all other times the app will block either specified websites or the entire internet. 

If you plan carefully and make informed selections, using apps to help you in numerous aspects of your life — personal, social, work-related — can increase the amount of free time and money you have to spend on the things that are truly important to you. If you want to discuss some of the apps I’ve found useful, or learn about top real estate-related apps, please contact me today!
If you or anyone you know is considering moving or selling, I would love the opportunity to apply for the Position.

Serving Canton Ga, Milton Ga, Alpharetta Ga, and surrounding Cherokee, N. Fulton & Cobb Counties

 

Paul Raiti donates 10% of his Commissions to a Charity of “your” choice!

 

#Realtor #PaulRaiti #Canton #Alpharetta #Milton #WhatsMyHomeWorth #NewConstruction #ForSale #Selling #Buying #Houses #Homes #CherokeeCounty #NorthFultonCounty #CobbCounty
Original Content: Wesley Boyd/Movement Mortgage
iTech Dunya is a technology blog that specializes in tech-related topics.Our GOAL is to produce high-quality content for our millions of readers.
Happy New Year 2016! To my dear friends, clients, co-workers and contractors!

Happy New Year 2016! To my dear friends, clients, co-workers and contractors!

I treasure the variety of projects and goals you all bring to me. You are my daily inspirational reminder that we may look, feel, or believe differently, but at the core of our being we are all aspiring to the same common value of making a positive difference in the world.
Thank you for including me as a part of that for you!
As we come into the new year and everyone starts forming their New Year’s Resolutions – I encourage you to take one specific action to make sure you achieve your goals….
WHAT ACTION? Build a ‘team’ to support you and all agree to a ‘Code of Honor’ to function within that big idea or goal (Thank you Blair Singer for the inspiration to do this many years ago for myself!).
Here is the one we have for The Thrival Company team! Enjoy the process of creating your own!

The core principles at The Thrival Company

  1. Empowerment - Our job is not to create dependencies with our client relationships, but to create independencies. If we get hired to do the same job over and over again for the same client, we have failed in empowering them to own and create lasting solutions.
  2. It's My Fault First - When anything goes wrong, you will look first internally and see why it's your fault this happened. We, at The Thrival Company, are not victims of external circumstances, we are powerful change leaders. Admitting fault is a position of power, as when we can find our own fault, we have the power to shift it. This also creates the space for others to shift and be empowered to take action and own their own fault.
  3. Mistake/Learn - We will achieve excellence in all that we do, not perfection. We live on a learning planet. Mistakes and failures will happen as that is essential for learning. You may feel bad or others may feel bad when you fail, but the faster we move from mistake to learning, the faster we will reach success. We do not make others feel bad when they fail, we shift them into learning quickly so we can reach success faster.
  4. Feedback Deepens Relationships - We are out to achieve the big hopes, dreams and aspirations of our clients. We cannot do this alone and without each other as a team. We will be masters at giving and receiving both positive and negative feedback. We will view all feedback as an opportunity to deepen our relationship with the person giving that feedback.
  5. All Relationships will Be Win/Win – We are committed that all relationships personal, professional, and financial will be designed win/win for all parties. We will attract and retain employees, contractors and clients who share this core value or we will not engage with them. We stand in a view of abundance and support for everyone to achieve their goals. We live in a paradigm of you AND me, not you or me.
  6. Everybody Builds Relationships and Everybody Sells – We are a small business with a huge vision for a global impact. Everyone in every position in our organization owns the success of this organization. Building new relationships that result in our financial and social success therefore is the responsibility of every person in the organization with no exceptions. We offer value and everyone should be able to communicate it, build relationships and sell that value to potential clients. We will support everyone on our team in mastering that skill.
  7. Anyone from any background or education can lead and be a productive member of any team – We are a leadership and team building organization. We know in our DNA that there is not one person on this earth who cannot step up and lead given the right support to do so. It is our job to see every person in every organization as the ‘10’ they can be based on their unique skills and abilities, not where they are stuck at. Is it our job to help that person be a ‘10’ in what they are meant to be, not force them to fit a pre-defined mold based on our own or others ideas and perceptions.
  8. Who you are being is more important then what you are doing or the skills you know right now – At The Thrival Company, we can mentor and teach you the skills you need to do your job. What we cannot force you to do is adopt a humble, courageous, and learning way of being around the reality that is the human condition. We cannot make you committed to what our goal is to ‘be’ for the world. For all of us to be successful at our positions, we will commit to being leaders, mentors, lifelong learners, committed to excellence in all that we do. 
    9. We shift our sails in the face of adversity. We are nimble, using our resources to get the job done under any circumstances. We are accountable to each other, supporting this principle for ourselves and when we observe each other bogged down in negativity or fear.
  9. 10. We are capacity builders for ourselves and others: When we see an opportunity to expand our abilities or build new capacity in ourselves or others, we do not shy away from it. Instead we set goals, declare it, and take actions to make it happen.
This is an expectation of every employee (and we've now expanded it to our contractors) that accepts a position with our organization.
Warm Regards,
Elizabeth
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