Mobile Tip: Tweaking Browser Plug-Ins To Save On Battery Life

Here's a quick mobile tip I heard while I was running and listening to one of my favorite podcasts, Powerpage.

It's so obvious.  You can turn off your browser plug-ins when you're running your laptop or netbook off the battery.

I only heard it tonight so I'll give it a go tomorrow and let you know if it makes any difference.

More at Onxo Tips.

Mobile Tip: Using Stopify (From Anywhere In the World)

Thanks to Dave the Mobile Warrior for point this out.

Spotify is a music stream service in Europe and right now, it available in some countries like Britain.

As Techcrunch called it "a fully stocked iTunes".

You can stream music and it does a full library of music. Unfortunately, the rest of the world in general will have to way. But there's a hack, or rather, a back way around being in the wrong part of the world.

1. head over to this proxy site
2. find a UK postal code. London's a good place. You use this site for it.
3. copy and paste this url "https://www.spotify.com/en/get-started/" once you're at the proxy site. Keep in mind that there are a lot of ads on that page. Given the service we're getting, it's not a big deal. Go ahead. Click on an ad or two.
4. Once you're in, you it's a 30 seconds signup procedure. And that's where you need an UK postal code.

Enjoy.

Source: Techcrunch

Mobile Tip: Skype-To-Go (With T-Mobile's MyFaves)

What does T-Mobile's MyFaves have anything to do with Skype you ask? A lot if you put the two together.

MyFaves is available on some of T-Mobile's services that allows subscribers to enter up to five numbers in the US that they can call day and night for as long as they want without using up minutes in their plan. Cool eh? No so if you're Miami Heat's Wade.

So five numbers. All you can eat. Or talk in this case. How do you extend that? You merge it with Skype. Skype is offering a $2.95 a month that allows unlimited calls to the United States and Canada. In addition, you also get a voicemail for your Skype ID. But you're saying "hey, but I'm tethered to a PC or laptop. Nothing new here".

Not impressed. Here's the game changer: Skype To Go.

As a part of your Skype subscription, you are assigned a special telephone number. You can pick one that's local to you. From there, you can call anyone and the call goes through via Skype. You are only charged the minutes of your mobile service. The skype call is free.

No longer tethered to a desk. But here's with T-Mobile's MyFaves come in (I think you're getting this right about now). You add your Skype access number as one of your MyFaves number.

Now, you've got Mom, Grandma, hottie number one, hottie number two, and Skype number. Five numbers.

More than that, it makes the number of people you can call for free from five to virtually unlimited.

I had to call some folks overseas yesterday and I was running out of Skype credits. So, I finally decided to give Skype's unlimited international call plan a try. I signed up for the cheaper 3-month plan (I think I saved $3 over the month-to-month plan of USD 9.95). I added my Skype-To-G0 number to MyFaves and I did the same for my mom (we have a family plan with T-Mobile).

Yesterday, we made about three hours of mostly international calls. I got charged zero dollars and cents.

We're currently testing this out with our work phones. Especially for businesses that accrue thousands of dollars a month like ours (we make tons of international calls), $9.95 a month for one line is a bargain. We might end up getting two or three Skype lines to see how it works out.

We'll be back in a week and month on this subject to update you on how it goes.

Note: Only one person can make a call at once via Skype. So, if my mom is using the Skype-to-go number or the Skype program (available for multiple OSes), I won't be able to use it.

Another Note: I can't wait until Truphone or real Skype becomes available on the G1 and iPhone. I can seriously do a lot of damage here.

Last note: Even if have wireless subscription other than MyFaves or T-Mobile, being able to call Mexico unlimited ($5.95 a month) or internationally ($9.95 a month) and save tens, hundreds, or thousands of dollars is worth it. I think assigning a local landline works as well.

Mobile Tip: Vote!

Alright, folks.  It's November 4th.  Those of us in the US, make sure you go vote today.

It's 6:30am in LA and I'm off to wait in line.  I'm five minutes from work and one minute from my polling station.

In the meanwhile, Mobile Digerati is updated with today's mobile headlines.

Be sure to check back for today's FCC vote on white spaces.  Wish the FCC chairman a lot of luck!  And regardless if who you vote for, go if you are able.  It counts.  As the folks in Dixille Notch, New Hampshire has spoken .

Note:  In case you're wondering, it is Democratic Presidential nominee Senator Barack Obama of Illinois 15 and Republican Presidential nominee Senator John McCain of Arizon 6.

Onxo Update For the Week

I was all over the place this week.  Just like me.  I like that.  The week started with G1's arrival at my backdoor and, seemingly, about to end with my time playing on my MacWind.

Also this week, we touched on wireless providers, Android, iPhone (of course), and a couple of tips to help mobile warriors stretch their hard-earned dollar.

Mobile Issues:

• iPhone's effect on innovation, market dynamics, and revenues for everyone.
  
• Mobile Savings - 25-30% savings by using live.com and ebay
• Economic relief for T-Mobile users
• Tough times may lead to great deals this Holidays.
• Netflix and telecoms winners in economic crunch.
• Living from a mobile device.
• AWS-3 update
• Wireless providers needs a Christmas Carol moment.
• Sprint's WiMax needs Android
• Data from Wired is goodness for telecommuting
• No open-source for RIM

Mobile Devices on Onxo:

• October or November surprises for gadget lovers?
• Indian telecom offers netbooks with wireless broadband.
• New Benchmarks from Macworld for the new Macbooks
• Apple's netbook won't be a netbook.
• Nvidia's 9400M rocks! 

Economic Relief Tip: Save On T-Mobile Billing

Good friend, Dave, has sent us another tip for economic relief.  Waiting for Congress just isn't enough.  We do what we can.

A link from Fatwallet describes how we can let "Dave the Mobile Warrior" (Well, there's the Joe the Plumber) save 10% off his monthly bill.

So, if your bill is $100 or so, you're talking approximately $10 off.  I think it only reflects the service portion, not including taxes.

Still, every little bit helps.  Especially for those of us who have 3G tabs now.

NOTE:  That's right!  I got my G1 today!

Source:  Fatwallet

oDesk Offers Jobs For Some Mobile Workers

I came across oDesk via Web Worker Daily.  It's sort of an online depository for remote workers who can be hired out to jobs by companies all over the world.  It pairs prospective talents, that maybe some of you, with global employers.

For the most part, they offer jobs for folks with technical skills:

• Web  or software developers
• Web or graphic designers
• Freelance writers
• Data entry professionals

These are just a few that are in high demand.  And here's an interesting fact about oDesk:  40% of 10,000 plus jobs posted each month are offered by foreign companies.  And oDesk collects the salary on behalf of the remote talent and pays in US dollars.  Here are also some facts about how oDesk works.

• A "buyer" will post a job and provider (you) can see to fill the job.
• Interviews take place over e-mail, chat, or over phones.
• Many buyers "test drive" providers by offering small tasks for providers to complete to evaluate the best fit.
• Buyers are able to keep track of employees online.  Providers offer logs, screen shots, and memos.

If this is for you, head on over the WWD and read the article.  Also, keep in mind about Web Worker Daily for tips and news pertinent to mobile warriors.  

I hope this helps some folks.  Here are some sites that might be of interest to you.

• oDesk
• Elance
• RentAcoder

Via Web Worker Daily (See also an older WWD link)

Mobile Tip: Turn Old Laptops Into Remote Terminals

One of the problems I have is after I upgrade, what do I do with old laptops.  Right now, my Powerbook is running just fine but the screen just is not as bright as it once was.  I can't tell if I compare it to the new Macbook LCD.  I'm sure there are some degradation though.

So, what do I do with it?  Well, it still has a DVI adapter so I think I should be fine.  But some laptops don't.  What should you do then?

Gearhack decides to turn an old Sony Viao into a remote terminal.  I think it's a great idea in this instance and really gives milage for laptops that still have a lot of life left.

Check out Gearhack .  If you have questions, I'm sure GH will be happy to help out.

Mobile Tip: Make Free Calls Using an Unadvertised Feature of the Phone Networks

You didn't read that wrong.  Perfect timing to help with economic troubles we mobile warriors are likely going through.

According og Gizmo5, 11% of all US phone numbers (including mobile numbers) including those from certain carriers, such as Verizon and T-Mobile, are linked via VOIP, thus bypassing traditional phone system.  Did you know that?

What I didn't know is that we can dial directly to these numbers using a computer (or Fring on iPhone, maybe) for free.

No charge.  Nada.  If this works on Fring using the iPhone, this would totally rock!  I just got the tip today from Dave who offers tips and suggestions to Onxo.  I haven't tried it but it'll be the first thing I do when I get home.

You'll need to download Gizmo5 and set it up.

Update:  just consulted Dave and he's setting it up using Fring.  Basically, you'll need and SIP (Session Initial Protocol ) account.  It's free and open-source.
Update 2:  It works with Fring!  I was getting echos.  Badly.  I suggest you use your headset that comes with the iPhone.  I'm totally getting an iPod Touch now.

Here's the link for Gizmo5 and what I'm talking about.  ENJOY THE SAVINGS!

Economic Woes for Mobile Warriors

There are different types of mobile workers these days.  Those who work from home, coffee shops, or on the road.  Then there are those who work for themselves or the "man".

As we come up, by my count, our twentieth month of economic slowdown for Main Street folks, I wonder how mobile warriors are being affected.  I visited a couple of Starbucks and bookstores like Borders this past weekend due to circumstances and I found a lot of folks still carrying on.

Those who blogged for their dear livelihood were still there with their latte and there does not seem to be any kind of cutback aside from myself.

I wonder if this is the same for the rest of you.  Especially those who might have worked for one or two of those financial institutions that are no longer active as of last week.

I also wonder if outsourcing, no longer the leading news story these days, are still taking place.  Any input would be helpful to everyone.

Best wishes and luck for everyone of you, my friends.

Related Link:  Web Worker Daily

Note:  I don't go by government numbers.  Macroeconomic growth means nothing to you and me who struggle in a daily basis.  For the record, despite our current near-credit paralysis, we're still not in a recession.  Yet.

Mobile Tip: Make A Smartphone Stand

Ipod accessories can be quite expensive.  That's because if you want to sell to iPod, you have to go through the godfather Apple for licensing.


Well, count on resourceful individuals to come up with a 2-penny solution to create a dock to hold up the iPhone, iPod Touch, or just about any other smartphones.


It involves a paper clip.  That's it.  





I tried it.  A couple of times.  More like six times.  It works but mine look ugly.  Though in my defense, I was good at arts and craft.  I'm gonna wait till this weekend to get my five-year old nephew to make me one.  I understand they do this sort of thing at school every day.

Plus, if you can find one of those bigger paper clips, you can extend this to almost any other devices.  I was able to use it to hold up my Dell Axim so I think getting it work on a PSP should be a piece of cake.  Provide you're pretty good with arts and craft.  




Via Gizmodo (Life Hacker)

Mobile Tip: OpenDNS with Phishing Tools

Previously on Onxo, we shared with you some common sense tip and discussion on phishing and cyber thieves.  What we neglected to explain what phishing is for some of our more novice readers.  Phishing is an attempt by cyber thieves through e-mails or false websites designed to look like the real thing.  It could be a bank or a shopping portal like Amazon.  They look and feel like the same thing except once you click on it, the phishers will attempt to fright or simply cordially ask you to divulge information that will allow them to steal from you. 

Popular phishing attempts can come from eBay, Paypal, or a bank.  So, what's new Onxo can offer now?  Well, not Onxo but an article from Macworld that introduces a DNS service called OpenDNS, a free service with phishing tools.  How does this help mobile warriors and other computer users?

Basically, most of us are using the domain name server provided to us by our internet service provider (ISP).  Domain name servers (DNS) is an address book for the Internet.  Without getting into it much more, you can use the servers from OpenDNS with phishing protection that helps is always up and running and sorts through the DNS that are responsible for a lot of phishing activities.

Macworld, and Onxo agree, that this is a very valuable tool to have against cyberthreats and works with all browsers including Safari that was decried by Consumer Reports for not having phishing tools. 

What it all comes down to as we have said is common sense.  Most services will not ask for logins, passwords, and social security numbers directly over the Internet and if there is an issue, I've always found it prudent to call customer service to resolve it. 

Let us know if you're going to try OpenDNS and how it goes.

Note:  OpenDNS counts UPS and Kaiser Permanente as its customers.  Also, if you need help setting it up, Macworld has a simple guideline for OS X and OpenDNS has their own set of help at their support page.  For me, when I need help, I call my friend Dave but I was able to handle this one on my own. 

Look Ahead In Mobility

It has not been the kind of weekend I was expecting. I was busy but at the same time, I was able to squeeze in time on some relaxation and was able to get a few things done for myself. It also meant I was moving about a lot on my bike and with my iPhone and XO (kid at Starbucks pointed and laughed when I took out the XO to use).

I was able to catch up on last week's mobile computing, mobile Internet, and blogging development. It also gave me time to reflect on things such as the following topics that I was to share this coming week.

Radio and Internet Radio: I spend a lot time listening to the radio in the car and with iTunes at home and work. I wonder where it is going to go and where it'll go in the podcasting world we live in today.

Mesh:  Live Mesh and others. I mentioned it last week and this week, I hope to share more about Live Mesh and others like MobileMe.

Battery: battery saving tips. I can't live without my iPhone. Not quite there but it has made my life so much easier. But of the minor quirks about it one irks me mirr than others about it and that is its battery life. What can we do to extend it through out the a day of mobile work?

Palm: state of Palm. Bad. But just how bad? And what of hope of a turnaround? What we like to see in a turnaround. How about an Internet tablet like device along the line of an iPod Touch or the Nokia 800 series? Foleo have a future?

Of course we also see what ebook future holds. I am think of making it a weekly topic.

See you tomorrow!

iPod or MP3 Head Phone Saver (Mobility Tip)

I've been riding my bike quite often lately because of the coming $8 per gallon gasoline that we're going to get hit with.

But I still do listen to my iPod even when I'm riding but only through one ear so I can hear for the insane drivers in my city (I thought folks in West LA were insane with their BMWs.  The peeps in East LA are just as crazy if not more so with the Benz.  I like Torrance more).  I was nearly hit by a LA sheriff duty on Monday.  

But what gets to me is the line on the headset when I take the iPod out of my backpack.  I spent about five minutes try to untangle it before I can use it.  Now alas, there's a solutions.  Check out this video.  It'll save you and me a lot of time and frustration.

I tried it and it took me a couple of practice runs before I got it right.  Best solution until Bluetooth headsets become more common and cheaper.  

Thanks, Gnowk, for the tip.  

____________________________

My bike milage since 6/7:  23 miles, savings:  $13.11  (I'll will be depositing an equal amount at the end of every month.  Half will go towards UNICEF and half towards a new bike!)