Rick's Daily Tips

Google releases 64 bit version of the Chrome web browser

Posted on August 28, 2014

Google has finally released a 64 bit version of their popular Chrome web browser, and after putting it through its paces it appears to be a lot faster and more stable than the 32 bit version that we’ve all been using for so long.

Let me tell you, this is one fast browser!

There are other enhancements in the new version as well, one of my favorites being much crisper text on high-DPI monitors. But the increases in speed and stability are by far the most important of all the enhancements. [Read more…]

Apple admits some iPhone 5 batteries are defective. If yours is one of them, they’ll replace it for free.

Posted on August 23, 2014

iphone-5 Apple has just announced that some iPhone 5 smart phones were shipped with defective batteries that won’t charge up correctly and lose their charge too quickly.

The defective batteries were only shipped in a relatively small number of phones, but if yours is one them, Apple will replace the battery for you at no charge.

The first thing you need to do is determine if your iPhone 5 is on Apple’s list of phone’s that shipped with the bad battery. If it is, I recommend that you take advantage of Apple’s free battery replacement program right away. [Read more…]

Q&A: Can I use an Acer keyboard with my Android tablet?

Posted on August 21, 2014

Question from R. Saravanan: I’m using an Acer keyboard that’s connected to my PC which is running Windows 7.

Can this keyboard be used as an external keyboard with a tablet running version 4.0.4 of the Android O.S.?

Rick’s answer: My short answer to your question is “probably”. Now, I’ll take a moment to expand on that… [Read more…]

Q&A: Can I install Ubuntu Linux on my laptop without using the optical drive?

Posted on August 17, 2014

Question from Terry G.: Rick, I have an older Dell laptop with Windows XP installed. I want to take your advice and replace Windows with Ubuntu Linux, but I have a problem. The Dell’s DVD drive is broken and no longer works.

My question is how can I install Ubuntu on my laptop without using a Linux installation disc?

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: Is there a way to delete the Facebook Messenger app from my iPad?

Posted on August 16, 2014

Question from Pat M.: Rick, is there a way to delete Facebook Messenger from my iPad?

Rick’s answer: There sure is Pat. Lots of folks are ditching the official Facebook Messenger app and switching to third party messaging apps instead.

My preferred method of completely eradicating the Facebook Messenger app from an iOS device is below. Please give it a try and let me know if it works for you.

Follow these steps to remove the Facebook Messenger app from your iPad: [Read more…]