Latest articles by Jerry Hildenbrand
Google needs to build a new Nest Hub with Gemini Nano
Android & Chill An improved Nest Hub with on-device AI would shake up the home assistant market. Google could do it, but will it?
Best smart light switches that don't require a neutral wire in 2024
For older homes No neutral wire in your switch box? We have you covered. Here are the smart light switch brands that work without a neutral wire to constantly power them.
How much RAM does your Android phone actually need in 2024?
Thanks for the memory You don't need a lot of RAM in a phone, but you probably will want to have a good bit of it.
If TikTok is banned, a VPN may not be the solution you're looking for
Tick, tock ... If TikTok gets banned, a VPN may work if you want to connect inside the U.S., but only if the government isn't serious.
Ask Jerry: When it's time to buy a new phone
Ask Jerry Using a phone as long as you can is a great idea. But eventually, you just have to upgrade.
Why is net neutrality so important?
Android & Chill The FCC has voted to restore net neutrality regulations and has classified the broadband data providers as a "Title II telecommunications service." Here's why that matters.
Does it help to force close apps on your phone?
How it works Your phone's operating system manages apps and resources on it's own, and it's pretty good at doing it.
Ask Jerry: What to do when your phone is acting up
Ask Jerry When your phone has hardware issues, where to get help depends on a few things.
The big lie of sustainable tech
Android & Chill Tech companies love to throw out words like sustainable. The products they sell are anything but.
The ultimate guide to Android security: Everything you need to know
Stay safe! Your phone is filled with private and potentially sensitive data about your life. Here's what you need to know about how it all works.
What is virtual RAM, and should you use it?
Life in the slow lane Your phone might have a feature claiming to add virtual memory. How does that work and is it something you need?
Ask Jerry: How to fight email spam
Ask Jerry Spam in your inbox is a pain and nobody wants to see it. But you do have ways to deal with it.
Mobile broadband and 5G is still a mess
Android & Chill Years later, the state of high-speed internet in North America is still less than ideal for many.
Two-factor authentication (2FA): Everything you need to know
It's really me You should use two-factor authentication (2FA) on every account that offers it. Here's an explainer of what it is and why you want it.
How does Google's new Find My Device network actually work, and why should you care?
Lost and Found Google has offered a way to locate lost phones for years, but the feature has seen a big update that makes it a lot better.
Ask Jerry: Will Google help me access a loved one's data after they pass away?
Ask Jerry Have a question about the tech in your life? If so, maybe we can get them answered!
How to update the software on your Google Pixel phone
Easy updates One of the best parts of owning a Google Pixel is its regular software updates. Here's how you can make sure you never miss one.
Taking photos of the eclipse with your phone is easier than you think
Android & Chill A few cheap tools and these simple directions is all you really need.
What is a SIM PIN code and can you unlock a SIM card with a PIN?
Sim pin Add a SIM PIN to your SIM card and get an extra layer of protection.
What you need to know about data breaches and how to protect yourself
Protecting yourself You can't control how other companies treat your data. Here's what you need to know when it ends up in the wrong hands.
Bluetooth audio terms and codecs explained: aptX, LDAC, LC3, and everything else
Bluetooth codecs explained! There's a lot of science and tech inside your phone that makes the sound enjoyable. We explain Bluetooth audio codecs so you know what's happening when you connect!
Ask Jerry: What data survives a factory reset?
Ask Jerry Have a question about the tech in your life? If so, maybe we can get them answered!
Global AI resolution is a step forward, but there is a long road ahead
Android & Chill The United Nation's Global Resolution on AI is a good first step towards responsible and ethical AI, but it needs to be more than a suggestion.
