These days we often replace rather than repair
I’m old enough to remember the “Maytag repairman” commercials that ran from 1967 to 1989 in which the repairman was “the loneliest man in town” because, the commercials claimed, Maytag …
personal technology
Tech can sometimes be too complicated
Sometimes when I try out a new product or even one that I’ve had for a while, it occurs to me that it was probably designed by a 20-something tech-savvy …
Larry Magid: Obsessed with label makers
There is an episode of the Big Bang Theory where Sheldon puts a label on his label maker and then a smaller label to designate where the label is. I’m …
Mixed feelings about bill to limit smartphones in school
I have mixed feelings about California’s AB 3216 titled “Pupils: use of smartphones.” The bi-partisan bill, which Gov. Newsom has indicated he will sign, would require school districts to develop …
How to type faster on a smartphone
I started typing when I was in elementary school and took a typing class in what we used to call “junior high.” And I’m good at it, as long as …
Keeping cool with AC, evaporative coolers, fans and an app
I’ve been living in the Bay Area since 1981, and until about four years ago, it never occurred to me to invest in air conditioning. But recent extreme heat and …
The Balkanization of Messaging Apps
A few days ago someone said they had sent me a message. I checked my text messaging apps and there was nothing there. I also checked my email and, again, …
Earbuds vs headphones and other personal listening devices
I love the sound from my Google Pixel Buds Pro earbuds but it’s a miracle I still have them. Over the past several months at least one of them has …
How to manage an EV battery
Based on what I’ve seen on forums, there is a lot of confusion about EV battery maintenance along with plenty of “range anxiety.” Here are some basic facts about EV …
Tech can be boring, but it’s getting interesting
As someone who has been writing about tech for more than 40 years, I’ve seen ebbs and flows when it comes to how interesting it is. I have to admit, …