Finnish company Nokia, once the absolute ruler of mobile phoneMARKET
, confirmed earlier this year that it would return to the smartphone market at the end of 2016. http://gtbensmag.com
Monday, November 30, 2015
WINDOWS 10 USERS CONSIDERING CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT AGAINST MICROSOFT FOR POOR SYSTEM PERFORMANCE
The Windows 10 experience has so far been very mixed for those who installed Microsoft’s new operating system, and while some claim this is the best OS version...... http://gtbensmag.com for full article
MKVTOOLNIX 8.6.1 OPEN SOURCE MKV SPLIT AND MERGE TOOL NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
Try this amazing app for splitting software and merging them back in one piece http://gtbensmag.com
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Apple finally launches iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s in Nigeria
Apple has finally made an official release of its new brand into the Nigerian market http://gtbensmag.com
Friday, November 27, 2015
MOZILLA: WE’RE NOT GETTING MONEY FROM GOOGLE ANY MORE BUT WE’RE DOING FINE
visit http://gtbensmag.com for full review
WHY MICROSOFT YANKED ITS LATEST WINDOWS 10 UPDATE DOWNLOAD: IT HIJACKED PRIVACY SETTINGS
http://gtbensmag.com for full article
FEDORA 24 LINUX TO SHIP WITH A LIVEMEDIA CREATOR TOOL FOR MAKING LIVE CDS
visit http://gtbensmag.com
ANDROID STUDIO 2.0 PREVIEW GIVES DEVELOPERS INSTANT PREVIEW OF CODE CHANGES
Visit http://gtbensmag.com
New Opera 34 Beta Is Based on Chromium 47.0.2526.58, Brings Linux and Mac Fixes
visit http://gtbensmag.com for full review
Will Steam Machine Solve Linux’s Gaming Woes?
Will Steam Machine Solve Linux’s Gaming Woes? http://gtbensmag.com
Linux-Powered C.H.I.P. Tiny SBC Will Be the World’s First $8 Computer
Get full review http://gtbensmag.com
First Unity 8 Custom Theme Is Being Built
An Ubuntu user is building the first Unity 8 theme and it looks like that’s not as difficult as people may believe, but the fact that it can...... http://gtbensmag.com
Five Things in Fedora This Week: HyperKitty, Elections, DevConf.cz, Wayland, and Python 3
These were recent events at Fedora this week http://gtbensmag.com
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Africa's Linux & open source community online
Join Africa's Linux and Open source community online. Ask questions, get a free Linux OS, solve tech issues and chat with other experts on our forum today. http://gtbensmag.com
Monday, November 23, 2015
Linus Torvalds Announces Linux Kernel 4.4 RC2 with PA-RISC Huge Page Support
New Linux Kernel is out as Linux Torvalds announce the release of Kernel 4.4 RC2 http://gtbensmag.com
Microsoft Extends open source & Linux support
Microsoft seems to have embraced Linux and open source development as it now makes available, tools needed for developing open source applications and testing on its platform. Visit http://gtbensmag.com for full story
Linux Australia suffers yet another data-leak
The umbrella organization for Linux user groups in the country suffered a data breach in March this year.
Hesketh said a limited amount of personal information had been leaked as a result of the breach. He said it was not related to the earlier breach.
Visit http://gtbensmag.com for more details
Hesketh said a limited amount of personal information had been leaked as a result of the breach. He said it was not related to the earlier breach.
Visit http://gtbensmag.com for more details
Our community feed back
Tell us what you want to read or see on our IT magazine online. New updates and news comming soon. http://gtbensmag.com
Thursday, November 19, 2015
10 reasons why Android Phones are better than iPhones & a BlackBerry
This is not a counter thread to what has been said about the Android but
a fact from technically sound Minds and an open source activist. To enjoy full review kindly visit http://gtbensmag.com/2015/07/03/10-reasons-why-android-phones-are-better-than-iphones-a-blackberry/
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Video games on SteamOS Linux
Want to play games on Linux? Try SteamOS and enjoy amazing 3D games and more http://gtbensmag.com
Ask Tech Questions on Nigeria's Linux Forum
Do you love Linux? Do you love open source and Tech news? Feel free to join our forum and post ideas, tech news or discoveries or better yet ask questions. Its open for everyone http://gtbensmag.com/chatrooms/
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Vote your Best Internet Service Provider in Nigeria
Tell us which is your best Internet Service provider by voting on our website today. Is it MTN, Globacom, Airtel, Etisalat or Vodacom? http://gtbensmag.com
Thursday, November 12, 2015
HOW TO CHECK YOUR NIGERIAN BANK ACCOUNT BALANCE USING YOU MOBILE PHONE
Online Banking offers flexibility in the way transactions are done. Before you go to the ATM to
either withdraw cash or confirm a payment you can actually check your account balance. For some
reason, alerts do not always show up. Sometimes we receive them quite late.
here is a list of some Nigerian Banks and how you can check your account balance via sms
either withdraw cash or confirm a payment you can actually check your account balance. For some
reason, alerts do not always show up. Sometimes we receive them quite late.
here is a list of some Nigerian Banks and how you can check your account balance via sms
1. Diamond Bank: – sms ‘PIN.BALANCE.ACCNO’ to 0803535 4177 or 08035354301. (no spacing)
(ATM Pin, Balance, Nuban Account number)
Regular sms charge. N4.00
(ATM Pin, Balance, Nuban Account number)
Regular sms charge. N4.00
2. GTBANK – sms PHONE Number (SPACE) Nuban Account Number to 08076665555
Please not: Must be the phone number you used for setting up the account and your NUBAN account number.
Regular sms charge. N4.00
Please not: Must be the phone number you used for setting up the account and your NUBAN account number.
Regular sms charge. N4.00
For other Banks, i will update you soonest as you have to register online or grant permission from your
Bank for this feature. Not to worry you can also check your Balance using Glo Magic Plus using the following steps;
Bank for this feature. Not to worry you can also check your Balance using Glo Magic Plus using the following steps;
1 Go to your phone Menu, select “Magic Plus” (Globacom users)
2. Under this menu select “M-Banking”
3. Use the display options from your phone such as “my phone bank”.
4. Now scroll to “My Bank”
5. You will receive a list of options like check balance, statements, recharge, change passcode etc.
6. Click on the “check balance” option
7. The next display should be “bank” with a space simply enter your bank name E.g FirstBank as (FBN), EcoBank (ECB)
Access Bank (ASB), Skye Bank (SKYB), United Bank for Africa (UBA) etc.
Access Bank (ASB), Skye Bank (SKYB), United Bank for Africa (UBA) etc.
8. Select your Account type “Savings” or “Current” and press OK
(Please note: Most domicilary accounts a current accounts)
(Please note: Most domicilary accounts a current accounts)
9. Your Phone will demand for a “passcode”
Usually your ATM pin or you can generate a passcode yourself.
Usually your ATM pin or you can generate a passcode yourself.
10. Wait as your request is being processed. It may take a while.
11. A confirmation message will be sent to your phone showing the following;
Name, Surname, Date your account was created, your last withdrawal and your balance.
Name, Surname, Date your account was created, your last withdrawal and your balance.
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10 REASONS WHY ANDROID PHONES ARE BETTER THAN IPHONES & A BLACKBERRY
This is not a counter thread to what has been said about the Android but a fact from technically sound Minds and an open source activist. Without further ado, here are 10 good reasons why Androids are the best phones out in any market today!
1. Android is Open Source
Open Source is not just a phrase for free software but a movement and culture for rapidly developing innovations in the IT industry without borders, race or limits. Imagine the potentials that lies in a stack of software or an application that is constantly under development by thousands of developers and programmers everyday and then refined into the enterprise market for use by the public. Two good heads are better than one and of cos we’re talking about core software developers globally. Apple nor Windows enjoy this culture and we’ve seen final releases of software that was a mess (Windows Vista, XP, Quicktime, Apple Server OS etc). On the other hand products like Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Ubuntu, Mozilla firefox, Google Chrome, Whatsapp, VLC Media Player, Androids etc have enjoyed steady growth and fame thanks to open source.
Open Source is not just a phrase for free software but a movement and culture for rapidly developing innovations in the IT industry without borders, race or limits. Imagine the potentials that lies in a stack of software or an application that is constantly under development by thousands of developers and programmers everyday and then refined into the enterprise market for use by the public. Two good heads are better than one and of cos we’re talking about core software developers globally. Apple nor Windows enjoy this culture and we’ve seen final releases of software that was a mess (Windows Vista, XP, Quicktime, Apple Server OS etc). On the other hand products like Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Ubuntu, Mozilla firefox, Google Chrome, Whatsapp, VLC Media Player, Androids etc have enjoyed steady growth and fame thanks to open source.
2. Steady Updates & Support
Just like we mentioned earlier, updates like that of any proprietary OS is under constant development but unlike other brands, patches, updates and new releases are focused on user expectations and experience because the users are actively involved in the development process. Nobody knows for sure what Apple is thinking for its new releases; same with Microsoft. As a Linux or open source developer, all you need do is join a forum or community and you will be well informed as to where a product is headed. Development from upstream projects are integrated into Enterprise versions or releases.
Just like we mentioned earlier, updates like that of any proprietary OS is under constant development but unlike other brands, patches, updates and new releases are focused on user expectations and experience because the users are actively involved in the development process. Nobody knows for sure what Apple is thinking for its new releases; same with Microsoft. As a Linux or open source developer, all you need do is join a forum or community and you will be well informed as to where a product is headed. Development from upstream projects are integrated into Enterprise versions or releases.
3. Longevity
We saw what happened to Symbian, Meego and Windows Mobile not too long ago. A proprietary software is subject to the wishes of its parent company. If sales drop or such a company wishes to discontinue development of such a product, the end users are left AWOL and CANNOT do anything about it. Would you want to fall into such category? Google may have been the front runner for Android development but other Brands have since emerged. Samsung, LG, HTC, Motorola and Techno are notable hardware manufacturers in Nigeria and also posses a team of developers each that taps in from upstream Android development on daily basis. From this logic, Androids will be around for quite some time if not a very long time.
We saw what happened to Symbian, Meego and Windows Mobile not too long ago. A proprietary software is subject to the wishes of its parent company. If sales drop or such a company wishes to discontinue development of such a product, the end users are left AWOL and CANNOT do anything about it. Would you want to fall into such category? Google may have been the front runner for Android development but other Brands have since emerged. Samsung, LG, HTC, Motorola and Techno are notable hardware manufacturers in Nigeria and also posses a team of developers each that taps in from upstream Android development on daily basis. From this logic, Androids will be around for quite some time if not a very long time.
4. Functionality & Performance
Android by far out-classes its competitors in functionality and performance. Lets not forget, Androids were designed from Linux codes or to perform like Linux but on top of Java. Linux is today’s best operating system for a lot of reasons though a lot of development is still on going which makes it even more interesting. Its free, offers free software on it, less expensive and very direct. Androids can do anything your iPhone will do plus much more. It rarely freezes and is easy to reboot, fix, share files/data, easy to port application, recover data or change hardware. It performs like a PC in so many instances and lets not forget, still under constant development.
Android by far out-classes its competitors in functionality and performance. Lets not forget, Androids were designed from Linux codes or to perform like Linux but on top of Java. Linux is today’s best operating system for a lot of reasons though a lot of development is still on going which makes it even more interesting. Its free, offers free software on it, less expensive and very direct. Androids can do anything your iPhone will do plus much more. It rarely freezes and is easy to reboot, fix, share files/data, easy to port application, recover data or change hardware. It performs like a PC in so many instances and lets not forget, still under constant development.
5. Affordable for all.
Now, for those people who love to show class and have everything customized or suit their needs; Androids has got something for you. For others who just need a good phone with modern day demands and easy internet access – you are not left out. Be it cheap Android phones or expensive metal Androids, a quality phone awaits you in price and functionality. Techno is a great phone manufacturer that falls into this category.
Now, for those people who love to show class and have everything customized or suit their needs; Androids has got something for you. For others who just need a good phone with modern day demands and easy internet access – you are not left out. Be it cheap Android phones or expensive metal Androids, a quality phone awaits you in price and functionality. Techno is a great phone manufacturer that falls into this category.
6. Good experience.
Androids offer really good experience as the OS evolves everyday but more importantly, there is no dull moment to it. No other mobile OS enjoys the vast amount of software stack available and gamers will definitely love owning an Android phone for this reason. Picture quality is high, Video Quality, Sound and lets not forget, its bound to get even better.
Androids offer really good experience as the OS evolves everyday but more importantly, there is no dull moment to it. No other mobile OS enjoys the vast amount of software stack available and gamers will definitely love owning an Android phone for this reason. Picture quality is high, Video Quality, Sound and lets not forget, its bound to get even better.
7. Largest Stack of Free Software.
Now compare and Android Plan to that of an iPhone. Androids are cheaper but besides that, Androids possess the largest pool of applications compared to other OS combined. Most of these applications are free as well and can be installed easily from Google Play or third party repositories. Unlike Windows Mobile, BlackBerry and iPhones where you will be mandated to make certain amount of payment just for installing applications you may end up not using nor appreciating.
Now compare and Android Plan to that of an iPhone. Androids are cheaper but besides that, Androids possess the largest pool of applications compared to other OS combined. Most of these applications are free as well and can be installed easily from Google Play or third party repositories. Unlike Windows Mobile, BlackBerry and iPhones where you will be mandated to make certain amount of payment just for installing applications you may end up not using nor appreciating.
8. Internet Bundle Plans.
Yes, Android Bundle plans are somewhat higher than that of a BlackBerry but cheaper than an iPhone for most service providers and hey! Look on the bright side, you can slot your Android Bundles directly to you modem and surf on or with your PC. All Android Bundles i know can be used on your computer too but this is not the case for iPhones or BlackBerry phones.
Yes, Android Bundle plans are somewhat higher than that of a BlackBerry but cheaper than an iPhone for most service providers and hey! Look on the bright side, you can slot your Android Bundles directly to you modem and surf on or with your PC. All Android Bundles i know can be used on your computer too but this is not the case for iPhones or BlackBerry phones.
9. Stability.
Coming from a Unix/Linux background, Android Phones are usually very stable when using. Remember the days of core Symbian and Java Phones where you constantly have to flash, reset or reload your phones? Virus or Trojan issues etc. The security of and Android phone can be optimized to a great extent.
Coming from a Unix/Linux background, Android Phones are usually very stable when using. Remember the days of core Symbian and Java Phones where you constantly have to flash, reset or reload your phones? Virus or Trojan issues etc. The security of and Android phone can be optimized to a great extent.
10. Easy to use.
It is rare to see users complaining about hot techy or complicated it is using an Android phone. Icons are easy to locate, programs can be easily restarted, navigation is simple, software installation and removal a piece of cake, updates seamless, files transfer is smooth, application sharing is even better, security is high or can be optimized, pairing devices is nothing to worry about, the list goes on and on. Compare this to an iPhone, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile and see for yourself.
It is rare to see users complaining about hot techy or complicated it is using an Android phone. Icons are easy to locate, programs can be easily restarted, navigation is simple, software installation and removal a piece of cake, updates seamless, files transfer is smooth, application sharing is even better, security is high or can be optimized, pairing devices is nothing to worry about, the list goes on and on. Compare this to an iPhone, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile and see for yourself.
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HOW TO FLASH/RESET A LUMIA, WINDOWS, IPHONE, BLACKBERRY, ANDROID
About 85 percent of Internet users use a Smartphone and Sometimes it’s really painful when your device starts
malfunctioning and the last resort is to reset the Phone. Some People Don’t Know How to do that so I decided to share this.
Be careful. Resetting your phone will erase all content stored on your phone, including apps and games (along with
app data and game progress), text messages, call history, music, photos and more.
Windows Phones
To reset your phone
1. In the App list , tap Settings .
2. Tap About , then tap Reset your phone .
3. You’ll receive two warnings. If you’re absolutely sure you want to restore your phone to its factory settings, tap Yes, then tap Yes again.
It might take a little while for the process to complete.
To reset an unresponsive phone: If your phone is unresponsive and you can’t reach Settings , you may be able to reset your phone using the hardware buttons. On Nokia Lumia phones (and some others), do the following to reset your phone:
1. Press and hold the Volume down and Power buttons at the same time until you feel a vibration (about 10-15 seconds).
2. When you feel the vibration, immediately press and hold the Volume down button until you see a large
exclamation mark.
3. Once the exclamation mark appears, press the following four buttons in this order: Volume up , Volume down, Power , Volume down . Your phone should now reset and restart itself. (It might take a while for
the reset to finish.)
Android Phones
Each Phone Has It’s restore method. The one that works for most phones.
Turn off the phone.
Hold the volume up button and power button at the same time.
You’ll See An Android Logo
Tap Any Of The Buttons On Your Phone To Reveal A Secret Menu
Scroll Down To clear data/reset or clear eemcc (this might vary depending on the type of phone) and select it (try using volume up to select if it fails use the home key)
Scroll down to yes and select it. It might take some time though Your Phone Should Now Be Restored.
iPhone
Go to “Settings” Select “General” Scroll down to select “Reset”. Here you will have various options, the main ones being:
Reset All Settings
Reset Network Settings
Erase All content and Settings
Selecting ” Erase All Content and
Settings” is what constitutes a Hard Reset. Your phone will ask you to enter your passcode, and will then ask to confirm.
BlackBerry
There are 3 main ways to do this
Method 1 (BlackBerry Z10 and the likes of it)
Remove the battery from the phone.You can perform a hard reset on the BlackBerry Z10 by pressing and holding the Power button on the top of the phone for about 10 seconds.
Reinsert the battery after a few seconds. To be on the safe side, wait for up to 30
seconds and then reinsert the battery into the back of the phone.
Close the battery cover. The BlackBerry should reboot and function normally. You
may have to power the BlackBerry back on with the Power button.
Method 2
Hold down these Keys in this order
Alt, Right Shift Key, Delete/Back Space
Method 3
Open the Options on your home screen. Performing a full factory reset, or security wipe, will remove all of your personal info and reset the phone to the state it was in when it was first turned on.
Select Security Settings. In the Security Settings menu, select Security WipeChoose what you want erased. Check the boxes for each of the items that you want wiped from the phone. If you want to completely erase your information, ensure that all of the boxes are checked. Enter the code. To perform the wipe, you will need to enter the code. Type
“blackberry” into the box and then select Wipe.
Wait for the phone to reboot We’re working on how to format a Chinese Android Phone, Once We Come Up With It, the information would be shared.
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malfunctioning and the last resort is to reset the Phone. Some People Don’t Know How to do that so I decided to share this.
app data and game progress), text messages, call history, music, photos and more.
1. In the App list , tap Settings .
2. Tap About , then tap Reset your phone .
3. You’ll receive two warnings. If you’re absolutely sure you want to restore your phone to its factory settings, tap Yes, then tap Yes again.
exclamation mark.
the reset to finish.)
Hold the volume up button and power button at the same time.
Reset All Settings
Reset Network Settings
Erase All content and Settings
Selecting ” Erase All Content and
Settings” is what constitutes a Hard Reset. Your phone will ask you to enter your passcode, and will then ask to confirm.
Reinsert the battery after a few seconds. To be on the safe side, wait for up to 30
seconds and then reinsert the battery into the back of the phone.
Close the battery cover. The BlackBerry should reboot and function normally. You
may have to power the BlackBerry back on with the Power button.
Alt, Right Shift Key, Delete/Back Space
“blackberry” into the box and then select Wipe.
VODACOM NIGERIA TO HIT BENIN
Vodacom is set to commence operations in Benin City – Nigeria before the end of December 2015. The Telecoms giant made a late but significant entry in to Nigeria’s Telecoms market as a fifth operator but getting warm reception from the public. A brief history of Vodacom is listed below.
Vodacom Group Limited (Vodacom) is an African mobile communications company, providing voice, messaging, data and converged services to over 55 million customers. From its roots in South Africa, Vodacom has grown its operations to include networks in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, and Lesotho and provides business services to customers in over 40 African countries such as Nigeria, Zambia, Angola, Kenya, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. It was owned on a 50:50 basis by the South African telecommunications group Telkom and the British mobile phone operator Vodafone.[2][3] On 6 November 2008 Vodafone announced that it had agreed to increase its stake to 65%, and Telkom said that it would spin off its remaining holding by listing it on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.[4] On April 1, 2011, Vodacom officially unveiled its new change in branding from blue to red, using the same style as its parent company, Vodafone.[5]
Vodacom provides coverage to Mount Kilimanjaro, which used to make it the highest point in the world to be covered by GSM. It no longer is, as TeliaSonera now provides coverage at the top ofMount Everest, the highest point in the world. Vodacom was aided by its optimistic advertisements at the early stages of the democratic South Africa, this includes the yebo gogo campaign which is still in effect today in South Africa. Vodacom is the leading cellular network in South Africa with an estimated market share of 58% and more than 23 million customers.
Emeka Bethel http://gtbensmag.com
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DABENGWA – MTN GROUP CEO RESIGNS OVER NCC’S N1.04TN FINE
MTN Group President and Chief Executive Officer, Sifiso Dabengwa, resigned on Monday morning over the N1.04tn fine imposed on MTN Nigeria by the country’s regulatory body – the Nigerian Communications Commission.
A credible source at the MTN Group office told our correspondent that the company subsequently appointed Phuthuma Nhleko as Executive Chairman in a temporary capacity.
He said Nhleko, the current Non-executive Chairman, has agreed to act as Executive Chairman for a maximum period of six months while the company identifies a successor for Dabengwa.
A copy of Dabengwa’s resignation letter was made available to our correspondent.
It read in parts, “Due to the most unfortunate prevailing circumstances occurring at MTN Nigeria, I, in the interest of the company and its shareholders, have tendered my resignation with immediate effect.”
Officials at MTN said Nhleko was no stranger to the business as he served as non-executive director and chairman of MTN from July 2001 until June 2002 and thereafter as an executive director, Group president and CEO until March 2011. He has subsequently chaired the Group in a non-executive capacity for the past two and a half years (since May 29, 2013).
“I will assume responsibility as Executive Chairman for the next six months as I proactively deal with the Nigerian regulator and will continue to work with them in addressing the issues around unregistered subscribers as a matter of urgency,” Nhleko said in his acceptance letter.
The PUNCH gathered that Mr. Alan van Biljon would continue to serve as the Lead Independent Director on the MTN board of directors (MTN Board), while Nhleko takes over executive responsibility.
“Together with the MTN Board, my second priority will be to find an appropriate Chief Executive Officer to take MTN forward. I will then revert to my Non-executive Chairman role,” Nhleko added.
”Stakeholders are reminded that MTN will continue to inform them of any material engagements with the Nigerian authorities via the Stock Exchange News Service of the JSE Limited.
“Shareholders are advised to continue to exercise caution when dealing in the company’s securities until a further announcement is made,” the source added.
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HOW TO CHECK YOUR BVN USING YOUR MOBILE PHONE
BVN stands for Bank Verification Number. In line with directives from the Central Bank of Nigeria, a 10 digit number for identifying each customer has been implemented to eschew fraudulent activities and enhance strict monitoring of financial activities in the country. A customer with more than one bank account can register for his/her BVN in a particular Bank and is then mandated to link his BVN upon reception to other Bank accounts if he patronizes different banks. For Mobile phone users who have registered, getting your BVN number is as easy as dialing a short code. DialUSSD code *565*0# to view your BVN with the same phone number used for registration.
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REVIEW: DELL CHROMEBOOK 13 VS. TOSHIBA CHROMEBOOK 2
Chromebooks provide a dead-simple way to get online and get stuff done — but the process of picking out a Chromebook has gotten increasingly complicated over the years.
Chromebook Reviews
Chromebook Reviews
One look through Google’s Chromebook device page tells you all you need to know: There are tons of different models out there — and at a glance, most of them look pretty similar. Heck, I keep an eye on these things as part of my job (and spend time using most of them, too!), and even I have trouble keeping track of the differences.
Two of this fall’s new Chromebooks, however, definitely stand out from the pack. One is Toshiba’s 2015 Chromebook 2, an updated version of the device that’s been my go-to Chromebook recommendation for the past year. The other is Dell’s Chromebook 13, a new laptop that brings a touch of luxury to the midrange Chromebook realm.
The systems have a lot in common, but they also have some important differences. First is their price: Toshiba’s Chromebook starts at $330, while Dell’s starts at $429. (Dell has been promoting a lower-level $399 version of its device, which, as of this writing, was due to ship at the end of November.)
So between the $330 and the $429 Chromebooks, what does that extra hundred bucks get you — and is it worth your while? After spending the past several weeks using both the Toshiba Chromebook 2 and the Dell Chromebook 13, the answer is quite clear.
Let’s break it all down:
On the outside: Build quality and design
On the outside: Build quality and design
Toshiba’s new Chromebook 2 looks and feels almost identical to its predecessor, with a plastic body and a textured plastic lid. The build quality is slightly better than most systems in its price range, but it’s nothing to write home about. The same can be said for the device’s design, which is okay but unexceptional.
Dell’s Chromebook 13 is a different story. The laptop has a carbon-fiber cover and an aluminum-magnesium body that work together to make the system stylish and approachable, as well as exceptionally sturdy. It’s by no means at the level of build quality or design of a high-end system like Google’s $1,000 Chromebook Pixel, but it’s a really nice laptop — and a meaningful step above every other system in the sub-$500 class.
dell chromebook 13
Dell
dell chromebook 13
Dell
Dell Chromebook 13
Dell’s laptop is the larger of the two devices, at 12.9 x 9.0 x 0.72 in. compared to the Toshiba’s 12.6 x 8.4 x 0.76 in. frame. It’s also heavier, at 3.23 lbs. vs. Toshiba’s 2.97 lbs. In real-world terms, those differences are pretty subtle: The Dell device does feel a bit bulkier — as you’d expect, given its materials — but neither system is especially svelte.
While these devices may not win any awards for thinness, they fall into a good middle-ground size when it comes to most typical use. They’re big enough to give you ample room to work, which isn’t always the case with the more common 11-in. Chromebook models — but at the same time, they’re small enough to remain easily portable and fit effortlessly into a bag, which is something you sacrifice once you start getting into larger desktop-replacement-style devices.
Both Chromebooks are also comfortable to use on your lap or on a table. In either position, everything about the Dell’s construction feels noticeably more premium than the Toshiba’s — from the strength and stability of its large hinge, which opens with ease and keeps the screen completely still during use, to the base area around its keyboard, which has a surprisingly soft texture that feels smooth and pleasant under your hands.
The Toshiba Chromebook is certainly fine in those regards — just more “okay for the cost” as opposed to “spectacular.” Its screen can get a little shaky as a result of its two-piece hinge, and the plastic surface of its base is serviceable but nothing special.
Inside the lid: Display, keyboard, trackpad and speakers
Inside the lid: Display, keyboard, trackpad and speakers
Once you get past the surface, things start to look much more similar between the Dell and Toshiba Chromebooks. Both laptops have excellent 13.3-in. 1080p IPS displays, for instance — a distinction that goes a long way in setting them apart from most affordable Chrome OS systems. The screens are crisp, clear and richly colored. Once your eyes get used to their level of quality, you won’t be able to tolerate the dull and grainy TN-based displays on the majority of inexpensive laptops.
The displays on the Dell and Toshiba Chromebooks are really quite comparable, with one noteworthy exception: The Dell’s screen has a matte finish, while the Toshiba’s display is glossy and reflective. I wouldn’t call either approach inherently better; image quality and viewing angles on the two are similarly superb, and there’s little to complain about with either panel. It’s mainly just a matter of personal preference (if you even have a strong leaning either way; most people probably won’t give it an ounce of thought).
Both systems have a fair amount of plastic bezel surrounding their displays, with an HD Webcam in the center of the top portion. The devices’ keyboards are in the same general league, too: plasticky but satisfying to type on and backlit for optimal evening use. The backlighting on the Dell looks a bit better, but either setup will get the job done (and you can actually adjust the lighting level on either device by holding the Alt key and pressing the brightness up or down key in the function row). The Toshiba keyboard has slightly larger keys with a softer-feeling finish, but like the quality of the backlighting, it really isn’t a make-or-break factor.
03 toshiba chromebook 2
Toshiba
03 toshiba chromebook 2
Toshiba
Toshiba Chromebook 2
Far more significant is the difference in the devices’ trackpads. The Dell Chromebook’s is made of glass and feels just incredible under your fingers. You may never have considered a trackpad to be a highlight of a laptop, but after using this Chromebook, you will. The Toshiba device’s is ordinary in comparison — made of plastic and about on par with what you see on most lower-end Chromebooks. It’s accurate and easy to use but in a very different class from Dell’s.
Both laptops have impressive speakers that are loud and fairly full-sounding (as laptop speakers go). I’d give the edge in audio quality to the Toshiba: Its speakers are artfully hidden beneath its keyboard, which allows sound to be directed toward you without the need for any ugly visible grilles.
The Dell Chromebook has speakers on either side of its bottom, which isn’t nearly as ideal of a placement — but they’re on the outer edges of the surface, at least, and so they usually avoid getting muffled entirely. Still, while the laptop’s audio is reasonably decent in and of itself, it ends up sounding markedly less loud and clear than the Toshiba Chromebook’s when you listen to the one right after the other.
Under the hood: Performance, storage, stamina and ports
Under the hood: Performance, storage, stamina and ports
Dell and Toshiba both offer varying levels of processing power with their new Chromebooks. I’ll make that part of the decision easy for you: The only models you really need to consider are the base-level models I mentioned at the start of this review — the $429 Dell Chromebook 13, which has an Intel Celeron 3205U processor and 4GB of RAM, and the $330 Toshiba Chromebook 2, which has an Intel Celeron 3215U processor and 4GB of RAM.
(On the Toshiba, the specific model you want is the CB35-C3300. Since last year’s device is also called the Chromebook 2 — and appears almost identical in outward appearance — it’s worth double-checking to make sure you’re looking at the current model and not the older version.)
Those almost-identical setups are more than capable of handling even the most demanding needs — like my own anything-but-average style of working, which tends to include frequent switching between as many as 15 to 20 simultaneously open tabs. I’ve used both systems from morning to night in that manner and things have been consistently smooth and snappy, without a single slowdown or sign of lag on either device. Both laptops are fairly quiet during use, too, and neither gets especially hot.
(Technically, Toshiba’s processor is a slight step ahead of Dell’s, as it has a higher operating frequency, but don’t read too much into those sorts of spec-sheet details. In terms of real-word performance, the laptops are essentially the same — even with a direct side-by-side comparison.)
For the vast majority of people, upgrading to a model with a more powerful chip or additional RAM isn’t going to make enough of a noticeable difference to be worth the extra cost. If you want to spend more money — especially in the range of $600 to $900, as Dell’s higher-level configurations climb — you’d be better off bumping up to the high-end Pixel and gaining the top-of-the-line hardware, design and display it provides (all of which will be far more meaningful than the added processing power alone in day-to-day use).
In the configurations I’m reviewing, both laptops have 16GB of internal storage space along with a slot for external storage (regular, mini or micro SD on the Toshiba and — somewhat strangely — micro SD-only on the Dell). They both also include 100GB of Google Drive cloud storage for two years, which would cost about $48 if you paid for it outright.
We’ve got one more significant point of differentiation to cover and that’s stamina: The Toshiba Chromebook 2 does admirably well, with a quoted 8.5 hours of battery life per charge and real-world results generally ranging between 6.5 to 7 hours for me. The Dell Chromebook 13, meanwhile, is outstanding: It’s listed for a whopping 12 hours of use per charge, and I’ve been clocking in somewhere between 10 and 12 hours total on most days.
Remember, too, that my usage tends to be unusually resource-intensive and heavy on multitasking, so if you’re more prone to keeping just one or two tabs open at a time — the way most people use a Chromebook — you’ll probably be able to stretch things out even longer. Even with demanding use, though, both systems provide respectable battery life, with the Dell taking the clear lead in terms of true all-day computing.
I should also mention that each laptop uses its own proprietary charger, which may be a bummer to anyone hoping to move toward the up-and-coming universal USB Type-C standard. Thus far, the 2015 Pixel is the only Chromebook to feature such a connection.
Last but not least, the Dell and Toshiba Chromebooks share the same set of ports and connectors: one USB 2.0 port, one USB 3.0 port, a dedicated HDMI-out port, a headphone jack and a security lock slot.
Bottom line
Bottom line
If you’re looking for the best all-around Chromebook you can buy short of $1,000 right now, Dell’s Chromebook 13 is, without a doubt, it. The laptop redefines what a midrange Chromebook can be, with a combination of solid performance, a high-quality display and elevated build quality. If you have $429 to spend, it’s the one you want to get.
Toshiba’s Chromebook 2 offers the same level of performance and the same caliber of display in a less premium package. You’re getting a device that’s just as capable — only not as nice to use (and with less outstanding, though still generally quite sufficient, stamina). By accepting that tradeoff, you’re keeping an extra $100 in your wallet.
All considered, I’d say this: The Toshiba Chromebook is certainly good enough for most casual computing purposes, and if cost is a concern, I wouldn’t hesitate to get it. If you can justify the extra $100, though, the Dell Chromebook will give you a meaningfully better overall experience. Things like premium materials and a top-of-the-line trackpad make a laptop significantly more pleasant to use — and given the choice, that’s undoubtedly what you want.
With their potent mixes of performance, portability, quality and value, these two devices are the most advisable Chromebook purchases for most people right now. The only real question is how much you’re looking to spend.
By JR Raphael http://gtbensmag.com
5 OPEN SOURCE ALTERNATIVES MAIL SERVERS TO GMAIL
Gmail has enjoyed phenomenal success, and regardless of which study you choose to look at for exact numbers, there’s no doubt that Gmail is towards the top of the pack when it comes to market share. For certain circles, Gmail has become synonymous with email, or at least with webmail. Many appreciate its clean interface and the simple ability to access their inbox from anywhere.
FOR MORE OPEN SOURCE EMAIL CLIENTS, SEE OUR COMPLETE COLLECTION.
But Gmail is far from the only name in the game when it comes to web-based email clients. In fact, there are a number of open source alternatives available for those who want more freedom, and occasionally, a completely different approach to managing their email without relying on a desktop client.
Let’s take a look at just a few of the free, open source webmail clients out there available for you to choose from.
ROUNDCUBE
First up on the list is Roundcube. Roundcub is a modern webmail client which will install easily on a standard LAMP (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP) stack. It features a drag-and-drop interface which generally feels modern and fast, and comes with a slew of features: canned responses, spell checking, translation into over 70 languages, a templating system, tight address book integration, and many more. It also features a pluggable API for creating extensions.
It comes with a comprehensive search tool, and a number of features on the roadmap, from calendaring to a mobile UI to conversation view, all sound promising, but at the moment these missing features do hold it back a bit compared to some other options.
Roundcube is available as open source under the GPLv3.
Roundcube screenshot courtesy of the project’s website.
ZIMBRA
The next client on the list is Zimbra, which I have used extensively for work. Zimbra includes both a webmail client and an email server, so if you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, it may be a good choice.
Zimbra is a well maintained project which has been hosted at a number of different corporate entities through the years, most recently being acquired by a company called Synacore, last month. It features most of the things you’ve come to expect in a modern webmail client, from webmail to folders to contact lists to a number of pluggable extensions, and generally works very well. I have to admit that I’m most familiar with an older version of Zimbra which felt at times slow and clunky, especially on mobile, but it appears that more recent versions have overcome these issues and provide a snappy, clean interface regardless of the device you are using. A desktop client is also available for those who prefer a more native experience. For more on Zimbra, see this article from from Zimbra’s Olivier Thierry who shares a good deal more about Zimbra’s role in the open source community.
Zimbra’s web client is licensed under a Common Public Attribution License, and the server code is available under GPLv2.
Zimbra screenshot courtesy of Clemente under the GNU Free Documentation License.
SQUIRRELMAIL
I have to admit, SquirrelMail (self-described as “webmail for nuts”) does not have all of the bells and whistles of some more modern email clients, but it’s simple to install and use and therefore has been my go-to webmail tool for many years as I’ve set up various websites and needed a mail client that was easy and “just works.” As I am no longer doing client work and shifted towards using forwarders instead of dedicated email accounts for personal projects, I realized it had been awhile since I took a look at SquirrelMail. For better or for worse, it’s exactly where I left it.
SquirrelMail started in 1999 as an early entry into the field of webmail clients, with a focus on low resource consumption on both the server and client side. It requires little in the way of special extensions of technologies to be used, which back in the time it was created was quite important, as browsers had not yet standardized in the way we expect them to be by today’s standards. The flip side of its somewhat dated interface is that it has been tested and used in production environments for many years, and is a good choice for someone who wants a webmail client with few frills but few headaches to administer.
SquirrelMail is written in PHP and is licensed under the GPL.
SquirrelMail screenshot courtesy of the project website.
RAINLOOP
Next up is Rainloop. Rainloop is a very modern entry into the webmail arena, and its interface is definitely closer to what you might expect if you’re used to Gmail or another commercial email client. It comes with most features you’ve come to expect, including email address autocompletion, drag-and-drop and keyboard interfaces, filtering support, and many others, and can easily be extended with additional plugins. It integrates with other online accounts like Facebook, Twitter, Google, and Dropbox for a more connected experience, and it also renders HTML emails very well compared to some other clients I’ve used, which can struggle with complex markup.
It’s easy to install, and you can try Rainloop in an online demo to decide if it’s a good fit for you.
Rainloop is primarily written in PHP, and the community edition is licensed under the AGPL. You can also check out the source code on GitHub.
Rainloop screenshot by author.
KITE
The next webmail client we look at is Kite, which unlike some of the other webmail clients on our list was designed to go head-to-head with Gmail, and you might even consider it a Gmail clone. While Kite hasn’t fully implemented all of Gmail’s many features, you will instantly be familiar with the interface. It’s easy to test it out with Vagrant in a virtual machine out of the box.
Unfortunately, development on Kite seems to have stalled about a year ago, and no new updates have been made to the project since. However, it’s still worth checking out, and perhaps someone will pick up the project and run with it.
Kite is written in Python and is licensed under a BSD license. You can check out the source code on GitHub.
MORE OPTIONS
- HastyMail is an older email client, originating back in 2002, which is written in PHP and GPL-licensed. While no longer maintained, the project’s creators have gone on to a new webmail project, Cypht, which also looks promising.
- Mailpile is an HTML 5 email client, written in Python and available under the AGPL. Currently in beta, Mailpile has a focus on speed and privacy.
- WebMail Lite is a modern but minimalist option, licensed under the AGPL and written mostly in PHP.
- There are also a number of groupware solutions, such as Horde, which provide webmail in addition to other collaboration tools.
This is by no means a comprehensive list. What’s your favorite open source webmail client?
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