Archive for December, 2006

SoonR helps link your cell to computer

Monday, December 25th, 2006

by Larry Magid

Special to the Mercury News

December 25, 2006

As I’ve said in the past, cell phones are evolving into pocket-size computers. But now, thanks to a free service from Campbell-based SoonR, you can use any Web-enabled cell phone to access data and some applications that are running on your regular-size PC or Mac.

SoonR, which you can access at www.soonr.com, allows you to use your phone to view photographs stored on your computer along with documents from several applications including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Windows users can access e-mail, contacts or the calendar from Outlook, and both Mac and Windows users can make free or low-cost international calls using the copy of Skype that’s running on your home or office computer. (more…)

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How Much Is That Cell Phone?

Tuesday, December 19th, 2006

by Larry Magid

Dec. 19, 2006

Cell phones are popular holiday gifts but before you buy a friend or family member the latest cool phone, think about what your cell phone gift can give (i.e., what can it do?) and what it can take away (how much will it cost to own and use).Carriers can give you a subsidy if you bundle the phone with service or extend your (or your recipient’s) contract, typically for two years. The downside of such deals can be a loss of flexibility, if you wind up stuck with an extended contract.

And don’t forget taxes: depending on where you live, they can add a hefty amount to the monthly bill. Doesn’t hurt to find out how much the tax will be, when figuring out whether your loved one (or you) can afford it. (more…)

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