Tuesday, February 25, 2014

23 mobile things thing #4

When using an RSS feeder to keep up with the news and other information, I used to use google reader. I was able to check on it through the web easily. When that left, I tried many other possibilities until I landed on Feedly. It doesn't work with internet explorer, but it does have a free Iphone app you can download. Until I got to this point in the 23 mobile things, I was content using this alone.

For this, I downloaded and tried Flipboard. The setup was fine, and I am able to view what I want. I was reluctant to try it because I am used to Feedly and can get all my news and technology info that way. However, after trying Flipboard, it does have things that Feedly doesn't. One example is the ability to see new books that are coming out as well as current books in categories such as reference, travel and nonfiction. This lets me keep up to date. This way, when I get asked for certain books, I have a clue about what it is.

My thought is that I will use both Feedly and Flipboard in the future. For times when I want to see quick and up to date news without extra stuff, I use Feedly. When I have time to read through multiple sources to get what I want, as well as look at things to help professionally, I will use Flipboard. Between the two, I should be able to stay well informed and in touch with the world. This is the point of the applications involved.

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

23 mobile things- thing#3 utilities

For this blog, I downloaded Red Laser. At first glance, I was hesitant because it didn't seem useful. However, after scanning a few barcodes for different products, I changed my mind. Personally, I could use it to track the ads and sales for a certain item and even check prices online. It also lets me scan qr codes and opens them in Safari.  Professionally, I could use it to create qr codes to advertise library programs and events. I could also use the scanner to check prices for people if they would rather buy an item instead of check it out, or if the library can't get it any longer. Another utility app I found and use is called iCatchall: 27+ apps in one. The most useful parts of this is the currency converter, the tip calculator, and the level. It also tells you when the next full moon is and has many fun sounds and games. Considering it's free, the price is well worth it.

Sunday, February 9, 2014

23 mobile things- thing#2

When thinking about my iphone 5, the tips given are really useful. Another one would be how to get the flashlight to work, through swiping up and choosing the right button. When closing apps by holding the home button and swiping each one, it is possible to do it sideways by sliding your finger to the right. Two can be closed at once as well. The tips shared allow me to make the best use of my iphone. Probably the only thing I still don't know how to do would be transfering pictures to a computer directly without using itunes.