In today’s fast-paced world, technology is an essential part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, we rely on these devices for work, communication, and entertainment. So when these devices break down, it can be a major inconvenience. That’s why it’s important to have access to quick and convenient tech repairs near you. Here are some tips for finding the best tech repair services in your area.
Local Repair Shops
by Alesia Kaz (https://unsplash.com/@alesiaskaz)
One of the most convenient options for tech repairs is to find a local repair shop near you. These shops often specialize in specific types of devices, such as smartphones or laptops, and can provide quick and efficient repairs. They may also offer same-day or next-day services, so you can get your device back up and running in no time. Additionally, local repair shops often have competitive pricing and may offer discounts for repeat customers.
Mobile Repair Services
Another convenient option for tech repairs is to use a mobile repair service. These services come to you, whether it’s at your home, office, or a public location. This eliminates the need to travel to a repair shop and can save you time and hassle. Mobile repair services also tend to have flexible hours, making it easier to fit a repair into your busy schedule. Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable and reliable service.
Online Repair Services
In today’s digital age, there are also many online repair services available. These services allow you to ship your device to them for repairs, and they will ship it back to you once it’s fixed. While this may not be as convenient as local or mobile repair options, it can still be a quick and efficient way to get your device fixed. Just be sure to read reviews and check the company’s policies before sending your device to them.
DIY Repairs
For those who are tech-savvy and have the time and patience, DIY repairs may be an option. There are many online tutorials and guides available for fixing common tech issues, and you can often find replacement parts online. However, this option may not be suitable for more complex repairs, and there is a risk of causing further damage to your device. If you do choose to attempt a DIY repair, be sure to research thoroughly and proceed with caution.
Of course, the best way to avoid the inconvenience of tech repairs is to take preventative measures. This includes using protective cases and screen protectors for your devices, regularly backing up important data, and keeping your devices updated with the latest software. Taking these steps can help prevent common issues and prolong the lifespan of your devices.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced world, having access to quick and convenient tech repairs is essential. Whether you choose a local repair shop, mobile service, or online repair option, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable and reliable service. And don’t forget to take preventative measures to avoid future tech issues. By following these tips, you can ensure that your devices are always in top working condition. Have you had any experiences with tech repairs? Share them in the comments below.
Verizon returns to unlimited with exciting news for their customers that have some surprised. They have recently announced the return of the unlimited data package. According to CNN, Verizon customers are now able to get unlimited data, text and talk features for eighty dollars a month.
One feature that Verizon is adding to this plan for now is the 10 GB of mobile hotspot usage. Customers are able to also call and text to friends in family in our neighboring countries, Mexico and Canada. However, the one aspect that everyone seems the most excited for is the unlimited HD video streaming.
This is quite the step up for cell phone carriers, especially after many customers criticized T-Mobile for lowering video quality for a few of its unlimited data customers, reported CNN. However, not everything is perfect. Verizon has stated that while it promises quick LTE speeds, customers using more then 22 GB of data during any one billing cycle might be left behind. Verizon stated, according to CNN, that it “may prioritize usage behind other customers in the event of network congestion”. Which, for the most part, has become a relatively standard practice across companies that offer unlimited data packages and plans.
Why Verizon returns to Unlimited
Verizon first did away with the unlimited data plan back in 2011 but last summer attempted to “test the waters” on reintroducing the plan. Last summer, they rolled out a new plan called “Safety Mode”, which basically provides customers with unlimited data, but once the user goes over a certain limit, their data goes incredibly slow.
AT&T recently also rid customers of overage fees but has yet to introduce unlimited data plans for just wireless customers. They do offer unlimited data plans, but the customer must be a AT&T wireless customers as well as either DirecTV or U-Verse TV users as well to qualify, reported CNN.
It will be interesting to see for sure how the return of the unlimited data plans fare with the public. My thought, I am sure that most will go crazy for it and we will have to keep an eye open for other networks to follow in Verizon’s footsteps.
Business Insider is one of the sources I use for all things technology based. I stumbled across one article that I thought was particularly interesting about some the best apps out there for your travel needs. Here are some of the ones I thought were the most useful.
1. Airbnb
Airbnb is a very cool app in the sense that it can save you a lot of money for housing while you travel. How it works is you find a house, apartment or room for rent but the difference is that they are posted by everyday people like you and me, not big companies or hotels. It could be a whole house or maybe just a room, but the users post whatever they have available such as an empty room and offer them out to travelers, rather than having to stay in a hotel. You can find locations all over at varying costs per night.
The majority of the Airbnb rates are set by those that offer the accommodations and normally, depending on the location, the rates are cheaper or comparable to that of hotel rates. It also, in my opinion, feels a little more “homie” than that of your typical hotel room. 2. BringFido
BringFido is an app for all of those out there who love their four legged friend. What this app does is it helps you find all the best places for your dog such as pet friendly hotels, beaches or restaurants. It basically makes it so you almost never have to be away from your furry pal. It also provides you with information as to where you can find pet supply shops and veterinarian services while you are on the go.
I have never personally used this app, but it sounds incredibly cool. I am absolutely going to look into this for my dog.
3. Flush Toilet Finder
It might sound funny but it is a pretty useful app. We have all been in that “we aren’t sure we’ll make it” situation and this helps rid you of that, no matter where you go. This app will tell you no matter where you are or how far you go, a restroom is within reach. It has a database of up to 100,000 bathrooms across the globe. This app is free for both Android and iOS users. You also are able to filter bathrooms near you based on if they have a fee for usage, a key or have disabled access.
This app is super useful, especially for the moms out there. We have all been in that situation when they didn’t need to go but five minutes later is a different story. This will help out in those situations for sure. Not to mention, it can be challenging to find a restroom when you aren’t familiar with the area. But, this now a problem of the past thanks to this nifty app.
4. Cities Talking
This is another one of those apps that could save you money and make your travel experience unforgettable. What this app does is it has guided tours of all of the world’s most popular cities to visit. These tours are walking tours that provide voice overs by various artists. For example, Business Insider reported that the London tour has a voice over by Christopher Biggins. You have the ability to rewind, pause or fast forward the tour if you’d like as well. One of the best features is that you can skip over certain parts if you would like to bypass that tourist attraction. You can also take notes as you go if you learn something interesting or want to remember something about that attraction.
I think that this app would save you a lot of money on a trip for sight seeing. Obviously, you can always pay for a guided tour, but with this you can see the sights at your own pace rather than travel with a tour group. It uses GPS technology to run the guide when you reach the next place on the tour. However, wifi and data are not required so you can venture on your own as well. Cities Talking is also a free app for Android and iOS devices.
5. Foodspotting
For all of you foodies out there, this app is more than just reading a menu. It’s basically a visual guide to food in various restaurants all over the world. Launched in 2010, Foodspotting lets you read reviews and see recommended dishes for restaurants all over the globe. It also allows you to search based on the food you have in mind, such as pizza or sushi. You can also search for what’s at certain restaurants, making it easier to choose what you want to eat.
This app could potentially be useful if you are in a new area to and you are looking for a place to eat. It’s never fun blindly guessing what’s good to eat in different places. Especially if you are kind of picky like I am. It also might help if you have a food allergy. Additionally, users could include information about foods offered for those with food allergies. This would make it easier to find places to eat in some situations.
No matter where you go or how far you go these apps can make traveling more about the experience and less about the stress that sometimes can come along with it. The original Business Insider article included several other apps that are good for travelers. If you are interested in check it out, here is the link to the article: http://www.businessinsider.com/best-travel-apps-2016-12/#accuweather-1.
If you have an Apple iPhone then you know that there are millions of apps out there for your phone. This is why knowing which apps to add to your phone is very important. Mr Phix, the screen replacement experts in Wilmington, NC found this article containing a list of the top 10 best apps for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 plus to help you sort out the best apps out there.
Choosing great apps can make your phone work better and help speed it up. Additionally, some apps can slow down your phone by using too many system resources.
For those of you that love puzzles, then one of the best puzzle apps out there is Threes! There is a free version and a paid one for $1.99.
The Netflix app is a great app to have. Netflix is one of the best subscription services out there for streaming TV and movies on your iPhone.
1Password maker is an essential app for your phone. There are so many cases of hacking and cyber attacks lately. This iPhone app can greatly make your device more secure.
Are you looking for a date? Then Tinder is a wonderful app which allows users to connect with new people nearby with a simple swipe. You can swipe those you like or pass those who you do not.
Remember that if your iPhone or Samsung phone has any problems, or your screen is shattered, damaged or needs to be replaced, Mr Phix can do it for you. We offer quality work at affordable prices. Mr Phix has 2 convenient locations in the Wilmington, NC area for those who have any problems with their cell phones.
When you ask me about cable I honestly cannot tell you much about it other than it can get pretty expensive to have all the channels you and your family like to watch. Personally, I don’t rely on cable for my entertainment but thinking Apple TV instead.
I like it because of how easy it is to find shows or movies you like at a much cheaper cost than the normal cable provider. I can pick what I want to watch and I can also watch more than one a day if I want to. Nothing is worse than getting really into a show and having to wait a whole week before the next episode. With Netflix, you can see what happens next anytime you want to.
Outside of Netflix and other entertainment applications like Hulu are other versions of what we know as cable television. Apple TV is one of the newer features being offered. However, it works a lot differently than your everyday cable.
If you head to www.apple.com/apple-tv/ you’ll find a sleek and interesting new way to engage in the world of entertainment. Apple TV offers you all of the channels you enjoy in a more customizable way. You can still watch live sports and the news channels you like, without having to buy the channels you won’t watch.
In order to use this service, you must first buy the “box” and remote that Apple TV requires. What’s nice about these? They’re simple and small. So, instead of having a bulky remote with a bunch of buttons you have no idea what they do, you have a simple, easy t o use remote with endless possibilities. The “box” itself is also compact, making it look less tacky and in your face than your everyday cable box. Here is a picture of what it looks like.
Thinking Apple TV
What really makes Apple TV stand out though is t he way it brings TV into your living room. You have the power to choose, and by choose I mean you can pick exactly what you watch. The whole system relies on apps to function. You can download apps like Hulu, HBO Now, ESPN and even iTunes to watch what you are looking for, without having to pay for those pesky cable packages. According to Apple’s website, you have over 1600 choices in video apps.
You also are able to watch all of the TV shows and movies you have purchased on iTunes. Siri also works for Apple TV and you can tell her specifically what you’d like. She’ll make it happen. You can tell Siri, “I want to watch The Blacklist” and just like that Siri will bring you right there. Not only can she do that, but she can bring up the music you’d like to listen to as well.
The cost of the box and remote are a one time expense starting at $149 according to Apple’s website. The applications can vary in price. Some have a nominal monthly fee for the ability to access the certain channel you are interested in. For example, according to Apple the Hulu app requires a monthly fee.
Technology has absolutely come a long way. We have moved from one thing to the next so quickly, it seems like every time you turn around something new is coming out. The first cell phone was released back in April of 1973 by Martin Cooper, a researcher for Motorola. However, since then computers, phones and devices of all kinds have completely changed in what they are able to do.
Forbes released an article yesterday talking about just that, how advanced technology has become. However, instead of predicting what would be a hit in ten or twenty years, they discussed what is potentially heading our way in five years. Here are some of the things Forbes feels you should look for in the coming years.
Driverless Cars
One thing Forbes talks about is driverless cars. Lately that has been all over the news. For example, Uber is paving the way in this latest transportation technology. According to an article on USA Today, this company has moved it’s testing for driverless cars to Arizona, due to restrictions in California. Along with Uber, Honda and Alphabet are looking to potentially partner in the experimentation and modeling of self-driving cars, reported The Wall Street Journal. Self-driving cars, much like electric vehicles, will change how we travel and maintain the health of our cars.
Virtual Reality
Forbes’ article also mentions the take off virtual reality in the coming years. We have already started to see this become increasingly popular with the release of VR headsets, made by various companies such as Samsung, Sony and Google, just to name a few. Virtual reality has a lot of potential to be used by business, sports and many industries to make more money in a new and innovative fashion. In short, this new technology has the ability to completely change everything we know today. We might not shop, play, or work in the way we did before.
Automation
Automation, is also mentioned in Forbes’ article. Similar to self-driving cars, the continued technology of the future can change how we interact and work in the future. Many suspect that as automation changes and develops further that it will be more equip to handle more challenging tasks that are less repetitive, such as operating a moving car.
Internet of Things
Another Technology of the Future that Forbes’ raves about is the Internet of Things, also known as IoT. For those that don’t know, The Internet of Things is basically a system of connected computing devices that have the ability to transfer data over a network without human to human or human to computer intercommunication. An example of this would be Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home, which allows you to connect to other devices in your home. You can ask them to do something simple such as turning on a light or something more specific like putting YouTube on your TV. Alexa is actually a device we use in our shop and she is able to stream music or search things for you, all by voice technology. There is no telling what else you will be able to do with that technology by 2022.
I have no doubts that technology of the future is great. Before we know it nothing will be done the way it is done today. If you are interested in reading further about these advancements or the news regarding anything mentioned in this post, I have linked the sources I used below.
Does anyone remember what it was like without smartphones? It seems like forever ago that we all owned flip phones or thought that any cell phone with a keyboard was the coolest thing. Now, most people own smartphones and are waiting every year to see what new Device they can get their hands on.
Well, Nokia is providing a blast from the past. Nokia is trying to make a come back after falling down the ranks with the release of the iPhone in 2007. In order to compete with the big phone companies of the time, Nokia is releasing a new smartphone in China, potentially one of the biggest and most competitive markets for these devices, wrote CNN.
According to CNN, Nokia’s first smartphone for Android was unveiled at the CES tech show in Las Vegas over the weekend. This new phone is called the Nokia 6 and will be sold in China only.
Nokia once was one of the top phone companies in the world.
In the 1990s it seemed like everyone was walking around with a Nokia phone. Ever since the rise of the iPhone, Nokia has struggled to compete with the continued innovation and changes made in the phone industry.
By releasing this new phone, Nokia is desperately trying to get back into the cell phone game. Nokia is attempting to do this by licensing out the use of the brand to another Finnish company named HMD Global, reported CNN.
This could be potentially a very bold move on Nokia’s part, given the specific market they are choosing to enter. Apple and Samsung are known world wide for dominating the cell phone world making it challenging for another company to break into the scene.
Nokia has one important advantage though compared to certain companies. Nokia has a history with phones and was once incredibly popular. This history makes them recognizable and many people claim to recognize Nokia right away. The question is, will this enough for Nokia to sell phones?
Time will only tell us if this new smartphone will be a success. Hopefully, if this phone is successful in China, Nokia can then explore other markets and opportunities. It’s one thing to have a great product, but another all together to get people to purchase it. Nokia will have quite a fight on their hands this year because we all know Apple and Samsung will not give up customers with ease.
For further reading on how Nokia is making a comeback, check out this article
Starbucks is revamping how customers can use their app. A new feature called My Starbucks Barista allows customers to place their orders by simply saying “I want a latte”. Not only can you order your morning cup of Joe this way but you can also pay for it as well, grab your cup and keep rolling with your day.
This new feature offered on the Starbucks app was announced on Monday, according to CNN. For now, My Starbucks Barista is only available to 1,000 people across the globe when it comes out this summer for iOS devices. However, don’t worry Android users, a version of My Starbucks Barista will be heading your way after the release of the iOS version, CNN reported.
However, Starbucks isn’t stopping there. They are also rolling out a new voice-ordering tool for Amazon’s Alexa. In order to get your caffeine fill all you have to do is say “Alexa, order my Starbucks” and it will place your order for you via the Starbucks app.
The hope of this new feature is to reduce the number of people waiting in line to pick up their coffee, which the app was original making a bigger problem, which of course discourages people from using it. The company aims to generate increased interest in the app by introducing the My Starbucks Barista feature.
13 Tricks for iMessage You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask
We here at Mr Phix, the replacement screen experts, are always looking for tips, tricks or anything that will make our customers lives easier when it comes to their mobile phones and its use. We discovered these 13 Tricks for iMessage You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask on Popsugar.com that you might not have known about, and we’re thrilled to share them with everyone.
Anyone who wants to become blue bubble masters of iMessage, which is Apple’s testing messenger, should read these. Chances are you might know them all. However, there may be a few new texting tricks, hints and tips you can learn as well that you did not know.
– Enable/Disable read receipts.
If you ever had someone text you and you did not respond back right away, then enabling and disabling read receipts is a trick you should know. This setting can let someome if you read their text and simply decided not to answer them. That can make you look really bad for not answering the text right away. So this setting has pros and cons to it. To change them simply go to the settings app, select messages and choose enable or disable Send Read Receipts. Enabling will let people know the time you read it.
– Write in All CAPS?
Most people consider writing in ALL CAPS the alternative to screaming. However, sometimes you just want to get your point accross or make sure they understand your point. To write in ALL CAPS simply double tap the shift key to turn it into the caps lock key when your keyboard is open. ENJOY! Remember, if your phone or tablet’s screen ever cracks, you can rely on Mr. Phix, the experts in replacement screens, to fix it. If you are in the Wilmington, NC area then we have several locations you can choose to visit. Mr. Phix stands out as the highest-rated replacement screen company. This is because our staff has years of experience and we valued every customer and treat them like family. Also, to give you peace of mind, we give you a lifetime guaranteed on any screens replaced.
Nintendo is attempting to make a huge turn around after having their stock drop about 5.75%.
What is the key to bring Nintendo back to life? A new game console called the Nintendo Switch.
The Switch, Nintendo’s latest and greatest game console is considered to be a hybrid console. According to Business Insider a “hybrid” console means that you can play in on a television or take it with you out and about, what ever suits your needs.
Nintendo fans, of course, are curious about what this new console has to offer. One feature that the Switch will bringing to the table. Here is basically, how the system works…
The Switch can be used as either a remote control and console or it can be used as a hand held tablet for gaming. The system costs about $299, before taxes, reported Business Insider, but also comes in two different bundles. One bundle features a blue and red Joy-Con, which is one of the main parts of the system. You may also purchase a bundle with traditional gray Joy-Con.
The system comes with a “Joy-Con Grip” and also a Nintendo Switch Dock. What makes this gaming system different is its ability to adapt to your needs. The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con bits can detach themselves from the “Joy-Con Grip” and connect to the Switch tablet, for on the go game play.
The “Joy-Con Grip” is used for more traditional game play but can also be transformed into a more mobile gaming system, providing the best of both worlds to those who love one or the other.
Another benefit to the Nintendo Switch?
The parts inside each package or bundle can be purchased separately. For example, if you need another Joy-Con you can absolutely buy it, according to Business Insider. For further information on individual purchasing, check out Nintendo’s website, as they break it all down for their consumers.
Many are excited that Nintendo is returning to a more traditional gaming style, especially after the Wii and Wii U. The “Joy-Con Grip” is designed very similarly to that of other gaming systems with two analog sticks and the traditional four buttons on each side, Business Insider explained. The controller also features shoulder buttons and triggers, much like other “traditional” gaming consoles.
However, if you are not a fan of the Switch set up, you can purchase a controller much like that of other game consoles. The controller looks incredibly similar to Nintendo’s GameCube. The bad news is that this controller does not come with the system, it is sold separately for about $70 dollars.
Nintendo presented the device to the public a few days ago and made sure to demonstrate how the system can last up to 6 ½ hours when removed from the dock. For now, Nintendo is releasing only red and blue Joy-Cons outside of the typical gray color.
However, one feature I think is going to really impress frequent gamers is the “share” feature that the Switch offers.
This button allows the user to capture screenshots of game play and also record video that can be shared with others, which tend to be a pretty popular activity. You can share your photos and videos directly from the Switch to social media. Business Insider reported, that it is uncertain if the console can also stream games live like the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Some of the games you can expect to see available for the Switch include:
A new Mario Kart game
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim”
FIFA soccer
“Super Mario Odyssey”
“Sonic Mania”
Make sure you stay tuned for this console that is set to be released on March 3th, 2017. So, far I have found that a lot of people are pretty excited about and hopefully, Nintendo won’t disappoint.
by Alesia Kaz (https://unsplash.com/@alesiaskaz)
by Yuvraj Singh (
