Flush with your smartphone: Toilets get Bluetooth

Life keeps getting better and better everyday, thanks to technology and the creative minds of a few. Google has made a significant impact in the lives of so many with its Android operating system and the opportunities provided is simply endless.

Japan already has the market cornered on fancy toilets, but there's always room for more potty innovations. A new line of toilets from Lixil will soon turn smartphones into commode controllers. The Satis toilets are set for release in early 2013. Through the magic of Bluetooth and an accompanying Android app, users will have minute control over these high-tech privies.

The app can trigger a lifting of the toilet seat or a flush if you've forgotten (or don't want to touch the flusher). According to the promo video, it looks like the app can also control an extending bidet feature that looks absolutely frightening.

How people use mobile devices - Smartphones VS Tablets

When you need info from the web, do you reach for your smartphone or tablet? What about when you want to check in on Facebook? Watch a video? Book travel? People tend to favor specific activities depending on what type of mobile device they have in their hands. A recent Keynote survey of more than 5,300 people (more than 3,000 smartphone users and nearly 2,000 tablet users) shed some light on what exactly what people are doing with their mobile devices.

Chromebook- The minimalist mobile approach: Use only what you really need

Preface: Why spend a #150,000 on a laptop when a cheaper Chromebook can do everything you need.

I have been using mobile gear in my work for awhile now, and have come to embrace a philosophy of only using gadgets that do just what I need. I no longer worry about having devices that can handle every situation that may infrequently arise. I find the best fit for me is to use just enough mobile tech to get the job done and no more. This is why I believe that the Samsung Series 5 550 Chromebook will work so well for virtually anyone.

Samsung Series 5 550 Chromebook

Android Tablet becomes phone - turn your Android tablet into a phone with GrooVe IP

Preface - Step by step guide on how to turn your Android tablet into a phone with the help of the GrooVe IP application.

The biggest difference between the Android phone and the Android tablet (other than size) is the ability to make phone calls. However, there are a variety of video calling apps on the market. Everyone knows Skype, but when your Android device is already seamlessly integrated with Google, why not take advantage of Google Voice? With the help of GrooVe IP, your Android tablet can use your Google Voice number as if it were a VoIP phone.

Free calls to any US/Canada number from Google

If you use Gmail or Google+ Hangouts, you can call any U.S. or Canadian phone number for free...on your computer, smartphone or tablet. You need Internet access, a microphone, and speakers. Depending on your system and setup, you may need to install a plugin found at http://www.google.com/chat/voice/. (Calling to other countries is available, but incurs costs.)
Placing a call from your Gmail account takes just three steps:

1. Click the “Call Phone” icon in the Chat window displayed in your Gmail.

Call a phone from Gmail chat

2. Type the 10-digit U.S. or Canadian number to call in the “Search or Dial” box.