The good news is that there were no major security breaches and weaknesses discovered since my last communication. Let’s hope this trend continues!!

In a few weeks, Microsoft will be releasing the next version of Windows 10 called the October 2018 update (not imaginative but the name is on target), version 1809. I will write more about version 1809, including installation guidance, after it is released.  In addition to bug fixes, Microsoft always adds new features to Windows. In my opinion the major changes in build 1809:

·        The Phone Companion app which allowed you to share data between your PC and cell phone will be removed. It will be replaced by enhanced functionality that will allow you to sign into/unlock your PC from your cell phone and allow you to edit Office documents simultaneously on both PC and phone (via Bluetooth).

·        The Snipping tool remains in build 1809 but its functionality has been replaced by a more powerful app called Snip & Sketch.

·        New security options for protecting your PC have been added to the Windows Defender Security Center.

Last week Apple announced their annual iPhone models/updates. Three new iPhones were announced: the iPhone Xs, Xs Max and Xr. The first two models are available now, with prices starting at $1000. These phones are updated versions of last year’s iPhone X with a faster processor and better cameras. The phone which will probably sell the best is the iPhone Xr, which will be out in mid-October. This phone is the same as the more expensive phones but starts at $750.  You save $250: what you lose is the better camera in the Xs and Xs Max; it comes with a traditional LCD color screen display. The more expensive models use OLED screens which are higher resolution and slightly brighter, but the Xr’s LCD screen should be more enough for most people.

Apple also announced the latest Apple Watch, series 4 (S4). In my opinion this product will be the best-selling smartwatch ever, as it truly raises the bar for what a smartwatch can do. Apple has made the S4 physically larger with a new improved user interface. But this smartwatch provides enhanced health monitoring, which moves this device to a new category beyond a device running apps. It can monitor your heat (both slow and fast heart beats) and alert you if something is wrong. If you should fall, it can get help for you by calling 911. The S4 takes the smartwatch to the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” to a whole new level.