How-to Guides for Optimizing and Using Modern Technology


In the digital world, staying ahead of the curve means mastering new tools and tricks. This week's roundup is all about leveraging new technology and optimizing your existing devices to work smarter, not harder.

From Microsoft's game-changing Copilot in Excel and Windows, which turns natural language into complex formulas and file searches, to new AI features in Google Docs and a free, real-time voice translation app, the future of productivity is here.

We also dive into essential device maintenance and settings tweaks that can dramatically improve your user experience. Learn how to get the best picture from your TV, extend your Samsung phone's battery life, and unlock hidden features on your Android or iPhone with secret codes.

And for those still holding onto the past, we've got a crucial tip on how to get an extra year of free support for Windows 10. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just looking for a simple shortcut, these insights will help you supercharge your daily routine and stay informed in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

Excel's new Copilot function turns your prompts into formulas - how to try it
It's so much easier to create, summarize, and analyze data now - no complex manual formulas required.
You can search for files in Windows using Copilot now - here's how
The Copilot app lets you find photos, documents, and more using natural language prompts.
7 ways to use Copilot in classic Outlook - and why I disabled it
Copilot can write your emails, summarize them, and respond. Or you can just turn it off, like I did.
5 settings you should change on your TV to significantly improve the picture quality
A few simple adjustments to your TV's basic settings can lead to a noticeably crisper picture and a better overall viewing experience.
How to turn off ACR on your TV - and why you shouldn't wait to do it
Modern TV operating systems offer plenty of convenience, but they also introduce new privacy risks. Here's how to avoid them.
14 secret phone codes that unlock hidden features on your Android and iPhone
Enter these short codes into your phone's dialer to unlock new menus, screens, and features to try.
How to turn your Google Photos into videos in seconds - it's free and so much fun
I tested Google's viral video generation tool, and the results can be impressive - or hilarious. The feature works on most any phone.
Google can read your Docs to you now
This new AI feature can be a great way to catch mistakes and improve your writing.
45+ time-saving Windows keyboard shortcuts that supercharged my daily routine
Keyboard shortcuts can seriously boost your productivity - if you know the right ones. Here are 48 of the most essential shortcuts every Windows user should master.
Your TV's USB port has 5 hidden superpowers: Here's how I take advantage of mine
The USB port may be aging, but it's still incredibly versatile - offering more functions than you might think. Here are some standout examples.
Google can translate your voice in real time now - try it free
The app also has a new gamified feature aiming to compete with Duolingo.
6 Android launchers that are better than your default home screen - and why
You can customize your Android phone simply by replacing the default launcher. Here are six I recommend.
Your Samsung phone has a secret Wi-Fi menu that's incredibly useful - how to access it
If you love Samsung's everything-but-the-kitchen-sink approach to software, this OneUI feature is your next deep dive.
Changing these 7 settings on my Samsung phone improved its battery life by hours
Your Samsung phone likely holds a decent charge, but with a few smart setting tweaks, you can extend its battery life even further.
Own a Samsung smartwatch? This 30-second routine will keep your device running like new
Clearing the cache on your Galaxy Watch can fix battery drain, software glitches, and general sluggishness. Here's how to do it.
Windows 11 can link your PC clipboard to your phone
Windows 11 has a cool, useful feature that you may not know about. The Microsoft software has a new tool that will allow users to link their PC clipboard to their Android phone. In other words, you can have something copied on your computer and immediately access it on your phone. This could prove super useful for sending links, images, big blocks of...
This is my new favorite way to run Windows apps on my Linux PC - how it works
Winboat is still in beta and tricky to set up, but it's seriously impressive.
I'm ditching passwords for passkeys for one reason - and it's not what you think
Passkeys promise to replace passwords. The reality is far more confusing. But you should move to them anyway. Here's why.
Podcast and YouTube video updates
Audio and video content are playing an increasingly significant role in how we stay informed and entertained. To keep up with this trend, we’ve introduced a set of improvements that make podcast and YouTube feeds in Inoreader more powerful and convenient than ever. From a brand-new audio player to generated transcripts, topics, and articles, these...
You can stay on Windows 10 for another year for free — if you act by Oct. 14
It’s no secret that Microsoft is ending official support for Windows 10 in October. The tech giant has been chomping at the bit to get users to upgrade to Windows 11, and even allows Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 for free. However, some folks really want to stay on Windows 10, be it for upgrade compatibility

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