Digital Life Radio

Episode 8  – 11/16/08

Hosted by Jordan Drake and Jake Brown

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In this episode:

Tech News:

• Google wants to bring voice activated web search to your phone and your computer. Jordan reminds us that Google is already very skilled at recognizing voice commands with their 1-800-GOOG-411 business number directory service – Jake likes being able to search the web in car hands free. Source – MacWorld
• Data collected from moon missions over 40 years ago has recently been recovered from data tapes by a Sydney computer society. This data until now has been inaccessible because of the ancient format that it has been stored on. This brings up an important issue in the current tech world. The storage methods and file formats we use today may not be around or easy readable in the years to come. The solution? Keep your data on the most current formats to avoid loosing it to obsolescence.  Source – PC World
  

David wants to know what service or software we use for voice chat over the web. Jordan and Jake both use Skype to connect computer to computer with an audio (or video) connection. It’s free, and the audio quality is great. For only $3 a month, Skype will allow you to call any landline (or cell phone or 800 number) in the US/Canada with unlimited minutes. This service takes basic voice/video chat to a whole new level of functionality.

A lot lof laptops and even desktops are coming with built in webcams these days. Jake has been evaluating one of Logitech’s higher-end cameras to see if paying $80 for a web cam is worth the upgrade. Listen to the show (at about 13 minutes in) to hear his final decision. Note: We’re going to be upgrading the website soon and bringing major upgrades to our product review coverage – stay tuned!

If you’re looking to snag some great deals this upcoming Black Friday, Jordan recommends using blackfriday.info This site lists all of the promoted discounts from virtually every retailer in the US, including online deals.

This weeks Digital Life Minute reminds us of the wonderful holiday gift that is the Apple iTunes gift card. If you buy these directly from Apple.com – you’ll not only get a festive card design but also a custom printed card envelope.

Jordan has been testing the newest revision of Apple’s popular iPod Nano and has been very impressed with it’s performance. Some of the coolest updates include a slimmer and sturdier feel and form factor, a high resolution 2 inch screen, a nifty accelerometer, and best of all – higher capacity at the starting price. Listen to our review to get the entire scoop on our evaluation .Note: We’re going to be upgrading the website soon and bringing major upgrades to our product review coverage – stay tuned!

Our hosts do a quick roundup of the current iPod lineup to explain which models might be the right pick for an upcoming holiday gift. You can listen to the show for the full rundown, but here is the short and simple:

• iPod Shuffle – A super tiny music player that favors tiny and inexpensive for the runner or music listener on the go – not for podcasts, video, or large music collections.
• iPod Nano – The all around value iPod. Starting at $150, the Nano plays music, movies, and does so with style and the same ease of use that you’re used to in an iPod
• iPod Classic – The perfect iPod for the audio/videophile with a huge collection. One price – one capacity – up to 30,000 songs
• iPod Touch – In Jordan’s mind, a close tie with the Nano for the best iPod on the market. The touch combines great music and movie playback with the capabilities of a full size computer. If you want to browse the web, check your email, get directions, and listen to music in one little device – don’t look any further than the Touch.

Holiday Shopping Guide – Essential iPod Accessories:

What add-ons should you consider to bundle with that new iPod or for the recipient who already has one? Our hosts go through a list of some of our favorite essential accessories including a car/wall charging kit, protective cases, and car audio adapters.

Tech Review – ScottEVest Ultimate Hoodie Microfleece:

The ultimate gift for any gadget lover is TEC (technology enable clothing). ScottEVest is a clothing company that is known in the tech industry for their wide range of clothing designed to accommodate all of your gadgets. Jordan is impressed by the 11 pockets (designed to keep your gadgets from bulging out), the channeling system designed to hold your iPod earbuds, and ultra warm micro fleece material. His one gripe, it may not appeal to those looking for fashionable clothing designs. Listen to the episode for his full take. Note: We’re going to be upgrading the website soon and bringing major upgrades to our product review coverage – stay tuned!

Next week on the show – Blogging platform roundup and tips, and some video game reviews!

We air every Saturday at 3pm ET on AM 1200 WXIT – call in or email us – 828 264 8255 – contact@digitalliferadio.net