Mobility by Joe WilcoxNov 30, 201511:30 am

OK, Google, Where Is Pixel C?

Black Friday is behind us, Cyber Monday is here, and Christmas shipping new purchases cuts off in about three weeks. Which makes me wonder: Where is Google’s new tablet? When announced at the end of September, Google product director Andrew Bowers said that the “Pixel C will be available in time for the holidays on the Google Store”. Eh, yeah—by whose measure is “in time”. The information giant typically sells out of new gear, which leaves little time to manage inventory. “Out of stock” notices will disappoint many shoppers, who may buy something else.

I watched for this baby to drop before Thanksgiving, particularly with Apple iPad Pro already available—three weeks now. Granted, the devices target different markets, if for no other reason than size (12.9 and 10.2 inches, respectively). But each is innovative and stylish and would make great presents for someone. I’m ready to buy, Google. As surely are many Android fanboys.I reached out to the PR staff there today and was told to “stay tuned”, which could be interpreted as soon. We shall see, eh?

Photo by Joe WilcoxNov 30, 20156:47 am

Flickr a Day 334: ‘L’homme aux Pigeons’

Poignant best describes the street photography of Vincent Anderlucci, and today’s selection is typical. The Parisian shot self-titled “L’homme aux Pigeons” (“The Man with Pigeons”) one year ago today, using Canon EOS 70D and EF 70-200mm f/4L […]

Photo by Joe WilcoxNov 29, 20157:01 am

Flickr a Day 333: ‘Emma — Hands’

Street portraiture can be among the most challenging photographic styles. It often means approaching random folks for permission to take close-in and personal shots. The process can intimidate those behind and in front of the camera. Days 95, 96, and 97 feature three stranger shoots. On our last triple-digit day in the series, we present another.

Peter Grifoni shot self-titled “Emma—Hands” one year ago today, using Olympus E-M1 and M. Zuiko 45mm F1.8 lens. Vitals: f/2, ISO 200, 1/640 sec, 45mm. I picked the pic for the woman’s body art contrast against the plaid skit. There are several others of the same subject: full body, torso, and torso alternate.

Apple by Joe WilcoxNov 28, 20154:42 pm

The 5 Smartphones of Christmas

If you’re smartphone shopping this holiday and wondering what to buy, my primer can assist—with caveats. I focus solely on Androids that are higher end but affordable, and I ignore iPhones. No slight against Apple devices is intended. I figure that people who want an iPhone won’t likely consider an alternative. Also: The differences aren’t as pronounced. For example, the major benefit choosing 6s or 6s Plus over the two previous models is slightly lower price (3D Touch is an unnecessary gimmick). The major benefit picking 5s over the 6 or 6 Plus is again price but also smaller size.

Among Androids, differences abound—and many, such as older OS versions or custom UI skins, are carrier or manufacturer imposed. That’s without considering the bloatware that either or both parties might impose. I intentionally focus on devices that offer the most value for price paid, which includes upfront or payment-plan purchased unlocked.

Photo by Joe WilcoxNov 28, 20157:25 am

Flickr a Day 332: ‘Observing the Darkness’

What a find is “Observing the Darkness”, which takes the Day for fantastic color, composition, and clarity; perfect self-title, too. Corey Templeton captured the Portland Observatory (in Maine, not Washington State) on Oct. 12, 2015, […]

Photo by Joe WilcoxNov 27, 201511:45 pm

Android Army

Cali was in the cutest pose, so I grabbed the camera but she did her cat thing—turning away to sleep. Is it so much to ask that she curb obstinate independence for 30 seconds? That’s […]

Photo by Joe WilcoxNov 27, 20157:28 am

Flickr a Day 331: ‘Selfie’

This series features plenty of selfies: Days 15, 142, 160, 201, 261, 275, 310, 316. Today’s selection differs by making the selfie-taker subject of the photo, which wins for clarity, color, contrast, and composition. The clutter behind adds character to […]

Apple by Joe WilcoxNov 26, 201511:04 am

Google, Give Thanks!

Another Thanksgiving is upon us, as Americans stuff their bellies with turkey and vittles, before falling asleep during the afternoon football game. It’s the day of family feuds, too much food, and setting the mood for the holiday season ahead.

We also count our blessings and give thanks for the year behind. I got to wondering what Google can be grateful for and compiled a short list for you. Perhaps you would like to add to it in comments or lash out at my lack of sensitivity on this special day. Please do. With that brief introduction, I present 5 things for which Google can give thanks, served in no particular order of importance.

Critters by Joe WilcoxNov 26, 20157:25 am

Flickr a Day 330: ‘Tommy’

Gobble, gobble, it’s turkey day as the United States celebrates another Thanksgiving (the first was 1621). We don’t know the fate of this bird, whether he survived the butcher’s block four years ago or any other thereafter. But being named is hopeful for longer life.

Chris Burke shot self-titled “Tommy” on September 24, 2011, using Canon EOS Rebel T2i and EF-S18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS—one of the manufacturer’s best non-“L” lenses. Vitals: f/5.6, ISO 100, 1/200 sec, 135mm.

Living by Joe WilcoxNov 25, 20156:07 pm

Virtual Reality in a cardboard box?

Today the New York Times spammed my inbox: “We’ve just launched an innovative virtual reality platform that will transform the way you experience stories. As one of our most loyal digital subscribers, you are entitled to a complimentary Google Cardboard virtual reality viewer for an enhanced viewing experience”.

I took advantage of the freebie, thinking that this thing, which literally is a cardboard box, should be an April Fool’s hoax. I kinda heard about it before but ignored. Cardboard boxes are for Amazon packages and cat play after they arrive. High-tech gadgetry, c`mon? What? Is this the newest thing in recyclable tech?

Photo by Joe WilcoxNov 25, 20157:01 am

Flickr a Day 329: ‘Streets of Italy’

Sometimes simple is best: Black and white, single subject, and unambiguous setting. Self-titled “Streets of Italy” takes the Day for what isn’t making what it is. Thomas Renken used Nikon D7000 and 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 lens […]

Gear by Joe WilcoxNov 25, 201512:40 am

Painful Parting

Last night, I returned to Amazon the Sennheiser Momentum 2 wireless headphones received on Nov.8, 2015. The retailer promises full refund. My ears ache from using them, even with the volume low. The problem is bass response, which is too intense for my aged ears. At the same time, I removed the Grado Labs RS1e from Craigslist. I will keep the wired cans.

I let go the Bluetooth set reluctantly. I like the design, construction, materials, and controls. Wireless connects easily and provides ample volume. But bass booms, and the devices on which I listen have limited graphic equalizer or none at all.