Top Tech News of 2011

2011, which has almost come to an end, has seen some good, some bad and some really sad tech news. Whether it’s the unveiling of several innovative gadgets and apps, or the unfortunate passing of some important tech heroes, 2011 was full of ups and downs.

So, to wrap up this momentous year, we’ve decided to give you a quick flashback of all the important tech stories of 2011.

January

The year kicked off with Android dethroning Nokia to become the leading smartphone platform in the world. According to a report by Canalys, around 33.3 million mobile phones were running the Android operating system in Q4 2010.

TechSource’s Top 10 Linux Distributions of 2011

As we say goodbye to a momentous 2011, it’s time to reflect on some of the big happenings in the FOSS world. Apart from Android’s rise, Torvalds’s rant, and a tasty ice cream sandwich treat, the year also saw some big changes taking place for popular Linux distributions. While many of the changes ranged from annoyingly buggy to downright unusable, a few pleasant minty surprises did manage to cleanse the Linuxiens’ palettes.

With the advent of Unity, Linux Mint, then a familiar name only amongst developers, tinkerers, and hackers, made its foray into the desktops of the so-called ‘normal’ users. Thus began a game for the top spot in the users’ hearts. And, even though Ubuntu somehow managed to keep its head high by the end of 2011, it finally had to settle on a modest second spot on the coveted DistroWatch list.

The distro scene in 2011, though mired in controversy, was a witness of some of the boldest -- and perhaps game-changing -- decisions ever taken in the FOSS community. Earlier, when Fedora, Ubuntu, Mint, and Suse offered pretty much the same interface, there was a little competition -- and also little uniqueness -- amongst the individual distros. However, once Unity and GNOME Shell entered the scene, each distro now had something different to offer. Fedora went with GNOME 3, Ubuntu stuck by Unity, and Mint, well, Mint did something a little different. Mint made combined the best of both interfaces and brought a modern, stable, and a beautiful desktop for its users.

Best Dropbox Alternatives For Ubuntu

Dropbox, an innovative startup, which refused a mouth-watering acquisition offer from Apple, has been one of the favorite apps across all platforms. Be it iOS, Macintosh, Windows, or our very own Linux, the file-hosting / online backup service has managed to gain more than 25 million users in a very short span. Furthermore, the simplicity, ubiquity, and the lack of any big competitors have made Dropbox one of the most essential apps out there.

That said, Dropbox isn’t without its share of problems. The startup was heavily criticized by many privacy-conscious users for being insecure. Software expert and the creator of GNOME went on to claim that Dropbox’s Terms of Service (TOS) contradicts its privacy policies and that the company’s famous claim “Dropbox employees aren’t able to access user files” is an outright lie.

Thus, issues abound, many Dropbox users have already started searching for some good alternatives. For Ubuntu users though, there aren’t that many choices as there are for Windows and Mac users. That said, it’s not as if you won’t be able to leave Dropbox behind. In fact, there are some great alternatives that provide almost the same amount of features as the popular startup.

Best Real-Time Strategy Games for Android

From the seminal Age of Empires Series to the massively popular StarCraft, real-time strategy games have always enjoyed a huge fan base. Whether it be prepping your soldiers for a tough battle ahead, or launching a full-blown attack on your enemies, there’s never a dull moment in this genre of gaming. Also, since fans of this genre range from hobbyist amateurs to accomplished world gaming champions, real-time strategy games have made their presence felt on almost all platforms, including mobile.

So, if you’re an Android fan, and are looking for some good real-time strategy (RTS) games to spend your weekend on, read on as we list the best of the lot.


Townsmen 6
The famed Napoleon complex may or may not be real, but the desire to become the King of France still burns wildly in the hearts of many. While that dream cannot be realized in the 21st century, a little Android game does try to bring an experience that is quite close to the real thing.

Townsmen 6 is a free Real-Time Strategy game for Android that lets you play a part in the French Revolution. You start off by constructing buildings, huts, farms and forgeries, which help you strengthen your army. Once you have enough resources, you start capturing various French districts and thus spreading your territories. As your power grows, you slowly ascend towards Paris in a daring attempt to overthrow the king.

6 Siri-Like Apps For Android

When Apple unveiled the magical Siri, even Android users drooled over the feature. Though many derided the robotic assistant as just another gimmick, its human-like intuitive voice brought a new edge to the popular mobile platform. Furthermore, thanks to its witty, and sometimes snarky responses, the ever so charming Siri has also become an Internet sensation.

Quite expectedly, no sooner was Siri released than the Android market was inundated with Siri clones and alternatives. Even though most of them can’t match the Apple’s speaking robot, they are not that bad either. So, if you’re itching to try out some Siri-esque voice control on your Droid, then read on as we cover the best Siri alternatives for Android.

Most Highly Recommended Books About Linux

Ever since we started this blog, we've talked about Linux at great length. We've provided tips, tutorials, hacks and even some spicy gossip from the magical Penguinland. While that may suffice your geek cravings, the information falls quite short if you're trying to learn about Linux in greater detail. For learning Linux, you'll need a deeper knowledge and understanding about the system and its functions. And what better way to learn Linux than by filling your shelf with some great books on the topic?

In this article, we'll be listing some of the best books about the operating system. Not only are they helpful for Linux geeks and hackers, they're also a great starting point for anyone who's always wanted to learn Linux. So, if you're a desktop neophyte or a coding ninja, here are some of the most highly recommended books about Linux:

ASUS Transformer Prime vs. Motorola XOOM 2

Android tablet computers haven’t quite gained the same amount of popularity that the Apple iPad did. That said, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t any quality Android tablets around. In fact, this November, two big companies, ASUS and Motorola, launched their own tablets that are powerful enough to give the iPad a run for its money.

ASUS’s Transformer Prime and Motorola’s XOOM 2 are battling it out to become the top Android tablet of 2011. While the battle may be an exciting thing to watch, when it comes to buying a top-notch tablet, there’s often a dilemma about which one to choose. So, if you’re an Android lover and are planning to buy any of the two tablets (or both), read on as we compare them head to head.

Motorola XOOM, which was the first tablet to feature the somewhat contentious Honeycomb UI, has a new successor. Simply called XOOM 2, the 10.1 Android-based device promises to be 33 percent thinner and 10 percent lighter than its predecessor. Loaded with Honeycomb 3.2, XOOM 2 comes with some impressive specs, and even though the steep pricing leaves a lot to be desired, it’s still one of the most coveted tablet computers around.

Best IM / Chat Clients For Android

Instant messaging technology has been around since the 1960s. However, it was not until late 1990s that chat / IM desktop clients like AOL Messenger came out and totally revolutionized the way we communicate across borders. What’s more surprising is that the long-established technology has stood the test of time and has constantly been evolving decade after decade. In the recent years, the Instant Messaging scene has gone through another such transition by making its foray into the mobile space.

Numerous IM clients for iPhone, Nokia and Blackberry are already out there for download, many of which are completely free. On Android too, there’s a surplus of such apps; however it does get rather hard for users to pick out the best once.

So, if you’re looking for a good IM client on Android, don’t worry, we’ve done all the hard work for you and compiled a list of some of the best IM clients out there.

Without further ado, here’s the list of the best IM/chat clients for Android:

Holiday Gift Ideas for Linux and Android Fans

Thanksgiving then Christmas and Hanukkah then New Year…Oh boy! There’s so much shopping to do! You, by now, must’ve realized that it’s not that easy to choose holiday gifts for our loved ones, even more so, if they happen to be geeks or hackers.

Just because they’re into technology, it doesn’t mean that you can pick up the priciest -- or the cheapest, depending on your relations -- computer or gadget in a local store, wrap it up nicely and give it to them. Remember that geeks are really choosy about the gadgets they use; hand them over the wrong one (Windows, cough, cough, Mac, cough, cough), and you’ll see them cringing at the mere sight of your ‘well thought out’ gift.

So, if you have a geek lurking around in the basement of your house, it’s time to put a smile on his or her face this holiday. Read on as we list some ideal gifts for Linux and Android fanboys and geeks in general.

5 of the Best Stock Market Apps For Android

Although the stock market isn’t the most pleasant thing to look at right now, there are millions of people whose lives depend upon the ticking of those numbers. While those changing digits might not be of much importance to the average person, there are quite a lot of people whose job involves monitoring the stock market throughout the day. To them, there are a lot of resources available that help them do that. For example, there are stock market desktop applications, web apps and websites that show the latest stock market figures. However, as this is the age of smartphones, there are a few stock market apps that help achieve the same result with the added comfort of mobility.

So, if you’re on Android, and are a tad jealous of the default stock market app on the iPhone and other iOS devices, read on as we list some of the best stock market apps for Android:

Is Ubuntu’s Popularity Declining? The Answer is Yes... and No

Mint, which just released its latest version (Linux Mint 12 Lisa), has become the most popular Linux distribution on DistroWatch. Seizing the top spot from Ubuntu, the GNOME 3-based distro has evolved from a mere spin to a serious competitor to Canonical’s flagship product. As Mint continues to dominate DistroWatch, some journalists have already come to a conclusion that Ubuntu is no longer the most popular distro around. How true is that claim? Is Ubuntu’s popularity really declining? The answer to both these questions is Yes and No.

Yes, Ubuntu’s popularity is declining, but Mint’s not to blame.

With Unity, Ubuntu managed to annoy a lot of its loyal users. Regular Linux users, who relished the comfort of a clean simplistic UI, were presented with something entirely different and confusing. With Ocelot, Canonical did manage to alleviate many of those issues. However, Unity still remains a punching bag for longtime Linux users. Since there’s no denying that Unity’s complexities have coerced veteran Linuxians to look for better alternatives, many of them have found comfort in the familiar freshness of Mint and are probably never looking back. So, if Ubuntu’s popularity is declining, it’s here; it is the faithful Linux user who’s quitting the distro.

Best File Browsers/Managers For Android

Just downloaded a document on your Android and can't seem to find it? You're not the only one. Browsing files on smartphones and tablet computers is not the same experience as it is on the desktop. Don't fret though, for this is not the locked-down world of iPhones and iPads where you'd run against a shining white wall every time you try to use the device your way. Thanks to the open nature of Android, you can use and customize your gadget any way you want to, and file browsing is no exception.

So, if you're looking to cut, copy, paste and delete your files just like you do on desktop, look no further as we list out some of the best file browsers/managers for Android.

ASTRO File Manager

With over 18 million downloads so far, ASTRO File Manager is undoubtedly one of the most popular file managers for Android. This free application lets you manage your photos, videos, documents and MP3s just like you do on your desktop. Thumbnails, drag and drop support, File searching, ASTRO's got it all covered. What's more, the app also comes with a built-in text and image viewer. Moreover, if your droid is loaded with Zip attachments, ASTRO will handle them for you without any problems. ASTRO is frequently updated and works seamlessly across phones as well as tablets (Honeycomb). Oh and one more thing, the app is free (ad-supported).

DOWNLOAD HERE

8 Exciting Features of Linux Mint 12 "Lisa"

Linux Mint, which has effortlessly managed to usurp the top spot from Ubuntu (according to DistroWatch ranking), has just released its latest version. Codenamed “Lisa”, Linux Mint 12 is based on Ubuntu 11.10 and features a perfect blend of GNOME 3 and the newly designed Mint GNOME Shell Extensions (MGSE).

So, if you’re dying to know what’s in store for Linux Mint 12 "Lisa", here’s a list of some of the exciting features it comes packed with:

1. The Desktop

Unity and GNOME 3 both had their share of controversy. Both desktops were equally criticized for being difficult to use and sometimes, for being downright unusable. Keeping in mind these issues, Linux Mint 12 was built to cater the needs of many disgruntled users who were unsatisfied with the aforementioned desktops. Though Mint doesn’t bare the slightest of resemblance to Unity, nor to GNOME 3 for that matter, it does, however, include a blend of some of the best features you’ll find on those contentious desktops. For example, Mint loyalists will be relieved to find a revamped version of the popular Mint Menu.

Android Devices: To Root or Not To Root

Android, apart from being one of the most popular mobile operating systems around, is also an open source phenomenon in the making. The freedom that this Google-made marvel provides has opened up a thousand possibilities for developers and hackers to tinker around with the code. This, in turn has created a whole new world of ROMs and MODs that give users the features they miss on the default Android OS.

An essential rite of passage into this enticing-yet-wild world requires the users to "root" their device. So, what is this root thing after all? Is it dangerous? Is rooting your Android device worth it? Read on as we try to answer all your doubts in this article.

What is rooting?

If you’re a Linux user, you must have seen commands where we prefix ‘su’ or ‘sudo’. This means that we are entering those particular commands as a superuser or root. The concept of root user is somewhat similar to Administrator on Windows. A root user has all the privileges and can ask the system to do anything, even self-destruct, so to speak. Also, since your Ubuntu desktop and your Droid are based on the same Linux kernel, most of basic UNIX commands work everywhere. By gaining root access to your Android phone, you get to tweak your device any way you want to. You can change the CPU speed, delete apps, block ads everywhere, and do many more things which a non-rooted or “normal user” wouldn’t be able to do. For Apple users who still fail to grasp the concept can think of it as jailbreaking.

12 Things to Expect in Ubuntu 12.04 Precise Pangolin

Recently, at the Ubuntu Developer Summit in Orlando, Florida, Mark Shuttleworth, talked at great length about his plans and ambitions for the upcoming version of Ubuntu. Codenamed Precise Pangolin, Ubuntu 12.04 will be a Long-Term Support (LTS) release, and will come with a slew of interesting changes. Also, one can expect deeper Unity integration and perhaps some Wayland developments as well.

Precise Pangolin, according to Shuttleworth, will be – as the name implies – the most perfect Ubuntu release so far, making it ready for large-scale deployments.

Here's a list of all the goodness you can expect from Ubuntu 12.04 that will be released in late April next year:

7 Reasons Why Apple is More Evil than Microsoft

Thanks to the hard work and vision of Steve Jobs, Apple has managed to evolve from a mere cult to a mainstream phenomenon. Fanboys, celebrities, politicians and geeks who adore their products have exalted the billion-dollar company to a technological pseudoreligion. A silent witness to Apple's magnificent ascent from failure to stardom has been Microsoft.

Though Microsoft has been the traditional bad guy of the Silicon Valley, Apple has stealthily usurped that spot by its recent actions, most of which are a bit on the dark side. As a FOSS enthusiast I believe that Microsoft is overly competitive but so is Apple.

If you think that Apple is much less evil than Microsoft, read on as we give you 7 reasons that will make Redmond look slightly better than Cupertino.

Best Terminal Emulators for Android

If you happen to be one of those geeks who love to pull all-nighters writing endless lines of code, then the terminal must be like your second home. If sitting and staring at the dark black screen is hurting your back, then why not take a small break?

But hey, we know how your fingers would start itching once you move away from that beloved keyboard of yours. That's why we've compiled a list of some of the best terminal emulators for your Android devices. Once installed, you'll be able to continue tapping your favorite commands on your shell without breaking your back. These terminal emulators are also great if you want to impress your newbie friends with some bash tricks you might have learned while fixing your own desktop.

So, as the world moves from the desktop to the smartphone and tablet computer, here are some of the best terminal emulators for Android:

Top 5 Alternative Web Browsers for Ubuntu Linux

If you're tired of everyone talking about Chrome and Firefox, it's time to try out something new. Windows users already have tons of web browsers to choose from, but only a few of them are worth your time. Linux (particularly Ubuntu) on the other hand, doesn't offer that many choices. However, that doesn't mean that there aren't any quality browsers for our favorite distro. In fact, out of dozens of alternative browsers, we've chosen the best 5 so that you would be able visit our site from the browser you love rather than sticking to the mainstream ones.

So, without further ado, here some of the best alternative web browsers for Ubuntu Linux:

Epiphany

Epiphany is a GNOME-based web browser that's both fun and simple to use. Sporting a well-designed interface, Epiphany complies with all the modern standards. The Epiphany Manifesto sums up the project goals as follows: Simplicity, Standards Compliance, and GNOME integration. Targeted towards non-technical users, Epiphany is incredibly fast and has been translated in over sixty languages. To make sure that you don't miss Firefox or Chrome, the open source web browser comes with support for extensions that add to existing functionality. Though there aren't that many add-ons to choose from, a few of them are particularly great. For example, Mouse Gestures, Tab Groups and Smart Bookmarks. Furthermore, if you care about how pages are displayed in the browser, don't worry as Epiphany scores a perfect 100/100 in Acid 3 tests.

How to Improve the Battery Life of Your Android Smartphone

We've already seen how Android stacks up against iOS when it comes to features. As much as we love our droids, one thing that always annoys an Android fan is the poor battery life. No matter how you use the phone, the battery always seems to run out way faster than you'd expect. When compared to its arch rival iOS, Android seems to consume much more battery, which, apart from fragmentation issues, is one of the biggest drawbacks of this platform.

So, is there any workaround to this issue? Yes there is. Here at TechSource, we've compiled a list of some hot tips that would help you improve the battery life of your droid so that when you come home tired from work, you won't have to rummage your house for that dreaded charger.

1. Find out what's killing the battery

The first step you need to do is check out which services and apps are consuming the battery. Go to Settings -> About Phone -> Battery Use and you'll see a list of apps and services that are taking up your battery. The services or apps displayed at the top are the ones consuming the most battery life. So, if at all there are some unimportant apps there, you might want to disable or uninstall them. Usually, the top 3 battery hogs are Display, Voice calls and WiFi.

Top 5 Photo Editors for Android

Editing photos on the desktop is easy as pie, thanks to great applications like GIMP and Photoshop. But what if you've just taken a snap on your beloved Android device and want to edit it on the go? Don't worry; it's not entirely impossible. Thanks to the openness of Android platform, dozens of apps have sprung up that let you edit your photos on the go.

Now, editing on the phone is not the same as editing on the desktop, so don't expect GIMP-like awesomeness from these apps. Having said that, these apps do suffice the photo-editing needs of almost all the phone users by adding essential effects which are both simple to apply and easy to learn. So, if you want to add some cool effects to your recently snapped holiday photos, read on as we cover the top 5 photo editors for Android.

Lenovo Mobile Enters the Philippine Market With a Barrage of New Phones

Lenovo, one of the world’s most leading PC makers, has now entered the Philippine market with its own range of low and medium range phones. Open Communications, Inc., Lenovo Mobile’s distributor in the Philippines, showcased its products to a group of bloggers last October 27, 2011 at Chateau 1771 in Greenbelt 5. Chim Serrano, business unit head of Open Communications, mentioned that their phones are feature-laden, fashionable, well-made, affordable, and will have distinct features that aren’t expected from the phones in their target market segment.

A video clip showed Lenovo Mobile’s stringent product quality testing to ensure that their software and hardware will perform well in normal day to day use. Another video clip shown described how Lenovo designs its products to reach and exceed international standards by having a multi-national design team and having actual consumer input during the design stage. After dinner, there was a presentation of the phones and their unique features.

For the initial launch, six phones were presented:

Best RSS Feed Readers for Android

While the world is going crazy about the recent changes in Google Reader, the debate over the relevance of RSS is still a hot topic among many techies. Many bloggers and even celebrities are moving away from the popular syndication format thanks to the dearth of decent RSS applications on the desktop and also due to the rapid surge in the use of social media. Even as the desktop sees a fall in the number of RSS readers, an opposite trend seems to be happening on the mobile front.

Every week new feed readers are popping up in the Android and Apple app stores that provide the same old syndication with a different twist. Furthermore, with added capabilities like syncing and sharing, these applications make content consumption a fun experience. While many of them are good enough just to 'do the job', there are only a very few which have transcended the concept of the traditional RSS reader.

So, if you've just purchased a new Android device and you're dying to read all the latest and the upcoming TechSource articles on it, read on as we list the absolute best feed readers for Android.

Why Ubuntu Should Just Focus on the Desktop Market

Recently, at UDS, it was announced that Ubuntu would soon be coming to tablets, and smartphones, and other devices. Come 2014, Ubuntu, the most mainstream Linux distribution around, will be battling major players like Android, iOS, and Windows for the mobile OS market share.

As exciting as it may sound to any Linux fan, it seems that this is simply one of the worst decisions Canonical has taken recently. Even though Ubuntu is struggling to cross the 1% desktop market share, Canonical is running around in multiple directions when they should focus on their core product, that is the desktop.

Here's why focusing on the desktop market might be beneficial for Ubuntu:

Tough task ahead

Before Unity came, Ubuntu was one of the most stable Linux distributions around. The modern desktop utopia that Unity promised only managed to disappoint its loyal followers. And although Ubuntu 11.10 managed to undo that damage to a certain extent, Unity still is one of the most contentious interfaces around. Let’s say by 2014, Canonical manages to make Unity stable enough to be called a perfect desktop, bringing the same experience on mobile will be another herculean task.

Why the Kindle Fire Might Burn the iPad

With millions of devices already sold, the iPad 2 merely reinforced Apple's position as the leader of the tablet market. While Apple is busy selling the latest iPhone 4S, Amazon is having a tough time keeping up with the insane demands for its upcoming tablet called Kindle Fire.

Touted as the iPad-killer, Amazon's Kindle Fire comes packed with almost the same amount of features as the iPad 2 but at an unbeatable price of $199. Many experts have predicted that once it is out, Kindle Fire might do to iPad what the Android did to the iPhone.

Here's why we, at Tech Source, believe that this Amazon's latest offering might make a huge dent in the tablet market by surpassing the dominant iPad 2.

5 of the Best Internet Radio Apps for Android

In 1984, the iconic band Queen had the world crooning their latest melody titled Radio Gaga. It was a tribute to the radio, which, during the olden days, was as omnipresent and powerful as the television is now. Come 2011, and the word ‘radio’ almost seems alien to this generation. Having said that, the radio hasn’t completely vanished yet. In fact, it is making its presence felt using the Internet and smartphones.

Most of the multimedia players on the desktop including iTunes and Amarok come with support for Internet radio. Moreover, there are a lot of apps that provide the same functionality on your smartphones. So, if you’re looking for some nice Internet radio applications for your Android phones, read on as we cover some of the best.

How to Convince Your Friends to Use Linux Without Being a Jerk

Linux is one of the most secure and stable operating systems around, and yet, its user base hasn’t really grown as everyone expected it to. There are many reasons for this, and we won’t go into those right now. However, if you, like any other Linux user, are disappointed by the current market share stats, we can tell you some simple tips that will help you convince your Windows or Mac-crazy friends into using Linux.

Now, many Linux users have already tried to coax their friends and family members to try out this popular and newbie-friendly distro called Ubuntu. A select few have succeeded and many have failed. So here, we will give you some important tips to help you spread the word about Linux without sounding like that arrogant nerd who has nothing but contempt for Windows or Mac.

Top 5 BitTorrent Clients for Android

Unless you've been living under a cave, you must surely have heard of BitTorrent. The peer-to-peer file sharing protocol has been around since 2001, and since then, it has managed to gain over 100 million users worldwide. BitTorrent has been used and misused for many purposes including file sharing, distribution releases, government leaks and yes, piracy. Accounting for roughly 43-70 % global Internet traffic, this protocol is one of the most talked-about things on the Internet.

Here at Tech Source, we've already showed you how to use BitTorrent on Linux and for the geeky ones, we've written also written a guide on how to download torrent files using the command line. But now, as we move on to the age of droids and iPhones, many people are looking to replace their desktop with their smartphone.

If you are too cell-savvy to use your desktop for torrents, read on as we cover the best BitTorrent clients for Android. These applications will let you download all the latest torrents without the need to boot up your desktop.

Best Robotics Software for Linux

From C-3PO and R2D2 to the ping pong-playing TOPIO, robots have always been those dream machines mankind has been waiting for. Even though they are not a part of our everyday life yet, the future does promise a world run by the untiring arms of robotics. Robotics is no longer an emerging field. In fact, it has become a science that's accessible to everyone thanks to the attention it gets in media, Internet and print.

In an earlier article, we've already talked about how widespread robotics has become with the advent of ready-made robot kits. Having said that, no robot is complete without the right kind of programming. So, whether you're a robotics enthusiast or a super geek who's busy building a giant robot in his/her basement, read on as we've got a list of some of the best and coolest Robotics software out there for Linux.

Why the Google Galaxy Nexus is a Game Changer

In our earlier article, we have predicted how ICS was going to be a better choice when compared to iOS5, and boy, we were so right. Google and Samsung, at their mega event in Hong Kong, recently unveiled the highly coveted Samsung Galaxy Nexus. Successor to the popular Nexus S, this phone comes packed with a huge amount of new features that definitely give the iPhone 4S a good run for its money. Galaxy Nexus is also the first device that will run Google's new mobile operating system, that is Android 4.0 a.k.a Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS). Featuring a completely redesigned interface, this latest offering from the big G brings a smile across all Androiders' faces as the open source operating system will theoretically run across all 2.3 devices.

Here's a look at what's new in this Android super smartphone and how it can be a game changer in an industry that is at its very peak right now.

Top Web Conferencing Software for Linux

In the age of globalization, working with people from different parts of the world is common for many industries. Employees often have to travel long distances, which are not only hectic, but also costly for the company. Thanks to the fantastic state of the current economy, companies can no longer afford to spend extra money on travel expenses and accommodation. Furthermore, since travel often involves shifting between different timezones, employees are jet lagged and they aren’t able to perform at their fullest potential. And finally, there’s the environmental crisis, which is forcing more and more companies to go green and to cut out any unnecessary activities that may affect the environment, which obviously involves travel too.

So, what’s the solution to this? Should we stop globalizing? The answer is No. Thanks to the marvelous advancement in modern computing, people from different parts of the world can now communicate without even leaving their own office. The technology I’m talking about is web conferencing. Web conferencing allows you to hold meetings, seminars (called webinars), annotate whiteboards, training events, lectures and more using the power of the Internet.

5 of the Best Multimedia Applications for Android

A few days ago we listed some of the best office apps for Android. If, in case, you’ve buried your head a tad too much into those spreadsheets and presentations, there’s no better way to unwind than by watching a nice movie. Thanks to some great advancements in technology, you no longer have to pop in your DVDs every time you want to catch a movie; cellphones like iPhone and Android offer a great movie viewing experience especially while you’re on the go. However, if, like the great David Lynch, watching movies on a cellphone is not your thing, then treat yourself with the latest funny videos on YouTube.

If you own an Android device be it a tablet computer or a smartphone, read on as we suggest to you some great apps that will let you do all the aforementioned things and more. So, without further ado, here are 5 amazing multimedia applications for Android.

Why the Samsung Galaxy S2 is Better than the iPhone 4S

The Apple vs. Android battle doesn’t seem to end as iPhone has struck again with iOS5 and the universally coveted iPhone 4S. Android, however, is not bogged down by this announcement as it has bigger things to focus on because Google has already been selling its iPhone-killers to customers worldwide.

This phone, known as Samsung Galaxy S II (S2), comes with almost the same amount of features that Apple’s new device provides. When compared head to head, the Samsung Galaxy S2 beats the iPhone 4s on 6 different grounds. In case you’re having trouble choosing between the droid and the iPhone, read on as we pit S2 against the 4S and tell you why the latter is no match to this new sensation in town.

7 Things To Do After Installing Ubuntu 11.10 ‘Oneiric Ocelot’

Ubuntu 11.10 “Oneiric Ocelot”, Ubuntu’s latest version featuring GNOME 3 and an improved Unity has arrived. This is not an LTS version but an important release for Canonical as it is still reeling from the backlash it received for involving Unity. Ubuntu 11.10, titled Oneiric Ocelot, comes with a lot of new features and improvements many Ubuntuers have been waiting for.

We’ve already seen how Ubuntu 11.10 compares against the upcoming Windows 8 operating system. Now, as Ubuntu 11.10 has been released, we’re pretty sure that some of you have already downloaded it on your system.

If you’re new to Ubuntu and are feeling disoriented after a fresh install, read on as we cover the 7 things that you need to do after installing Ubuntu 11.10 “Oneiric Ocelot”.

10 Essential Android Widgets

Android, when opposed to iPhone, can boast of a more usable home screen thanks to those nifty little widgets that you can place all over. These widgets allow you to quickly access features and settings that usually take about 4-5 clicks when accessed by the normal way.

Here are 10 essential Android widgets you must put on your home screen:

News and Weather Widget

This is a great widget that is installed by default on most of the Android 2.1+ devices. The News and Weather widget allows you to have a quick glance at the weather in your town. Clicking on it will open a complete menu showing you the weather for the whole week as well as the current day's forecast. You could swipe across the screen to access the latest news from Google News. The news is customized according to your location (GPS only) and is neatly categorized into relevant sections.

Most Memorable and Inspiring Videos of Steve Jobs

October 5, 2011 was perhaps the saddest day for the tech industry when news broke out that Steve Jobs, the famous co-founder and leader of Apple, has passed away. Hailed as the Edison of our era, he created some of the most innovative, life-changing, and iconic products in recent years.

Rarely comes a human being who influences the lives of millions if not billions of people from around the world. It goes without saying that everyone, including his rivals, secretly admired Steve Jobs. Google, one of Apple’s closest competitors right now, wrote a simple tribute on its homepage, linking directly to Apple’s website. Even Bill Gates, who was his career’s biggest rival, had the following words to say:

“Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives. The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come. For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely.”

Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich vs. Apple iOS 5

The Google vs. Apple battle continues, as both tech giants are busy preparing themselves for new versions of their mobile operating systems. While Apple’s users are hard at work hitting update buttons to download the much-awaited iOS 5, Android fans would have to wait for a month or more before they get their hands on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

Whether you’re an iPhone user or an Android lover, the coming months will bring some great new features to your device. So, if you don’t know much about the changes, read on as we compare the upcoming versions of two of the best mobile operating systems around.

Interface

When it comes to iPhone, one can’t expect any major UI change, as Apple has always been consistent about how their phone looks. However, there are some minor design improvements that take iOS a step further. For example, iOS now sports a completely redesigned notification system that looks very much similar to the one on Android. Starting with iOS5, you can now view and interact with all your new notifications right from the lock screen. Whilst you are using the phone, swipe your fingers downwards to see the current notifications. This is a new feature that’s very much similar to what Android has been using since the start. Even though there haven’t been any lawsuits yet, Android fanboys are calling it a hypocrisy on Apple’s part as Apple themselves have accused Android of copying iOS’s UI. Other design changes include the new multitasking gestures for iPad and camera button on the lock screen.

Best Stock Market Software for Linux

Whether you’re a stock market trader or just an investment enthusiast, the computer is something that you’ll always need for your work. On Windows, there are already a plenty of different software for managing your finances. Linux on the other hand, is yet to catch on in this department, but there are still quite a few good free and open-source finance/accounting software for Linux.

Don’t be disappointed though, as the scenario is slowly changing with the London Stock Exchange recently switching to Linux. Also, Linux boasts of developers who come from all walks of life, thus, there are a few applications that will come in handy for those who are into stock market and investing who prefer to use this platform.

In this article, we’ll highlight 3 of the best stock market software for Linux.

JStock

JStock is probably the best stock market software for Linux out there. It comes with a bunch of great features that will make stock management a lot easier. Here’s a look at some of the features JStock has to offer:

10 Things to Do After Buying Your First Android Phone

Many folks are switching from their old smartphones or even their Blackberries and iPhones, to the most popular phone OS in town, that is Android. If you've just purchased your first Android phone, read on as we have some handy tips for you. If you still haven't moved on to the droid yet and are a bit wary about making the switch, don't worry, just go through our earlier article in which we've outlined some great tips that'll help you choose the best Android out there.

So, without much ado, here are 10 things to do after buying your first Android phone:

1. Link your Google account

Android is an OS that works best if you link it up to your Google account. If you don't have a Gmail account, go sign up for it at gmail.com. Once you've created your first Gmail account you can link it to your Android phone to enable amazing features like synchronization, social check-ins and much more. Once linked, just set up Gmail to check your mail in the background. Be careful though, if you set Gmail to check all the labels in your account, it will have a heavy impact on your droid's battery life. The best option here is to switch to priority inbox in Gmail and set that as the default inbox on your phone. This will have minimal drain on your battery life and you won't miss out on any important mails.

The Best Indicator Applets for Ubuntu

Earlier, many folks were unhappy about the dozens of applications that ate up valuable space on their system tray. Often, people would have overly crowded panels that would look ugly in most cases. To address this problem, Canonical came up with Indicator Applets. It was not only a huge step forward in usability; it was also the foundation of a more clean and uniform user interface.

Unlike Windows, where you're clumsily right-clicking the tray, indicator applets allow you to interact with multiple applications at once without clicking more than twice. Now, if you take a look at the top panel, it looks much more uniform, with properly spaced icons and easy-to-navigate menus. As Canonical has released the API out in public, many developers have come up with some nifty indicator applets.

So, if you don't know which ones to try out first, here are some of the best indicator applets out there for Ubuntu:

Remote Desktop Apps for Android that are Worth Trying Out

Miss your desktop so much that you can’t spend a minute without looking at it? Or, do you need to access your desktop without getting up from the couch? In either case, remote desktop applications come in very handy here. The ‘magic’ happens thanks to a proprietary (ugh!) technology developed by Microsoft (not again!) called Remote Desktop Protocol. This allows users to access another computer’s graphical interface remotely.

Open source implementations of RDP have allowed other operating systems like Linux to use the technology in their own desktop computers and even mobile devices. Thanks to the relative openness of the Android platform, users can now remotely access their desktops even from their smartphones. This feature might not seem that important to average users; however, for many techies who frequently help their friends and families with their computer woes, this is one of the handiest tools around.

So, if you’re looking for some great remote desktop applications for Android, then read on as we discuss the best ones that are out there in the market.

Google Wallet: Expectations and Doubts

Since 2004, Google has been reinventing the way we use technology. After revolutionizing the manner we search, broadcast videos, check emails, and communicate, the big G has decided to lend its golden touch to the world of payments. With Google Wallet, the search giant expects to make payments simpler, more personalized and highly secure, thus making credit cards a thing of the past.

Many tech enthusiasts are excited about Google’s latest endeavor, and those who have tried it are going gaga about it. However, calling Google Wallet a success at this point would be quite premature. As with high expectations, there are rising doubts about the service’s policies. The doubts and criticisms are from Google’s competitors as well as many of its users who are rightfully concerned about their privacy. As of now, there aren’t any visible flaws in the service, but considering Google’s bad history with users’ privacy, many people are wary about trying it, because after all, their money’s involved here. Only time will tell whether Google’s new attempt at freeing people from bulky wallets will succeed or not.

If you, like anyone else, are excited about Google Wallet, read on as we discuss the service in a little more detail.

Windows 8 vs. Ubuntu 11.10

When Windows announced their new operating system, that is Windows 8, everyone on the social media was buzzing about it. Meanwhile, a bunch of developers at Canonical pulled an all-nighter fixing show-stopping bugs in the upcoming version of Ubuntu.

Linux users don’t expect their distro releases to be received with as much pomp as Windows or Mac OS. However, with Unity and the amount of improvements it has gone through, there’s a certain sense of excitement amongst Ubuntuers. Furthermore, even though Ubuntu 11.10 isn’t a LTS release, it is a critical release for the folks at Canonical. Oneiric Ocelot is Ubuntu’s golden chance to covert users back to the contentious Unity interface.

For Microsoft, the stakes seem to be high this time. Unlike then when it enjoyed a complete monopoly over the tech industry, Microsoft’s billion-dollar enterprise has taken huge visible hits thanks to the growing dominance of Apple and Android. Linux, which Microsoft once thought was over and done with, has proven itself to be a palpable threat to Microsoft’s server and mobile departments. Though Windows 8 and Ubuntu 11.10 differ hugely from each other, both in ideology and in design, they bring in a lot of similar features taking the competition up a notch.

Here’s a quick comparison between the similarities in Ubuntu 11.10 and Windows 8:

Things to Consider Before Buying an Android Phone

Android, the Google-owned mobile operating system, is slowly inching towards its goal of total market dominance as more and more people are making the switch. One thing that really works for Android is the fact that it offers almost all the features that its competitor iPhone offers without compromising on the user's freedom of choice.

While iPhone users are stuck with the same hardware and the same features, Android users get a lot of choices in every department. Walk in to a gadget store and ask for an Android phone; there's a huge chance that you'll be shown more than 10 different Android devices.

Even though Android offers a lot of options to its potential buyers, the element of choice can be perplexing to some people. Since its inception, the open source operating system has been loaded on many devices from a variety of manufacturers. Therefore, if you don't choose carefully, you might end up with a bad Android experience. So, before you run to your nearest gadget store, here are few things you should consider before buying one:

Best Webcam Software Applications for Linux

The webcam has become an essential accessory for every computer user. The tiny camera above your monitor helps you chat and ‘hangout’ with all your friends from across the world or turn it into a security spy camera. Another great thing about webcams is that they help you snap your own picture without getting up from your chair. For workaholics, a webcam is a great tool to stay in touch with their colleagues and even hold meetings with them. Being this indispensable, the software for it has to be just as good as the hardware.

For Linux users, that wasn’t always the case until mainstream applications like Cheese came out. Since then, the penguin has been very friendly to the webcam. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised when my PlayStation-Eye camera, which refused to work on Windows (without a driver), worked flawlessly from the instant I plugged it in. So, if you’ve just plugged in your shiny new webcam and are looking to snap pictures or shoot videos of yourself, then here are some of the best webcam software applications for Linux.

10 Great Office Apps for Android

Besides the well-ironed suit, the leather briefcase and the swiveling chair, the smartphone has become an important part of the office. Though BlackBerry has been the de facto standard amongst office goers, its position is slowly being usurped by the ever-growing platforms like Android and iOS. The closed attitude Apple has towards its app ecosystem hasn’t allowed many office apps to flourish. Android on the other hand can proudly brag about the plethora of apps it has ready for office and productivity software users.

So, without much ado, here are 10 great Office apps for your Android devices.

Google Docs

Don’t let the relatively lower ratings of this app fool you. The recently updated version of Google Docs comes with exciting new features making it a complete office app. And yes, there’s built-in cloud integration so that you won’t have to worry about backups and stuff. With the Google Docs app you can create, open, edit, save and delete your documents just as you would on your desktop. You can also view any PDFs or images you might have stored on your Gdocs account. What’s more, you can also edit spreadsheets on the go. Once you’re done editing your document, you can easily send it to any contact on your phone. Additionally, Google Docs for Android also provides a unique functionality wherein you could snap a picture of printed text and convert it directly into a Gdocs document. For quick access, I recommend dropping the Gdocs widget on your homescreen, as it will easily allow you to create new documents on the go. Overall, it’s a must-have app for your Droid even if you aren’t a Google Docs fan. More info...

Why Ultrabooks Should Run Ubuntu 11.10

When Steve Jobs unveiled the slim but powerful Macbook Air, it was as if a magician had pulled a flailing rabbit out of a hat. Everyone was amazed at how laptop technology had moved forward, and instantly the latest Macbook Air became a massive success.

The Macbook Air might be an awesome product, but there are currently no alternatives for folks who don’t want to get converted to the Apple religion. But don’t get disappointed just yet; come Q4 2011, Intel will be bringing us the new revolution in computing called Ultrabooks.

Touted as the direct competitor to Macbook Air, Intel’s ambitious project will leave no stone unturned to prove itself in the not-so-dead laptop market. While it is not confirmed as to which operating system manufacturers will be using, there is a high chance that Windows 7 will be the one.

However, we here at TechSource believe that running Ubuntu 11.10 (or higher) on Ultrabooks might actually be more profitable. Here’s why:

Best Android Puzzle Games To Help Boost Your Brain Power

If you are not into those racing or combat games that many mobile users are hooked to these days, then why not try some great puzzle games for Android. Playing challenging games will not only get you through a boring workday but will also give your brain the workout it needs. Reports have suggested that playing challenging puzzle games cuts the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's.

So, if you’re looking to keep your brain fit and fine, here are some of the best puzzle games you can download on your Android device:

Best Android Tablet Computers of 2011 (so far)

Ever since the iPad came out, tablets have given all the gadget freaks one more reason to be excited about. Though the Apple’s ingenious device broke all the records, Google’s Android tablet computers are slowly catching up with them. Apple’s biggest fear is that Android might beat them at their own game, much like it did in the smartphone market. With the number of Android-based tablets that have come out this year, it appears as if their fears are coming true. 

Even though Android on tablets hasn’t taken off quite as well as Google expected them to, they’ve certainly proven themselves as a perfect alternative to the iPad. Moreover, the relatively lower price point, and the variety of choices offered makes Android an important player in the impending tablet wars. 

If you, like many Android fans, are stoked about tablets, we can help you choose the right one through our list of the best Android tablet computers of 2011. This list doesn’t include upcoming tablets, so if you find the perfect one for you through this list, you can quickly run to the store and buy one right away. Also, we’ve excluded low-cost tablets from the list, making this a list of the absolute best tablets that can perform as good as, or even better than the iPad 2.

Some Great Alternatives to the Ubuntu Unity Launcher

We've already ranted about the little annoyances of Ubuntu Unity in our earlier article. Though there are many things that are just plain wrong about Unity at this moment, one bad feature that sticks out like a sore thumb is the elusive launcher.

Well, I won't say that it's a complete mess, but right now it does need a lot of work. Also, there are plenty of blokes out there who like the launcher. Well, good for them. But as a long time Linux user, I find that fat bar on the left a bit too annoying. If you (like me) are looking for some worthy alternatives to the new Ubuntu Unity launcher, read on as we discuss some great replacements that would fit your needs.

Classic GNOME Panel: Well, this one's pretty obvious but we'll include it as a recommendation anyway, just in case you've forgotten about it. The classic GNOME panel, when compared to those used on other modern desktops like KDE, Windows 7 and Mac OSX, has a bit of primitive feel to it. If you're used to opening too many windows at once, the panel gets crowded way too quick, which is the reason why many people have either switched to docks or Unity. However, if you're a die-hard GNOME 2.x fan, I know you'll be more than glad to overlook such minor annoyances. To switch to GNOME 2.x, just go to Ubuntu 11.04 (Natty Narwhal) session menu at the bottom edge of the login screen and choose the 'Classic Ubuntu Desktop' as your session.