The first Pixel smartphone from Google was released in 2013. It was a high-performance phone with a lot of useful features for the average business user. On October 9, 2018, Google released the third version of its flagship device and it’s better than ever.

Models and pricing

The Pixel 3 comes in two models, each with two price points depending on how much storage you need. The smaller device has a 5.5-inch screen with a slightly higher resolution, 2160x1080, than standard HDTVs. It’s $799 for 64GB of internal storage and $899 for 128GB.

The Pixel 3 XL comes with a jump in screen size and resolution, 6.3 inches at 2960x1440. The XL also comes with a slightly bigger battery to power the larger screen. It’s $899 for 64GB of internal storage and $999 for 128GB.

Google Assistant

If you or your employees use Google’s AI assistant to schedule meetings, send emails, or set reminders, the Pixel delivers a few features you won’t find anywhere else. For one, you can squeeze the side of the phone a bit harder than usual to summon the voice assistant.

Pixel 3s also come bundled with Google’s Buds headphones, which make it easier to interact with Assistant without looking at the screen. Your notifications, reminders, and emails can be read to you as they come in and voice commands let you respond to text and email messages. The voice assistant can even answer spam phone calls on your behalf, showing a live audio transcription on your screen in case you decide to take the call.

Software

Having the latest version of Android installed on your phone is extremely important. It keeps you safe from malware designed for mobile devices and vulnerabilities in wireless networks, such as KRACK.

If your smartphone is manufactured by a company other than Google, you have to wait for that company to release a modified version of Android for that device. Even big-name manufacturers like Samsung take months to release these updates. With the Pixel 3, the latest version of Android -- along with all its feature and security updates -- is always available to you on day one.

Ancillary features

Google’s flagship phone is IP68 water and dust resistant, which is great if you or your employees work in harsh environments. Pixel 3s also support wireless charging so you never have to plug in your phone again. Just set it down on a charging mat to juice it up.

Could you get through an entire day of work without your smartphone? Probably not. The Pixel 3 is an excellent option for staying productive anywhere you need to be, especially if you’re already using the Google Assistant. If you have any questions about optimizing Android devices for your work environment, give us a call today.

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The Internet of Things (IoT) influences network connections in order to facilitate communication between systems and their machines. Enterprises have been using smart devices in new and innovative ways to promote their business. These are four trends you have to look out for.

Improved logistics
With IoT sensors, supply chain management and order fulfillment processes improve markedly to meet customer demand. For example, sensors on delivery containers and trucks in transit give managers real-time status updates, allowing them to track their items and ensure they reach the right location at the right time.

Streamlined inventory
IoT also presents automation opportunities for businesses that need to manage and replenish their stock. When data recorded from IoT devices are tied to your enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, you can accurately monitor your inventory, analyze purchase and consumption rates of a particular product, and automatically reorder items when IoT sensors detect that supply is running low. This minimizes out-of-stock incidents and prevents excess stock build-up.

Fast payment
Given how most payments are done electronically via point-of-sale systems or the internet, IoT has the potential to revolutionize the way businesses process transactions. For example, ApplePay not only allows users to purchase goods and services using the usual smartphone applications, but through state-of-the-art wearable technology as well.

Soon, IoT devices might even allow restaurants and retailers to register or charge their customers the moment they walk through the door.

Market insight
Businesses that can make sense of IoT-collected data will gain a competitive edge. Marketers, for example, can gather valuable insight into how their products are used and which demographic is utilizing them the most. This information can then inform future marketing efforts and give businesses more focused direction on how to improve their products and services for their customers.

Although businesses will certainly face many challenges in implementing the Internet of Things, those who overcome them will reap all the benefits of this burgeoning technology.

Want to know if an IoT deployment is right for your business? Contact our certified IT consultants today.

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The good ol’ two-button mouse just won’t cut it anymore. They’re unresponsive, uncomfortable, and the cord somehow ties itself up every time you put it in your bag. However, buying a new mouse can be confusing, so if you’re having difficulty picking the right one, here are some things you should keep in mind.

Cable or wireless?

Choosing between a wired or a wireless mouse is a factor you have to consider if you’re planning on purchasing a new mouse. Wireless mice are generally more comfortable since your range of movement isn’t limited by a cable and they’re usually travel friendly. However, they tend to be less responsive, which can be frustrating.

In some cases, wireless mice can also interfere with other wireless devices nearby, and most require batteries, which can create problems when they run out of juice. And, if you use the same mouse for both work and home, you run the risk of losing the tiny USB receiver for your wireless mouse when you travel.

On the other hand, wired mice are cheaper and easy to plug-and-play. The only problem you’ll have to worry about is dealing with tangled wires. So when you’re deciding on a new mouse, think about whether you’re looking for comfort or convenience.

Ergonomics matters

You’re going to be using the new mouse for a while, so it’s important to choose one that feels comfortable in your hands. When deciding on the right mouse, focus on the size and the grip of the device. The size of the mouse usually comes down to hand size. For example, someone with smaller hands might find larger mice quite unwieldy.

Certain mice can also accommodate different types of grips -- fingertip grip, palm grip, and claw grip. Users who want high-precision control of their cursor should opt for a mouse with fingertip grip, those needing comfort should get a palm grip mouse, and if you want both control and comfort, the claw grip mouse is the way to go.

DPI (dots per inch)

Higher sensitivity is necessary for precise mouse movements, especially if you’re editing images, videos, or audio files. Mice with 1200 DPI or greater guarantee finer control.

Although mouse specifications like DPI might be the last thing on your mind when it comes to buying new hardware, your comfort is important. A good mouse with the right fit can make you more efficient and reduce the risk of injury.

If you need assistance setting up the best hardware for your company, give us a call. We’re happy to help.

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