2018 has arrived and I am most definitely grateful to have a New Year to focus on. It seems as if many of us have had challenges over the past year and moving forward is a good thing in my opinion. Since I don't believe in resolutions, I will be focusing on what I want to expand and change in my life for 2018. These words feel exciting - hurray! I am going to keep this intro brief but please note there is a lot of information in the rest of this newsletter - you can use the sidebar at the left to jump to what interests you the most.
Happy New Year!
Helping you get the most from your technology is our passion!
We provide the guidance you need to gain confidence, while learning to take advantage of everything your technology offers. It's as rewarding for us as it is for you!
1. OUR NAME
Technology Simplified is now officially the name of my company! I am pleased the name better reflects what we do for you.
IMPORTANT
Checks or other payments need to be made to "Technology Simplified".
All emails have moved to the new addresses (below) and we ask you to update your contacts.
Postal address for snail mail (below) is in effect also.
Phone number remains UNCHANGED.
THE DETAILS
Technology Simplified
1585 Terrace Way #310
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
707-573-9649
Jillian/John: support@technologysimplified.net
Ronnie: Ronnie@technologysimplified.net
Website: https://www.technologysimplified.net
2. RATES ARE INCREASING ON MARCH 1, 2018
I'm proud to say that I have now been in the business of technology support/training for 20 years. In order to continue to help our clients step into success, I am implementing a modest fee increase, which is in keeping with the quality service we provide yet still very competitive.
Beginning March 1st, the cost per hour of all our services will increase by $10. We enjoy working with you and love supporting your computing and technology endeavors. We truly value our business and personal relationship. If this rate increase presents a problem or brings up concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.
3. SPECIAL OFFER PRIOR TO MARCH
To ease the transition to our new rates we are offering a limited time special to help you get your technology in tip top shape. Appointments for our tune up special must be made prior to January 30, and all appointments must be completed before March 1st. See below.
4. CLASSES
We are always being asked about classes and we are working on the details of tailored small classes available in Santa Rosa on an ongoing basis. If you are interested, please contact Jillian to be put on our list. In the meantime, Technology Simplified delivers iPad class at the Windsor Sr. Center. See below for details.
APPLE CALLED OUT ON SLOWING DOWN OLDER PHONES
In late December, Apple was called on the carpet by several news outlets for 'slowing down' older iPhones and iPads intentionally. The result of this is that Apple is stepping up taking public responsibility and creating a positive experience for users of older phones with older batteries.
A Message to Our Customers
Click here to read.
HIGH SIERRA !! CAUTION !!
PLEASE DO NOT INSTALL
I have never recommended upgrading to a new OS before several months have passed and I am not yet ready to recommend High Sierra.
IF you have already upgraded, intentionally or not, please be sure to install any security updates offered by Apple immediately.
You can check which version of the Mac OS you are running by clicking on the Apple Menu - and selecting 'About This Mac"
How to avoid upgrading to High Sierra for the time being
Apple is 'pushing' this upgrade - when you get the prompt at the upper right corner of your screen click on 'Details' which will open the App Store and then simply Quit the App store. Nothing will install. IF you want to be very sure High Sierra doesn't install accidentally you can go to your Applications folder and look to see if you have a file called "Install Mac OS High Sierra," then drag this to the trash. Don't worry you can download it again when it is safe to install.
iOS 11
I feel that it's now safe to install iOS 11 if you have an iPhone 6S or newer. On any model older than a 6S it significantly slows your phone down. On an iPad I recommend you have at least an iPad Air 2.
** Also see above note about battery replacement if you plan to upgrade an older device.
Remember we're happy to help you with any of this should you need it and/or have any questions.
Check your iPad version here.
Check your iPhone version here.
UPCOMING CLASS
iPad Beyond the Basics - updated for iOS 11
All ages
Wednesday, February 21st and Wednesday, February 28th
10:00am - 11:30am
Now that you know how to get around your iPad and use some of the built in Apps you are ready for more!! Topics covered will include an in depth look at customizing your iPad, tips and tricks for making your iPad easier to use. Take control of understanding iCloud and how it works with your Apple ID. See how Safari works as you learn to surf the web and find what you need. Learn how to take and share photos. We will also look at some favorite third party Apps that help in the kitchen, with travel, and more. This class will be taught in a lecture format as well as hands-on; participants are required to bring their own iPads to class. This class assumes a working knowledge of navigating your iPad, sending Mail, etc. Class content can be adjusted to the skill level of the attendees, based upon what works for the majority.
Please sign up online or at the front desk in advance.
Fees
$45 for residents / $50 for non-residents
INSTRUCTIONS TO SIGN UP FOR THE CLASS
Select "Senior Programs" from choices on the left
Scroll Down the list of Course Categories on the Right to:
"Senior Computer - iPad", click "Show Courses"
This page will have all the information you need to sign up.
TUNE UP SPECIAL!!
90 MINUTES FOR $90 ~ TUNE UP*
Your Tune-Up includes:
Basic verification and repair (as possible) of your Mac OS operating system and hard drive. Updates to the same.
Updating any third-party software you run. Removal of any questionable / outdated software.
Scan for and remove malware.
Verification and consultation about your backups.
Verification of syncing your iOS devices.
Each appointment includes approximately 30 - 45 minutes of time for questions and/or training.
Call Today 707.573.9649
to book an appointment with John, our Technology Simplified Tech/Trainer.
* Offer does not apply to troubleshooting / diagnostics or major Mac OS upgrades. Appointments must be booked by 1/30/2018 and completed by 3/1/2018. Limited to the first 20 appointments.