Updates, desktops, and windows phones

Hi everyone (anyone??!). It’s been 3 weeks, so I thought I’d give an update. Last time, in cellphone world:

Christian C: I already checked the information and we would need to create a case in order to get the unlock code for your phone

Me: That’s fine. How long does the case usually take to process?

Christian C: from 24 to 72 hours as much to be solved

504 hours later? Nothing.

I contacted Cricket Wireless for a status update on the 23rd which they promptly told me my ticket was status Solving, with the happy-go-lucky reply “this means this case has been taken and being solved right now =).” Last night I decided to ask for another update, which they promptly informed me that they’re waiting for a response from the phones manufacturer. I would really like to have this situated before November 18th, which is when I have to bay my next Cricket Wireless bill, otherwise I’m cutting my losses. I’m using exactly 0.0GB of data with my unlimited plan… I wish I could take advantage of this, but Cricket’s wireless network is slow and spotty, and I don’t have any reception at all at work.

Moving on, I’ve been thinking a lot about phones and workstations, and universal apps recently.

My current setup at home isn’t too complicated but at the same time isn’t very efficient. I currently have a chromebook that I use when traveling (or laying on my futon) and a desktop when just working in my room… the desktop tower takes up my entire corner-desk’s corner segment while only 3 of my 4 monitors (all under 20 inches and two of them only 1024x768) actually fit on my desk.

I’m hoping to get something more minimalistic this time around, perhaps an Intel NUC. I would also like one of those 34” 21:9 ultrawide monitors to replace my four-monitor mess…unfortunately they’re kind of expensive right now.

Meanwhile, Microsoft is trying to move everyone towards these “Universal Apps” – they’re basically a framework for apps that look the same on any Microsoft device, be it tablet, phone, or PC. It’s a great idea in theory, and there’s some programs that are already universal in the Windows store. I might try them out.

Building on that, Microsoft offers a feature in (newer) Windows Phones called Continuum, which allows you to dock your phone and use it as a full-fledged PC! Unfortunately, like many of Microsoft’s features, it may not be quite ready for production.

For Part 5 of this series, click here: Phone status: Unlocked!.