Futurelawyer

Yes, Virginia, There Is A New Version Of Android Coming...Android 14.

Samsung Galaxy Android 14 - Install Or Not. It seems like yesterday that the highlight of my week was a new version of my mobile phone software. I remember Android 3, 4, 5 etc. They all had cute candy names like "Ice Cream". Every new version expanded the speed, smoothness, and feature set. Lately, however, I have eschewed the early adopter label, and am keeping my phones for a couple of years. Currently, I still use, as my daily driver, the Samsung Galaxy S21, which is everything I need in a Smartphone. So, I am not as concerned that my older phone doesn't get the new OS versions until later in the cycle. I suppose that is my maturity talking; but, it is more likely that the whole personal computing device industry is maturing. Advances these days are incremental, and, unless you spend 23 out of every 24 hours playing with your phone (you know, like have a job), you really don't need the latest and greatest. In the market? Get a 2 year old phone, save 50% on the original retail price, and geek out.

 

Chat GPT Is A Small Business' Best Friend.

I have been exploring the different ways that Chat GPT can be used to augment typical legal research tasks in a solo or small law firm. Another way I have found it useful is in making equipment and computer purchases or upgrades. In a large law firm, equipment decisions require committees and reports and time spent analyzing choices. A solo lawyer doesn't have that kind of manpower. And, I like the idea of being able to make decisions on the spot. Of course, the old saw "act in haste, repent at leisure" can bite you if you act without sufficient analysis. Today's example is in my exploration of an upgrade to my scanning system. In an era of electronic filing systems, and digital data storage, a competent scanner needs to be on every desk. For the last few years, I have used my trusty Fujitsu ScanSnap IX500 scanners, one at home, and one at the office. They are dependable, and have given good service every day. However, they are getting old, and, while still functioning, I wanted to see whether an upgrade was desirable. I asked Chat GPT whether an upgrade was indicated, and got this reply

 

"is it worth it to upgrade a scansnap ix500 to an ix1500?

 

ChatGPT

 

Whether or not it's worth upgrading from a Fujitsu ScanSnap iX500 to an iX1500 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Design & Interface: The iX1500 has a more modern design with a touchscreen interface, allowing for more straightforward scanning options and profile setups directly from the scanner. If a touchscreen interface appeals to you, this might be a reason to upgrade.

2. Scanning Speed: Both models have similar scanning speeds, so there isn’t a significant advantage to either in this department.

3. Software & Compatibility: Over time, software and driver support for older models might be phased out. The iX1500, being newer, will likely have better support and updates for a longer time. If you frequently use the accompanying software, this might be something to consider.

4. Scan to Cloud Features: The iX1500 offers better integration with cloud services, making it easier to scan documents directly to places like Dropbox, Google Drive, and more. If cloud integration is vital for you, this could be a compelling reason to upgrade.

5. Price: Consider how much you're willing to spend on an upgrade. If your iX500 is still functioning well, the cost of the iX1500 might not justify the benefits.

6. Other Features: The iX1500 offers other features like a better automatic document feeder, more straightforward paper jam resolution, etc. Evaluate these features based on your daily needs.

7. Environmental Impact: From an ecological perspective, it's worth noting that upgrading electronic equipment when the old version is still functional can contribute to electronic waste. If sustainability is a priority for you, you might decide to stick with your iX500 until it no longer meets your needs or stops working.

8. Resale Value: If you choose to upgrade, you could sell your iX500 or pass it on to someone else, potentially offsetting the cost of the new model.

In conclusion, if your iX500 is still functioning well and meets all your needs, you might not find the upgrade to iX1500 immediately necessary. However, if you value the new features, software support, and cloud integration offered by the iX1500, it might be worth the upgrade for you. Consider your specific needs, and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision."

The primary reason an upgrade might be indicated seems to be the ability to scan over WiFi. But, my USB connections work fine, and I really don't need to scan wirelessly. I will keep the old scanners going for a while, and save myself the $500 cost of an upgrade. 

Sure, I could have spent an hour or two scouring the Internet, comparing prices and features. But, I will use the hour or two I saved taking more naps, and telling you about Chat GPT, this wonderful new tool that levels the playing field for solo lawyers.

 

Galaxy Watch 6 - FutureLawyer Gets A New Smartwatch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6. On August 11, 2023, the new Samsung devices will become available, and the FutureLawyer has already ordered the new Galaxy Watch 6 Classic with a huge 47 mm screen, and, drum roll please, the return of the rotating bezel. The best thing about the first Galaxy smartwatches was the innovative rotating bezel that moved between apps and functions with a twist of the dial. After removing it in the last batch of watches, public outcry has brought it back, and I will be waiting not so patiently on August 11th for my delivery. The biggest improvements will come in the health oriented functions, and the bio sensors are the best in the business. Sleep tracking, on wrist hear rate that can detect AFib with medical grade accuracy, reliable blood pressure measurement, and more, make the Watch 6 the next step towards a Star Trek Tricorder. I probably won't like having my watch tell me when I need to exercise, or meditate or some other healthy alternative; but as I age I am more amenable to an early warning system for my heart and health. The new watch will be slimmer, lighter, and have disappearing bezels for the largest possible display. For all those who, ten years ago, told me Smartwatches would never catch on, I must now say "I told you so". Are you still paying thousands of dollars for a mechanical watch that only tells time and date? The new Watch 6 Classic with LTE phone capability is $499. 

The Best SmartWatch On The Planet Is On Sale Today For $170.

Galaxy Watch 5. I have bought, and owned, just about every Smartwatch ever created over the past ten years. The current Galaxy Watch 5 is the best of them all. While I have the 44 mm (large) version, and I got one with an LTE phone chip so that it has its own phone number, you can get the basic large version for $170, for the next 24 hours. This is the best Amazon Prime Day bargain I have found so far, other than some of the 70 inch Android TVs out there for under $400. The Watch 5 is truly a wrist computer, and I could write a book about its functions and benefits. If you are in the market for a SmartWatch, go to Amazon today. Amazing bargain.

#Why I Am A Solo - WFH Is Becoming WFA - Where Do You Work?

Work is Getting Less Remote. This is an interesting article about the evolution of Work From Home after the Pandemic. While some of us have been using tech to practice law from home and workplaces for years, the Pandemic accelerated the process for millions of office workers. Now, since face to face meetings in some environments are important, and since bosses want the control over their workers, many remote workers are transferring into hybrid work environments, and coming back to the office, at least some of the time. But, in fact, for me and others, Work From Home has always really been Work From Anywhere. Yes, face to face engagement is important in law practice, and in other professions. But, much of the time, our work can be done anywhere we have a computer and broadband Internet. We have become a society of workers who work wherever we want to, or not. Being solo, that process is much easier to pull off. How are you working today?

 

RV Lawyer - The Book

I am pleased to report that the RV lawyer book is with the editor and image placement department now, and, while it won't be out by next month's Florida Bar Convention, it will definitely be out this year. I have tried to cover just about everything a lawyer needs to know or learn in order to be a moving target; but, the book will just be a jumping off start for those of you who want to leverage the current tech to be able to get away from the office. Planes, trains, automobiles, RVs, boats or whatever mode of transportation gets you moving. There is no reason you can't be a lawyer wherever you happen to be. It is the ultimate freedom. No bosses. No desks in stuffy office buildings. Just set yourself free.

The Three Bears Theory Of Modern Day Tablet Computers.

He who dies with the most gadgets wins. I have long suspected that my obsession with technology was outstripping my outside veneer of sanity; but then I realize that life is short, and it is fun to figure out productive uses for technology. Tablet computers, for instance, have brought fun and convenience to my life. Smartphones and Smartwatches, for all their benefits, have small screens, and sometimes you want something larger. Enter tablets, and my current stable is what I call the three bears tablet theory. On the right, playing local news in the morning is a 9 inch tablet, the Samsung Tab A, (Baby Bear) which has an LTE chip, and can be also used as a phone. I use it when I want something small but with a large screen. For instance, it is easy to hold for 2 to 3 hours while scoring a baseball game. To its left is Mama Bear, which is a Samsung Tablet S5E, an 11 inch screen with an LTE phone chip, that is a couple of years old; but is the thinnest and lightest tablet available. Papa Bear, next to it, is a Samsung S7 FE, a 13 inch screen, suitable for movie watching, reading newspapers and magazines, and also has a 5G chip, which makes it the fastest tablet around. All three of them have their own Internet access, so no need to look for WiFi. At the far left, is my Kindle Scribe, which I use for calendar entries, book reading, and note taking every day. It has eliminated the need for a paper tablet for note taking and calendaring. Life is short. You don't want to run out of devices.

Someday, You Will Be Able To Wear Your Computer On Your Head.

Nimoplanet. I try not to get excited over vapor products anymore. I seldom help fund pie in the sky schemes the way I once did. I lost $5,000 to a new 3 wheel car idea a few years back, and I have supported various online projects that never made it to reality. But, putting a computer into a pair of glasses is intriguing, and I reserved a pair over a year ago. It took them a year to respond to my email about putting prescription lenses into the glasses; but, today I got a reply that prescription lenses are possible. So, still pie in the sky; but an interesting concept. This concept video is pretty slick. Again, may I live so long.

 

O Ye Of Little Faith - The Kindle Scribe Is Already Getting Updates.

I got an email this morning from Amazon, highlighting the first updates to the Kindle Scribe. Naysayers have been complaining that the note taking features were not as robust as the other EInk pads out there; but, the combination of basic note taking with the Kindle library made me and others buy it. Well, Amazon is already upgrading the note functions, and the first update is available already. The email this morning said the following:

Your Kindle Scribe is getting new brush types and new notebook subfolder capabilities

New features are ready starting today.

What's new?

Different writing tools for your different writing needs are ready to go. Try the new fountain pen for beautiful calligraphy, switch to marker to emphasize your notes, or use the new pencil for sketching. Also, keep your notes organized with new subfolder capabilities.

The updates will automatically download and install on your Kindle Scribe when connected wirelessly. 

For my more impatient friends, the updates can be downloaded manually now.

In the coming months, Kindle Scribe will add lasso copy/paste tools, improved notebook organization and navigation, and the ability to send documents to Kindle Scribe directly from within Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 subscription required).

I am loving my Scribe even more.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G Is A Tablet That Does It All At A Reasonable Price.

I finally upgraded my 4G Tab S5E yesterday. I loved it because it was thin and light, the lightest available; but, after 4 years and 4G LTE speeds, I lusted after a 5G tablet. The Fan Edition (for Samsung fanatics like the FutureLawyer)_ , Tab S7 5G is perfect. At around $600, it is a lot of tablet for the money, and has a big 12 inch screen. This adds some weight; but, it is still light enough to hold in one hand, and has a typically outstanding Samsung screen. I gave the 5E to Diane, and it is perfect for her Facebook browsing. Better for her eyes than a small phone screen. Since I upgraded, it didn't add anything to my TMobile monthly bill, and with 5G, it is speedy everywhere. The bigger screen is perfect for reading newspapers, magazines and pdf files on the go. It is the perfect complement to my Samsung Book 2 ultralight computer, and my Samsung phones. All Samsung devices sync with each other. Another Samsung exclusive feature is the Dex option, which turns the tablet into an Android desktop interface. Add a keyboard and mouse, and you can do real work on it. Finally, it is perfect for watching TV, movies and video. If you are in the market for an Android tablet, look at the Samsung options.