DO MORE WITH YOUR TECH

You're undoubtedly missing out on cool features that can help make life easier, safer, even more fun

- Chris Hoffman

While the tech industry is always hyping the next hot gadget, the reality is that you already own a lot of awesome gear. And you can certainly do much more with all the devices you already own. Here's how to use them to live a better life today—no purchase necessary!

Find Emojis on Your Computer

Smiley faces and party poppers aren't just for text messages on your phone.
You can use emojis in many programs on your Mac or PC, too, with an emoji keyboard just a quick keyboard shortcut away. On a Windows PC, press the Windows key and the period key at the same time. On a Mac, press command, control and the space bar at the same time to reveal the emojis.

Get Your Smart Speaker Talking

If you have a smart speaker such as an Amazon Echo, Apple HomePod or Google Nest, you're probably asking Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant to set timers, play music, turn lights on and off, and maybe even control smart home devices like the thermostat. But these speakers are a lot smarter than that. For one thing, you can use them as a convenient translation device.

With an Alexa speaker, say "Alexa, translate Spanish" (or your language of choice) to get started. With a Google speaker, say "Hey Google, interpret French" (or your language of choice). Then just speak to hear your words translated. Apple's Home Pod, aka Siri, will translate what you say from English, or whatever language it's set to.

If you have multiple speakers, you can use them to broadcast announcements.

For example, say to your speaker, "Alexa, announce dinner is ready." The other connected speakers will relay your message to family members scattered around your home.