Jim Mendenhall registered starryhope.com in 1998. The site started as a web hosting platform and morphed into a blog in the early 2000s, where it has stayed ever since: a long-running, independent tech publication based in Indiana.
For about twenty years (2005 to 2025) he ran Ubuntu almost exclusively, both at work and at home. Recent work demands and the pace of AI tooling pushed him onto macOS as the primary daily driver, but he still uses Ubuntu, Fedora, and ChromeOS on a weekly basis. He has been covering Chromebooks since the first generation shipped, and using one as a daily secondary machine for lighter tasks since 2011.
Today Starry Hope covers Chromebooks, Mini PCs, Linux, and Mac, with growing coverage of AI and how it’s reshaping personal computing. Much of Jim’s own focus has been on AI integration: putting it to work in his daily workflow at home and at work, and writing about how it actually changes what these machines are useful for rather than what the marketing claims.
His background is hands-on rather than theoretical, with years administering Ubuntu servers, Ruby on Rails development, and a long history of rebuilding the Starry Hope site itself. The current iteration runs on Astro, TypeScript, and Cloudflare Workers. The Starry Hope YouTube channel covers some of the same ground in video form.
Articles by Jim Mendenhall
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- Ollama Cloud Hosts the Models You'd Run Locally: When Hardware Still Earns Its Keep May 4, 2026
Ollama Cloud serves DeepSeek V4 Pro on Blackwell GPUs for free. When does spending thousands on local AI hardware still make sense? A decision framework.
- Your New Mini PC Came With Windows: Keep It, Wipe It, or Switch to Linux May 4, 2026
A decision framework for the first thing every mini PC buyer faces: keep OEM Windows, reinstall clean, or switch to Linux. Three branches, honest trade-offs.
- 'Atria' Just Hit the Chromebook Codebase: What Intel's Nova Lake Hardware Means for Buyers May 2, 2026
A Chromium commit reveals 'Atria,' the first Chromebook baseboard wired up for Intel's Nova Lake silicon. Here's what it means for buyers this quarter.
- Fanless vs Active Cooling Mini PCs: How to Choose in 2026 May 2, 2026
Fanless or active cooling? A workload-budget framework with real throttle data to help you pick the right 2026 mini PC for your use case.
- When a $400 Chromebook 2-in-1 Can Replace Both Your Laptop and Your Tablet May 1, 2026
A docked Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 with HDMI and USB-C can serve as your desktop, laptop, and tablet in one device. Four convertibles compared for the desk setup.
- Best Mini PCs for Running Local LLMs in 2026: What to Buy in the DRAM Crisis April 30, 2026
Memory prices surged 171% and every local LLM buyer's guide is outdated. Here's what to buy in April 2026, organized by what you need to run.
- Mac Mini M5 Is Coming: Buy the M4 Now or Wait? April 30, 2026
The Mac Mini M5 is real but months away. Here is a practical framework for deciding whether to buy the M4 now or wait, based on your actual workload.
- The Pixelbook Replacement Guide: Four Premium Chromebooks Now That Google Quit Making Them April 29, 2026
Google quit making Chromebooks and Pixelbook update support is on the clock. Four premium Chromebooks now fill the gap, each matched to a different power user.
- Framework Just Got Its First Ubuntu Certification: What the Label Actually Promises Linux Laptop Buyers April 26, 2026
What does 'Ubuntu Certified' actually guarantee when you buy a Linux laptop? We decode Canonical's test matrix using the new Framework 13 Pro as our example.
- Chromebook Comparison and 2026 Buyer's Guide April 25, 2026
Find your perfect Chromebook with our interactive comparison chart. Sort, filter, and compare specs, prices, and features side by side to find your ideal Chrome OS device.
- Hyperbox, Perplexity, or DIY: Who Wins the Mac mini AI Server Race? April 21, 2026
Hyperbox and Perplexity Personal Computer want to manage your always-on Mac mini AI server. Here's how they compare to just doing it yourself.
- Gemini Auto Browse on Chromebook Plus: Is Agentic AI Worth $20 a Month? April 20, 2026
Google's Gemini auto browse handles multi-step web tasks for you in Chrome. Here's what it costs and whether it's worth it on Chromebook Plus.
- Google Sees Schools as a 'Pipeline of Future Users.' They're Not Wrong, and That's the Problem April 20, 2026
Leaked Google documents call school Chromebooks a 'pipeline of future users.' Here's our honest take on what that means for parents and schools.
- Video Editing on a Chromebook in 2026: What Actually Works April 19, 2026
Google Vids went free, CapCut runs in the browser, and Chromebook Plus hardware handles real timelines. Here is what works for video editing on Chrome OS.
- Switching from Windows 10 to Linux in 2026: Which Distro Fits Your Life April 19, 2026
Windows 10 ESU expires October 2026. An honest guide to picking the right Linux distro - what you'll gain, what you'll lose, and how to try first.
- Run Whisper Locally on a Mini PC: Private Transcription for Professionals and Small Business April 18, 2026
Set up Whisper on a mini PC for private, always-available speech-to-text. Covers hardware needs, model selection, and the right tools for home offices and small teams.
- Claude Mythos and Project Glasswing: When 'Too Dangerous to Release' Stops Being Hyperbole April 17, 2026
Anthropic's Claude Mythos Preview is too dangerous to release publicly. Here's what the model reportedly does and why Project Glasswing matters.
- Why Mainstream Tech Media Still Calls ChromeOS a Browser-Based OS (When It Hasn't Been for 8 Years) April 13, 2026
Engadget, TechRadar, and Tom's Guide still describe Chromebooks as browser-only machines in 2026, but Linux desktop apps have shipped in ChromeOS stable since 2018. Here's why the stereotype refuses to die and how much of the blame belongs to Google itself.
- The DGX Spark and the Reality of Local AI Hardware in 2026 April 12, 2026
NVIDIA's DGX Spark now lists at $4,699 after a February price hike, making the $2,199 Strix Halo alternative more compelling than ever. Here's who should care about dedicated AI hardware.
- Running Gemma 4 on a Mini PC: Which Box Handles Which Variant April 12, 2026
Google's Gemma 4 lands in four sizes: E2B, E4B, 26B MoE, and 31B Dense. Here's which mini PC actually runs each variant, and what to expect.
- Chromebook Remorse Goes Mainstream: How the NYT Investigation Is Reshaping School Device Policy April 8, 2026
The NYT investigation into Chromebook remorse at a Kansas middle school triggered legislative action in 16+ states. What changed and why it matters.
- Project N.O.M.A.D.: How to Build an Offline AI Survival Computer with a Mini PC April 1, 2026
Project N.O.M.A.D. turns any mini PC into an offline knowledge station with local AI, Wikipedia, maps, and Khan Academy. Here's how to build one.
- Linked Strix Halo Mini PCs: Sapphire's Dual-Unit Cluster Targets 235B Parameter LLMs April 1, 2026
Sapphire showed two linked Strix Halo mini PCs at Embedded World 2026, pooling 256GB of memory for 235B parameter models. Here's what it means for local AI.
- GEEKOM A5 Pro 2026 Edition on Linux: Efficiency Champion or Overpriced Refresh? March 29, 2026
CNX Software tested the GEEKOM A5 Pro 2026 Edition with Ubuntu 25.10. Full Linux compatibility, 3.8W idle power, quiet operation. Worth $549 over older models?
- Panther Lake NUCs and the Arc B390: Intel's Integrated GPU Finally Rivals Discrete Graphics March 29, 2026
Intel's Panther Lake mini PCs pack an Arc B390 iGPU rivaling the RTX 4050 laptop GPU. Here's how six new NUCs from ASUS, GMKtec, Khadas, and more compare — with the NUC 16 Pro starting at $999 and EVO-T2 at $1,899.
- Chromebook Plus Now Bundles $240 in AI Services. Does That Actually Change the Math Against MacBook Neo? March 28, 2026
Every Chromebook Plus now includes 12 months of Google AI Pro free. We break down whether that bundle tips the value equation against the $599 MacBook Neo.
- Google AI Studio Antigravity: Build Real Apps From Any Chromebook's Browser March 27, 2026
Google AI Studio's Antigravity agent builds full-stack apps from text prompts in the browser. Any Chromebook can now prototype real web apps.
- Rising Chromebook Prices in 2026: Why Memory Costs Are Reshaping Education Fleets and Consumer Budgets March 21, 2026
DRAM prices surged 171% and tariffs compound the squeeze. Here's how rising Chromebook costs are forcing K-12 districts and budget buyers to rethink everything.
- GPT-5.4 Mini Changes the Math on Local AI Hardware March 18, 2026
OpenAI's GPT-5.4 mini delivers 54% SWE-Bench at $0.75 per million tokens. At that price, does it still make sense to spend thousands on local AI hardware?
- This $3 USB Stick Can Revive Your Old PC: ChromeOS Flex and the End of Windows 10 March 18, 2026
Google and Back Market's $3 ChromeOS Flex USB stick turns old Windows PCs into Chromebooks. Here's who it's for and how to DIY for free.
- Will Your Chromebook Get Aluminium OS? What We Know About Compatibility March 17, 2026
Google's Aluminium OS is coming in late 2026, but most Chromebooks won't qualify. Here's what the evidence says about hardware requirements and which models are likely compatible.
- The NZXT H2 Mini PC Puts an RTX 5080 in a 20-Liter Box for $3,500 March 17, 2026
NZXT's $3,499 H2 Mini PC crams a Ryzen 7 9800X3D or Core Ultra 9 285K with an RTX 5080 into a 20.7-liter Mini-ITX case. Here's what it means for SFF gaming.
- MacBook Neo vs Chromebooks in the Classroom: What the $1.25 Million Fleet Gap Really Means March 15, 2026
Apple's $499 MacBook Neo narrows the gap with Chromebooks in schools. Here's the real procurement math on fleet costs, management, and TCO.
- Beelink Launches the First Pre-installed OpenClaw Mini PCs — But Should You Buy One? March 12, 2026
Beelink is the first OEM to ship mini PCs with OpenClaw pre-installed. We break down the three tiers, SSD kits, and whether DIY makes more sense.
- Windows 365 Cloud PCs vs Mini PCs: Will Thin Clients Replace Your Desktop? March 10, 2026
Microsoft's new Windows 365 Cloud PCs from ASUS and Dell look sleek, but do the costs make sense? We compare them to budget mini PCs and Chromebooks.
- Japan Just Made the Biggest Chromebook Bet in Education History March 10, 2026
Japan's GIGA School Program triggered a twentyfold surge in Chromebook shipments. Here's what the 460-billion-yen initiative reveals about global education.
- The Chromebook Opt-Out Movement: Why Parents Are Demanding Pen and Paper March 9, 2026
Parents are opting kids out of school Chromebooks and iPads in growing numbers. Here's what's driving the movement and what to consider before joining it.
- Repair-Friendly Education Chromebooks: Can Lenovo's CRU Design Fix the E-Waste Crisis? March 9, 2026
Lenovo's Chromebook 100e and 500e Gen 5 feature customer-replaceable USB-C ports, batteries, and keyboards. Here's what CRU design means for schools.
- Chrome Is Moving to Two-Week Releases. Here's What That Means for Your Chromebook. March 7, 2026
Starting September 2026, Chrome moves from a 4-week to a 2-week release cycle. What faster updates mean for Chromebook owners, school IT admins, and ChromeOS.
- Google's Lightbar Returns on Snapdragon Chromebooks. That Means Something. March 6, 2026
The iconic four-color lightbar is returning on Snapdragon X Plus Chromebooks. Here's why this small design detail signals Google's biggest bet on premium ARM hardware.
- The $599 MacBook Neo Is Here. Should Chromebook Fans Actually Worry? March 4, 2026
Apple's $599 MacBook Neo puts full macOS at Chromebook prices. Here's who should consider it and who should stick with ChromeOS.
- Flip-Screen Mini PCs Are Everywhere Now. Are They Actually Useful? March 2, 2026
Multiple manufacturers now build flip-up touchscreens into mini PCs. We survey the AOOSTAR G-Flip, Ayaneo AM01S, and others to ask: useful feature or expensive gimmick?
- Lenovo's Yoga Mini i and the Race to Reinvent the Desktop PC Shape February 28, 2026
Lenovo's 0.65L cylindrical Yoga Mini i joins a growing wave of mini PCs abandoning the box. Here's why shape matters more than specs in the sub-1L desktop race.
- Lenovo Sapphire: Everything We Know So Far February 23, 2026
Lenovo's Sapphire project could become the first Chromebook Plus tablet. Here's what Chromium code commits reveal about its specs, design, and what questions remain.
- Gemini AI on Chromebook Plus: A Practical Guide to Google's Built-in Assistant February 20, 2026
Gemini in Chrome is now live on Chromebook Plus devices in the US. Here's what the AI sidebar does well, where it falls short, and whether it justifies upgrading.
- RISC-V Mini PCs in 2026: What Actually Works, What Doesn't, and Who Should Care February 19, 2026
RISC-V mini PCs are finally real products you can buy. From the $60 Milk-V Jupiter to the $329 Titan with PCIe Gen4, here's an honest look at what works and who should buy one.
- GeForce NOW Fast Pass on Chromebook: Is 10 Free Hours of Cloud Gaming Worth It? February 18, 2026
Every new Chromebook includes a free year of GeForce NOW Fast Pass. Here's what 10 hours of monthly cloud gaming gets you and whether it's worth it.
- Snapdragon X2 ARM Mini PCs: The Fanless Future Is Almost Here February 17, 2026
Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Elite reference designs promise silent, disc-shaped mini PCs with solid-state cooling. Here's what's real today, what's coming, and who should care.
- Windows 11 SE Dies in October: What Microsoft Got Wrong and What It Means for ChromeOS February 17, 2026
Microsoft is killing Windows 11 SE in October 2026. Here's why the ChromeOS competitor failed, what Microsoft is doing instead, and what it means for schools.
- Court Documents Reveal ChromeOS Will Be Phased Out by 2034: What It Actually Means for Your Chromebook February 15, 2026
Google's antitrust court filings confirm ChromeOS phased out by 2034, Aluminium OS delayed to 2028. What the timeline means for Chromebook buyers.
- BitNet and 1-Bit LLMs: Can Your Budget Mini PC Actually Run Local AI? February 14, 2026
Microsoft's BitNet framework lets 1-bit LLMs run on CPUs without a GPU. Here's what actually works on budget mini PCs, what doesn't, and whether it's worth the setup.
- MediaTek Kompanio 540 Chromebooks: Silent, All-Day Battery Laptops for Students February 14, 2026
MediaTek's Kompanio 540 brings fanless designs and 15-hour battery life to student Chromebooks in 2026. Here's what buyers need to know.
- Acemagic's Retro X5 Puts a Ryzen AI 9 Inside an NES: Nostalgia Meets Serious Hardware February 14, 2026
Acemagic's Retro X5 mini PC puts AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 hardware inside an NES-inspired case, targeting retro emulation and modern computing.
- What Can Your School Actually See on Your Kid's Chromebook? February 9, 2026
School Chromebooks have monitoring software that tracks students offline, records keystrokes, and flags searches. Here's what parents need to know.
- Can You Use a Chromebook Without Internet? February 9, 2026
Yes, you can use a Chromebook without internet. Google Docs, Gmail, Android apps, downloaded media, and Linux apps all work offline with some preparation.
- How to Take Screenshots on a Chromebook (Every Method Explained) February 9, 2026
Learn every way to take screenshots on a Chromebook: keyboard shortcuts, the Screen Capture toolbar, screen recording, and where files are saved.
- Turn Your Old Chromebook Into a Home Server: A Practical Guide February 8, 2026
Your expired Chromebook can become a quiet, low-power home server running Pi-hole, WireGuard, and Docker. Here's what works and what doesn't.
- The Chromebook E-Waste Crisis: Three Years After the Alarm, Has Anything Changed? February 7, 2026
Three years after PIRG's Chromebook Churn report, millions of pandemic-era devices are expiring. Google extended support to 10 years, but the crisis isn't over.
- The Chromebook Screen Time Debate: What the Research Says and What Parents Can Do February 7, 2026
Jean Twenge says school Chromebooks have failed. Teachers push back on screens. Here's what the research shows and what parents can do.
- Can I Install Java on a Chromebook? February 7, 2026
Yes, you can install Java on a Chromebook using Chrome OS's built-in Linux environment. Enable Linux in Settings, then install the JDK with apt.
- Do Chromebooks Support Flash? February 7, 2026
Adobe Flash is no longer supported on any platform, including Chromebooks. Here's what happened to Flash and what modern alternatives are available.
- Can I Use iTunes on a Chromebook? February 7, 2026
Apple discontinued iTunes in 2019. Apple Music works on Chromebooks via web player and Android app. YouTube Music and Spotify are great alternatives too.
- Chromebooks with Touchscreens February 7, 2026
Browse our complete list of Chromebooks with touchscreens. Compare convertible and clamshell models with touch-enabled displays.
- How to Use Dropbox on a Chromebook February 7, 2026
Learn how to use Dropbox on your Chromebook using the Android app or web interface. Covers setup, offline access, and integrating with Chrome OS Files.
- Installing Firefox on a Chromebook February 7, 2026
Learn how to install Firefox on your Chromebook using the Linux development environment. Step-by-step guide covering Intel, AMD, and ARM architectures.
- How to Right Click on a Chromebook (Plus Essential Touchpad Gestures) February 7, 2026
Learn how to right click on a Chromebook using the touchpad, keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen. Plus essential gestures and touchpad settings.
- Video Calling on Chromebooks February 6, 2026
Learn how to make video calls on your Chromebook using Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and WhatsApp. Complete guide to video conferencing on Chrome OS.
- Chromebooks with Upgradeable Storage February 6, 2026
Not all ChromeOS devices have soldered storage. Compare Chromebooks and Chromeboxes with user-replaceable M.2 SSDs that you can upgrade yourself.
- Can I Download Torrents on a Chromebook? February 6, 2026
You can download torrents on a Chromebook using Linux apps like Transmission or qBittorrent, or the JSTorrent Chrome extension. Here's how to set it up.
- Why Authors Are Choosing Chromebooks for Distraction-Free Writing February 5, 2026
Writers are discovering that Chromebook limitations are actually features. With Calmly Writer and Dabble, novelists draft manuscripts on $300 devices.
- Best Chromebooks Under $300 in 2026 February 5, 2026
Best Chromebooks under $300 in 2026 with long software support. Compare budget models from HP, Lenovo, Acer, and ASUS to find the best value laptop.
- Best Linux Laptops: 2026 Buyer's Guide February 5, 2026
A comprehensive guide to the best Linux laptops in 2026, from Framework's modular machines to System76's open-source workstations.
- Chromebooks for College Students February 5, 2026
Are Chromebooks good for college students? Our 2026 guide compares the best Chromebook Plus models for campus life, from budget picks under $300 to STEM powerhouses.
- Chromebooks for Kids: The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Laptops February 5, 2026
Find the best Chromebooks for kids in 2026, from rugged education models to budget-friendly options. Top picks for every age group and use case.
- Chromebooks with Backlit Keyboards February 5, 2026
Browse our comprehensive list of Chromebooks with backlit keyboards. Find the perfect device with enhanced typing visibility for working in low-light conditions.
- Can You Run Android Apps on a Chromebook? February 5, 2026
Learn how to run Android apps on your Chromebook, which apps work best, performance tips, and what hardware you need for the best experience.
- What Is Chromebook Plus? Understanding Google's Premium Certification February 5, 2026
What is Chromebook Plus? Google's premium certification guarantees minimum specs (8GB RAM, 128GB storage) and exclusive AI features like Gemini and Magic Eraser.
- What Is an Education Chromebook? A Guide for Parents and Budget Shoppers February 5, 2026
Learn what makes a Chromebook an "education" model, how they differ from consumer Chromebooks, and whether buying one for personal use is a good deal.
- Making Music on Chromebook: The DAWs That Actually Work in 2026 February 4, 2026
Can you produce music on a Chromebook? Yes, with caveats. An honest look at BandLab, Soundtrap, FL Studio Mobile, and the real limitations of Chrome OS.
- Intel Panther Lake Chromebooks: Should You Wait or Buy Now? February 3, 2026
Six Panther Lake Chromebooks are coming in Q1 2026 with Intel's 18A process. Here's what we know and whether you should wait or buy now.
- The Perfect Computer for Your Parents: A Complete Chromebook Setup Guide February 3, 2026
Help your elderly parents get online safely with a Chromebook. A practical gift guide and setup walkthrough for adult children.
- The Chromebook Magnet Trick: Why Your Kid's Laptop Keeps Sleeping February 3, 2026
A viral school prank uses magnets to put Chromebooks to sleep by triggering the lid sensor. Here's what parents, teachers, and IT admins need to know.
- Digital Nomad on a Budget Chromebook: Minimalist Travel Computing in 2026 February 2, 2026
A $250-350 Chromebook can be the perfect travel laptop for digital nomads. Why writers and remote workers are choosing cheap and cheerful over premium.
- Strix Halo Mini PCs for Local LLM Inference: A Practical Guide to Running Large Models at Home February 2, 2026
AMD Strix Halo mini PCs offer 128GB unified memory for running 70B+ parameter models locally. What actually works, who should buy one, and how it compares.
- Does Apple Music Work on Chromebooks? February 2, 2026
Yes, Apple Music works on Chromebooks via the Google Play Store Android app or the web player at music.apple.com. Here's how to get started and which method works best.
- How to Print from a Chromebook January 30, 2026
Learn how to print from your Chromebook using USB, WiFi, or network printers. Step-by-step setup instructions and troubleshooting tips for common issues.
- Steam for Chromebook Is Dead, But Chromebook Gaming Is Just Getting Started January 29, 2026
Google ended Steam for Chromebook after 4 years in beta, but GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and other services prove cloud gaming was the better path.
- The Year of Linux Desktop: What's Actually Different in 2026 January 29, 2026
Linux desktop hit 4.7% market share - a 70% jump. With Windows 10 EOL and Steam Deck normalizing Linux, here's what's changed and what's still broken.
- The Self-Hosting Renaissance: Why 2026 Is Finally the Year Everyone's Running Their Own Server January 29, 2026
AI assistants, cheap N100 mini PCs, and Tailscale eliminated the barriers to self-hosting. Here's why 2026 is finally the year normal people run servers.
- Play More Media Formats on your Chromebook with VLC January 29, 2026
VLC for Chrome OS plays MKV, AVI, FLAC, and dozens of other formats your Chromebook can't handle by default. Install it free from the Google Play Store.
- How to Connect a Chromebook to an Ethernet LAN January 29, 2026
If your Chromebook didn't come with an Ethernet port, you can easily add one with a USB adapter. We compare the best USB-A and USB-C Ethernet adapters for Chromebooks.
- Disable the Touchpad on a Chromebook January 29, 2026
Learn how to disable the touchpad on your Chromebook when using an external mouse. Chrome OS includes native settings to turn it off automatically.
- The Great Memory Squeeze: How Skyrocketing DRAM Prices Are Reshaping the Home Lab January 28, 2026
DRAM prices surged 171%, pushing Raspberry Pi 5 and N100 mini PCs to near-identical prices around $247. Why 2026 might be the year of used hardware.
- The Lobster Takeover: Why Developers Are Buying Mac Minis to Run Their Own AI Agents January 24, 2026
Clawdbot sparked a movement of developers running dedicated Mac Minis as 24/7 AI agents. Here's why the trend is growing and what hardware you actually need.
- The ARM Race: MediaTek vs Qualcomm in the Battle for Chromebook's Future January 21, 2026
ARM processors are reshaping Chromebooks. MediaTek's Kompanio Ultra leads, Qualcomm's Snapdragon X fights back, and Google's Aluminium OS looms on the horizon.
- ChromeOS and Android Are Merging in 2026: Everything You Need to Know About Aluminium OS January 11, 2026
Google confirmed ChromeOS and Android are merging into Aluminium OS in 2026. Here's what it means for your Chromebook and which devices will upgrade.
- Best Chromebook Under $200: A Guide to Affordable Computing January 11, 2026
Find the best Chromebooks under $200. Our guide covers top budget models with great performance, battery life, and value for students and everyday use.
- Mini PC Comparison and 2026 Buyer's Guide January 11, 2026
Find your perfect Mini PC with our interactive comparison chart. Sort by price, performance, and specs, plus a complete buyer's guide to help you choose.
- CES 2026 Chromebook Announcements: ASUS, HP, and Lenovo January 9, 2026
ASUS, HP, and Lenovo unveiled new Chromebooks at CES 2026, featuring WiFi 7, brighter displays, and Chromebook Plus as the new mainstream tier.
- When AI Disrupts the Disruptors: Tailwind CSS Lays Off 75% of Team January 8, 2026
Tailwind CSS laid off 75% of its engineering team as AI tools decimated revenue by 80%. What it means for developers and open-source sustainability.
- Chromebook Auto Update Expiration (AUE): How to Check & What Happens After January 5, 2026
Learn what Chromebook Auto Update Expiration (AUE) means, how to check your device's expiration date, and what you can do after software updates end.
- 5 Things Chromebooks Can't Do in 2026 (And Workarounds for Each) January 4, 2026
An honest look at what Chromebooks still can't do well in 2026, with practical workarounds and honest advice about when you should buy something else.
- The $499 Mac Killer: How DHH's Omarchy Turned Mini PCs Into Developer Workstations January 3, 2026
DHH's Omarchy distribution has sparked a movement of developers abandoning macOS for budget mini PCs. We explore the hardware, the software, and what's driving the shift.
- 5 Things Mini PCs Can't Do in 2026 (And Workarounds for Each) January 2, 2026
An honest look at five real Mini PC limitations in 2026, from GPU upgrades to expansion slots and thermal constraints, plus practical workarounds for each.
- Chromebook vs iPad for School: A Parent's Guide to Choosing the Right Device January 2, 2026
Chromebooks vs iPads for students in 2026: comparing keyboards, total cost, durability, and age-appropriate recommendations for parents.
- Mini PC vs Laptop for Remote Work: Which Should You Buy in 2026? January 1, 2026
Mini PC vs laptop for remote work: an honest comparison of performance, multi-monitor productivity, cost of ownership, and portability trade-offs in 2026.
- How to Set Up a Triple Monitor Productivity Workstation with a Mini PC December 25, 2025
Complete guide to building a triple monitor workstation with a mini PC. Covers hardware selection, monitor choices, connections, and workflow optimization.
- Is the Mac Mini M4 Worth It? January 24, 2025
Is Apple's Mac Mini M4 worth it? Compare it against Windows mini PCs on performance, price, features, gaming, and long-term value to find your best fit.
- Chromebooks for Seniors: A Safe and Secure Way to Navigate the Digital World January 18, 2025
Chromebooks are ideal for seniors seeking a secure digital experience. Learn about built-in security, the user-friendly interface, and online safety tips.
- Linux on Mini PCs in 2025 January 15, 2025
A practical guide to Linux on mini PCs in 2025. Covers AMD Ryzen, Apple M4, and Intel N150 hardware compatibility, plus recommended distributions for each.
- Chromebook Deals for Memorial Day Weekend 2023 May 28, 2023
Chromebook Memorial Day Sales 2023: Find top deals, bundle offers, and tips to score your perfect Chromebook!
- Chromebook Deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 April 23, 2023
Find the best Chromebook deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Tips for preparation, price tracking, and scoring deep discounts on Chrome OS laptops.
- Amazon Prime Day Chromebook Deals 2021 June 22, 2021
Get the best Chromebook deals on Amazon Prime Day. Tips for finding discounts, comparing models, and scoring the lowest prices on Chrome OS laptops.
- Keyboards for Chromebooks and Chromeboxes June 14, 2019
Chromebooks have a unique keyboard layout with special keys. Find the best wired and wireless keyboards designed for Chrome OS devices and Chromeboxes.
- 10 Alternative Web Browsers for Ubuntu Linux June 12, 2019
Looking beyond Firefox on Ubuntu? Explore 10 alternative web browsers for Linux, from privacy-focused options to lightweight and special-purpose tools.
- Enable Emojis in Ubuntu 19.04 May 15, 2019
Missing color emojis in Ubuntu 19.04? A single terminal command installs the Noto Color Emoji font and fixes broken emoji rendering across all apps.
- Can I Hack A School Issued Chromebook? September 10, 2018
Can you hack a school-issued Chromebook? No, and you shouldn't try. Learn why it's risky, potentially illegal, and what affordable alternatives exist instead.
- 5 Online Backup Solutions for Ubuntu Linux March 15, 2018
Five cloud services to back up your Ubuntu files offsite, including CrashPlan, SpiderOak, and Duplicati. Secure, encrypted, and often free online backup options.
- Check the Version of Ubuntu from the Terminal and Graphical Interface July 7, 2017
Two quick ways to check your Ubuntu version: the lsb_release terminal command and the graphical Settings panel. Find your release number and codename.
- Do You Need Antivirus Software for Chromebooks? June 29, 2017
Chromebooks don't need traditional antivirus software. Learn how Chrome OS protects against viruses with sandboxing, verified boot, and auto updates.
- Can Chromebooks Play Video DVDs? November 7, 2016
Chrome OS doesn't support DVD playback by default, and workarounds are limited. Here's what you need to know about watching DVDs on a Chromebook.
- Can I Install Steam on my Chromebook? August 26, 2016
Steam isn't officially available on Chrome OS, but there are ways to play Steam games on a Chromebook through Linux apps and cloud gaming services.
- Can Chromebooks Run Windows Apps? August 25, 2016
Chromebooks don't run Windows apps natively, but Linux support and tools like CrossOver offer workarounds. Here are your options for running Windows software.
- BQ Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition Photos April 22, 2016
Unboxing photos and first impressions of the BQ Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition tablet, one of the first commercial devices to ship with Ubuntu preinstalled.
- Ubuntu Unity 8 Convergence Desktop Mode January 20, 2016
A hands-on look at Ubuntu Unity 8 running in desktop convergence mode on a Nexus 4, with video showing the future Canonical was building toward.
- Can I Install Chrome OS on My PC or Mac? January 14, 2016
Google doesn't offer Chrome OS for download, but you can install the open-source Chromium OS on a PC or Mac. Here's how to get started.
- Dell Inspiron 14 Ubuntu Edition Review June 5, 2015
A hands-on review of Dell's budget Inspiron 14 Ubuntu Edition laptop. How this affordable notebook with Ubuntu preinstalled stacks up for everyday use.
- Speed Up Your Computer with Ubuntu MATE February 3, 2015
If your computer feels slow running Ubuntu with Unity, Ubuntu MATE can bring the speed back. A lightweight desktop that runs great on older hardware.
- Dear Computer Makers: I Want an Ubuntu Notebook! January 16, 2015
An open letter to HP, Dell, Lenovo, and others: why can't we buy a nice $300-450 laptop with Ubuntu preinstalled? The case for affordable Linux.
- Is Chrome OS a Linux Distribution? January 13, 2015
Chrome OS is officially a Linux distribution built on the open-source Chromium OS project. Here's what that means and why some Linux users disagree.
- Can Chromebooks Access Network File Shares? January 12, 2015
Chromebooks can access network file shares through Chrome OS extensions that support SMB, SFTP, and cloud storage services like Dropbox and OneDrive.
- Compress Website Images with Trimage May 14, 2013
Trimage provides a simple GUI and CLI for losslessly compressing JPG and PNG images on Linux. Speed up your websites with optimized images.
- Take a Break from Your Computer with Workrave April 26, 2013
Workrave is an app for Windows and Linux to help prevent Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). It reminds you to take breaks, stretch, and walk around.
- Going Static with Nanoc April 25, 2013
Why Starry Hope is now a static website built with nanoc. A look at why going static might be a good choice for your website.
- Installing Software in Ubuntu 13.04 April 8, 2013
A beginner-friendly video guide to installing software in Ubuntu using the Software Center and the Unity Dash. Includes a full walkthrough of the process.
- What Is the Best Tablet for a Linux User? June 4, 2012
Exploring the best tablet options for Linux users in 2012. Comparing iPad and Android tablet compatibility with Ubuntu desktops, sync options, and alternatives to cloud lock-in.
- Dell's Project Sputnik: Linux Hardware for Human Beings? May 8, 2012
Dell has announced Project Sputnik, an Ultrabook aimed at developers. Should they be focused on consumers instead?
- Mountain Goat: Ubuntu on Apple Hardware May 7, 2012
Adam Curry installed Ubuntu on his MacBook Air and called it Mountain Goat. Is pairing Apple hardware with open-source Linux the future of computing?
- Searching for Files in Ubuntu December 7, 2011
How to search for files in Ubuntu using the Unity Dash, the Search for Files tool, and the Nautilus file browser. Tips for finding your files fast.
- Is Ubuntu Still The Most Popular Linux Distro? November 30, 2011
2011 analysis comparing Ubuntu and Linux Mint popularity using website rankings, Google Trends, Twitter mentions, and Facebook shares.
- Tarsnap: Online Backups for Security Conscious Geeks July 18, 2011
Tarsnap is an encrypted online backup service for security-conscious UNIX users. Review of features, pricing, and step-by-step Ubuntu 11.04 install instructions.
- Introducing the Starry Hope Uploader for Facebook January 15, 2011
A simple open-source Facebook photo uploader for Ubuntu built with Python and PyGTK. Drag-and-drop batch uploads, album selection, and high-res support.
- OpenOffice Default Paper Size for Printing January 13, 2011
Fix OpenOffice defaulting to Letter paper size on Linux. Four solutions including /etc/papersize, CUPS settings, PPD files, and SGENPRT.PS configuration.
- What's New in Dropbox 1.0 for Ubuntu December 17, 2010
Dropbox 1.0 brings selective sync, Ubuntu Indicator Applet support, and a faster engine. Upgrade instructions and install guide for new Ubuntu users.
- Make your own templates for the "Create Document" menu in Ubuntu October 15, 2010
Customize Ubuntu's right-click 'Create Document' menu by adding files to your Templates folder. Works with OpenOffice, text files, and more.
- Ubuntu for Facebook Users May 2, 2010
Set up Ubuntu 10.04 for Facebook users. Video guides for Facebook Chat, Gwibber, Me Menu, and social integration with your desktop.
- What's New in Ubuntu 10.04 Lucid Lynx April 28, 2010
Complete guide to Ubuntu 10.04 LTS features including the new Ambiance theme, redesigned icons, moved window controls, and updated installer.
- Ubuntu Restricted Extras - Lets Ubuntu Play Everything April 19, 2010
Install Ubuntu Restricted Extras to add MP3, Flash, Java, DVD support and more. Video tutorial for setting up multimedia on Ubuntu 10.04.
- Last.fm Support in Ubuntu 10.04 - Scrobbling and Streaming April 11, 2010
Set up Last.fm scrobbling in Rhythmbox and install the Last.fm desktop client on Ubuntu 10.04 Lucid Lynx. Step-by-step guide with video tutorial included.
- Ubuntu's New "Light" Style Defaults to Dark Theme? March 5, 2010
First look at Ubuntu 10.04's new Ambiance and Radiance themes. Screenshots and thoughts on the controversial dark default theme.
- Ubuntu Desktop in the Cloud March 3, 2010
How to run Ubuntu 10.04 desktop on Amazon EC2 using NX remote access. Daily cloud images include full desktop environment with Neatx server.
- CrossOver 9.0 Improves Windows Application Support on Linux March 2, 2010
CrossOver 9.0 brings a redesigned GTK interface and community app recipes for running Windows software on Linux. Overview, screenshots, and Office 2007 testing.
- Ubuntu Lucid Makes Scanning Simple February 28, 2010
Ubuntu 10.04 introduces Simple Scan, a beginner-friendly scanning app. Quick guide to scanning, emailing, and saving documents with minimal fuss.
- 4 Cool New Features in Ubuntu Lucid Lynx Alpha 3 February 27, 2010
Preview of Ubuntu 10.04 Lucid Lynx Alpha 3 features including iPhone support in Rhythmbox, Gwibber social networking, Facebook Chat, and new sound controls.
- Ubuntu 10.04 to Include Chromium Web Browser February 27, 2010
Ubuntu 10.04 adds Chromium browser to its repositories. Install Google's open source Chrome browser from the Ubuntu Software Center.
- Confessions of an Ubuntu Fanboy February 21, 2010
An honest look at the gaps between Ubuntu advocacy and reality. OpenOffice compatibility, iTunes alternatives, Adobe support, and what the community needs to improve.
- Ubuntu MeMenu to Encourage Social Media Broadcasting February 20, 2010
Ubuntu 10.04's MeMenu lets you post to Twitter, Facebook, and Identi.ca from your desktop. Preview of this social broadcasting feature.
- From OS X to Ubuntu: 2 Years Later February 19, 2010
Two years after switching from Mac OS X to Ubuntu: revisiting my original complaints. Most issues solved, some still remain.
- Ubuntu Switches to Yahoo! Search ... Kinda February 18, 2010
Ubuntu 10.04 defaults to Yahoo! Search in Firefox, but Google is just two clicks away. Analysis of Canonical's search engine partnerships.
- Restore the Default Gnome Panels in Ubuntu February 18, 2010
How to restore deleted Gnome panels in Ubuntu with PanelRestore, a simple tool to backup and reset your top and bottom desktop panels.
- Facebook Chat on the Nokia N900 February 13, 2010
Step-by-step guide to set up Facebook Chat on Nokia N900 using XMPP/Jabber integration for a native messaging experience.
- 15 Ways Nokia's N900 Is Better Than Apple's iPhone (and 5 ways it's not) November 14, 2009
- Easily Install Chromium Daily Builds on Ubuntu July 4, 2009
Install Chromium browser daily builds on Ubuntu with just three terminal commands. Quick guide for Jaunty, Intrepid, and Hardy with PPA repository setup.
- Linux is Losing to Windows XP in Netbooks July 3, 2009
Analysis of why Linux netbooks are losing to Windows XP in 2009. Early Asus netbooks ran Linux, but Windows now dominates Amazon's top 25.
- $250 Desktop Runs Ubuntu, Windows 7 and OS X? July 3, 2009
Building a budget desktop with an Intel Atom dual-core motherboard that runs Ubuntu, Windows 7, and OS X. Full build guide and performance impressions.
- Ubuntu: Still Popular? June 29, 2009
2009 follow-up on Ubuntu's popularity. Website rankings, Google Trends, Twitter mentions, and blogging trends all show Ubuntu on top.
- Find, Share and Install Ubuntu Apps on Facebook June 27, 2009
A Ruby on Rails Facebook app that lets you discover, share, and install Ubuntu software with your friends on the social network.
- Synchronize Tomboy Notes with Dropbox June 26, 2009
Sync Tomboy notes across Linux, Mac, and Windows using Dropbox. Simple setup guide for keeping notes synchronized between computers.
- Ubuntu: Just how popular is it? November 3, 2007
2007 analysis of Ubuntu's popularity using DistroWatch rankings, website traffic, Google Trends, and Digg data compared to other Linux distros.
- Switching From OS X to Ubuntu: 10 Things I Miss October 18, 2007
10 things I miss after switching from Mac OS X to Ubuntu Linux: Dashboard, Quicksilver, Adium, professional graphics apps, and more.
- Review: Dell Inspiron 1420N with Ubuntu August 15, 2007
Hands-on review of the Dell Inspiron 1420N running Ubuntu Linux, covering design, heat management, WiFi, Bluetooth, and the frustrating lack of 3D video drivers.
- Dell Inspiron 1420N with Ubuntu Unboxing August 1, 2007
- Skype on the Nokia N800 July 29, 2007
- Safari for Windows Could Threaten OS X, iPhone and Apple's Image June 13, 2007
Analysis from 2007 examining security concerns when Apple released Safari for Windows, including potential risks to Mac OS X and iPhone users.
- Google Maps on the Nokia N800 May 18, 2007
- Install Ubuntu 7.04 on Your Intel Mac with VMware Fusion May 2, 2007
How to install Ubuntu 7.04 on an Intel Mac using VMware Fusion, with a comparison to Parallels and direct installation methods.
- GTD Tools For Your Mac February 9, 2007
A roundup of GTD productivity apps for Mac OS X including kGTD, Actiontastic, Ghost Action, Midnight Inbox, OmniFocus, and Tracks.
- 10 Ways The Nokia N800 Is Better Than Apple's iPhone January 12, 2007
- 10 Great OS X Application Icons December 21, 2006
A showcase of 10 Mac applications with beautifully designed icons, including AppZapper, Cyberduck, Transmit, and Toast.
- KeyFixer - Fix Your OS X Home and End Keys November 14, 2006
KeyFixer was a free utility that fixed the Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down keys in Mac OS X to work like Windows. The download is no longer available but manual instructions are provided.
- MacBook Screen Problems November 8, 2006
Personal experience with MacBook screen defects in 2006: diagonal lines, gradient distortions, and Apple's response to the widespread hardware issue.
- First 24 hours with Edubuntu 6.06 June 3, 2006
First impressions of Edubuntu 6.06 after installing on a notebook and a dual Xeon server for a university computer lab terminal server setup.
- Mac OS X Home and End Keys March 13, 2006
Learn how to fix Mac OS X Home and End keys to move the cursor to the beginning or end of a line instead of the entire document. Step-by-step Terminal instructions.
- WebKit Nightly Builds Offer Great New Features For Web Developers January 19, 2006
Discover WebKit nightly builds featuring the Web Inspector and SVG support - essential tools for Mac web developers ahead of Safari releases.
- Why I'm Switching to Mac and Linux December 30, 2005
Why I switched from Windows to Mac OS X and Linux in 2005. Daily security flaws made Windows too risky for everyday use, pushing me to safer alternatives.
- Goodbye Windows (Sorta) December 30, 2005
Switching from Windows to Ubuntu Linux in 2005. Installing Ubuntu 5.10 on a Sony laptop, setting up VMWare for the occasional Windows need, and going mostly free.
- Today's Best Chromebook Deals March 1, 1976
Find the latest Chromebook deals from Amazon and Best Buy, updated every 30 minutes. Compare prices on 100+ Chromebooks and save up to 60% on top-rated models.