Jerry Hildenbrand
Jerry is an amateur woodworker and struggling shade tree mechanic. There's nothing he can't take apart, but many things he can't reassemble. You'll find him writing and speaking his loud opinion on Android Central and occasionally on Twitter.
Latest articles by Jerry Hildenbrand
How to add a security key to your Google account without activating Advanced Security
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
Two-factor authentication can protect your account, and a USB Security Key makes for a great backup if you lose your phone. It's cheap peace of mind and beats the heck out of calling Google.
The KaiOS-powered Nokia 2780 Flip is the phone I wish I could use
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
KaiOS on your phone and a Chromebook (or tablet) gives you the best of two worlds.
What is a SIM PIN code and how to unlock a SIM card with a PIN?
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
Another layer of security if you need it.
Router vs. mesh networking: What's best for your home Wi-Fi network?
By Samuel Contreras, Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
If your Wi-Fi at home is busted or you want to make a change, which should you buy? We break down the differences to help you make the best decision for your home.
A TikTok ban isn't about privacy, it's about politics
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Banning TikTok is on the table and will probably happen. That doesn't address the real problem.
Should you buy a Chromebox in 2023?
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
New Chromeboxes are always coming, but what's out there right now makes for a great purchase, too.
On by default: your apps are sharing more than you think
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Google and Apple need to crack down on apps that set anything on by default because developers are never going to stop.
How (and when) to clear app cache or data on Android
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
Apps sometimes can misbehave. If it happens to you, here's something to try.
Your user data can be the prosecution's star witness
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Meta has provided police with data from a woman seeking an abortion because it's the law.
Phone security begins - and ends - with your lock screen
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Once someone else is in your phone they can do everything you can do.
Google and Canada prove that doing the right thing sometimes sucks for everyone
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Around 4% of Canadians have limited access to news content as Google tests product responses to the new C-18 bill.
Phone fandom is alive and well (and foolish)
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
My phone is better than yours and my dad can beat up your dad.
BingGPT is as bad as I thought it would be
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Microsoft's error-fueled experiment in AI search is a complete mess, We shouldn't be surprised.
Now is the wrong time for Google Bard
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
No one will sing Bard’s praises with ChatGPT in the picture.
Is it safe to charge your phone all the way to 100%?
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
Some say it's fine, but others suggest not going all the way. Is it really okay to charge your phone to 100%?
Galaxy S23 cameras explained: 200MP and why the other sensors are unchanged
By Michael L Hicks, Jerry Hildenbrand published
Did you miss Samsung Unpacked, or just need a refresher on what makes the Galaxy S23 Ultra so special for photography? We have the breakdown you need.
Fairphone 4 review: Sustainable, repairable, and ethical
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
The Fairphone 4 doesn't boast the best specs or a unique design. But it does offer a few meaningful things you just can't get from any other phone maker.
Google is working on a new AI tool to counter ChatGPT, but you can't have it yet
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Google is finally releasing one of its LaMDA-based AI products. Sort of.
Samsung Galaxy S23: I just can't
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
I'm sure the S23 is a fine phone but it's not worth upgrading my current fine phone.
Can we stop pretending we still need tech events?
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
The only thing worse than watching a tech event is having to pretend you care about a tech event.
Jumbo has all the tools you need to protect your online footprint
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
Jumbo can help you maintain a safer presence on the internet once you figure out all the settings.
Apple search would be Google's 'get out of jail free' card
By Jerry Hildenbrand published
If 1.5 billion iPhones have Apple search as the default it'll mean Google no longer has the dreaded monopoly status.
How to factory reset your Chromebook and when you should do it
By Jerry Hildenbrand last updated
If you're going to sell your Chromebook, give it to someone, or just want to switch the primary account, you'll want to reset it and wipe away all your user settings and data.