Kevin PurdyWriter, Greenbot Follow me on Google+

Kevin Purdy is a freelance writer and former Lifehacker editor. He is the author of The Complete Android Guide and Google+: The Missing Manual.

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4 Android apps that put SMS on your desktop

Text faster, look like you're busy, and remote-control your phone in amazing ways with these apps and services.


android apps

Android's swipe-to-shut myth and how to really close apps

You may think you're closing Android apps by swiping them away, but here's what that actually does and how Android's task switcher works.



Why your smartphone battery hates Twitter and Facebook

Twitter and Facebook are killing your phone battery, but you don't need a dedicated app for that.


Google Now: What it Actually Does

Analysis: Google Now is a voice/context/mobile/data tool in Android 4.1 Here's an overview of its finer points.


Android 4.1: It's the Little Things that Win

Analysis: Android 4.1 is a big gain for Google's mobile OS, but it's composed of many, many tiny steps forward.




Dropbox Works Because It's a Screwdriver, Not a Multi-Tool

Some have called Dropbox's value and future into question. I say trust the service that does one thing very well.

Why Did Google Pay for Motorola to be Behind a 'Firewall'?

Google has all but acquired Motorola Mobility. Okay, so now what? Good question.


Can an Android Phone Run Without Google?

Does Android really allow for a smartphone experience where you don't share with Google?


Tethering: A Quirky Conundrum

Using your phone for a computer connection is very expensive, or it's free -- depending on your carrier; and it could change.

How to Ditch Flash and Stream Video with HTML5

Big names in tech are trying to leave Adobe's Flash plug-in behind — here's how you can (mostly) forgo Adobe Flash.