Illusion of Empowerment

First off, I should mention that replying to comments in the "blog" is still impossible with the iPad® tablet computer, much as composing "blog" content on it is a "pain in the ass." The problem appears to be JavaScript code that is incompatible with ththe Safari mobile Web browser. I could attempt to deploy the cheap "smartphone" for that purpose, but its small blurry screen and puny virtual keyboard are also a "pain in the ass" to use.

Speaking of the cheap "smartphone," I have not given out its phone number to anyone. I have made no calls on it either. I have not used any of its data allowance, only opting to connect to the Net through free wireless "hotspots." That is, if the device is even powered on. Yeah, so far, it has been a waste of money.

So, I entertained the idea of obtaining a free Google® Voice phone number and utilize the new VOIP feature in the Google® Hangouts "app" to convert the iPad® into a big phone. Unfortunately, there were no local Hawai'i phone numbers available. So, I requested a phone number for Convalescent City in Cali. That's right, Convalescent City, my old stomping grounds (refer to the old journal for all the antics). Baha! Ha! Ha! Haaa!

Immediately afterward, I installed the Google® Hangouts "app" on the iPad® and signed into my account. The new Convalescent City phone number was already set up. And, there's a phone dialer built right into the "app." I tested the "app" by using it to call my cheap "smartphone." Whoa! The "app" is definitely functional. After tweaking a few more settings, the Google® Hangouts "app" will allow for the deprecation of the cheap "smartphone." Then again, maybe not.

My gadgets sure allow me to waste a lot of precious time. I sit there thinking that I have developed clever solutions to essentially non-existent problems. Oh, the irony. Every solution only creates more problems. Then, the levels of complexity increase to the point in which I find myself even more enslaved to the gadgets themselves and the "system." That's the illusion of empowerment.

Lots of rain and wetness today. Nonetheless, the usual Hawai'i Kai and evening outing itineraries were maintained. My gadgets always go along for the ride, too. Enslavement? You be the judge.