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General => Technical Help => Topic started by: Hampshire Lass on Saturday 19 October 13 20:06 BST (UK)
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Hi,
I'm thinking......just thinking mind....of buying a Kindle Fire. I already have a basic version for reading books but fancy the extra features of games and internet connection.
What I would like to know is, can you answer emails on the kindle and can you access Ancestry whilst away from home? For instance I am also thinking of going to WDYTYA in February and would like to know if I would then be able to access my tree whilst at the exhibition.
Any opinions from Kindle users appreciated :)
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My friend has one and loves it. If you google Kindle Fire it gives a lot of information including this http://genblogjulie.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/using-kindle-fire-for-genealogy_13.html
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Thanks groom, that's a very interesting link. I didn't realise access could/would be via an app.
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My husband has a kindle fire and absolutely loves it. He accesses his email without a problem. It's a good size too for carrying it about and for using it as a book. He doesn't share my passion for family history but I can't see why it couldn't be used. The only down side I can see when comparing it to the ipad is that there isn't a camera on the kindle fire so you can't take pictures 'on the spot' although you can download them from the computer.
Chris
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Thanks Chris, that's a consideration. I expect an ipad is more expensive though but I will bear that in mind. :)
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I believe the new Kindle Fire HD is due out next week.
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That will be another decision because they seem to keep upgrading them and the difference between the models is a bit technical to get my head around :)
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Hi,
I have a kindle fire. I am on it now! Can look at mails and answer. Google stuff. Anything you do on computer. I have love films so can watch them. Games and music. On the down side if you use if a lot charge goes down quickly. Lots of apps some free.
I wouldn't be without it. But use other kindle for reading!
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jettejane - can you easily transfer all the books from the ordinary kindle to a kindle fire? Is there any reason why you keep them separate? I have an ordinary kindle and have been wondering whether to upgrade to the Kindle Fire.
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I have an Android tablet. It has a camera and allows all internet activity such as email, rootschat, etc. it also has very good e-reader functionality. You aren't locked into any one e-book supplier and I can access the free books from my public library as well.
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Great for travel as it saves humping books around, but be careful with Amazon as you do not actually "own" the books you buy plus off course, your buying and reading habits are tracked - but what's new on that score eh?
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Thanks jettejjane, that sounds just what I want then :) but I'm interested in grooms question to you because I rather thought that the books on my "old" kindle would/could just be transferred to the new kindle. Although I can see myself using them exactly as you do.
Jennaya, I don't know anything at all about android but will take that info into consideration.
Graham, I don't understand that we don't "own" the books from Amazon on our kindle. Can they take them away? Or did you just mean we don't physically own them . Yes they certainly do track what we buy because of all the emails tempting you to buy more....and the ads at the top of RC. ::)
Thanks for your input folks :) I'm off to a Family History Fair now.........with no family history info because I have no Kindle with access to aps or internet ::)
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Thanks jettejjane, that sounds just what I want then :) but I'm interested in grooms question to you because I rather thought that the books on my "old" kindle would/could just be transferred to the new kindle. Although I can see myself using them exactly as you do.
Any books on your Kindle account can be accessed re downloaded on any Kindle device whether that is an actual kindle or another pad using a Kindle App.
Jennaya, I don't know anything at all about android but will take that info into consideration.
The operating system underlying the Kindle is a variation of Android there are quite a few tablets out now all using variations of the Android operating system
Graham, I don't understand that we don't "own" the books from Amazon on our kindle. Can they take them away? Or did you just mean we don't physically own them . Yes they certainly do track what we buy because of all the emails tempting you to buy more....and the ads at the top of RC. ::)
There has been a lot of debate and anger about this especially concerning music files - technically you are not purchasing the book from Amazon (or anywhere else) you are purchasing a restricted licence to allow you to view that file
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Hi HL,
Once you have registered your Kindle Fire with Amazon, all your books in your existing account are downloadable.
Out of interest there is a Kindle App for Apple, and I assume Android that let's you access all Kindle library so you can ready our books on other tablets too.
Maggie.
Red post - snap Falkyrn
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I have an ordinary Kindle, which is the best of all for reading in my opinion due to it having a screen that is kind to the eyes and also an incredibly long battery life. I also have an iPad mini with the Kindle app installed so I can also read my books on this. The reading experience however is not quite as kind on the eyes on the mini and I assume other tablets because of the backlit screen. Also the battery life of the tablets is something to think about they need charging frequently whereas my Kindle will last nearly a month on each full charge.
Maggie
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Hi HL
All books from kindle will be on kindle fire as well if you use same Amazon account. The reason I don't use kindle fire to read is the fire uses much more charge whereas the ordinary kindle doesn't. I read old kindle everyday. Obviously there is more on the fire so loses charge much more often. There again it is all down to how much you use it.
Like any touch screen it is very sensitive and needs the lightest touch. That took me a while! But wouldn't be without it now!'
Be a devil get one.
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I have an ordinary Kindle, which is the best of all for reading in my opinion due to it having a screen that is kind to the eyes and also an incredibly long battery life. I also have an iPad mini with the Kindle app installed so I can also read my books on this. The reading experience however is not quite as kind on the eyes on the mini and I assume other tablets because of the backlit screen. Also the battery life of the tablets is something to think about they need charging frequently whereas my Kindle will last nearly a month on each full charge.
Maggie
That's interesting, Maggie. We both prefer to read our kindle books on an ipad. I didn't use the kindle for a while and now I am convinced that it is darker but wonder if that is because of reading on an ipad. :-\
Heywood
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Be a devil get one.
Think it's only a matter of time now. I will keep my eye on the new models and decide which to buy very soon :)
I can see that it's more sense to read on the old kindle because of battery life, so that will be the answer.
I've learnt a lot from your replies though, so thank you for all the info :)
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That's interesting, Maggie. We both prefer to read our kindle books on an ipad. I didn't use the kindle for a while and now I am convinced that it is darker but wonder if that is because of reading on an ipad.
I do know what you mean Heywood about the kindle looking darker and I'm sure its because of us getting used to the brightness of a backlit screen. I've been trying out my tablet for reading my book in bed recently, rather than the kindle, and I've noticed that I cannot read for as long on the 'pad because my eyes get tired.
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If you go into your settings you can adjust the brightness of the light on the kindle
Irene
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If you go into your settings you can adjust the brightness of the light on the kindle
Irene
I cant find that on my kindle which is 2 years old.
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Could be wrong groom but I think you can only do that on a Kindle Paperwhite. I have a Kindle touch and also can't alter the brightness but then again I don't find it a problem.
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It's worth remembering that you can read all your kindle books on any other devices that have the kindle app on them.
I was looking at the Kindle Fire HD last year as an option.
In the end, with all things considered we decided on the Google Nexus 7 as it had a crisper higher-resolution screen and it wasn't restricted to Amazon.
An advantage I can see of a Kindle Fire HD is that if you a LoveFilm customer you can watch streaming films on it, but LoveFilm (an Amazon company) don't allow it on other Android devices.
If you search for: Kindle Fire HD vs Google Nexus 7 then there are quite a few reviews out there.
The thing is, you're not going to go far wrong with either. :)
Trystan
PS I still read most of my Kindle books on my old original Kindle, just because the battery lasts for about a month, and I find it a lot easier on the eyes (as it's not lit up).
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Thanks Trystan, I think I will doubtless read books on my old Kindle for the same reasons as you.
I don't see myself watching films on such a device as I'm not a great film fan......well I am but my spare time is usually spent reading or researching trees.
I fancy the game facility and really, really, want something that will give me access to my tree information when I'm away from home.
I'll google Nexus 7 as I know nothing whatever about it. Where/how do you buy the books to download to a device other than the Kindle?
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You do it all from the Kindle App.
The Kindle App is really simple to install too. You go to Google play on the Nexus 7, search the word "Kindle", then press "Install". It's free.
In the same way as with a Kindle Fire you register the device with your amazon account, you do the same with the Kindle app for the first time.
Then the books that you have on your Kindle will be available on your Google Nexus 7 too, and it will synchronise your pages between the devices too.
You can then flip pages and look at your books in just the same way.
Trystan
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Mmm....I've googled now and that does look interesting. I will have to read up on both of them and make my decision. Thanks for that info because I knew nothing about the alternatives. :)
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If you go into your settings you can adjust the brightness of the light on the kindle
Irene
I cant find that on my kindle which is 2 years old.
The old kindles do not have the option of changing the brightness of the screen but the newer versions do. I have a Kindle Fire HD and was able to adjust mine as I found it too bright
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I have a Google Nexus 7 too, as a result of Trystan's recommendation, it's great. :) I also bought a Nook (after asking a similar question on Rootschat and getting no replies from anyone who had one!), It cost me next to nothing and is great for the purpose I wanted it - taking it on holiday and not being too worried about taking it on the beach.
On my tablet I have the Kindle app, I also have the Nook app (and Kobo which I don't use). Websites which list free or cheap books generally do so for Kindle but if you then search on the Nook UK website you can usually find them free too, or at the same price as Kindle. One benefit of Nook is that you can read ebooks that you borrow from your local library. That would be great if my local council stopped living in the last century and got this facility!
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Hi, I have the Kindle Fire HD (using it now), it's great. I have downloaded the Ancestry app which allows me to view my tree anywhere, anytime. If you are away from home you can still view your tree without internet access, although you need internet to view the actual records from Ancestry. Having said that you can download the Ancestry app to any tablet/mobile device. If you are not particularly interested in watching films, maybe you don't need the HD version of Kindle Fire.
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Thanks Jool :)
It's still sounding like the one for me.
I didn't know if the HD was going to be of any benefit but I suppose it is only useful for films, so thanks for your advice.
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You can still watch films, music videos, tv catchups, play games etc. on the Fire, the HD version just makes the picture quality better, same as TV's.
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Ok, thanks, they do an amazing amount of things :)
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Hi HL,
Just to confuse you even more the nexus as Tristan said is better, saw my son's yesterday he swears by it says better than my kindle! But then he would!
My kindle is HD and is brilliant I watch films and have BBC I player for programmes miss. At the end of the day just think of what you want out of it. I have lots of music and games. Obviously you can't access net when you out unless you have wi fi connection.
Finally when I got it last Xmas I was not sure I liked it but once I got into it it was everything I wanted. Can use it anywhere in house even in bed.
Jane
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Thanks Jane, I will continue to think about this. As you say you have to think what you want out of it.......and I also need "simple" :)
At the end of the day, you just have to take the plunge and hope you've made the right choice :)
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It's certainly confusing but in an enjoyable way, HL.
I was in exactly the same position as you this time last year when I was debating which tablet to get. I spent ages in stores looking, asking questions and fiddling with the ones on display. I was tempted by the Kindle Fire but in the end I chose another one ..... I went for expense, because I was due a treat to myself, and bought an ipad mini, and I have no regrets whatsoever. My 12 year old grandson has a Samsung Galaxy, which he says is the best - we have constant discussions about whether his or mine is better but to me they seen to both do more or less the same thing. The tablets are all great little gadgets and so versatile, without any wires trailing about. I would hate to be without mine now.
Enjoy looking and choosing - you won't have regrets.
Maggie :)
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Thanks Maggie. I am still debating and will look at the ipad mini also. I'm not going to rush my decision. I know I need fairly simple.....if there is such a thing. I also want to bear in mind the cost but don't want to pay for a facility I won't use or cut corners and lose out on a facility I would use.
The trouble is you don't really know what you want until you try it out, if you know what I mean. So it's good to hear other peoples opinions. :)
I think you're so right though.....I need to visit the store and fiddle and try......and enjoy the process.
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Microsoft launched its Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 tablets at midnight Tuesday morning.
iPad Air and iPad Mini: Apple announces new models
Nokia’s Lumia 2520
Just a few of the new tablets released this week !!!!
Irene
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Hi Irene, I've just googled and realise the choice is grreeeat. Will have to pay the store a visit and talk and play :)
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For instance I am also thinking of going to WDYTYA in February and would like to know if I would then be able to access my tree whilst at the exhibition.
There wasn't Wifi available at the "WDYTYA Live!" earlier this year so you wouldn't have able to access your online tree whilst there.
If you want to use a tablet away from a Wifi hotspot then you'd need to either get one that you're able to put a SIM card into it (for 3G , LTE or HSPA+ ) or get a little MiFi unit (which is something you put a SIM card into), or set up 'Wifi Tethering' with a smartphone (where you set up your phone as a little wifi unit using your phone's 3G connection).
When we exhibited at WDYTYA earlier this year, we were using tablets and had MiFi units that were on the 'three' network. We used Google Nexus 10 tablets on the exhibit, and they worked brilliantly - with over half the battery life left after a whole day's exhibiting.
Sarah has a Google Nexus 7 (it's got a Sim card in it so that she can use it whilst out and about) and it's compact enough to fit in her handbag.
All the best,
Trystan
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....... and iPad Mini: Apple announces new models
Now with retina display.
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Our library has the facility to download electronic books. You download them for a period of time just like a normal library book, so it's worth asking at your local library if that facility is available
Chris
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Our library has the facility to download electronic books. You download them for a period of time just like a normal library book, so it's worth asking at your local library if that facility is available
Chris
I thought that was a great tip Chris and went to the website for my local library....only to find that a Kindle isn't compatible with their ebook downloads, so that's something to bear in mind.
For instance I am also thinking of going to WDYTYA in February and would like to know if I would then be able to access my tree whilst at the exhibition.
There wasn't Wifi available at the "WDYTYA Live!" earlier this year so you wouldn't have able to access your online tree whilst there.
I'm really shocked at that info Trystan. I would have thought it a pretty basic necessity for everyone there.
That makes me think Sarah's Nexus would be a good option but I wonder if it's complicated. At least I would have known where I was with a Kindle.
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Our library has the facility to download electronic books. You download them for a period of time just like a normal library book, so it's worth asking at your local library if that facility is available
Chris
I thought that was a great tip Chris and went to the website for my local library....only to find that a Kindle isn't compatible with their ebook downloads, so that's something to bear in mind.
Read my post on page 3 of this thread HL! :)
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Read my post on page 3 of this thread HL! :)
I'm so sorry Roobarb :-[
I honestly did read your reply but it obviously didn't go in my simple brain ::)
This thread is helping me to realise exactly what it is I need/want......having not been aware of the various facilities that are actually available anyway.
I have just googled Nook and what a wonderful price it is. Well worth considering when you consider that my library would download to that. (I had never heard of Nook before)
From thinking I needed a Kindle Fire I'm definitely now thinking that a Nexus 7 (which I've also googled) and a Nook would be great.
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I see one of the main retailers has the Kindle HD Fire for £119 at the moment, together with a free £20 gift voucher to spend in the store.
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No worries HL, it gets very confusing doesn't it? :-\
I'm not certain about this and maybe Trystan will be, but I would think that if you download the (free) Nook app to a Nexus tablet, you would be able to borrow ebooks from your library via that app. You may or may not then want the Nook too.
The reason I have the Nook as well as the Nexus is that I can take the Nook on the beach. I wouldn't want to do this with the Nexus, far too expensive to risk it! My Nook is the basic one and was only £40, they had actually gone up in price from £29! They seem to be a bit more expensive again but it's worth checking a number of retailers if you do buy one, they vary significantly.
I'm sure your brain will be in bits by now but no doubt you'll sort out exactly what's best for you.
Good luck and do let us know what you decide on. :)
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Thank you groom.....that's certainly a good offer.
Thank you Roobarb, I honestly didn't mean to ignore you :) I am very interested in the Nook and the Nexus7. I need to visit a store to see what we're talking about and I need to think very carefully. I can't probably justify buying two new items when I already have a Kindle but to have a Nook app on the nexus to get free books is a good idea. I am however, amazed at the price of the Nook as opposed to the Kindle.
You are so right, my brain is in bits......but I will get there......and I will let you know what I buy....but it won't be tommorrow ;)
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I'm not certain about this and maybe Trystan will be, but I would think that if you download the (free) Nook app to a Nexus tablet, you would be able to borrow ebooks from your library via that app. You may or may not then want the Nook too.
Yes, I've just checked, you can install the Nook App on the Google Nexus 7 for free too. It's got a five star rating too with over 5 million downloads.
To install it, I went to "Apps", pressed the Google Play icon on the top-right (it's shaped like a handbag... ::) ) , typed in "Nook" at the top, then pressed the big "Install" button. Bingo, it's on. 1 million free books.
Trystan
Trystan
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I'm not certain about this and maybe Trystan will be, but I would think that if you download the (free) Nook app to a Nexus tablet, you would be able to borrow ebooks from your library via that app. You may or may not then want the Nook too.
Yes, I've just checked, you can install the Nook App on the Google Nexus 7 for free too. It's got a five star rating too with over 5 million downloads.
Trystan
Thanks Trystan, it's looking a very good answer.......watch this space everyone :)
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Great - I just updated my post to show how I installed it, to show it really is very easy.
Trystan
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Bingo, it's on. 1 million free books.
Trystan
That will keep you out of mischief for a while reading those. ;D
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Thanks so much Trystan :)
I've googled and I know a local store sells them and so the next step will be to view and chat and try out :)
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Thanks Trystan, that's not quite what I meant though, obviously didn't express myself properly.
What I meant was, can you access library books via the app (not just direct from a Nook device). I can't really see why not but I'm not techie enough to be sure. :)
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Bingo, it's on. 1 million free books.
Trystan
That will keep you out of mischief for a while reading those. ;D
;D ;D ;D
I'm worried now Roobarb. I see what you mean and I hope Trystan can give the answer I need :-X
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Me too, I've Googled it and I'm even more confused! ???
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What I meant was, can you access library books via the app (not just direct from a Nook device). I can't really see why not but I'm not techie enough to be sure. :)
Sorry, I can't try it out, but our local library (Bury Library (http://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=8253)) lends books electronically in ePub format, which is compatible with the "eBook readers Kobo, Nook and Sony". So, the Nook app on the Nexus 7 would work with books from our library too. :)
I can borrow an Ebook from the library tomorrow if you like on it for sure?
Trystan
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I'd be interested to know Trystan, for if my council ever drags itself into the 21st century!
Any books I download direct to my Nook appear on my Nook app too so it sounds logical.
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I've looked at the website for my local library and although it all seems rather confusing it reads to me as though a Nook first edition and a Nook simple touch are compatible with the sysem they use. It's called OverDrive, if that means anything to anybody.....as opposed to ePub, which Bury use.
Don't know what Nook first edition or Nook simple touch means though.
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The Nook Simple Touch is the one I have, it's just the basic one, great for what I want.
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Seems to be this: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.overdrive.mobile.android.mediaconsole&hl=en
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Yes, our local library use "overdrive" too apparently to deliver their ebooks in the 'ePub' format. Groom has found the app for that too, which is a one-click install too. :)
It isn't that important I don't think - it just means that both our libraries use a company to look after the administration of lending ebooks. It's probably all done centrally.
I'll go down to our library tomorrow to get the low down :)
Trystan
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Thanks Trystan. :)
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Out of interest, I wonder why a Kindle isn't compatible with the library? I presume it is something to do with them wanting you to buy the books rather than borrow them.
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What a shame that libraries don't download to Kindles. I bet you're right groom, that Amazon want you to buy them.
I don't know where you live Roobarb but find it amazing that our town is ahead of any other.....we have a very high oap population. I love my town but we aren't reknown for anything other than sleepy :) I do hope that your library catches up soon. Perhaps you should nag them a little :)
Does this mean Trystan that you (and I, if I buy one) need to download the OverDrive app? Presumably the Nook app won't be the one to use.......or am I confused ::)
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I the Nook app will also work with the library books, because they are in ePub format. By the look of it, the Overdrive app 'returns' the books automatically though - so that could be an advantage.
I'll go down to the library in a few minutes and talk to them. Off to catch the bus....
Trystan
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Do you actually have to go to the library to borrow the book or can you do it remotely?
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Do you actually have to go to the library to borrow the book or can you do it remotely?
Now that really would be a great advantage to me, living where I do.
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I'm at Bury Library now.
You don't need to go to the library to borrow an eBook.
I've had to update my details and get a new library card though to register my email address with it.
The library ebooks will not download to normal kindles, but they will download to Kindle Fire devices via the Overdrive app.
Library books can be downloaded to all Android devices (like the Google Nexus 7 or other similar tablets) using any app that reads epub format (including the Nook app or Overdrive app).
I'm waiting for a chap here to answer a few more questions about it, but he's tied up at the moment. Hopefully they'll untie him soon.
Trystan
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Hopefully they'll untie him soon.
;D ;D ;D ;D
The library ebooks will not download to normal kindles, but they will download to Kindle Fire devices via the Overdrive app.
That's very interesting Trystan. I will have to go to my library to see if that's the same.
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I will have to go to my library to see if that's the same.
It will be, because they use the same company (Overdrive) to deliver the epub library books in your library too.
Right, so now I've got home...
I downloaded the Overdrive app onto my Google Nexus
Went to my local library's website, and followed their link to the ebook lending.
It asked me for my library card number and my password. The password was one that I'd set up when I was in the library earlier.
It then presented me with a list of books to borrow. I just spotted "Researching your Family History Online for Dummies".
I tapped "Borrow".
The Overdrive app then opened up and asked me for an Adobe ID. I didn't have one, so I entered my email address, and a password and my name. Then in Overdrive I typed that in. Apparently you only have to do this the once.
Then about a minute later I see the Dummies book on the screen and I can flick through it.
So that's it.
I noticed that you can download audio books too! Great stuff.
They never did untie that bloke in the library (he didn't get back to me anyhow).
Trystan
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Out of interest, I wonder why a Kindle isn't compatible with the library?
There are unfortunately a number of different ebook formats and manufacturers of single use devices locked their machines to their own favoured format - rather like the old VHS vs Beta struggles with video recorders. As the ebook idea has developed there have been a few reductions in the formats but a standard format has never been developed or accepted.
I presume it is something to do with them wanting you to buy the books rather than borrow them.
Probably a more precise explanation. ::)
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They never did untie that bloke in the library (he didn't get back to me anyhow).
Trystan
;D ;D ;D ;D
Thanks for going to your library Trystan and for all of this information. I have lots to think about now and will probably decide just in time for Father Christmas to make his deliveries this year :)
I hope you enjoy your book.......I wonder if it mentions Rootschat :)
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No it doesn't mention RootsChat. Strange that, considering that you've all made RootsChat the largest completely free family history forum site in the UK. ;D
Now that I've skimmed through it, I've returned it early by clicking on the book cover and pressing return book.
Pretty impressed with how it works really!
Trystan
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Many thanks from me too Trystan, and to Falkryn for the further info. It's great to know how it would work if we ever get the facility!
HL, I live on the North East coast, I'll give you a clue as to exactly where - instead of providing library facilities like this, the council spent our money on a tower on the sea front that was in the final three for Carbuncle of the Year. We didn't win! ;)
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Know where you mean roobarb :-X
My clue is.......a town on the South East coast, where Spike Milligan was posted during WW2 and which he described at one time as the only above ground cemetary :o
I still like it here :)
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I can't find it! The only hit I get for a place he called an above ground cemetery is in Australia! ???
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Oh, yes, well we're not so famous for that anymore obviously......but he definitely said it.
Try finding where he was stationed on the South Coast in WW2 :)
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I think I know ;D Is there a Pavillion there?
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;D ;D ;D
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Did it have a pier that burned down?
I read 'Adolf Hitler, my part in his downfall' but it was years ago. Perhaps I'll revisit it on my Nook/Kindle app. ;D ;D ;D
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just marking the thread in case I get one for Christmas :) :) :) :)
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Good idea, we have rather strayed off topic though. ;)
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Hi all
I've just downloaded the free overdrive app to my Kindle Fire HD, no problems. I have now joined my local library (Wolverhampton), I did it online with no need to visit the library, they will post my library card and email my pin number tomorrow. There is a comment on the library website which says "Unfortunately, you can't download onto Kindle devices because Amazon does not support the service". I will try borrowing an e book tomorrow night, hopefully the overdrive app will work, I will let you know.
There is no comment saying you have to live in Wolverhampton to join the library so I don't see why those of you who don't have e book facilities at your local library couldn't join just to use the online facilities, or any other library nearer to you.
Jool
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The i newspaper has a page comparing the different tablets today.
Did it have a pier that burned down?
Not if it is where I think - different pavillion, but it is near where a pier burnt down in 2010.
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Next town along roobarb :) (6 miles or so west)
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Would that be about 6 miles along the shore ? ;)
Not a place I'm at all familiar with but it looks lovely. Had to Google everything as i'm rubbish at geography. :)
Jool, the form asks for an address, not sure if I'd dare go for it!
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I loaded the free Aldiko reader on to my Kindle Fire HD and can read library e-books and other e-pub titles using that.
Most libraries that offer e-books require the borrower to have an address in the relevant county. Some time ago I joined a library in another county to get access to online reference sources, but to borrow their e-books requires a home address in that county.
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Good grief Penfold!
Apologies to Danger Mouse!
Not been here for while didn't realise this still going on!
It suits me go for it. But don't blame me if it doesn't suit. Only joking. You will love it.!
Jane
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Hi Roobarb, following up on Isabel's post, maybe you could join another library in your County for e books. I am a member of Lancashire Libraries although I live in the Midlands, I joined to get access to their British newspapers online, but I've not tried to borrow e books from them.
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Wow.
I hadn't thought of that.
So I've signed up with two different nearest councils now for their libraries - and one of them gave me the library card number right there on the screen so I'll be able to download books onto my Nexus from them straight away. That's brilliant - thank you!
(Thanks to Hampshire Lass for opening this rather good can of bookworms!)
Trystan
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(Thanks to Hampshire Lass for opening this rather good can of bookworms!)
Trystan
We are covering quite a bit of ground aren't we and hopefully all the advice is helping lots of us.
Hope you all manage to get library books for free.
Going back to grooms first reply to me, I'm wondering if the ancestry app for the Kindle Fire gives access to ancestry.co.uk trees because the app seems to be for ancestry.com
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I'm fairy sure it will, as I have it on my Android tablet and although it says Ancestry.com it allows me to acesss my trees from Ancestry uk. I've just turned the tablet on to check and it has synced with the tree I was working on today.
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:) Thanks groom
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HL, I have the Ancestry app on my kindle fire and iphone, it is Ancestry.co.uk :)
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Well Jool, I've gone ahead and done it! Had a look at the web page for the neighbouring unitary authority which is in the same county and it let me join. :) :) Well I was born there for heaven's sake so they should. ;)
I'll just have to get myself to one of their libraries now to collect my card. Great idea though, thanks. ;D
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That's great Roobarb :D When my card arrives I will check what Wolverhampton library have to offer and maybe try joining another. Getting greedy now ;D
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I just want to be able to read my favourite authors without paying megabucks for an ebook but I don't blame you for getting what you can! ;)
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Lancashire Libraries is definitely worth joining for anyone interested in 17th/18th/19th century national and local newspapers online (as well as the ebooks which I haven't tried yet). I joined a couple of years ago, it's free to anyone with a UK address and they post your card to you. I've found lots of articles relating to my family.
http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/web/?siteid=6328&pageid=37311#anchor192551
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Roobarb, that's great, so now you can read books for free. :)
Jool, thanks for confirming about the ancestry app. :)
Am I to understand that everyone is now, or will soon be able to, read their library books on either the Kindle Fire or Nexus?
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It's just another gadget that they use to spy on you :o :o :o
http://netsecurity.about.com/od/newsandeditoria2/a/Is-Your-Kindle-Spying-On-You.htm
And there's many more.
Regards
Malky
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I'm sure you're right Malky but why do they bother to monitor rubbish like that ::)
I mean, who on earth can really be interested in which bits of a book I skip or which paragraphs I read twice or how long it takes me to read a page ::)
As for Amazon watching you, well they must do, to be then able to make recommendations for future purchases. The trouble with my recommendations is that I've bought books for myself, my husband and presents for others and the genres that covers is massive.
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I've just done a bit of googling and it looks to me (but I could be wrong ::) ) as though the Ancestry app, which works on Kindle Fire or Nexus etc actually downloads your tree to the Kindle, Nexus etc and so is therefore viewable when you are say, standing in the middle of a graveyard, with no access to wifi.
Here's a link to one of the places I found this info and you need to scroll down and probably across to read the posts which infer this
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ancestry.android.apps.ancestry&hl=en
......there were other blogs which seemed to be saying the same thing.
Won't know for sure till I make my purchase, or Father Christmas does :)
Speaking of which, if Father Christmas does bring you Ancestry membership Jettejjane then you also could have this app on your Kindle Fire, when you've put your tree on Ancestry. :)
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Hi HL
That seems to be correct, I've just turned the wifi off on my tablet and opened the Ancestry App and can see my tree. You have to make sure that you have previously downloaded it though, as another tree I tried to open told me I wasn't connected. However, once I switched the wifi on, it downloaded it and I was then able to view it when the wifi was off.
Another thing to consider if you plan to use the tablet outside is how good the screen is in sunlight.
I hope you are going to be a very good girl between now and Christmas if you are hoping that Father Christmas will bring you a tablet computer. ;D
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Lancashire Libraries is definitely worth joining for anyone interested in 17th/18th/19th century national and local newspapers online (as well as the ebooks which I haven't tried yet). I joined a couple of years ago, it's free to anyone with a UK address and they post your card to you. I've found lots of articles relating to my family.
http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/web/?siteid=6328&pageid=37311#anchor192551
Anyone with a UK address can join and get access to the newspapers as above, but if you read the FAQ you will find that only members with Lancashire postcodes can borrow e-books. It must be something to do with the terms of their licence.
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Hi HL
That seems to be correct, I've just turned the wifi off on my tablet and opened the Ancestry App and can see my tree. You have to make sure that you have previously downloaded it though, as another tree I tried to open told me I wasn't connected. However, once I switched the wifi on, it downloaded it and I was then able to view it when the wifi was off.
Another thing to consider if you plan to use the tablet outside is how good the screen is in sunlight.
I hope you are going to be a very good girl between now and Christmas if you are hoping that Father Christmas will bring you a tablet computer. ;D
Thanks for doing that groom, very kind of you :)
I presume it would be the same if it was a Kindle Fire. I'm still working out the pros and cons of both and although I think the nexus may be a better "thingy" I have to make sure it's going to be the right "thingy" for me.
and yes I'm trying to be good......I'm very trying ::)
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For the record, I can confirm that my tree is viewable with wifi turned off on an iPad also, using the ancestry app, providing that the tree has been previously downloaded onto the tablet. The pictures and census images are also visible, again as long as each profile page has been opened individually and therefore has downloaded all it's content.
Hope that makes sense ::)
Maggie
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Makes perfect sense Maggie and was just the facility I wanted......can't wait :)
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Hi HL, I can confirm that my Ancestry tree is viewable with wifi off on Kindle Fire too, as long as it has been previously downloaded as with the other devices mentioned. I am not biased towards the Kindle Fire, it was bought for me as a surprise Christmas present so I didn't have the opportunity to look at the other options. I am happy with it but I am sure the Nexus and other tablets are equally good, maybe better.
Jool
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Thanks for checking Jool :)
The jury's still out at the moment and I'm comparing features. I think there is good and bad with each but I'm sure, like everyone else, I will be pleased with whichever I buy.
How lovely for you to have yours as a surprise Christmas present and it's good to hear you're happy with it.
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ebook update. I received my library card today and have successfully borrowed an ebook from my library via the overdrive app on my Kindle Fire, with a little help from Trystan's instructions (thanks Trystan). I borrowed Family History on the Net which is basically a list of useful websites - and yes, Rootschat is listed ;D
Jool
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Whoohoo :) That's great!
I'm waiting for my Lancashire Libraries library card. I'm quite looking forward to that! I should get out more...
Trystan
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Just had a thought, which I can't seem to google and find a satisfactory answer to.
Many of you have Kindle Fire and Nexus 7 and probably other andriod tablets. Do you have any security installed, as we do on our PCs?
The more I think about it......purchasing items, accessing tree info whilst travelling, answering emails whilst away from home......the less secure these devices seem to be.
I guess you just have to go with the flow and hope for the best :)
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I have AVG AntiVirus free on my android tablet. I downloaded it from Cnet. It picked up a threat from one of the apps I downloaded and allowed me to delete it.
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Hi HL, I had the same worrying thought recently and downloaded the free version of Lookout. It scans apps for malware and spyware.
https://www.lookout.com/
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Thanks for that groom and Jool. Obviously one of them is going to be the answer then :)
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I don't buy anything via my tablet, I only do so via my computer at home which has robust defences! Some of the anti virus programs can be installed on a tablet in addition to your computer so it's worth checking whether yours is one of these.
I was hoping to tell you by now that I've borrowed my first ebook from the library but unfortunately I haven't. I went to collect my library card yesterday and the guy told me that it might take 24 hours to activate. Being a bit impatient I tried it last night and today but can't get in. :(
Strangely enough I can access the historic newspapers but not the books. Will have to ring them tomorrow.
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Many of you have Kindle Fire and Nexus 7 and probably other andriod tablets. Do you have any security installed, as we do on our PCs?
No, I don't find that there is any real requirement for additional security on an Android device myself. It will gobble power that bit quicker, and slow the thing down a bit without a massive amount of benefit.
The email I receive on a tablet are via Gmail, and I limit the apps I install to ones that have a lots of positive feedback on the Google Play store.
The Android operating system itself has its own layers of security by design restricting what an user (or rogue app) can do to the device.
The Kindle Fire is not a pure android device, as such, but a modified version of android itself and orienting itself to content from Amazon only, via its own app store. Android tablets can download directly from the wider market of the Google Play store (and you can also download an app for the Amazon market too to run on Android devices).
Trystan
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Interesting info, thanks Trystan.
I don't know how on earth I've managed to quote my own post and say nothing. :-[
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I played a game of "spot the difference" in your quoted one myself to see if anything was different! :) Kept me entertained for a couple of minutes.
I've removed the quoted one for you :)
Trystan
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Well.......that's strange.......I think you deleted my reply too Trysan :)
I'll try and remember what I wrote ::) ;D
It went something like this.....
Thank you Trystan and Roobarb.
I don't think I would buy anything via a tablet, only on my pc. Obviously if I decide not to install any security you need to use a degree of common sense and be careful.
I wondered about emails though, since if you read or write an email, any emails in your inbox are viewable and could contain a/c information if they are a receipt for a purchase.
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Wooh - sorry something must have gone wrong there or something!
If the website that you're visiting has "https" in the browser and is a valid secure site, there is no reason not to buy anything via an Android tablet or Android mobile. All communication is secured by that industry-grade encryption. Adding an antivirus device to an android device is not going to add any better or extra protection for you with a secure site - it will pass right through it.
Trystan
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Wooh - sorry something must have gone wrong there or something!
That's ok, perhaps it was me :)
If the website that you're visiting has "https" in the browser and is a valid secure site, there is no reason not to buy anything via an Android tablet or Android mobile. All communication is secured by that industry-grade encryption. Adding an antivirus device to an android device is not going to add any better or extra protection for you with a secure site - it will pass right through it.
Trystan
That's interesting info Trystan. It's just that I found some info, whilst googling, that made it sound as though https wasn't secure on a Kindle Fire. Brought to mind what Flattyybasher9 said about them spying on you, since that's more or less what the thread I found was saying.
Think I'll not get too paranoid here though. Just was interested in what (if any) precautions others take......and your answers have been helpful :)
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I worried about security when I got my iPad mini but all the forums and info I looked at inferred that because of the way it worked, to download security was unnecessary, in fact it seemed that using it to buy things, banking etc was safer than via a PC as long as the 'pad hadn't been jailbroken. See this discussion:-
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/5255670
I've actually read somewhere that it's safer to do your internet banking via an iPad than it is on a PC, but cannot find it - will keep looking. I can only speak as an iPad owner though.
Maggie
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Hiya Hampshire Lass,
The Android operating system and Apple IPad's operating system are both from a common stable ancestry of unix (or linux), and are widely regarded as having very good security by design.
Kindle Fire isn't a pure Android device, but my comment was only on Android tablets, I'm sorry. It's most probably just as secure on the Kindle Fire too in all honesty - but I don't know what you've read.
The way that "https" pages work is that it 'breaks' if somebody or something gets in between you and the site - so you know that it's no longer secure.
Yes, I think we can be a little over-worried about some things I think, simple practical common sense is usually the best order of the day. Only buy from well known companies or sites, use the sites that you trust, and go off trusted feedback of other users. Watch your bank statements. If there's anything strange, contact them and report it.
It's no different to using a desktop computer really, except that the operating system is inherently more secure.
Trystan
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Thanks Trystan :)
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This might be useful. It relates to banking but would apply to retail sites as well:-
http://money.cnn.com/2012/08/08/pf/mobile-banking.moneymag/
The threat is small but Androids are more vulnerable than Apple iOS.
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Perhaps the most important thing is to be careful where you are using your gadget. An Internet City WiFi communal Hotspot for example could expose you to risk but using on a safe wifi connection you should be fine.
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The threat is small but Androids are more vulnerable than Apple iOS.
Erm, no... if you don't download any dodgy apps for either platform they are equally as secure.
Both are natively as secure as each other.
Perhaps the most important thing is to be careful where you are using your gadget. An Internet City WiFi communal Hotspot for example could expose you to risk but using on a safe wifi connection you should be fine.
That's great advice - yes! Where possible use your own 3G connection - and if you are using another wifi connection, make sure the pages you are visiting are using "https" otherwise the details that you can provide are very easily "sniffed".
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Erm, no... if you don't download any dodgy apps for either platform they are equally as secure.
Yep - sure you're right Trystan :)
But I was just quoting from link I posted that apparently .....
Malware, the software likely needed for such an attack, virtually doesn't exist for Apple's iOS. Google's Android platform is more vulnerable, says Kevin Mahaffey of mobile security firm Lookout.
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Good grief Penfold!
Apologies to Danger Mouse!
Not been here for while didn't realise this still going on!
It suits me go for it. But don't blame me if it doesn't suit. Only joking. You will love it.!
Jane
Update Well, I've taken the plunge and have ordered a Kindle Fire :D
For a while the Nexus7 looked like it was going to be the winner but in the end the Kindle won :)
Thank you all so much for your help. I hope we all learnt things from this thread.......and no I won't blame you Jane if I don't like it. In the end it's all down to me :)
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Well done HL - how exciting and I know you'll not regret it. When does it come? Let us know how you get on.
Maggie :)
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Thanks Maggie. I'll let you know how it goes.
Well, to be more accurate, if you don't see any desperate pleas for help on the technical board you can bet all is well :)
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I'm sure you'll have great fun with it HL. I can even access Rootschat on my tablet! :)
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My sister and I have just ordered 3 of these for Christmas for her grandchildren - my great nephews. They look a good deal and will do everything they want ie download games and watch youtube etc. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/news/10404379/Carphone-Warehouse-trumps-Tesco-and-Argos-with-49-tablet.html
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Wow, that is cheap groom. :o
Further to the saga of my library access......
I still couldn't 'borrow' an ebook from the library today so I phoned them, it was simply that the person who would normally grant access was absent but they soon had it sorted for me. I was so pleased that I just went ahead and selected a book for downloading to Nook, then clicked 'Borrow'. My tablet showed that it had been downloaded but I can't find it! I've looked for it in the Nook library on my tablet and in the library on my Nook itself. No sign of it. ::)
I then downloaded the Overdrive app to my tablet ( yes, doing it back to front :-[ ) and looked in the library there, although I didn't really expect it to be there and it wasn't.
Any advice on this please Trystan? (Or anyone else who can help). ???
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I know when i use my library to download books (they don't use the same operating system but Adobe digital editions) i can download the book more than once.
Go back to the site you downloaded the book from and look to see if this is the case and re-download (if possible).
Overdrive (if the principle is the same as Adobe) should open aand your book should show up.
There should also be a FAQ section which might be able to point you in the right direction if downloading again doesn't work.
Hope you are sucessful and enjoy your book.
Jo
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Thanks Jo, I'll give that a try. Watch this space! ;)
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Hampshire Lass,
Delighted to hear that you've taken the plunge of getting a tablet - you'll really enjoy using it I'm sure!
(Says me, typing this reply on a tablet too...)
My library card for Lancashire library arrived today too - so I was delighted that I'm now able to borrow their EBooks as well.
Trystan
(Tonight on the Google Nexus 10)
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I've signed into the library via the Overdrive app and the book is there on my bookshelf. It gives me the option to download as an EPUB ebook or read in my browser. I've already downloaded it so am still confused. How do I get it and any others onto my Nook (and Nook app on my tablet) ? ??? ???
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Well you can read it directly from the Overdrive app (I'm reading one on the Google Nexus, "The Secrets of Station X" - all about code breaking in WW11)
Right, so let me try this...
OK, I've spotted a book called "Cribs for Victory"
I click the big red "Borrow" button.
It then gives me the option of 'Download EPub' read in browser.
I click Download EPub.
It then says Book has been added to your Bookshelf.
I look behind me, and I don't see a new book.
Ah, but I look in Overdrive under bookshelf, and a new book has miraculously appeared there.
To read the book in Overdrive, I tap it and start reading.
Right, now this is where it gets interesting for you:
Go back to the Menu on the left and click "Files" and it list the Books, and it says that they are Downloaded as EPUB file.
We just need to know where they are downloaded now - so that you can move it onto your Nook (or Nook App)...
Trystan
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Have followed all those steps after you Trystan, everything is exactly as you say. I've had a look at the Nook app to see if it had miraculously loaded the book but unfortunately not.
Last night I trawled through the Overdrive Help pages and downloadedAdobe Digital Editions. I didn't really know what I was doing but whatever it was it didn't succeed in getting anything to my Nook. I gave up eventually, it was doing my head in! ::)
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Is this any help?
http://ruthtillman.com/tutorial-library-books-nook-overdrive/
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Following this with great interest Trystan.
Yesterday I decided to use my library card to try to download a book onto my iPad. First hitch was that library card had expired through inactivity and apparently I no longer existed. I called in the library today and reinstated myself and have just spent the last hour trying to download A Book. I managed to download the Overdrive App without hitch but then had to go down the 'lost password' route with Adobe, all successfully accomplished and now I have now downloaded the book as an EPUB and can read it within the Overdrive App.
Presumably, from how I understand your reply to Roobarb I should now be able to move the book onto the Kindle app on my iPad? Or am I misunderstanding something here ???
Quick message for Hampshire Lass .............. the librarian who sorted out my defunct library card today told me she had a Kindle Fire and she was absolutely delighted with it. She has downloaded library books and it all works perfectly. Incidentally this same librarian was most impressed with me, a representative of the Older Generation, as I had heard of 'Overdive' and 'knew about tablets'. ;D ;D
Maggie
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Hmmmmm.........
Ignore most of the above - I think I've found out how to do it.
Edit - no I haven't. I think I have to read the book within the Overdrive app. That's perfectly acceptable. Apols for confusion.
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Groom, thank you, that is helpful .... to a certain extent! It looks as though I have to do the download on my computer before transferring it to my Nook. Or perhaps it's just me reading it wrongly, I'll let you know if and when I've sussed it out. Trystan will probably get there before me. ;)
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Quick message for Hampshire Lass .............. the librarian who sorted out my defunct library card today told me she had a Kindle Fire and she was absolutely delighted with it. She has downloaded library books and it all works perfectly. Incidentally this same librarian was most impressed with me, a representative of the Older Generation, as I had heard of 'Overdive' and 'knew about tablets'. ;D ;D
Maggie
Hi all,
I'm following this conversation with trepidation :) Doubtless I shall be having the same difficulties soon. :)
It's nice to know the librarian is pleased with her Kindle Fire and it's good she was impressed by your knowledge Maggie.
I do hope you all resolve the problems and manage to get your books successfuly downloaded soon.
If Trystan is actually reading a book on his nexus why is there difference between what he's done and what you have to do? (silly question probably, so just ignore me :))
Good luck :)
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I can read it on my Nexus but I want to download it to the Nook app so it also appears on my Nook ereader. Not planning on reading on the beach at the moment but I want to be able to do it when that opportunity arises. ;)
I've dowloaded Overdrive to my computer, borrowed a book (I returned the others) and found it on Adobe Digital Edition. I then plugged in my Nexus and dragged the book as directed. It now appears in the file 'contents' but I can't see it in my Nook library on the Nexus. ??? Am completely baffled now. ??? ??? ??? (There is no Nook icon appearing on Adobe D.E.)
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Thinking about this again, I think perhaps I'll have to connect the Nook device itself for the Nook icon to appear and facilitate the transfer. I'll leave that for tomorrow. :o
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I have the original nexus 7. Is there a safe site that I can download a large variety of free books. I am interested in detective/thrillers and cookery. Google play does not seem to cater to my taste in free books. I would be happy to pay for magazines...but am interested in felted knitting/crochet,spinning, peg looking and do not find Google play offers much in that line. Sandra
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TRy these Sandra, you'll find plenty of thrillers and detective books, not sure about the craft ones though:
http://uk.ereaderiq.com/
http://www.freebooksifter.com/uk/?n
http://uk.freereadfeed.com/
I like the first one best, I like the layout. There's also an Under £1 section and a section for recent price drops.
The Freebies tab on this site often gives links to books that have recently come up as free:
http://www.hotukdeals.com/all/freebies/new
Hope you find something you like. :)
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Roobarb, thanks for sharing those links, I'll have a good mooch through them tomorrow. Hope you sort your Nook problem out :)
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I have the original nexus 7. Is there a safe site that I can download a large variety of free books. I am interested in detective/thrillers and cookery. Google play does not seem to cater to my taste in free books. I would be happy to pay for magazines...but am interested in felted knitting/crochet,spinning, peg looking and do not find Google play offers much in that line. Sandra
I wondered if you could download this app to your nexus and then have access to some of the books on Amazon.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Amazon-com-Kindle-for-Android/dp/B004DLPXAO/ref=sr_1_1?s=mobile-apps&ie=UTF8&qid=1383295137&sr=1-1&keywords=kindle+app
I could be wrong in my understanding of this though, so can someone confirm it for us before you go ahead :)
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Roobarb you are so kind. Very helpful advice. Will now get into downloaded books in a big way. Many thanks sandra
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Hampshire lass thank you for that site. I will wait to see or Google yo check if its good for my precious nexus.
B beginning to think about a nook or kindle second hand. That's the trouble with technology, what seems to be an indulgence and an unnecessary spend suddenly becomes a need!
Sandra
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I have the original nexus 7. Is there a safe site that I can download a large variety of free books.
Sandra,
Hampshire Lass has got it right (although it's easier go through the Google Play app store - unless the android is set up to allow 'downloads from third parties' - but getting a bit techie here!)
Yes, just go to the Google Play app store on your Nexus 7 and download the "Amazon Kindle" app. Once you have that, you can install all the free books that are available just as would do on a Kindle. You don't need to own a Kindle to use it.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amazon.kindle
Also, you can go to the Google Play app store and download the "Nook" app, and again you'll have access to all the free Nook books too.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=bn.ereader
The benefit also is that if you have a Kindle or a Nook, you can synchronise where you are up to in a book on all your devices. So you can read a few pages on your phone whilst on the bus, get into work then continue on your PC, then at lunch time read a few more pages on your tablet, and then after work go to the beach (we wish) and read it on a little Kindle. (Yes, that does sound like fiction!)
Trystan
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I've just found this thread, and as the very new owner of a Samsung tablet, I'm finding it very helpful. :)
I have a Kindle also so perhaps the first app I'll be brave enough to download will be the Amazon one. I like the sound of the Nook one too, and I'll have to investigate about e-books and local libraries here.The possibilities seem endless. :D
Dee :)
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Forgot to say that you need the Kindle app, thanks for clarifying Trystan. :)
Haven't sorted the Nook problem yet, I'm still psyching myself up to it! Wasn't a beach day today anyway. ;)
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.. I am also thinking of going to WDYTYA in February and would like to know if I would then be able to access my tree whilst at the exhibition.
I took mine last year and couldn't find a wifi connection to log on to. The exhibitors have their own - but it is not open to visitors..
Milly
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I was given my Kindle Fire earlier in the year but wasn't really sure what to do with it as I like real books. But I am slowly getting into it..
A few weeks ago I found ALL the Wilkie Collins novels as free kindle books...I am working my way through them all. Most were written late 1800s - and some refer to earlier times... They are a great read for us genealogy folks as they tell a story but also describe life at the time and discuss social issues etc.. I can highly recommend them!
Milly
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Oooh, those books sound interesting Milly, I'll look into them when my Kindle arrives :)
As regards your previous comment about tree access whilst at WDYTYA......my understanding now is that if you get the free Ancestry app from the Kindle store on Amazon and then download your Ancestry trees onto the Kindle , via this app, then they can be accessed at any time, without wifi connection. Of course you have to have your tree on Ancestry in the first place and lots of people don't......but luckily I do.
This whole thread has been a learning curve for me though and until I get my Kindle and start playing I won't know for sure what it can do.
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Just as an add on there are Genealogy Apps available in the Google Play store and in Apples App store which allow you to transfer a gedcom file and view your tree on your tablet/pad. Some are free and some cost only a few pounds.
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Thanks for that, Falkryn. As a very new beginner with apps, I need all the hints I can get.
Dee :)
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HL - Once you download the ancestry app and open it up, you then log into your ancestry account and your tree will be viewable within the app so you don't have to do anything. It looks slightly different but it's very user friendly. It will be viewable off line but any attached images will have to be opened and thus downloaded onto your tablet before you can see them offline.
Don't forget that with an Internet connection you can always go onto the main ancestry website and view the entire site in the same way as you do on your PC via your tablets browser, as you would with RootsChat, which doesn't have a special app (at least I don't think it does ::))
Maggie
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Thanks Maggie. So does that mean if you are say, at someones house and they don't have wifi and you want to show them a census entry or photo, you need to have previously downloaded them individually and if you haven't done so all they will be able to view will be the tree?
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For anyone who uses Tribal Pages to host their tree there is also an App for that - available for both the iPad and Android tablets
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Thanks Maggie. So does that mean if you are say, at someones house and they don't have wifi and you want to show them a census entry or photo, you need to have previously downloaded them individually and if you haven't done so all they will be able to view will be the tree?
Yes HL. What you would have to do is open up your tree within the app before you go to the other person's house and highlight the person who you want to see the images for. There is a menu on the right hand side where you get access to any photos or census images that you have previously attached to this person in your tree on the ancestry website. These images are then downloaded to your tablet individually - it takes a few seconds. I need to check this but I think they remain visible until you close the app. You would need to leave the app running in the background even if you are browsing in other places. Once you close the app any photos etc will have to be downloaded again on re-opening the app if you want to see them again.
It sounds complicated but it isn't at all and any downloading is done quickly.
Maggie
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Thanks for that info Maggie :)
I'm quite surprised that you need to keep the app open and pictures and censuses are not technically permanently downloaded.....but it's still good the facility is there.
I was hoping to show my cousin, who is 3 hours travel from me......but by the time I get there the battery will be nearly flat :)
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Hello again HL,
I've been experimenting offline in the ancestry app. What seems to happen is the photos are all visible as large thumbnails, therefore viewable, but when you click to enlarge one a message comes up informing you that you have to be online to perform this operation. However there is no consistency in this as some of my pics DID open when offline and I can only assume its because I have recently opened them within the app - perhaps there is a cut-off point time wise or there is an offline file size limitation.
Similarly with the census images, which seem to appear as thumbnails when they have been recently viewed within the app, but they are too small to read and they will not open to full size without an Internet connection.
If they have them, the people in the tree have their picture icon whether on or off line and sources are viewable. Large thumbnail views of any notes are there but again you need to be online to read them properly.
Following on from Falkyrn's post - I have an app called MobileFT Pro (I think there is an android version) that allows me to upload a gedcom of my tree and I can view it offline. It's ok but getting photos and images on it is labour intensive and to upload images takes up a lot of memory on my tablet.
Maggie :)
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Thanks so much for taking the time to experiment with your Kindle and for explaining it to me Maggie.
I can't wait to get started now :)
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You will be fine HL. Go with that ancestry app - it works well.
Just had to break off to get 2 sheep out of the garden. :o
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Sheep??? :o
Are you on a farm?
and yes I will get the app and I'm sure I'll be fine and will get lots of pleasure from all of it this winter.
I think that RC members are going to be easily identifiable at WDYTYA next year because we're all going to be wandering around staring at our tablets.
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Are you on a farm?
No, but surrounded by farmland. Those sheep have hundreds of acres to wander in but they seem to prefer jumping into our garden.
Half the fun of a tablet is learning how to use it, and you can learn to use it in the comfort of an armchair with your feet up, or in bed, or anywhere. It will become your New Best Friend ........ Enjoy :) :) :)
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Half the fun of a tablet is learning how to use it, and you can learn to use it in the comfort of an armchair with your feet up, or in bed, or anywhere.
I agree, Maggie. I've had mine a year and I'm still discovering how to do things. I worked out today how to change the onscreen keyboard so it showed a £ sign instead of a $.
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HL, something else to consider, my Kindle came with a cable to charge it via a p.c. but not a plug to charge via a wall socket. I happened to have plugs from another device which I use in the wall socket, more convenient for me as I sometimes plug it in while I am using it if it is getting low (like now). You can buy them online, Amazon sell them. I have to buy a new one soon as one of ours blew up in the socket when I pulled the cable out of the Kindle, frightened me to death :o. No damage to the Kindle but the plug was in 2 pieces.
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Thanks Maggie and groom and Jool, I'm sure it will take a while but I'll enjoy the process.
I'm hoping that the plug I have for my basic Kindle will work for both Jool.
As for your sheep Maggie, I think they must find the "other man's grass is always greener"......perhaps your garden is tastier than their fields. :)
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I've done it, I've done it, I've done it! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Well to a certain extent anyway. ::)
I connected my Nook (the device itself) to the computer and up popped the Nook icon. I opened Adobe Digital Editions and as instructed in the tutorial I dragged and dropped the book into the Nook (after Nook had authorised). I then ejected the Nook and refreshed the library and there was the book! ;D
I then went to the Nook app on my tablet but the book wasn't there even after refreshing and restarting my tablet. :( Will have to look into that one further but at least it's on my Nook itself which is what I particularly wanted. (Not going to the beach today either, just had a thunderstorm ;) )
Falkryn, thanks for the info about the Tribal Pages app, I have it bookmarked on my Nexus and was able to access my tree when I had no internet connection but an app will be much more straightforward.
HL, if you buy a Nook as well be aware that you only get a lead to charge it from your computer. Having said that, it last for ages on one charge.
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This thread has been of enormous help. Man y thanks to all contributors.
Sandra
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Well, my Kindle Fire HDX has arrived and I already love it and am getting the hang of things.
BUT there are a few big disappointments :'(
Firstly, I went to my library to check if my card was still valid......and found that my library does not download to Kindles, although it does use the Overdrive app. That's my fault because I missed some smallprint on their website. They did say things will probably change in the future though.
Secondly, I downloaded the Ancestry App from Amazon.......and found it didn't arrive. After speaking to an Amazon adviser about what I assumed was a problem with my Kindle......I found that this App is not compatible with the Kindle Fire HDX
I've contacted Ancestry to point out that this is a disappointment in the extreme. All the research I /we did pointed to the opinion that it would work fine and indeed it would with any other model of Kindle. So from that respect, I chose the wrong model. Ancestry have responded by saying they will pass my email on to their technical department for consideration. I hope they get lots more similar emails because my lone voice is unlikely to be heard.
So, I won't be wandering around WDYTYA with any access to my tree......but I'm still pleased with the Kindle and who knows, Ancestry and Amazon may decide to make this app compatible with my Kindle in due course.
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Hi HL - thanks for the update, I was only wondering the other day whether you now had your 'Fire and if you were enjoying it. I can well understand your disappointment with the two issues, particularly with the Ancestry one I would imagine. I would think that you will not be the only one who complains about this lack on Ancestry's part and as the Kindle Fire HDX is such a popular choice of tablet that it won't be long before the Ancestry boffins create a compatible app.
In the meantime enjoy your new gadget.
Maggie :)
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Thanks Maggie, I don't regret my decision, just thought I would update you all incase anyone else on RC was thinking of buying one. It still does a lot of other things, so I will still enjoy :)
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Its worth considering the critical review on amazon. Its very constructive. Sandra
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Hi Sandra, what did you mean by critical review? :)
I've just written a customer review in the hopes of bringing it to the attention of those who could do something about it and also to warn anyone else who may be unaware that it's not compatible with the HDX model.
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Hi
Its the review on amazon I was referring to, not your post.. So sorry if there has been a misunderstanding.
Sandra
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Hi Sandra, no need for an apology, just me being thick :)
Hopefully the review I put on Amazon, as well as my email to them and Ancestry may make someone think. Can only do what you can do and then hope for the best.
Still really love it though :) but would like that app
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Glad that's sorted. Would hate to ruffle feathers:-)
I think I would like the kindle HD fire but am still scrambling thru all the inf on the net.
Sandra
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That's a shame HL, especially after all the research. I cant see anywhere where it says it isn't compatible with the HD version, so as it says it can be used with a Kindle Fire it is very misleading. Perhaps as that model is so new they just haven't got round to tweaking it so that it can be used. When I first got my android tablet there were some Apps that wouldn't load, but they do now.
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That's a shame HL, especially after all the research. I cant see anywhere where it says it isn't compatible with the HD version, so as it says it can be used with a Kindle Fire it is very misleading. Perhaps as that model is so new they just haven't got round to tweaking it so that it can be used. When I first got my android tablet there were some Apps that wouldn't load, but they do now.
Groom, I use the Ancestry app on my Kindle Fire HD, but HL has the new HDX version.
HL, you must be quite disappointed about the app, hopefully they will make it available soon. Glad to hear you are enjoying your Kindle though.
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Groom, I use the Ancestry app on my Kindle Fire HD, but HL has the new HDX version.
In that case, it is probably only a matter of time until they adapt it to use on the HDX. ;D Hope so for HL, as that was one of the reasons she wanted a tablet.
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HL, I went to your review of the Ancestry app on Amazon and clicked the yes button where it asks was this review helpful. Maybe if other Rootschatters have a few minutes to spare they could do the same, it may get your review noticed by Ancestry ;D
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I've got the Kindle Fire HD and have just downloaded the Ancestry App - so fingers crossed it works on that.
In the meantime.... I have now ready every free Kindle book by Wilkie Collins I could find (all of them back to back highly recommended as posted somewhere earlier in this thread).
Can anyone recommend any other free kindle books I can start on? (bearing in mind I already read all the Jane Austens and the Brontes)
Milly
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Sandra........don't give it another thought, I promise you my feathers are very smooth :)
Being "simple" I couldn't understand what you meant at the time :)
If you decide to get the Kindle HD this app will work with it (I think ::))
Jool......thank you so much for voting on my review, it was very kind of you.
I notice someone else has as well, so thank you. It's "lurking" under the one star reviews if anyone else has the time :)
Groom......I've ever hopeful that the app will be compatible one day. Serve me right for buying the latest model, which doubtless has lots of tweeking to be done on it.
Milly.....I remember you saying about the Wilkie Collins books now. I've put them on my "things to do later" list :) Christmas shopping calls now but I'm going to look into them later today. I must say that any free books I've downloaded in the past haven't been good but perhaps others have some suggestions for you.
Thank you all for your help and I assure you I am pleased with it overall.
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Like HL I haven't found any free books that I fancy for my Kindle, but a lot of the books I would otherwise buy as paperbacks are cheaper. Just a pity that you can't lend them to others as you would a real book - or can you?
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Like HL I haven't found any free books that I fancy for my Kindle, but a lot of the books I would otherwise buy as paperbacks are cheaper. Just a pity that you can't lend them to others as you would a real book - or can you?
You might have to lend them your Kindle for them to read it on! ;D ;D ;D
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I voted on your review too ;D
Mily
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I voted on your review too ;D
Mily
Thank you Milly very kind of you :)
This is written on my new toy ;D. With a degree of difficulty :)
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So did I - so that's at least 3 responses they'll get.
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Make that four!
Very sorry to hear that you couldn't use the app HL, I hope they soon sort it out.
I'm amazed that some people can't dind any free books they fancy, there are stacks of them! Try this link, there are over forty-one thousand so I'm sure there'll be something for everyone's taste:
http://www.rootschat.com/links/0x1w/
:)
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Ooh thank you folks. Your votes are keeping my review at the top and so maybe it may be drawn to the attention of those who can do something about the situation.
I can see now where "critical review" came from Sandra, I didn't realise that was what it was called ::) (obvious really ::))
Anyway, I've had a quick look at the Wilie Collins books and they look very interesting. So too does the link to the free books Roobarb. I've just not had any luck with enjoying the free books I have downloaded ......and life is way too short to plough through something you're not enjoying, I feel.
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I had a quick look at the free books on that link, but couldn't see any of the genre I like on the first 12 pages. Is there a way to sort them into types, or do you have to go through them all? I prefer historical novels - I dont like detective or romances, a lot looked that sort.
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Yes .........click on "Kindle books" which is in small blue print on the left hand side groom and it opens up all the different genres which then takes you to free books which may interest you.......says me, who has also, up till now, never found any free books which interest me :)
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Try these, you can sort by genre in all of them:
http://uk.ereaderiq.com/
http://www.freebooksifter.com/uk/?n
http://uk.freereadfeed.com/
If I find books on Amazon by my favourite authors that are too expensive I add them to my Wish List, then keep checking to see if they've dropped in price. On the first of the websites above you can sign up for them to alert you to specific price drops. You might get bombarded with emails though so it might be a good idea to filter them to a separate folder.
If you sign up for the Amazon Daily Deal you'll get a daily email with low prices for particular books. Some of them are only 99p, I don't mind paying that! ;)
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Anyway, I've had a quick look at the Wilie Collins books and they look very interesting.
Two most famous are "Woman in White" and "Moonstone" both of which are excellent... I read those ages ago - and since I got my kindle I just worked my way through all the free books listed. Most were really good - other than the ones that were just vehicles for short stories which I didn't like so much. I didn't realise he was a good friend of Charles Dickens and they even did some work together....but Wilkie Collins is A LOT easier to read!
Milly
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Thanks for links Roobarb... I will take a look. I think part of the problem as that there are so many to choose from it is hard to decide!
Milly
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If there are lots of free ones that you like, don't choose just go for them in bulk! ;)
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I've gone for a little classic selection...
I am giving lesser known Anne Bronte a go - as I have read all the other Bronte novels. And A George Eliot (Silas Marner) as I have not read many of those. I found one Jane Austen I have not read and a DH Lawrence - so that should keep me quite for a couple of weeks.
Milly
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Hi Milly, I haven 't read any Wilkie Collins books, can you recommend good one to start me off.
Jool
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Millie, I' ve just noticed your reply to Hampshire Lass, I will give those a try.
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Anyway, I've had a quick look at the Wilie Collins books and they look very interesting.
Two most famous are "Woman in White" and "Moonstone" both of which are excellent... I read those ages ago - and since I got my kindle I just worked my way through all the free books listed. Most were really good - other than the ones that were just vehicles for short stories which I didn't like so much. I didn't realise he was a good friend of Charles Dickens and they even did some work together....but Wilkie Collins is A LOT easier to read!
Milly
Woman in White was the one which caught my eye but there are so many to choose from.....perhaps you may like these too groom? :)
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I would definitely start with Woman in White and then Moonstone.
Milly
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Thanks Milly :)
Downloaded and in rather a long queue of books to be read ;)
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Thanks Milly :)
Downloaded and in rather a long queue of books to be read ;)
Me too, so many books waiting to be read but not enough time. Probably because I spend too much time hanging around on Rootschat ;D
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I tend to download samples, so I have lots waiting to be read before I decide whether or not to buy them.
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Two authors I really like and will probably appeal to fellow family historians are Margaret Forster and Rachel Hore. Of particular interest are The Memory Box by Margaret Forster and A Gathering Storm by Rachel Hore. :) Unfortunately they're not free. ::)
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Update ;D ;D ;D
Amazon sent me an email to say I had 400 free coins to spend on apps.....it was a "perk" with this Kindle.
I've just been to the website and downloaded a couple of free ones, as well as purchasing one which was on my "wish list". Whilst I was looking at my list I went to the Ancestry app and was going to delete it.....then I noticed that the red cross which was alongside it, for my kindlefire, had gone. :)
So, I downloaded it again and hey presto :)
Last week I spoke to someone,via the help button, and he said it wasn't compatible. I emailed them and they were going to look into it. They didn't let me know things had changed but something certainly has.
I'm very happy now and will delete my critical review as it may mislead someone who is interested in the app.
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That's brilliant news HL. You are up and running now.
Maggie :)
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That is really good news - perhaps it was your critical review that helped though. Rather than deleting it, why don't you write another with the update to show that they do listen and take notice? I'm not surprised that they sorted it, as it would have been rather silly if it worked on everything apart from that Kindle model.
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Ooops......too late groom :) I knew I should have waited for your advice :)
I've deleted the review, as it was a bit long winded. I've written another one which is briefer and acknowledges the fact that it wasn't compatible a week ago. Hopefully it will be a precise and useful review to anyone interested.
Oooh, I'm so happy. :)
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Where is your review HL? Is it on Amazon? I reckoned to look the other day but couldn't see it.
Maggie
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What an interesting thread and thanks for all the info. Am thinking of buying myself a Kindle Fire for Christmas; either that or a tablet. Decisions, decisons ......
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You are spoilt for choice with tablets these days GS and on HL's thread here we have discussed them all. I would hate to be without mine now, although it isn't a 'Fire.
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What an interesting thread and thanks for all the info. Am thinking of buying myself a Kindle Fire for Christmas; either that or a tablet. Decisions, decisons ......
I did think long and hard about which to get GS and of course I will never know how my alternatives would compare to my Kindle but I do know I'm thrilled with it.
I've learnt such a lot from this thread,so thank you all for your help.........and good luck GS, go on treat yourself, I did. :)
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Great news about the Ancestry app HL , got there at last :D. I received the 400 coins too, I used 69 on the Birds of Britain app, great if you are interested in our feathered friends. It has full descriptions, beautiful photos and a great little clicky button which plays the call of each bird - I recognised the call of our local tawny owl straight away.
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I'm finding there's just so much to learn when you get your first tablet. I think I need to go to a beginners' class in tablets and apps. For all that, I am enjoying mine with browsing the Internet, RootsChat, Skype and the couple of games I've managed to download apps for. It's specially wonderful to be able to use it wherever there's free wifi.
And I'm appreciating what I'm picking up from this thread.
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That bird app sounds very interesting Jool. The only thing is that it says it takes up to 30 minutes to download, so I haven't done it yet. The other thing is the size of it.....can't remember what it was now but it sounded big. I can never understand mega, giga etc ::)
I was looking at the cookery apps too....they look interesting.
I can't believe the wealth of information that is available these days.
deeilluka, I know just what you mean. I'm at an advantage with my Kindle Fire though, as there is a "help button" which is supposed (and is) to be answered in 15 seconds. :)
I think for the first 2 days of my ownership they were probably thinking "Oh no, not her again" :)
Haven't used it since though, so must be getting the hang of things.
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That bird app sounds very interesting Jool. The only thing is that it says it takes up to 30 minutes to download, so I haven't done it yet. The other thing is the size of it.....can't remember what it was now but it sounded big. I can never understand mega, giga etc ::)
Hi HL, yes I saw it was a 30 minute download, so I made sure there was plenty of charge in the Kindle and prepared myself for a wait - it took about 5 minutes or so. :D
I still have more coins to use so I will have a look at the cookery apps too.
Can anyone recommend any other good apps? Jeez I'm starting to sound like a teenager ;D
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I have a great bird app but I've just checked and it doesn't seem to be available for android.
I also have several weather apps as I have the British fascination for weather. There are some beautiful ones and a lot are free. The BBC does a good free one - it's not full of pretty pictures but it tells you all you want to know in a user friendly way.
Maggie
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That is one problem I've discovered with my android tablet, it doesn't seem to support adobe flash player and several apps need that.
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My tablet opens up with the weather for the nearest little township on the home screen. It came like that automatically. But I must see if the Aussie BOM has an app as that sounds as though it would be a handy one to have, Maggie.
What a great help that is, HL.......pity mine doesn't have that asset.
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That is one problem I've discovered with my android tablet, it doesn't seem to support adobe flash player and several apps need that.
Neither does my iPad mini Jan, although there is a free app that purports to allow you use flash. I have tried it and it works but it's clunky and laborious so I've binned it.
Dee some of those weather apps are beautiful with stunning graphics.
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I'm just discovery podcasts - there are loads covering so many subjects. I've found a history one and it's wonderful. Easily digested information delivered in 20 minute chunks that you can listen to whilst having a bath or whatever and all available for free.
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Our ABC has lots of excellent podcasts but I haven't tried them on the tablet yet. Thanks for the suggestion, Maggie.
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Great news re the Ancestry app HL! :D
I've found some really useful apps since I got my tablet. I particularly like the Met Office one for weather forecasts and the BBC one for news. You can also get iPlayer, ITV player, 4od and TV Catchup for telly fans. Practical ones are spirit level, compass, calendar etc. For transport you can get ones for the train companies and lot for London transport.
One I sometimes wish I'd never downloaded is the card game Solitaire - I've become addicted to it! Very useful on plane trips though, the jigsaw ones are great too.
I'm dependent on my tablet at the moment because of a problem with my laptop. I love my tablet but for some things I definitely prefer the laptop.
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Agree with you about laptop and tablet strengths, Roobarb.
I've downloaded a word game to my tablet that wastes far too much time for me. But then I stop and say to omyself that it's good brain exercise. Solitaire is my addiction game on my laptop.....I have 300 different kinds on there, but have only learnt to play about 10. I reckon they're good brain exercise too.
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I've downloaded a word game to my tablet that wastes far too much time for me.
Is that the one that is similar to scrabble - I have that on my tablet?
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Flightradar24 Pro is fascinating if you want to track planes. I assume they do an android version.
Talking about mind games, I have solitaire, suduko and for some strange reason I downloaded a Latin hangman game last week. They tried to teach me Latin at school and I've always regretted losing my ability to understand it so when I saw this I thought it might be interesting. It is. ::)
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The word game I have is called
Lexithon, Lexathon, Jan. (free).
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300 solitary games deeiluka ::) ::) ::)
I have 2 ....... so far.... and they are already very addictive. I also have a number game which, to me, is even more addictive. It's called number addict.
I've got the BBC weather app which is accurate in the main but boring. I'll have to look at some of the other weather apps.
I also have Google street view which I always find interesting. Along with BBC iPlayer which has already been very enjoyable.
I looked at the recipe apps but they seemed largely American and didn't appeal. Has any one found a good English one?
I did wonder about Sudoku but I am seriously addicted to that and since it's easy to switch this on when I wake in the morning it could get very hard to get out of bed. :)
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I know exactly what you mean, HL....except my problem tends to be at the other end of the day.....switching off to go to sleep. ::)
I've avoided Sudoku as well, as I have a number of Sudoku puzzle books....one goes with me wherever I go. Now I have the tablet though, there'll no longer be a need to buy the books. :D
I had a warning this morning about a big update that would mean not using my tablet till it completed, so I put it off until later. It also warned that it could change things on the tablet. I don't need this when I'm still finding my way around it as it is. :-\
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I've had a big update recently on my tablet also Dee (different make of tablet). It was a bit nerve wracking to watch as it went through the process, which took around 90 mins, as it shut down the tablet and then uploaded everything from back up including the update. The appearance of the home screen was then very different but I'd researched all about the update on the Internet beforehand so I knew what to expect. I was very relieved though that everything still worked ok, in fact better than before.
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Thanks for that advice, Maggie. :)
I'll follow your advice and see what I can find on the update by googling.
I might also wait till my family is back here before I go through the process, I think. I'd hate to be stranded without my tablet over the next few days.
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My tablet had a significant update recently, I just left it to get on with it and everything was fine. A few different pictures were on the icons but no problems.
Thanks for the heads up on Lexacon, have downloaded it and am now prepared to become addicted. ;)
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I waited over a month before I did the upgrade because I wanted to be clear about any glitches that might have been connected to it. There weren't any problems, although some had been reported by others. This is Apple.
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Thanks Roobarb and Maggie.
Hearing this stuff gives me more confidence. :D
My tablet had a significant update recently, I just left it to get on with it and everything was fine. A few different pictures were on the icons but no problems.
Thanks for the heads up on Lexacon, have downloaded it and am now prepared to become addicted. ;)
;D ;D ;D
One good thing is that if you are part way through a game, you can resume it even after you've switched off your tablet.
Added......the only downside I've found is that words that are in my dictionary aren't neccessarily accepted....and some words that I've never found in an English/Australian dictionary are.
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The National Archives (UK) do great podcasts on the talks they give plus some made for eduction, great for those that don't live close enough to visit.
http://media.nationalarchives.gov.uk/
Some take a while to download, and they should come with a warning, I have more podcasts than music on my ipad lol!
Jenny
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HL, I find recipe apps are not that good and prefer to use the internet. Delia has good reliable recipes, as do the BBC and the FoodChannel. But one I found by chance is the Betty Crocker com website! Not only do they do great mixes but they have a comprehensive recipe section (not using their mixes).... Yummy cookies ;D
Just put your search words in search box at the top to get all the recipes...not all come up from the front page navigation. http://www.rootschat.com/links/0x3n/
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Hi jc26red, I think I've come to the same conclusion as there are some very good ones out there. I like the BBC food website and especially like any Mary Berry recipes. The Betty Crocker site looked really great but when looking at some recipe details some of the ingredients were new to me. I know that sounds a strange thing to say but different countries have different ingredients available and you need to know what something is if you need a substitute. She also used cup measures, which wouldn't really be a problem though. I found several very tasty recipes there and will definitely take a closer look :) (are you not in England jc26red?)
Deeiluka I think you're very brave a do hope your update goes well. Yes going to bed is a problem too.........there's just so many more interesting things than sleeping ;D
I've never given podcasts a thought. I don't suppose I can get them on my Kindle but will look into them on my laptop. Especially any from The National Archives.
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As Jenny says, HL, podcasts are great. I have some on my laptop. The first one I ever downloaded was an interview with the pilot of the Quantas Aircraft that had the engine explode when it flew out of Singapore. My son was on it, and he tried not to tell me things about that flight, and the situation they were in. I found out anyway. ;D
As for the update.....I have to learn how to back up before I can do it. I've just been reading the manual, but it doesn't tell me much.
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There should be plenty of info on line as to how to do a backup Dee. With my tablet it automatically backs up when I attach it to my PC via the USB cable.
Jenny thanks for that link to the National Archives podcasts, I have saved that. At the moment I'm listening to podcasts of The History of England, starting from when the Roman Legions left the country. The talks are in a very digestable form and so far I've reached The Viking Invasions.
The trouble with tablets is that they do interfere with sleep - I lay in bed last night playing scrabble for far longer than was sensible last night.
Maggie
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That sounds terrifying Dee :o
I know this sounds silly but where do you find podcasts? For instance the interview with a pilot sounds an obscure one to find, although probably not in the circumstances.
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HL, our ABC and your BBC would have lots of podcasts, and as JC wrote, so does your National Archives.
I must check out our National Archives.
Dee :)
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Jenny, have a look here for starters:-
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/pov
Looks like you might need an app to listen to one on kindle fire:-
http://www.amazon.com/s?rh=n%3A2577638011%2Cp_n_feature_two_browse-bin%3A6713835011
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Thanks Dee and Maggie I'll look into that........and the necessary app too
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Some great suggestions coming up on this thread, I am interested in the National Archives podcasts, I will have a look at that. I find the free Accuweather app to be very accurate. I downloaded a torch app which proved useful during power cuts on holiday, especially to find your way in the windowless bathroom ;D.
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The torch app seems a great idea. Will investigate.
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I have now found that googling for questions regarding my Samsung tablet brings up websites of instructions regarding various questions with instructions for dummies!
Perfect for me. ;D
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If anyone is having problems with their Kindle Fire it is due to a Silk browser update. Amazon are apparently aware and hope to fix it in the next few days.
Problems I have had are:
When scrolling the page splits into 2, top half freezes, other half passes over it.
Tutorial overlays popping up
Text sometimes bouncing slightly
Cursor jumping to a previous part of the sentence, adding a space in the middle of a word, and inserting a nearby letter as well as the one I have pressed, and sometimes it moves me to another tab I have open.
It seems to only be affecting the Fire version.
Here's a link to an Amazon Customer Discussion on the subject
http://www.amazon.co.uk/forum/kindle/ref=cm_cd_pg_pg1?_encoding=UTF8&cdForum=Fx3IRFCNF3E5K2W&cdPage=1&cdThread=Tx1MIA8XIPL0OWQ
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Many thanks for the torch tip. I downloaded the torch plus clock on my nexus 7.
Really useful app.
I did try to find one with a medium beam as I imagined the battery being used up quickly. Will download candle light as well I think so I have a choice in an emergency
Sandra
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I've been brave and downloaded my first update on my Samsung Galaxy 10....without any problems, thankfully.