Apple prices, mobile pay apps and More: Tech Q&A

Grant Thompson and his mother, Michele, look at an iPhone in the family's kitchen in Tucson, Ariz., on Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Brian Skoloff)

The Cost of Apple

Q. I would like to switch from Windows to Apple. Why are Apple products so much more money?

A: Windows and Apple are two very distinct products and neither is “better” than the other. Windows excels in certain areas, such as customization and third-party access, while Apple excels in other areas, such as graphics and consistency. So why should Apple products cost so much more? You can buy a basic Dell Inspiron laptop for under $300, while the cheapest MacBook costs about $1,000. Other price comparisons – for tablets, phones and desktops – are almost comically divergent. Apple has always appealed to a higher income bracket but when you consider some of its advantages, the cost may feel justified. Tap or click here to learn why Apple products are so expensive.

Facebook and Phone Numbers

Q: Facebook needs my phone number for two-factor authentication. How can I make sure that they don’t sell it too?

A: Very perceptive question. I talk a lot about two-factor identification because it helps keep your passwords – and, by extension, your accounts – safe from cyber-criminals hoping to break in. The most common form of two-factor ID requires a cell phone number. But Facebook has become a dubious form of social media, and they have received a lot of criticism for manipulating members and using their data for little-understood purposes. So what do you do when Facebook innocently asks for your number, claiming to want this information solely for your protection? In short, you are wise to suspect them. Tap or click here to restrict Facebook’s access to your phone number.

Find my show podcasts

Q: I would like to get your radio show podcasts. How can I do that? I did not see these on iTunes.

A: I’m flattered you ask, and the short answer is that you can find my podcast son either iTunes or Google Play along with other popular podcasts. Komando On Demand provides stories, advice and up-to-the-minute news on consumer technology. Better yet, it’s all free. But if you’re looking for the podcasts of my national three hour radio show, those are reserved for Kim’s Clubmembers which provides exclusive content, priority call-in, live chat sessions and access to the brand-new Komando Technology Academy. It’s about $4/month and discounts are available for seniors, military and service personnel. Tap or click here to join Kim’s Club.

TV Mounting Tips

Q: Is it bad to mount your TV over the fireplace? Does this damage it?

A: There used to be one option for positioning your TV: right in the middle of the den. You can put a flat screen almost anywhere, as long as there’s wall space and a decent stud. You bring up an excellent point, though; just because you can put a TV almost anywhere doesn’t mean that your precious new unit is safe. Extreme heat can damage your television. Some people like to mount their televisions on outdoor porches, thinking that an awning will protect it from a bad rainstorm. There are also children to think about; a poorly thrown football can knock some flat screens right off their brackets. So before you start drilling, consider the feng shui of your particular set. Tap or click here to find out where to mount your TV and where not to.

Venmo Safety

Q: My kids want me to use Venmo to send them money. Is this safe?

A: Many traditionalists were once nervous about the concept of Paypal. The company isn’t exactly a bank, and it isn’t a traditional wire service. Such automatic payments, transmitted through the internet, seemed like magic. In only a few short years, customers have discovered Apple Pay icons at their local Starbucks, and all they have to do is tap the device with their phones to pay for a latte. The ease of digital payment grows exponentially each year, and Venmo is the latest in this evolution. If you haven’t delved into that world, though, mobile pay apps can seem a little too streamlined – or even dangerous. The truth is, you should always be vigilant about your funds, no matter how you maintain them. Certain money apps can be very effective, if you use them wisely. Tap or click here to learn what mobile pay apps are and whether they’re safe.

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call her national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen or watch to the Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim's free podcasts.

Learn about all the latest technology on the Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.