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Alan Truly

Alan Truly

Computing Writer

Alan is a Computing Writer living in Nova Scotia, Canada. A tech-enthusiast since his youth, Alan stays current on what is new and what is next. With over 30 years experience in computer, video and photo equipment, you can expect useful tips and insights in his writing. Alan has a degree in programming, many years focused on design, editing, and animation. A period of managing logistics and e-commerce operations for a mobile accessories company rounds out a diverse background. Alan is a true jack of all digital trades in this ever-changing computer-enriched world. To stay flexible in mind and in body, he practices yoga, light cardio, and eats a whole food diet, based on minimally processed plants.

A person wearing the Ray-Ban Meta smartglasses, taking a photo.

Zuckerberg says holographic AR glasses are coming

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared his thoughts and Meta's plans for future smart glasses, AR holographic, and neural interfaces.
Stellar Data Recovery Premium appears on a PC monitor.

Stellar Data Recovery Premium review: Great support isn’t always enough

I reviewed Stellar Data Recovery's three subscription plans and a free version to find out which is best and offers the most value.
Recuva Professional data recovery app shown on a PC monitor

Recuva Professional review: a $25 data recovery app that works

I review one of the cheapest data recovery apps available to find out if it works well and is easy to use on SSDs, HDDs, and more.
The Ease US Data Recovery Wizard Pro app appears on a PC monitor.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Pro review: a low-cost way to restore files

I review EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Pro, software that helps restore lost files for every type of storage to test its ease-of-use and value.
Xreal Air 2 Ultra with Beam Pro lets you use your hands to interact with virtual content

Xreal’s new device enables Vision Pro features on smart glasses

Xreal's new Beam Pro works with Air and Air 2 smart glasses, replacing your phone while adding spatial video recording and more.
A man adjusts an Apple Vision Pro headset over his eyes.

The Vision Pro just got one of its most anticipated features

In visionOS 2, Apple enabled WebXR in the Vision Pro's Safari browser, expanding the number of immersive games you can play.
A person uses a Logitech MX Ink to scuplt in 3D with a Meta Quest 3

The Meta Quest just got an awesome new VR accessory

Learn more about Logitech's new stylus that works in VR and lets you draw, paint, and sculpt in 3D with your Meta Quest 3 headset.
A person looks at a large Mac Virtual Display while wearing an Apple Vision Pro.

All the new ways the Vision Pro just got so much better

At WWDC 2024, Apple previewed visionOS 2, a significant upgrade for the Vision Pro that solves some common complaints and adds new features.
The Bitwarden extension is open in a browser showing an article about password managers.

Bitwarden review: This open-source password manager unlocks choice

I researched Bitwarden's subscription plans and tested the family plan to check how much value it adds to its very competitive free option.
An iPhone with the Dashlane app appears in front of a Window screen with the Dashlane extension.

I reviewed Dashlane, and it’s much more than just a password manager

I tested Dashlane, a full-featured password manager with lots of extras and cross-platform support for passwordless logins.
A MacBook Air runs Norton 360 Deluxe antivirus software.

Norton for Mac review: antivirus protection and much more

I tested Norton antivirus software on my MacBook, checking pricing and features to find out how well this popular solution works with macOS.
I tested 1Password on my Windows PC and iPhone.

I reviewed 1Password, and it’s one of the best password managers you can use

I reviewed top-rated password manager 1Password to check its value and ease-of-use for cross-platform syncing and sharing.
First Encounter is the perfect introduction to mixed reality on Quest 3.

A free update just made the Quest 3 way better

Meta significantly upgraded the Quest 3's mixed reality quality in the latest v66 update.
Oculus Rift CV1

The creator of the Oculus Rift is working on a mysterious new VR headset

Oculus founder Palmer Luckey is working on a new VR headset, and the VR industry is excited about what this innovator will create.
A PC monitor shows a side-by-side comparison of Malwarebytes and Norton pricing.

I tried both Malwarebytes and Norton, and one came out on top

Malwarebytes and Norton are two top names in antivirus software, but which one protects best and which has the most value?
Two people wear Magic Leap 2 AR headsets.

Maybe Google hasn’t given up on Google Glass after all

Google just partnered with a leading AR glasses manufacturer, signaling that Google Glass could return with the most advanced technology available.
The Malwarebytes app is open on a MacBook Air.

Malwarebytes for Mac review: an antivirus and privacy upgrade

Malwarebytes for Mac increases your antivirus protection, so I tested its quality, ease of use, and features to find out if it's worth the cost.
A MacBook Air is shown with the Bitdefender for Mac dashboard open.

Bitdefender for Mac review: dependable security for macOS

Bitdefender's well-rated antivirus software is available for the Mac, but is it as good as the Windows version and does it integrate wll with macOS?
A person compares Bitdefender and Norton antivirus software pricing on a Windows PC.

After testing Bitdefender and Norton, here’s the antivirus software I’d recommend

In a head-to-head battle, we compare Bitdefender and Norton to find out which of the top Windows antivirus and security solutions is best for you.
Canon's imageClass MF654cdw is a large, sturdy printer.

Canon imageClass MF654cdw review: a low-cost, high-quality color laser printer

Canon's imageClass MF654cdw is a high-quality color laser printer at a budget price, so we checked what tradeoffs were made to make it so affordable.
Norton antivirus scan is in progress on the screen of a Windows PC.

Norton 360 for Windows review: excellent antivirus packed with extras

We review Norton's antivirus and cybersecurity plans, checking malware protection, support, pricing, and more to help you keep your data secure.
A Windows app extends into 3D space via a Meta Quest 3 VR headset.

The Meta Quest 3 will get an exciting new type of app

Microsoft is working on a spatial computing solution called Volumetric apps that lets a Meta Quest 3 connect to Windows for 3D interactions.
A render simulates what you see when wearing Viture One Pro smart glasses.

These are officially the brightest smart glasses ever made

The new Viture Pro improve on the original model in every way, most notably with its super-bright screens.
The Color LaserJet Pro 4301fdw has good photo print quality on glossy paper.

Best color laser printers for 2024: tested and reviewed

Color laser printers are a smart choice for home offices and small businesses, but which should you buy? Here are our top picks for every budget.
Bitdefender and Malwarebytes websites are open side-by-side on a computer monitor.

I tested two of the best antivirus services. Here’s which one you should get

Which Windows antivirus and security suite protects your data best, and which offers the best value for the money?
A photo of Bitdefender running on a PC.

Bitdefender for Windows review: premium protection for all your devices

We tested Bitdefender's antivirus and advanced security plans for Windows to find out how good it is and whether it's worth the cost.
A printer surrounded by several printed photos.

How to check ink levels on an HP, Canon, Epson, or Brother printer

Staying on top of your printer’s ink levels is a great way to prevent a nasty shock when it comes time to print that 300-page document. Here’s a guide to help.
Google's Android logo wears an XR headset.

Google has a chance to take on the Quest and Vision Pro in a big way

Google could unveil Android XR as an alternative to Apple's Vision Pro and Meta's Quest operating systems at Google I/O 2024.
Malwarebytes user interface appears on a Microsoft Surface Book.

Malwarebytes for Windows review: a quick and easy antivirus upgrade

We tested Malwarebytes antivirus software for Windows to find out if its quality, ease-of-use, and support provide enough value for the price.
HP's OfficeJet Pro 8135e has a mix of rounded and sharp corners, dark and light shades.

HP OfficeJet Pro 8135e review: home office printing on a budget

HP's OfficeJet Pro 8135e is an all-in-one with fax and walk-up printing capabilities at an affordable price. But how durable is it and how much will ink cost?
Alan Truly plays a game with the HTC Vive XR Elite.

A year later, the HTC Vive XR Elite is still a uniquely versatile VR headset

I tested the HTC Vive XR Elite, a comfortable VR headset with a unique feature that makes it one of the best for PC VR and standalone experiences.
Printing is fast and economical with the HP Smart Tank 7602.

I use these simple printer tips to save money on ink and toner

Learn how to greatly reduce printing costs and make your ink and toner cartridges last much longer with these expert tricks and tips.
Apple Vision Pro

5 headsets you should buy instead of the Vision Pro

The Vision Pro no longer has the best VR headset available. Check out these challengers that beat Apple's best in display quality, comfort, and price.
The Brother MFC-J1205W's off-white color looks nice in a home office.

No, you shouldn’t just buy whatever Brother printer is cheapest

Brother printers are great but don't rush a printer decision. A bad purchase causes frustration and waste, while costing you time and money.