It's Those Free Apps Draining Your Battery

Maybe those free apps we've been downloading for years aren't really a bargain after all.

It turns out, these "free apps" have built-in advertisements so developers can make money without having to charge for the initial app download.  And these free ads can account for 75% of your device's energy consumption.

The research, produced by at team at Purdue University looked at popular apps such as Angry Birds and Facebook.

Due to restrictions built into Apple's mobile operating system, the team was unable to run tests on the iPhone, but other platforms were tested.

In the case of Angry Birds, research suggested that only 20% of the total energy consumption was used to actually play the game itself.

Of the rest, 45% is used finding out your location with which it can serve targeted advertising.

How can smartphone and tablet users protect themselves from this practice?

It is  unavoidable if users want to enjoy free, ad-supported games and applications, but if you don't play these games, you shouldn't have to worry.

However, one expert says developers should give more consideration to energy consumption when building in new features.  That, and improving battery life in general on these devices.

Donald Driver Dances Tonight

Tonight we find out if Donald Driver can dance as "Dancing With the Stars" begins another season. 

Keeping close watch will no doubt be Green Bay Packer fans as one of the most popular Packers of all-time hits the dance floor in search of the morror ball trophy.

I tend to think he's going to be pretty good.  Can he duplicate what Hines Ward did a year ago?  It will be tough, but Ward benefited from a stron Steeler fan base voting for him each week. 

Green Bay fans will be there in droves as well.  Good luck to "Double D"!

Kindle Free Pick of the Week: Achieve Anything in Just One Year

The might be last self help book you will ever need!

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Comprehensive and inspiring, Achieve Anything In Just One Year will teach you how to:

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Learn to equip yourself with the tools to become your own personal life coach, without relying on outside motivation. You have the power to do anything you desire. The possibilities are within you. It's time to nurture that spark and let it catch fire.

The idea is to take daily action that creates a ripple effect in your life.

By transforming your life with small steps, you can stay motivated, focused and balanced. Best of all, you will feel happier about pursuing your personal success.

The key to a happier life is contained in the dreams you already have. Your aspirations can create new opportunities, a fresh direction for your life's path. It is possible to unlock them. It's never too late. Start today by buying this book.

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The Amazing Race Preview for "Uglier Than a Mud Rail Fence"

Building the perfect gingerbread house and the teams scour King Ludwig's quarters in the same castle that served as the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty's castle on THE AMAZING RACE, Sunday, March 18 on CBS!

College Basketball Play of the Day for 3/18/12

Michigan State

Michigan State takes on St. Louis today with the Spartans laying 6.5 points.

St. Louis did a great job on Friday in beating Memphis, but with less time to to prepare in this one, I love Michigan State.

Michigan State has more talent and is used to being in this spot.

They also are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 games overall.

Michigan State advances going away to another Sweet 16.