Technology is constantly evolving, bringing forth a continuous stream of innovation. Firstly, I vividly remember the days of corded and cordless phones. Because of evolving technology, I also remember pagers, flip phones, and bulky computers and televisions from my teenage years. Today, technology plays a crucial role in nearly every aspect of my life. From communication and collaboration to productivity, information access, creativity, education, and convenience, I use technology.
In this post, I’ll share the 10 technology tools I can’t live without. These tools are integral to my daily routine, and my life would be significantly different and less productive without them.
10 Technology Tools I Can’t Live Without
10. GPS Systems
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’m terrible with directions. However, GPS Systems have enabled me to be an independent traveler. The first GPS I ever used was Google Maps. Before Google Maps were available on smartphones, I would search for direction, print them out, and take them with me. Then came the Garmin GPS, which I received as a Christmas gift from my stepdad—was a lifesaver. When smartphones emerged, I quickly adopted their built-in map features to guide me. Today, most newer cars include GPS navigation systems as a standard feature.
Just like others would say, I’m hopeless with geographical directions. I get lost easily, and compass directions confuse me. GPS systems have made traveling easier, more efficient, and more productive.
9. Laptop
I’ve always owned a laptop. My current laptop is an Asus ROG Zephyrus G. It’s a gaming laptop. I use it for gaming, streaming, and designing. It is essential for checking email and attending online classes. While my laptop provides me those options, it is portable, durable, and has served me well for over six years. I bought it at Best Buy as an open-box product for about $1,600. It is no longer available at Best Buy, but you can find similar models starting at $1400.00. You can find the model I have on Amazon for $859 to $1,200.
8. Smartphone
Smartphones are essentially tiny computers that fit in your hand. They come with pre-installed apps, most of which are useful for productivity, communication, and more. My current phone is the Apple iPhone 15 Pro. When I got it, it was the newest model. It boasted a 48MP camera, extended battery life, and new features like Roadside Assistance, Emergency SOS, and Crash Detection. The Health App is also crucial for keeping track of my well-being.
I got my first iPhone in 2012. I have found it to be more secure, durable, and longer-lasting than Android phones. The only Android phone I would consider is the Samsung Galaxy S-series.
While smartphone technology is great for staying connected to the world, they also hinder people’s abilities to form in-person connections. Be wary and present when you are with other people by staying off of your smartphone.
7. Internet
The internet is essential in many ways. It provides vital information, keeps me connected with friends and family, and enables professional growth. Both my laptop and iPhone are connected to the internet.
I attend college online at American InterContinental University, which requires internet access. Live streaming on platforms like Twitch, Kick, and YouTube depends on the internet. Staying connected with family and friends worldwide also depends on the internet. Uploading and saving documents to the cloud relies on the internet. It allows me to be efficient and productive in college. The internet enables me to build my brand. It keeps me connected and provides access to the tools needed for success in both my personal and professional life.
My internet provider is Spectrum. I have their 1Gbps plan for $79.99 per month. The fast speeds are amazing and essential for live streaming.
6. Search Engines
Search engines like Bing, Google, and Yahoo! are indispensable for research. When writing an essay or paper for college, I use Google Scholar to find reputable sources for information and references. Whenever I’m confused, facing a problem, or have a question, I turn to Google for answers. It’s my go-to search engine, and I use it religiously.
They allow you to enter keywords. You can enter phrases or questions into the search bar. Hit the search button and get results. Typically, the most relevant results are displayed first. They are an endless, ever-growing source of information.
5. Adobe Creative Cloud
As a freelance graphic and web designer, I use Adobe Creative Cloud daily. Before its introduction, people had to buy individual software, which was expensive. With Adobe Creative Cloud, you can pay a monthly fee to access one application. Alternatively, you can access all the applications needed for digital creation. Students get discounted prices by using a college or university email addresses. The cost varies by plan, but it’s worth it compared to purchasing the software outright.
I use Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, Illustrator, and other applications from Creative Cloud for my graphic and web design projects.
4. Cloud Storage/Hosting
Cloud storage is a lifesaver. I’ve linked Microsoft Office 365 applications to my Google Drive. Anytime I save a document on my computer, it automatically uploads to cloud storage on Google Drive. If something happens to my computer, those files are accessible on any device connected to the internet. This is especially crucial for me as a college student and freelance graphic and web designer.
iPhones also offer iCloud storage to back up documents, photos, and videos. I take a lot of pictures and shoot videos regularly. Since my phone backs up those files to iCloud, I can access them on any device. It’s not just limited to my phone. If I ever switch phones, I won’t lose any files.
3. Trello
Trello is a project management app/web application. I use it to organize projects, plan my education and career, and manage content creation. It allows for collaboration and offers many other features.
You can set up various cards like “To Do List,” “In Progress,” and “Done.” You then add tasks to each card based on their progress. Trello allows for collaboration, by allowing you to assign tasks and due dates to specific people. Trello is a great tool for improving efficiency and productivity, and it even facilitates communication through task comments.
2. Amazon Firestick
My family no longer pays for cable or satellite TV. We use an Amazon Firestick for all our television streaming needs. All our favorite apps and networks are accessible through the Firestick. Even with subscription services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, it’s still cheaper than traditional cable or satellite TV. There are also many free networks like Tubi, where you can watch shows and movies for free. If you’re tech-savvy, you can install other applications to watch anything for free. But I don’t recommend it because it’s illegal.
1. Social Media
Social media keeps me connected with people and information. I use it to stay in touch with friends and family. Additionally, I follow companies I’m interested in working for while staying up to date on latest technology trends. Also, I promote my personal and professional brand.
Here are the social media platforms I use and how I use them:
There are two accounts that I use often. The first is personal, for high school classmates, friends, colleagues, and family members. I use it to update these groups on my life. The second is my streamer page, where I post updates on my streams, life, projects, and more. This is the account I share with my followers and people I don’t know personally.
Follow me on Facebook: iZimmbiPlays
I have two accounts. The first is my main account. There, I post pictures of myself and my family. I also post artwork, live stream ads, motivational posts, and more. The second is my cat’s account. Yes, my cat has an Instagram account. I share cute pictures and videos of her there.
Follow me on Instagram: iZimmbiPlays / and my cat, Winter: blue_eyedwinter
TikTok
The TikTok account is mainly for entertainment. I post fun videos, including an introduction video about myself. Occasionally, I use it to promote my live streams on Twitch and my website. I’ve set up my streaming application to dual-stream to Twitch and TikTok, though I haven’t tried it yet.
Follow me on TikTok: iZimmbiPlays
X (Formerly Twitter)
My X account is used to connect with people interested in streaming, graphic and web design. It is also useful for connecting with people interested in gaming, cybersecurity, blogging, and more. I promote other people, brands, and companies, as well as my live streams, website, blog articles, and more.
Follow me on X: theamzimm
Threads
Linked to my main Instagram account, I use Threads to meet people with similar interests. It is a great place to promote myself and others. Threads is like “Twitter for Instagram,” where you can post photos, links, updates, and more.
Follow me on Threads: iZimmbiPlays
Channel 3
Channel 3 is a gaming social media platform where gamers discuss their favorite games, progress, and more. It features a cool XP system, making it a very engaging experience.
Follow me on Channel 3: iZimmbiPlays
I use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the cybersecurity field and follow companies I’m interested in working with. If you’re in technology or cybersecurity, I’d love to connect with you.
Follow me on LinkedIn: Amanda Zimmer
Twitch
My Twitch account is for live streaming gameplay, Q&A chats with followers, and live-streaming design projects. I’m working on establishing a consistent stream schedule.
Follow me on Twitch: iZimmbiPlays
Conclusion
Today, technology has evolved to include tools I can’t live without. While technically, life without these tools is possible, they have made my personal and professional life better. In fact, I’ve discussed many of those tools that are essential to my daily life. They help me stay connected, be productive and efficient, manage projects, and more. If you use any of the tools mentioned above, I’d love to hear about your experiences with them. Please share your thoughts in the comments.