Walt Mossberg

Recent Columns by Walt Mossberg

Mossberg’s Mailbox

Using the Web-based Microsoft Office on the iPad

Q:

Can the new Web-based version of Microsoft Office be used on an iPad?

A:

In my tests, I was able to view documents, but not edit them, on both an iPad and an iPhone.

Q:

I am considering buying Sprint’s HTC Evo 4G smart phone. My concerns about the Evo are twofold. I don’t know anything about using the Android operating system and wonder how intuitive it is to learn, and I need to know if a user of the phone can look up info while on a cellular voice call.

A:

In my experience, Android isn’t difficult to master, though this will of course vary by person. I suggest you seek out a friend with an Android-based phone to see how easy you find it, or check it out in a store with a knowledgeable sales person. As for performing data tasks while on a phone call, it depends what network you’re on. On Sprint’s (S) 3G network, which is widely deployed, you cannot access Internet data while on a call, though you could look up data, like a contact, stored on the phone itself. With Sprint’s 4G network, which the EVO can access in some 30 U.S. cities, you can access Internet data while remaining on a call.

Q:

If I’m already using an online backup service, and want to start using InformationSafe to collect and store personal data, do I have to purchase the InformationSafe backup service?

A:

InformationSafe’s backup service is optional. If your files were lost or corrupted, I presume you could recover them from the service you are currently using. However, be sure these files are in the set of files your current service backs up.

You can find Mossberg’s Mailbox, and my other columns, online for free at the All Things Digital web site, http://walt.allthingsd.com.

Write to Walter S. Mossberg at walt.mossberg@wsj.com

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