Friday, June 13, 2025

Turn Down the Noise: How to Make Meetings More Manageable and Fun

Turn Down the Noise: How to Make Meetings More Manageable and Fun

Need a fun, no-fuss way to keep your team on track during meetings? BouncyBalls.org turns real-time sound into a playful visual you can use to foster better focus, reduce interruptions, and even run more effective brainstorms—no downloads required.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor
June 13, 2025


Bouncy Balls
Have you ever been in a hybrid meeting where someone’s dog barks, another participant types like they’re playing drums, and a third’s mic is somehow stuck on? 

Multiply that by a group of eight, and you've got a chorus of distractions.

Here's a Cool Tip: Bouncy Balls.

Now imagine all of that ambient noise visualized—bouncing, floating, even blinking. 

That’s the simple genius behind BouncyBalls.org, a free browser-based tool originally designed for classrooms but unexpectedly powerful for team leaders, remote workers, and workshop facilitators.

This isn’t just about fun—it’s about visualizing your sound environment to regain control of it.

Bouncy Balls

What You'll Gain

Use BouncyBalls.org to:
  • Visualize ambient sound in meetings, events, or shared workspaces
  • Create a non-verbal “quiet cue” without awkward interruptions
  • Gamify silence or focused discussion with fun, responsive feedback

What Is BouncyBalls.org and Why Should You Care?

At its core, BouncyBalls.org is a real-time sound visualizer that reacts to your microphone input. 

The louder the room or call gets, the more the virtual balls bounce, spin, or even blink on-screen. 

It’s surprisingly effective as a passive way to remind participants of their noise level—without saying a word.

You're not just seeing sound—you're giving your team a shared, intuitive cue that they can react to in real time. 

And unlike traditional decibel meters, this one comes with emoji balls, bouncing eyeballs, or bubbles. 

It’s not just practical—it’s memorable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.
  1. Open your browser (Safari, Edge, Chrome, Firefox).
  2. Visit BouncyBalls.org.
  3. Click "Begin Bouncing" and grant mic access.
  4. Choose a theme that suits your group: classic balls, emojis, bubbles, eyeballs, etc.
  5. Adjust the microphone sensitivity depending on your environment.
  6. Share your screen if facilitating a session so others can see the bouncing balls in real time.
Bouncy Balls


Pro Cool Tip: Run this on a second screen during meetings to keep the focus on conversation without interruptions.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Instant, non-verbal feedback: Great for team members who need a gentle reminder without being called out.
  • Fun, memorable tool: People will ask about it.
  • Zero setup: No downloads, accounts, or installs.

Cons
  • Mic quality matters: Weak or echoey mics can skew the bounce.
  • Can be distracting if the visuals are overused or made too central.
  • Best used sparingly: Like any novelty, its effectiveness fades if it's always on.
Friday Funday - One Cool Tip
Configuration Guide

The site offers simple but useful customization:
  • Sensitivity Slider: Adjusts how reactive the balls are to sound.
  • Themes: Choose from plastic balls, emojis, bubbles, eyeballs, and more.
  • Noise Alerts: Optionally enable sound alerts when noise exceeds thresholds.

All options are accessed from the toolbar once the mic is active.

Who Can Use It?

Anyone with:
  • A device that has a microphone
  • A modern browser (Chrome or Firefox preferred)
  • A need to moderate volume or visualize audio during a session
  • No account required. No cost. Completely web-based.

Key Takeaways

BouncyBalls.org is more than a novelty. 

It’s a clever, low-effort tool that makes meetings more mindful and collaborative. 

It gives teams a shared understanding of when they’re getting too loud without ever interrupting the flow of conversation.
Try It Yourself

Want to keep your next meeting on track? 

Try BouncyBalls.org during your next group call or brainstorming session. 

Share the screen, pick a fun theme, and watch how quickly people adjust their mic habits.

Bonus: It's a conversation starter in itself.


READ MORE

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Subscribe to the FREE OneCoolTip Newsletter.
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at onecooltip.com@gmail.com

Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.


One Cool Tip
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!

#RemoteWork #MeetingTools #NoiseManagement #WorkplaceProductivity #SoundMeter #TeamTools 
#FridayFunday #TechGuide #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 


Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

Subscribe to One Cool Tip Newsletter

πŸ”₯ Never Miss a Cool Tip🌟

Subscribe to the FREE One Cool Tip Newsletter!

It's the perfect gift for you, your family and friends!


 
Subscribe to the One Cool Tip Newsletter

πŸš€ Ready to level up your knowledge and stay ahead of the curve?

Join the OneCoolTip subscribers already enjoying our weekly dose of life hacks, productivity tips, and mind-blowing facts! 🌍


#TechTips #OneCoolTip  @OneCoolTip
 #Newsletter #LifeHacks #Productivity #KnowledgeIsPower

Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

Thursday, June 12, 2025

More than One Million Anker Power Banks Recalled Due to Fire and Burn Hazards; Manufactured by Anker Innovations


Anker Power Banks Recall


Hazard:

The lithium-ion battery in the power bank can overheat, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.

Remedy:

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled power banks and contact Anker Innovations for instructions on receiving a free replacement power bank. Visit https://www.anker.com/product-recalls to register for the recall. To receive a replacement, consumers will be required to submit a photo of their recalled power bank showing the model number, serial number, their name, the date of the photograph, and the word “recalled” written on the power bank in permanent marker. A purchase receipt will be requested but will not be required to participate in the recall. Consumers will also be required to confirm disposal of the power bank in accordance with applicable laws and regulations before receiving a replacement.


Units: About 1,158,000
Consumer Contact:
E-mail: support@anker.com
Phone: (800) 988-7973


READ MORE

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Subscribe to the FREE OneCoolTip Newsletter.
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at onecooltip.com@gmail.com

Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.


One Cool Tip
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!

#Anker #Recall #PowerBank #CPSC 
#TechGuide #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 


Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

Google Portraits with Kim Scott: Your AI Leadership Coach

Google Portraits with Kim Scott: Your AI Leadership Coach

Step into conversational coaching on leadership and feedback with Kim Scott’s AI-powered Portrait in Google Labs.  Get real-time guidance drawn from trust, candor, and expert voice.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 
June 12, 2025


Google Portraits - Kim Scott - Radical Candor
Ever wish Kim Scott could hop into your Zoom call at the moment you're wrestling with a tough feedback convo? 

Here's a Cool Tip: AI Coaching.

In early June 2025, Google Labs rolled out "Portraits," starting with a lifelike AI avatar of Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor.

It’s not science fiction—it’s your own virtual coach, available 24/7, ready when you are.

Google Portraits Kim Scott Random Candor

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

πŸ’‘ Win + C Is Back: One Cool Tip Newsletter, 6-11-25

One Cool Tip Newsletter, 6-11-25 


One Cool Tip Newsletter 6-11-2025

We explore the return of the Win + C shortcut for launching Copilot in Windows 11. This feature enhances productivity by providing instant AI-powered assistance. Stay informed about the latest tech updates, including the FBI's IoT cyber warning and highlights from Apple WWDC 2025. Subscribe for daily tips! 
  • 🚨 FBI IoT Cyber Warning.
  • 🍎 Apple WWDC 2025 Highlights.
  • πŸš€ Boost Your Week with AI.
  • πŸ–Ό️ Creative AI Photo Prompt.
  • ⚡ Win + C is Back for Copilot.
  • πŸŽ₯ Summarize Videos with Copilot.
  • πŸ€” Mastering Copilot in Edge.
  • πŸ†• Desktop Copilot App Upgrade.


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Subscribe to the FREE OneCoolTip Newsletter.
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at onecooltip.com@gmail.com

Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.


One Cool Tip
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!


#Windows11 #AI #TechNews #CyberSecurity #Productivity 
#TechTips #TechGuide #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 


Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

Win + C is Back: Open Copilot Instantly in Windows 11

Win + C is Back: Open Copilot Instantly in Windows 11

Microsoft revives a classic shortcut—Win + C now launches Copilot in Windows 11, thanks to the latest update. Here’s how it works and why it matters.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor
June 11, 2025


Copilot
Remember when the Win + C keyboard shortcut opened Cortana? 

Microsoft retired the shortcut after moving away from its voice assistant, leaving the key combo unused. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Win + C is back!

Win + C makes a comeback—this time launching Copilot, Microsoft's AI-powered assistant in Windows 11.

This functionality arrives with Windows 11 update KB5060842, part of the June 2025 cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2. 

If you rely on Copilot for quick answers, writing help, or coding assistance, this shortcut is a game-changer.

Let’s explore how to use it, why it’s useful, and how to customize it.

Windows + C Keyboard Shortcut

Cool Deals - June 11, 2025

 

Help support One Cool Tip. Use this Amazon link when you shop online.


Look at these Cool Products:
  • ⌨️ Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard: This premium keyboard offers comfortable typing and customizable shortcuts, perfect for integrating new hotkeys like Win + C into your workflow. $129.99 Check it out on Amazon!

  • πŸ–±️ Dell MS700 Bluetooth Travel Mouse: Its unique, foldable design makes it highly portable for on-the-go productivity, complementing the instant access Copilot provides. $49.99 Check it out on Amazon!


  • πŸ’» Dell XPS 15 Laptop: A powerful laptop that can seamlessly run Windows 11 and all its features, including Copilot, making the Win + C shortcut a daily convenience. $1,949 Check it out on Amazon!

One Cool Tip
http://www.onecooltip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!


#electronics #gifts #CoolDeals #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip


Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Exploring Wikipedia's List of Lists of Lists

Exploring Wikipedia's List of Lists of Lists

Wikipedia's "List of Lists of Lists" is a valuable, time-saving resource for quickly accessing condensed information on diverse topics. It highlights how this curated compilation helps users efficiently explore subjects, using literature as an example to show how writers can find inspiration through categorized lists of books and authors.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor
June 10, 2025 (originally published May 31, 2023)


Wikipedia icon
In the vast ocean of information available on the internet, Wikipedia stands as a beacon of knowledge. 

With its comprehensive articles covering various topics, it has become an indispensable resource for many. 

However, nestled within this vast repository of information lies a Cool Tip known as the  List of Lists of Lists

Wikipedia Lists of Lists

Monday, June 9, 2025

Cool Deals - June 9, 2025

Cool Deals - One Cool Tip

Help support One Cool Tip. Use this Amazon link when you shop online.


Look at these Cool Products:

  • πŸ’» Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard: Elevate your typing experience for all those documents! This premium keyboard offers comfortable, quiet typing and smart backlighting, perfect for long sessions in Word or Excel. $129.99 Check it out on Amazon!
  • ☁️ Seagate Portable 2TB External Hard Drive: While Version History shines with cloud storage, having a local backup for critical files is always smart. This portable drive offers ample space for all your documents and media. $69.99 Save $10! Check it out on Amazon!
  • 🎧 Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Focus on your work without distractions. These noise-canceling earbuds are perfect for deep dives into complex spreadsheets or presentations, ensuring you catch every detail. $174.11 Save $54.89 Check it out on Amazon!

One Cool Tip
http://www.onecooltip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!


#electronics #gifts #CoolDeals #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip


Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved

How to Use Version History in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

How to Use Version History in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 

Ever accidentally deleted the perfect paragraph or lost an important file change? 

Microsoft 365’s Version History is your safety net that allows you to restore previous versions of your Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files. 

Here’s how to master it for effortless file recovery and revision control.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 
June 8, 2025


Microsoft 365 - Word Excel PowerPoint
We've all been there. 

You hit “Save,” only to realize you’ve erased something essential—or worse, someone else overwrites your file. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Restore Previous Versions with Version History.

Version History in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is your secret weapon, letting you rewind time, restore changes, and keep your documents intact. 

Whether you're a business user, educator, or productivity enthusiast, knowing how to use Version History can save you from frustrating file mishaps.

Microsoft 365 Word Excel PowerPoint Version History