Wednesday, August 30, 2023

A Must See - Snow White In 4K October 10th

 FOR THE FIRST TIME! DISNEY’S SNOW WHITE TO BE

RELEASED ON 4K UHD BLU-RAY™ OCTOBER 10



THE CELEBRATION OF 100 MAGICAL YEARS OF DISNEY
CONTINUES WITH THE RELEASE OF THE CLASSIC FILM
THAT STARTED IT ALL!

 
BURBANK, CA (August 30, 2023) – The Walt Disney Company announced today a special restored and remastered 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release of the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ first ever animated feature – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

This will be the first time that the classic film has been made available in stunning 4K UHD, as part of The Walt Disney Studios’ continuing major restoration program using new scans of the original nitrate negative and with the creative input of Disney Animation experts Eric Goldberg (one of the modern masters of Disney animation) and Michael Giaimo (production designer of WishFrozenFrozen 2 and Pocahontas). This newly restored version of the beloved film is part of Disney's 100th anniversary celebration and follows the recent restoration of Disney Animation’s Cinderella, released in 4K UHD earlier this year.

This new Disney100 edition will be released nationwide in a special collectible O-sleeve. There will also be a number of retail exclusives, with Best Buy offering a special Steelbook and Walmart offering animated titles in Disney100 edition slipcovers with a Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs collectible pin.


Film Synopsis
The beautiful and kindhearted princess Snow White charms every creature in the kingdom except one -- her jealous stepmother, the Queen. When the Magic Mirror proclaims Snow White is the fairest one of all, she must flee into the forest, where she befriends the lovable seven dwarfs -- Doc, Sneezy, Grumpy, Happy, Bashful, Sleepy and Dopey. But when the Queen tricks Snow White with an enchanted apple, only the magic of true love's kiss can save her!

Product Specifications

Release Date
PhysicalOctober 10, 2023
 
Product SKUs
Physical: 4K Ultra HD + Digital Code
 
Feature Run Time
Approx. 83 minutes
 
Rating
U.S. Rated G

Aspect Ratio
Physical: 1.37:1

Disc Size
4K UHD: 66GB

U.S. Audio
4K Ultra HD: English 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, English 5.1 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus

U.S. Subtitles
4K Ultra HD: English SDH, Spanish, French

Monday, August 28, 2023

Selling Your Car Online? Consider These Pricing Strategies

 In today's digital age, selling your car online has become a convenient and efficient way to connect with potential buyers. Online platforms offer a vast reach and accessibility that traditional methods can't match. However, setting the right price for your vehicle can be a challenging task. To maximize your chances of a successful sale and avoid leaving money on the table, consider these pricing strategies when using online car dealerships.

1. Research Comparable Listings

Before you dive into pricing your car, take some time to research similar listings. Look for vehicles with similar make, model, year, mileage, and condition. Online car dealerships provide a plethora of listings that you can use as a reference. By comparing your car to others on the market, you'll gain a better understanding of the price range that aligns with the current market trends.

2. Set a Competitive Initial Price

When you're ready to list your car on an online platform, start with a competitive initial price. Avoid the temptation to overprice your vehicle, as this can deter potential buyers. Online shoppers are savvy and often have access to ample information to compare prices. An inflated price could lead to your listing being overlooked in favor of more reasonably priced options.

3. Factor in Online Dealer Fees

Many online car dealerships charge a fee to list your vehicle on their platform. Make sure to factor in these fees when determining your asking price. While it's essential to cover your costs, remember that potential buyers will be comparing the total cost, including fees, with similar listings. Aim for a balance that offers value while also accounting for the platform fees.

4. Highlight Unique Selling Points

Online buyers are not just looking for a car; they're seeking a solution to their transportation needs. If your vehicle has unique features or has been well-maintained, highlight these points in your listing. Whether it's low mileage, recent maintenance, or added accessories, showcasing these aspects can justify a slightly higher price.

5. Be Open to Negotiation

Flexibility is key when it comes to online car sales. Most buyers will expect some room for negotiation, so be prepared for offers below your initial asking price. While it's essential to be realistic, don't undervalue your car just to make a quick sale. 

6. Monitor Market Trends

Online car markets are dynamic, with prices fluctuating based on demand and supply. If you notice a surge in demand for a specific make or model, you might be able to increase your asking price slightly. Conversely, during slower periods, you may need to adjust your price to attract potential buyers.

7. Leverage Local Market Insights

For those looking to "sell my car online Huntsville AL," it's crucial to consider local market insights. Factors such as geographical location, weather conditions, and regional preferences can impact the value of your vehicle. Research the Huntsville, AL market to ensure your pricing aligns with local expectations.

In conclusion, selling your car online through reputable dealerships offers an incredible opportunity to connect with a wide range of potential buyers. To make the most of this opportunity, employ pricing strategies.



The Teenage Kraken Will Be Released On DigitalTomorrow!

 

 

UNLEASHING WAVES OF EXCITEMENT! YOUR NEW FAVORITE TEENAGE HERO SPLASHES INTO HOMES WITH OVER AN HOUR OF BONUS CONTENT

 

OWN THE ALL-NEW COLLECTOR’S EDITION
ON DIGITAL AUGUST 29, 2023,
BLU-RAY™ AND DVD SEPTEMBER 26, 2023
FROM UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT

 

 


 

Universal City, California, August 22, 2023 – Plunge into the action with the all-new coming-of-age aquatic adventure in DreamWorks Animation’s, RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN Collector’s Edition, available on Digital August 29, 2023, and on Blu-rayTM and DVD September 26, 2023, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Hailed as “one of the best family films of the year,” (Nell Minow, Roger Ebert), discover the hero just beneath the surface now with over an hour of bonus content filled with never-before-seen bonus features including deleted scenes, “Make Your Own Aquarium” how-to video, interviews with cast and crew, character drawing tutorials and more!   
 
Dive into the turbulent waters of high school with this heartwarming action comedy about a shy teenager who discovers that she’s part of a legendary royal lineage of mythical sea krakens and that her destiny, in the depths of the oceans, is bigger than she ever dreamed. Learning to be an all-powerful sea creature while hiding among humans is hard enough for Ruby, but to make matters worse, her super popular new bestie, Chelsea, is secretly a mermaid! Mermaids have been battling the Krakens for eons to rule the ocean, but Chelsea has come to land to finally put an end to that conflict. However, when Chelsea double-crosses her, Ruby will ultimately need to embrace who she is and GO BIG to protect those she loves most.
 
The film is directed by Kirk DeMicco (Vivo, The Croods), produced by Kelly Cooney Cilella (Trolls World Tour), co-directed by Faryn Pearl (story artist, The Croods: A New Age, Trolls World Tour), and written by Pam Brady (South Park). The all-star cast includes Lana Condor (“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” franchise), Golden Globe® winner Toni Collette (The Boxtrolls, Knives Out), Emmy® winner Annie Murphy (“Schitt’s Creek”), Emmy® winner Colman Domingo (“Fear the Walking Dead, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts), Emmy® nominee Sam Richardson (“Ted Lasso”), Liza Koshy (Transformers: Rise of the Beasts), Emmy® nominee Will Forte (“The Last Man on Earth”), Jaboukie Young-White (Strange World, Ralph Breaks the Internet), Eduardo Franco (“Stranger Things”), Ramona Young (“Never Have I Ever,” “Legends of Tomorrow”), and Academy Award® winner Jane Fonda (Book Club: The Next Chapter, 80 For Brady).
 
With the purchase of RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN on disc or digital, fans are eligible to earn points towards digital movies via the Universal All-Access Rewards program. Members can redeem their points for digital movies, swag and more!  For registration and details please visit www.MyUniversalRewards.com.


BONUS FEATURES on BLU-RAYTM, DVD AND DIGITAL for your collection:

· DELETED SCENES WITH INTROS – Introductions by Co-Director Faryn Pearl

o   PROLOGUE

o   WALK TO SCHOOL

o   CRAB ‘N SKATE

· OCEANSIDE DRAWING GUIDE – Head of story, Glenn Harmon, will teach everyone how to draw Ruby Gillman in her teenager and kraken forms, Grandmamah, Chelsea, and mermaid Chelsea.

o   RUBY GILLMAN

o   KRAKEN RUBY

o   GRANDMAMAH

o   CHELSEA VAN DER ZEE

o   MERMAID CHELSEA

· MAKE YOUR OWN AQUARIUM – With a few simple products and a little imagination, you can bring the undersea world into your own home.

o   KRAKENARIUM

o   WELL OF SEAS

· SQUAD SOLIDARITY: ADVENTURES IN ADR

· THE KRAKEN: MYTH OR MONSTER – In this animated piece narrated by Lana Condor and Annie Murphy, we dive deep into the mysteries of krakens and discover how stories of these mythical beasts have evolved over hundreds and hundreds of years.

· MEET THE GILLMAN CAST - Meet the cast behind your favorite RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN characters and discover what they loved about lending their voices to this aquatic adventure!

· THE KRAKEN KREW: MEET THE HUMANS BEHIND THE GILLMANS

· PROM STORIES – Ruby’s greatest wish was to attend prom with her friends and crush Connor! Here, the cast of the movie share their own prom stories and explain how they would design a promposal.

· SUPER SEA GIRL BESTIES – If you can see it, you can be it! In this piece we meet the talented women involved in the making of RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN.

· FEATURE COMMENTARY - with Director Kirk DeMicco, Co-Director Faryn Pearl, Producer Kelly Cooney Cilella, Head of Character Animation Carlos Fernandez Puertolas and Head of Cinematography, Layout Jon Gutman.


UPHE Website: https://www.uphe.com/movies/ruby-gillman-teenage-kraken
UPHE Trailer: https://uni.pictures/RubyGillman_HomeEntTrailer
Facebook: @teenagekrakenmovie
Instagram: @teenagekrakenmovie
TikTok: @dreamworks
Twitter: @dreamworks
#TeenageKrakenMovie

FILMMAKERS
Cast: Lana Condor, Toni Collette, Annie Murphy, Colman Domingo and Jane Fonda
Score By: Stephanie Economou
Written By: Pam Brady and Brian C Brown & Elliott DiGuiseppi
Executive Producer: Mike Mitchell
Co-Producer: Rachel Zusser
Produced By: Kelly Cooney Cilella p.g.a
Co-Director: Faryn Pearl
Directed By: Kirk DeMicco
 
TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD:
Street Date: September 26, 2023
Selection Number: 191329246429 (US) / 191329246436 (CDN)
Layers: DVD 9
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 16:9 2.35:1
Rating: PG for some action, rude humor and thematic elements.
Languages/Subtitles: English, Dutch, Flemish, French European
Sound: English (Dolby Digital 5.1 for Feature, Dolby Digital 2.0 for Bonus Content), Dutch (Dolby Digital 5.1 for Feature) Flemish (Dolby Digital 5.1 for Feature), French European (Dolby Digital 5.1 for Feature)
Run Time: 01:27:27
 
TECHNICAL INFORMATION BLU-RAY:
Street Date: September 26, 2023
Selection Number: 191329246320 (US) / 191329246221 (CDN)
Layers: BD 50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 16:9 2.35:1
Rating: PG for some action, rude humor and thematic elements.
Languages/Subtitles: English, Dutch, Flemish, French European, German, Italian
Sound: English (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 for Feature, Dolby Digital 2.0 for Bonus Content), Dutch (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for Feature), Flemish (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for Feature), French European (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for Feature), German (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for Feature), Italian (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for Feature)
Run Time: 01:31: 04

ABOUT UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT:
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE – www.uphe.com) is a unit of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG). UFEG produces, acquires, markets and distributes filmed entertainment worldwide in various media formats for theatrical, home entertainment, television and other distribution platforms, as well as consumer products, interactive gaming and live entertainment. The global division includes Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, Universal Brand Development, Fandango, DreamWorks Animation Film and Television.  UFEG is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience.  NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

ABOUT DREAMWORKS ANIMATION
DreamWorks Animation (DWA), a division of the Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, within NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation, is a global family entertainment company with feature film and television brands. The company’s deep portfolio of intellectual property is supported by a robust, worldwide consumer products practice, which includes licensing, and location-based entertainment venues around the world.  DWA’s feature film heritage includes many of the world’s most beloved characters and franchises, including Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Spirit, Trolls, The Boss Baby and 2022’s The Bad Guys and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish have amassed more than $16 billion in global box office receipts. DreamWorks Animation’s television studio is one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality, animated family programming, reaching consumers in more than 190 countries with a diverse array of award-winning original content through streaming and linear broadcasters. 

Feeling Overwhelmed



I have felt like there is too much on my plate lately.

Just two months ago I made a list of places I wanted to go this summer since I had put in to reduce my work hours to just Tuesday through Thursday like I have done for the past three Summers. When the kids were small I took the summer off but COVID happened and I needed to get back to work because of the limited staff. The days off would be hard on my paycheck but they only equated to 17 total days and I was going to be pet sitting so figured the kids and I could do things on one of those days and the other day my daughter and I (son if he wanted to) could visit some of the Google map list of places to go. Yeah...none of that happened.  Pet sitting, meetings, doctor appointments, kid's work schedule, ideas for the class on the days I was working, etc., changed all that.

We did hit the mall three times as my son reminded me today. We did go out to lunch a few times with friends and I think one of those days I was lazy and hung around the house but mostly we were on the go!

I have two weddings, a new class to acclimate to, Halloween, pet sitting, a meeting for my son,  Thanksgiving, a trip to Disney and Christmas to think about and that all starts happening in the next few days. 

Somehow I was under the impression that I would be doing way less at this point in my life. 57 and in 10 years God willing 67. SO what do I have maybe 10 more decent years?!  Wow! That seems so horrifying. 

My husband feels none of this stress. He works then does yard work. The vacation was also booked by him leaving just paying for it as the only stress. I cannot imagine feeling zero stress on a day to day. 

Thankfully I know how to calm my own concerns. I keep everything on a calendar so I can remind myself of anything coming up. I journal so this relaxes my brain and my heart rate is on the low end. Is that good?! I don't even know. 

Do I really feel like I need to ask for permission to relax as a friend mentioned this morning? I don't know if that is me. It's my own fault that I feel stress over the above. Weddings sound fun for some. Dressing up and spending money is a stress for me. Sitting and trying to chat with my husband for a few hours should be good right!? I hope it is. I want it to be but we don't talk much. He likes things quiet so I tend to be quiet. Last night I allowed myself to be a little of my old self. I was chatting with my daughter in the car while we passed a very dark park. Teenagers in the park were laughing and one of them screamed a blood curdling scream. I was talking and without missing a beat, screamed right back. It was a long, loud, blood curdling scream then went back to talking. My daughter started laughing, touched my arm and said "I love you Mom!" she thought it was hysterical. I love that she found joy in it and I found myself loving that I had felt free enough to just scream with the kids. It is okay to be just me but I wish that I felt more "me" with others beside my daughter. Why do I hold back? I use to shine. I use to be okay and capable of handling a few stressers without feeling overwhelmed. 

Maybe one day...well one day has to be right now. I deserve to be around others and situations that bring out the softness, fun, shiny side, not the survival side. It is okay for others to not be okay with what I do or say. It is not okay for me to squash my feelings down because someone may be uncomfortable with what I do or say. 

Time for change has to start now. 




Friday, August 25, 2023

Expend4ables Has An R Rating?

 



SYNOPSIS:

A new generation of stars join the world’s top action stars for an adrenaline-fueled adventure in Expend4bles. Reuniting as the team of elite mercenaries, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, and Sylvester Stallone are joined for the first time by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, and Andy Garcia. Armed with every weapon they can get their hands on and the skills to use them, The Expendables are the world’s last line of defense and the team that gets called when all other options are off the table. But new team members with new styles and tactics are going to give “new blood” a whole new meaning.  


Lionsgate and Millennium Media present A Nu Boyana Studios and Templeton Media Production in Association With Grobman Films in Association with Media Capital Technologies. 


Genre: 

Rating: 

Directed by: 

Screenplay by: 

Screen Story by: 

Based On: 

Cast: 

Action

R

Scott Waugh

Kurt Wimmer & Tad Daggerhart and Max Adams

Spenser Cohen and Kurt Wimmer & Tad Daggerhart

Characters Created by David Callaham    

Jason Statham, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Dolph Lundgren, Tony Jaa, 

Iko Uwais, Randy Couture, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, with Andy Garcia, and Sylvester Stallone

Official Site

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

#Expend4bles

Thursday, August 24, 2023

MEGALOMANIAC In Theaters September 8th

 

MEGALOMANIAC

 


STARRING 

Eline Schumacher, Wim Willaert, Benjamin Ramon, Pierre Nisse, Raphaëlle Lubansu

 

DIRECTED BY 

Karim Ouelhaj


 

IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 8



Martha and Félix are the children of the Butcher of Mons, a notorious Belgian serial killer from the 1990s. Unstable and riddled with insecurities, Martha lives vicariously through social media. Her brother, crushed by the family legacy, takes over their father's killings. Harassed and violently assaulted at work, the docile Martha falls into madness and goes through the looking glass into the strange and terrifying world inhabited by her brother.


Play Together As A Family For Memories and To Boost Creativity and Mindfulness



Back-to-School Family Mindfulness Tools


Starting a new school year and routine can be exciting, but it can also stir up a lot of emotions–for kids and parents alike! Here are two of my favorite mindfulness tools which you and your kids can use anytime to make a smoother transition and feel calmer.

#1: Five Senses

I absolutely love this technique as it is super simple and quickly shifts your focus from your thoughts to your body. Rather than getting caught up in whatever story is on replay in your head, this technique draws you back to the present moment and engages all of your senses.

To play, simply stop and notice one thing around you with each of your five senses: sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. For example, if your child is nervously waiting at the bus stop, she might notice...

  • Sight – clouds floating in the sky
  • Smell – the fresh cut grass
  • Hearing – children talking
  • Taste – minty toothpaste
  • Touch – their backpack in their fingertips

As you notice each item, see if you can also slow your breath. You can place your hand on your heart and even say a short mantra like, I breathe in peace, or your kids might say something like, all is good. See if you can bring a smile to your face. And above all, be ok with however you are feeling, knowing that it too will pass.

#2: Five Finger Breathing

Another easy yet powerful tool to ease the back-to-school transition is five finger breathing. To play, hold up one of your hands with your palm facing you. Using your index finger from your other hand, trace up your pinky finger as you slowly inhale. Then trace down your pinky as you slowly exhale. Repeat for each of your fingers for a total of five breaths.

You can always continue if you’d like, but just by stopping to trace these five breaths you will have slowed your nervous system to help re-engage your parasympathetic nervous system. Whenever you or your child notice that you are getting a bit geared up, I always recommend pausing and taking a breath with a long exhale! This helps your body feel more relaxed.

Another thing I love about this game is that even if you can’t trace your fingers- for example your kids are in the middle of class or you are in the middle of a meeting, you can visualize it, or at the very least take five slow deep breaths in and out.

Interested in more fun tools and games that help teach emotional regulation and other important life skills? Check out my new book, Play Together: Games & Activities for the Whole Family to Boost Creativity, Connection & Mindfulness,for over 60 screen-free, entertaining and educational games. Visit laurahaver.com to learn more. Play on!

About the Author

Laura Haver 
is a play, happiness and communication expert, author, speaker and life design coach. She has helped hundreds of individuals and families to experience more play, growth and inspiration in their lives. Laura is the founder of Author Moms (a community that connects, supports and inspires fellow writing moms) and Alchemy of Fun (a community for busy women who want to bring more fun, fulfillment and magic into their lives). She has been featured on the Today Show, CBS, Fox and more. She has over 25 years coaching experience in leadership, life design and tennis (for both children and adults). Laura lives in San Diego with her husband and two sons. Visit laurahaver.com for more information.

Praise for Play Together

“...an inspired collection of games, harnessing the power of play to help families have more fun while also building important life skills.” —Matt Weinstein, founder of Playfair, Inc., bestselling author and dubbed “The Master of Playfulness” by PEOPLE Magazine

“...a must for any parent looking for more meaningful and joyful connections with the children in their lives.” —Kasey Mathews, transformational life coach and author ofPreemie: Lessons in Love, Life and Motherhood
 
“...a must-have book for any adult wanting to nourish one of the greatest gifts of childhood—play.” —Cheryl Peterson, Ph.D., instructor and author of IDEAS andBecause of 4
 
“...an exciting and inspiring book that is a fantastic tool, guiding adults to think outside the box about how we engage in quality fun with our kids.” —Erica Spiegelman, counselor and author of Rewired and The Rewired Life
 
“I love that Play Together focuses on simple activities with materials you likely already have at home, and that the activities don't require a ton of adult preparation.” —Alanna Gallo, founder of Play. Learn. Thrive.

# # #

Play Together
Written by Laura Haver
978-1-57826-974-7, $18.00 paperback
978-1-57826-975-4, $9.99 ebook

Published by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com


Sunday, August 20, 2023

Cutting the Cord - Why Landline Alternatives Are the Way to Go

"Cutting the cord" refers to quitting your cable or satellite TV provider. If you can locate what you want to watch on streaming services like Netflix, YouTube TV, and Philo, doing this could save you money.

Cable providers are beginning to take cord-cutting seriously and are providing more affordable smaller bundles. But is the change worthwhile?

Cost

A landline may make little sense if you rely on your cell phone for most calls. Many households are ditching landlines altogether to cut their bills.

Traditional landline home phones use a complex spiderweb of copper wires owned by telecom companies to connect buildings. They're expensive to maintain and can be subject to outages, price hikes, and significant taxes.

Landline alternatives such as Ooma Telo are available. These VoIP landline providers offer one-time hardware costs and a low monthly fee for local, national, and sometimes international calling. They also have features like caller ID, voicemail, and faxing capability. In addition, these devices are portable and can be taken with you when traveling. They can even work during power outages (though a cellular provider would be preferable in this scenario). You could even port your old landline number to these alternatives.

Convenience

With a suitable home phone alternative, ditching your landline can be easy. For example, many VoIP services use your broadband connection and provide a complete set of standard phone line features at a fraction of the cost. Some even include a fundamental home phone base with solid coverage that eliminates the need for expensive copper wire connections.

Other options let you park your landline number and play a message to callers that say to dial your new mobile number instead. Some can also connect you to a service that routes 911 calls to your emergency service provider using a digital signaling system so that first responders know exactly where the call is coming from.

Another way to cut the cord is to ditch your cable bundle and replace it with live-streaming options. If you can't live without the newest episodes of your favorite show or want access to more than just primary channels, you can always supplement this with an antenna.

Flexibility

Whether you want to cut your cable TV subscription or seek cheaper landline phone services, plenty of options are available. Many of these alternatives use VoIP to connect your business so that you can avoid expensive ATAs and other hardware. Depending on the size of your business, you can choose from open-source solutions or paid providers.

Residential VoIP uses your home Wi-Fi connection to make and receive calls, the same connections that power everything from computers and televisions to connected doorbells and virtual assistants. It means you can get rid of your traditional landline and its monthly bill without missing out on the reliable service that it provides.

In addition, your landline can provide a crucial line of communication in the event of an emergency. While 911 support for cell phones and online calls has improved, emergency personnel still need to know your exact location to respond quickly.

Security

Some people who cut their home phone cords do so to streamline paperwork and bill-paying. Others may use a landline alternative to take advantage of features not available on cell phones, including caller ID, call forwarding, and three-way calling. And for some, a reliable landline can provide a sense of security. Unlike cellphones, which can be hampered by spotty cellular reception, harsh weather, or even chewed-through charging cords, landlines are always on and grid-independent, which is a big deal in remote areas and for people with disabilities who rely on a fixed phone line for fall detection services.

Also, traditional landlines are keyed to a specific building and address, which means 911 emergency services can accurately pinpoint their location. This feature is unavailable on digital alternatives, such as VoIP-based home phones and cell phone apps, which route calls to the nation's 911 call centers differently.