Brands, Products, and Values

Less is more.
Robert Browning, englischer Dichter, 1812 – 1889

I like the idea of minimalism. I don't want dozens of things for everything imaginable; I just want to have what I really need, and it should be the right thing for that. The products should be simple and well-thought-out. Instead of going to Starbucks, I prefer to go to the small local coffee shop. Of course, there are big brands that I also use, and sometimes a Frappuccino is quite okay. Unfortunately, I'm not quite as consistent when it comes to electronic gadgets. My home is, of course, smart.

Products I like

Apple

As a Microsoft System Engineer, I naturally found Apple to be the last choice. When my PC, with Outlook, took more than 10 minutes to start up one morning, it was time for a change. Since then, I have been using Apple products. No more 70 million settings; as someone over 50, I appreciate the simplicity.

Minix Neo P1

Best gadget ever! With this adapter, you can leave all other chargers at home. I use it to charge my MacBook, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and everything else you might be carrying around.

Init7

One of my most important connections is my internet connection. Excellent infrastructure. In my view, Init7 is the best option for a fiber-optic connection in Zurich. If you also prefer smaller providers and order via this link, we both get 110 francs. Good deal, right?

Github

I trust my code to GitHub . GitHub is a web-based service that helps developers store and manage their code, as well as track and control changes to their code.

Visual Studio Code

VS-Code is the code editor I trust. A developer doesn't need much more. It's available for OSX and Windows.

TablePlus

Best database client for MySQL and similar databases.

FileZilla

FileZilla is an FTP client with all the necessary functions. FileZilla seamlessly resumes interrupted downloads. Perfect for copying large amounts to a server even while on the go. FileZilla is free and open source. However, there is a Pro version.

Teleboy

Linear television was yesterday; I want to watch shows when I have time. So, you need a good provider with a very good app for Apple TV (or Smart TV). I use Teleboy for this.

Apple Homekit

Apple Homekit

Siri asks me in the morning if she should turn on the coffee machine. That's how it should be. But I don't want 20 apps for the various gadgets; I want just ONE app where I can control everything, in my case, Apple HomeKit.

Qatar Airways

Since I commute to Bangkok 1-2 times a year, I need an airline I can rely on. Qatar was one of the few airlines that continued to fly to Bangkok during the pandemic. My flight was rebooked easily and without complications. Furthermore, the service is top-notch, and the price is right.

Freitag

As a person from Zurich, you naturally have a Freitag bag. I usually have mine with me. Everywhere. I like the story behind them, and the bags are durable.

Wise

As a Swiss, one should actually work with Swiss banks. Unfortunately, they have completely missed the digitalization train. High fees and no usable app. So I use Wise for credit card payments and transfers abroad. If you want to try Wise, feel free to use this link, then I'll get a small bonus. Thank you.

Neon

Because I can't pay bills with Transferwise, I have Neon. Neon is free. Great thing, even if they're not yet in the Transferwise or Revolut league. If you want to try Neon, use the following code when signing up: 6C3LL7 You'll get 10 francs, and so will I. Thank you!

Netflix

Netflix understood from the beginning that simplicity is the key to success. No complicated annual subscription packages. A flat fee for everything and an app that works on all kinds of devices. Monthly cancellable. Attractive series that we are all now addicted to. I like!

Line Messenger

Line Messenger

When communicating with Thais, I naturally use Line as a messenger. WhatsApp is not used there. With Line, you can now also top up the BTS card, which is very convenient. Line has these cool stickers, I like!

Ibiza Global Radio

In the beginning there was Jack And Jack had a groove. And from this groove came the grooves of all grooves and while one day vicously throwing down on his box Jack boldly declared, let there be house. And house music was born.

Get in Touch

Asking questions is free.

I'm happy to answer your questions. You can reach me most easily via email at reto.frei@zuri.net.