Author: Marc Saltzman, Special to USA TODAY

Do you now work from home as part of social distancing measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus? There are ways to improve productivity.

There are some essential tools you need to work from home successfully including a suitable computer, reliable network and backup storage.

Streaming tips

Classic casual games such as Solitaire, sudoku, crossword puzzles and pinball live on smartphones and tablets as the mobile gaming audience expands.

Scrabble is among classic casual games getting new life on smartphones and tablets as the mobile video game audience continues to grow.

Tips to help you sleep better include disengaging from tech before bed — signing off Facebook and Twitter and not bringing gadgets into the bedroom.

Webcams foster connectivity and can aid in home security. But you want to make sure your webcams are secure, too, and your privacy isn’t invaded.

Your local dollar-priced store — think Dollar Tree, Family Dollar — can be a place to get some nifty tech bargains for your smartphone and computer.

About 25% of U.S. consumers use smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home. But the speakers’ onboard AI-driven digital assistants can do more.

You already know how to do lots with your iPhone. But there’s more features and life hacks you can use to make texting, navigating and gaming easier.