The VAR Guy

Dell launched a bunch of new laptops this week — yada, yada, yada — with a bunch of new features. As part of the product launch, Dell also introduced a new online community called Digital Nomads. Generally speaking, Dell has had a lot of success launching social networks for customers and consumers. But this time around, The VAR Guy is a bit more skeptical of Dell’s efforts.

Apple has found an intriguing way to train thousands of kids on Macintoshes this summer. The strategy involves free “camps” hosted at Apple Stores across the country. Thousands of kids — including The VAR Guy’s own sons — are signing up. Here’s why.

Thanks to poor service and support from JetBlue and a Westin hotel, The VAR Guy estimates that he lost about 5 hours of personal productivity this week. Our resident blogger was pretty darn frustrated — until a trip to the Apple Store restored The VAR Guy’s faith in customer service. Here’s what happened.