Hi, the gratitude is appreciated.
1) Are there detailed instructions anywhere about using the stock browser? I've been trying to do simple things go back to the homepage, or (since it has an option for "opening in a new tab") figuring out how to switch from one open webpage to another. Stuff that's so intuitive on my computer or smartphone.
You can swipe your finger to go back a page. Do this at the bottom black strip where the wifi and battery indicator are. Slide your finger from right to left in a swift motion.
At the top right of the browser is a drop down menu. Click on it and select New Window. When you want to return to an open window do the same thing and select Window
2) I'm getting awfully close to rooting my NC. Has anyone noticed how much more quickly using apps have been draining your phone? I'm used to my Android-based phone losing juice *really* quickly if I'm, say, playing Angry Birds, and wondering if it's any different on the NC.
I haven't experienced any negative effect on battery life. You're right about phones being greatly affected. Not the case with the NC.