VERSUS: Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014
Motorola made its budget-friendly Moto G 2015 bigger and better when compared to last year's Moto G, but is it worth the slightly higher price?
The Moto G 3rd gen certainly has a lot to live up to. Moto G 2014 was hailed as the best cheap phone on the market, and there's only so much you can upgrade at such a low price point.
We took a look at the new Moto G and last year's model in a side-by-side comparison to see just what has changed over the last 10 months.
Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014: Design
The 2015 version of the Moto G keeps things relatively similar compared to last year's model when it comes to the overall look of the device, however there are a number of key differences. The camera module, for example, has become much more defined, getting its own metallic casing that extends to the indented Motorola logo around halfway down the back of the device.
Another important difference is that the 2015 Moto G has a water-resistant rating of IPX7, meaning that the new phone can be fully submerged in up to 1 meter of water for as long as 30 minutes. While it's not made specifically to be used underwater, if you accidentally drop it in the pool, the device should be fine.
Those who want to have more control over the design of their phone will also be pleased to know that the Moto G 2015 is the first of Motorola's budget handsets you can customize through Moto Maker, allowing you to choose things like the front color, back color, and accent color of their device. You can also add engravings to your device as well as change how much storage you want it to have, all through Moto Maker.
It's important to note that the new Moto G is slightly thicker than 2014's model, coming in at 11.3mm at its thickest point. It is also a little shorter, being 141.5mm tall, compared to last year's 142.1mm.
Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014: Display
While Motorola has upgraded the pixel count of the camera, the 2015 model's display remained the same as its 2014 counterpart.
This is a little frustrating, because the phone does have a larger battery, so it should be able to handle 1080p without a problem.
The display resolution is 1,280 x 720 pixels, translating to a 294 pixels-per-inch pixel density. It uses IPS LCD technology, offering wide viewing angles, and is 5-inches in total, fairly large for a device in its price range.
Moto G (2015) vs Moto G (2014): Processing and RAM
At the heart of the Moto G 2015 is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 quad-core processor that's clocked at 1.4GHz.
That's a little more power if you're coming from last year's Moto G that had the Snapdragon 400 quad-core chip that ran at 1.2GHz. This power bump is ideal for those who like a phone that can multitask as a reasonable pace.
The chip bump will be especially apparent for those who purchase the 2015 Moto G with 16GB of storage, which comes with 2GB of RAM. The 8GB version of the device comes with 1GB of RAM, like both versions of the 2014 Moto G.
Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014: Camera
One of the biggest improvements in this year's Moto G is found in the camera. While last year's Moto G included an 8MP rear-facing shooter, the 2015 version offers a 13MP camera – great news if you care about taking decent photos.
In fact, this is the same camera found on the Google Nexus 6, which is around three times the price of the Moto G. The camera also now features a dual-LED flash.
For those interested in video chatting or using Snapchat, Motorola has also heard your requests, bumping the new Moto G's camera up to 5MP instead of just 2MP.
Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014: Battery
Another point of improvement for the 2015 Moto G is in the battery, which has been raised to 2,470 mAh, over last year's 2,070 mAh.
This is quite a nice upgrade, and should help the device last a lot longer than its predecessor, despite this more power-hungry processor.
According to Motorola, in fact, the larger battery will last for 24 hours of mixed use. Of course, hearing that from the company is different from what you might experience, so stay tuned for benchmarks in our full Moto G 2015 review.
Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014: Pricing and availability
The 2015 Moto G is available immediately in over 60 countries, costing $179 (£179, around AU$245) for the 8GB version and $219 (£209, around AU$300) for the 16GB version.
This is part of the reason that Motorola has gained so much popularity – it's a midrange phone with the price tag of a low-end device.
- Also budget-friendly: OnePlus 2 hands on review
Moto G 2015 vs Moto G 2014: Verdict
The new Moto G is a far better device for almost the same low cost as last year's version. What's not to love?For those looking for a great Google-powered device running close to stock Android 5.1.1 and able to handle everyday use at a fairly low price, the Moto G is once again an ideal option.
For those, however, who need a real workhorse that can take more than the average user might throw at it, it's important to note the Moto G is still a midrange phone, and the new Moto X Style (Moto X Pure Edition in the US) or Moto X Play might do you better.
- Still need convincing? Read our Moto G 2015 review
Read More ...
Google can now translate 27 new languages instantly
Earlier this year, Google had said that it was working on increasing the number of languages it can translate instantly through its Google Translate app.
Today, the search-giant announced that it had added support for 20 languages for instant visual translating, increasing the total to 27 languages.
Although the app does still translate up to 37 languages by taking a photo of text and then downloading a translated language pack for each photo, the live visual translation feature doesn't require you to download anything.
You're only required to open the app, select the language you want text to be translated to, click on the camera button and then point it at whatever you're trying to translate.
The translation will show up on your screen within the visual context of what you're pointing at, without needing an internet connection - a plus when you're traveling.
What does the sign say?
Previously, the app could only instantly translate to and from English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.Google Translate's update will now include Bulgarian, Catalan, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Filipino, Finnish, Hungarian, Indonesian, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Polish, Romanian, Slovak, Swedish, Turkish and Ukrainian for instant translations.
Google says the app will also allow you to do one-way translations from English to Hindi or Thai.
The update will be rolled out to Android and iOS over the next few days.
- Check out our review of the Galaxy Note 4
Read More ...
You can dictate WhatsApp, Viber messages via Google Now
Google has launched a new feature that will let you dictate and send messages through third-party apps through Google Now on Android phones.
While Google's app has previously let you dictate and send texts, messages to send through Hangouts as well as emails.
This is the first time the search-giant is opening up the voice messaging feature to third-party apps.
"Just say, 'OK Google, send a WhatsApp message to Joe,' after which you'll get a prompt asking you to dictate your message," Google said in a blog post. You can also just add in the message without having to wait for a prompt.
Third-party happy
The new feature works with WhatsApp, Viber, WeChat, Telegram and NextPlus, though you'll need to make sure you have the latest version of these apps.Currently, though the feature is available around the world, it only works if you speak the message in English, but Google says it is working on including more languages.
Google is also planning on adding support for more third-party apps in the future.
- This isn't the only new feature added to Google Now
Read More ...
Windows 10 Mobile is almost ready for your Lumia
Last we heard Windows 10 Mobile was a long way off and would come as late as November, but now we've learned Microsoft's new mobile operating system is nearly feature completely.
In an interview with The Verge, Microsoft's Joe Belfiore let slip that Windows 10 Mobile "significantly feature complete." In the coming months Microsoft will supposedly continue to polish and tweak the OS for future Windows phones.
Belfiore also mentioned that Microsoft will possibly have two premium Windows 10 Mobile smartphone released in 2015. These handsets would more than likely be the Lumia 950 and 950 XL, which are rumored to feature front-facing infrared cameras that will be instrumental when logging in without a password through Windows Hello.
Is it a Surface phone?
Interestingly Windows and Devices Terry Myerson also hinted at the the possibility of a Surface branded mobile device."We are going to focus on a few great devices and the most notable being that premium consumer category," explains Myerson, adding, "The direction we will head is the premium-branded lineup." I push him on whether that's a similar approach to Surface, and he claims "the goal is to have one Microsoft device family that plays this role in the Windows ecosystem."
Myerson never states the device will be the phone version of Microsoft Surface tablets but he suggest a similar approach. It just so happens that the Lumia 950 and its larger XL brother are said to feature the same Surface Pen technology that makes using tablets like the Surface 3 and Surface Pro 3 so unique.
Read More ...
Office Mobile apps arrive in time for Windows 10
Microsoft's celebration of Windows 10 has kicked up another notch with the news that the Office Mobile apps suite has been released.
The four apps that come under the Office umbrella (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote) have been completely revamped to adapt to the new touchscreen experience that is at the center of Windows 10.
Word has all the features that you've come to expect plus plenty of new options such as the ability to share and co-author documents, read mode, and Smart Lookup to bring documents to life with online elements.
Recommended charts makes it arrival on Excel, which is "ideal for smaller screens" and allows you to easily put data into charts. Various templates have also been added into the app that are specifically designed for mobile situations.
190 countries
Presentations have taken a step up thanks to a new Presenter View that has arrived inside PowerPoint to make giving your presentation easy and the laser pointer plus highlighting features add even more. OneNote completes the package.Office Mobile for tablets is available across 190 countries via the Windows Store and Office Mobile for phones arrives later this year when the mobile version is released into the wild. Office 2016 for desktops, meanwhile, will be released for Windows 7, 8 and 10 in the fall.
- Check out our Windows 10 live blog for all the latest news
Read More ...
Amazon's one-stop-shop Dash buttons open to all Prime users
We'll admit, we really thought Amazon's Dash Button was an April Fool's joke. It's nothing against the product (a small, wirelessly connected strip that allows you to order a specific product from Amazon with a single button press), it just seemed too strange to be true.
Well whatever we thought it originally, it turned out to be real.
Starting today Amazon has officially made its Dash Buttons available to the US Amazon Prime members for $4.99. (Unfortunately there's no word yet on when this time-saving device could come overseas, but it likely won't take long.)
So far, Amazon is selling Dash Buttons for Tide detergent, Cottonelle toilet paper, Glad trash bags along with 15 other household products from Keurig coffee cups and bottled water to baby diapers and razor blades. You'll be able to customize how much of a product is ordered and specify exactly what product you want - say, for instance, you want a specific blend of coffee instead of the generic stuff week after week.
Decide you don't need that fifth bundle of paper towels? Amazon sends you an alert on your phone before it places the order, allowing you to cancel it if you change your mind.
Via The Verge
Read More ...
Analysis: How Microsoft can reach and keep 1 billion Windows 10 users
Introduction
Terry Myerson, Microsoft's EVP of Operating Systems, took to the stage at the Build 2015 developer conference to lay down the company's cards on how it will convince 1 billion users to get on the Windows 10 train in the next two to three years.
To get anywhere near that goal, Microsoft will first need to secure a hefty level of developer support. So, it was a step in the right direction to hear that Windows 10 apps can be built using already-developed content coded in Java and C++ for Android and Objective C for the iOS ecosystem. But that alone won't attract 1 billion users: Windows 10 needs not just one but several killer apps of its own to reach 1 billion users, and more importantly, to keep them on the platform for years to come.
It's hard to predict exactly how developers will leverage Microsoft's new operating system to help build an audience that amounts to 1/7th the Earth's population. And of course, Microsoft is going to need much more than apps to get to that number.
The company has already given us an exciting glimpse of what is possible with Windows 10, such as HoloLens and Xbox One game streaming. But I have a few thoughts to add on that could help Microsoft on the road to 1 billion users for Windows 10.
Free upgrades forever
Let's be real here: no OS is at its prime on Day 1. There are usually bugs and features that underdeliver or don't seem to be fully explored. While you can count on the bugs being squashed quickly, some of the big, noteworthy features won't see much improvement or change until a year or two from the OS' initial release.
Once this happens with Windows 10.1, or whatever it will be called, it needs to be free to upgrade. Apple has made several of its recent Mac OS X upgrades available at no extra cost, and Microsoft needs to do the same with Windows 10. The moment it puts a price on software updates, it will make the goal of 1 billion users much harder to reach.
Custom Cortana voices
Choosing Cortana as the voice of its virtual assistant feature was an endearing nod to gamers. But even those who dig Halo might want something different every now and then. When I get bored with Siri's default voice, I like to turn her into a man with an Australian accent. You can do the same stuff with Cortana, but I'm looking for just a little more. How about a "Macho Man" Randy Savage voice? Yes, that'd be perfect.
Imagine: a child who loves Reading Rainbow having a virtual assistant voiced by LeVar Burton. An avid sports fan having the weather read aloud by Dan Patrick. Oh, the possibilities.
More Microsoft-made hardware
Microsoft struck onto something with its Surface line, which first launched alongside Windows 8. It's a well-built device that looks snazzy and is, arguably, the best way to experience Windows on a tablet. But why stop at a tablet?
There's little doubt that Microsoft will come out with some Lumia phones this year (fingers crossed for the Lumia 950 and 950 XL) and we know that the HoloLens is on its way, but I'm interested to see the company attempt its own fully-fledged laptop. I'm thinking something similar in craftsmanship to the Chromebook Pixel or the Macbook Pro, but with a design that highlights Windows 10 features, like the dedicated Cortana button on the Toshiba Satellite Radius 15. If it can make this hypothetical laptop as affordable as a Chromebook, Microsoft stands a better chance of reaching 1 billion users.
Make Windows 10 free for everyone
Windows 10 is a free upgrade, but only for users who are already running a genuine copy of Windows 7, 8 or 8.1. Even so, it's quite the deal, but Microsoft would make huge waves if it made Windows 10 free for everyone, so long as their machine can run it.
It's obviously not a good plan financially, since Microsoft and its licensed PC and laptop vendors are in the business of making money, and for that reason will almost certainly never happen. But the increased reach would allow Microsoft to easily exceed and keep 1 billion users. I'm playing the devil's advocate here, but a free version of Windows 10 with a few Live Tile ads could help to offset the loss of software revenue.
Get Windows 10 Mobile on a ton of phones
Android is the most popular mobile operating system for a reason: it's available globally on a bunch of phones ranging from the most affordable budget options to industry-leading flagship devices. Windows 10 Mobile could get off to a heck of a start if Microsoft partnered with a wide variety of manufacturer around the globe.
By releasing only one version of its mobile OS this fall, Microsoft will have already eliminated the possibility of software fragmentation, which has long been Android's biggest issue in maintaining a seamless experience across devices.
Have way more apps
Allowing developers to port over their pre-existing Android and iOS apps and games to Windows 10 gives the Windows Store plenty of reason to re-hoist the "Grand Opening" sign it used when Windows 8 launched.
And although some of those apps and games will be the same ones Android and iOS users were treated to years ago, Windows will finally stand on near-equal ground. The chance that the next big app or game craze could end up on Windows Store first has never been better.
PC to Xbox One streaming
Windows 10 enables gamers who own an Xbox One to stream their console games to the computer screen. This makes gaming possible anywhere your wireless internet blankets over.
But the next big feature people are asking for is the ability to stream PC games on Xbox One. One problem: the Xbox One currently doesn't support the keyboard and mouse control scheme. Xbox President Phil Spencer has teased that it's coming at some point, which could be the first step necessary to make PC game streaming possible.
It's a no-brainer for Microsoft, especially if it wants to remain competitive in the living room against the oncoming Steam Machines.
Conclusion
It's possible that Microsoft will reach its 1 billion users without doing any of this, but it has greater chances if it thinks outside the box with Windows 10.
As you can see in our review, we're quite pleased with Windows 10 in its current state. But knowing that this could very well be the last Windows ever, we're really counting on Microsoft to give its all this time.
But enough about what I think, what would you like to see Microsoft do to push Windows 10?
Read More ...
Updated: Yahoo is launching its new video messaging app Livetext tomorrow
Updated July 29: Yahoo's new Livetext messaging app is set to make its way to the US, UK, Canada, France and Germany starting tomorrow.
The app, which was launched in Honk Kong earlier this month, lets you send live (and silent) video one-on-one messages with an overlay of text, making it a rather unique offering over what is available today.
You can read more about the app below, as well as watch this video from Yahoo to get a better idea of how the app works.
Original story below...
You've probably not heard about Yahoo's newest messaging app, and you probably won't for a little while longer, as the Yahoo Livetext app is only available in Hong Kong right now.
Yahoo's new offering, which launched last week, gives a new spin to the usual messaging apps, allowing users to send a short live video with text, though without audio.
The app's description on the Hong Kong iTunes store says that Livetext is "...the most natural way to have 'real' conversations. It's live video texting, without sound. You will feel like your friends are right there with you."
"Livetext transforms simple conversations into rich, fun, and memorable experiences. It's an entirely new way to stay in touch."
A new way to message?
The app uses a cellular data connection or Wi-Fi, and is restricted to one-on-one conversations. As you enter text, a live video of where you are will appear, and as soon as your contact enters the chat, you'll be able to see their reaction.Audio has been removed, because Yahoo says, "it's rarely convenient in today's fast-paced world."
As we said earlier, though, the app is only available in Hong Kong, likely being tested in the region before Yahoo releases it worldwide.
And we do assume it will be released globally, because the app does support a large number of languages from around the world - we just have no idea where, yet.
- What's the differences between iOS 8 and iOS 9
Read More ...
Moto G (2015): where can I get it?
The new Moto G (2015) has finally been announced, and it's already on sale starting at $179. However, you won't see this phone on the shelves of your local carrier store any time soon.
Motorola's taking a trendy approach to how it sells its latest phones in the US: an exclusively online, unlocked offering through its own store and two key partnets. (Though, Motorola representatives didn't rule out carrier sales of the Moto G down the line during its recent announcement event.)
The Lenovo-owned firm has synced up with a two major retailers to help smooth the launch along. (Hint: one is named after a South American jungle.) But since this is more than likely a new way to buy a smartphone for the lot of you, here's where and how you can get your hands on Moto's latest budget phone.
Carriers get cut out this go 'round
As was mentioned above, the new Moto G starts at $179 in the US, and no carriers will, well, carry it. However, Motorola is offering up a $219 version with double the RAM and storage – up from the standard 1GB and 8GB, respectively.No matter which model you choose, you'll still score the 5-inch, 720p screen, 13-megapixel rear camera and LTE support. But if you want that extra space for apps and games, there's only one place to go...
Motorola – Unsurprisingly, probably the best place to pick up the new Moto G is straight from the source. This is the only way you'll be able to use the Moto Maker tool to customize your device, not to mention spring for the extra storage and RAM. Also, only Moto is selling the Flip Shell covers for $24.99 a pop.
Amazon – Of course the largest online retailer on Earth is involved in Moto's launch. However, don't expect much in the way of variety from the Kindle maker. The only options offered on Amazon.com are the basic all-white and all-black models.
Best Buy – Naturally, the nation's largest brick-and-mortar retailer is in on the fun, too. Unfortunately, your options through BestBuy.com are even fewer, with just the all-black Moto G on offer. If you want to try the Moto G before you buy it, the phone will hit Best Buy shelves on August 2.
*Motorola, Amazon and Best Buy all offer free shipping, so that might make your decision a little easier.
Which carrier do I choose?
This is an easy one to answer. The LTE chip within the Moto G's Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor is only tuned to support GSM, unlike that inside the Moto X Style (Pure Edition in the US), which can work on any carrier network.That leaves you with two options for carriers to buy SIM cards from and go in on plans with: AT&T and T-Mobile. We'll leave that decision to you, based on your coverage area. To help you over the fence one way or the other, here are the coverage maps for AT&T and T-Mobile.
- How about that OnePlus 2?
Read More ...
How to delete Windows 7, 8 after upgrading to Windows 10
Now that you've upgraded to Windows 10 and are ready to embrace Microsoft's computing future, you can free up valuable space on your drive for new files.
To do this, you can clean up your disk using the Disk Cleanup utility on Windows to remove old files, temporary internet files and empty out that overflying Recycle Bin. One of the biggest files that you can remove is your previous Windows installation.
Bear in mind that doing this means that you'll forever say "I do" to Cortana, for better or for worse, and that there is no going back to the past.
I would only recommend doing this after a month of using Windows 10. During your first month, Windows 10 is your friend with benefits – you'll get to enjoy Cortana, a new Start experience, more ways to multitask, Microsoft Edge, Continuum and the Action Center without fully having to commit. If you don't see a future with Windows 10, you can always rollback to your previous Windows install during this first month.
However, if it's love at first sight, let's proceed.
Scrub everything clean
You can launch Disk Cleanup through the Cortana search bar by typing in "Disk Cleanup" and selecting it from the list of results. As a digital assistant in Windows 10, Cortana can search local and OneDrive files, lookup content on the internet and retrieve your apps and settings.
Under the Disk Cleanup tab, you can select all the temporary files and begin cleaning up your digital clutter.
To free up space from your old Windows installation files, you can click on the "Clean up system files" button on the lower left. You'll be asked to select which drive partition for Windows to examine. I chose the "OS (C:)" drive.
Windows will scan your system, and repopulate the list of files to delete. You'll now be able to see "Previous Windows installation(s)" as an option in that list.
In my case, that amounted to 16.7GB that I was able to reclaim, but this will vary from system to system.
How to rollback in the future
Once you remove your previous Windows installation files, you won't be able to recover your system to the point just prior to your upgrade to Windows 10. However, there are still ways to get back to the version of Windows prior to your Windows 10 install.If your system shipped with recovery media like a DVD that contains the operating system, pre-installed software and the necessary drivers, you can use that to recover your system.
If you made a recovery media prior to upgrading to Windows 10, you can use that to downgrade in the future. A recovery media is similar to the DVD that shipped on older systems. You can create a recovery media on Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 by using a USB drive or a DVD, but you'll need to do that prior to upgrading to Windows 10.
If you already upgraded to Windows 10 but don't have any recovery media available, there are two options you can take.
The first option is to immediately downgrade to your old version of Windows. You can do this by going to Settings, selecting Update and Security and going to Recovery. You'll need to be plugged into a power source, and Windows 10 makes it painlessly easy to downgrade.
Once you downgrade, you can create your own recovery media, and then upgrade again. It's always a safe Plan B to have a recovery media on hand.
The second option is to call your manufacturer. If you bought a notebook from Dell, HP Lenovo or any of the leading manufacturers, you can pay to have recovery media shipped to you. This route will cost you a little bit of money, but it will save you the hassle of having to downgrade just to upgrade again.
Cautions
If you're looking to downgrade using recovery media in the future, you'll also need to back up your personal files. Likely, the recovery media will just wipe your system to install a factory image. This means the result you end up with will be a fresh copy of Windows 7, 8 or 8.1, like when you first powered on your PC when you took it out of the box.Downgrading within a month through the Windows 10 recovery option will preserve your personal files, but you only have a month to do so.
- Read our Windows 10 review
Read More ...
How to get Windows 10 if it won't install
Windows 10 is finally out in the wild, but most users are finding it incredibly easy to download and then install the new OS.
Some PC owners, for one reason or another, haven't been enjoying the automatic update in all its glory and there's no need to fret if you're in this camp as it's very easy to get Windows 10 in your life right now.
Before anything else, you should check whether Windows Update has the ability to download and install update automatically. This takes a few simple steps:
- Open Windows Update by positioning the mouse pointer in the bottom right corner of the screen and then moving it up. After this click Settings > Change PC settings > Update and recovery.
- Next, click on "choose how updates get installed" and on the next page choose the relevant option under Important updates.
- From there choose "give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates" check box from under the Recommended updates section
- Under Microsoft Update then choose the "give me updates for other Microsoft products when I update Windows" check box and click "Apply."
Via: Windows Central
Read More ...
Windows 10 has a Start menu bug
Windows 10 launch day was always going to be a day to remember and now even the doom mongers can celebrate with a start menu issue to savour.
First reported by The Register, the Windows 10 Start menu issue causes those users with more than 512 application shortcuts to suffer from missing entries with a coder seemingly thinking that 512 would be more than enough space.
"I had a little over 500 apps listed and after a secure reboot all my start menu links were gone and they're missing now from all apps, too. There is no way to get Windows to recognise them again. Very annoying bug. I brought down the number under 500 by de-installing some stuff, but it still doesn't work," complained one user.
Microsoft Program Manager Arunjeet Singh later tweeted that users could find out if they are one of the unlucky few by doing the following:
- Bring up Start menu and search for Windows powershell
- Run Windows Powershell
- Run the command "Get-StartApps | measure" (without the quotes) in the command window.
Using a third party Start menu program reportedly works around this issue and Microsoft is reportedly working on a fix to address it.
- Check out our Windows 10 live blog for the latest news
Read More ...
How to run old programs on Windows 10
Introduction
With newer versions of any operating system comes the same old question: Will I be able to run my old software on it? Should I? The answer is sometimes yes, sometimes no and often “it depends on several factors.” The release of Windows 10 falls into the latter category.
Microsoft’s Windows products are generally backwards compatible. A Windows operating system will generally be able to run software written for its immediate predecessor. Windows 7 could use Windows Vista programs for example.
The vast majority of programs that ran on Windows 7 and Windows 8 will continue to work on Windows 10, with the exception of Windows Media Center, which is being dropped completely. Some programs written for even older versions of Windows may work on Windows 10 without an issue. For other pieces of software, it may take some additional work to get it up and running.
Why you should care
Unless your computer is brand new, chances are you may have some outdated software or files on it. It may be old Microsoft Word files with term papers. An old game like Sim City or Oregon Trail may be installed on your computer. Maybe you keep putting off upgrading Microsoft Office because you like the version you currently have. No matter the reason, these older programs have to be considered if you intend to use them on Windows 10. Upgrading the operating system has the potential to make them unreadable, making them unable to run on your computer post-upgrade.
Find out if you need to even worry
The webpage offers users an opportunity to scan their computers and attached Windows devices to see if their content will continue to work on Windows 10.
Assuming the computer meets the system requirements, any software that will not work after downloading will appear on a list. Depending on the results, your old files may be safe, require an update or may require assistance to run.
Use the compatibility software already available
The various Windows operating systems will appear, depending on the software. On Windows 7, this feature goes all the way back to Windows 95 for some programs. This 20-year-old format is still popular among some Windows fans.
Running an app on compatibility mode has traditionally been a fairly simple process. Right click on the app. Select properties. Click the Compatibility tab. Under the banner, a checkbox will appear next to the text “Run this program in compatibility mode for:” with the options in a drop down menu.
Try Windows Virtual PC
Windows 10 however is compatible with Microsoft Virtual PC, a Microsoft’s virtualization software that allows Windows users to run multiple versions of Windows. This free download is designed with productivity applications in mind, but since it allows users to run operating systems all the way back to Windows XP, chances are many of your older programs.
Installation can be done from the Microsoft Download Center. Download it, boot it. Accept the license agreement if you wish to continue. Allow it to run its setup, following the recommendations unless you would prefer to customize it.
A non-Windows-based option
The advantage here is the ability to run a program in the operating system that it was designed for in the first place. VirtualBox and VMWare are some of the more common options available and is accessible for Windows, Mac and Linux users. (Mac users can also use Boot Camp and Parallels.) The process is similar to installing Windows Virtual PC. Download it, accept the license agreements and get started.
Don't worry about Office files
When working in any of these programs simply remember to save in a compatible format. Newer versions of Microsoft Office also allow you to run a computability check. Click on the capability report button on the save window. Based on the results you will have the option to fix or ignore any possible issues. Be sure to use the “Open with…” option with a right click to make sure that the older file opens in your preferred program.
Read More ...
Minecraft Windows 10 edition beta is now live
While Microsoft has begun upgrading its users to Windows 10 for free today, Minecraft publisher Majong will also be giving its users a chance to get Minecraft Windows 10 edition beta for free as well.
If you already own Minecraft on PC or even Mac and you've upgraded your PC Windows 10, you'll be able to claim your free copy of the game by signing into your Majong account on its website and clicking the "Redeem" button.
You'll then be given a token and taken to a Microsoft redemption page from where you'll be able to download the beta.
The new Minecraft beta is public for anyone who has Windows 10, so if you don't already own Minecraft, you can purchase it for $10, and as with any beta, you'll be entitled to future updates.
But before you download the beta, you should note that the beta is not compatible with older versions of Minecraft, so you own't be able to access any of your old worlds.
What's new?
Currently, the beta supports single-player creative and survival modes, as well as multiplayer with others playing the beta, while Pocket Edition mulitplayer support will be added in an update later.While the Windows 10 beta offers no major differences in terms of gameplay, there is one big feature included - Xbox controller and touch input support.
This basically means you'll be able to switch between controller, touch input and keyboard and mouse in-game, depending on your play style.
You'll also be able to record in-game moments using Xbox Live GameDVR feature through Windows 10, and provide feedback on the game during beta as well.
- Here's our thoughts on Windows 10
Read More ...
Updated: 22 best PC games: the must-play titles you can't afford to miss
Introduction
The PC is either making a comeback or never went away in the first place, depending on who you ask.
Whichever camp you're in, a deluge of triple-A titles, virtual reality and (whisper it) decent console ports make picking the PC over the Xbox One or PS4 a no-brainer. Thanks to the popularity of Valve's Steam platform, finding and downloading the best PC games is easier than ever before.
Whether you're a mouse-and-keyboard diehard who mutters "boom, headshot!" in their sleep, or a joypad-wielding adrenaline junkie, the PC has no shortage of blockbuster and indie titles to help you waste away the hours.
We've rounded up the best PC games out there today. If you don't agree, let us know in the comments below..
PC games on our radar
Torment: Tides of Numanera
If Pillars of Eternity (which currently sits fourth in our list of Best PC Games) whet your appetite for old-school RPGs, Torment: Tides of Numenera looks set to continue the nostalgia-fest. The spiritual successor to Planescape Tournament (it's being written by that game's designer, Colin McComb), Tides broke the then-Kickstarter record for surpassing a million dollars in funding in just seven hours. Based on the pen-and-paper game Numenera, which is set a billion years in the future, expect Tides to be heavily story-driven and terrific to look at thanks to its living and breathing environments set in the Ninth World.
Expected: 2015
Star Wars: Battlefront
"Next-gen Star Wars": four words that never fail to get gamers with even the vaguest interest in George Lucas's universe quivering like an excited wookie. That the studio behind the Star Wars: Battlefront reboot is Dice, the developer behind the Battlefield series, is even more reason for celebration. Though it's sensible to be wary of the scripted (albeit stunning) gameplay footage shown off at E3, players who dived into the recent Closed Alpha have reported a game very close in feeling to Battlefield 4 - though much faster-paced - and with lightsabers. Obviously.
Expected: 2015
Fallout: 4
Heading to PC and consoles on November 10, Bethesda's Fallout 4 swaps Fallout 3's post-nuclear wasteland for, er, a post-nuclear Boston. Screenshots of the game from E3 featured robots, massive guns, a dodgily rendered dog, jetpacks, and what appears to be a weapon modding system. Speaking of which, PC modders are already planning ahead: Fallout 3 mod creator Zealotlee has announced his intention to import the Rail Rifle into Fallout 4. Sure, Fallout mods are coming to consoles this time around, but it's one of many areas where the PC is going to lead the way.
Expected: 2015
Cuphead
Few games are unique these days, but Studio MDHR's charming run and gun title Cuphead just might be deserving of the label. Featuring a visual art style borrowed from 1930s Disney cartoons (think Mickey Mouse in Steamboat Willie), it's a romantic blend of old and new-era entertainment. Adorable and even a bit disturbing due to its screen-filling bosses (most of which are drawn with deranged facial expressions), Cuphead has us thirsty for more.Expected: 2015
DOOM
Bethesda's upcoming DOOM reboot is taking id Software's classic FPS back to its frenetic roots. Shown off at E3, early gameplay footage running on id Tech 6's game engine was nothing short of gore-tactic. Enemies can be blown into chunks with the regular assortment of high-powered shotguns, rifles and laser-powered weapons, and the chainsaw has made a particularly grusome return.Expected: 2016
Unreal Tournament
One of the most celebrated arena-shooters of all time, Unreal Tournament brushed Quake 3 aside to claim the online shooter crown back in 1999. It's remained a firm favourite with FPS fans ever since, leading to a remake being announced in 2014. Developed in Epic Games' Unreal Engine 4, Unreal Tournament brings back classic weapons including the Flak Canon, Pulse Rifle and Mini-Gun. The first high-resolution map, Outpost 23, looks nothing short of stunning and is sure to give UT die-hards m-m-m-m-monster thrills.Expected: Out now (Pre-alpha), Final TBC
1. Cities: Skylines
Cities: Skylines is SimCity updated for the modern era, proving a breath of fresh air for would-be mayors. Its core gameplay lets you dig deep into the various aspects of running a sprawling virtual city - from economics to macro and micro management and land planning. But Cities: Skylines really shines when it comes to mods, which allow you to create custom maps, assets and tools to share with other online players.
2. Dragon Age: Inquisition
Dragon Age: Inquisition places you in the heart of a huge, vibrant world on a far greater scale than its predecessors, and it does an excellent job of making you feel in command. Packing in a huge 90 hours (and the rest) of gameplay into its storyline, Inquisition's smart dialogue, compelling plot, savvy progression system and massive sandbox world will have you engrossed for months on end. Think the Elder Scrolls games meets the Diablo franchise and you're halfway there.
3. Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft
A card game from the makers of World of Warcraft, Hearthstone is easy to learn, but hard to master. Like Blizzard's famous MMO, Hearthstone combines classes, characters and a bit of tactical luck when throwing you into battle against computerised or online opponents. Stick with it and you'll be rewarded by its tactical, deep gameplay. Though available on iOS and Android, its low system requirements, excellent presentation and great sound effects mean it's best experienced on the PC.
4. Pillars of Eternity
Pillars of Eternity is a sprawling RPG in the vein of Baldaur's Gate or Icewind Dale that combines highly detailed technical combat with hundreds of hours of gameplay. It has refreshingly low system requirements on the PC but still looks incredible thanks to its simple but effective art style, which harks back to those aforementioned isometric fantasy RPGs of the 2000s. But it's not all about nostalgia: Pillars of Eternity has enough interesting characters, baddies and clever writing to make it a modern classic of its own.
5. Grand Theft Auto V
Grand Theft Auto V is one of the most anticipated console ports to ever hit the PC. You probably didn't need telling twice to head back into Los Santos's hugely detailed and interactive world, but it's ten times more fun with the PC's richer graphics and smooth 60 frames per second gameplay. Once you're done with its 31-hour storyline or had your fill blazing around the city causing chaos, an ever expanding list of GTA V mods - from fine tuning cars or throwing vehicles around with a Gravity Gun - are bound to keep you entertained for some time.
6. Alien: Isolation
Set in the future but based on the past, Alien: Isolation is the suspense-packed game that Alien fans have been crying out for. Inspired by the first Alien movie, Isolation is first and foremost a stealth game that pits you against an Alien on the Nostromo deep into space. A distinct lack of weaponry, particularly excellent graphics on high-end PCs and clever AI all help ramp up the dread, leaving you to quiver when turning every corner.
7. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive remains a fantastic update to a timeless classic that continues to live on thanks to its vast online communities. A well-rounded tactical shooter that builds on the simple Terrorists vs Counter-Terrorists gameplay mechanics of Counter-Strike 1.6 and Counter-Strike: Source, CS: GO updates classic maps such as Italy and Dust while keeping adding new modes in Arms Race and Demolition. Simpler than Battlefield but more nuanced than the Call of Duty franchise, it's a shooter for those who like to run, gun and think - if only a little bit.
8. Far Cry 4
Ubisoft's latest shooter marks Far Cry's most beautiful outing yet. Its graphically-rich world is eye-popping on high-end PCs, and you'll see plenty of it thanks to a 30+ hour-long campaign. Aside from the main campaign, there are plenty of things to do in Kyrat - from hostage rescue and assassination missions to escort quests, resource collecting and, of course, avoiding being killed by bullets or rampaging animals. Whether you're tearing across the savanna in a rickety car or slinging grenades around like tennis balls, survival has never been such a blast.
9. FTL: Faster Than Light
FTL (Faster Than Light) puts you command of running a spaceship and looking after its crew. Featuring a complex game mechanism that involves maintaining weapons, engines, shields and other areas, in addition to tactical combat, FTL can get extremely in-depth over time. Whether you're ordering your crew to quite literally put out fires on deck in the heat of battle, or are navigating through asteroid fields, FTL is as much about long-term progression and satisfaction as it is quick fixes. Don't let its indie stylings fool you: this is game with untold depth and scary levels of addictiveness.
10. Grim Fandango Remastered
A 90s classic brought back to life (unlike its main protagonist), Grim Fandango Remastered is a successful attempt at reviving one of the PC's best adventure games of all time. Combining writing that matches the funniest dark comedies with clever puzzles and a still-impressive art style, Grim Fandango was the most entertaining work of art to take place in a Mexican setting for years until Breaking Bad came along. Now with updated graphics, sound and better controls, Manna Calavera's adventure has never looked so good.
11. Skyrim
Four years after its initial release, Skyrim is going as strong as ever thanks to a vast selection of mods and high-resolution texture packs. Even if you're only interested in playing the vanilla version of the RPG, it offers more than 100 hours of gameplay.
Throw in three action packs DLC expansion packs (Dawnguard, Hearthfire and Dragonborn), and it lasts even longer. That Skyrim has been compared to graphically superior but similar RPG blockbuster The Witcher 3 is testament to its enduring popularity. Step into Skyrim and you too can be an adventurer - just try not to take an arrow in the knee.
12. DayZ
Originally launched as an Arma II mod, DayZ is a standalone zombie shooter with a difference. Not only do you have to mind the undead when wandering around its sprawling maps, but other online players too. Armed with a lead pipe and carrying nothing but a backpack and a flashlight, you'll need wits and guile to survive.
Pretty much the opposite of adrenaline-packed zombie fests such as Left4Dead, you'll spent half of the time evading the undead and the other using a shovel to fend off any humans who are bent on trying to steal your last box of matches. And take it from us - they will try.
13. Minecraft
The phrase "build it, and they will come" quite literally rings true when it comes to Minecraft, the game that has been bought by more than 19 million people. The survival-themed sandbox RPG lets players build their own worlds or explore others, using the game's multiple block types to construct anything from small huts to extravagant castles and beyond.
Minecraft's ultimate appeal revolves around its open-ended nature. Creative types can build and destroy to their hearts' content, while solo players can concentrate on not being eaten by the zombie hordes that emerge at night. A modern-day classic that has spawned its own genre, it's not to be missed.
14. The Orange Box
The Orange Box may be showing its age, but it remains a must-play collection of games - particularly for FPS fans. Half-Life 2, technically still the most recent game in Valve's franchise (excluding its Episode 1 and 2 add-ons), remains a modern masterpiece and is famed for being the first game to intelligently apply physics to its puzzles and combat set-pieces.
The collection's other titles aren't too shabby either: Portal takes gravity-based puzzles to the extreme by equipping the player with the Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device (also known as the Portal Gun), which places two portals for objects to pass through, while Team Fortress 2 continues to go from strength-to-strength thanks to the introduction of custom gear and well-balanced team combat.
15. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Gorgeous graphics? Check. Huge explorable environments? Check. Enthralling combat? Of course. The Witcher 3 stands tall as one of the most ambitious open-world RPGs yet, combining Skyrim's unrestrained epicness with Grand Theft Auto 5's scale. While the game has been criticised for its inventory niggles, less-than-enthralling plot and not quite matching the graphics shown in its promo materials, it's so ambitious and jam-packed with detail that the package lives up to the hype. Huge, beautiful and an absolute time-sink, you'll want to scour every inch of The Witcher 3's glorious world.
16. Project CARS
Project CARS is a racing simulator that guns for realism without leaving excitement back in the pit stop, as some racers tend to do. Slightly Mad Studios' graphically-stunning title has enough car customisation and handling options to keep the keenest of petrol heads happy. Car types on show range from F1 to road, retro, kart, Le Mans, GT and more. Throw in realistic weather effects and driving assistance by Le Mans driver Ben Collins - formerly BBC Top Gear's Stig - and the smell of burning rubber will be floating up your nostrils in no time.
17. Elite: Dangerous
Modelled after the 1984 game Elite, Elite: Dangerous is one of the most ambitious space sims around. Featuring an in-game galaxy based on the real Milky Way (how's 400 billion stars for depth?), the ultimate goal is to advance your rankings to Elite status by levelling up combat, trading and exploration.
Starting out with a rickety ship and 1,000 credits in your space suit's back pocket, you'll need to turn to piracy, trading, exploring, mining or bounty hunting to rise through the intergalactic ranks. Doing so takes time and requires serious graft, but the experience provides a level of satisfaction that few other titles can match. And then there's the Oculus Rift...
18. Frozen Cortex
Frozen Cortex is a tactical future sports game with oodles of depth and heaps of style. Players take turns to commandeer teams of five robots across randomly generated maps, scoring points by successfully carrying or passing the ball to the end line. Tactically demanding and Chess-like in execution, it can be exhilarating to watch the action unfold as robots play out defensive or offensive runs depending on their commander's style of play.
There's more than a shade of American Football to it, with online bouts providing the biggest thrills as you bluff and double bluff your way through human opponents to earn new robots (and new abilities) as you progress. As stylish as it is clever, Frozen Cortex's art style makes it a particular delight for anyone old enough to remember the Amiga classic, Speedball 2.
19. Ori and the Blind Forest
Described as "achingly beautiful" by Unity Engine boss John Riccitiello, Ori and the Blind Forest borrows its game mechanics from old-school 2D games such as Metroid and Castlevania while adding a modern twist. If any word can describe Ori's atmospheric world, it's alive. You'll have to think fast and use new abilities gained along the way to bash, stop and manoeuvre your way through its gorgeous locations, and with no automatic saving system or easy difficulty level, it's no walk in the park. As satisfying to master as it is to look at, Ori and the Blind Forest will re-open your eyes to what 2D games still have to offer.
20. Grow Home
Grow Home is an experimental PC platformer that looks like an "indie" game but is in fact the latest release from Rayman developer Ubisoft. Similarly charming thanks to its distinctive 3D art style, you play as BUD, the game's robot protagonist, whose main job is harvest seeds and grow a beanstalk-like 'Star Plant' by grabbing its branches and connecting them to nearby floating islands in the sky.
There's a fair bit of trial-and-error involved, and while having to climb all the way back up again after a fall is frustrating, grabbing a passing vine at the last minute by the tips of your fingers can be equally as exhilarating. The ability to move BUD's arms and legs independently helps put you in control - just try not to get them tangled up. Because you will - a lot.
21. Sunless Sea
A 2D exploration game set on a boat can't be that creepy, right? Wrong. More gothic than a Cradle of Filth concert, Sunless Sea throws all manners of joyless themes your way: death, insanity and cannibalism to name a few. Sailing from port-to-port in the monster-filled underworld of Fallen London, you'll have to manage fuel and supplies while battling sentient icebergs, Zee-beasts and other water-dwelling nasties to remain afloat. Top-notch writing gives Sunless Sea an absorbing storyline that's up there with history's best text-based adventures.
22. Rocket League
Already familiar to millions before they've played a played a second of it, Rocket League turns the age old game of football (or soccer, depending) on its head. Played with rocket-propelled cars in futuristic low-gravity environments, the aim is simple: knock the ball into the opposing team's goal. Doing so is harder said than done because there could be up to three cars on the opposing team trying to steal the ball off you - or ram you into submission - at any one time. Gorgeous to look, simple to learn but difficult to master, Rocket League is the surprise smash hit of 2015 - and a wonderfully addictive one at that.
Read: 8 real-life footballers in Rocket League: which one are you?
Read More ...
Microsoft sets a date for Windows 10 Enterprise availability
Even though consumers are able to upgrade to Windows 10 Home and Pro editions on Wednesday, business customers will still have to wait a little while longer for Windows 10 Enterprise.
Fortunately, the wait ends this weekend, as the Enterprise edition of Microsoft's new operating system will be available to Software Assurance customers to download starting Saturday, August 1. Microsoft did not specify the exact time that the update will appear on its servers.
The Enterprise advantage
Windows 10 Enterprise delivers more flexibility for IT management. Users on the consumer versions of Windows 10 are forced to download all the software patches, security fixes and latest OS features as Microsoft makes them available through Windows Update.This is a strategy that Microsoft is using to promote Windows as a service to give users a consistent user experience with the newest features as long as they're connected to the internet, and it's not unlike what Google is doing with Chrome OS.
However, to ensure software compatibility and business continuity, Microsoft will allow IT administrators greater flexibility in delaying and postponing non-critical updates. The Enterprise edition will also not come with the new Microsoft Edge browser, opting to stick to the familiar Internet Explorer of yore.
IT administrators can start testing Windows 10 Enterprise now with a 90-day evaluation.
"To support customer piloting and deployment, the latest service packs for System Center 2012 Configuration Manager and System Center 2012 R2 Configuration Manager include support for Windows 10 with existing Configuration Manager features, allowing customers to adopt Windows 10 while using their existing management infrastructure," said Jim Alkove, Corporate Vice President at Microsoft, in a statement.
A Technical Preview 2 of the System Center Configuration Manager will be available later this year in the fourth quarter.
Features for the enterprise
Microsoft is also leveraging other assets with Windows 10 for enterprise customers, including the ability to join Azure Active Directory, a unified Mobile Device Management platform and streamlined in-place upgrades that will replace the "wipe and replace" deployments of the past.For business end-users, Microsoft is promoting benefits like Continuum for 2-in-1 hybrid laptop owners, natural language interactions with inking and Cortana for voice input and a familiar experience with a new Start menu.
- Read our continuing coverage of the Windows 10 launch
Read More ...
9 best VR games: best virtual reality games for PC and mobile
Introduction
Picking the best VR games at the moment is tricky because many of the best VR experiences aren't the best games, and vice-versa. For example, much as we love Team Fortress 2, you don't half get motion sick running at the scout's speed in VR.
Other experiences are like hands-off coaster rides - Sony's The Deep, for example - which one would hardly want to call games. Oculus' story studio takes that one step further, employing ex-Pixar staff to create bespoke first-person VR entertainment.
Even those games that are good fun are often just demos, for products that will be released when the Rift, Vive and the rest are all on sale. We've picked the five games we're most excited about seeing and the 10 games that we think are best now. If you disagree, let us know in the comments.
VR games on our radar
Eve: Valkyrie
What started out as a spectacular tech demo for the developers of Eve: Online has rapidly morphed into a full project that's entirely focused on squad-based dogfighting in deep space.
Though the game is far narrower than Star Citizen and Elite: Dangerous, it promises to be a classic multiplayer experience, with a Call of Duty-style rank progression that allows you to unlock more ships, weapons and equipment the better that you do
That focus on combat allows the game to be much less realistic and more visceral than its competitors - and potentially much more fun.
Star Citizen
While Eve: Valkyrie looks to have the most promising combat, Star Citizen is hoping to have the most comprehensive space experience.
As an unofficial follow-up to the Wing Commander series, the game is promising to combine gutsy first-person shooting on space stations and planets, exploration of its crazy-large universe in a variety of hand-crafted spaceships, and a huge storyline with a cast of movie stars.
The VR experience is still unclear, but will probably work along the lines of Elite's - head-tracking, whilst you use a joystick or gamepad to control your craft.
Dreadhalls
No platform is complete without a pant-wetting horror experience and Dreadhalls is planning to provide that. Along the lines of Amnesia, you're an unarmed explorer in a series of procedurally-generated tunnels attempting to simply find your way to the exit.
Sadly, the maze is filled with a variety of monsters, like gargoyles that only move when you're not watching, and spooky little girls. Objects in the maze can help you, but ultimately it's a game about hiding and running away. For a more involved dungeon crawling game, Oculus' own Hero Battle sounds promising.
Robinson: The Journey
There are few details on Crytek's first VR game yet, but given the firm's history we can be assured that it'll be outrageously beautiful with a terrible story.
You're playing as a small boy who's crashlanded on an alien planet that seems to be inhabited by dinosaurs. It's notable that Crytek has been separately showing off a VR demo in a similarly lush jungle where you're hiding out in a T-Rex nest as various dinosaurs menace you.
Crytek promises that "players will become pioneers by interacting with the rich ecosystem around them and unearthing incredible secrets at every turn."
Technolust
The biggest promise of VR is in story-driven games like Technolust. It's a puzzle and mystery game, where you explore this brave new world, finding clues and objects to move the plot forward.
Here, you're in a near-future cyberpunk world where big business has taken over. You can choose to join the resistance and battle large corporations, pop to the arcade to experience new worlds, or just stay at home and watch TV with your AI. This could be the nearest thing we get to Bladerunner - until they adapt it for VR, that is.
Rigs: Mechanized Combat League
Sony's first in-house developed VR game is being made by Guerilla Games and it's going to be exclusive to Project Morpheus.
It's a multiplayer sports 3v3 game, where players climb into highly mobile mech suits and attempt to score goals with glowing balls of energy. Of course, your robots have lasers, rockets and plasma cannons, which means you'll also need jump jets to avoid getting killed all the time.
It's looking absolutely spectacular, and should follow Titanfall in achieving modest success.
1. Elite: Dangerous
It's been over thirty years since the first Elite was released and original creator David Braben has finally got around to making a sequel (i.e. got the rights back.)
Elite: Dangerous takes the elements of the first game - trading, exploration and combat in a huge procedurally-generated universe - and updates them, so that you can do all those things in an accurate representation of our galaxy in the future.
The game has also added massively-multiplayer gameplay, and industry-standard VR. Sitting in a cockpit in Elite and looking around feel utterly real, and well worth it.
2. Euro Truck Simulator 2
Ever wanted to deliver frozen chickens from Innsbruck to Bad Kissingen in an eighteen wheeler? Someone, who should probably be using their genius for the betterment of mankind, has perfectly replicated the art of being a truck driver, letting players fulfil their long-haul longings.
The VR experience has been updated to work well with the Oculus DK2 and lets you look all around your cab, as well lean out of the window to look behind you. You'll still crash your semi into the hard shoulder on a regular basis, but that's your fault, not the game's.
3. Alien Isolation
Creative Assembly's masterful conversion of the Alien movie into a survival game was an unexpected success of last year, allowing players to take the role of Ripley's daughter, attempting to survive another xenomorph event and discover what happened to her mother.
The long-promised Oculus support wasn't released with the game, but exists in the game's code and has been reimplemented by modders. It makes for an utterly terrifying and hardcore experience, with players trying to stealth their way through the grimpunk space station, but it's mostly short-lived due to the alien's efficiency.
4. Surgeon Simulator 2013
Just like Alien Isolation, there are aliens in Surgeon Simulator 2013, but this time you're the one taking them to pieces.
One of the few comedy games of recent years, SS13 is all about your incompetence in performing advanced surgery (including heart and brain transplants), which is only exacerbated by the VR interface.
The game supports VR natively in Oculus Rift and uses Razer Hydras to allow you to attempt heart transplants.
5. Assetto Corsa
I've never really been a petrolhead - though I do know that red ones go faster - so I can't comment on how good a game Assetto Corsa is.
Suffice to say that my Petrolhead friends say it's one of the best car games out there, and the reviews agree. The key point is its moddability, which has allowed gamers to add all sorts of fancy new cars and tracks onto its superb driving system.
It supports Oculus natively and, like Elite, it makes perfect sense to be able to look around when racing, whether rallying or in an F1.
6. Dear Esther
VR is wonderful at providing a sense of presence in a world - but not so good, as yet, at interacting with it. Which is perfect for 'walking simulators' like this.
Dear Esther is an exploration game, where you walk all over a remote Scottish island, plumbing its depths and heights, as your character whinges about his life. It may sound like an art-house adaption of a J.G. Ballard novel, but the game is utterly beautiful to wander.
7. Shufflepuck Cantina Deluxe VR
The unofficial sequel to 1989's Shufflepuck Cafe takes the physical game of Shufflepuck (AKA Air Hockey) to the furthest possible point.
Shufflepuck Cantina takes place in an interstellar casino, where you play against a charismatic range of aliens and robots with a huge array of special moves on a range of bizarre tables.
The casino is just charming to wander, packed with unearthly sights and detail, and fun challengers to natter to. Warning: you'll need to shut your eyes for the control-free intro, as it's utterly nausea-inducing.
8. Dying Light
The unofficial follow-up to Dead Island from the creators of the same game was a surprisingly good take on the zombie survival action game, mingled with gruesome melee combat, fun parkour and a ton of other bits nicked from Dead Rising.
The VR version is still a bit shonky - the menus and buttons are unreadable and the camera control needs work - but it's a wonderful world to wander around, before zombies tear you apart. There will almost certainly be a separate VR release when the Vive and Oculus launch.
9. Subnautica
Subnautica looks like it should be a simple diving game - but then you realise you don't recognise any of the 'fish'... or the sky or the sun.
It's actually a survival game on a distant ocean world, where you have to craft equipment, pilot submarines, and terraform the aquatic undersea for humankind - whilst surviving hostile wildlife, volcanoes, and aircraft-sized jellyfish. It's still in Early Access, so the Oculus Rift support is limited but effective.
Read More ...
Review: HP ProDesk 405 G2
Introduction and performance
Desktop computers remain pretty much the norm in the business segment where a permanent PC is often preferred to a laptop for practical and financial reasons. Sure, laptops can be seen as being more versatile but they are also more expensive, have fewer expansion capabilities and are usually more difficult to repair. The market is currently dominated by HP and Lenovo with ultra-small form factors (the Intel NUC and the Compute Stick being two of the more well-known ones) becoming more popular.HP's ProDesk range is part of the company's ambitious plan to reinvent itself meaningfully. The firm did well with the HP 260 G1, a great looking, keenly priced device that impressed us when we reviewed it earlier this month.
We're looking at another model from that family today, the ProDesk 405 G2, a micro-tower computer that costs £199.98 at Ebuyer, which provided us with the review sample, but can be had for just £99.98 once you trade in a computer that comes with Windows XP (you can find out more about the trade in terms and conditions on HP's website).
Both Nigel O'Hara and Laptopsdirect sell it for cheaper. The promotion ends on July 31, 2015, but it is likely that it will be prolonged seeing as how Windows 10 has just been launched. Note that you can trade in up to 50 computers.
Design
The ProDesk 405 G2 reminds us of the Lenovo ThinkCentre E50, its main competitor in this price range. Like the latter, it is a bog standard base unit with one 5.25-inch accessible bay that contains an optical drive. We like the shingled-slate design of the front, and this is a smart distinctive touch.Other than the HP logo, there's two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 ports in the front plus two audio ports. At the back are two extra USB 2.0 ports, four legacy ports (including VGA, PS2 and Serial), four audio ports, a DisplayPort and an Ethernet connection.
Opening the case couldn't be easier, and is simply a matter of undoing one screw by hand – the tool-less chassis is great for whoever wants to peep inside the computer, but more of a worry for the system administrator who might be concerned about insider threats or missing components.
At 16.5 x 33.9 x 35.5cm and measuring well under 6Kg, this desktop PC can be easily moved around and is a good compromise for anyone looking for a relatively small, portable device that can still be updated.
Speaking of upgradability, the ProDesk 405 G2 can accommodate three full height PCIe (x1) and one full height PCIe (x16) cards. There's also one available 3.5-inch hard disk drive bay.
Tech spec
Insider the base unit is an MSI MS-7938 motherboard with an AMD A8-6510 APU at its heart. That processor is usually found in laptops and should perform on par with Intel's Core i3 or Pentium CPUs (Haswell and prior architectures). It has four cores clocked at 2.4GHz, 2MB cache and an integrated Radeon HD8400 GPU. The latter is powerful enough to drive two displays and for the occasional spot of light gaming.
The fact that it dissipates only 15W explains why the heat sink fan covering it is so small compared to what we're accustomed to seeing on other models.
There's also a 4GB DDR3 SDRAM memory module in one memory bank, allowing the user to upgrade to 8GB if needed. The rest of the specification list includes a 500GB HDD (a 7200RPM model, a rarity at this price and a welcome improvement on the 5400RPM drives usually found in entry level PCs), DTS Sound+ audio management technology, HD audio with Realtek ALC221, GbE connectivity and a DVD writer along with a 180W PSU. The low PSU wattage means that you won't be able to add a powerful graphics card to this machine should you want to do that.
A standard keyboard and mouse complete the package.
A clear indication of this PC's target audience comes from the fact that it is bundled with both Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 allowing businesses to choose which one to embrace. And of course you will be able to upgrade to Windows 10 for free.
Surprisingly perhaps, HP has bundled a number of applications that some could label as bloatware: CyberLink Power2Go, PowerDVD BD Edition and Foxit Phantom PDF Express. As expected, HP also throws in some of its own apps, namely Recovery Disc Creator, Recovery Manager, PageLift, File Sanitizer and so forth.
Performance
As for benchmarks, we were pleasantly surprised by what we saw considering that upgrading to this computer could cost less than £100. We recorded the following benchmarks, and the scores were slightly higher than the HP 260 G1 in most cases as a comparison:- GeekBench: 1261 and 2963 (single and multi-core)
- PCMark 8: 1685 (Home); 1912 (Work); 1417 (Creative)
- 3DMark: 21716 (Home); 2597 (Cloud Gate); 403 (Fire Strike)
- Cinebench 15: 141 (CPU); 14.83 (GPU)
Verdict
The HP ProDesk 405 G2 hit all the right spots – it is hard to dislike this machine, especially if you plan to upgrade from Windows XP. It is a well-designed personal computer, and one that shows the wealth of design experience that HP carries.We liked
There's plenty to love about the ProDesk. It is small enough to be moved around easily, it has plenty of expansion options, more than enough legacy ports, a fast hard disk drive, and both Windows 7 and Windows 8.1, all at a price that should get heads turning.We disliked
HP should refrain from bundling any sort of non-business, entertainment-focused applications on this computer. That said, they are fairly easy to get rid of, but add to the frustration of not having a "clean" PC from the outset.Final verdict
Get this bargain basement desktop while you can, especially as the HP offer is about to end in a couple of days. It is a fantastic piece of kit with a great price, and it's a no-brainer purchase, especially if, as an individual or company, you're looking to move away from Windows XP. The bottom line is that it would probably cost a fair wad of cash to get rid of old hardware anyway, so getting it done through HP and getting discounted new hardware into the bargain is probably the best way forward.
Read More ...
10 notebooks, 2-in-1s and convertibles perfect for Windows 10
Introduction
Windows 10 is finally upon us, and while every manufacturer worth their salt is about to launch a fleet of new laptops into the market especially designed for Microsoft's latest operating system, some have already been revealed.
Of course, there are also a variety of laptops on the market that may not come with Windows 10 straight out of the box, but will receive the upgrade in due course. They may be missing dedicated keyboard shortcuts, ultra-sensitive Cortana-compatible microphones and other little extras, but they'll still run the latest incarnation of the world's most popular operating system almost as soon as it's available, thanks to the upgrade program Microsoft is offering.
Click through the gallery to see which notebooks, 2-in-1s and convertibles we're recommending for your latest mobile computing upgrade.
- You might also like: 9 Best Ultrabooks 2015: top thin and light laptops reviewed
1. Lenovo ThinkPad 10
Savvy business buyers will want to keep their eyes peeled during August if they want to pick up the latest mini office workhorse from Lenovo. The Thinkpad 10 is a 2-in-1 with plenty of oomph on offer from the choice of Intel Atom 'Cherry Trail' processors, up to 4GB of RAM, 128GB of storage and even 3G or 4G LTE connectivity for speedy internet access when you're out of the office.
This power coupled with an impressive 10.1-inch 1920 x 1200 screen makes it a beast that doesn't look out of place next to the Apple MacBook Air thanks to an anodised aluminium finish, and this machine will fly through any productivity tasks on Windows 10 without hesitation.
2. Asus Transformer Book T100HA
We have already seen a veritable smorgasbord of compact Asus 2-in-1s here at TechRadar, and the latest addition to the pack is slated to be yet another impressive machine – especially with Windows 10 preloaded.
The 10.1-inch screen may feel a little bit low on pixels thanks to the average 1,280 x 800 resolution screen, but for a relatively small outlay you get a very capable tablet that doubles as a notebook with enough grunt for most tasks.
The BayTrail chips from the previous model have been dropped in favour of the latest 'Cherry Trail' models, and there is now 4GB of memory on-board, with storage options ranging from 32GB to 128GB. Additional storage is provided by a microSD slot, and like some other new models the T100HA also packs a reversible USB Type-C connector.
3. HP Pavilion x2
It's wholly unsurprising to see HP embracing Microsoft's latest OS with a variety of new models, and one of our favourites has to be the HP Pavilion x2, a 2-in-1 that is ready to square up to the Surface 3, whilst also featuring a number of neat transformations.
Although the Intel Atom and a maximum of 2GB of memory may seem a little underwhelming, this little beauty is slated to cost £179 ($300, or AU$383) and features some rather special Bang & Olufsen stereo speakers either side of the display.
The Pavilion x2 is incredibly slim, even with the keyboard dock attached, which swivels on a neat cylindrical hinge that also provides a comfortable incline whilst typing.
4. Microsoft Surface 3
This list wouldn't be complete without Microsoft's own, and despite the bias this hybrid more than holds its own against other Windows tablets and 2-in-1s. With all the finest design features of the Surface Pro 3 packed into a smaller 10.8-inch form, the Surface 3 is still quite the contender.
A 1,920 x 1,200 resolution display makes Windows look pin-sharp on this smaller screen, whilst the latest Intel Atom chip provides sufficient power for most day-to-day needs without feeling sluggish.
Being a first party product, it'll get a very speedy update to Windows 10, which should make it an even better experience than the current Windows 8.1 OS allows for.
5. Toshiba Satellite Radius 15
As 2-in-1 hybrids go, Toshiba's Satellite Radius 15 is a bit of a monster. Featuring a 4K 15.6-inch screen that'll sooth the most strained of eyeballs, this aluminium-clad convertible oozes premium appeal and doesn't skimp on the specs.
With processor choices including the Intel Broadwell range of CPUs or AMD's APUs, along with a maximum of 750GB of storage and 12GB of RAM, the Radius 15 is a true desktop replacement with a very reasonable starting price of £531 (around $830, or AU$1140) for a configuration sporting a full HD screen.
Whilst it ships with Windows 8.1, the "specially selected components" and Cortana-compliant dedicated button and dual microphones make it a good fit for Microsoft's new OS.
6. Dell Venue 11 Pro 7000
With the Venue 11 Pro 7000, Dell has managed to strike a comfortable balance of speed and portability in this 10.8-inch tablet.
A crystal-clear 1920 x 1080 IPS display, capable Intel Core M processor, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage make this an attractive package that's thinner, lighter and more battery-frugal than its Core-i5-toting bigger brother.
Dell offers the choice of either a thin folio keyboard case or laptop-like keyboard dock that also includes an additional battery to double the Venue 11's battery life.
It may not be the most flash, feature-laden or fastest tablet available, but for £437 ($700, or AU$800), this versatile Windows 10-compatible choice has enough customisation options to attract a wide range of consumers.
7. Asus Zenbook UX305
This super-slim Ultrabook from Asus is a great-looking and well specified machine that ticks an awful lot of boxes for a relatively low price.
With three USB 3.0 ports, a full-size SD card reader and a microHDMI slot, MacBook fans can be forgiven for being a little envious. The 13.3-inch full HD screen is sharp, bright and has good viewing angles to boot, whilst those of you with a slightly deeper pocket might want to consider the pricier option with an impressive 3,200 x 1,800 resolution screen.
Under the hood you'll find an Intel Core M-5Y-10c processor which doesn't quite have the grunt for fast-paced gaming or other graphically intensive tasks, but gives the Zenbook UX305 an impressive 11 hour battery life, and is more than a match for any day-to-day tasks you decide to fire up on Windows 10.
8. HP Spectre X360
The Spectre X360 may be stealing its name from Bond's latest outing, but this smart 2-in-1 would easily earn its place in Q's toolkit. Unlike so many other convertible notebooks, the X360 combines the best of any full-size laptop into an appealing format that allows you to flip the screen back 360 degrees to become a full-on Windows tablet.
With a 1,920 x 1,080 screen, Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, the specifications aren't to be sniffed at, especially with the addition of a full plethora of connections.
Whilst it may come preloaded with Windows 8.1, a straightforward update to Microsoft's latest OS makes this a seriously tempting transformer.
9. Acer Aspire R13
With its unusual convertible design, this 13-inch Ultrabook from Acer is not quite like anything else on the market. Its multi-mode screen can be used in Notebook, Ezel, Stand, Pad (tablet), Tent or Display modes, and that makes it incredibly versatile – no matter what your portable PC requirements.
A speedy dual-core Intel Core i7 sits under the hood, coupled with 8GB of RAM and an up to 512GB SSD, whilst the 13.3-inch WQHD (2,560 x 1,440) screen gives it plenty of pixels to provide ample desktop real-estate.
It may not be the lightest of laptops, and the multimodal design may not appeal to everyone, but it's very capable of making the most of Windows 10 – however you plan on using it.
10. HP Pro Tablet 608
With Windows 10 devices popping up all over the place, the Pro Tablet 608 is the latest from HP, and packs an incredible set of specifications considering its diminutive size.
The 7.9-inch screen has a mammoth 2,048 x 1,536 resolution that puts it on level-pegging with the iPad mini 3 and Nexus 9, whilst the 1.44GHz quad-core Intel Atom processor and up to 4GB of RAM are enough to offer the full capabilities of Windows 10.
Although the sharp appearance and stereo speakers make it an appealing media consumption device, HP is fully intending to aim the 608 at businesses and the enterprise market, thanks to the HP Client Security and Touchpoint Manager that meet the security requirements of big businesses.
Whilst a Windows 8.1 variant has been shown off extensively, it's expected to ship with Windows 10 from sometime in August.
Read More ...
Available Tags:Google , via , Windows , Microsoft , Yahoo , Windows 7 , HP ,
No comments:
Post a Comment