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Windows 8 review
It’s unusual, to say the least, for us to spend a year with a product before publishing our review. In the case of Windows 8, we’ve written thousands of words already, starting with our first hands-on in September of 2011, followed by deep dives on the Developer Preview, Consumer Preview, Release Preview and RTM build. Even our readers have had ample time to get acquainted with the OS — it’s been available as a public download since February. And yet, we’ve never tested a final version of the software running on brand new, made-for-Windows-8 hardware. With the OS now on sale (alongside dozens of new PCs), it’s finally time for us to double back and revisit everything we’ve previously written in the form of a final, comprehensive review.
And what a challenging assignment this was: it’s hard enough to give an OS the full review treatment without burying the reader in minute details. It’s even tougher when the software was built for so many different kinds of hardware. Combining a traditional desktop with Windows Phone-inspired Live Tiles, Windows 8 was designed to be equally at home on traditional PCs and more finger-friendly devices, like tablets and hybrids. In addition to walking you through the operating system’s various gestures and built-in apps, then, we’ll spend some time talking about which form factors are best suited to this redesigned version of Windows. Read on to see what we found out.
Internet Explorer 10 preview coming to Windows 7 semi-Luddites in mid-November
For all of Microsoft’s talk of Internet Explorer 10 on Windows 8, we’ve heard precious little about the Windows 7 version beyond the certainty that it was coming. Eventually. Someday. The company is partly putting that anxiety to bed with word that IE 10 should be available for the Metrophobic in mid-November, but only in a preview version — a possible sign that Microsoft’s Windows 8 RTM deadline prevented the concurrent platform releases we’ve grown accustomed to in recent years. The team in Redmond is hinging its launch of a finished Windows 7 build on the feedback it gets, so we’d suggest that those willing to experiment with a new browser (but not a new OS) still give IE 10 a shot next month.
ASUS TAICHI 21 and VivoBook X202 go up for US pre-orders, spoil the party a bit early (update: VivoTab RT, too)
Just because ASUS has planned a grand October 23rd event to outline its US Windows 8 lineup doesn’t mean we can’t get an advance peek. Pre-orders have officially kicked off for at least two touchscreen PCs that also give us a very good feeling for the hardware we’ll see at our doors. The dual-screened TAICHI 21 is naturally the star of the show, but it will cost you: a base version of the 11.6-inch hybrid with a 1.7GHz Core i5, 4GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD starts at $1,300, while an uprated model with a 1.9GHz Core i7 and a 256GB SSD will set early adopters back by $1,600. We’d say the VivoBook X202 is more likely to get some purchases sight-unseen at $600 for an entry laptop with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, a 1.8GHz Core i3, 4GB of RAM and a conventional 500GB hard drive. Both of the systems should arrive in tandem with Windows 8′s October 26th launch and compound the traffic jams for couriers and retailers on what could be a very busy day.
Google adds mouse lock to stable Chrome 22 for 3D shooter mavens
Google’s fast-track approach to updating Chrome gives a different theme to each update: last time, it was all about visual acuity. For the just launched Chrome 22 stable version, the focus swings to gaming. Web apps can now lock in the mouse control for first-person shooters, simulations and other 3D content that needs the full attention of the pointer during play. Not keen on action games through the browser? There’s still some fine-tuning in place for those who live on the cutting edge, including Windows 8 users and Retina MacBook Pro owners. The update may already be sitting on your computer if you’re running Chrome; if not, you can get your gaming-friendly fix (and the security notes) through the source links.
Microsoft opens Windows Store app submissions to individuals, welcomes devs from 82 new markets
The march to the launch of Windows 8 soldiers on, as Microsoft has now opened the Windows Store for submissions from individuals in anticipation of the grand OS launch on October 26th. Previously, only those with company accounts were able to submit their applications for consideration in the Windows Store. The big news doesn’t end there, however, as Microsoft has also added 82 new markets for app submission, which means that in total, developers from 120 markets may now publish their applications to the Windows Store.
In additional news, Microsoft has also revealed that many MSDN subscribers will receive a free, one-year developer account to the Windows Store — eligible subscription levels include Visual Studio Professional, Test Professional, Premium, Ultimate, and BizSpark. Similarly, students that take part in Microsoft’s DreamSpark program will have their subscription fees waived. As it stands, both Windows 8 apps and traditional applications may be submitted for inclusion in the Windows Store, however in the case of applications for the desktop environment, purchasers will be re-routed to individual developer sites to make their purchase and grab the download.
TI demos Windows RT on OMAP 4470, we go hands-on (video)
It seems like every ARM chip manufacturer wants a piece of Windows 8 here at Computex 2012 — and for good reason. Hot on the heels of Asus’ Tegra 3-equipped Tablet 600 and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon S4-based development tablet, Texas Instruments is showing Windows RT on its very own OMAP 4470-based system. The 1.5GHz dual-core SoC features a PowerVR SGX544 GPU and leads the competition with a dual-channel memory interface. We chatted with Bill Crean, Product Manager of the OMAP Processor Business Unit who showed us Microsoft’s latest OS running on TI’s development tablet. The demo looked snappy enough, providing some insight about what to expect from some of Toshiba’s upcoming devices. No word yet on a quad-core version. Enjoy our hands-on gallery below and take a peek after the break for our demo video.
Acer introduces Windows 8 all-in-one U Series at Computex 2012 (update: hands-on video)
Acer just introduced two Windows 8-equipped U Series all-in-one desktops here at Computer 2012 in Taipei — the 27-inch Aspire 7600U and 23-inch Aspire 5600U. The 7600U features a 64-point capacitive multitouch tilt and swivel display and is only 3.5cm (1.38 inches) thick, while the 5600U is billed as “the thinnest AIO available” (no numbers specified). Both system feature HD visuals and Dolby Home Theater Surround sound, but the company isn’t ready to share any other details on specs.
We spent a brief minute with the larger 7600U and witnessed its ability to tilt 90 degrees from vertical to horizontal and then swivel from landscape to portrait mode — turning it into the world’s biggest e-book reader. There are two USB ports and a DC power connector in the back, two USB ports, audio in / out and an SD-card slot on the left side plus a slot-load Blu-Ray drive on the right edge. Check out the gallery below, then hit the break for our hands-on video and the obligatory PR.
Ridge Racer Unbounded Launch Trailer (video)
Namco Bandai and developer Bugbear Entertainment have this week released a new launch trailer for their Ridge Racer Unbounded driving game. Ridge Racer Unbounded part of the long-running Ridge Racer franchise will be arriving this month, hopefully within the next few days for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
Ridge Racer Unbounded includes a mass of changes from the traditional Ridge Racer game. With the addition of a track design tool and the ability to share tracks. Together with a new emphasis on crashing into opponents or through the environment to find shortcuts.
Unfortunately there has been a little confusion over the release date, and the game was originally expected to arrive on March 2nd 2012. However its now thought the release date would be March 30th. But this still has yet to be confirmed.
Source: Joystiq
Awesome Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning Launch Trailer (video)
If you are looking forward to the launch of the highly anticipated Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning game launch next week. Then this tasty launch trailer will definitely why your appetite a little more before it arrives on the 7th February.
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a new single-player action role-playing game for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, which has been developed with the help of the Ken Rolston, the lead designer of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, who has been the games executive designer. Watch the trailer for Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning after the jump for a glimpse of what you can expect.
Kingdoms of Amalur will features 5 distinct regions, 4 playable races, and 3 class trees with 22 abilities per tree.The 4 playable races include the Almain who are noble Humans, the Ljosalfar – Light Elves, the Dokkalfar – Dark Elves, and the Varani who are nomadic Humans. The 3 class (or ability) trees are Might, Finesse, and Sorcery; they correspond to the fighter, rogue, and mage classes respectively. Enjoy!!
Source: Lazy Gamer
Max Payne 3 Launch Delayed Until May
Rockstar Games has today announced that the launch of their new Max Payne 3 game, scheduled for March, has now unfortunately been delayed until May 2012.
Max Payne 3 is an upcoming third-person shooter video game in the Max Payne franchise published by Rockstar Games for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, and is the first game in the series not to be developed by Finnish game developer Remedy Entertainment.
The popular bullet-time in action sequences will make a return in Max Payne 3, and will also feature over-the-shoulder zoom aiming and cover mechanics. Max will also be able to stay grounded after a dive, enabling him to shoot 360 degrees around him.
Rockstar’s Sam Houser explains: “This is Max as we’ve never seen him before, a few years older, more world-weary and cynical than ever.”
Max Payne 3 was originally set to launch back in late 2009 but it was then pushed back to 2010 alongside several other Take-Two Interactive franchises in order to “benefit from having more development time.”
In June 2010, the game was again pushed back to 2011 and now is set for launch in May 2012. Lets hope it not becoming a Duke Nukem 2 and the launch of the game doesn’t get pushed back even further. Youie can watch the debut trailer for the new Max Payne 3 game here.
Source: Joystiq
Razer’s Project Fiona hands-on (video)
Breaking new ground in the nearly nonexistent market of “hardcore gaming tablets” with renders is interesting, but there’s nothing quite grasping something tangible. Razer’s project Fiona, for example, is something to grasp — sporting twin joystick handles on either side, it begs to be held. We couldn’t help but oblige, and dropped by Razer’s CES booth for a few minutes with the bold Windows 8 slab. Razer CEO Min-Liang Tan gave us the skinny — read on get it yourself.
Xbox 360 Dashboard update (Fall 2011) review
Kiss that old “New Xbox Experience” goodbye — the Xbox Dashboard just went full Metro. Microsoft teased the console’s latest overhaul back at E3, promising to “change living room entertainment forever.” The following months saw leaks, previews and betas, all leading up to today, the eve of the Xbox 360′s Fall Dashboard update. Is the new dash the game-changer it hopes to be? Hit the break, and we’ll find out together.
Microsoft streamlining Windows 8 install process, promises setup in just 11 clicks
Trudging through Windows 7′s upgrade process drags users through as many as four wizards, 60 windows, and more mouse clicks than anybody at Microsoft cared to count. In a recent study covering PC upgrades, Redmond found this was simply too much of a hassle for many customers. The fix? Consolidate and streamline — according to the outfit’s Building Windows 8 blog, upgrading customers will be able to power through installing Windows 8 using a single wizard in as few as 11 clicks. The new process scans the machine for compatibility, checks for the best version of Windows to install, and prompts the user through the process. Moreover, using Windows 8′s upcoming web delivery method pre-keys the setup image, freeing users from remembering a 25-digit product key. Advanced users will be able to use a new Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit to create customized unattended setup configurations for multi-boot and specialized network installations. Want to read into all the juicy details? Hit the source link below.
Windows XP turns 10, enjoys its golden years and slow transition into retirement
It’s hard to believe that it was ten years ago today that Windows XP first hit retail shelves. It’s even more astonishing when you realize that it was still the most popular operating system in the world until the beginning of this month. The sun may finally be setting on the stalwart OS that has powered countless home and business PCs (it crossed the 400 million mark way back in 2006), but it’s still number two — right behind it’s youngest brother Windows 7 and well ahead of the black sheep, Vista. Sure, our relationship with Microsoft’s OS has had its ups and downs, but it’s clear we’ve developed an attachment to the ol’ bird. After all, consumer demand kept it shipping on PCs until late 2010 and Redmond has pledged to support it until April 8th of 2014. If nothing else, XP will be remembered for its incredible resilience.
Microsoft talks Windows 8 portrait mode, really wants you to be proud of it (video)
If Apple is that paranoid friend that has four deadbolts on his door and a loaded weapon in every room, then Microsoft is the over-sharer who tweets where, when and what he had for lunch — including both before and after photos (and we’re not talking about pictures of a clean plate). Redmond wants you to know about everything it does — no accomplishment is too minor for a lengthy explanation of the what and why. Take for example, portrait mode. Windows 8 will have one. We know what you’re thinking, “well I would frackin’ hope so,” but the devs want you to know this isn’t just some feature they slapped in the OS knowing people would expect it. The team studied users both familiar with and new to the tablet form factor. They looked at grip, posture and when people chose to rotate their slates. And, if you’re some weirdo who likes reading things on their side, there’s a rotation lock option. For more details hit up the source link and the video after the break.
Switched On: The great slate debate of Windows 8
Just as Windows Phone 7′s “touch-only” interface threw away the past to create a streamlined, more approachable experience, Microsoft is creating a “touch-first” experience for Windows 8 that has more in common with its new phone software than previous versions of Windows. This “Metro-style” UI will be able to run on virtually any modern PC, with screens from 10- to 30-inches and above. The touch interface will be only occasionally relevant on desktops, though, more so on laptops. Where it’s obviously meant to shine is on pure slates — will consumers really flock to Windows 8 for such slates, though?
The software and hardware — to say nothing of Microsoft’s cloud services — have come a long way. Let’s give Microsoft the benefit of the doubt and say that the company will create a first-rate tablet experience in the absence of legacy Windows applications. That represents a significant improvement from the state of the Windows tablets as it has existed since the dawn of the Tablet PC. The thinness and longer battery life of both laptops and slates have also improved considerably as well since those days. Particularly with access to ARM processors, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Windows 8 slates match the razor-like profile of the iPad 2 or Galaxy Tab 10.1… or whatever the state-of-the-art is when Windows 8 ships.
Microsoft launches Windows 8 developer preview, downloads are live!
We got a taste of Windows 8 back at D9, but the real bounty is waiting in Anaheim. The company’s kicking off its Build conference with a full-on developer preview of its next major desktop operating system, still code-named Windows 8 for the time being. According to Steven Sinofsky — president of the Windows and Windows Live Division at Microsoft — the company has “reimagined Windows,” bringing about a “new range of capabilities” that coders will begin to dig into sooner rather than later. As we’d seen before, the “Metro-styled” user interface is front-and-center, bringing graphical elements of Windows Phone 7 to desktop, laptop and tablet users of the future. Internet Explorer 10 is also onboard, as well as a focus on “apps” that can communicate with one another, and content that can sync across devices. Folks comfortable in a Win7 environment ought to be right at home here — Win8 is built on the same foundation, though the retooled Task Manager and Windows Explorer should tickle the average fancy.
The Windows Store will enable devs to hawk their apps to any nation where Windows is sold, and yes, support for ARM-based chipsets is proudly included alongside compatibility with x86 devices. In other words, everything from “10-inch tablets to laptops to all-in-ones with 27-inch HD screens” will be able to ingest Win8 with ease. That’s a markedly different take than the folks in Cupertino have expressed, with an (admittedly limiting) mobile OS being chosen to run the tablet side of things. Only time will tell which mantra proves more viable, but we’re guessing the both of ‘em will find varying levels of success. Microsoft has also confirmed backwards compatibility with “devices and programs” that support Windows 7, and while an exact time has yet to be revealed, we’re told that developers will be able to download the Windows Developer Preview via the new Windows Dev Center later this week. Full fact sheets can be seen in the source link below.
Xbox Live Fall 2011 Dashboard update preview: Bing search, voice control, and a Metro overhaul
Autumn is fast approaching — and you know what that means: it’s round about time for an Xbox Dashboard update. Sure, we got a peek of Microsoft’s upcoming harvest back at E3, but the good folks from Redmond invited us to take a closer look at what they’re calling the “most significant update to the Dashboard since NXE.” Senior project Manager Terry Ferrell was on-site to walk us through an early engineering beta and show us how an updated Metro UI, Bing search and deeper Kinect integration is going to change the way folks manage their entertainment content.
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