Microsoft releases new preview build following Summer Update to fix Skyrock app issue

Over the past weekend, Microsoft released Xbox One Summer Update to everyone which brings new features like Cortana, background music support and more. Hot on the heels of Summer Update roll out, Xbox team has now released a new preview build which fixes the issue related to Skyrock app.

DETAILS

OS version released: rs1_xbox_rel_1608.160729-1700 Available: 6:00PM PDT 7/31 (1:00 AM GMT 1/8)

Thanks for helping us test the latest Xbox One update! We're eager to show off the new features and experiences we've been working on. We've noted below a few important things to be aware of before you jump in.

• Certain content (games, apps, DLC) purchased in the new Store may only be available on consoles enrolled in the latest Windows 10 Anniversary edition update or later. This means… • Games purchased on a console running a Windows 10 Anniversary edition can be played on any console running that build or later. • Games purchased via Xbox.com can be played on any console. • Games purchased on a console running the previous update can be played on any console.

• We've added several settings that are already found on Windows today. These include SmartScreen Filter, which sends URLs you visit in apps to Microsoft to check against a list of potentially harmful sites, and advertising ID, which helps Microsoft present you with more personalized ads in Universal Windows Apps. You can choose to turn these off and manage your preferences for how Xbox One uses your information in Settings.

FIXES

• My Games & Apps • Resolved an issue where Skyrock app was unusable after updating.

CURRENT KNOWN ISSUES

• My Games & Apps • If a universal app version of an app is available, the version which is not currently installed may appear under Ready to Install (causing what appears to be the same app both installed and in Ready to Install). • You may encounter an an installation error (0x800700002) when attempting to install or update universal apps. Workaround: Uninstall and reinstall the app. If you have the app installed on both the internal hard drive and an external hard drive, be sure to uninstall from both. • The following games may appear under Apps instead of Games: Kinect Sports Rivals, Kinect Sports Rivals Hub, Nutjitsu, Threes, Voice Commander.

• Netflix You may experience a "Do you own this game or app?" error when launching or using Netflix if it was installed by another user on the console. Workaround: While signed in as the primary user, navigate to the Store, search for Netflix and select Free to download and install it.

• Profile When selecting "Add new" to add a new profile, the add profile interface may take up to 30 seconds to appear.

• Pins If you have pins on your Home to movies, TV shows, or music, they will disappear from Home. The pins for the apps will stay on your Home, easy to get to.

• Community Calendar Links to the Store in Community Calendar event details do not currently function.

Once the update is available, you can update by launching the Guide and navigating to All Settings > System > Console info & updates.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2anWLvG
via IFTTT

SHAREit for Windows 10 Mobile updated with Android hotspot scanner and more

Popular file sharing app SHAREit was today updated to v1.7.7 for Windows 10 Mobile devices. This update fixes the bug which causes transmission failure and adds android hotspot scanner feature.

v1.7.7 change log:

1. fix transmission bug

2. add android hotspot scanner feature (Mobile Version)

Recently, they added "Connect to PC" feature. "Connect to PC" features allows you to transfer files between phone and PC. When you want to connect your phone to PC, you have to scan the QR Code displayed on the SHAREit PC app using your SHAREit mobile app. Once the devices are connected, you can begin transferring files between devices in seconds. It uses WiFi to transfer files between devices, so you don't need data connection to transfer files across your devices.

The updated app can be found in the Windows Store here.

WP-Appbox: SHARE.it (Free, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aK2PRH
via IFTTT

Developer Submission: Media Codecs Pack gets an update with new Windows 10 features!

Try new version of a powerful player that allows to play a very large number of media files formats.

Media Codecs Pack supports AVI, MKV, FLV, VOB, WAV, WM, MP4, MP3, WAVE and more than 200 other popular formats.

Forget about all problems with music and movies playback! Just choose the file and play it via this app!

Watch, Listen and Get only positive emotions from new improved version of Media Codecs Pack!

NEW FEATURES:
– Windows Hello. It provides security. Now you can put the protection to have access to the application. Use protection via PIN code, scan a fingerprint or iris.
– Use Cortana voice commands to navigate through the app faster and more convenient.
– With Windows Ink you can draw on created screenshots from video.

Media Codecs Pack in the Windows Store

WP-Appbox: Media Codecs Pack ($5.99, Windows Store) →

Try new Media Codecs Pack features as well as share your experience with our team!

Enjoy using!

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2akzRHq
via IFTTT

Developer Submission: Surfy Browser 5.28 gets a new Logo and now also on Android

Today Surfy Browser, the popular web browser app for Windows Phone 8.1 and Windows 10, has been updated to version 5.28, sporting a brand-new clean logo design.

Surfy Browser is also now available in beta on the Android platform, via the Google Play Store. At present the beta is limited to the first few hundred users. So, get in fast if you want to see what Surfy Browser on Android has to offer.
To take part in the Android beta, visit the Android Beta Testers group on Google+.

Some new features in Surfy Browser on Android include passcode protected tiles and the ability to save an entire browsing session to a tile. The browsing session can also include automatic private browsing mode and the ability to show or hide a screenshot of the page or pages on the tile.

We're hoping these new features make their way to Surfy Browser for Windows in the not too distant future.

If you are yet to try Surfy Browser on Windows, or if it's been a while since you last took a look, I recommend you go and download the latest version and enjoy Surfy's unique set of features listed below:

• Real swipable tabs
• Mobile optimization, which can reduce data usage down to as little as 20%
• Passcode protection
• Shake to refresh
• Voice Search (WP 8.1)
• Voice commands launch favorites and well known pages
• Save and Share downloaded files
• Transfer files to a computer over Wi-Fi
• Export downloaded files to SD Card
• Export any file to Media Library
• Download YouTube videos
• Private browsing
• Themable Panoramic hub with customizable background image
• Share links via NFC
• Save Passwords and Logins
• Desktop mode
• Download manager with foreground and background downloads
• Multiple search providers: Google Bing DuckDuckGo Yahoo! Baidu
• Searchable history
• Clear cookies and cache with history
• Private browsing at start-up
• Set desktop or reading mode for individual tabs
• Share pages via Email SMS, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, & NFC
• Night dimmer
• Listen to pages with Surfy's amazing multilingual text to speech engine
• Save images & open links via context menu
• Find on Page
• Customize tabs and application bar colors
• Pin pages to the Launch Pad

Download Surfy for free

WP-Appbox: Surfy Browser (Free^*, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aJyBOw
via IFTTT

Deal: Microsoft Band 2 Medium size now available for $99.99 from Amazon

Microsoft Band 2 Medium Size alone is now available for just $99.99 from Amazon in the US, down $150.00 from its original price of $249.99.

Features:

• Continuous heart rate monitor tracks heart rate, calorie burn, and sleep quality
• Tracking for running, biking, golf, and more
• Email, text, calendar, and call alerts on the go
• 11 sensors, including GPS, UV monitor, and barometer
• Full-color curved display

Microsoft Band helps you live healthier by tracking your heart rate, exercise, calorie burn, and sleep quality, and helps you achieve more with email, text, and calendar alerts at a glance. Advanced sensors track data specific to running, biking, and golfing. Technology from Microsoft Health gives you actionable insights based on your data. Microsoft Band works with Windows Phone, Android, and iPhone.

Get the deal here from Amazon. It is available for $175 from Microsoft Store.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aohvqn
via IFTTT

Is Microsoft’s Windows 10 Mobile strategy really going to plan?

Microsoft's recent financials give the impression that the massive drops in Lumia shipments have all been foreseen as part of the "focussing" of Microsoft's smartphone business following a change in their strategy, but are things really going on exactly as they foresaw?

There is of course plenty of evidence that Microsoft never really had a good understanding of the smartphone market, with Nokia having a much better grasp on what consumers wanted. The Register also suggests Microsoft has a long history of mistakes, delays and change of plans, suggesting for example the Surface Phone was meant to be an x86 device until Intel cancelled their smartphone-capable Atom processor line (that would be an interesting prototype to turn up one day).

Looking however at more recent history, we have 2 pieces of evidence. One is that Microsoft blamed Windows Phone for missing its billion Windows 10 device target, suggesting that they did not expect Windows Phone sales to crash quite as hard as they did, and they expected the 3rd party OEM business to fill the gap a lot faster and more fully.

The second is the laying off of an additional 2850 employees on top of the 1850 they already announced earlier, much of them from the Windows Phone division, suggesting once again once again that that division is deteriorating faster and more than Microsoft expected.

There is also the suggestion that Microsoft's UWP platform is not picking up as fast as Microsoft expected, with Microsoft not updating the app count in the Windows Store for some months now.

Microsoft unfortunately has a history of making simple mistakes (such as cancelling the McLaren) with very predictable consequences, and while they like to give the impression that the are fully in control (and some of our readers believe this) very often when history unfolds they are proven wrong.

Do our readers think Microsoft's plans over the last year are working as intended, or are they still flailing for traction? Let us know below.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aH8DhW
via IFTTT

Plex app updated with improvements to subtitles readability and bug fixes

Last week, Plex released its all new app for Windows 10 PCs in the Windows Store. This new UWP app came with all new design, Cortana integration, support for Continuum and more. Plex today released an update in Windows Store with improved readability for subtitles and more. Find the change log below.

3.0.35

NEW

– (Video) Doubled the thickness of the outline of subtitles for better readability

FIX

– Show resume button also on unwatched items on On Deck hub (#1752)

– App sometimes crashes when opening a pre-play screen with a lot of items (#1758)

3.0.34

FIX – Show a server as offline even if we know we'd not be able to connect to it due to security restriction

– (Video Player) Video playback sometimes did not fallback to transcoding after failed playback (#1756)

– (UI) Sync item dialog could have its content clipped on machines with display scaling set to 200% (#1753)

With an easy-to-install Plex Media Server software and your Plex apps, available on all your favorite phones, tablets, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and smart TVs, you can stream your video, music, and photo collections any time, anywhere, to any device. Find more details about Plex here.

Download the update from Windows Store using the below link.

WP-Appbox: Plex (Free^*, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aGQm3N
via IFTTT

Developers will soon be able to submit UWP apps to the Xbox One store

At present the Xbox One only supports a small handful of Universal Windows Platform apps, including headliners such as Netflix and Hulu.

It seems however that this situation is set to improve dramatically soon, according to Director of Program Management for Xbox Mike Ybarra.

We're working out details on when any developer can upload UWA apps to Xbox. More details in near future. It will happen soon. #Xbox

— ??ike Ybarra (@XboxQwik) July 30, 2016

It is not yet known what criteria will apply to these apps, and how this would differ from the current Windows Store. The holy grail would of course be for developers to be able to submit UWP games to play on the Xbox One, which would give developers a major boost, since currently the process of getting games on the Xbox is very onerous and expensive.

Given only 20 million-odd Xbox Ones have been sold, would the addition of a wide range of UWP apps encourage our readers to buy the console? Let us know below.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aAPpIa
via IFTTT

Cortana for Android recieves command memory and more in latest update

Cortana for Android has been updated by Microsoft today, bringing a few new features.

Changelog:

• Now you can add a photo to a reminder. Try "Hey Cortana, remind me to pick this up at the store" and add your photo.
• Cortana can remember what you tell her and recall it on demand, across all your devices.

For those who are interested, this update brings the version number to 1.9.5.

Android users can download and update Cortana app from here.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aqHDyy
via IFTTT

A Closer Look: The new Settings app in Windows 10 Anniversary Update

Microsoft is planning to release Windows 10's biggest update so far, dubbed as the Windows 10 Anniversary Update on August 2. One of the many changes included in this update is the new and improved Settings app. This version of the Settings app has an improved interface, more settings and has taken another step towards completely replacing the Control Panel. So, it is time to take a closer look at the new Settings app in Windows 10 Anniversary Update.

Improved interface

Over the years, the modern Settings app has had a bad track record of poor design choices from the long list of jumbled up settings in Windows Phone 8.1 to Windows 10's simplistic approach to a modern Settings app, albeit, it introduced the much awaited categorized settings. This will soon change with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update as Microsoft has finally introduced a new design which takes an inspiration from the Control Panel's productive yet easy to understand layout. Additionally, Microsoft has added new animations to the app and along with numerous bug fixes, the user experience is cohesive and smooth.

In my opinion, Microsoft has done a good job at designing a very productive visual interface, making it looks very mature. Plus the addition of unique icons for each section in a great touch.

New features

Along with the interface improvements, Microsoft has added a bunch of new features to the Settings app. Firstly, the "System" section of the app which now includes a new section – Apps for Websites. This lets one enable (or disable) apps which open websites. Also, under the "Notifications & Actions" section, users can now rearrange the Action Center actions.

The biggest change is under the "Personalization" section as it now enables users to customize the look of Windows 10 by enabling the new Dark Theme. This mode was spotted a while back but has now made its way into the Settings app. Additionally, one can now enable color on title bars. Another really nice addition is the ability to customize the taskbar settings within the new Settings app.

Under the "Update & Security" section, Microsoft has added a separate "Windows Insider Program" section. This provides a better experience than Microsoft's Windows Insider app for Windows 10 phones as it is integrated into the Settings app. It allows Insiders to select their Insider Ring, or stop them temporarily (or permanently). Additionally, the "Developers" section has got some fun new options for developers to play with. There are a lot of other small additions in the new Settings app — for example, there's a new toggle which lets Windows automatically change timezone depending on your location.

Conclusion

Microsoft has done a good job at improving the Settings experience on Windows 10 by improving the user interface and adding many new options for users to tweak their Windows 10 experience. The update will be rolling out on August 2nd to Windows 10 PCs, as well as Mobile devices.

What do you think of the improved Settings app on Windows 10 Anniversary Update? Let us know in the comments below.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aCeLGX
via IFTTT

3rd party Pokemon Go app for Windows 10 now available to sideload

We wrote earlier about a developer working on a 3rd party Pokemon Go for Windows 10 Mobile.

At the time it did not seem the app would be on the way soon, but it seems the support from the Windows Phone community has inspired the developer to step up his efforts.

ST-Apps, the developer of of One Auth, has now made the app available to sideload, with the source code from GitHub available to download.

Users still need to make an account on an iOS or Android device (this can be down via Bluestacks) and side-loading need to be enabled to install the app, as it has not been submitted to the Windows Store.

The app lacks the fancy augmented reality features of the real game, but most users seem to turn those off in any case. The app is available only for Windows 10, but other developers are free to port the game to WP8.1 using the source code.

To install the app:

• Create a Pokemon™ Trainer Club account
• Login on the Android/iOS app to choose your starter (you can use Bluestacks)
• Logout from the official app
• Enable Sideloading on your device (instructions here)
• Download this appx file and this certificate
• Copy them on your phone, open your file manager, launch and install the .cer file and then launch and install the .appx one
• Launch the app on your device
• Login

See the source code at the GitHub page here.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aGdq2T
via IFTTT

Playcast updated with Restored Sort buttons

Tubecast developer Webrox has just posted an update to his Playcast streaming media app.

Unlike his Tubecast app the app is aimed at local and cloud media (video, songs and pictures) and not Youtube video, but like that app it supports streaming to a variety of receivers including Chromecast, Chromecast Audio, Apple TV (AirPlay), DLNA Smart TV, Internet Box, XBOX One, XBOX 360. The app can work in the background, meaning you can start a video playing and then use your phone for other purposes, and it will even streaming a video from OneDrive to your TV.

The app has posted a new update to the Windows Store, taking it to version 0.9.2.0

The update in a minor bug fix which restores the Sort buttons which were removed accidentally in earlier versions.

See screen shots of the app below:

Gallery : Playcast screen shots

The app is $3.99 with a fully functional week-long free trail and can be found in the Windows Store here.

WP-Appbox: Playcast ($3.99, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2amZhpb
via IFTTT

Developer Submission: Duplex Media Player updated with new features

Duplex Media Player is innovative player designed to bring unique features to Windows users. It is not "just" another media player, but it is a smart media player which includes new features, such as Picture in Picture (Pip), Cast to Chromecast and DLNA devices, record media content to local storage, automatic search/download of subtitles, browse and play directly from OneDrive without the need to download, discover and play media content stored in network media servers and more…

Gallery

What is new :

• UI and theme Improvements. Now it looks much better on different devices and resolutions.
• More control on sound volume during cast. Now you can control the volume separately on local and remote devices. Also, when starting a cast, the default now is to mute the local volume.
• Adds the ability to browse and play from media libraries.
• Adds support for drag and drop.
• Adds private password to secure opening the app.
• Fixes open from file explorer and add some other improvements.

Duplex Player has a fully functional trial version. It is in sale for a limited time, try it now.

WP-Appbox: Duplex Media Player + ($3.99^*, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aSSVw4
via IFTTT

Nextgen Reader for Windows 10 snags a minor update

Nextgen Reader for Windows 10 has picked up a minor update this evening. The latest update for the app doesn't add a lot of new features, but it adds a simple new toggle which a lot of users might love. With the latest update, you can now disable the Live Tile for the app, which will be very useful if you want a really clean and simple Start Screen. Here is the changelog:

• Changed app name to Nextgen Reader UWP.
• Added option to enable/disable live tiles under settings.

In case you aren't familiar with Nextgen Reader, it's one of the best Feedly clients for Windows 10 which includes a lot of features:

• Choose dark or light theme with multiple color accents.
• A standard 3-pane layout with full keyboard support.
• A beautiful grid layout for your touch-screen device or 2-in-1's.
• Super fast, best-in-class, sync engine with offline support.
• Pin your favorite feeds to start from either list view or grid view.
• Set open method per feed i.e. summary/full article/webpage.

You can get Nextgen Reader on your Windows 10 device from the link below.

WP-Appbox: Nextgen Reader UWP ($2.49, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2a8dUhj
via IFTTT

Readit updated with a darker Dark theme, now ready for the Xbox One

Readit for windows 10 has been updated with a couple of new features in the Windows Store today. The update adds a handful of new features, and it also fixes a couple of bugs throughout the app. With the latest update, Readit now has a darker Dark theme which should look beautiful on AMOLED displays. Alongside the dark theme, the update also makes the Light theme slightly lighter. Additionally, the update introduces a new UI for Comments and an improved UI for the Post Viewer.

More importantly, the latest update for Readit makes it ready for the Xbox One. The developer has stated that they are waiting for the Xbox Store to allow the release of Readit for the Xbox One, so it should be available pretty soon. Here is the list of new features:

• Dark theme is now darker (enjoy AMOLED users)
• Light theme is now a bit lighter
• Changed some animations in the post viewer such as the comments header and parallax effect added to post content, also the comment count now slides in where the loading indicator is instead of moving abruptly
• New comment UI, transparent with a new hierarchy indicator
• Changed the way subreddit post notifications work
  • A toast will only display on screen for the first new post it finds (this applies to every subreddit that you enabled notifications for)
  • All other posts found will be added to the action center silently (at most 4 other notifications for each sub)
• Added support for the "suggested sort" that mods can set on posts (such as q&a for AMAs)
  • If a suggested sort is set and you visit the link, the suggested sort will be loaded automatically
  • You will know this as it will be indicated with a "(suggested)" tag either in the mobile sort menu or the desktop's sort dropdown
• Comments should scroll a bit more smooth than before
• The app is now ready for Xbox release, just waiting for the store to allow it
  • Select will open the hamburger menu
  • Y will open the sidebar
  • RB/LB, Right Thumbstick & Left Thumbstick Left/Right navigation in swipe view to switch between posts
  • Controller is used as a mouse until I get the time to write an entire UI for the big screen/native controller support
  • Favorites appear at the top of the subs list like mobile
  • Defaults to desktop UI, can be overridden via settings (Disable adaptive UI – on; Prefer desktop UI – off)
  • Moving right stick left/right will:
  • Upvote/downvote comments
  • Mark as read/unread for posts

As we stated earlier, the update introduces a couple of bug fixes in the app, too — and you can find the full changelog here. If you want to download the latest update for Readit on your Windows 10 device, you can get it from the link below.

WP-Appbox: Readit (Free^*, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aSFWdU
via IFTTT

Netflix app updated with support for 4K and HDR in Xbox Store

Microsoft today announced the availability of updated Netflix app in Xbox Store. This new update brings support for 4K and HDR which will be useful on Xbox One S console which is going on sale next month. With four times the resolution of standard HD, 4K Ultra HD delivers the clearest, most realistic video possible. With Xbox One S, you can stream 4k content on Netflix and Amazon Video and watch Ultra HD Blu-ray movies in stunning visual fidelity with High Dynamic Range.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aoytmi
via IFTTT

How to enable Cortana on Xbox One outside the US and the UK

With Xbox One Summer Update, Microsoft is delivering Cortana for Xbox One in the U.S. and U.K. Actually, it is now region locked, instead it is available to users who have US-English and UK-English set as their system language. In this Summer Update, Microsoft is enabling Language Region Independence which allows you to choose any supported language on Xbox One, regardless of the location. For example, if you're in the U.S. and move to Germany, you can now keep your language set to English on Xbox One and enjoy your experiences in English. So, you can enjoy Cortana by changing your Xbox system language to these supported languages. Follow the below steps to enable Cortana outside the US and UK,

• Scroll left from Home to open the guide.
• Select Settings.
• Select All Settings.
• Under System, select Language and Location.
• For System Language, change to English (United States) and English (United Kingdom)
• For Language, change to English
• Restart the Xbox
• Again go to Settings->System, you will notice new Cortana settings button.
• Select it and accept Microsoft's terms and conditions to enable Cortana

Voice Commands were already supported on Xbox One, but with Cortana, gamers can expect more from voice commands on Xbox. In addition to more commands and greater accuracy with natural language and text dictation, Cortana provides the ability to use a headset or Kinect. You can now use voice to find new games, see what your friends are up to, start a party, accomplish common tasks, turn on your Xbox One if you're using Kinect, and more. This is just a start, Microsoft is planning to build more Cortana features over time as part of their vision to have Cortana be your personal digital assistant for gaming.

@olicharpy @XboxQwik Available to users who have US-English and UK-English set as there language. Thank to region unlock you can do it in CA

— Zach Johnson (@Zjohnson) July 30, 2016

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2acg2Aa
via IFTTT

Microsoft demoes the Xbox One Summer Update in new video

Microsoft today announced that the company has started rolling out the new Xbox One Summer Update (aka the August Update). The company has posted a new video showing off some of the new features in the latest Xbox One update, which shows off some of the major new additions such as Cortana on the Xbox One, background music, the new Store and much more. You can watch the video below:

It is worth noting that the Summer Update brings the first wave of Anniversary Update features to the Xbox One. The second wave of the update will bring some other new features and refinement throughout the system, which is expected to be available sometime in Fall.

Additionally, it is also worth mentioning that if the update isn't available for your Xbox One yet, you will need to force an update by following the simple steps here.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2a7Hzr8
via IFTTT

How to download Xbox One Summer Update

Microsoft today announced that the Xbox Summer Update starts rolling out this weekend. The update is already available for some users. It includes Cortana, Background Music support for apps like Pandora, improved Game Collection interface, best of the Xbox Store and Windows Store in a single unified experience and more. Read about all the new features here. If Xbox is not notifying about the new update, you can check for updates manually by following the below process,

1. Scroll left from Home to open the guide.
2. Select Settings.
3. Select All Settings.
4. Under System, select Console info & updates.
5. Available updates will show in the second button down in the first column.
   If an update is available, the button will read Update Available. If your console is already on the current release build, the button will be grayed out and will read No update available.

Microsoft also confirmed that it is a staged roll out, which means you may not get the prompt to update your console immediately. It may take a day or two.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aShgSI
via IFTTT

How to cast your Android screen to a Windows 10 PC

The Windows 10 Anniversary Update introduces a new Connect app which lets users cast their Android or Windows 10 Mobile's screen to their Windows 10 PC. If you own an Android device, you will be able to cast your screen to your Windows 10 PC running the Anniversary Update very easily. To cast your Android screen to your PC, just follow the steps below:

1. Open the notification center on your Android phone
2. Expand the quick actions section
3. Click on the Cast button
4. Click on More Settings from the Cast section
5. Search and open the Connect app on your Windows 10 PC
6. After that, make sure wireless display is enabled on your Android phone by clicking on the more icon from the top
7. Wait for your Android phone to find your Windows 10 PC
8. Once your PC shows up, just click on it and it'll start connecting
9. Once connected, you should be able to see your Android screen on your Windows 10 PC as shown in the screenshot below

Casting is a very nice feature in the Windows 10 Anniversary Update that is also available for Windows 10 Mobile devices. However, if you want to cast your Windows Phone's screen to your PC, you are better off using Project My Screen from Microsoft which offers a better experience. If you still want to use the Connect app in Windows 10, just open the Action Center on your Windows 10 Mobile device, Expand the Quick Actions panel, and click on Connect. There, you will be able to find your PC and cast your Windows 10 Mobile's screen to your PC.

If you have tried out the Connect feature in Windows 10, let us know what you think about it in the comment section below.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aGseLO
via IFTTT

Microsoft angers some by removing ability to disable Store from Windows 10 Pro AU

One of Microsoft's priorities with Windows 10 is promoting engagement with the Windows Store and Universal Windows Apps, but there are some situations where the Store is less than welcome.

One example would be in the work setting, where companies may prefer not to pay their employees to play Candy Crush Saga and any number of apps and games which can be downloaded from the Windows Store.

Until now IT professionals could use Group Policy Editor in Windows 10 Pro to disable access to the Store and  variety of Windows 10 features designed to promote Universal Windows Apps, such as the included games such as Candy Crush Saga.

Now gHacks.net reports that Microsoft has removed this feature from gpedit for Windows 10 Pro users, reserving it for Enterprise, Education, and Server SKUs.

The change is confirmed by a page on Technet, with the table below:

Of course it could be argued that if you are managing your own PC there is really no need to disable the Store from yourself, and if you are managing the PCs of other users you should be buying an enterprise license (minimum 5 seats).

It is nevertheless a change to the features of a version of the software which would often have cost more than $200 before the "free" update, and with the recent removal of the ability to easily disable Cortana does give the impression that Microsoft wants to move users to their new money-making ecosystem (Bing ad revenue and 30% cut from apps) with little consideration for the wishes of users who want things to remain much the same as they were before.

What do our readers think of this latest move? Could our readers imagine a time in the future where Microsoft disables the desktop except from Enterprise users? Let us know below.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aE9AYx
via IFTTT

How to sync Android notifications with Windows 10

With the upcoming Anniversary Update for Windows 10, Microsoft is introducing a new feature for Windows 10 which will allow users to sync notifications from their Android or Windows 10 Mobile devices with their Windows 10 PC. Notification Syncing will allow users to respond to a notification if it supports Quick Reply on Android right from the Action Center. For example, when you get an SMS on your Android smartphone, you will be able to reply to that message right from the Windows 10 Action Center which is really useful. Windows 10 will also notify you when your phone has a low battery, and it'll also notify you  if miss any calls.

You are probably wondering how to enable this, right? Well, it's pretty easy. Firstly, you need to install Cortana on your Android smartphone. If you live in the United States, you can get Cortana for Android here — and if you live outside of the US, you can get Cortana from APKMirror here. Once Cortana is installed, login to your Microsoft Account (make sure you're logged into the same MSA on your PC). On the Cortana app, open the Settings and go to the Sync Notifications section. In the Sync Notification section, enable all the options. After that, Notification Syncing should be enabled for your Android smartphone. If you want to disable some app notifications from syncing, simply go to the Choose Which Apps To Sync section.

If notification syncing still doesn't work, you need to open Cortana and head over to Cortana's Settings on your Windows 10 PC. Scroll down, and you will see a "Send notification between devices" section — make sure that is enabled. After that click on the "Edit sync settings" button and go to the Notification Syncing settings. Once you are there, find your Android phone and make sure it is enabled. You can also control which app notifications you want to see on your PC from your Android phone in that section, which is pretty useful.

What about Windows 10 Mobile?

If you are a Windows 10 Mobile user, it's very easy to enable notification syncing on a Windows Phone too. On your Windows 10 Mobile device, open up Cortana and navigate to Cortana Settings. Once you are in Cortana Settings, scroll down and you'll see the "Send notification between devices" section — just like Windows 10 PCs, enable that toggle and go to the Edit Sync settings to be able to customize Notification Syncing.

What about iOS?

Unfortunately, Notification Syncing isn't available for the iPhone just yet. Microsoft does have Cortana on the iPhone, but Cortana doesn't support Notification Syncing on iOS just yet. It isn't yet known if Microsoft plans to bring this feature in the near-future, but for now, you won't be able to sync notifications if you own an iPhone.

---

Notification Syncing is a pretty awesome feature in Windows 10, and it's one of the major new additions in the Anniversary Update. Keep in mind that you won't be able to try it out right now if you are on an older version of Windows 10, and you will need to be on the Anniversary Update to be able to use this awesome feature. In case you don't know, Anniversary Update will be available on August 2 to existing Windwos 10 users as a free upgrade, and you will be able to use Notification Syncing once you have the update installed.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2azkUUn
via IFTTT

Here’s what’s new in the August Update for the Xbox One

Microsoft today released Xbox One System Update (aka August Update) version 10.0.14393.1018 (rs1_xbox_rel_1608.160725-1822) to Xbox One users. This is a major update with lots of new features like Cortana support in the US and UK, background music support, improved My games and apps section, and more. The update brings the first wave of the Windows 10 Anniversary Update features to the Xbox One, while th second wave will be available this Fall.

Here is the changelog:

Cortana available in the U.S. and UK:

• Talk to Cortana on your Xbox One with your headset or Kinect. To start, just say "Hey Cortana" or launch the Cortana app. If you're not sure what to say, try "Hey Cortana, what can I say?"
• If you're using Kinect, turn on your console by saying, "Hey Cortana, Xbox on."

Background music:

• Music apps will now be able to play music in the background. In an app that supports background music, just start some music. You'll be able to switch to other apps and games while the music plays.
• After starting your music: To play, pause, skip, and adjust music volume from anywhere, double-tap the Xbox button to open the guide, choose Multitasking, then select your music controls.
• The app must support background music. An updated Pandora app in the U.S. is the first app to support background music—and more are coming soon.

My games & apps:

• Your stuff is closer. From Home, move right and select My games & apps.
• In My games & apps, there are new sorting options.
• "Ready to Install" has its own area, so you can quickly find the games and apps you've purchased but haven't installed.
• Game and app updates will show up in their own area, when available.
• The queue area now tells you what's been recently installed in addition to what's in your queue.

Language & location settings:

• You can now choose your location separately from your system language. To change your language and location, double-tap the Xbox button to open the guide, select Settings > All settings, then choose System > Language & location.
• All languages aren't available for all locations. When you choose a language that isn't usually associated with your location, most of the system will be in your chosen language, but you may see a mix of languages in areas like Store or online content.

Top PC games on Xbox Live:

• Top PC games now have game hubs on Xbox Live. Whether you're on PC, Xbox, or mobile, you'll see what PC games your friends are playing, share PC game clips and screenshots, and message friends on Xbox Live. On Xbox One and Windows 10 PCs, you can join a party chat with your friends no matter what they're doing.

New Store:

• Xbox Store and the Windows Store have come together, making the shopping experience more streamlined. From Home, move right to Store to start browsing all content.
• Preorders now get charged closer to game launch instead of at time of purchase. You can also cancel and change your payment option for preorders anytime at account.microsoft.com.
• Customers in the U.S., Switzerland, Norway, Italy, Germany, and Finland can now use mobile operator billing to make purchases. Customers in China can now use China Union Pay.

Find Facebook friends:

• Live accounts. In the guide, go to the Friends tab, then choose Friends > Suggestions. Select Find Facebook friends and follow the steps. Your Facebook friends that have done the same will start showing up in your suggestions.

Control automatic sharing:

• You can now choose to automatically share your achievements, screenshots, and game clips to your activity feed. To change your sharing settings, go to Settings > Preferences > Activity feed.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2ajK7E2
via IFTTT

Xbox One is now getting the August Update

Microsoft has started rolling out the August Update for the Xbox One today with a range of new features. The August Update brings the first wave of the Windows 10 Anniversary Update features to the Xbox One, while the second wave will be available this Fall. The update brings a number of new features, including Cortana and much more.

Firstly, the update brings Cortana to the Xbox One. If you have used Cortana on Windows 10 or on your smartphone, it'll feel very familiar on the Xbox One. For the Xbox One, Microsoft has added some specific commands such as "Hey Cortana, Xbox on." Of course, if you don't like Cortana, you can always disable it and go back to the old Xbox commands.

In addition to Cortana, the Anniversary Update also brings a major feature to the Xbox One: the Universal Windows Apps. Yep, some Windows 10 apps will now be available on the Xbox One. Companies like Netflix, Hulu, and other third-party developers are going to have new Windows 10 apps for the Xbox One with the Anniversary Update. If you are a developer making apps for the Universal Windows Platform, you will also be able to bring it to the Xbox One very easily.

Alongside the new Universal Windows Apps, the update introduces some other much-needed features such as Background Music, and other general improvements. As per usual, there are some improvements to the user interface throughout the OS, which are always nice to see. There are lots of other small changes in the update, and you can find the full list of the major changes in the Anniversary Update for the Xbox One here. 

If you own an Xbox One, you should be able to get the update right now on your device. Go ahead and install it, and let us know what you think of it! We will have a full review of the Anniversary Update on the Xbox One, so keep an eye out for that, too.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2ajHf9T
via IFTTT

Node.js Tools 1.2 for Visual Studio 2015 now available for download

Microsoft today released Node.js Tools 1.2 for Visual Studio. Node.js Tools 1.2 supports Visual Studio 2015, including the free Visual Studio Community Edition and Express for Web. Apart from support for Node.js v6.x and numerous bug fixes, they have included the following improvements to increase developer productivity.

Faster, better ES6 IntelliSense: Whether you were running into performance issues or craving the latest and greatest JavaScript goodness, the new ES6 IntelliSense experience is now on by default, and better than ever! The new ES6 IntelliSense engine takes advantage of type definition files to provide better and more performant IntelliSense. This is applicable for the most popular Node.js frameworks, such as Commander, Express, jQuery and Knockout.

More reliable debugging: Advanced debugging is the cornerstone of NTVS, we've made it even better by addressing several user-reported issues. So if breakpoints weren't working properly sometimes, or things were generally inconsistent, be sure to download this release to get the latest fixes!

Improved Performance:Hangs and crashes are a drag, but not anymore! This release provides significantly improved stability and performance, including reducing out-of-memory crashes seen in prior versions. We've also made several improvements to our project system, so you can expect improved project load times (especially during "Add from Existing Code").

Improved Unit Testing Experiences: While it's generally best practice to avoid writing bugs altogether, some of us are not omniscient, and find unit tests to be pretty helpful. So we've made some improvements to the unit testing experience, including adding tape support.

Download Node.js Tools 1.2 for Visual Studio.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2an4PxA
via IFTTT

Windows Camera, Skype Preview and Outlook Mail & Calendar updated for Windows 10 devices

Microsoft today released an update to its Windows Camera, Skype Preview and Outlook Mail & Calendar apps for both Windows 10 PCs and Windows 10 Mobile devices.

Windows Camera This v2016.722.11.0 update seems to be a minor one with no major changes. The change log mentioned in the Store listing is very old.

• Bug fixes for reliability and performance

• User experience improvements

Last week, Microsoft added native panorama support in Windows Camera app. Read about it here.

Microsoft recently delivered a major update for Skype UWP app in Windows Store with support for Bots, call waiting and more. But this v11.7.87.0 update includes just bug fixes.

Outlook Mail and Calendar app update is also a minor one with no new change log. The updated app version number  is 17.7167.40608.0.

Update these apps from Windows Store using links below. If you noticed anything new in these update, let us know in the comment section below.

WP-Appbox: Mail and Calendar (Free, Windows Store) →

WP-Appbox: Skype Preview (Free, Windows Store) →

WP-Appbox: Windows Camera (Free, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2a6K0dB
via IFTTT

PowerApps app updated with new sample apps & templates in Windows Store

Microsoft yesterday updated its PowerApps app in Windows Store. This v2016.725.50.288 update includes few improvements like: Dates appear in DatePicker controls by default, Explore new sample apps and templates and Pass parameters while running an app in the browser using a query string. Find the full change log below.

1. Dates and times when you create an app automatically.

   If you create an app automatically from a data source that includes date information, the app will show that information on EditScreen1 in a DatePicker control by default. If the source also includes time information, it will appear in Drop down controls.

2. New sample apps and templates.

   You can open a sample app that demonstrates a scenario such as showcasing products, surveying employee engagement, checking out assets, and helping a new employee choose a health plan.

3. Pass parameters while running an app in the browser using a query string.
4. Deprecated data sources from Project Siena.

   If you created or updated an app in the beta 4 release of Project Siena to include data from any of these sources, that data will no longer appear if you run or edit the app in PowerApps:

   • on-premises SharePoint sites
   • Azure Mobile Services
   • REST services that weren't created by using a WADL file
   • RSS

   If you open the app for editing, an error icon will notify you which control or controls have properties that refer to a deprecated data source.

Microsoft PowerApps enables users to create applications for Windows, iOS, and Android mobile devices. Using these apps, you can create connections to common SaaS services, including Twitter, Office 365, Dropbox, and Excel. PowerApps is currently in public preview. Download it from Windows Store using the below link.

WP-Appbox: PowerApps (Free, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2axSSqS
via IFTTT

Developer Submission: Diabetes Analyzer updated with new format and languages support

Diabetes Analyzer is an app to keep track of your glucose values on the go with support for graphs,average,minimum and maximum glucose values.
It is also one of the very UWP app for keeping track of Diabetes in the store.

It is now updated to version 1.56.3.0 which brings following changes to the application:

• Support for mmol/L format
• Support for Chinese,Czech,Dutch and Slovak Language support.

The updated app can be found here in :Windows Store

WP-Appbox: Diabetes Analyzer (Free^*, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2agAQsa
via IFTTT

Developer Submission: New improved version of Duplicate Cleaner is already available for users!

We are pleased to announce the new version of Duplicate Cleaner!

Duplicate Cleaner helps you to find and remove duplicates or similar files from your device! It provides fast search, convenient sorting and easy removal of duplicates.

New 1.0.16.0 version gets following:

• Support for Windows 10 functions: Cortana, Windows Hello, Ink.
• Sorting in results found.
• Filter for system files.
• Ability to delete a single file.
• Confirmation message when deleting files.
• Ability to select multiple folders to scan.
• Improved the app tutorial.
• Overall bug fixes.

Get Duplicate Cleaner from the Windows Store

Free your device from unnecessary files fast and easy!

WP-Appbox: Duplicate Cleaner ($3.99^*, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2ay8BYi
via IFTTT

‘The Angry Birds Movie’ and ‘Batman: The Killing Joke’ now available in Windows Store

The Angry Birds Movie and Batman: The Killing Joke are now available in Windows Store. Read about them below.

The Angry Birds Movie:

This pre-purchase will be added to your collection now and become playable as soon as it is released on Microsoft Movies & TV. In this animated adventure comedy, The Angry Birds Movie, we'll finally find out why the birds are so angry. The movie takes us to an island populated entirely by happy, flightless birds – or almost entirely. In this paradise, Red, a bird with a temper problem, speedy Chuck, and the volatile Bomb have always been outsiders.
Pre-order now to add it to your library and watch it as soon as the movie is released. Available to watch soon.

Pre-order it here from Windows Store.

Batman: The Killing Joke:

Journey into the twisted psyche of a supervillain, The Joker, voiced by Mark Hamill (yes, that Mark Hamill) as he wages a psychological war against the Dark Knight in "Batman: The Killing Joke," an animated film based on the acclaimed DC Comics graphic novel and available one week before Blu-ray and DVD.

What does it take for a person to snap? How much despair for a mind to fracture? These are the twisted questions that The Joker has set out to answer, to show Gotham that even an ordinary man like Commissioner Gordon is only one bad day away from sheer insanity. Based on the acclaimed DC Comics graphic novel, witness a journey into the dark psyche of the Clown Prince of Crime. Follow his humble beginnings as a struggling comic to his fateful encounter with the Dark Knight that changed everything. Fueled by the return of Kevin Conroy as Batman and Mark Hamill as The Joker, witness the birth of a super villain, the fortitude of a hero and the punch line that you will leave you speechless.

Order it here from Windows Store.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2akDLkF
via IFTTT

Microsoft provides a quick look at the Windows 10 Anniversary Update for the Xbox One

Microsoft's just posted a quick look at the Windows 10 Anniversary Update for the Xbox One, which is apparently now known as the August update for the system. You can check out the video below.

The Anniversary/August update on the Xbox One adds a lot of new features, with one of the main ones being Cortana. Cortana's been updated on the system a lot recently, and it seems she's just about ready for everyday users to try out.

Other big features include universal apps, like Skype, Netflix, and Groove, and background music. There's plenty to look forward to in this update, and if you're not an Xbox One Preview member you'll be able to check it all out next month.

What do you think of the Xbox One August update? Let us know in the comments below!

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aaKivo
via IFTTT

Xbox support posts Xbox One S videos to Youtube

Xbox Support's begun uploading videos of the Xbox One S to their official Youtube channel, and there's a lot to see. As spotted by Windows Central, the channel contains a multitude of videos about the console. These range from enabling HDR support to connecting your controller and everything in between.

The Xbox One S releases on August 2nd for $400. If you'd like to purchase it on Amazon, you can do so here. You can also check out the console's description below.

Introducing the new Xbox One S. Play the greatest games lineup, including Xbox 360 classics, on a 40% smaller console with High Dynamic Range. Store more games than ever with a massive 2TB hard drive. Stream 4K video on Netflix and Amazon Video, and watch UHD Blu-ray movies in stunning visual fidelity. Then experience the enhanced comfort and feel of the new Xbox Wireless Controller, featuring textured grip and Bluetooth technology. Now includes a vertical stand for the perfect setup and fit. With all the biggest blockbusters this year, everything you love about Xbox 360 is even better on Xbox One.

Did you pre-order an Xbox One S? Let us know in the comments below!

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aQBnAX
via IFTTT

Update 1607 for System Center Configuration Manager now available

Microsoft today announced the new System Center Configuration Manager Technical Preview (1607) that includes some new features. With this update, you can upgrade PC clients running Windows 10 Professional edition to Windows 10 Enterprise edition with just a product key; no reimaging required.

• Customizable branding for end-user dialogs: End-user dialogs that are opened from Software Center or taskbar notifications now show the same organization name, color, and icon branding as Software Center. The administrator workflow for specifying branding settings remains unchanged.
• Manage duplicate hardware identifiers: Add known duplicate MAC addresses or SMBIOS IDs to be ignored hierarchy-wide for PXE boot and client registration.
• Microsoft Operations Management Suite (OMS) connector: Sync data such as collections from ConfigMgr to OMS.
• Windows 10 Edition Upgrade: Upgrade PC clients running Windows 10 Professional edition to Windows 10 Enterprise edition with just a product key; no reimaging required.

System Center Configuration Manager is a part of the Microsoft System Center suite of management solutions that helps organizations manage devices and users both on-premises and in the cloud. Update 1607 for Technical Preview is available directly in the Configuration Manager console. If you want to install Configuration Manager Technical Preview for the first time, download it from TechNet Evaluation Center.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2ajA6Rb
via IFTTT

DailyMotion app updated for Xbox Preview users with improved UX

DailyMotion app was updated today in Xbox Store for Preview users with bug fixes and some UI tweaks which improves the overall app experience. Find the full change log below.

• Navigation fixes for the Home page, User page, and My user page.
• You can now disable the mini player by going to the Settings page.
• Resolved some user interface issues with the mini player.
• Resolved user interface issues on the Home page, User page, and Search.

Update it from Xbox Store to enjoy this new improved experience. If you are on Windows 10 device, download it from Store using the below link.

WP-Appbox: Dailymotion (Free, Windows Store) →

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2amXXmi
via IFTTT

PSA: Windows 10 will continue to be a free to assistive technology users

The Windows 10 upgrade offer will be ending in a few hours. If you still haven't updated to Windows 10, you will have to pay $119 or more to upgrade to Windows 10. Now, if you happen to use any assistive technologies, you will still be able to upgrade to Windows 10 for free. Back in May, Microsoft announced that the company will be offering Windows 10 as a free upgrade to assistive technology users,  even after the upgrade offer is gone for everyone else:

As you may have heard, the free Windows 10 upgrade offer for customers running Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 is set to end on July 29, but we want to clarify that that deadline will *not* apply to customers who use assistive technologies. We are continuing to deliver on our previously-shared vision for accessibility for Windows 10 and we are committed to ensuring that users of assistive technologies have the opportunity to upgrade to Windows 10 for free as we do so.

Microsoft has also launched a website for assistive technology users where they can get more info on how to get the update. Additionally, the company has shared some of the upcoming features and improvements coming to Windows 10 for assistive technology users with Anniversary Update, which you can find here.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2ax7wyG
via IFTTT

OneDrive iOS App Update Fixes The Screen Flashing Issue

Microsoft today released an update to their OneDrive iOS app with couple of bug fixes. This update fixes the screen flashing issue which was occurring when opening a photo from the Photos tab. Find the full change log below.

What's New in Version 7.7 :

This release we fixed the following bugs:
•Screen flashing when opening a photo from the Photos tab
•Sharing not working when a file is open

Update it here from App Store.

Microsoft also recently released an update for their Outlook app with improvements related to Events.

• Event creation is now more connected than ever. Start typing the first few letters of your desired location and we'll provide handy suggestions at your fingertips.
• On top of that, we'll display the location in a map in your event's details so you have a better idea of exactly where you're supposed to go. Not sure how to get there? Tap on the map to jump into your favourite Maps app and get directions.

Update it here from App Store.

from MSPoweruser http://ift.tt/2aiyQUv
via IFTTT