10 Best Smartphones Under Rs 25,000: OnePlus 2, Apple iPhone 5, Moto X, Samsung Galaxy A7 and Others

The India smartphone market is flooded with devices packed with good features, and the latest to join the fray is OnePlus 2. The new device will have to take on the likes of Apple iPhone 5, Motorola Moto X (2^nd Gen), Samsung Galaxy A7, HTC Desire 826, Sony Xperia Z and others.

The OnePlus 2 was unveiled in India on Tuesday and it will be released in several countries, including the US, Canada, India, Europe, and China on 11 August.

The 16 GB variant of the device comes with a price tag of Rs 22,999 ($329 / (€339) while the 64 GB costs Rs 24,999 ($389 / €399). It will face stiff competition from other devices in the same price range.

Here are the 10 best smartphones tha cost less than Rs 25,000 in India, and their specifications (list not in particular order):

1) OnePlus 2

Current Price: Rs 22,999 (for 16 GB) /Rs 24,999 (for 64 GB)

Display: 5.5-inch full HD LCD screen with In-cell display technology

Resolution: 920x1080 pixels (401 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 v2.1 series

Operating System: Android 5.1 Lollipop

Memory: 16 GB internal memory and 3 GB RAM, and 32 GB and 4 GB RAM (no microSD card slot)

Camera: 13 MP main camera, 5 MP wide-angle front camera

Battery: 3,300 mAh battery

2) Apple iPhone 5

Current Price: Rs 24,999 (16 GB model)

Display: 4-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD, capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 640 x 1136 pixels (326 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Apple A6

Operating System: iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 8.4

Memory: 16 internal memory, 1 GB RAM (no microSD card slot)

Camera: 8 MP main camera, 1.2 MP secondary snapper

Battery: Non-removable Li-Po 1440 mAh battery

3) Motorola Moto X (2nd Gen)

Current Price: Rs 21,999 (for 16 GB) / ₹24,999 ( for 32 GB)

Display: 5.-inch AMOLED capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (424 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 801

Operating System: Android 4.4.4 KitKat, upgradable to Android 5.0 Lollipop

Memory: 16/32 GB internal memory and 2 GB RAM (no microSD card slot)

Camera: 13 MP main, 2 MP front snapper

Battery: 2300 mAh battery

4) Samsung Galaxy A7

Current Price: Rs 24,800

Display: 5.-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (401 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 615

Operating System: Android 4.4.4 KitKat, upgradable to Android 5.0.2 Lollipop

Memory: 16 GB internal memory expandable up to 64 GB via microSD card, 2 GB RAM

Camera: 13 MP main camera, 5 MP front snapper

Battery: Non-removable Li-Ion 2600 mAh battery

5) Sony Xperia C4 Dual

Current Price: Rs 23,200

Display: 5.5-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (401 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Mediatek MT6752 Processor

Operating System: Android 5.0 Lollipop

Memory: 16 GB internal memory expandable up to 128 GB via microSD card, 2 GB RAM

Camera: 13 MP main camera, 5 MP front snapper

Battery: Non-removable Li-Ion 2600 mAh battery

6) HTC Desire 826

Current Price: Rs 24,799

Display: 5.-inch Super LCD3 capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (401 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 615

Operating System: Android 5.0.1 Lollipop

Memory: 16 GB internal memory expandable up to 128 GB via microSD card, 2 GB RAM

Camera: 13 MP main camera, 13 MP main front snapper

Battery: Non-removable Li-Po 2600 mAh battery

7) Samsung Galaxy S5

Current Price: Rs 22,999

Display: 5.1-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (432 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 801

Operating System: Android 4.4.2 KitKat, upgradable up to Anroid 5.0 Lollipop

Memory: 16/32 GB internal memory expandable up to 128 GB, 2 GB RAM

Camera: 16 MP main camera, 2 MP secondary snapper

Battery: 2800 mAh battery

8) Huawei Honor 6 Plus

Current Price: Rs 24,999

Display: 5.5-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (401 ppi pixel density)

Processor: HiSilicon Kirin 925

Operating System: Android 4.4.2 KitKat

Memory: 32 GB internal storage expandable up to 128 GB via microSD card, 3 GB RAM

Camera: 8 MP main camera, 8 MP front snapper

Battery: Non-removable Li-Po 3600 mAh battery

9) Sony Xperia Z

Current Price: Rs 23,790

Display: 5.0-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels (441 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro

Operating System: Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, upgradable to Android 5.0.2 Lollipop

Memory: 16 GB internal memory expandable up to 64 GB via micoSD card, 2 GB RAM

Camera: 13.1 MP main camera, 2.2 MP front snapper

Battery: Non-removable Li-Ion 2330 mAh battery

10) Samsung Galaxy Note 2

Current Price: Rs 24,990

Display: 5.5-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen

Resolution: 720 x 1280 pixels (267 ppi pixel density)

Processor: Exynos 4412 Quad

Operating System: Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean, upgradable to Android 4.4.2 KitKat

Memory: 16/32/64 GB internal menory expandable up to 64 GB via microSD card, 2 GB RAM

Camera: 8 MP main camera, 1.9 MP secondary camera

Battery: 3100 mAh battery

Read more ...

4:22 AM 0

TIPS for using the INTERNET

The internet is a big place, and navigating it can be daunting. Try out our top tips for not getting lost in cyber-space.

1. Use internet search engines

Internet search engines are amongst the most useful tools at your disposal for finding information online, so use them. Rather than guessing the full addresses of websites, simply type the information into a search engine such as Google or Bing. Not only will this lead you to the information that you require, it will also broaden your search to include other relevant sites.

2. Bookmark pages

Found an amazing site the other day? Can’t remember the URL now? Always bookmark websites that you find interesting. Bookmarking creates a handy little shortcut in your toolbar to help you return to the site of interest with just a click of the mouse.

Different browsers have different ways of bookmarking pages, but they’re all usually accessed near the top of your browser. If you’re using Internet Explorer, look for the Favourites menu, if you’re using Chrome or Firefox look for the star symbol by the address bar. A simple click will do the rest. Alternatively, pressing CTRL and D on your keyboard, will bring up the bookmark menu whichever browser you are using.

Bookmark menu




When you want to revisit the page, simply go to your bookmark / favourite menu and you will find the page saved.

3. Upgrade your browser

Whilst there are merits to each of the main browsers, there’s no point in setting yourself at a disadvantage by operating a browser which is not up to date. If, for example, you’re operating Mozilla Firefox 8.0, check for any messages that pop up when you’re next using your browser. These messages will probably be offering you a free download to update you to the slicker, faster and more efficient Firefox 9. Keep an eye on these messages, they can mean the difference between operating a top of the range browser and a sluggish has-been.

4. User browser shortcuts

Browser shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Instead of finding and navigating the correct menu with your mouse, you could use a few simple keyboard shortcuts. Here are Simplifydigital’s top ten shortcuts that you should know about:

    CTRL  F: brings up a search box allowing you to search for a specific word on a page
    CTRL  D: bookmarks a page
    CTRL  P: prints whatever you have selected
    CTRL T: opens a new tab
    CTRL W: closes window
    CTRL +: zooms in
    CTRL -: zooms out
    Alt  Home: returns you to your homepage
    F5: refreshes or reloads the page that you are on
    F11: lets you toggle between full and regular screen mode, a particularly useful shortcut if you are using multiple windows

Get to know your browser shortcuts and surf the web more effectively.

5. Keep browser plugins updated

Browser plugins are handy pieces of downloadable software that help you to use various applications in conjunction with your browser. Watching a YouTube video? You’ll need a Flash plugin. Streaming some music? You’ll need a plugin for that too. Be sure to download the latest version whenever you are required to, failing to do so could hamper your browsing experience.

6. Use tabbed browsing

If your desktop is overflowing with browsing windows and you can’t remember which one contained the vital piece of information that you were searching for, maybe it’s time to use tabbed browsing. Tabbed browsing allows you to open various different websites in one browser window simply by using tabs. You can open a new tab by either clicking the symbol to the right of the last tab (see image) or by pressing CTRL T.

New tabs

7. Update your antivirus

Often overlooked until it’s too late, a good antivirus program can make the difference between a nice, healthy computer and one which is overflowing with all sorts of computer nasties. Always keep an eye on your antivirus software and ensure that all its components are in good working order. If not; download an update, it will be more than worth it. If you don’t have antivirus software, Simplifydigital recommends the free antivirus program Avast!.

8. Use ‘Tab’ to jump between fields




Whilst a mouse is an undeniably useful device, it’s not always necessary. In fact, not using a mouse can save you a great deal of time. If you’re filling in fields on a web page, rather than clicking on each field in order, simply press ‘Tab’; this will jump between the fields for you. Clicking tab enough times will cycle back to the beginning of the web-page. You can also use the up and down arrows to select things in drop down menus, saving you even more time.

9. Drop the http:// and www. prefixes

Whilst explaining to people that http stands for hyper text transfer protocol is undoubtedly a great way to win yourself some friends, putting it at the front of a web address is just an exercise in wasting time. Drop the http:// and www prefixes as they are simply not necessary. Instead, just type the remainder of the address and press enter. It will work, trust me.

10. Search direct from your browser




We’ve already covered search engines and how useful they can be to the modern internet browser, but typing in the address of a search engine can really eat up a lot of time. To create a truly streamlined browsing experience, why not access the search engine of your choice directly from your browser. You can do this in two ways; the first way is through a customisable home screen, like the one offered by Google, which gives you the option of having a search engine on your homepage. The other is by customising your browser to give you a search bar of your choice.

Drop down list of search engines

Use the browser options menu to do this. More advanced browsers will allow you to search eBay, YouTube, Amazon and a variety of other sites simply by selecting the appropriate search option in a drop down menu.

Those are our top ten tips. We hope that you found them useful. Happy surfing!

The internet is a big place, and navigating it can be daunting. Try out our top tips for not getting lost in cyber-space.
1. Use internet search engines
Internet search engines are amongst the most useful tools at your disposal for finding information online, so use them. Rather than guessing the full addresses of websites, simply type the information into a search engine such as Google or Bing. Not only will this lead you to the information that you require, it will also broaden your search to include other relevant sites.
2. Bookmark pages
Found an amazing site the other day? Can’t remember the URL now? Always bookmark websites that you find interesting. Bookmarking creates a handy little shortcut in your toolbar to help you return to the site of interest with just a click of the mouse.
Different browsers have different ways of bookmarking pages, but they’re all usually accessed near the top of your browser. If you’re using Internet Explorer, look for the Favourites menu, if you’re using Chrome or Firefox look for the star symbol by the address bar. A simple click will do the rest. Alternatively, pressing CTRL and D on your keyboard, will bring up the bookmark menu whichever browser you are using.

When you want to revisit the page, simply go to your bookmark / favourite menu and you will find the page saved.
3. Upgrade your browser
Whilst there are merits to each of the main browsers, there’s no point in setting yourself at a disadvantage by operating a browser which is not up to date. If, for example, you’re operating Mozilla Firefox 8.0, check for any messages that pop up when you’re next using your browser. These messages will probably be offering you a free download to update you to the slicker, faster and more efficient Firefox 9. Keep an eye on these messages, they can mean the difference between operating a top of the range browser and a sluggish has-been.
4. User browser shortcuts
Browser shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Instead of finding and navigating the correct menu with your mouse, you could use a few simple keyboard shortcuts. Here are Simplifydigital’s top ten shortcuts that you should know about:

• CTRL  F: brings up a search box allowing you to search for a specific word on a page
• CTRL  D: bookmarks a page
• CTRL  P: prints whatever you have selected
• CTRL T: opens a new tab
• CTRL W: closes window
• CTRL +: zooms in
• CTRL -: zooms out
• Alt  Home: returns you to your homepage
• F5: refreshes or reloads the page that you are on
• F11: lets you toggle between full and regular screen mode, a particularly useful shortcut if you are using multiple windows

Get to know your browser shortcuts and surf the web more effectively.
5. Keep browser plugins updated
Browser plugins are handy pieces of downloadable software that help you to use various applications in conjunction with your browser. Watching a YouTube video? You’ll need a Flash plugin. Streaming some music? You’ll need a plugin for that too. Be sure to download the latest version whenever you are required to, failing to do so could hamper your browsing experience.
6. Use tabbed browsing
If your desktop is overflowing with browsing windows and you can’t remember which one contained the vital piece of information that you were searching for, maybe it’s time to use tabbed browsing. Tabbed browsing allows you to open various different websites in one browser window simply by using tabs. You can open a new tab by either clicking the symbol to the right of the last tab (see image) or by pressing CTRL T.

7. Update your antivirus
Often overlooked until it’s too late, a good antivirus program can make the difference between a nice, healthy computer and one which is overflowing with all sorts of computer nasties. Always keep an eye on your antivirus software and ensure that all its components are in good working order. If not; download an update, it will be more than worth it. If you don’t have antivirus software, Simplifydigital recommends the free antivirus program Avast!.
8. Use ‘Tab’ to jump between fields
Whilst a mouse is an undeniably useful device, it’s not always necessary. In fact, not using a mouse can save you a great deal of time. If you’re filling in fields on a web page, rather than clicking on each field in order, simply press ‘Tab’; this will jump between the fields for you. Clicking tab enough times will cycle back to the beginning of the web-page. You can also use the up and down arrows to select things in drop down menus, saving you even more time.
9. Drop the http:// and www. prefixes
Whilst explaining to people that http stands for hyper text transfer protocol is undoubtedly a great way to win yourself some friends, putting it at the front of a web address is just an exercise in wasting time. Drop the http:// and www prefixes as they are simply not necessary. Instead, just type the remainder of the address and press enter. It will work, trust me.
10. Search direct from your browser
We’ve already covered search engines and how useful they can be to the modern internet browser, but typing in the address of a search engine can really eat up a lot of time. To create a truly streamlined browsing experience, why not access the search engine of your choice directly from your browser. You can do this in two ways; the first way is through a customisable home screen, like the one offered by Google, which gives you the option of having a search engine on your homepage. The other is by customising your browser to give you a search bar of your choice.

Use the browser options menu to do this. More advanced browsers will allow you to search eBay, YouTube, Amazon and a variety of other sites simply by selecting the appropriate search option in a drop down menu.
Those are our top ten tips. We hope that you found them useful. Happy surfing!
- See more at: http://digitalunite.com/guides/using-internet-0/searching-browsing/ten-top-tips-using-internet#sthash.qLcxh2dR.dpuf

The internet is a big place, and navigating it can be daunting. Try out our top tips for not getting lost in cyber-space.
1. Use internet search engines
Internet search engines are amongst the most useful tools at your disposal for finding information online, so use them. Rather than guessing the full addresses of websites, simply type the information into a search engine such as Google or Bing. Not only will this lead you to the information that you require, it will also broaden your search to include other relevant sites.
2. Bookmark pages
Found an amazing site the other day? Can’t remember the URL now? Always bookmark websites that you find interesting. Bookmarking creates a handy little shortcut in your toolbar to help you return to the site of interest with just a click of the mouse.
Different browsers have different ways of bookmarking pages, but they’re all usually accessed near the top of your browser. If you’re using Internet Explorer, look for the Favourites menu, if you’re using Chrome or Firefox look for the star symbol by the address bar. A simple click will do the rest. Alternatively, pressing CTRL and D on your keyboard, will bring up the bookmark menu whichever browser you are using.

When you want to revisit the page, simply go to your bookmark / favourite menu and you will find the page saved.
3. Upgrade your browser
Whilst there are merits to each of the main browsers, there’s no point in setting yourself at a disadvantage by operating a browser which is not up to date. If, for example, you’re operating Mozilla Firefox 8.0, check for any messages that pop up when you’re next using your browser. These messages will probably be offering you a free download to update you to the slicker, faster and more efficient Firefox 9. Keep an eye on these messages, they can mean the difference between operating a top of the range browser and a sluggish has-been.
4. User browser shortcuts
Browser shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Instead of finding and navigating the correct menu with your mouse, you could use a few simple keyboard shortcuts. Here are Simplifydigital’s top ten shortcuts that you should know about:

• CTRL  F: brings up a search box allowing you to search for a specific word on a page
• CTRL  D: bookmarks a page
• CTRL  P: prints whatever you have selected
• CTRL T: opens a new tab
• CTRL W: closes window
• CTRL +: zooms in
• CTRL -: zooms out
• Alt  Home: returns you to your homepage
• F5: refreshes or reloads the page that you are on
• F11: lets you toggle between full and regular screen mode, a particularly useful shortcut if you are using multiple windows

Get to know your browser shortcuts and surf the web more effectively.
5. Keep browser plugins updated
Browser plugins are handy pieces of downloadable software that help you to use various applications in conjunction with your browser. Watching a YouTube video? You’ll need a Flash plugin. Streaming some music? You’ll need a plugin for that too. Be sure to download the latest version whenever you are required to, failing to do so could hamper your browsing experience.
6. Use tabbed browsing
If your desktop is overflowing with browsing windows and you can’t remember which one contained the vital piece of information that you were searching for, maybe it’s time to use tabbed browsing. Tabbed browsing allows you to open various different websites in one browser window simply by using tabs. You can open a new tab by either clicking the symbol to the right of the last tab (see image) or by pressing CTRL T.

7. Update your antivirus
Often overlooked until it’s too late, a good antivirus program can make the difference between a nice, healthy computer and one which is overflowing with all sorts of computer nasties. Always keep an eye on your antivirus software and ensure that all its components are in good working order. If not; download an update, it will be more than worth it. If you don’t have antivirus software, Simplifydigital recommends the free antivirus program Avast!.
8. Use ‘Tab’ to jump between fields
Whilst a mouse is an undeniably useful device, it’s not always necessary. In fact, not using a mouse can save you a great deal of time. If you’re filling in fields on a web page, rather than clicking on each field in order, simply press ‘Tab’; this will jump between the fields for you. Clicking tab enough times will cycle back to the beginning of the web-page. You can also use the up and down arrows to select things in drop down menus, saving you even more time.
9. Drop the http:// and www. prefixes
Whilst explaining to people that http stands for hyper text transfer protocol is undoubtedly a great way to win yourself some friends, putting it at the front of a web address is just an exercise in wasting time. Drop the http:// and www prefixes as they are simply not necessary. Instead, just type the remainder of the address and press enter. It will work, trust me.
10. Search direct from your browser
We’ve already covered search engines and how useful they can be to the modern internet browser, but typing in the address of a search engine can really eat up a lot of time. To create a truly streamlined browsing experience, why not access the search engine of your choice directly from your browser. You can do this in two ways; the first way is through a customisable home screen, like the one offered by Google, which gives you the option of having a search engine on your homepage. The other is by customising your browser to give you a search bar of your choice.

Use the browser options menu to do this. More advanced browsers will allow you to search eBay, YouTube, Amazon and a variety of other sites simply by selecting the appropriate search option in a drop down menu.
Those are our top ten tips. We hope that you found them useful. Happy surfing!
- See more at: http://digitalunite.com/guides/using-internet-0/searching-browsing/ten-top-tips-using-internet#sthash.qLcxh2dR.dpuf

Read more ...

3:46 AM 0

How To Earn $100 Per Day With Google AdSense,

Earning $100, $200 or even $300 per day with Google AdSense is not an impossible job.

Many bloggers and website owners are doing it, and you are not an exception. The only thing you need is better planning and execution, hard work, determination and passion for blogging about your topic or niche.

Before diving into the exact process, let’s know some terminology for better understanding of Google AdSense and how you can generate more revenue by selling your ad inventories on your blog.

What Is AdSense: It’s a monetization program by Google for online content from websites, mobile sites, and site search results with relevant and engaging ads.

CTR : Your ad Click-through Rate is the number of ad clicks divided by the number of individual ad impressions. Suppose you are showing 3 AdSense ads on every page, your 1 page view is equal to 3 ad impressions.

CTR = Clicks / Ad Impressions X 100

Suppose, you get 5 clicks out of 500 ad impressions, your CTR would be 1% (5/500X100).

CPC : Cost-Per-Click is the revenue you earn each time a visitor clicks on your ad. CPC is usually determined by the advertisers. In some competitive niches like finance, marketing, online products etc. advertisers may be willing to pay more per click than others.

CPM: CPM means “Cost Per 1000 Impressions.”

Sometimes advertisers opt for CPM ads instead of CPC and set their price for 1000 ad impressions. And they pay each time their ads appear on any website.

Let’s Make $100 Everyday With Google AdSense, Right?

For the convenience of calculation we assume that – You serve your AdSense ads on your blog or website, irrespective of showing your ads on your mobile site and added the site search results with AdSense.

Your CTR is 1% and your average CPC is $0.25. It’s quite achievable and lots of bloggers usually get it. We also assume that Page View = Ad Impression for easy calculation. You can manipulate the parameters on your own for desired results.

• To make $100 everyday you need 40,000 Page Views/day Or, 400 Clicks a day @ 1% CTR and $0.25 CPC. For 40,000 Page Views you have to produce 500 awesome articles or blog posts which attract at least 80 or more page views/article everyday.

• Apart from CPC, you will also earn from your CPM ad impressions. Irrespective of any niche, the average CPM earning is $1 to $1.5 per 1,000 impressions. You can make $40 to $60 per day easily from 40,000 page views.

• You can also sell your Ad space directly or via BuySellAds.com and generate $6,000 Per Month on an average from 40,000 page views. Check out how webmasters and bloggers are making $6,000 to $8,000 Per Month fromBuySellAds with forty thousand page views per day. So your daily earning will be $200 (6000/30=200).

• A niche blog with high quality articles converts very well withaffiliate marketing. You can easily earn $40 to $80/day from affiliate selling with correct implementation and execution.

Now your total earning per day is $100 + $40 + $200 +$40 = $380 from CPC, CPM, Direct Ad Sell, Affiliate Marketing for 40,000 page views per day. I’ve taken the lowest possible earnings from all the 4 sources.

$380 per day means $11,400 per month (380X30= 11,400) Or,$136,800 per year (11,400X12=136,800). Isn’t it a whooping amount to lead a lavish life?

Which is well above your desired earning of $100 per day from Google AdSense, right? 1000s of bloggers are making money this way, and you can also do it. The only thing I want to say is “Be Focused!”

P.S. The above results can be possible if you produce at least 200 to 250 great articles or blog posts per year for 2 years. So how much traffic you actually need to make $100 per day from Google AdSense – It’s way less than 40,000 Page Views Per Day!

Read more ...

3:35 AM 0

Reasons Why You Should Upgrade to Windows 10

Unless you've been living under a rock for last few months, you're likely aware of the imminent release of Windows 10. Microsoft's latest desktop operating system will become available for upgrade/ purchase starting July 29. Not only is Windows 10 faster and more performance efficient, it also brings along a fleet of new exciting features. But if you're still not sure whether you should be making an upgrade later this week, here's a list of reasons that should convince you to jump ship when the day arrives.

Windows 8 didn't turn out to be the success Microsoft was hoping for. It boasted a bold new Metro user interface (since renamed to Modern UI) which didn't sit well with the users. With Windows 10, Microsoft is undoing several of the things that didn't work in Windows 8, while also adding some amazing new features and security capabilities. Here are some that will excite you.

1. Voice-based virtual assistant Cortana arrives on desktop platform

Formerly exclusively available on Windows Phone, Cortana is Microsoft's voice-based virtual assistant. Much like real life assistants, it will help you with your day-to-day activities. It sits right on the taskbar and on your instructions, and helps you find contextual information from the Web. Say you want to know the weather, you can count on Cortana for that. You want to know the traffic, it will not disappoint. It also feeds your appointments and other important tasks, and gives you a gentle reminder to make sure you don't show up late.

But that's not the most exciting part. You can have Cortana help you write emails without ever clicking on your grumpish email client. You can dictate it what you want to write and who you want the email to be sent to, and consider the work done. Cortana also syncs with your mobile devices and gleans information from them to make sure it has everything covered. You don't need a Windows Phone to pair it with your computer as Cortana is arriving on Android and iOS operating systems later. In fact, an Android beta version of it got leaked earlier this month.

2. Start Menu is making a return

Microsoft clipped out Start Menu when it released Windows 8. The go-to menu for apps was replaced with Start Screen, which much like the Modern UI, was largely aimed at touchscreen capable devices. The uproar and outcry from users that began three years ago has led Microsoft to re-introduce this handy tool back to the desktop platform, but not without a revamp.

The new Start Menu looks better, and also supports customisation - like the ability to resize Start Menu's window space. Another interesting feature is the addition of Live Tiles, which as you may remember from Windows Phone, is essentially a constantly updating large icons. It continues to retrieve feeds from its corresponding app. For instance, the icon for a weather app displays weather information without needing you to click on it.

3. Because it's much more secure

Windows 10, much like all its predecessors, brings new security advancements. A new facial recognition feature called Microsoft Hello, for instance, will let you log in to your computer without ever typing in your password. Microsoft Hello - using your computer's digital camera - recognises you and automatically completes the authentication process.

But that's not all. In the new operating system, users also get Device Guard and Microsoft Passport features. Device Guard lets organisations lock down devices in a way that provides advanced malware protection against new and unknown malware. This feature is company's security measure against zero days, security vulnerabilities that aren't known to the vendor. Microsoft Passport is a tool for software developers to provide users with a more secure way of signing-in to a website or an app.

4. Xbox games mirroring

Windows 10 isn't only about productivity. The company is baking in a new capability to the desktop OS which will let users mirror their Xbox One titles and play it on their computer. Microsoft says that one can also set up multiplayer games from their PC against other players on Xbox.

5. Microsoft Edge

Windows 10 also marks the arrival of Edge, Microsoft's new desktop browser. Unlike Internet Explorer, the browser we all love to hate, Edge is surprisingly fast. Microsoft claims that Edge is faster than Chrome. In a blog post, it noted that Edge is 112 percent faster than Chrome on WebKit Sunspider benchmark; 37 percent faster on Apple's JetStream benchmarks; and 11 percent faster on Google's own Octane benchmarks.

But speed isn't the only strong suite of Edge. It also lets you annotate webpages in real time, and then easily share notes and doodled pages with your friends. It also has deep integration with Cortana.

6. Seamless transition between tablet and desktop mode

Addressing the growing tablet and 2-in-1 hybrid market, Microsoft is offering a feature called Continuum that lets users switch back and forth between the two different modes. As soon as one hinges the keyboard out of their hybrid machine, it automatically switches to the tablet mode - begins to support touch as the primary input.

7. More productivity

There are several more tools that users will find useful. Virtual Desktops, for instance, lets users organise their desktop in a much more efficient way. In a way, it overcomes the lack of second monitor for many. It allows users to create different virtual desktop spaces, that can be used to arrange similar work together. For instance, one can have different and separate virtual desktops for work, and non-work related activities.

To add a new desktop, one only needs to click the Task View button on the taskbar, and click the "new desktop" button. The company says that there's no limitations to how many desktops one can create.

Users will also like the Action Centre (Notification Hub) available on the right corner of task bar. It  gleans notifications from every app and showcases all of them at one place.

8. It's free

There's no denying that a new operating system improves performance speed, and brings along more stability and security features. So even if you're not psyched about the new features, and the fresh paint job isn't cutting it for you, the fact that acquiring a copy of the new operating system won't cost you a dime should be deemed worthy of making an upgrade.

Microsoft has already announced that Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users will be able to upgrade to the new version of its desktop operating system for absolutely no sum of money. Even if you don't own a licensed copy of its Windows 7 (and up), you can experience Windows 10's pleasantries for free, as long as you have a Microsoft account (an email account with Outlook or Live, which is free to make).

Read more ...

3:30 AM 0

How to Download and Install Windows 10

Windows 10, Microsoft's latest desktop operating system will become available for purchase and upgrade starting on Wednesday. If you're convinced you want to move to Windows 10, here's how you can obtain and install the new operating system. 
Windows 10 is a free upgrade for Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 users, but those running older versions may have to buy a copy. Depending on the operating system your computer is currently on, the process to obtain and install Windows 10 could differ a little. If you are unsure about it, here's a guide to help you out. 

You are upgrading from Windows 7 or Windows 8.x
As mentioned earlier, Windows 10 is a free upgrade if you are running Windows 7 or Windows 8.x. Here's how you can upgrade: 
1. Open Windows Update (search for Windows Update in Start Menu or Start Screen). 
2. If your computer is eligible, you'll see the option to upgrade to Windows 10. 
In some cases, like in Windows 7, you may need to first download the SP1 update, before going to Windows 10. Do note that this could take a while.

In case you don't see any update, you will need to manually reserve a copyof Windows 10. You can do so by following these simple steps.

Once done, your computer will automatically begin to download the new updates and get you to the new operating system. Agree to all Microsoft's terms in the following prompts.

You purchase Windows 10 from a retail store (preferred option for Windows XP users)
1. Plug-in the Windows 10 USB drive to your computer or Insert Windows 10 disc to the DVD drive.
2. Reboot your computer.
3. Alter the standard boot preference to boot from your USB or DVD drive. You can do so by pressing the Esc key or F1 key before the booting process begins. It could vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer.
4. Press any key to continue, and select Next on the following screen.
5. Click Install.
6. Select the first option if you prefer to keep your existing operating system and files. Select Custom if you want to replace your system's existing operating system with Windows 10.

(Also see:  Windows 10 Shares Wi-Fi Passwords With Your Contacts - Here's How to Disable It) 

In case if you're going with the second option, you will need to either install Windows 10 on existing partition, or delete one and then create a new partition first. In either case, you will find the options on your screen. Click Next when you're done.

Your computer has begin the installation of Windows 10. The process could take up to 20 minutes. 

You're using Windows 10 Developer Preview
You don't need to do anything. Microsoft will automatically download the latest update to your system and move you to the latest version of Windows 10. How did you download and install Windows 10? Was your experience smooth or did you face issues? Let us know via the comments.

Read more ...

3:28 AM 0

The Biggest Mistakes 20-Something Job Seekers Make

  
There was the young job seeker who showed up at his interview 15 minutes late, failed to apologize, and then asked if the interviewer had a garbage can so he could throw away his gum. There was also the 20-something applicant whose call to the hiring manager went dead in the middle of the conversation. The young woman didn’t call back for two hours, only to explain, without apology, that she had dropped her phone in a tub of water while she was getting a manicure. Then there was the mother who called her son’s boss when he wasn’t hired at the end of his internship, and demanded to know why.

Dani Ticktin Koplik, 59, an executive and performance coach in Englewood, NJ, has lots of stories like these. For the last several years, half of Koplik’s coaching practice has been made up of so-called Generation Y, or Millennial, job seekers. This group, age 20-32, makes a series of job-searching mistakes that stem from their sense of entitlement, lack of deference to authority and over-involvement by their parents. Koplik says in her own practice, parents frequently call and email, and try to micro-manage the coaching process. To run interference, Koplik schedules a monthly meeting with parents, mostly to tell them to stop meddling. She also coaches them to give their kids a consistent message.  Too many parents tell their offspring that they have to earn a living, and then let them live at home indefinitely rent-free. Koplik recommends timetables and limits.
I asked Koplik for a list of mistakes her 20-something clients make, and she had plenty of ideas. Here is her list of the top ten.

1.  Acting entitled

One of the consequences of over-involved parents is that young people feel as though they deserve an easy ride. Koplik tells of an intern who, on the first day, informed his supervisor that he had to leave early that Thursday for a horseback riding lesson. “It didn’t dawn on this person that he was being totally inappropriate and sabotaging his career,” says Koplik.

2. Starting the process too late

Ideally, college students should start looking for meaningful internships for the summer after their freshman year. Students who assume that they will get a job without too much effort, wait too long to begin the process.

3. Under-utilizing the alumni network

Though parents and their friends can provide good contacts, the network of professionals that comes through a college or university should be one of the first places a young job seeker turns.

4. Using a résumé that’s sloppy and too self-centered

Young job seekers are often weak on résumé basics, like clear, tidy layout, careful proofreading for grammar and punctuation, and use of keywords from the job description. Another big problem: the “objective” section tends to be too much about what they want, and not enough about the potential employer. For example, young applicants often say, “entry level position where I can use my skills, ideas and enthusiasm and I can learn a lot.” Instead, the emphasis should be on what they can contribute to the employer. Applicants should also leave off menial jobs like camp counselor, unless they can quantify their achievements, like saying they organized waterfront activities for a group of 150 campers.

5. Writing cover letters that repeat the résumé

Many young applicants regurgitate their résumé accomplishments in their cover letters. Instead, cover letters should be short and vivid, and say something particular about what the applicant can bring to the job.

6. Doing poor research

Young job seekers often just glance at a company website before an interview. Instead they should read everything on the site, search for news clippings about the company, and track social media information, like Twitter feeds, on company managers.

7. Failing to clean up their social media profile

All of those drunken, bikini-clad pictures on Facebook should be removed, or locked down with privacy settings. Everyone, including college students, needs a polished LinkedIn profile.

8. Not showing enough appreciation for the interviewer

Young applicants often fail to conclude an interview with an expression of gratitude for the interviewer’s time. Always thank the interviewer in person, make it clear you would consider it a privilege to work at the company and ask about the next step in the process. Then follow up with a handwritten thank-you note or email that references specifics discussed in the interview.

9. Failing to show generational deference

Koplik tells of the summer intern who, at the end of his time on the job, marched into the office of the chief diversity officer at a big company and said, “Could I give you some feedback on my internship?” Young people are so used to being included in conversations, they fail to grasp their position in the pecking order.

10. Relying too heavily on listings and job fairs

I write this in every article about job search mistakes, because it’s a chronic problem. Koplik says that young job seekers are just as guilty of spending too much time applying to online listings, and through anonymous job fairs, as their more senior peers. We say this over and over: People find jobs through people they know, rather than through advertisements. If you see a listing for a job, try to find a personal connection to the employer and use that as your entry point.

Read more ...

11:51 PM 0