windows 8.1
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Google will end Chrome support on Windows 7 and 8.1 in early 2023
You'll still be able to use older builds of the browser on those operating systems, but you'll need a more recent version of Windows to keep getting feature and security updates.
Kris Holt10.25.2022
Microsoft OneDrive app will stop syncing with Windows 7 and 8 on March 1st, 2022
Microsoft will disable OneDrive syncing with Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 PCs on March 1st, 2022.
Jon Fingas11.06.2021
Microsoft ends support for Windows 7 today
It's the end of the road for Windows 7. After 10 years of support, Microsoft is ending security updates for the operating system today. This means that if you're still using it you'll be vulnerable to bugs, and any problems that arise won't be fixed (unless you're part of a company that's paid for extended support, in which case you're good until 2023).
Rachel England01.14.2020
Microsoft now rolling out free Windows 10 upgrades
Today's the day! Windows 10 is now available in 190 countries as a free upgrade to Windows 7 or 8.1 owners. Replacing an OS is no one's idea of fun, but we're actually looking forward to this one. First off, we'll be leaving behind the most hated version of Windows ever (sorry, Vista). In return, we'll get one Microsoft was so confident in that they skipped version 9 altogether because hey, Windows 10 sounds better. So how to get it? We've got a handy guide, and Microsoft has info here, but if you already reserved your free upgrade, hang in there, as Microsoft says it's rolling out in waves.
Steve Dent07.29.2015
VLC media player welcomes a new, cleaner look on Windows 8.1
No doubt, people love utilizing VLC's applications to play their unconventional media files, but pairing nice looks with that great functionality can go a long way. Thankfully for Windows 8.1 users, VideoLAN, the maker of VLC, has just released a completely redesigned version of the app for Microsoft's OS. The application now features a much brighter, cleaner and polished look than on previous iterations, making it look flatter and more in line with Windows 8's Modern UI. As WinBeta points out, the revamped VLC player is designed only for the tile-based side of the platform, meaning it won't work with that traditional Windows desktop you love so much.
Edgar Alvarez10.03.2014
Feedback Loop: UI annoyances, remotes and speed-reading apps!
Happy Saturday! Welcome to another edition of Feedback Loop! This week we're talking about those minor user interface quirks that just really grind our gears. Once you're done letting the hate flow, find out whether or not speed-reading apps are worth your time and let people know if you actually use your smartphone as a remote. So get comfy and grab some coffee. Then tell us what works for you and get some advice from fellow readers.
Frank Spinillo08.30.2014
Microsoft and Intel's latest development board will cost you $300
Intel may reign supreme in the desktop and laptop space, but ARM is eating its lunch almost everywhere else. That's not something the chipmaker can ignore, which is why it's having another crack at the hobby / developer market with Sharks Cove. The board, designed with Microsoft, has the stated aim of helping developers build apps and drivers for Windows and Android devices that use Intel chips. Since it's also available for everyone else to buy, it could also be quietly positioned as a more powerful alternative to boards like Arduino and Raspberry Pi. Unfortunately, as with the NUC, there's a catch: the board will retail for $300.
Daniel Cooper07.29.2014
Microsoft's 'Project Spark' game creator headed for October release
Microsoft's Project Spark has already been available to early testers for the better part of four months, but gamers have been kept in the dark over when it'll finally go on general sale. Until today. The company has announced that the retail version of its game-creation title will hit Xbox One and PC in October as part of a phased worldwide rollout. It'll be available first in the Americas on October 7th, then make its way to Asia-Pacific countries on October 9th before hitting Europe on October 10th. Microsoft is pricing the Project Spark Starter Pack for Xbox One at $39.99/£29.99 and will include packs full of sounds, effects, animations, props and "advanced creator features" that will help you create a virtual world that you (and hopefully others) can be proud of. It'll also feature the first sci-fi pack Galaxies: First Contact, Champions Quest: Void Storm, special characters and the first episode of what the developers are calling an "epic campaign adventure." The good news is that there's plenty of time enjoy the open beta , check the source links below to get involved (and earn achievements in the process).
Matt Brian07.09.2014
Revamped iPlayer app for Windows Phone adds live TV but drops radio
Windows Phone users typically have to wait longer for apps and updates than their iOS and Android counterparts, but the latest BBC iPlayer rollout tips things back in Microsoft's favour. As part of its ongoing iPlayer revamp, the Beeb has pushed live an new version of the Windows Phone app, delivering up-to-date channel pages, themed programme collections and clearer categories. On top of that, the app has a new media player that automatically delivers the best quality streams depending on a user's connection. Windows Phone users will also be able to watch live TV for the first time, but the feature comes at a cost. Radio content will no longer be available after the BBC decided to cut the option in order to offer "the best TV viewing experience in iPlayer." The good news is that the iPlayer Radio team expects to release a new app with "an optimised listening experience," meaning users won't have to go too long without access to The Archers.
Matt Brian05.27.2014
Daily Roundup: interview with Felix Baumgartner, Apple announces WWDC 2014 and more!
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
Andy Bowen04.03.2014
Bing Maps Preview now lets you explore more cities in 3D
Microsoft's been hard at work on enhancing the Bing Maps experience within Windows 8.1, and it all started with the release of a preview application last year. With one of the focus areas being 3D exploring, Bing has announced that Maps Preview can now provide a 360-degree view of 15 more cities, both from the US and abroad. Here in the States, this includes Montgomery, Alabama; San Francisco, California; Tallahassee, Florida; and Seattle, Washington, to mention a few. Meanwhile, in Europe, Bing has added 3D mapping access to Duisburg and Dresden in Germany, as well as Marbella and Murcia in Spain. The Redmond-based outfit says we can expect the list to keep growing, too, as it is always working to support additional places.
Edgar Alvarez02.24.2014
Windows 8 sales pass the 200 million mark, still trail Windows 7's success
Back in May, Microsoft announced over 100 million sales of Windows 8, but how much progress has the software made now that we're in 2014? Today the company reported shipment of more than 200 million Windows 8 licenses. As usual, Microsoft didn't specify whether or not that figure includes Windows RT licenses as well. Naturally, those numbers mean nothing without context. Compared to Windows 7 sales a few years back, the latest-gen operating system is lagging. Windows 7 passed the 240 million mark within its first 12 months on the market, while Windows 8 is just hitting 200 million after more than 15 months of availability. Several reasons factor into Windows 8's slower pace -- among them lackluster sales of Microsoft's Surface tablets and a shortage of touch- and tablet-optimized apps. The company hasn't said much about the upcoming Windows 8.1 Update 1, but rumors point to better compatibility with budget tablets and an interface that favors the classic desktop over the Start screen. Look for that update to hit the market in April.
Sarah Silbert02.13.2014
Microsoft starts selling ASUS' VivoTab Note 8 for $329
ASUS, like many other companies, took to CES 2014 to introduce a number of new products. Among these was the often-leaked VivoTab Note 8, an 8-inch Windows 8.1 tablet with support for Wacom pen input. If you were remotely intrigued back then, it looks as if Microsoft has now (quietly) placed it up for grabs in the US. Currently, Redmond's online store is selling the 32GB model of ASUS' VivoTab Note 8 for $329, which is slightly different than the $299 price tag it was announced with in Las Vegas. Strangely enough, there's also no apparent sight of the 64GB flavor, which makes us think that this Bay Trail-powered, pen-friendly slate may have been listed ahead of time. Regardless, it's very much available here -- at least for the time being. [Thanks, Phillip]
Edgar Alvarez02.10.2014
Panasonic intros CF-MX3 convertible laptop with Yoga-like design, built-in DVD drive
The category of laptop/tablet hybrids is one of the favorites among Windows PC manufacturers, including the Japan-based Panasonic. Accordingly, the Toughbook maker hosted a conference in the Land of the Rising Sun recently, where it took the time to reveal its new CF-MX3 convertible laptop. This adjustable machine comes with a 12.5-inch, 1,920 x 1,080 LCD, a removable battery that can last between 14 to 15 hours, Windows 8.1, pen support and a built-in DVD drive -- yes, a DVD drive. The entry-level CF-MX3 features a 2.6GHz Core i5-4200U CPU, 4GB RAM and a 128GB SSD, while there's also an option with double the memory and storage, a 3.0GHz Core i7-4500U CPU and a Pro version of Microsoft's OS. Furthermore, Panasonic loaded the MX3 with a ton of ports, such as two USB 3.0, HDMI, VGA and an SD card reader; all in all, it weighs in at roughly 2.65 pounds. Pricing details for Panasonic's CF-MX3 convertible are still unknown, though we do know it'll be available in Japan starting February 14th. [Thanks, Siegfried]
Edgar Alvarez01.17.2014
Here's a closer look at that dual-boot Android/Windows 8.1 tablet
Remember that combo Android/Windows 8.1 tablet that we spoke about briefly, earlier today? Well, it's just dual-booted its way into our hearts here at CES. Those initial pictures weren't really all that much to look at, and honestly, we didn't have the highest expectations in the world, given Micromax's track record of producing budget handsets. But after playing around with it for a bit, we've got to admit, this is a pretty solidly built machine at first glance, complete with a classy brushed-aluminum back and a decent snap-on keyboard. That said, the boot speed on the tablet leaves a bit to be desired, particularly when logging into Android. Those aching for something new can pick up a LapTap next month.
Brian Heater01.07.2014
SlingPlayer app arrives for Windows 8, costs $15 after free trial runs out
If you happen to own a Slingbox media streamer and a Windows 8.1/RT device, it's your lucky day. After announcing last month that a SlingPlayer app for Windows was on the way, it's now in the Windows Store, ready for download. Like the iOS and Android versions, which have been out for quite some time, users can take advantage of mobile DVR control and watch either live or recorded TV on their device. Slingbox owners will receive a free, 24-hour trial, but will need to cough up $15 to continue using it.
Andy Bowen12.13.2013
Engadget Giveaway: win one of two Dell Venue 8 Pro tablets courtesy of Mint!
It's always a good idea to keep track of your finances, but since the holidays tend to open up the cash flow floodgates, having some extra help couldn't hurt. As luck would have it, the personal finance gurus over at Mint are celebrating the app's arrival on Windows 8.1 and Windows Phone 8 by giving away two Dell Venue 8 Pro tablets to a couple of Engadget readers. This 8-inch slate is fully compatible with Mint's free app, making it a great way to monitor account activity, track spending and even get suggestions on how to save more of those hard-earned dollars. So before all that cyber spending blows a hole in your wallet, consider quantifying those expenses with Mint and head on down to the Rafflecopter widget below for your chance to win. Winners - Congratulations to: Mitch M., Lafayette, LA and Carlo C., Las Vegas, NV
Jon Turi12.10.2013
Microsoft cuts Surface Pro prices by a further $100, now starting at $699
With the next-generation Surface now on sale in 21 countries, Microsoft probably needs to clear out whatever Surface Pros are still lingering in warehouses. As such, the company has taken $100 off both its 64GB and 128GB Pro slates, bringing their base prices to $699 and $799, respectively. According to the fine print, the discount is only available to customers in the US and Canada and will stay in place until December 31st, or likely when the units sell out, whichever comes first. While it's not the biggest price drop, it mirrors the company's $100 reduction back in August and gives those on the fence 200 (dollar) reasons to consider it over the new Surface Pro 2. [Thanks, Jason!]
Matt Brian10.24.2013
Microsoft details updated Mail app for Windows 8.1 with Outlook.com integration
Microsoft has been making a big push with its Outlook.com email service since migrating all of its Hotmail users there, and it's now also set to more deeply integrate the service into Windows 8.1. The company has detailed a number of updates to the operating system's Mail app in a blog post today -- something first promised at its BUILD conference this summer -- which will see the app brought in line with a number of features that have so far remained exclusive to the web-based offering. That includes automatic sorting of newsletters and social updates, Outlook's so-called Sweep feature for organizing email, as well as automatic syncing across devices with Exchange ActiveSync. Outside of those Outlook-related features, the app will now also let you finally drag-and-drop messages into folders, and Microsoft says that the entire app has been optimized for use on a tablet. You can find a full rundown of all the new features on Microsoft's Windows Experience Blog.
Donald Melanson10.03.2013
The Daily Roundup for 07.08.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
David Fishman07.08.2013