Xbox App now allows you to directly share and download clips

This was one of the most-requested features.

It's no secret that sharing game clips isn't exactly easy on Xbox One. First you have to record the footage, then edit it in Upload Studio, and then post it on Xbox Live. There are websites out there that allow you to download your saved game clips to your computer, but the process is still not that user friendly. Microsoft has been working on a way to improve this, and it looks like those efforts are finally producing results.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2Wzdghr
via IFTTT

Best Xbox One games releasing between February 4-8

Be on the lookout for these titles.

Every week, numerous games launch on Xbox One, but which ones really stand out? Here are some of the biggest and most anticipated titles launching across Microsoft's platforms next week.

Next week we have one new "AAA" release Xbox One, but there are still a few surprises here and there. Notably, Astroneer is finally launching out of Xbox Game Preview, and Salt and Sanctuary offers an interesting take on the popular genre. With that in mind, here are all the best games launching next week, between February 4 to February 8, 2019.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2BabhHq
via IFTTT

What's the deal with upgrading RAM in Lenovo's IdeaPad 730S?

Best answer: No, the RAM in Lenovo's IdeaPad 730S cannot be upgraded. Despite being able to remove the back panel and access the laptop's internal hardware, all models come with RAM soldered to the motherboard. You can, however, upgrade the M.2 PCIe solid-state drive (SSD) with relative ease.

Lenovo: IdeaPad 730S (From $720)

Why can't the RAM be upgraded in the Lenovo IdeaPad 730S?

No easy RAM access here due to the large cooling system and battery. In any case, it's soldered onto the motherboard.

In most cases, laptop manufacturers cut costs and save space by not providing a RAM module or connector that allows for sticks to be swapped in and out. When you consider the IdeaPad 730S — a relatively affordable laptop that's just a half-inch thick with the lid closed — these reasons make a lot of sense.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2HKw7CU
via IFTTT

Echo owners can try Amazon Music free for four whole months right now

Exactly zero dollars.

Amazon is offering Echo owners four months of Amazon Music Unlimited for free. That'd normally cost you $40, but there's a catch. You have to be a new user to the service.

Amazon Music Unlimited gets you access to millions of songs. You can listen offline, skip as many times as you want, and listen hands-free using your Alexa device.

Note that the subscription automatically renews at the $7.99 per month rate for Prime members or $9.99 for non-Prime Members unless you cancel it beforehand. Cancellation is easy; just go to your Amazon Subscription Settings.

If you don't have an Echo device, you can still try Amazon Music Unlimited for free, albeit for a shorter time period.

Wondering how Amazon Music Unlimited stacks up against Spotify? Android Central has you covered. Oh, and if you think you'll prefer Spotify, there's a deal on that too.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2SiNkrb
via IFTTT

Skype Insiders get personalized emoticons in latest update

Why stick with a boring old smiley when you can be a stoked monkey instead?

Skype Insiders are getting a small, but entertaining, update today.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2DMev5B
via IFTTT

EA releases chart to explain confusing Anthem early access requirements

Why can't it be simpler?

Anthem is an upcoming shared world third-person shooter from BioWare. BioWare is the studio behind famous franchises like Dragon Age and Mass Effect. Anthem is expected to launch on February 22, 2019, but that hasn't stopped the developer from releasing new details about the project.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2DLprAl
via IFTTT

Upgrade your computer with the SanDisk SSD Plus 960GB down to a low price

Upgrade today.

The SanDisk SSD Plus 960GB solid state drive is down to $119.99 with code SAVESSD36 at Newegg. Without the code, the SSD sells for $128 and it has never gone lower than that even on Amazon.

The SSD Plus is SanDisk's entry-level SSD. It's built using SanDisk's MLC NAND, which is unusual for an inexpensive SSD like this. You'd expect it to be built with TLC, which is usually cheaper. MLC is also more reliable than TLC and can withstand more read/write cycles. That's all good stuff for anyone interested in this device. SanDisk says this drive has read and write speeds of 535 MB/s and 450 MB/s. It is also shock and vibration resistant and comes with a three-year warranty. Users give this series 4.4 stars based on 1,707 reviews

See at Newegg

.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2DM2NrP
via IFTTT

Corsair's popular K70 LUX RGB MK.2 mechanical keyboard is $60 off right now

This well-reviewed keyboard features customizable backlighting and so much more.

The Corsair K70 LUX RGB MK.2 mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX Brown switches is down to $99.99 on Amazon, marking its lowest price yet there. The version with Cherry MX Red switches is on sale for $100 today as well. These are popular keyboards which only rarely drop in price.

Corsair's K70 keyboard is built with aircraft-grade brushed aluminum. It has large font keycaps and advanced lighting controls for dynamic backlighting. There are advanced macros and light programming options. The Cherry MX RGB Brown key switches have gold contacts for fast presses. There's also anti-ghosting and full key rollover so none of your actions get lost, no matter how fast you're pressing the keys. Users give it 4.5 stars based on nearly 200 reviews.

See at Amazon

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2Sg3fqi
via IFTTT

Sunless Skies is a fantastic space RPG... with trains?

Sunless Skies is a wild, mysterious RPG that blends together a plethora of traits from multiple genres. The result is something unique, engaging, and incredibly fun.

Imagine this: on the cusp of the 20th century, the British Empire takes to the cosmos. Using unique flying locomotives, its people set out to explore the galaxy and carve out a new frontier for the future. Pirates, hostile life forms, and a handful of different factions inhabit this universe — but most important of all are the Judgements, special god-like beings that take the form of stars. Something is wiping them out, though, and you, as a captain of your own crew and space train, have the choice of investigating their deaths, using their downfall as an opportunity to expand British control, or simply ignoring it all and paving the way for your own future.

That, in summary, is the experience that Sunless Skies offers. And while it may seem convoluted and insane, the reality is that Sunless Skies offers one of the most engaging and expansive role-playing game (RPG) experiences in all of gaming.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2HL031N
via IFTTT

Stanley's discounted power inverter includes an AC outlet and two USB ports

Add more functionality to your car.

The Stanley FatMax PCI140 140W dual-USB AC outlet power inverter is just $11.42 on Amazon. Normally, this inverter sells for around $15 and sometimes as high as $18. Today's price is one of the best we've ever seen and the first real deal on it since last year.

Turn your car's cigarette lighter into a 120 volt AC outlet and two USB charging ports. The 140W inverter can charge plenty of small electronics, like your smartphone or tablet. It has a low voltage, fan free design with an automatic shut off, so it's very quiet and worry free. You don't have to worry about it draining your car's battery for example just because you left it there. It comes with a mounting kit so you can find a good spot for it, and it has a quick release. Stanley backs it up with a one-year warranty,

See on Amazon

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2sYCjwQ
via IFTTT

Get noise-cancelling and $10 off with Cowin's E7 Bluetooth headphones

Get lost in the music.

The Cowin E7 active noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones are down to $49.99 on Amazon thanks to a $10 off on-page coupon. These headphones regularly sell around $60, and we haven't seen a deal on them since last year's holiday shopping season. The price is only good on the black version as the other colors are all selling for $73.

These headphones have active noise reduction technology that helps reduce all that ambient noise around you while you're on a plane, in a car, or just trying to drown out your obnoxious co-workers. The noise-cancellation works in both wired and wireless mode. The 40mm drivers deliver big sound and powerful bass. The built-in mic works for hands-free calls. There's also NFC pairing in addition to the Bluetooth. In wireless mode you can get up to 30 hours of playtime. The headphones come with an 18-month warranty.

See on Amazon

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2DKacHW
via IFTTT

These rugged cases for Surface Pro can take a serious beating

We're big fans of the Surface Pro line of tablets and have tested numerous protective cases to keep the devices safe from harm, allowing us to recommend the best options for your Surface Pro.

The Urban Armor Gear Metropolis is everything you'll need to keep your Surface Pro safe and looking like new. Not only does this case offer protection for the tablet, but comes rocking a kickstand and doesn't add too much in terms of weight.

Our pick

Urban Armor Gear Metropolis

• $65 from Amazon

Protect your valuable Surface Pro tablet with UAG

What makes the Metropolis from UAG worth the money is the non-slip grip material that snaps tightly around your Pro, and despite its ruggedness doesn't add a lot of weight. The handy kickstand on the back can also be used in five different positions.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2wWO3Bp
via IFTTT

SteamWorld Dig 2 joins Xbox Play Anywhere

Now you can play SteamWorld Dig 2 anywhere.

Recently, SteamWorld Dig 2 launched on Xbox One without my fanfare. The game takes you on a platform mining adventure forged in Metroidvania flames. When an old trading town is struck by mysterious earthquakes, it's up to a lone "steambot" and her unlikely companion to uncover what trembling terrors lie beneath. You must dig your way underground and explore vivid worlds riddled with treasure, secrets, and traps. However, keep in mind that you'll combat dangerous enemies at every turn of the underworld's twisted paths, including shadowy creatures and the haunted remains of an ancient threat.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2BdOZoi
via IFTTT

Everyone can play Xbox Live multiplayer this weekend

Give it a go.

Today, Microsoft announced that Xbox One or Xbox 360 owners without Xbox Live Gold can play multiplayer without the need for an active subscription from January 31 to February 3, 2019. If you don't have a subscription, this is a great way to play online games with your friends. Fortnite is by far the biggest game on any platform right now, so be sure to give it a go!

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2CVV3ld
via IFTTT

MAINGEAR outs two new Pulse laptops with GeForce RTX graphics

MAINGEAR Pulse 15

The Pulse 15 and Pulse 17 pack plenty of power for gamers and content creators alike.

MAINGEAR today took the wraps off of its latest pair of laptops, the Pulse 15 and Pulse 17.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2ShOFyu
via IFTTT

Where’s the best place to buy the Samsung 970 EVO Plus?

Best answer: The Samsung 970 EVO Plus isn't shipping in North America until February but the best place to get an order in now is Amazon.

Amazon: Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB ($130)

Available in North America in February

The good news is that you can buy the Samsung 970 EVO Plus from Amazon in different parts of the world. That means its easy to get hold of and Prime members will get free speedy shipping.

The bad news is that in North America, at least, there's a little wait to get hold of one. Shipping is set to start in mid-February, but you can get your pre-order in now. Prices start at $90 for the base model.

Shipping in Europe now

Eager buyers in Europe are a little more fortunate as they can already secure themselves a 970 EVO Plus through Amazon.

The 2TB model isn't available anywhere until April, but there are 250GB, 500GB, and 1TB versions to choose from.

500GB is the sweet spot

For most people, we recommend the 500GB version of the 970 EVO Plus as the sweet spot of price, capacity, and performance. With read speeds up to 3,500 MB/s and write speeds up to 3,300 MB/s, this is the fastest all-round SSD right now and worth waiting a little while to get your hands on.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2Uw2SW2
via IFTTT

Windows Template Studio 3.0 arrives with handful of useful additions

The latest tweaks make it easier to generate code "as a multi-project solution."

Microsoft today pushed out version 3.0 of its open-source Windows Template Studio, bringing a handful of tweaks for developers to check out.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2MIpZtT
via IFTTT

Lego Batman 2 and Port Royale 3 join Xbox backward compatibility

Lego Batman is absolutely hilarious!

Ever since Xbox One backward compatibility was announced, gamers have been asking for a few high-profile games. While the majority of requests revolve around the Call of Duty franchise, the Lego franchise has been other hot series. Today, Microsoft announced that Lego Batman 2: DC Super Heroes and Port Royale 3: Pirates and Merchants are now backward compatible.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2MJ4w3Y
via IFTTT

Chuwi's UBook hits Kickstarter with budget price, Surface Go looks

Chuwi is taking to Kickstarter to fund its latest budget tablet.

Chuwi is well-known at this point for putting together a range of budget laptops and tablets that, while they may lack in raw power, mimic some of their more expensive cousins in looks. ,!--break--> With its latest offering, the Chuwi UBook, the company is heading to Kickstarter with a low-cost tablet with a detachable keyboard that looks eerily like Microsoft's own Surface Go.

Kicking off with an early-bird backer price of $350 for the base version (regularly $470), the UBook can be combined with a detachable, backlit keyboard and includes a kickstand around its rear.

As for specs, you're looking at an Intel Core M3-6Y30 processor with integrated graphics, 8GB of RAM, and either 128GB or 1TB of SSD storage. The 11.6-inch IPS display packs a 1080p resolution, and there's a 30.4Wh battery on board. Ports include a single USB-C, two USB-A, and one Micro-HDMI.

Obviously, the UBook isn't a powerhouse by any means, but it can be a suitable alternative for anyone who just needs to get some light word processing and web browsing done on the go. But it also faces tough competition from the Surface Go, which starts out at $400, albeit with much lower starting specs.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2B8D9LV
via IFTTT

Play music wirelessly with 50% off the TaoTronics Pulse X Bluetooth Speaker

This compact speaker lasts for up to seven hours on a single charge.

The TaoTronics Pulse X Bluetooth Speaker drops to just $14.99 at Amazon when you enter promo code 5WQLAFGL during checkout. That saves you 50% off its regular price of $30 these days, and you'll also be snagging the speaker at $1 less than it's ever dropped on its own before.

This portable speaker is equipped with two 7W acoustic drivers that let you blast your music wherever you go. Its internal 4000mAh rechargeable battery keeps it powered for up to seven hours on a single charge, while Bluetooth 4.2 allows you to connect with devices wirelessly from up to 33 feet away. There's a 3.5mm jack that lets you connect it to non-Bluetooth devices as well. Using its built-in microphone, you can even begin taking calls hands-free and get more done in the meantime.

At Amazon, more than 1,100 customers left a review for this speaker resulting in a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

See at Amazon

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2GbAcOc
via IFTTT

How RAGE 2's wasteland of crazy, mutants, and monster trucks was built

How RAGE 2 went from a crazy whiteboard concept — to an even crazier game.

RAGE 2 is poised to be Bethesda's next big shooter, refreshing its post-apocalyptic series with an all-new identity. The neon-tinted world now accommodates crazy armaments and otherworldly foes, setting a fresh tone for an anticipated sequel. Pairing the gunplay foundations of 2016's DOOM reboot, with physics talent from Just Cause's Avalanche Studios, it packs the best of open-world action.

While set for a May 2019 debut, we sat down with id Software studio director, Tim Willits, discussing what went into RAGE 2's wasteland.

Related: RAGE 2 is a shooter sequel that looks downright WILD

See at Amazon

Matt Brown, Windows Central staff writer: Getting started, what did you set out to primarily improve in RAGE 2 over the original game?

Tim Willits, id Software studio director: Oh, lots of things. In its simplest form, RAGE 2 delivers on the promise of RAGE. We had a lot of great things in the original RAGE, but they were all separated by level loads, and you had to switch discs, and all that stuff.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2CYofbu
via IFTTT

Microsoft snags Google Cloud executive to lead GitHub's product team

Image: GitHub

Former Microsoft veteran and Google Cloud executive Shanku Niyogi will now head up GitHub's product team.

Three months after completing its acquisition of GitHub, Microsoft has hired on the new leader for the code repository's Product Team.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2CVwt45
via IFTTT

Enjoy upgraded audio with the KEF M500 Hi-Fi Headphones on sale for $60

Grab a pair at one of their best prices ever.

The KEF M500 Hi-Fi Headphones are on sale for just $69.99 at Newegg right now, and using promo code EMCTUVE65 during checkout will score you an extra $10 off that price. At just $59.99 total, you're snagging this pair of headphones at one of its best prices ever, though only the white model is on sale today. Shipping is free. When not discounted, they sell for nearly $220 in used condition with new models priced at up to $300. However, KEF is currently offering these headphones in black for just $99.99 via its website.

These on-ear headphones are designed to reproduce Hi-Fi audio with their built-in 40mm neodymium drivers which offer full range high definition response from 20Hz to 20kHz. The multi-directional Smart Hinge and lightweight aluminum frame work together so the headphones conform to the shape of your head while being worn. Plus, they can be folded up compactly when not in use too.

A microphone and an remote control are built into the cable of the headphones, and with the acoustic sealing ring in each ear cup, you can listen comfortably without being bothered by any extra noise going on around you.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2MHPjQC
via IFTTT

Grab D-Link's wireless router on sale for $60 with a free smart plug

Go online and stay there.

The D-Link DIR-867 AC1750 dual-band wireless router is down to $59.99 at B&H. Be sure to clip the 33% off on-page coupon to see the discount during checkout. The same router sells for $90 regularly including at other retailers like Amazon.

This deal also comes with a free Keewifi Wi-Fi mini smart plug. These normally go for $14.95 by themselves at B&H, so that's a little extra value for you. Connect it to your new router's Wi-Fi network, and you can control whatever's plugged in from your phone or with your voice.

The router is capable of up to 1750 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless bands. It has four high-performance external antennas, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, and one Gigabit Ethernet WAN port. You'll get MU-MIMO tech, which helps in homes that have several devices all sharing the same wireless network. It also has guest network access and Intelligent QoS to prioritize your internet traffic.

from Windows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft. http://bit.ly/2DMLhDG
via IFTTT