Google pushes Chrome OS software, with or without Chromebooks

Google pushes Chrome OS software, with or without Chromebooks

Google announces new Chromebook laptops and an intriguing new device called the Chromebit that pushes Google's operating system without trying to sell you a laptop.

Google is making a push to get people to use its Chrome operating system, which powers its Chromebook laptops.Richard Nieva/CNET

Move over, Android.

Google's mobile operating system may be the most popular software in the world for powering phones and tablets. But Google is also making a push for its other operating system, Chrome OS, which mostly powers laptop and desktop computers.

Consider a few of the new devices the search giant announced Tuesday. The Asus Chromebit is a small device that looks like an oversize flash drive that turns any screen or monitor with an HDMI video port into a full-blown computer. With the Chromebit, you can connect to a Wi-Fi network and run Google's Chrome browser, check Gmail and watch YouTube -- all through Google's Chrome operating system.

The device will sell for less than $100, Google said. It's set to be released this summer.

Then there's the Asus Chromebook Flip, an all-metal device that's a cross between a laptop computer and a tablet, which will sell for $249. Google also announced two new laptops from manufacturers Hisense and Haier. The companies' $149 Chromebooks, designed for the education market, are available for pre-order today on Google's online store. The Haier laptop is available on Amazon, while the Hisense one is available at Walmart.

Google announced the Asus Chromebook Flip, which serves as both a laptop and tablet, and will sell for $249.Richard Nieva/CNET

Those products are all part of Google's effort to get its Chrome OS -- and by extension, its suite of software products like Gmail and Google Docs -- into the hands of as many people as it can. That includes trying to reach students in classrooms, as well as people from emerging markets like India and Thailand. The company said it will release around 10 new Chromebooks in the next few months.

"Our goal is not just to sell some of these products, but to make computing accessible to more people," said Caesar Sengupta, a vice president of product management at Google.

Google first introduced the Chromebook laptop in 2011, but its market share remains small. Of all laptops sold worldwide in 2014, only 3.5 percent were running Google's Chrome OS, according to research firm IDC. PCs running Microsoft's Windows software, the market leader, accounted for 86 percent of laptops sold, while Apple's MacBook notebooks had an 8.7 percent share.

But Chrome OS devices have gotten much better traction in the education market in the United States. In 2014, Chromebooks accounted for about one third of the education market with a 29.9 percent share. Windows still had the majority with 39 percent, while Apple had 32 percent, according to IDC.

Google's Chromebit turns any computer monitor with an HDMI port into a full-blown computer.Richard Nieva/CNET

Chrome, minus the Chromebook

Google has good reason to tout Chrome OS. The software is the entry point to people using more Google apps and services. The more information the company can glean from users, the more potential revenue it can make from showing them targeted ads, which marketers deem the most valuable.

To that end, one of Google's newest additions to the lineup of devices, the Chomebit, hawks Chrome OS without even trying to sell a Chromebook laptop.

The company said the device holds appeal to for someone in an Internet cafe in, say, Indonesia, who wants a fast Internet experience but is stuck using old computer equipment. The Chromebit could also be used to replace the aging computer in your living room -- all you need is the monitor, Internet connection, keyboard and mouse you already have. Or, schools could use the Chromebit to revamp an old computer lab.

"You can instantly update it to a modern computing experience," said Sengupta.

The device has a USB port at one end and can connect to other accessories via the Bluetooth standard for connecting wireless devices. The Chromebit also works similarly to Google's $35 Chromecast, which is used for streaming videos from the Internet to a TV and also connects to the screen from an HDMI port.

The company also showed off other non-laptop devices that are powered by Chrome OS. Google has touchscreen kiosks that retailers can use on their store floors. The company said it has deals with the clothing store Chico's and some other retailers to use screens running Chrome OS to power digital signs.

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The complete guide to preordering the Apple Watch

The complete guide to preordering the Apple Watch

Want to be one of the first wearing the Apple Watch? Here's what you need to know.

Come April 24, Apple Watch deliveries will begin and anyone who preordered a Watch will unbox their new device. Here's what you need to know to guarantee you'll be one of the first wearing the Apple Watch.

Here's what happens on April 10

On April 10, two things happen:

• Preorders begin
• Apple Watch goes on display in-store and try-ons begin

So then you'll be able to waltz into your local Apple store to try on the Apple Watch. Try-ons will be on a first-come-first-served basis, and while we don't yet have complete details, it sounds like those interested in the Apple Watch Edition (the incredibly expensive 18-karat gold model) can schedule a one-hour try-on session.

The most recent reports suggest that if you wait to try the Apple Watch on in stores, you'll likely end up with a delayed delivery date. Those who order the Watch as soon as possible will get it on time (or at least sooner).

Our advice? If you want to be one of the first people wearing an Apple Watch, sort out all of the details before online preorders begin. And that's what this guide is for -- to help you figure out everything you need to know for that very moment.

MORE APPLE WATCH TIPS

• When and where to buy the Apple Watch

Is your phone compatible?

Good news! You don't need the newest, flashiest iPhone to use the Apple Watch. All Watch models are compatible with the iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

As a nice surprise, those who own the iPhone 5, 5C or 5S will be able to use Apple Pay through their Apple Watch, even though their phone doesn't support the feature.

Your Watch options

Most people thought that when Apple unveiled a watch there would be one flagship model. Apple surprised us with a slew of options, ranging from an entry-level sport model to a super-expensive all-gold version.

Here's the deal: more expensive doesn't necessarily mean "better." The price tiers exclusively reflect the material used to build the watch -- the inner parts and features are exactly the same.

	Price (38mm; 42mm)	Body	Display	Back	Design
Apple Watch Sport	$349; $399	Aluminum-alloy	Ion X-strengthened glass	Composite	Lightweight materials make it an ideal exercise companion.
Apple Watch	$549; $599	Stainless steel	Sapphire crystal	Ceramic	Stainless steel and resilient display give it a more expensive feel.
Apple Watch Edition	$10,000 and up	18-karat gold	Sapphire crystal	Ceramic	High-end build designed for luxury.

Figure out your Watch size

The most frustrating part about preordering an Apple Watch without trying it on first is sizing. For most models and alternative strap options, you'll need to figure out two things: the size of the face and the length of the band.

Face sizing

For some, the face size will be obvious. My small wrists would be weighed down (and look ridiculous) with the 42mm version, for example. Someone with a large wrist might know right away they need the bigger size.

But the best way to decide is to print and cut out a paper version of the watch faces and compare them on your wrist. Here's a guide to doing just that.

Band sizing

For the Apple Watch Sport, you'll need to do nothing more than choose the face size, since your Watch will come with two bands (S/M and M/L).

However, the second-tier Apple Watch comes with a variety of band styles, some of which have various size options (like Small, Medium and Large). Once you know which band you want, head on over to this page, determine the size options, and use the below guide to pinpoint the length you need.

Because determining your watch size is a tricky business, I'm including two ways to do it. My advice is to follow both methods so that you're absolutely sure.

Josh Miller/CNET

Method 1: Measure and extend

This one is easy. Grab some flexible measuring tape -- the kind that tailors use. Wrap it around your wrist, tightly, so that you're measuring the exact circumference of your wrist. Note the measurement.

If you don't have that kind of measuring tape, wrap a piece of string around your wrist, snip it (or use a marker to indicate the length), and get the length of the string with a ruler or measuring tape.

Now, add the specified length (below) to determine your size, and compare to Apple's guide, which is in millimeters.

• For a snug fit* add ½ inch (12mm)
• For a comfortable fit on most people, add ¾ to 1 inch (18-25mm)
• For a loose fit add 1 ¼ inch (32mm)

*If you plan to exercise with your Watch, I recommend against a snug fit. Exercising in general causes minor swelling that will make a snug watch very uncomfortable to wear during workouts.

Josh Miller/CNET

Method 2: The duct tape bracelet

To be absolutely sure your measurements are correct, make a prototype bracelet with duct tape. It won't track your steps or read your heart rate, but it'll help you feel completely confident about the size you choose.

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How to boost your Steam download speed

How to boost your Steam download speed

Tired of waiting for your game update or new game download? Here's a tip to speed up your connection to Steam and spend your time playing, not waiting.

Steam

Steam defines itself as "the ultimate entertainment platform." Its software, available for PC, Mac, and mobile devices, allows people to "play, connect, [and] create." Its gaming library has more than 2,000 titles and it has approximately 40 million users. If you're one of those 40 million, you know what a pain it can be to wait for a game to update or for a new one to download -- it's not the speediest process.

Here's how to make the wait time a little less painful:

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Open the Steam settings page. This can be accessed by right-clicking the Steam icon in the system tray and selecting Settings from the menu that appears.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

In the Settings window, there will be many tabs full of all sorts of options and settings that you can play with. The settings we're interested in are under the Downloads + Cloud tab.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Two of the settings here can help increase your download speed. First, make sure the drop-down labeled "Approximate speed of your Internet connection" is properly set to, well, the approximate speed of your Internet connection.

Second, play around with the Download region drop-down settings. Your best bet is going to be the closest location to you, but factors like the internet connection between you and that location or volume of traffic to that server may tip the scale in the favor of a server further away.

Adjusting these settings will require you to restart your Steam client before the changes come into effect. Hopefully you'll notice faster download speeds after the restart. If there's no change -- or worse, your connection seems slower -- play around more with the download region setting until you find a reliable, low-traffic server.

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Setting up parental controls on the PlayStation 4

Setting up parental controls on the PlayStation 4

Want to prevent your kids from accessing inappropriate content? It's relatively simple thanks to Sony's advanced parental controls.

Picking up a PlayStation 4? You won't be disappointed; Sony's latest console has a great lineup of launch titles. Games like Killzone Shadow Fall, Call of Duty: Ghosts, Battlefield 4, and many others, will ensure that you're entertained for hours.

Some of these games, however, may not be appropriate for young kids. To make things easier for parents, Sony has included numerous parental controls that can prevent kids from accessing certain content, features, and games.

Sarah Tew/CNET

From the PlayStation 4's main menu, hit the up arrow and scroll over to the system settings. Next, select Parental Controls and click on the "Restrict Use of PS4 Features" option. The parental options include the ability to restrict access to certain games, Blu-ray movies, DVDs, and the Web browser. The system can also be configured to prevent other accounts from logging in.

Sarah Tew/CNET

To restrict access to certain games, open the Application tab and set a level between 1 and 11. The lower you set the level, the tighter the restriction will be. For example, a level 1 rating prevented us from playing all games, even Knack, which is rated Everyone and contains some cartoon violence.

Sarah Tew/CNET

You should play around with the settings and find the one that's right for you and your family. A middle level should suit you well, depending on the age of your kids.

Blu-ray movies and DVDs can be restricted using the same level as games, and the Web browser can be disabled by clicking on the Internet Browser tab. Meanwhile, the User Accounts option will allow you to prevent others from creating new accounts and logging in to the system.

The passcode on the PlayStation 4 is set to 0-0-0-0 by default. I highly recommend you change it. The passcode can be changed by clicking on the "Change Passcode" option in the Parental Control settings, followed by entering your old code and creating a new one.

Parents can also create subaccounts that will have the restrictions they've created set by default. This can be done by going to Settings, clicking on Parental Controls, and selecting Sub Account Management.

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Getting started with Remote Play on the PS4

Getting started with Remote Play on the PS4

You can stream PlayStation 4 games to the PlayStation Vita over a Wi-Fi network. Here's what you need to know.

From the iconic PlayStation to Blu-ray discs, Sony has changed the way we play games and consume media time and time again. The company is looking to shake things up once again with the release of the PlayStation 4. With an 8-core AMD Jaguar processor and a high-end Radeon GPU, Sony's latest console is more powerful than ever before.

Class-leading specs, however, aren't the only thing gamers should be excited about.

The PlayStation 4 includes a number of new features, such as the ability to share gameplay with friends and even play games while they are being downloaded.

Sony has also expanded the Remote Play feature that was first introduced with the PlayStation 3. Remote Play, which is arguably one of the coolest features, allows users to play PlayStation 4 games on their PlayStation Vita over a Wi-Fi network, freeing up a TV for other use.

Here's what you need to know:

The gear

The ability to remotely play games won't come cheap. In addition to a PlayStation 4 console, which costs $399, gamers will also be required to purchase a PlayStation Vita for $199, and have access to the Internet through a high-end router.

Sarah Tew/CNET

The setup

In the PlayStation 4 settings, select PS Vita Connection Settings, turn Remote Play on, and click on the "Add Device" option. A unique pairing number will then be displayed on your TV screen. From the Vita's home screen, select PS4 Link, choose Remote Play, enter the paring number from the TV, click Register, and select the "Connect to PS4" option.

Sarah Tew/CNET

After pairing is complete, the PlayStation 4's interface will be displayed on the Vita's screen. Simply select the title you wish to play and start gaming. The TV can then be switched to a new HDMI port or even turned off completely.

The games

Sony has said that it "expects that most PS4 titles will support Remote Play unless the title requires a special peripheral like PlayStation Camera," however, it will be up to specific game developers to support the feature.

Sally Neiman/CNET

The limitations

Unfortunately, Remote Play does have some limitations. A strong Internet connection and an equally strong router are a must for low latency streaming. It's also unclear how many titles will realistically support Remote Play, a flaw that crippled the feature on the PlayStation 3.

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Sharing on the PlayStation 4

Sharing on the PlayStation 4

The new Share button on the DualShock 4 controller makes it easier than ever to broadcast your gaming adventures with others.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Gaming is more social than ever before. Not only are players of all ages coming together to compete online, but they are also sharing gameplay videos, tips, and tricks across social media.

Sony has made it easier to share with friends on the PlayStation 4. The company included a dedicated Share button on the new DualShock 4 controller, which gives gamers the ability to quickly take a screenshot or even broadcast gameplay to others around the world.

Sharing

A single press of the Share button will display the sharing options menu, a long press will take a screenshot that won't interrupt gameplay, and a double-press will set a start point for recording a video clip.

Sony

The sharing menu (which, when opened, will also automatically capture a screenshot) includes three options: upload a video clip, upload a screenshot, and broadcast gameplay.

Once inside the share menu, clicking the Options button on the controller will open the share settings. From here, you can tweak your video clip and broadcast settings, and even connect to various social media accounts.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Recording

The PlayStation 4 is always recording gameplay, whether you like it or not. The system will create a video clip of the previous 15 minutes of your gameplay once you hit the Share button. This clip can then be edited, saved, and shared with others from the share menu.

Audio from your microphone can be enabled on video clips by entering the share settings and selecting the video clip settings.

Broadcasting

In addition to recording videos, the PlayStation 4 can even broadcast live gameplay to services like Twitch and Ustream. Before you begin, however, you should configure the broadcast settings. Videos and audio can be recorded at low, medium, high, or best quality in the broadcast settings inside of the share menu. This option cannot be changed once a broadcast has been initiated, though.

Live recordings can also be set to include video from the optional PlayStation Camera accessory and commentary from a connected microphone, both of which can be enabled in the broadcast settings, along with the option to display viewer comments on the screen.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Once your settings are configured to your liking, simply start a game, tap the Share button, select broadcast gameplay, and choose the service you wish to stream to. As you continue the game, a small sidebar will appear on the right-hand side of your screen that will display viewer numbers and comments in real time.

Live from PlayStation

If you're interested in live streams from other gamers, click on the Live from PlayStation tab on the console's main menu. From here you will find broadcasts and colorful commentary from gamers all around the world.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Perhaps the most appealing thing about the sharing experience on the PlayStation 4 is that a PlayStation Plus membership is not required to partake in the fun. Both the Live from PlayStation content and various sharing features can be accessed by all PlayStation 4 owners.

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How to upgrade or replace your PS4's hard drive

How to upgrade or replace your PS4's hard drive

Want a bigger hard drive in the PlayStation 4? How about a faster one? Not a problem, it's relatively simple to swap out drives in Sony's latest console. Here's how to do it.

The PlayStation 4 and Xbox One are both equipped with a 2.5-inch 500GB hard drive that spins at 5,400 revolutions per minute. Only the PlayStation 4's hard drive, however, can be replaced or upgraded.

Sony previously allowed gamers to upgrade their hard drives in the PlayStation 3, and with some games taking up more than 50GB of space, we are thankful the company kept the same philosophy with the PlayStation 4.

The process is relatively simple and should only take you a couple of minutes to complete.

Here's what you need to know:

The tools
The hard drive must be a 2.5-inch drive, which is the size of a normal laptop drive, have at least 160GB of space, and be no thicker than 9.5 millimeters. You will also need a USB flash drive with at least 1GB of space, a Phillips-head screwdriver, and a computer with Internet access.

Sarah Tew/CNET

The process
With the console laying flat (and unplugged), apply pressure to the glossy black cover and slide it down; it should snap right off. Locate the screw with the traditional PlayStation shapes -- circle, square, triangle, X -- and remove it.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Pull the hard-drive tray out, remove the four screws that keep it in place, and replace the drive with the new one (it should be facing down with the SATA ports facing toward the opening). Secure your new drive into the tray, insert it back into the system, and replace the PlayStation screw.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Getting the cover back on can be a little tricky. Instead of sliding it in from the bottom, come from the top and snap it back into place.

The update
From your computer, go to Sony's site and download the latest software update for the PlayStation 4. Connect the USB flash drive to the computer and format it to FAT32, which will erase all the data on the drive and allow it to be recognized by the console. This can be done on Windows by right-clicking the drive, selecting Format, choosing the "FAT32" option from the pull-down menu, and clicking the Start button.

Screenshot by Dan Graziano/CNET

Once complete, open the drive and create a folder titled "PS4"; inside of that folder create another one titled "UPDATE" in all caps, and place the update file inside of it.

Screenshot by Dan Graziano/CNET

The console
Connect the power cord to the back of the console and plug in the HDMI port. You will also need to connect both the controller and the USB flash drive. Next, turn the console on in Safe mode by holding the power button for 7 seconds.

Click the PlayStation button on the controller when prompted to do so and scroll down to the "Initialize PS4" option. The system will then copy the update file from your drive to the console and install it.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Once installation is complete, the PlayStation 4 will restart and boot as if it were the first time you powered it on, requiring you to create an account, sign in to the PlayStation Network, and download your content.

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