How to customize the navigation buttons on the HTC One M9
The new HTC One and its Sense 7 software make it possible to add another icon to your navigation dock. Here's how!
An extra button on in the navigation drawer of the HTC One M9.Jason Cipriani/CNET
The new HTC One M9 isn't all that different on the outside from its predecessor, but it does offer some new software tricks. One of them is the capability to customize the order, and even add or subtract from, your device's navigation buttons.
The navigation buttons are the back, home, and recent apps' buttons sitting in the black bar at the bottom of your screen.
Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNET
To edit your navigation buttons, launch the Settings app and select Personalize.
Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNET
Next select Change navigation buttons.
Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNET
A list of various options will be presented, with only the default three being selected. Again, those are Back, Home and Recent Apps. You can add one more to the navigation dock, and rearrange the icons to fit your personal preference.
The available options are: Turn off screen, Auto rotate, Hide navigation bar, Quick settings and Notifications.
My personal favorite out of the bunch is the Notifications option. With it enabled, instead of having to swipe down from the top of the screen I can tap on the button and the notification shade slides down automatically. It's not an earth-shattering feature, but one that's useful nonetheless.
Rearranging the icons is done by touching the three-lined icon next to each option and dragging it to its new home.
Any changes you make, be it adding or removing an option, will not be reflected in the navigation bar until you press Done at to bottom of the screen.
How to place a call from iOS 8's Notification Center
This simple app places a dial-pad in the Today view, making it possible to place a call from anywhere on your iPhone.
Addial on an iPhone 6.Jason Cipriani/CNET
Addial is a small app with one claim to fame: placing calls from the Today panel in iOS 8's Notification Center.
Once you install the app, you'll need to add the widget to the Today panel in your iPhone's Notification Center. You can do this by following the instructions here.
Once it's added, you'll have a small dial-pad that you can dial a phone number with. Tap on the phone icon to place a call or begin composing a message by tapping the text bubble. While I found the numbers to be a tad on the small side, I was still able to dial numbers without issue. Increasing the size of the buttons would be nice to see, as would duplicating the Favorites list in the Phone app within the widget.
Tapping on the app icon itself doesn't reveal much. A simple tutorial on how to activate the widget, with additional icons to create a new contact or send feedback to the developer. It may not be perfect, but it's a quick and simple way of dialing a phone number no matter the app you're using on your iPhone.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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