How do I upgrade the wireless card in my Dell XPS 13?

One small complaint with the stellar Dell XPS 13 heard from some users: the stock wireless card sucks. To be more precise, these users have a hard time finding bars while not located directly next to a wireless router. While this might not be such a big deal at home, you can't exactly move your desk at work or your seat at college.

Other XPS 13 users who installed a Linux-based operating system discovered that the stock wireless card didn't want to play nicely with their new install.

The solution to both problems? You can try a driver or a BIOS update, or you can invest about $20 in a new Intel wireless card. The Intel wireless card has both better reception overall and also plays a lot better with Linux.

The process to replace your wireless card takes about 10 minutes and is super easy with the right tools — best part is you probably already have the tools lying around the house. Want to take the plunge and completely replace the wireless card in your XPS 13? Here's how to get the job done.

• Tools you will need to upgrade the wireless card in a Dell XPS 13 9350
• The recommended replacement wireless card
• How to remove the wireless card in a Dell XPS 13
• How to replace the wireless card in a Dell XPS 13

Tools you will need to replace the wireless card in a Dell XPS 13 9350

The tools needed to replace the wireless card in your XPS 13 9350 are:

• T5 Torx screwdriver
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• tweezers
• plastic opening tool (called a scribe)
• receptacle for the small parts and screws

If you don't have these tools already lying around the home or office, you can pick up a kit with everything you need and more. Delcast has a great 23-piece set that starts around $27.

See at Amazon

The recommended replacement wireless card

As mentioned, the Intel 7265NGW wireless card will solve reception and Linux problems. It is a dual-band 2x2 AC that has 802.11 AC-B/G/N and Bluetooth 4.0. It has an M2 interface, making it compatible with the latest laptops, including, of course, the XPS 13 9350. You can pick it up off Amazon for about $20.

See at Amazon

How to remove the wireless card in a Dell XPS 13

1. Power off your XPS 13, close the lid, and flip it over.

2. Unscrew eight edge screws on the base cover of the XPS 13 with a T5 Torx screwdriver.

3. Unscrew one screw beneath the magnetic system badge using a Phillips #2 screwdriver.

4. Pry up the base cover of the XPS 13 with a plastic scribe starting at the back corners, near the hinge.

5. Remove the base cover completely using your hands.

6. Unscrew one screw securing the wireless card brace to the motherboard using a Phillips #2 screwdriver.

7. Remove the wireless card brace.

8. Disconnect the wireless card cables from the wireless card.

9. Slide the wireless card out of its slot.

How to replace the wireless card in a Dell XPS 13

1. Slide the new wireless card at an angle into its slot on the XPS 13.

2. Attach the wireless card cables to the wireless card.

3. Replace the wireless card brace.

4. Fasten the wireless card brace using one screw and a Phillips #2 screwdriver.

5. Replace the base cover using your hands. Start at the edge furthest from the hinges and work your way back around the edges. Ensure you also apply pressure to the middle of the base cover.

6. Fasten the middle screw beneath the magnetic system badge using one screw and a Phillips #2 screwdriver. If the screw doesn't find a hold, apply pressure again near the middle of the base cover.

7. Fasten eight edge screws using a T5 Torx screwdriver.

8. Flip over your XPS 13, open the lid, and power it on.

Your wireless card

Have you replaced the wireless card in your XPS 13? Which wireless card did you use? Is your wireless connection better now that you made the switch? Let us know in the comments section below!

How do I set up and use multiple desktops in Windows 10?

Windows 10 has made it extremely easy to set up and use multiple virtual desktops in Windows 10. Multiple desktops are great for keeping unrelated, ongoing projects organized, or for quickly hiding from the boss that browser game you can't stop playing.

Ready to tackle the day with multiple desktops? Let's go!

• How to create a new virtual desktop in Windows 10
• How to switch between virtual desktops in Windows 10
• How to move windows between virtual desktops in Windows 10
• How to remove a virtual desktop in Windows 10

How to create a new virtual desktop in Windows 10

1. Click the Task View button in your taskbar. It looks like a square over a rectangle. You can also simultaneously hit the Windows key and Tab key together on your keyboard.

2. Click New Desktop. It's located in the bottom right corner of your screen.

If you want to skip the two steps above, you can use this keyboard shortcut: ctrl + Windows key + D.

That's actually it. Easy, right?

How to switch between virtual desktops on Windows 10 PC

1. Click the Task View button in your taskbar. It looks like a square over a rectangle. You can alternatively hit the Windows key and Tab key together on your keyboard.

2. Click Desktop 2 or any other virtual desktop you've created.

You can switch back to your original desktop at any time by following the above steps but choosing Desktop 1.

If you want to skip the two steps above, you can use this keyboard shortcut: ctrl + Windows key + left arrow/right arrow.

How to move windows between virtual desktops on Windows 10 PC

There are two ways you can move windows between virtual desktops. First, you can click and drag windows; second, you can right-click the window and use the menu.

Click and drag method

1. Click the Task View button in your taskbar. It looks like a square over a rectangle. You can alternatively hit the Windows key + Tab key on your keyboard.
2. Click and hold the window you want to move.

3. Drag and release the window on an alternate desktop.

Right-click menu method

1. Click the Task View button in your taskbar. It looks like a square over a rectangle. You can alternatively hit the Windows key and Tab key together on your keyboard.

2. Right-click on the window you'd like to move to another desktop.

3. Hover your cursor over Move to.

4. Click the desktop to which you'd like to move the window.

You can move windows back and forth between desktops to your heart's content.

How to remove a virtual desktop in Windows 10

1. Click the Task View button in your taskbar. It looks like a square over a rectangle. You can alternatively hit the Windows key and Tab key together on your keyboard.
2. Hover your cursor over the desktop you'd like to remove.

3. Click the X in the top right corner of the desktop icon.

Open and running windows in a desktop you close will be moved back to your original desktop.

Your virtual desktops

How many desktops do you use? For what purpose? A quick way to hide games from the boss? An easy way to organize multiple ongoing projects? Let us know in the comments section below!

Seeing as another major round of updates to Windows 10 is about to take place next week it only makes sense to see some fear-inducing articles. In fairness, the articles themselves aren't that bad (see PC World) as the content mostly explains away the so-called controversy.

Nonetheless in the age of "I only read the headline" things like "You can't turn off Cortana in the Windows 10 Anniversary Update" with the fine print "...but you can lessen her awareness" does a disservice to the community.

Normally, I ignore such articles as in June we wrote a detailed guide called "How to turn off Cortana and stop personal data gathering in Windows 10". That guide mostly applies to the current version of Cortana, but a lot of the privacy tips are relevant for the Windows 10 Anniversary Update.

How to sign into Cortana in Windows 10 AU

Now, in fairness, Microsoft did change some things around. The criticism that an "off switch" for Cortana is removed is technically correct and likely where much of the misinformation originates. But there is a reason for this too, which is a change in the structure of Cortana and it being a service on iOS and Android.

Cortana when not logged in with a Microsoft Account

Here are the facts:

1. To use Cortana on Windows 10 and Mobile you need to link your Microsoft Account to the service. Cortana asks you this during a clean install, and it should also ask you during an upgrade too when you first go to use Cortana.
2. Microsoft renamed Bing web and local PC search as "Cortana" too. So there is the non-personalized generic Cortana and the one that does the personal stuff e.g. location, reminders, email, flight tracking, etc.
3. At any time you can also log off Cortana. You can also wipe your web, Cortana, search and device history

With the Anniversary Update, anyone can use Cortana. Some of the benefits are still regionalized, but Microsoft is expanding the service and letting users choose regions so new users can opt-in. This is, after all, what people had asked for with feedback.

Here is how to log off Cortana if you already are using the Anniversary Update.

Logging out of Cortana in the Anniversary Update

How to sign out of Cortana in Windows 10 AU

1. Click Cortana
2. Choose Notebook
3. Choose About me
4. Select User Account
5. Select Sign Out

Cortana will now revert to a generic search engine for your PC and web with no links to your Microsoft Account.

Going even further, Mary Jo Foley reminds me that non-Home users also have Group Policy options available too to turn things off.

Confusion? Maybe

Now, having put all of that out there, we can talk about how disabling Cortana for personalized information tracking is not as easy as throwing an off switch. There is a legit complaint that Microsoft may be obfuscating how to disable Cortana for personalization. Just two caveats:

1. Users can opt-in to personalized Cortana during the upgrade or when setting up a new PC
2. Opting out after opting is less likely (see Facebook and Google)

Having said that, I do think Microsoft could make un-enrolling in Cortana for personalized searches easier. That is an easy criticism to make, and it does have merit.

However, that conclusion is very different from the "you cannot turn it off" headline. Not only can you turn Cortana off for privacy, but you can also hide it from the Task Bar and shut down a lot of general telemetries that Microsoft collects. Moreover, users need to opt-in to use Cortana in the first place.

So why the change?

As to why Microsoft made Cortana this way my hunch is for parity with the version of Cortana on Android and iOS. Those versions both have 'Sign out' options and not a 'Turn off' switch (which would be weird to a user).

Don't forget, "turn off" sounds like you are completely disabling everything Cortana does, which is not the case. On iOS, Android, Windows 10 Mobile, and Windows 10 PC you can sign out of Cortana and still use Cortana for non-personalized searches. That's not turning it off.

How to sign out of Cortana on non-Windows devices

That is what has changed with Cortana, and it is worth pointing out to readers when covering what is new with the personalized assistant (or not so personalized, perhaps). The fact that Cortana on Windows 10 behaves now like on iOS and Android is interesting, I suppose. Nonetheless, you would not say "you cannot turn off Cortana on your iPhone". The same applies for PC. You don't turn off Cortana. You can (a) log out from it and (b) do not use it.

In the end, we will continue to see articles trying to worry people, which is a shame. There is a legitimate discussion to be had around Microsoft's data collection, privacy, and user control. In fact, I pointed one case in this article where things could be improved.

Questions are good, being skeptical is A-OK, but let's stick to the facts.

For further privacy tips see our previous guide "How to turn off Cortana and stop personal data gathering in Windows 10".

How do I get audio working on my Dell XPS 13?

So your Dell XPS 13's audio is being finicky. It's a common problem, especially the 9343 model, so you're not alone. Plugging in or unplugging headphones sometimes won't register, drivers will sometimes stop working, and Windows 10 updates will sometimes decide to work against you.

There are countless forums across the internet that attempt to fix this problem, most with a different, unproven fix method. Here are some fixes that have helped other XPS 13 users and will hopefully get the audio in your Dell XPS 13 working again.

• Ensure Windows isn't still asleep
• Troubleshoot your audio settings
• Perform an ePSA test
• Uninstall and reinstall XPS 13 audio drivers
• Perform a light system restore
• Audio still not working?

Ensure Windows isn't still asleep

If you unplug headphones while your XPS 13 is asleep, Windows might think they're still plugged in when you wake up your laptop.

If your audio suddenly doesn't work upon waking your XPS 13, plug in and unplug your headphones. This could kick your XPS 13 in the butt and get the audio working again.

Troubleshoot your audio settings

Yes, this might seem obvious to some of you. Yes, you might have already tried the troubleshooter. If you haven't already tried, here's how to use Windows troubleshooter for your audio problems.

This method has reportedly solved hissing and static noises.

1. Right-click the speaker icon in your taskbar. It's located in the bottom right corner.
2. Click Troubleshoot sound problems.

3. Click Open Enhancements.

4. Uncheck all boxes in the Enhancements field.

5. Click OK.

6. Click Next.

7. Click Play test sounds. You should hear a series of sounds.

8. Click the option that best suits what you heard.
   • Good (Keep using my current audio driver)
   • Bad (Try again using HD Audio driver)
   • I didn't hear anything (Try again using HD Audio driver)

9. Click Close when you're finished with the troubleshooter.

Perform an ePSA test

Restarting your computer and running a pre-boot assessment can reveal to you whether or not your speakers have failed at a hardware level.

1. Click the Start button.
2. Click Power.

3. Click Restart.

4. Hit F12 on your keyboard as soon as your computer starts to boot (you will see a Dell logo on the screen).
5. Select Diagnostics using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
6. Hit Enter on your keyboard. An ePSA system diagnostic will start.
7. Click Yes when asked if you can see the colored bars. At this point a loud beep should sound.

If you don't hear a loud beep, it likely means your speakers have failed and you should contact Dell about a hardware replacement.

If you do hear a loud beep it means your speakers are working (at least from a hardware perspective). If you're not getting any sound from them when you're not in diagnostic mode, it might mean your headphone jack sensor has failed — it thinks you still have a set of headphones in and therefore won't play any sound through your XPS 13's main speakers.

The solution to a faulty headphone jack? You're probably going to need a replacement, but there is something you can try before going that far.

Uninstall and reinstall XPS 13 audio drivers

Before going any further, you want to ensure your audio driver isn't causing the problem.

1. Click the Search Windows field in your taskbar.

2. Type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter on your keyboard.

3. Double-click Audio inputs and outputs.

4. Double-click Speakers / Headphones.

5. Click Driver in the top menu.

6. Click the Uninstall button.

7. Click OK.
8. Navigate to Dell's driver support web page using your favorite web browser.

9. Click Audio. You might have to scroll down a bit.

10. Click Download.

11. Click Run when the download is complete.

12. Click INSTALL. Realtek InstallShield will open.

13. Click Next >.

14. Click Next > again.

15. Click Finish. Your computer will restart.

Perform a light system restore

If your audio very recently crapped out (especially after a Windows update or the installation of a new app), you can set your XPS 13's settings back to a point before things went wrong.

1. Click the Search Windows field in your taskbar.
2. Type system restore.

3. Click Create a restore point.

4. Click the System Restore… button.

5. Click Choose a different restore point.

6. Click Next.

7. Choose a restore point before things went wrong by clicking on it.

8. Click Next.

9. Click Finish. Your computer will be reset to the restore point you chose.

Audio still not working?

Dell has a fantastic customer support system in place. If you've exhausted your options and the audio still isn't working in your XPS 13, consider contacting Dell Support.

Have you had audio troubles and managed to fix them in a way not mentioned here? Let us know in the comments below!

How do I use Bing images in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Edge?

Back in March, Bing updated its image search and compatibility with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Edge. The result? A streamlined image search and image insert for two popular Windows apps.

Using Bing within these apps is pretty much foolproof — here's how to get started using Bing Images within Office and Edge.

• How to insert a Bing image into a Microsoft Office document
• How to use Bing Lookup in Microsoft Edge

How to insert a Bing image into a Microsoft Office document

Adding images to your Office document is a great way to jazz things up. It could keep co-workers from falling asleep during PowerPoint presentations and will break up walls of text in Word documents.

In these steps we'll show you how to insert a Bing image in Word, but the process is the same for all Office apps. Here's how to do it:

1. Launch Microsoft Word from the taskbar, Start menu, or desktop.

2. Click Blank document or another template of your choice.

3. Click Insert in the menu near the top of the window.

4. Click Online Pictures.

5. Click the Search Bing field.

6. Type a topic to search.

7. Hit Enter on your keyboard. You'll be shown a bunch of images related to your search topic. You can filter results by size, color, and type.
8. Click one or more images you'd like to insert into the Word document.

9. Click Insert.

The image you chose with Bing will now be inserted into your Word document. You can use the dots on each corner of the image to resize, and the circled arrow at the top of the image can be used to rotate.

How to use Bing Lookup in Microsoft Edge

If you're cruising around the web using Microsoft Edge and you see an image you love, you can use Bing Lookup (labeled Ask Cortana is you have her enabled) to find out crucial information.

You'll also see images related to the image you used Bing Lookup for, as well as the same image in different sizes.

Still unimpressed? If the image you Bing is, say, a tasty-looking lasagne, you'll be shown links to lasagne recipes. If the image you Bing is a trendy pair of sneakers, expect to see a few links to where you can buy said sneakers. That's pretty damn cool.

Here's how to use Bing Lookup:

1. Launch Microsoft Edge from the taskbar, Start menu, or desktop.

2. Navigate to the web page of your choice.

3. Right-click the image that you'd like to use with Bing Lookup.

4. Click Bing Lookup or Ask Cortana (depending on whether or not you have Cortana enabled).

A pane will open on the right side of your Edge browser containing information about the image, links to web pages containing the image, and related images. You can navigate as you wish from this window pane.

You and Bing

Are you a fan of Bing Lookup/Ask Cortana? Do you use Bing images in all your Office documents? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!

Update: We're bumping this article from November for those on Windows 7 or 8 looking to upgrade to Windows 10 today (last day). Using this tool is a great way to grab the upgrade files and put them on a USB drive, or just upgrade directly!

Looking for a quick and easy way to upgrade your computer to the latest version of Windows 10? You can use the Microsoft media creation tool to do the job or even create installation media with either a USB flash drive or a DVD. Here is how it works. There seems to be some confusion around this app as so today we'll explain how it works.

Myth – But I don't want to wipe my drive and re-install my apps!

We hear the response a lot from users who would prefer just to use Windows Update. After all, why would you want to wipe your computer for an OS update?

However, this is just a misunderstanding. Although you could create an ISO from the media creation tool and you could wipe your PC and install Windows 10 ("clean install"), that is not the default behavior. If you are running Windows 7, 8, or 10 and you run the media installation tool, it assumes you want to upgrade your OS, which is exactly what we want. That means this is not a clean install and you keep your files.

1. Download

Grab the media creation tool from Microsoft: http://microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

2. Setup

Navigate to where you downloaded MediaCreationTool.exe and double-click it

3. Choose (or don't)

Once the installer has set up, you will be asked to either Upgrade this PC now or Create installation media for another PC. The default option is already upgrade so just hit Next. The app will download some files, process, check for updates and then check your PC. This process could take some time depending on your connection. Nothing has actually installed yet.

4. Accept

Choose Accept for the license terms. Or don't, it's your life.

5. More updates

The app really wants to make sure it is up to date so it will check again for the latest OS on Microsoft's servers. You can grab a coffee while it does its work.

6. Install

This screen is the one you all have been waiting for. As you can see, the installer is going to Keep personal files and apps and install Windows 10 Home (or Professional, it uses whatever is already installed).

To be clear, this is just updating your computer. Nothing is erased. We use this tool all the time and can vouch for what it does.

From this point on, the app will just install the files, and you will have to reboot your PC. The computer will go through the setup (black screen) and the 'out of the box' experience with those nice fade in screens with various colors.

Afterward, you will boot back into your updated PC, and that is it. You kept your PC as is and got the upgraded OS. Hopefully, you had no issues during this process, but overall, it is very similar to the Windows Update/OTA version.

Need more?

Check out our other articles for more info.

How to do a clean installation of Windows 10

How to make a full backup of a Windows 10 or Windows 8.1 PC

Windows 10 Anniversary Update - All you need to know!

How to prevent Windows 10 November update from getting stuck during installation

Windows 10 help, tips and tricks

Windows 10 Discussion Forums

How do I turn Cortana on or off on my Xbox One?

Cortana provides a wealth of useful capabilities on Xbox One. From inviting friends to parties to timely and unobtrusive notifications, she can do everything. Here's how to enable and disable Cortana on the Xbox One.

Note: This method works as of July 13th, 2016 on the most recent Xbox One Preview build. We'll update this article accordingly if the process changes once the Anniversary Update goes public on August 2, 2016.

Turning off Cortana will return your Xbox One to the default voice commands, which are triggered by saying "Xbox..." followed by your orders. Cortana specific commands such as "Cortana, what's the weather like?" or any of the natural language commands relating to Xbox Live will no longer work as a result of this. Additionally, you will no longer be able to use voice commands via a headset as Cortana will revert to her legacy, Kinect-only implementation.

How to turn off Cortana on the Xbox One

1. Double tap the Xbox logo button on your controller. Or, if you're using a Kinect or headset microphone, just say "Hey Cortana, go to settings" and skip to step #3.
2. Select Settings. It is the gear icon.
3. Select All Settings.
4. Select System.
5. Select Cortana Settings.

6. Tap the A button on your controller. Cortana will snap to the right side of the screen.

7. Tap down to select the toggle in the Cortana pane.
8. Tap the A button to switch Cortana off. You will be prompted that your Xbox will require a restart for this change to take effect.
9. Select Reset console. Your Xbox One will reboot with the legacy voice commands enabled instead of Cortana.

How to turn on Cortana on the Xbox One

1. Double tap the Xbox logo button on your controller. Or, if you're using a Kinect, just say "Xbox, go to settings" and skip to step #3.
2. Select Settings. It is the gear icon.
3. Select All Settings.
4. Select System.
5. Select Cortana Settings.

6. Tap the A button on your controller. You will then be guided through some telemetry agreements and prompted to reboot your Xbox.

Cortana is an excellent addition to the Xbox One overall, but if you have no intentions of using her internet-connected features whatsoever, disabling her can offer a more responsive, more streamlined experience for utilizing basic features such as navigation, TV commands and media control.

To get the best out of Cortana and voice commands on your Kinect, make sure it's properly calibrated to receive voice commands. You can learn how to do that over here.

More Xbox Tips and Tricks

Do you use Cortana on Xbox One? How do you think she could be improved? Let us know in the comments below.

The Windows 10 Anniversary Update is available starting August 2nd, and here we tell you how to get it.

Microsoft is rolling out the Windows 10 Anniversary Update starting on August 2nd. The new version of the operating system is a significant update with many improvements and features.

In the new update, you'll find a lot of new changes. From Windows Ink's advanced pen support to extensions in Microsoft Edge to improvements on the Start menu and Cortana and much much more — there's a lot going on with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update. Microsoft will be progressively rolling out the update — but how you can get it as soon as possible?

Not everyone will get the Anniversary Update on August 2nd, but eventually it will be available for all Windows 10 users, though it may take a day or two, or even a few weeks, for your specific device to gain access to the update. It depends on various factors, such as the device you're using, the method in which you obtained Windows 10, your location, and the load on the servers that are assigned to distribute the update.

Microsoft is known to roll out new significant updates slowly in case something goes wrong during the release. If something happens, the company can quickly halt the roll out reducing the number of affected users.

• How to get the Anniversary Update from Windows Update
• How to get the Anniversary Update using the Media Creation Tool
• How to get the Anniversary Update if you're in Insider program

How to get the Anniversary Update from Windows Update

The best way to get the Anniversary Update on your computer is by using Windows Update. Starting August 2nd, you can manually download the update using these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Update & security.

3. Click on Check for updates.

Once your device connects successfully with the Windows Update servers, the update will begin downloading, then simply click the Restart Now button, and Windows 10 will proceed to finish the installation. This process works in the same way as regular updates work for Windows 10.

How to get the Anniversary Update using the Media Creation Tool

Alternatively, you can use the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade or a clean installation of the operating system with the Anniversary Update. However, Microsoft often delays the availability of new versions through different methods for the sake of stability of the servers. As such, it could take a little bit of time until you can use this method to upgrade your computer.

Once the Windows 10 Anniversary Update is available you can use the following steps to upgrade:

1. Download the Media Creation Tools from Microsoft.
2. Double-click the MediaCreationTool.exe to launch the tool. Follow the steps until you get to Windows 10 Setup.
3. Select Upgrade this PC now.

4. Click Next.

5. Once the download completes, click Accept to agree to the terms.
6. Make sure the installer is set to Keep personal files and apps, which should be the default behavior. (If it's not, click the Change what to keep link to change the settings.)

7. Click the Install button to begin the update process.

At this point, the Windows 10 setup will start the installation of the Anniversary Update on your device preserving your files and apps. The upgrade process can take some time depending on your internet speeds, hardware, and other factors, but from the most part, it shouldn't take longer than 30 minutes.

How to get the Anniversary Update if you're in Insider program

If your computer or phone is enrolled in the Windows Insider Program, and you're running Windows 10 build 14393.x or later, you're already running the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, and you don't need to do anything else.

If you want to stay in the stable version of the operating system, you'll want to opt out of the Insider Program. Here's how:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Update & security.
3. Click on Windows Insider Program.

4. Click the Stop Insider Preview builds button.

5. Click the Need to stop getting Insider builds completely? link.

6. Click the Confirm button.
7. Click the Restart Now button to complete the process.

Now your device will no longer be enrolled in the Insider program, and you'll be able to keep the same installation intact.

After unenrolling you won't get any more Insider updates until the new version becomes available to everyone on August 2nd. This means that you probably want to stay in the Insider program until the official release to stay fully up to date.

Here's another trick you can use. If you don't want to wait until the Windows 10 Anniversary Update arrives, you can enroll your device to the Windows Insider Program now and configure your settings to get new builds from the Fast ring.

After your device gets updated to the Anniversary Update, make sure to use the steps mentioned above to unenroll your device from the Insider program. Then your device will stay with the Anniversary Update, but it won't get new test builds.

Wrapping things up

While there is a number of ways to get the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, the best way to get it is to use Windows Update, as it's what Microsoft recommends.

Remember that it's a slow roll out. If you waited this long, you could still wait a little longer until it becomes your turn to upgrade automatically.

It's important to note that even though it's safe to upgrade to the new version, it's always recommended that you make a full backup of your system before proceeding in case something goes wrong during the installation.

How are you getting the Windows 10 Anniversary Update on your PC or Mobile device? Tell us in the comments below.

More Windows 10 resources

For more help articles, coverage, and answers on Windows 10, you can visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

How do I make a password reset disk on Windows 10?

Forgetting a password can be one of the more frustrating things to deal with, and if you're unlucky enough to have forgotten the password to your Windows 10 PC account, you may be cursing to the heavens, so to speak. The good news is you can avoid this by creating a password reset disk.

Important note: A password reset disk only works with a Local account on your PC, not a Microsoft account. The steps for recovering a Microsoft account password are different.

• What is a password reset disk
• How to create a password reset disk on Windows 10
• How to use a password reset disk on Windows 10

What is a password reset disk?

A password reset disk is a file you create on a USB drive or an SD card that when plugged into your Windows PC will allow you to reset your password right on the lock screen.

The best part about the password reset disk is that you only have to create it once, and it will work forever, no matter how many times you have to use it.

How to create a password reset disk on Windows 10

1. Plug your USB drive or insert your **SD card* into your PC.
2. Press Windows key + S on your keyboard to bring up the search bar.
3. Type in User accounts.

4. Click on User accounts.

5. Click on Create a password reset disk.

6. Click on Next

7. Click on the dropdown menu.

8. Click on the device you want the password reset disk to be created on.

9. Type your local account password. This is your current password to log into your account on your PC.

10. Click Next

11. Click Next once the progress bar reaches 100%.

12. Click Finish.

Don't lose this USB drive or SD card, because anyone who has it can get into your account easily. Put it in a safe place, maybe thing about labeling it, and remember where you stashed it!

How to use a password reset disk on Windows 10

So, you've forgotten your password, and the password hint you provided yourself with isn't working. Fear not, my friend, your password reset disk will save the day!

Before you start, make sure you have your SD card or USB drive inserted into your PC.

1. Click Reset password.

2. Click Next.

3. Click on the dropdown menu.

4. Click on the device your password reset disk is located on.

5. Click Next.

6. Type in a new password.

7. Type in the new password again.

8. Type in a password hint.

9. Click Finish.

The password to your account has now been reset! You can log into your account with the new password you just created.

Was this helpful?

Did you need to know anything else about password reset disks? Or, do you know any important information we missed? Sound off in the comments below!

How do I play my music in the background on my Xbox One?

Background audio is now available on the Xbox One thanks to the Summer Update, here's how it works!

First, you need an app that supports background audio. At present, only Universal apps such as Cast will support background audio, but in the future, Microsoft Groove and the Windows 10 YouTube app myTube will be bringing their background sound to the party.

How to play audio in the background on your Xbox One

1. First, download an app that supports background audio. Search for the podcasting app 'Cast' in the store. More background audio apps are on the way, including Pandora, Microsoft Groove, and more. We'll update this article with all the background music apps once they go live!

2. Using Cast as an example, open the app and find a podcast to listen to using its search tools. Use your cursor and select play.

3. When the audio is playing, you can then begin multi-tasking, moving into games and other apps.
4. To access the background audio controls, double-tap the Xbox button on your controller. This will snap the guide. If you have background audio running, it will automatically select the Multitasking tab.
5. From this menu, you can select track skipping, background audio volume mixer, and select the full-screen button to jump back into the app delivering background sound.

The Xbox One Summer Update also brings Cortana, various other Universal Windows Platform applications and much more to the console. For more information on this summer's update, see the links below!

What's the first thing you'll play on the Xbox One's background audio? Let us know in the comments!

Need more?

Check out our other articles for more info on the Xbox One Summer Update.

• The Xbox One Summer Update's full changelog
• The next Xbox One Update: Xbox Clubs, Arena, and Looking For Group
• Xbox help, tips and tricks
• How to turn Cortana on the Xbox One off and on
• How to use the new Games & Apps section
• Xbox Discussion Forums

The Xbox Anniversary Update is almost upon us, and today we're taking a look at the brand new Games and Apps section!

The Windows 10 Anniversary Update is hitting Xbox One, PCs and phones on August 2nd, bringing a broad range of changes and new features to each platform. For Xbox, it brings Cortana to the console, background music support, and lays the groundwork for Universal Windows Platform applications.

It also brings a much needed revamp to the way Games & Apps are cataloged on the system. Here's what you need to know.

Where is it?

The location of the Games & Apps section has moved slightly since its previous incarnation. In the previous builds, the Games & Apps section was located at the bottom of the home screen next to your pins. Microsoft has listened to feedback regarding its positioning, and the company has moved it up to the top right of the main dashboard, making your content the primary attraction.

This new segment of the home screen also displays handy information, such as recent downloads, updates, and it will also show countdown timers for the upcoming Arena feature, set to launch later in the year.

What's changed?

In the previous Games & Apps section, games were listed in two horizontal rows. As the Xbox catalogue has grown, coupled with the addition of backwards compatibility, this horizontal list view became increasingly unwieldy. If you had a lot of games installed, scrolling to the right side was needlessly cumbersome, and the 'Ready to Install' list added extra content to scroll through as well, combined with the main list.

Microsoft has finally added multiple ways to sort and catalog your purchased content, doing away with the annoying layout of the previous app.

• Games are now sorted in a vertical list, and you can change the size of the thumbnails to get more columns. This way you see more content in a single space.
• You can sort your content using various types of filters, such as alphabetically, storage device, or by date.
• Games, apps, ready to install content, updates and the download queue now have their own tabs, with the familiar storage meter at the bottom of the sidebar.
• Downloads now display the percentage in addition to the actual speed of the download, making life easier.

How to manage your games and apps

Here's a quick overview of how to manage your games and apps using the Windows 10 Anniversary Update version of the Xbox One, currently available in the Xbox preview program. These features will roll out more broadly on August 2nd, but here's a handy guide to help you prepare.

Games and Apps

The games and the apps tabs function similarly, giving you an overview of what content is currently installed and ready to run on your Xbox One.

• Select the Games & Apps section from the top right-hand side of the main dashboard.
• Initially, you'll be able to see all of your installed games in a horizontal list, beneath different sorting options.

• Using the Xbox controller and pressing A, you can select games and apps, sort your collections alphabetically, by letter, by last used, last updated, or by size. You can also change the size of the thumbnails to get more on screen, or filter your collection by a storage device if you're connecting multiple drives.
• Selecting a game or app with A will launch it as expected.
• Selecting a game or app with the menu button on your controller will open the context menu, giving you additional controls. From here, you can pin them to your home screen, check out a title's game hub, manage the app or game, or uninstall them entirely.

• You can also dive straight into the game or app management page by selecting a title with the view button on your controller, instead of the menu button.
• The game management pages allow you to view easily all of a title's installed DLC, and ready to install DLC. Sometimes when you use freebies such as pre-order promotional codes, they won't always automatically download to the console. You'll always be able to find them on this screen.
• From this screen, you can move and copy content to different storage devices, or uninstall them entirely.
• You can also view the save data for each title, and remove that if you wish to start over fresh.

• Press B to cycle backward through these screens.

Ready to install

The "Ready to Install" tab works similarly to the games and the apps tabs, and it's from here where you'll be able to reinstall titles you own, but have either previously uninstalled or haven't yet installed.

• Selecting this tab might take a little while to load depending on how much content you have, as it pulls your licenses from the internet.
• When the list has fully populated, you can filter them in similar ways to games and apps, with the addition of hiding either games or apps from view.
• Selecting a tile with A generates an installation prompt, allowing you to download the game or app to your storage devices.
• If you choose a title with the menu button, you can pin it, view it in the store, see its game hub, manage it, install it, or hide it completely from your ready to install list.
• If you hide it from the list, you won't lose the license. You'll simply have to go and find it again in the store instead if you want to reinstall.
• You can also toggle hidden games and apps by pressing the Left Bumper, Right Bumper and X simultaneously.

Updates

• If your console is in instant-on mode, updates will download automatically while your console is on standby.
• If you're currently using your Xbox One, it appears that potential updates get queued in this tab and wait until you either trigger the download manually by pressing A or for when you put the Xbox in standby mode.
• When there's a download running, you can now see the speed and the amount of data being transferred for the first time.
• The download percentage even appears on the home screen, under "My games & apps" on the top right.

Queue

• Finally, the Queue tab shows the four most recent updates, and which updates, games, and apps are pending download and installation.

A huge leap forward!

The new Games & Apps section on the updated Xbox One dashboard makes for a far more pleasant experience than previous builds. Not only is it faster, but it's also more intuitive and responsive, putting your content at the forefront. It's not the flashiest interface ever made, but it's extremely functional and provides a solid basis for refinement as we head towards Project Scorpio in 2017.

How many games are in your Xbox One library? Let us know in the comments. I'm rocking 165 as of writing!

Need more?

Check out our other articles for more info on the Xbox One Summer Update.

• The Xbox One Summer Update is rolling out, here's the full changelog
• The next Xbox One Update: Xbox Clubs, Arena, and Looking For Group
• Xbox help, tips and tricks
• How to control background audio on Xbox One
• How to turn Cortana on the Xbox One off and on
• How to use the new Games & Apps section
• Xbox Discussion Forums

Have you ever taken your Xbox One to another country?

If you have, you may have stumbled across some rather inconvenient barriers. Until now, things like the interface language and the keyboard language were locked by region. This created issues when living abroad while maintaining a Microsoft Account and payment options in your home country, as well as for nations which practice multiple languages. Additionally, some titles simply have poor localization in certain countries, with multi-lingual users preferring to play games in a language separate from their console's store region.

Thankfully, Microsoft has listened to user feedback and opted to grant language independence from the console's store region.

You can follow the steps below to unlink your console's region from its language. You can use this method to activate Cortana if you're in an unsupported region too by selecting the United States or the United Kingdom as your console's language.

Here's how:

1. Double tap the Xbox logo button on your controller. Or, if you're using a Kinect just say "Xbox, go to settings" and skip to step #3.
2. Select Settings. It is the gear icon.
3. Select All Settings.
4. Select System, then select Language & Location.

Here you have multiple options.

You can:

• Change the system language.
• Language region.
• Location.
• Spoken language.
• Keyboard language.

After making any changes, restart your Xbox One console for changes to take effect!

Need more?

Check out our other articles for more info on the Xbox One Summer Update.

• The Xbox One Summer Update is rolling out, here's the full changelog
• The next Xbox One Update: Xbox Clubs, Arena, and Looking For Group
• Xbox help, tips and tricks
• How to control background audio on Xbox One
• How to turn Cortana on the Xbox One off and on
• How to use the new Games & Apps section
• Xbox Discussion Forums

The Xbox One Summer Update has just started rolling out for Xbox users, bringing a fresh feature for Facebook users!

You can now get Xbox Live friend suggestions by linking your Facebook account to Xbox Live. It will then suggest your Facebook friends who have also connected their accounts to the network. Here's how you can join the party.

1. On your Xbox One, double-tap the Xbox button on your controller to open the Guide menu.
2. Navigate to your friend list and select Suggestions.
3. Select Find Facebook friends.
4. Enter your Facebook credentials.
5. Add any friends who are on the list.

It's as easy as that!

Alternatively, you can achieve the same functionality on a Windows 10 PC or Windows 10 Mobile device using the built-in Xbox app.

Using the app:

1. Find the app on your PC by typing "Xbox" into the Start Menu, or by searching through your app list on a Windows 10 Mobile device.
2. Go to the settings section at the bottom of the hamburger menu, depicted as a cogwheel.
3. Select Link Facebook account, and then enter your log-in details.

The Xbox One is set to get even more social in the future with the addition of Clubs, Arena and Looking for Group. Additionally, thanks to the Universal Windows Platform, the console could one day receive the Facebook app itself, currently available on Windows 10 PCs and phones. We'll just have to wait and see!

Need more?

Check out our other articles for more info on the Xbox One Summer Update.

• The Xbox One Summer Update is rolling out, here's the full changelog
• The next Xbox One Update: Xbox Clubs, Arena, and Looking For Group
• Xbox help, tips and tricks
• How to control background audio on Xbox One
• How to turn Cortana on the Xbox One off and on
• How to use the new Games & Apps section
• Xbox Discussion Forums

How do I use Google Calendar on Windows 10?

Windows 10 has its own calendar app, which makes it easy for you to track all your appointments, events, and vacations right on your PC. However, if you're thinking, "I already have a Google calendar for that," the good news is you can important your Google Calendar into the Calendar app on Windows 10.

• How to import your Google Calendar into the Calendar app on Windows 10 PC
• How to create an event on your Google Calendar in the Calendar app on Windows 10 PC

How to import your Google Calendar into the Calendar app on Windows 10 PC

By default, your Calendar app should be located in your Start menu. If you have removed it from the Start menu, it's readily available through the File Explorer.

1. Click on the Start menu button. It's the Windows icon in the bottom left corner of your screen.

2. Click on the Calendar app.

3. Click on the Settings button. It looks like a gear.

4. Click on Manage Accounts.

5. Click on Add account.

6. Click on Google.

7. Enter your email address.
8. Click Next
9. Enter your password.

10. Click Sign in.

11. Click Allow.

12. Click on Done.

How to create an event on your Google Calendar in the Calendar app on Windows 10

1. Click on the Start menu button. It's the Windows icon in the bottom left corner of your screen.

2. Click on the Calendar app.

3. Click on the date you want.

4. Enter the event name.

5. Click on the check box beside All day. (Don't do this if you want the event to last all day in your Calendar.)

6. Click on the start time.

7. Enter your desired start time.

8. Click on the end time.

9. Enter your desired end time.

10. Click on location. If you don't want to add a location, skip to step 12.

11. Enter your desired location.
12. Click on the dropdown menu beside the calendar.

13. Click on the Google calendar in which you wish to have the event placed. (This should be represented by your gmail address.)

14. Click on the Done button.

Pokémon Go has landed on Windows 10 Mobile in the form of an open-source beta client called PoGo-UWP.

ST-Apps and other developers are contributing to the project on Github, albeit without the blessing of the game's developer, Niantic Labs. While we wait to find out if Niantic and Nintendo will give us an official client, PoGo-UWP might be the best hope we have for playing Pokémon Go on Windows 10 Mobile.

PoGo-UWP might be missing some major features, but it still functions fairly well for such an early version. The app isn't currently available on the Windows 10 Store, but you can download and install the necessary files for free.

We've put together a step-by-step guide complete with a detailed video on how to PoGo-UWP for Pokemon Go running on your Windows 10 Mobile phone.

Set-up PoGo-UWP, step by step

1. Create a Pokémon Trainer Club account. Do that right over here on the official website. You might want to use a spare email account just in case Niantic Labs decides to block accounts for using the app.
2. Log in via the official Android or iOS client. You can do this on a second phone, or you can use Bluestacks, an Android emulator for Windows. For more information on how Bluestacks works, consult the video above.
3. Once you've got the app running, log in and select a starting Pokémon. You have to do this on the official client, as it's not possible on PoGo-UWP at the moment.
4. Log out from the official app by tapping on the Pokeball icon and going to settings.
5. Download these Github files to a PC connected to the same WiFi network as your Windows 10 Mobile, or directly onto your phone: #1 - #2 - #3. Place them in the same folder.
6. Enable Device Portal on your Windows 10 Mobile. Go to Settings and search "For developers". Enable Developer mode, Device discovery, and Device Portal. If you're planning to deploy via your PC, make sure it's connected to the same WiFi network as your phone. Note: You can also juse use a USB cable to your PC and pair that way instead of using WiFi.
7. To deploy from your PC: at the bottom of the Device Portal settings on your phone, you will see an IP address. Navigate to this IP address via a web browser on the PC containing the Github files. See the video above for an example of this in action. To deploy the files straight from your phone without a PC, download them to your handset and navigate to http://127.0.0.1/ on Microsoft Edge, then continue following the steps below.
8. You'll also have to pair your phone to the web browser session. Select "Pair" on your phone to receive a code to input into your browser.
9. Click on the Apps section on the Device Portal in your PC's web browser.
10. Add the file "PokemonGo-UWP_1.0.3.0_ARM_Debug.appx" under Install App, then Add package.
11. Add the two other files as dependencies.
12. Click on Go beneath Deploy. Wait until the app is installed on your phone.
13. Launch PoGo-UWP on your phone, log in with the account you set up earlier, and enjoy!

Update: There has been an update already for PoGo-UWP, bringing the app to version 1.0.7. To update, you need to uninstall the app from your phone by long-pressing and selecting uninstall from the app list. Then, download the latest files from here, and follow the steps above to reinstall the .appx and both dependencies to update.

See PoGo-UWP in action

Whether you're interested in Pokemon Go or just fed up of hearing about it, you have to be impressed by the tenacity of the Windows developer community who are known for providing us with apps and services we often miss out on. And who knows? The developer of a third-party Steam app for Windows 10 Mobile was eventually hired by Valve, leading to an official client.

PoGo-UWP is an open-source work in progress, so don't expect this app to be fully featured or bug-free. We'll follow its development in the coming weeks and months and let you know when it has been updated.

PoGo-UWP known issues

See PoGo-UWP on Github

Microsoft is launching a new feature for Outlook.com users today. The Outlook Interesting calendar feature offers special editions to help users keep track of special events, such as the upcoming 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

In a blog post, Microsoft stated:

Today, we are introducing Outlook Interesting calendar—special calendar additions that help you track your favorite events. You will be able to add the 2016 Summer Games in Rio—as well as other popular sports—to your calendar. From the gold medal round of boxing to swimming relays to the gymnastic routines—we have you covered. Powered by Bing, Outlook Interesting calendar lets you browse a curated list of Summer Games, sports leagues and teams and add them to your calendar. Once added, your events will show up on your Outlook calendar across all your devices. It's simple, intuitive and ensures you don't miss a thing.

Outlook.com users, along with commercial customers of Outlook on the web, can click on the "Add calendar" selection in the command bar and then select the "Interesting calendar." option, After that, they should see a list of available Interesting calendar events on the right side. Users can select one or more of them to add to their Outlook.com calendar. Currently, this feature is limited to North American users. It will be added in the near future to the iOS and Android Outlook apps for Office 365 customers. Once an Interesting calendar selection is added, it should sync up across all devices.

The Windows 10 Anniversary Update includes an easier way to refresh your computer and remove bloatware, and here we tell you how to use the new tool.

When your computer is not working properly, or you simply want a setup free of bloatware, the best solution is to start from scratch doing a clean install of Windows 10 Anniversary Update. However, it can be a tedious process, and even though Microsoft offers a reset feature to reinstall the operating system, it only restores the copy of Windows 10 that originally came with your computer, which may also contain a lot of software and configurations you don't need.

On an effort to make it easier to start with a clean install of Windows 10, Microsoft is introducing "Refresh Windows". It's a tool that lets you easily reinstall the operating system on your desktop, laptop, or tablet while wiping out any bloatware and configurations installed by your PC manufacturer.

"Refresh Windows" is now available for everyone and installs the Windows 10 Anniversary Update!

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through all the steps to use the new refresh tool to reinstall the most recent version of the operating system on your computer.

How to use the 'Refresh Windows' tool

1. Use the Windows key + I keyboard shortcut to open the Settings app.
2. Click Update & security.
3. Click Recovery.

4. Under More recovery options, click the "Learn how to start fresh with a clean installation of Windows". (The link will direct you to a Microsoft Answers post where you can download the tool.)

5. Right-click the Download tool now link and select Save target as to download the file. Here's the direct download link.
6. Double-click the RefreshWindowsTool.exe to start the process.

7. Click the Accept button to agree to the license terms.

8. You'll get two choices to reinstall Windows 10: You can choose Keep personal files only, which will delete all your apps and settings, but retain your files during reinstall. Or you can select Nothing, option that will wipe your computer without retaining anything. Select the option that suits your needs and click Install.

Now the tool will proceed to download and automatically reinstall the most recent version of windows 10 on your computer. After the installation completes, you'll go through the out-of-box experience (OOBE) to finish configuring the operating system.

Follow the on-screen directions to set your language and region settings, choose your personalization settings, setup your Microsoft Account, and activate Cortana.

Once you're back into the desktop, remember to go to Settings > Update & security > Windows update to download the latest patches and missing drivers.

It's also a good idea to check Device Manager to make sure peripherals and other hardware are correctly installed on your computer. (You can open device manager by using the Windows key + X keyboard shortcut and selecting Device Manager.)

If some of the device drivers are missing, make note of the devices, and visit your computer manufacturer's support website to download and install the latest drivers.

Important details before using the tool

Before proceeding to use the "Refresh Windows" tool to clean install Windows 10 Anniversary Update (build 14393) on your system, there are a few details you need to know.

Only three languages are currently supported, including English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Your computer must also be running the 32-bit or 64-bit of the Home or Pro version of Windows 10.

Unlike the reset feature, the refresh tool requires an internet connection to download the most recent version of the operating system, which could be around 3GB in size. In addition, for the download and installation process, make sure to have at least 16GB of free space available on your hard drive.

Furthermore, if the tool cannot install the latest version, you'll be unable to keep your personal files, in which case you'll get an option to cancel the setup if you don't wish to continue.

Using the Refresh Windows tool will wipe out your system's hard drive, removing all applications that you have installed and configured, including Office and applications provided by your PC manufacturer (even device drivers). However, apps that come bundled with Windows 10 will reinstall again automatically during the installation process.

Until the functionality is fully integrated, Microsoft doesn't guarantee digital licenses, digital content associated with applications, or digital entitlements for certain apps will carry over using the new preview tool.

Wrapping things up

Although you can use the reset tool to reinstall the operating system, the new refresh tool will come in handy especially when you buy a new computer, and you want to start with a clean version of Windows 10 without any bloatware installed by your PC manufacturer. It's also a good solution for those times you come across an issue, and for some reason the reset tool doesn't work.

The only caveat is drivers. Even though many device drivers are available through Windows Update, there will be times when a specific driver for a particular piece of hardware will have to be installed manually, which can end up being an issue for non-technical users.

Of course, tech-savvy users can always download the Windows 10 ISO file directly from Microsoft and perform a clean install, but Refresh Windows aims to simplify many of the steps.

Have you tried the tool to refresh Windows 10? Tell us in the comments below.

Use this simple app from Microsoft to force your Windows 10 PC, tablet, or laptop to grab the latest version of the Windows 10 Anniversary Update!

Microsoft released the Windows 10 Anniversary Update today to millions of PCs and laptops. We have a detailed guide on ways to get it. Then the official ISO files became available for those wanting to do a fresh install or upgrade. Now, a fourth way has appeared using a very familiar app: Windows 10 Update Assistant.

If that name rings a bell it is because many of you likely used it in the past to upgrade Windows 7 or Windows 8 to Windows 10 for free. The same app has now been repurposed for use with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update.

So why use it at all and not just Windows Update (via Settings)? Simple, not all PCs "see" the update on Microsoft's servers. Case in point, my favorite Huawei MateBook has been stuck on build 14383 for weeks now on the Insider program and still can't see the official update. I have no idea why that is the case, but I'm taking matters into my own hands with the Windows 10 Update Assistant.

If your PC, tablet, or laptop is not getting the update via Windows Update and you don't feel like using any of the other methods, here is how to get started!

Upgrade using the Update Assistant

1. Navigate to support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/12387/windows-10-update-history using your favorite web browser

2. Click the blue Get the Anniversary Update now button

3. Download and save Windows10Upgrade28084.exe (5.52MB)

4. Run Windows10Upgrade28084.exe

5. Choose Update Now

6. The app will check your device's compatibility

7. If you pass the CPU, Memory, and Disk Space requirements you can hit Next

8. The app will now download the update files and prepare for installation

9. Once completed the app will restart your PC to finish the installation (or you can force it to restart)

That's it! Obviously, this is a very hands-off tool. As long as your computer meets the requirements, you should be up and running in no time.

As a reminder, using this method keeps all of your files, apps, games, photos, etc. on the device.

If you do run into problems with the Anniversary Update make sure to consult our extensive guide "Windows 10 Anniversary Update common problems and how to fix them".

More Windows 10 resources

For more help articles, coverage, and answers on Windows 10, you can visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 Anniversary Update Review
• How to get the Windows 10 Anniversary Update
• Windows 10 Support Forums at Windows Central
• Windows 10 Anniversary Update News
• Windows 10 Tips, Tricks, and How-tos

If you have an Xbox One and a Windows 10 compatible device, did you know there's an app for that?

The Xbox App is the most comprehensive way of having complete control over your Xbox while you're not even playing – bringing together your games, friends lists, achievements between your Xbox and Windows 10 devices. The Xbox Windows 10 App is your home away from home, where the Xbox One is concerned.

Using the app is really simple, but we've made a guide for you in case there are some things you weren't aware of!

• What is the Xbox app?
• Social sharing
• Xbox game management
• Buying Xbox games
• Connection
• Controls
• Settings

What is the Xbox Windows 10 app?

The Xbox Windows 10 app is an application available on all your compatible Windows 10 Devices – even if that's phones, tablets, PCs or laptops. Whether you use it just to keep up with what your friends have been playing while you're offline, or to stream games from your Xbox to your Windows 10 device, the Xbox Windows 10 app has you covered for these things and a lot more.

Please note: An active Xbox Live Gold membership is still required for features such a streaming, and multiplayer.

Social Butterfly

One of the main things you'll notice about the Xbox app on Windows 10 when you're using a tablet or the desktop app is that your friends list always stays with you. Whether you're browsing through your game library, or checking which achievements you have left to get – your friends are always within reach.

Here, you can:

• Instantly access your entire friends list and find the people you're looking for faster by typing their name in the search bar.
• Start a party, regardless of whether they're on Xbox or PC.
• Send a message.
• Check on your Activity alerts.

You can also create posts and share them to your Activity timeline, as well as like, share and comment on your friend's posts.

If you feel like showing off your best self, you can change your profile information by selecting your profile picture on the top of the menu stack. Customize the look of your profile, your biography, and other details on this page.

From here you can also check in on your Activity page, Achievements, Followers & Following and your Captures.

Achievements

Check the Achievements Leaderboard to see who among your friends has unlocked the most over the last 30 days, compare scores and find a list of all the games you've ever unlocked an achievement on.

Followers & Following

This is a list of every person you have added as a friend and on your list currently, and every game you either own on Xbox One or Xbox 360 Backwards Compatibility. Selecting a game will take you to a synopsis page of the game, with a button to the store or to Follow the game. Perform a side by side comparison between you and one friend. In a nice competitive touch, the friend with the higher Gamerscore will celebrate while the other weeps.

Captures

All of your screenshots and game-clips recorded on your Xbox One are accessible from your Windows 10 device. Share your Xbox screenshots to Facebook or Twitter, as well as to your Activity stream.

Trending

What's good on Xbox right now? The most popular creations people have made using Xbox One's Studio are all here waiting for you to get some ideas for your own top quality content. Here, developers will also post community challenges that anyone can be involved in. Watch other people's videos they've made using Studio Upload, comment, like or share.

Xbox game management

There are multiple ways you can currently manage your games library using the Xbox Windows 10 App.

Unlike your Games Library on Xbox One, My Games shows you any games you have installed on your desktop or laptop, which you can launch and play from within the Xbox app. These aren't limited to Microsoft or even Xbox games, specifically. Your Xbox Play Anywhere titles will live here, and you've now got a cross-device multiplaying platform whether you're on Xbox or PC. Forza and Killer Instinct are ready for you all. The game installed on your Xbox One are found in your Followers and Following.

Adding a game

Adding a game from your Windows library is easy – with just one click of Add a game from your PC button, you can select the game you want to add from your installed list. And that's it! If you have purchased games from platforms such as Steam or Origin, you will be required to log in before the game launches. A link at the bottom of the page will take you to the store if you're saving your energy from selecting the store from the sidebar menu.

Game hubs

You can find the game hub by selecting the game you're interested in, which brings you to its page. The button under the page will take you to the hub. Game hubs are your go-to places for updates from developers, seeing which of your friends also plays the game, your Achievement score and ranking, as well as captures. If you don't already follow the game, you can do so here, too. This enables posts from the game to appear in your Activity feed on your Home page.

Streaming

Yep, you can stream your Xbox One games to your PC.

Recording game-clips

You can still access you GameDVR from your Windows10 device, you can even make your Xbox One record while you're playing as well as streaming. Pretty neat, huh?

When you're ready to record a clip, simply select the Connection tab, which looks like a front view of an Xbox One. If you haven't already linked your console to your app, follow the link above. Once the connection is made, you'll have details of your Xbox One on screen. Beneath the game picture is a round red record button. Hit that, and you're remotely recording Xbox One footage! You wizard!

With background recording set on from the settings, you can record the games you play while you play them through the Xbox app – even PC games. When firing a game up, it will ask you if you want to begin recording your microphone and give you the keyboard shortcuts. If you ever wanted to be a YouTube gaming star, this one (free) app gives you all the recording software you need to capture your best sessions. Select the best encoding options in the General settings and there is absolutely no reason for you not to be making Xbox Fail Compilations and Best Of's in no time.

Recording non-gaming content

The Xbox app for Windows 10 also lets you record clips of more than just games.

Buying Xbox games

The Xbox app has a store through which you can buy Xbox One games (which will immediately download to your console), and its laid out exactly as you find on Xbox One, and it includes support for promo code redemption as well as Games With Gold and Deals With Gold. There is even a bar showing the free games.

Not only does the store cater for Xbox One, but you will also find the Windows 10 store. Here are all the games that you can play through Xbox Live on your PC, tablet or in some cases, even phone.

Connection

Connecting your Xbox to the app

If your Xbox One is on the same network as your Windows 10 device, it should automatically pair the two. If this isn't the case, you can select the Xbox you wish to connect to, or add a new one. If you are having issues connecting the Xbox One to the app, the most common way to remedy this is to hard cycle the power on the Xbox One (hold the power-button for ten seconds until it turns off).

OneGuide

If you've set up OneGuide to control your TV with your Xbox One, then you'll be able to also control your TV through your Xbox One by using the Windows 10 Xbox app.

Controls

The Xbox app allows you to use the app itself as a controller, or a TV remote.

Controller

You probably won't choose to play games with the on-screen controller. This is a quick, responsive and easy way to navigate menus onscreen, rather than using your Xbox One controller. If you have a touchscreen device, you can swipe to move, and the on-screen buttons are spaced well.

Remote

If buying a remote for your Xbox One media isn't an option you want to pursue, you can use the remote in the Connection tab to manage it for you. This requires Oneguide to already be set up and working

Volume

What happens if you don't use Cortana and Kinect and there's no remote in sight when you need to adjust the volume? Use the app!

Settings

The Settings tab manages all your personal information, GameDVR, Notifications and Network settings.

General settings

This covers all your sign in details, and your social media links - if you want to share things beyond Xbox Live, this is where you go. Here you can set up adding your Facebook account, which will import all of your contacts who are also on Xbox Live. You can also set up your Twitter connection here, and once this is set up, you can directly share any screenshots or clips you record to your followers.

You can also attend to your notifications here, to select which notifications from Xbox that you can receive to you Windows 10 device. Pick and choose from here which activities you want to be told about, maybe all of them, perhaps none. This is the easiest way to get to these settings without actually being on your Xbox One.

GameDVR

This will cover all of your keyboard controls for using GameDVR via the Windows 10 Xbox app. You can get it to record in the background while playing, capturing and instantly saving up to two hours of footage straight to your hard-drive. You can use the app to even record your microphone while it records your gameplay, so you can essentially create the meat to your new YouTube series without even needing a capture card and various devices.

Do you want to only access the clips you've recorded on Xbox One or through the Xbox app? Select the filter at the top to bring up your preferred platform. You can download the clips straight off of the app to your hard-drive, share them to your Showcase, feed, or Twitter.

Xbox One

Only two settings to be found in this sub-section. Your streaming encoding level, and a setting to use your Windows 10 device as a keyboard instead of using the controller to input from the screen.

Network status

If you want to check that you're connected to the internet, or what the Xbox Live status currently is, this tab will give you the run down of how each service is performing. These will be Network connection, Xbox Live status, Teredo address, packet loss and latency.

Download the Xbox app from the Windows Store

• Download the Xbox app for iOS
• Download the Xbox app for Android

Windows 10 Mobile users now have a workaround so they can add their Gmail account to their Mail client.

There have been many online reports in our fourms and elsewhere from Windows 10 Mobile users who have been unable to add a new Gmail account to the Windows 10 Mobile Mail & Contacts apps; they have instead been getting a "Your browser isn't supported" error message.

Thankfully, "Snickler" over at XDA Developers forums has posted a way he discovered to get around this problem:

• Open the Account settings in the Mail app
• When you see the "Choose an account" menu, click "Other account" which is right above Advanced setup
• Enter your full Gmail email address and password. IF YOU HAVE 2-FACTOR AUTH ENABLED, YOU MUST CREATE AN APPLICATION PASSWORD AND USE THAT INSTEAD
• From there you should start getting e-mail

There is one thing to note about this method. It will only work with email; this workaround does not sync up calendar or contact info.

As to the million dollar question why this is happening now and who is going to fix it first - Microsoft or Google - we are just not sure yet. Windows Central is reaching out to try to find more, but so far, adding new Google accounts to a Windows 10 Mobile device will be problematic.

Thanks again to "Snickler" for the tip!

Download Mail and Calendar from the Windows Store