How to play Windows games on a Mac

Play games designed for Windows on your Mac will not be a hassle . There are a few ways to make that happen and a good selection of software out there to help you. Some virtualization methods are cheaper than others , but programs like CrossOver , Wine , Parallels and VMware will help you do the job. Check out our guide to help you choose the option that suits you you. See also Group test : What 's the best PC game ?

Play Windows games on a Mac with Boot Camp

Apple virtualization solution is very simple . By installing Boot Camp and Windows on your computer, you can run the Windows boot and start playing from there , if your system has the graphics power to keep . Apple says that Boot Camp is a good choice because it does not let the fight against the same performance issues that come with emulators .
You can install Windows and iOS side to side and switch between the two just using Boot Camp . During installation , the auxiliary tool is to host , without removing it from Mac . Partition a Windows operating system A disadvantage is that a reboot every time may change you. Operating systems , which is annoying
Apple Boot Camp is fully compatible with Windows XP , Vista and Windows 7 . You have the option to tell the operating system to default . Restart your computer The files of the programs that are installed will be sent to the operating system partition is active . Boot Camp is a licensed Windows installation disc , it may not be an option for some .

You can see our guide on how to boot with Windows 7 Mac dual or triple here .

Play Windows games on a Mac using Wine

Wine is a free open source alternative 1.4Wine and CrossOver they can save some money . The application is still in Beta , so here and there expect the occasional hiccup . Not all programs smoothly , but the product is still proving to be among the online users very popular.
Wine can access the contents of Windows on a Mac by creating separate prefixes for each application . It is not an application in itself, but a tool that allows your computer to run programs not be used. You will not be much of a performance drop experience either , which is ideal if you want to avoid delay of the game .
As with CrossOver , Wine struggle with new games and skills through previous versions . Be warned , while some applications will work normally, other cargo is all . Linux users need to visit our guide on how to run Windows programs on Linux with Wine .
The wine online database is particularly useful application . It contains the top 25 games and tools that work seamlessly on virtualization , along with fixes known bugs , email support , and a library on the application, the developer navigate . Big titles like World of Warcraft and Blizzard Bethesda Fallout 3 works very well in Wine .
More about Wine 1.4 here .





Play Windows games on a Mac with CrossOver

10This application designed by Code Weaver CrossOver Mac can install on your Mac PC. Many popular Windows applications and games CrossOver is a paid version of Wine , and serves as an alternative that comes with additional support and product updates .
You 'll be pleased to know that an affordable product . Can CrossOver trial for a period of two weeks and then there is a £ 25 price tag for the basic package to offer , giving you a month email support with the software itself .
CrossOver XI is the name of the latest version and it is fully compatible with the latest update for Mac 10.8 Mountain Lion . Linux users are in luck too, although the installation process takes a little longer . If you want to ensure that you are able to use your favorite programs before you will be , it is advisable to try the ' what works ? Feature on the site. Since the use of the tool , we found that CrossOver works with a good selection of popular games including : Team Fortress 2 The Elder Scrolls V : . Skyrim and Portal 2 Valve Steam Client games also supported.
Older applications play much better with CrossOver . If you want the latest versions of Microsoft software , such as Excel , Word and Powerpoint use , you're on a bumpy ride . Code Weaver team warns : " In our tests , we find that these applications have bugs that prevent it running smoothly . "
You do not need a Windows license to run CrossOver needed . Definitely a decent price , but in terms of functionality of the software is far from perfect .
More about CrossOver Mac Standard Edition 10 .


Play Windows games on a Mac with Parallels Desktop 7

Parallels Desktop 7 for Mac Review This is one of the most expensive we've found , but it works a treat . Parallels to run a Windows license but if you sort that out you will be rewarded with one of the softer parts of virtualization software out there . First time buyers will have to pay £ 65 , but the upgrade from earlier versions cost £ 35 . As with CrossOver , a trial version is available .
Mobile users can expand . Their experience in the use of the remote application The mobile application works with the iPad , iPhone and iPod Touch with internet connection and you can control from the palm of your hand your desktop. There is a slight decrease in visual quality , but the app is only £ 2.99 .
Although Parallels Desktop 7 is more expensive than the other programs that we have covered , is relatively easy to use and works well with most tasks . A recent update means that the program not only works with Apple Mountain Lion , but also build the current Windows 8 Preview .
Features include integrated store which to buy your Windows programs and the ability to Mac iSight camera from within the Windows operating system . The installation is very simple and Microsoft Office 2010 , which many other virtualization tools struggle with , works perfectly here .
You may have to pay more than CrossOver , but the features included with Parallels Desktop 7 justify the discharge. You can read our full review of Parallels Desktop 7 here.

Play Windows games on a Mac with VMware Fusion 4

VMware Fusion 4VMWARE offers customizable features that most virtualization programs we have seen . Costs £ 39.99 , offers a variety of features and user interface modes . You can choose from a full screen option , a viewing window mode Unity . VMware recommends Unity eye for most users , offering an experience " fully integrated " . Choose this option , and you do not see the Windows taskbar or icons . It will seem like you are using a Mac regularly to the untrained eye, but you will also work undercover windows.
If you've tried Parallels Desktop and fancy a change , allows you to import VMware virtual machines above . It is a useful function , taking into account the creation of new partitions from scratch may take a while . Also do not need to reboot when you change your operating system.
Fusion applications such as Microsoft Project , Access and Internet Explorer , but how they do in the game process ? VMware online reports suggest that may be involved in the execution of games smoothly temperamental. You should be able to use your peripherals , however , that the application only Windows USB devices such as gamepads and joysticks handle.
VMware Fusion 4 for Mac is £ 39.99 and you can try it for 30 days before deciding whether to make the purchase or not. The bundle package in the official product website offers a good value for money , which comes with 18 months of free email support and 12 - month free subscription to McAfee antivirus .

Read More

Windows 8.1 RTM Download now officially available on MSDN and TechNet

MSDN and TechNet Windows 8.1 users can now download official RTM bits. It is fair to say that , in terms of new releases of Windows go , Windows 8 was not the most well received . With many user reviews dismayed at the extent of the changes , Microsoft has recently returned to the drawing board , holding a number of new implementations while offering a bit more insight into the procedure .

The drastic change from the traditional home button is perhaps the most talked about feature of the party, and although it is quite small in the grand scheme of the Microsoft operating system , many users had drawn feel like the proverbial rug out from under them when the function in the long term rather unceremoniously retired.

Not long ago we heard that Windows 8.1 was officially RTM , but now it actually has thrown the two tied to the development networks . Initially , the Redmond insisted on TechNet and MSDN subscribers would not be seeing the version before the official release of 18 October - a decision that sparked a large protest .

Bowing to the pressure , and not for the first time , Microsoft backup - follow to keep happy to developers . To be honest, the original plan to hold back until later RTM would probably be at the expense of general operating system - a point repeated continuously by the developers of discomfort .

In addition to the release of the RTM , Microsoft also said that even changes in Windows 8.1 at this stage , despite the limitations of time means nothing too serious happens , the final push to the finishing touches will be attributable to the applicable initial decision to implement the early release of MSDN and TechNet .

The Windows 8.1 official release date for the general public is scheduled for October 18 , many new and exciting features. It will be a completely free upgrade for those who already have a machine or device is capable Windows 8 fluctuate , and is the second installment of a continuous connection with the annual release cycle .

We will keep you informed of any changes as we find them interesting, so stay tuned !

We also recommend you visit:

From Windows 8.1 Changes: This is what's new

New Features and Fixes Windows 8.1 Microsoft has announced

You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to stay updated on the latest news from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web. 

Read More

Everything you need to know about HDMI 2.0 ( Hint : You do not need new cables)

Cables are not sexy technology . So it's no surprise that the innovations and developments in the cables that allow home entertainment both tend to fly under the radar for the average consumer . But HDMI 2.0 is a little different , because its introduction is strongly linked to the promotion of the Ultra HD or 4K TVs. With Panasonic and Sony launched their latest 4K/Ultra HD TVs at IFA 2013 this week , HDMI 2.0 gave much lip service . As a result , even consumers who do not have the new generation of TVs are starting to ask questions : Do I have to buy new cables? Is it different connector ? How long will it take for my HDMI equipment is outdated ?

Here's the short answer : You have nothing to fear. You have nothing to do , because even HDMI 2.0 opens a new world of possibilities on TV, nothing changes on the cables or connectors . Here's everything you need to know about HDMI 2.0 .

You can thank Ultra HD 4K

HDMI 2.0 is the successor to 1.4a / b HDMI today most of us use the standard works well , why change ? The main reason is that 4K Ultra HD TVs require more bandwidth to fulfill their potential. Since 4K Ultra HD is four times the resolution of 1080p , the current standard of HD , means that there is a need for more performance additional data that come and go deal . There is much more .

HDMI 1.4 can 4K resolutions , yes , but they only support 24 or 30 frames per second . That works fine for movies , but it is of no use for games and many television programs 50 or 60 frames per second . Also HDMI 1.4 4K content limits Ultra HD 8 - bit color , but is capable of 10 or 12 bit color . HDMI 2.0 solves all that , as it can handle up to 18 gigabits per second. That's enough for 12 - bit color video is at 60 frames per second. But wait , there's more!

Get ready  crazy Dolby surround sound 

HDMI 2.0 can handle 32 channels of uncompressed audio . If that sounds like an exaggeration , well ... could be for some. But do not tell the guys at Dolby . The latest Dolby surround sound format Atmos is capable of 64 channels of surround sound in cinemas . Expand to 32 channels (or less ) for a homemade version of Dolby Atmos is now within reach . And we are working on something that Dolby exactly . On good authority Yet your ears excited? They should.

Do not pull HDMI cables

As mentioned above , HDMI 2.0 does not change over the size , shape, or wiring HDMI cables. Have to end devices that are compatible with HDMI 2.0 are existing cables work fine . And as HDMI 2.0 is compatible with previous versions of HDMI , you can connect your Blu - ray of age and / or A / V receiver to a new HDMI 2.0 equipped 4K Ultra HD without any problem .

Soon you'll be less remotes

While you do not need to pull your HDMI cables in the trash , you may soon be able to have a remote control burning party (actually , that sounds toxic and irresponsible . Maybe just put a shot instead ) . If you are not familiar with CCA , is a protocol that allows a device is connected to another control , and vice versa . That 's why you can often control the Blu - ray with the TV remote control , even though they come from different brands. However , the application of the CEC has always been to the manufacturer , sometimes you give and sometimes not. No more "sometimes" people . With HDMI 2.0, there are rules that the inclusion of certain control functions. Very soon , a remote control can be a lot more devices , and whip operate without an encyclopedia of remote control codes and punch four digits in many combinations of buttons. Does not that sound good ?

HDMI cable for some, HDMI 2.0 is only a download away

When Sony announced their new 4K TVs at IFA 2013 , was also announced that most of its existing 4K games can be upgraded to HDMI 2.0 in late 2013 through a simple firmware update . Just download the update and install the TV shows . And if Sony can do it, that means you probably party too. We will in time that manufacturers and devices that can make a simple firmware update process, but it's good to know that an update will not always lead to a technician screwdriver or expensive .

What can you do ?

All bandwidth opens up many possibilities . The forum says HDMI HDMI 2.0 allows simultaneous delivery of dual video streams for multiple users on the same screen is possible - just imagine what they could do video games ! Moreover, hardcore cinephiles happy to know that this latest version supports 21:09 aspect ratios , so you can probably expect more ultra large TVs soon see .

There you have it . It's a brave new world HDMI 2.0 and do not need to do to enjoy its benefits. Well ... except maybe buy a very expensive 4K Ultra HD TV and wait for the emission and other things like that . Still, it is good to know that we will be adopted without at least a few years gut and replace home entertainment systems . Unless , of course , HDbaseT takes off . 

Add All Friends in your Group just One Click...!!

You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to stay updated on the latest news from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web. 

Read More

Google to name next Android ™ Kit Kat ® ™ Settles Bizarre license with Nestle ®

Google seems a licensing agreement with Nestlé wanted to have reached to the name. " KitKat " the next version of Android used Although the announcement of the name by Sundar Pichai of Google this morning shook immediate wave of reactions , seems to go beyond just a name .

If you visit Google ' on Android " page , you will see a full - on Kit Kat bar (the company uses" Kit Kat " , not " KitKat "to describe the candy ) with Android - theme packs a link. to " see what you've won ' leading to the American zone for Kit Kat bars . This is a very odd couple for a technology company and a company of candy.

We have come to Google for more information about what exactly is the deal here , and confirmed that there is no exchange of money between the two companies . Apparently it is a cross - promotion agreement as equals .

The contest runs Google Nexus 7 Play vouchers and credit participants Kit Kat bars . Android will also be a number of bars so real in some markets .

Interestingly, the Android - site link takes you to the Hershey website , although Nestle makes Kit Kat bars in most of the world . This stems from an old license agreement between Hershey and Rowntree ( which was acquired by Nestlé ) , which Hershey possibility of licensing the name of the Kit Kat in the U.S. maintains This has led to much confusion about whether Hershey and Nestle 's behind the agreement .

A BBC report quoted today John Lager Ling , director of Android global partnerships saying that " this is not a form of money that changes hands - agreement " and that he is about to do something fun and unexpected . Lower Ling also says that previously considered Key Lime Pie was vetoed because they felt that many people may not know what it tastes like key lime pie .

" One of the snacks that we keep for encoding are KitKats night in our kitchen and someone said . " Hey , why do not we call the release KitKat ?
" We do not even know what the controlled company name , and we think [ the elections ] would be difficult. But why not think about it and decided to reach people of Nestle " .
Mr. Lager Ling said he had made a " cold call " the exchange of advertising Nestlé UK in late November to establish the alliance.
The next day , the Swiss company invited him to participate in a conference call. Nestle confirmed the agreement just 24 hours later .
" Frankly , we decided to say when we will do it , " Patrice Bula , Nestle 's marketing chief told the BBC .

The obvious benefits for Google are massive exposure in convenience stores and supermarkets . While Android devices large and small Kit Kat bear the nickname , resulting in a series of increasing brand awareness for the candy maker .

That said , Google is a company fueled by advertisers and brands. No matter what the intentions you have the products 'large' ( he does and has ) make their motivation with regard to balance the privacy of the users and profitability will always be in the forefront of discussions on Android . I 'm not so sure that's a great idea for a company like that playing with this kind of cross- promotion rarity . But what do I know I 'm only one line of data matrix targeting an advertiser .

Nestlé will produce more than 50 million of those aforementioned Kit Kat bars with Android mascot on them . Most Google employees apparently only heard the news once the statue was presented at Google HQ . The statue ? A giant Android mascot makes a Kit Kat bar .


You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to stay updated on the latest news from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web. 

Read More

How to start Windows 8 in Safe Mode

Troubleshooting Windows based PC has many steps. You can try system restore if necessary , or play with the MSConfig utility , or test system, depending on the nature of the problem we are facing. Of all the steps to solving common problems , Safe Mode is one of the most used. Start your computer in safe mode is something you should always try and face a problem with a normal startup, even if you do not know much about what you are doing . This is the standard for PC users for years, until Windows 8 in Safe Mode suddenly missing . Similar to wireless ad - hoc connection in Windows 8, it's not like the mode of implementation is completed, it's just buried deep , and requires a series of steps to be activated . In this post we will guide you how to boot a Windows 8 PCs in safe mode.

There are two approaches to achieving safe mode of Windows 8. Anyone can get a machine that can boot normally , where it is much easier to do in safe mode, or if you have a computer not to restart in normal mode, where you have to rely on the Recovery Console for Windows 8 these mode .

Boot in Safe Mode If Windows is running normally

In this case , all you have to do is make some changes for the MSConfig utility , and the next boat will get up and run the PC in safe mode.

Step 1 : Press Win + R to get the Run window. Type " msconfig" (without the quotes ) and launch the utility.

Step 2 : On the Home tab , see Safe Boot , followed by the type of safe mode you want to accomplish . hit Apply

That's it - if you reboot your computer after going to boot into safe mode .

A notable mention here is the fact that with this configuration , the system always starts in safe mode. To return to normal operation , simply restart msconfig and disable secure boot . The next reboot (and later) is back to normal Windows 8 environment .

Windows 8 Booting in safe mode If the PC does not boot

This is a bit tricky, because it takes trial and error ( and patience) to Windows 8 " recovery mode " start when the start sequence is running. What you should do is , beyond the BIOS screen , hold down the Shift key and press F8 key repeatedly . You'll have to go into recovery mode , but it may take several attempts before they succeed.

Once the recovery screen appears , click View Advanced Options button repair. On the next screen , click the Troubleshoot button .

When troubleshooting menu , click Advanced, which is the Windows startup configuration . Choose .

The next screen will ask you to restart your PC again after you see the Advanced Boot Options screen family - the same one that has been around since Windows XP - and you can choose Safe Mode.

Really not sure why Microsoft would be as useful as safely buried so deep and complicated within the different screens , but certainly not convenient, to say the least . However, there is , and you can certainly get there if you know where to look.

We also recommend you visit:

More About Windows 8 Tips

You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to stay updated on the latest news from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web. 

Read More