PC World Video Podcast

Gateway Ultraportable Laptop With Full-Sized Keyboard

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Gateway's ultraportable EC1430u laptop is a good choice for someone on the go who is looking for a Windows7 machine with a large keyboard. With a 16:9 aspect ratio screen and HDMI-out it can also power an external monitor or TV.

Palm Pixi is an Inexpensive Entry-Level Smartphone

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The Pixi, the second smartphone to run the Web OS, is a good choice for those new to the smartphone arena. This little sibling to the Palm Pre has a lot going for it. Assistant Editor Ginny Mies shows us around.

Snapshot Photo Printers For The Holiday Season

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Both Epson's PictureMate Charm PM 225 Compact Photo Printer and HP's Photosmart A646 Compact Photo Printer cost roughly the same, but which would better suit your needs? One printer has high quality photos but few options; the other printer's quality is not as quite good but it lets you print more sizes of photos and has other interesting features. Melissa Riofrio, PC World's printer expert, explains the differences.

Augmented Reality is Coming to a Device Near You

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

We've all seen augmented reality in the movies: a character puts on a pair of glasses and suddenly data about their surroundings appears within their field of vision. However, this technology now is about to be available on a device near you. Senior editor Mark Sullivan takes a look at recent developments, including BMW's project that puts repair data on the inside of glasses for mechanics, an iPhone app that uses the camera and compass to provide location-based information, a demo of an augmented reality assisted GPS system, and the University of Washington's efforts to display data on contact lenses.

Dell's Stylish Latitude Z600 Charges Wirelessly

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Dell's Latitude Z600 ultraslim laptop isn't your average PC--and with a starting price of $2500, you probably wouldn't buy it for yourself. However, this sleek dream laptop (#6 on the PC World 100 top products of 2009) geared for a business executive has the added luxury of wireless charging (a $250 option). The PC also has a separate ARM CPU--handy if you want to open your e-mail without booting up the entire notebook. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone tells you why this sharp PC opens a window into the future of computing.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1: A Great DSLR Alternative

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The slimmest Micro Four-Thirds System camera yet, the industrial-looking Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 is the most enticing non-DSLR we've seen to date. With a compact frame, interchangeable lenses, HD video-shooting capabilities, and simple but versatile controls, this camera is an excellent alternative to an entry-level DSLR.

Digital Demolition: Can a Phone and Camera Withstand the Dunk Test?

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The Olympus Stylus Tough-8000 point-and-shoot and the Sonim XP3 Quest rugged phone are supposed to be tough. How tough? Sarah and Chris, PC World's Digital Demolition team, drop them, dunk them, toss them and run one over with an SUV. Take a look to see if they survive.

Motorola Droid Gets Cautious Thumbs Up

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

We just got our hands on the first phone running Android 2.0, Motorola's Droid. Available on the Verizon network, the phone features a 5-megapixel camera, a slide-out keyboard, a high resolution screen, and Google Navigation with turn-by-turn GPS. Ginny Mies takes it out for a spin.

A Look at Apple's Multi-Touch Magic Mouse

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Apple's newest input device, the Magic Mouse, connects wirelessly through Bluetooth and recognizes multi-touch gestures. Senior Editor Roman Loyola gives it a try.

How to Automate Windows7 Backups

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Senior Editor Robert Strohmeyer takes a look at how to set up and automate backups in Windows7 and shows you how to restore files after a meltdown.

How To Set Up a Windows 7 Network

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

When Senior Editor Robert Strohmeyer held his Windows 7 launch party, his guests got tips on how to set up a Windows 7 network, how to share files--and cake! Robert was inspired by Microsoft's campaign to hold the party. Check out this Redmond-inspired video on how to host and plan your own Windows 7 launch party, but be sure to check out some of the parody videos elsewhere on the page.

New Flip MinoHD Pocket Camcorder Has Solid Improvements

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Slick looks, a solid metal build, and a number of refinements make the second-generation Flip Video MinoHD one hot pocket camcorder.

Digital Demolition: Hard Drive vs. Flame Thrower!

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

In the second Digital Demolition show, Macworld Editor Chris Holt gets hold of an external hard drive, the ioSafe, that's designed to withstand home catastrophes such as floods and fires. After a dunking in a public fountain and a run-in with a 3000-degree fire cannon, will the ioSafe still deliver us our data?

Get Prints in Minutes with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 7 Camera

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Lightweight and compact, Fujifilm's Instax Mini 7 is a modern version of a Polaroid camera. After pressing the shutter, a credit card-size color photo emerges from the top of the camera body. The print develops in minutes.

How to Install Windows 7 (Before Your OS Launch Party)

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Microsoft begged us all to host Windows 7 launch parties to celebrate the intro of its newest operating system. So allow Senior Editor Robert Strohmeyer to show you how to install Windows 7 easily so everything will be ready for your Microsoft-based festivities.

Presented By:

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Samsung's Dual Screen TL255 Digital Camera

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Samsung's dual-view TL225 features two LCD screens, one of which is on the face of the camera. The camera is also completely operable via its touchscreen interface, and incorporates both an accelerometer and haptic feedback.

New Mobile Internet Devices at the Intel Developer Forum

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

One focus of this year's Intel Developer Forum is small portable computing devices running a variety of Windows operating systems. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone takes a look at the Viliv S10 Blade, the Archos 9 PC tablet, and the Umid M1.

Fast USB 3.0 Camera at the Intel Developer's Forum

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At the Intel Developer's Forum, a USB 3.0 camera was on display that was streaming uncompressed 1080p video to a monitor. Darren Gladstone took a look at the extremely high data transfer rates that USB 3.0 promises.

Apple iPod Nano's Video Capabilities: A Closer Look

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Everyone's raving about the addition of a video camera to the iPod Nano, but is it really that impressive? Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a look.

Zune HD Features Solid Improvements

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The Zune HD marks a huge improvement from last year's model in speed, usability, and video quality. In addition to an OLED multitouch display, Microsoft's media player also features high-def video playback capabilities, sports an HD radio receiver, and has had a sleek and stylish makeover.

How to Manage Multiple Users with Windows7

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Take a look at some of the features in Windows 7 that allow you to manage multiple users on the same machine. Robert Strohmeyer is your host.

Canon Updates SD PowerShots for the Fall

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a real fast look at two new Canon PowerShots, the SD980 IS and the SD940 IS. The SD980 is the first point-and-shoot from Canon that features a touchscreen, and both cameras now include a mini-HDMI port, the ability to shoot 720p video, and image stabilization.

Digital Demolition: Three Laptops Take a Beating

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

In the first episode of Digital Demolition, Chris and Sarah take three "rugged" laptops from Dell and Panasonic and put them through their paces. Can these PCs survive being frozen, dropped, getting dirty and taking a shower with a member of our staff? You'll have to watch to find out.

A Look at Security Improvements in Windows7

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Take a look at some of the User Account Control features in Windows 7, as well as the new System and Security Action Center, troubleshooting tools, and power management options. Robert Strohmeyer is your host.

K-Box Speaker System: Turn Surfaces into Sound

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Kerchoonz introduces a speaker that you plug into your laptop, phone, mp3 player, or portable gaming device. The twist? Place the speaker onto any surface, which will then act as a sub-woofer. When used on any solid flat surface, wall, table or even a windows, the K-box turns the surface into sound with a truly incredible bass response. Senior Editor Tim Moynihan checks it out.

The Best of Best Buy's Back-to-School Laptops

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

As the back-to-school season approaches, many of the "big box" electronics retail stores are making arrangements with computer manufacturers to sell exclusive versions of their laptops. PC World Notebook Guru Darren Gladstone visits Best Buy to check out four laptops that range in price from $650 to $800.

X-Series Walkman Music Player Features OLED Screen and Crisp Audio Quality

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Sony has finally taken the wraps off its latest addition to the famous Walkman family, the X-Series. Apart from the fantastic noise-canceling technology and stellar audio, the device also has a crisp and vibrant OLED screen. Staff Editor Ginny Mies takes a look.

New Instrument Makes Music With Lasers

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

This new instrument allows people to make music by passing their hands through six laser beams that trigger different streams of musical notes and sounds. Two buttons on the front of the device toggle between banks of instruments, chords, music clips, sounds effects and rhythms. Assistant Editor Nick Mediati takes a look.

iPhone Astronomy Apps

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

With the recent news about outer space -- the anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, the July 15 Space Shuttle launch and recent landing, and news of an asteroid or comet smashing into Jupiter -- itâ€™s easy to get excited over galactic exploration. In this video, we show you three iPhone apps that you can use to learn more about astronomy and space: Planets (free), Pocket Universe ($2.99), and Space Geek ($1.99).

A Sneak Peak at the Xbox 360 Live's Upcoming Update

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Microsoft games-on-demand service for the Xbox 360 is ready and the company will push the service out to all existing subscribers on August 11. The update also adds UI goodies for Xbox live users who subscribe to Netflix, as well as a new Avatar Marketplace that lets you outfit your digital alter ego with apparel from popular fashion labels and Xbox 306 games. Darren Gladstone takes a sneak peek at the upgrades.

T-Mobile's MyTouch 3G is A Much-Improved Google Phone

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The T-Mobile MyTouch 3G is T-Mobile's second smartphone running Google's Android mobile operating system. And while the phone has much going for it--a lightweight design, a gorgeous screen, and the 1.5 update to the Android OS--it's not without its flaws.

Apple iTunes: How to Organize and Manage Your Music Collection

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

If you've ever owned an iPhone or an iPod, chances are you now manage your music using iTunes. The iTunes software is pretty good, but not perfect. You can make it better by using these tips and tricks help you delete duplicate tracks, fix song names and metadata, retrieve album art and lyrics, and more.

Presented By:

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Adapx's Digital Pen is a Breakthrough

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The concept is simple: You write with a pen on paper, plug the pen into a computer, and everything you've written converts into digital text. That's the idea behind Adapx's pricey Capturx pen-and-software packages. This digital pen works very well, but only with Microsoft Office OneNote, which is not included.

Remix This: Monster YouTube Remixes

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

What do Stephen Colbert of the Colbert Report, Frank Sinatra, and a clutch of music instruction videos have in common? They've all been involved in creative remixed mashup videos on YouTube. Senior Associate Editor Mark Sullivan researched the phenomenon and shows you some of the best. Don't you dare remix him!

Four New Digital Cameras with Impressive In-Camera Features

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

It's easy to overlook some of the hidden in-camera features when you're reading spec sheets on the hardware. Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a look at four new cameras: Olympus' SP-590UZ, Sony's Cybershot DSC-HX1, Canon's Powershot SX200 IS, and FujiFilm's FinePix F200EXR. These cameras include two types of panoramic mode, great low-light settings, or a color accent feature. Join Tim as he explains how each works.

Smart phone Speed Tests: Which New Phone Is Best For Impatient Users?

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Wondering which of the hot new smartphones is the fastest? PC World's Ginny Mies puts the iPhone 3G S, Nokia's N97, and the Palm Pre through some straightforward speed tests. See how each did in comparative tests of how long it takes to power up, add a contact, or open your e-mail inbox.

Intel Day: New Car Technologies and 3D Game Graphics

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At Intel Day 2009 at the Computer History Museum, Intel shows off a new technique for ray tracing in games with a demo of Quake Wars. The company also exhibits new concepts for integrating mobile devices and on-the-go data updates with your car. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone is your guide.

New Firefox 3.5 is a Solid Upgrade

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Firefox 3.5 is now final and includes great new features and improvements, including private browsing, geo-location, multi-tabbed browsing, and more. PC World's Nick Mediati takes a look.

Kinder, Gentler iPhone 3G S Stress Tests

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

It's become an annual tradition: Apple releases a new iPhone, PC World tries to break it. We did it with the first iPhone. We did it with iPhone 3G. Now, it's the iPhone 3G S's turn. This year, our torture -- whoops -- coercive interrogation was more mental than physical. Could the phone's Voice Control, Compass and smudge-proof screen withstand the withering pressure? You'll see.

Intel Day: Cool New Research Projects From the Chip Giant

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At Intel Day 2009 at the Computer History Museum, Intel demonstrated a system for object recognition that looked like a step towards Terminator-style heads-up displays. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone was a willing victim; he also spent some of his day looking at collaborative techologies for classrooms.

This Summer's Smartest Phones

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

With a handful of new smartphones coming out soon, we take a look at four new models: the Palm Pre, two phones from HTC including the new Google G2, and a great music phone from Sony Ericsson. If you're in the market for a new phone, one of these might be perfect.

A 32Gb iPhone, Cheaper Laptops, and More at Apple's WWDC

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At the Worldwide Developer's Conference in San Francisco, Apple announced the 32Gb iPhone 3Gs, an series of faster and cheaper laptops, an update to OS X called Snow Leopard, and other additions to the iPhone 3.0 SDK. Roman Loyola was on hand to analyze the announcements.

Hands Take Flight with the Peregrine Sensory Input Gaming Glove

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Iron Will Technologies debuts a sensory input glove for gamers, the Peregrine. The glove, which is powered by TouchPoint technology, connects via USB with standard keyboard drivers and will be commercially available later this year.

Sony's PSP Go and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

One of the worst kept secrets at this year's e3 was that Sony would announce an new version of the PSP called the Go. Senior writer Darren Gladstone managed to get hold of one at the show and was generally impressed. Also on the show floor was a fabulous looking game, Uncharted 2.

New Wii Remote and Fresh Games at e3

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Nintendo showed a slew of products for the Wii at e3 this year, including the new Wii Motion Plus remote control. With a better ability to track movements, users can perform gestures such as stringing and firing an arrow or playing more accurate golf games. In addition, the company released Wii Fit Plus and the Wii Sports Resorts games, following up on the popularity of the company's balance board.

Palm Pre Delivers (Mostly) on Its Promise

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The Palm Pre smartphone and the company's much-anticipated new operating system --called webOS-- has just been released. WebOS is clean, engaging and intuitive but the main problems, in fact, lie in the hardware and construction of the device. Assistant editor Ginny Mies takes a look to see if the Pre can help Palm regain much-needed marketshare.

Presented By:

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Microsoft's Natal Provides Controller-Free Gaming; Also, Halo 3, ODST

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At e3 2009 in Los Angeles, Microsoft showed some impressive demos of Project Natal, a method of interacting with a screen using more of your body than just your hands. The system is set up with a camera that uses motion detection and that lets you throw away your game controller. Also at the show, the newest version of the game Halo 3, ODST was demo'ed. It now includes a multiplayer mode.

Evaluating Nintendo Wii Fitness Games With a Pro

Sat, 30 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

With the recent release of Active for the Wii by EA Sports, Senior Writer Darren Gladstone got together with a personal trainer to evaluate a slew of fitness games. They took a look at Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009, Gold's Gym Cardio Workout, EA's Active, and Nintendo's Wii Fit. Check out how the battle of the fitness games played out!

The Stars of The SkyMall Catalog

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

We've all picked up the SkyMall catalog whle flying. But have you ever wondered how good the products are? Our intrepid Senior Associate Editor Mark Sullivan ordered a dozen products from the SkyMall catalog. In this video, he looks at four, including a roll-up USB Drum Kit and the Electronic Feng Shui Fortune Compass. Stay tuned for the full article!

Awesome Sub-$200 Point-and-Shoot Cameras

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a look at four of the best deals from Panasonic, Pentax, Nikon, and Sony.

New SmartPhone Makes a Great Impression

Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The Samsung Impression has a fanstastic display--the first commercially available AMOLED (active-matrix organic light-emitting diode) screen. With a roomy full QWERTY keyboard, an intuitive touchscreen interface, and some advanced features, the Impression is one of the best midrange messaging phones we've seen. It has a few quirks, though, as it lacks voice dialing, a camera flash, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and is a bit pricy. Assistant editor Ginny Mies takes a look.

How to Install Ubuntu on Any PC

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

In this walkthrough, senior editor Robert Strohmeyer takes you through the steps needed to install Ubuntu on a PC. The community developed, Linux-based operating system contains a slew of applications and is fast to boot up and operate.

Presented By: Intel® Xeon® Processor 5500 Series

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

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Digitize Your Vinyl Records With This USB Turntable

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The PT-01USB Turntable from Numark is designed to easily let you turn your old vinyl records into modern-day MP3 files. With its bundled software, the device can separate each side of an "album" into individual tracks. Senior associate editor Mark Sulllivan takes it out for a spin and lets you know his recommendation.

How to Give Your PC A Windows 7 Makeover

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Some of Windows 7's new interface tweaks are pretty slick, which is why software developers have already started cranking out copycat tweaks for Windows Vista (and, in some cases, XP). Follow along as we show you how to add these utilities to freshen up your PC's UI.

Aliph's Jawbone Prime Bluetooth Headset is a Solid Upgrade

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The $130 Aliph Jawbone is an extremely comfortable to wear Bluetooth headset that features excellent call quality. It's also something of a fashion statement, since it has a striking textured surface and is available in seven colors. The device's standout feature: It does an especially fine job of background noise cancellation.

Six HD Pocket Camcorders Compared

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a look at six HD, YouTube-friendly pocket camcorders from Pure Creative, Kodak, Sony, and the brand new FlipHD from Pure Digital. With features ranging from a wide-angle lens to variable frame rates, one of these devices in the $150- to $200-range is bound to be a great fit for your needs.

Three Twitter Apps for the iPhone

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Thanks to Oprah and Aston, Twitter is all the rage. Fortunately you can keep tabs on your twitter feed from your iPhone. We take a look at three apps--Tweetie, Twiterrific, and TwitterFon.

Sexy LG Prada II a Big Improvement

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

If you're looking for a phone that's a fashion statement, you'll be on the right track with the LG Prada II. And while it has a great feature set and a user-friendly interface, its lack of integrated GPS is a disappointment, especially in view of its high price.

Essential Photo Editing Techniques

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Purists might say that photography is all about pressing the camera's shutter release, but editing is an integral part of digital photography. So here's a handful of editing techniques to help you correct your photo's exposure, adjust color balance, eliminate perspective distortion, and remove digital noise.

PC World Test Center: Power Consumption Tests

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

PC World's Test Center ran a series of power consumption tests on laptops, desktops, HDTVs, and LCD monitors to determine how much energy they used in a variety of states from simply plugged in, to beingh run at maximum capabilities. Test Center Director Jeff Kuta explains the process and our (somewhat) surprising conclusions..

Is Dell's Adamo is a Svelte but Expensive MacBook Air?

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Dell's Adamo is taking a clear stab at the market for Apple's MacBook Air with a highly stylized design. The Adamo only includes a 1.4GHz CPU, but features a wider screen and bigger keyboard than the MacBook Air. But how does it measure up otherwise? Darren Gladstone compares the two laptops.

How to Buy a Monitor

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Which monitor you need depends on the applications you use, the amount of desk space you have, and how much you want to spend. But once you've determined the appropriate screen size, what's the best way to decide amongst all the other options? Consumer Affairs Correspondent Amber Bouman covers all the important issues.

How to Fine-Tune Your HDTV

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Straight out of the box, your high-definition television might not be showing off its best picture quality. We show you how to tweak on-board color, brightness, and contrast settings and we point out a couple of tools for more precisely calibrating your screen.

Hands On with Nintendo's DSi

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Nintendo's recently released DSi has a host of new features, including two 0.3-megapixel webcams, sound editing and playback, and SD card slot, slightly larger screens, and the new DSi Shop Channel. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone tells you what works, and what doesn't.

What's Great About IE8?

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

With all the fanfare about the recent release of Internet Explorer 8, it's easy to miss why it's a great improvement over its predecessor. Assistant Editor Nick Mediati takes a look at the improvements in security, tabbed browsing, the accelerator feature, and improved web compatibility.

Web 2.0: Social Networking Still Hot!

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At the Web 2.0 Expo in San Francisco, the emphasis was on social networking tools that raged from aggregating all your networks in a single interface, Twittering by voice from your cellphone, using a virtual Sim-like city to add events to your social calendar, and a cross-platform video-conferencing tool.

Nintendo's Zelda for the New DSi and Punch-Out for the Wii

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Nintendo has announced a new version of Zelda for the upcoming DSi, as well as Punch-Out for the Wii. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone takes a look.

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GDC 2009: Dexter (and Other Games) For Your iPhone

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

At the Game Developers Conference 2009, we saw a demo of the new iPhone game based on Showtime's Dexter TV series, as well a slew of other iPhone apps.

GDC 2009: OnLive in Action and Xbox Games on your Cell Phone

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Want to play a high-end PC game on your TV without having to pay for the hardware? How about high-quality racing games on your cell phone? By the end of this year you'll be able to do both. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone breaks down some of the cool tech on display at the 2009 Game Developer's Conference in San Francisco.

Casio's Hi-Speed Exilim EX-FC100 Point-and-Shoot

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Casio's $400 high-speed Exilim EX-FC100 point-and-shoot camera features an array of impressive features in a tiny package. Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a look at the camera's HD video capabilities, its slow-motion capture ability, and its 30 frames-per-second burst mode.

Dual-Screen Laptops

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Are two screens really better than one? Lenovo's latest, the ThinkPad W700ds, offers a slide-out display behind its main screen. Meanwhile, Fujisu's LifeBook N7010 has a tiny touchscreen below the main monitor. Senior Writer Darren Gladstone takes a look.

How to Instantly Shut Down Your PC

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Are you tired of clicking relentlessly to get your PC to shut down? Follow these keyboard shortcuts and power options tips for both Windows XP and Vista and get your machine to power down much faster.

How to Buy a Camcorder

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Whether you want shots of your new baby or to be the next Stanley Kubrick, there's a digital camcorder out there for you. But not all camcorders are created equal. Consumer Affairs Correspondent Amber Bouman will help you pick the right device for your videographic needs. Let us be your guide.

New iPod Shuffle with Voice-Navigation

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Apple's latest version of its iPod Shuffle features a very compact size and all the audio controls placed on the earphones. The Shuffle also lets you browse your music by listening to a voice navigation system. Macworld's Jason Snell takes a look at this new $79 MP3 player.

Rugged Dell Laptop Takes a Beating

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Dell brought its new ruggedized laptop, the Latitude E6400 XFR, into our offices for a demo, and Senior Writer Darren Gladstone put it through a series of grueling tests. Watch as he grinds dirt into the keyboard and washes it off with a nozzle--before he drops it on the floor. And the laptop still runs! Available now for $4,299, this may be the laptop for you if you need a machine that meets military standards.

Inexpensive OLED Picture Frame

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The Digital Foci Pocket Album Deluxe OLED 2.8 will make your photos sparkle on its gorgeous OLED display. The small screen won't let you see your pictures from across the room, but the colors are rich and accurate, and the contrast is close to perfect. Editorial correspondent Lauren Barnard takes a look.

A Sneak Peek at The Sims 3 Game

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0800

With the worldwide release of The Sims 3 game only a few months away, Electronic Arts invited Senior Editor Darren Gladstone down to their offices for a preview of the game. The new version includes vastly improved graphics; revamped gameplay that focuses on character development and the pursuit of life goals; and the familiar community sharing of user-created game assets that proved so popular in previous iterations.

The Eee Top All-in-One Desktop

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Though you can get more power for your money if you go with a typical desktop PC, the Eee Top 1602's $600 price tag is reasonable in view of the PC's sleek, eye-catching design and user-friendly touch interface. So, if you're looking for a computer for the kitchen, for your kids, or perhaps for the technophobe in your life, the Eee Top may be just the ticket.

Solid Improvements for Amazon's Kindle 2

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Critical design changes have made the $360 Amazon Kindle 2 better looking, lighter, and the screen easier to read. However, it's still difficult to view your own documents on this e-book display device, and you'll need to shell out an extra $30 if you want a cover.

The Sexy iRiver Spinn MP3 Player

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The iRiver Spinn MP3 is an innovative music player with an eye-catching design and a unique navigation system. It has a gorgeous OLED screen, handles multiple media types, and features a built-in FM radio. But is it worth the price? PC World Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes it out for a "spinn."

How to Buy a GPS Device

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Portable GPS devices can do things that paper maps can't, such as tracking precise locations and providing spoken turn-by-turn directions that will get you from point A to point B, while showing the nearest coffee shops along the way. But navigating the GPS market can be tough. Consumer advocate Amber Bouman helps you find your way to the perfect GPS device.

Overclocked Mega Gaming PCs

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The Falcon NorthWest Mach V and Hardcore Computer's Reactor are two of the fastest and most interesting overclocked gaming desktops we've ever seen at PC World. The Reactor has a custom-designed case that's filled with non-conductive oil to cool the system, while the Mach V has a 3.2 GHz Core i7 processor that's overclocked to 3.8Ghz. Senior Associate Editor Danny Allen takes a look.

Inexpensive Hi-Def Video with the Flip MinoHD

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Pure Digital Technologies' Flip MinoHD minicamcorder brings high-definition video recording to your pocket. This tiny 720p-resolution device won't replace a standard HD camcorder, but it will do an admirable job of capturing spontaneous moments and allowing you to post them online. And for $230, it's one of the cheapest ways to enter the world of high-definion video.

How to Start Up Your PC Faster

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Does your PC start up too slowly? Check out our tips and quick fixes to help get your machine up and running faster.

BlackBerry Storm Touchscreen Underwhelms

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

There's been widespread anticipation for RIM's new touchscreen BlackBerry cellphone, the Storm. Unfortunately, while the features that make RIM's BlackBerrys great mostly are present, the Storm's touchscreen is "a failed experiment," according to Senior Editor Denny Arar, who put the Storm through its paces.

How to Set Up Multiple Monitors

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Adding a second monitor can seriously boost your productivity, especially if you work with large images or spreadsheets. It's also extremely simple. We'll show you how to do it in this step-by-step guide.

Sony's Walkman MP3 Player

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Carrying the torch of the Walkman brand name 30 years after the first cassette Walkman was introduced, the Sony Walkman NWZ-S738F is a high-quality MP3 player. The marquee feature is noise-cancellation, which showcases the player's excellent sound and equalizer.

iPhone 3G Torture Tests

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

In our second annual iPhone Stress Tests, Senior Editor Tim Moynihan applied a serious beating to the Apple iPhone 3G using keys, breakfast cereal, water, dish soap, and city sidewalks.

New nVidia Platform Promises to Speed Up Netbooks

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

By combining Intel's Atom processor and nVidia's GPU, the Ion platform can bring decent gaming and video performance to typically underpowered netbooks.

A Video Look at Getting High Online

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Dozens of mind-altering substances including herbs, seeds, powders, and extracts from plants are currently being sold online. And selling most of these substances breaks no federal drug laws. To learn more about these substances, PC World went shopping online and purchased nearly two dozen psychoactive products. Editor Ed Albro tells you what we found out.

Disaster! How to Salvage a Wet Gadget

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Ever dropped a cellphone in the sink, or your i-Pod in a swimming pool? PC World takes you through a few simple steps you can take to try to resuscitate soaked gadgets.

Disaster! How to Retrieve a Deleted File

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0800

If you've deleted a critical file for which you have no backup, there's a good chance it's recoverable even if it's no longer in the Windows Recycle Bin. Check out our tips for using Undelete tools, Vista's Shadow Copy feature, and more.

How to Buy a Digital Camera

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Megapixels aren't the only thing you should consider when shopping for a digital camera. PC World's Amber Bouman covers the essentials: resolution, optical zoom, exposure controls, white balance, and LCDs. And after you've checked out the video, visit out Digital Camera Buying Guide for more information.

How to Completely Erase a Hard Drive

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Sometimes simply deleting files isn't good enough. In this how-to video segment, PC World explains a number of simple techniques for permanently and securely removing sensitive data from old drives before recycling or disposing of them.

How to Buy a Flat-Screen TV

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Ready to buy a new flatscreen TV? PC World's Amber Bouman provides some straightforward tips to help you navigate the hurdles that you'll encounter while shopping. Should you go plasma or LCD? What sort of inputs do you need? What kind of video will best test different TVs? And when you're done watching this, read our comprehensive HDTV Buying Guide for more information.

How to Boost Your Gadget's Battery Life

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0800

Sick of running out of juice at the worst possible moment? Here's how to squeeze every last drop out of your gadgets' batteries and charge them up quickly and conveniently. In this video, we’ve got tips for digital cameras and cellphones. We also have another video that provides battery tips for MP3 players and iPods.

How to Buy a Laptop

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0800

If you've ever shopped for a laptop, you know that size is only one of the factors that you have to consider. You should also examine everything from performance and storage options to keyboard quality. Consumer-affairs correspondent Amber Bouman can help you find a laptop to suit your needs.

How to Spruce Up Your Home Videos

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0800

You've got a slew of footage of family gatherings or dance recitals. Edit those clips into something you can put in a DVD or show at the next reunion. Follow our quick tips to show you the way.

A Mini-DSLR Camera? Panasonic's Lumix DMC-G1

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0800

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is the first interchangeable lens camera with an electronic viewfinder, and has been promoted as a mini-SLR. The camera uses Micro Four Thirds lenses, but an adaptor ring is available that will allow existing Four Thirds lenses to be mounted to the camera's body. So how does it hold up to traditional SLRs? Executive Editor Alan Stafford takes a look.

Tips for Picking the Perfect iPhone and Plan

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800

Which model, which contract, and what else should you consider when thinking about buying an iPhone? We have all the answers in this video.

Robots Take Over Conference

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800

The Santa Clara Conference Center was recently taken over by robots at RoboDevelopment08, a showcase for new robots and robotic technologies. Senior editor Tim Moynihan took to the show floor and found a variety of devices ranging from a Rubik's Cube-solving robot, to one that can compete at Guitar Hero.

Virgin and YouTube Team Up For WiFi in the Sky

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800

Senior Editor Tim Moynihan boarded a Virgin America flight as part of an airborne party to test the company's new Gogo in-flight WiFi service. During the flight, Internet stars shot video and streamed it from 35,000 feet back to the YouTube Live event taking place in San Francisco.

Take a Tour of PC World's Test Center

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800

Test Center Director Jeff Kuta takes you on a guided tour of our Test Center, explaining PC World's processes and testing procedures. Check out our camera testing room, test benches, digital living room, and more!

Is That Ink Cartridge Really Empty?

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800

We've all gotten messages from our printers telling us to replace the ink cartridge, but it often seems like there's ink still inside. PC World decided to do some real lab testing on this issue and the results confirm what you may have suspected: Many manufacturer-branded and third-party vendor cartridges leave a startling amount of ink unused even after the printer reports the cartridge is empty. In fact, some inkjet printers force users to replace black ink cartridges when the cartridge is nearly half full. Mark Sullivan and Tony Leung talk you through our results and testing procedures. And after watching the video, check out our full results and stats.

A Tour of Windows 7 Beta

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Senior editor Denny Arar talks about interface changes, performance enhancements, and other features of Microsoft's new OS. For more information about Windows 7, we also have a slideshow and a full review.

Pantech's C610 Cell Phone Wants Your Vote!

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

PC World's Mark Sullivan makes an impassioned case for the Pantech C610 cell phone: Its glossy screen resists earmarks, it features a straight-talk design, and the phone's camera is suitable for taking photos of Russia from your front porch. Will it win your vote?

Internet Superstars: Where Are They Now?

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Love 'em or hate 'em, the Web has spawned more than its share of worldwide stars--and as fast as they go viral, these short-lived sensations fade away. We tracked down some of the Internet's biggest overnight sensations to see what they've been up to.

LucasArts Announces New Online Star Wars Game

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

One of the oldest rumors in the gaming world has finally been confirmed: LucasArts and Bioware are developing a massively multiplayer online Star Wars game. It's called "The Old Republic," and will let players choose from a variety of character types as they join the game. LucasArts invited Senior Editor Darren Gladstone to their new campus in the Presidio in San Francisco to talk about the new game.

Exploring Apple's New Touchpad

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

The redesigned touchpad is a key feature of Apple's newest MacBook. In keeping with the design philosophy that introduced the uni-body casing, the new pad acts as the laptop's button as well as its tracking and input device. We take a close look, and run through the new finger gestures that act as shortcuts.

The Google Android Phone Arrives

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

T-Mobile's G1, the first phone out with Google's Android operating system, is finally here. The G1 boasts excellent ergonomics and call quality, but it's held back by basic omissions, such as no standard headphone jack and a camera with few features. Staff Editor Ginny Mies takes a look.

Apple Revamps Its Entire Laptop Line

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Apple CEO Steve Jobs announces changes to MacBook Pro, MacBook and MacBook Air laptops at Apple's headquarters in California. Faster graphics with Nvidia chips, new aluminum cases, and improved trackpads are some of the features Apple will offer in the notebook line refresh. All will use a common core graphics chipset, the Nvidia GeForce 9400M. Some of the other changes, like the aluminum cases and upgraded touchpads, won't be featured on all models.

Slacker G2 Portable Internet Radio

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Slacker has released the G2 portable Internet radio player that works wirelessly with the Slacker.com Internet radio service. For $200, you can have 25 Slacker radio stations with you wherever you go. Senior Editor Roman Loyola takes the device out for a test drive.

Microsoft's Competitive Zune120 MP3 Player

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Both Microsoft and Apple recently released new hard drive-based MP3 players that have a capacity of 120GB and cost $250. The Zune120 has an innovative twist on music discovery, and it's a worthy alternative to the 120GB iPod Classic. Staff Writer Ginny Mies takes a look.

Trend-Setting HTC Touch Diamond

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

HTC's Touch Diamond smart phone is a snazzy new device that features an attractive UI: HTC's TouchFLO 3D interface. With a 3.2 megapixel camera, the Sprint music and TV services, and a variety of web browsers and other applications, this phone looks set to be a bit hit this fall. Assistant Editor Nick Mediati takes a look.

The Sonos Multi-Room Music System

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

The Sonos music system lets you set up and play zone-based music throughout your house from a single controller. If you purchase multiple "Zone Players" for individual rooms, it's possible to have different music playing throughout your house. Editor Ed Albro takes a look.

Rockband 2 Brings Down the House!

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Senior associate editor Danny Allen gets his hands on Rockband 2 and decides it's time to get the band back together again! Now available for the Xbox 360 (and soon for the PlayStation 3 and the Wii), the game includes wireless controllers, more songs and greater opportunity for customization. Check it out as the lads rock super hard!

At Mobile Focus, Cell Phones Galore!

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

At Mobile Focus, an event keyed to the CTIA Wireless IT and Entertainment Show, vendors had a slew of new cell phones on display. This fall, we should see phones with better cameras, more intuitive touchscreen interfaces, external audio speakers, and other more advanced features. Staff Editor Ginny Mies takes a look.

Showstoppers at CTIA Wireless

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

PC World's Amber Bouman attended the Showstoppers kickoff event for the CTIA Wireless IT & Entertainment show in San Francisco. Look at the variety of innovative products for wireless devices she saw there, including an 8GB microSDHC card, a portable power supply, mobile cell phone storefronts, and a GPS-based call-forwarding service.

Apple's Newest iPods

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Apple announced the latest version of its iPods in San Francisco, and we were lucky enough to get our hands on the new Nano and Touch. Take a look at their slimmer form-factors, greater storage, more competitive pricing, updated software, and other new features.

The Zen X-Fi: An Outstanding MP3 Player

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

With its excellent audio quality and wireless capabilities, the Creative Zen X-Fi MP3 player takes top spot in our MP3 player chart. Senior Editor Tim Moynihan takes a look and explains why the device is so good.

Navigon 2100 Max Road Test

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

The $299 Navigon 2100 max features a 4.3-inch widescreen LCD, and comes with a 1GB SD card that�s preloaded with maps and a fairly comprehensive points-of-interest database. We take it for a test drive and decide that it's a handy mid-range device.

Navigating Photos in 3D with Photosynth

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Photosynth.net takes your large collection of photos of a place or an object, analyzes them for similarities, and then reconstructs them in 3D space. You can navigate through a scene to see photos from multiple angles. Senior Associate Editor Danny Allen takes a look.