Final thoughts on Windows 8: A design disaster

A week ago, Microsoft delivered the Windows 8 Release Preview, the final pre-release of the platform before the forthcoming operating system hits the release-to-manufacturing stage. OEMs get their hands on the final code at this stage, followed by Windows 8’s general availability where it’s available to us all.

I’ve been following Windows 8 closely over the past few months, spending a lot of time not only with the official releases but also with a number of leaked builds, and I’ve had the chance to install the operating system on a variety of hardware platforms, both old and new. However, since my primary working platform is a desktop system, this is where I’ve had the chance to spend the most time with Microsoft’s new operating system.

Top 5 New iPad Warranty and Insurance Options Compared

If you have no warranty on your iPad, you may end up paying a third-party to replace your screen or buying a new iPad at full price.

Do I Need an iPad Warranty?

If you are purchasing the $499 iPad it may not make sense to buy a $100 warranty, as you’ve spent 20% of your purchase price. However if you opt for a 4G LTE 32Gb or 64GB iPad 3rd Generation model, a $100 warranty is only 12% of your purchase price.

If you plan to use your new iPad at home, in bed and will keep it in a highly protective case, you may not need a warranty as much as a frequent traveler or student.

Warranty vs. Insurance

It is important to know what each warranty or insurance option covers. Typically a warranty will not cover loss or theft, while insurance options can include coverage for lost or stolen iPads. Not every iPad insurance or warranty option has the same coverage, so keep that in mind before you buy.

AppleCare+  - $99

For $99 you can add AppleCare+ to your new iPad purchase. This enhanced Apple warranty includes hardware failures, battery failures and accidental damage for two years. You also get extended support over the phone and in your local store.

If you drop your iPad or it gets wet, you will need to pay a $49 processing fee to get it replaced, and the plan covers 2 accidental damage claims. You must buy AppleCare+ within 30 days of purchasing your new iPad.

AppleCare+ does not cover lost or stolen iPads, so if you drop your iPad int he bottom of a lake, you better dive in after it.

 

Miley Cyrus Engaged To Liam Hemsworth

Miley Cyrus has announced her engagement to her beau Liam Hemsworth.

The 19-year-old former Disney star confirmed the happy news to People.com, saying: "I'm so happy to be engaged and look forward to a life of happiness with Liam."

Apple seeks Samsung Galaxy S3 temporary sales ban in US

Samsung says it still expects to launch the Galaxy S3 in the US on 21 July

Apple seeks Samsung Galaxy S3 temporary sales ban in US

Google deploying planes over cities for 3D maps

This image released by Google shows a three-dimensional view of the Cliff House in San Francisco on Google Earth

SAN FRANCISCO: Google Inc is deploying a fleet of small, camera-equipped airplanes above several cities, the Internet search company’s latest step in its ambitious and sometimes controversial plan to create a digital map of the world.    

Jailbreak Only: MobileTerminal Updated - Now Finally Compatible With iOS 5

iPhone 4S White

After being out-of-action for several months now, the popular jailbreak tweak “MobileTerminal” has recently received an update, and is now compatible with iOS 5-powered jailbroken iDevices.

10 really useful iPad tips and tricks

1. Create folders

iOS now supports folders. To create a folder all you need to do is tap and hold on an app until they all start to jiggle, then drag the app over another icon and release.

Your iPad will create a folder with both the apps in. The folder will be named according to the category of the apps it contains, but you can rename it as you like.

2. Access all running apps

Double-clicking the Home button shows you all the apps that are running on your iPad in a bar along the bottom of the screen. To switch to a running app just tap on it here in this bar. Just swipe the screen downwards to remove this bar.