Microsoft Office 365 Video is a private YouTube for your business

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Microsoft Office 365 Video is a private YouTube for your business

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ARM's new tech promises 60% more juice for wearables

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div xmlns='http://bit.ly/16Db7GR'><img alt="ARM's new tech promises 60% more juice for wearables" src="http://ift.tt/1uACreN"/><br/><br /><p>ARM wants to help Internet of Things (IoT) devices last even longer using new Bluetooth technology that it claims delivers 60% more battery life.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>To make the new technology become a reality it has acquired two companies, Sunrise Micro Devices and Wicentric, that will form the crux of its new Cordio brand focused on developing low-power radio IP technology for battery-sapping devices such as wearables.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The Cordio brand name comes from Sunrise Micro Devices' line of low-power Cordio wireless products that includes a range of Bluetooth 4.0 CMOS radios. Wicentric, on the other hand, will provide a Bluetooth Smart software stack for the "sub-volt" radios being produced.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>ARM serious about IoT</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Companies that choose to use ARM's low-power radio IP technology can expect battery life to increase to a level that means devices can last up to 60% longer between charges. It can offer this thanks to the "sub-volt" operation that allows it to work below 1V and gently "sip" energy from the battery.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>ARM has been taking the IoT very seriously over the past six months after it announced a <a href="http://ift.tt/1JNADHb">new device platform</a> and free OS back in October that is built around open standards and brings security, protocols and standards together into one integrated platform. It backed that up with the <a href="http://ift.tt/1axnpme">purchase of Offspark</a> to bolster its IoT security offering and overall its an area that ARM looks set to be a big part of in the coming years.</p><br /><br/><br /><ul><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Check it out: <a href="http://ift.tt/1aqTPOK">Six things you should know about the Internet of Things</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /></ul><br /><br/><br /><img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1CThm1b" width="1"/><br clear='all'/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8XXx" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThm1f"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1CThm1h" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThoWW"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8XXG" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThm1l"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8YdX"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThoX1"/> </a> <img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1CThmhz" width="1"/><img alt="" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8Ye3" width="1"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />From <a href="http://ift.tt/yaGhNV">techradar</a> </div><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />from http://ift.tt/1cA3u6S<br/></div>

ARM's new tech promises 60% more juice for wearables

ARM wants to help Internet of Things (IoT) devices last even longer using new Bluetooth technology that it claims delivers 60% more battery ...

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Samsung Galaxy S6 sold out in some stores due to 'much higher' demand

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div xmlns='http://bit.ly/16Db7GR'><img alt="Samsung Galaxy S6 sold out in some stores due to 'much higher' demand" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy5qbR"/><br/><br /><p>The <a href="http://ift.tt/1zQe66z">Samsung Galaxy S6</a> is the latest and currently the greatest smartphone, according to our <a href="http://ift.tt/UQRgqW">best phones</a> list, but it's sold out in some stores worldwide.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>"Although there may be some difficulties for the short term, we will do our utmost to secure enough supply for our global consumers," Samsung told the wire service.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>US carrier Verizon, for example, has the April 10-released smartphone backordered until an "estimated" April 21. And that's just when it ships.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Samsung Galaxy S6 sales</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>The flagship smartphone and that phone's curvier cousin released more gusto and bigger changes than the underwhelming <a href="http://ift.tt/1fyLOq1">Samsung Galaxy S5</a> update.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>That's good news for Samsung, as buyers had plenty of other new electronics to consider on April 10, including the <a href="http://ift.tt/1G6VfLG">HTC One M9</a>, <a href="http://ift.tt/1seQ3O2">Apple Watch</a> and <a href="http://ift.tt/18wgMyC">new MacBook</a>.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>We will have more news on the Samsung Galaxy S6 sales as soon as the South Korean company makes the official figures available.</p><br /><br/><br /><ul><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>See the new <a href="http://ift.tt/1Hy5nNk">Star Wars Trailer 2</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /></ul><br /><br/><br /><img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8Vij" width="1"/><br clear='all'/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8Vio" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThlKP"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8Viq" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThoGs"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8Vis" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThm17"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8Vix"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThoWM"/> </a> <img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8Viz" width="1"/><img alt="" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1CThoWQ" width="1"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />From <a href="http://ift.tt/yaGhNV">techradar</a> </div><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />from http://ift.tt/1cA3t34<br/></div>

Samsung Galaxy S6 sold out in some stores due to 'much higher' demand

The Samsung Galaxy S6 is the latest and currently the greatest smartphone, according to our best phones list, but it's sold out in som...

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DxO Optics Pro 10.4 adds Nikon D7200 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 II support

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div xmlns='http://bit.ly/16Db7GR'><img alt="DxO Optics Pro 10.4 adds Nikon D7200 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 II support" src="http://ift.tt/1JNAF1Z"/><br/><br /><ul><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li><a href="http://ift.tt/1FTF44O">Best photo editing software</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li><a href="http://ift.tt/1F5j8mp">DxO Optics Pro 10 review</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /></ul><br /><br/><br /><p>DxO is an optics an image processing specialist and carries out laboratory tests on almost all new cameras and lenses. The results are fed back into its flagship image-editing tool DxO Optics Pro, which produces extremely high-quality raw conversions and at the same time corrects a whole series of common lens flaws, including distortion, chromatic aberration, vignetting (corner shading) and edge softness.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>It's closest rival is Adobe Camera Raw, which comes with Adobe Photoshop and is built into Adobe Lightroom. But while this and other programs now offer lens corrections too, DxO's results still set the standard – and it supports the widest range of camera and lens combinations.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>In version 10.4, DxO has also added a one-click 'Reset' button so that you can quickly return the image to its original state even after you've made a whole series of adjustments.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>These aren't the only additions. OpticsPro v10.4 also brings support for 466 new camera/lens combinations, including Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Samyang, Sigma, Tamron, Tokina, Voigtlander and Zeiss lenses for Canon, Fuji, Nikon and Olympus cameras. This includes the amazing Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM super-wideangle zoom.</p><br /><br/><br /><ul><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li><a href="http://ift.tt/1JNADar">Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM hands on</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /></ul><br /><br/><br /><p>The Nikon D7200 is Nikon's latest and best 'consumer' DSLR. It has a 24-megapixel APS-C sized sensor with no anti-aliasing filter, so that it delivers the highest possible resolution, even though there is a theoretical risk (though we've heard no reports of this) that you might see moiré effects in some fine textures or patterns.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II is Olympus's latest enthusiast-orientated compact system camera. It looks like a DSLR but uses a mirrorless design and an electronic viewfinder and has a smaller, lighter body. The E-M5 II has many innovative and exciting features, including a fully-articulating touch-screen display, powerful 5-axis image stabilization and a unique high-res 40MP mode which delivers stunning resolution with static subjects.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The DxO Optics Pro 10.4 update is free to any existing DxO Optics Pro 10 users, and to any users of DxO Optics Pro 9 who acquired their licence on or after September 1st 2014.</p><br /><br/><br /><ul><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li><a href="http://ift.tt/1HcpQqk">Nikon D7200 review</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li><a href="http://ift.tt/1Gu6JHW">Olympus OM-D E-M5 II review</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li><a href="http://ift.tt/1k2ohhX">Camera reviews</a> </li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /></ul><br /><br/><br /><img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1CThopR" width="1"/><br clear='all'/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1NS8XqE" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1CThopV"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1CThopX" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8XqG"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1CThlKx" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8XGU"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1CThlKA"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8XGX"/> </a> <img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1CThlKH" width="1"/><img alt="" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1NS8V20" width="1"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />From <a href="http://ift.tt/yaGhNV">techradar</a> </div><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />from http://bit.ly/1J8ogVm<br/></div>

DxO Optics Pro 10.4 adds Nikon D7200 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 II support

Best photo editing software DxO Optics Pro 10 review DxO is an optics an image processing specialist and carries out laboratory tests o...

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Review: Dell Chromebook 11 (2015)

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div xmlns='http://bit.ly/16Db7GR'><img alt="Review: Dell Chromebook 11 (2015)" src="http://ift.tt/1CSZNhQ"/><br/><br /><h3>Introduction and design</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Specifically built to withstand the abuses inherent to an education environment, this year's Dell Chromebook 11 features a solid build housed in a boring design. The Chromebook 11 ($249, £170, AU$320) looks more like a business laptop with its understated looks, but Dell claims its purpose-built design means that this notebook should survive drops, water spills, dirt and dust and most things that the harsh academic K-12 environment throws at it.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Direct competitors in this rugged space include Acer's 11-inch <a href="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qIl">Chromebook C740</a> ($249, £170, AU$320) and 15-inch <a href="http://ift.tt/1xelJbw">Chromebook C910</a> ($299, £200, AU$385). Dell's new <a href="http://ift.tt/1D0tOll">Latitude 11</a> ($299, £194, AU$386), which swaps Chrome OS for Windows in a similar form factor, is also an excellent rugged candidate for the education segment.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Those who don't need the rugged design and choose form over durability will find the <a href="http://ift.tt/1r1r8fx">Samsung Chromebook 2</a> ($249, £154, AU$282), <a href="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qbo">Toshiba Chromebook</a> ($279, £167, AU$309), and <a href="http://ift.tt/1A53yU2">Lenovo N20p</a> ($329, £210, AU$380) to be solid choices. The recently announced all-metal <a href="http://ift.tt/1bPTar3">Asus Flip</a> ($249, £167, AU$327) comes with a hybrid 360-degree hinge, allowing it to transform into various form factors, including use as a tablet.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Home users who may not have budget constraints can find more powerful systems elsewhere. The <a href="http://ift.tt/1aMTr9o">11-inch MacBook Air</a> ($899, £605, AU$1,155) is a compelling choice given its small footprint, solid aluminum construction, and portability. Apple bundles its free productivity software with OS X, and unlike Chrome OS, the Air can be used as a regular notebook without requiring a constant tether to the internet.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Design</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Unlike Asus, which is trying to reinvent the Chromebook category with its 360-degree hinge on the Flip, Dell is taking a more measured approach in creating a durable product that will survive daily student use and abuse.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qbs" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Because of the rugged construction, Dell's Chromebook 11 ends up slightly larger and heavier than the competition. Compared to Toshiba's Chromebook 2, a device with a larger 13.3-inch panel that measures 12.6 x 8.4 x 0.76 inches (32.0 x 21.3 x 1.9cm), the Chromebook 11 occupies almost the same footprint at 11.69 x 8.57 x 0.83 inches (29.7 x 21.8 x 2.1cm). Acer's C740 with a similar 11.6-inch display is slightly more compact than the Dell model at 11.3 x 8 x 0.79 inches (28.7 x 20.3 x 2.0cm).</p><br /><br/><br /><p>With a touchscreen, the 2.91-pound (1.32kg) Dell Chromebook 11 is heavier than the Acer C740's 2.87-pound (1.30kg) weight. Without a touchscreen, Dell's model is only 2.74 pounds (1.24kg). The Chromebook 11's weight is about on par with the 11-inch category, and is still light enough for students to carry around all day.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1CSZKCH" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>What sets the Dell Chromebook 11 apart from others on the market is its rugged design. Dell claims that its new Chromebook 11 passes US Military Standard testing for durability, dirt, dust, pressure, temperature, humidity, shock and vibration "so it can handle student life."</p><br /><br/><br /><p>To meet those durability claims, Dell cloaks its Chromebook 11 in a solid, matte black plastic case, a design choice that hides scratches, dirt and fingerprints well. A rubber bumper along the edges of the Chromebook 11 helps shield the notebook in case it's dropped.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Acer's education-centric Chromebook offerings come with reinforced hinge designs and strengthened corners, but lack the full rubber bumpers and the sealed keyboard and trackpad of the Dell Chromebook 11.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>On the Chromebook 11, the touchscreen is an optional upgrade, and it allows students another means to interact with the content on their Chromebook beyond the keyboard and trackpad.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Another feature that sets the Chromebook 11 apart from the competition is the reinforced barrel hinge. Not only does the barrel hinge allow the lid to be opened up to 180 degrees for better peer-to-peer collaboration, Dell says that it is also extremely sturdy. As students would often grab and carry the Chromebook by the lid, the barrel design helps to reduce stress and prevent the hinge from breaking.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The hinge also houses loud, forward-firing stereo speakers.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qbu" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>The non-backlit keyboard is surprisingly pleasant to use. With almost full-size keys - the keys are about 1/16 inches more narrow than the keys on a <a href="http://ift.tt/1ccbIK8">15-inch MacBook Pro</a> - typing is comfortable. The keys are extremely springy, but lack the key travel of a full-size laptop keyboard.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>There is a dedicated row of standard Chrome shortcut keys on top of the keyboard. The trackpad on the Chromebook 11 is extremely responsive, and I found cursor tracking to be accurate.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Rugged durability</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>In addition to the reinforced barrel hinge, the Chromebook 11 comes with a waterproof keyboard and trackpad - features that are typically found on more expensive business laptops, like the <a href="http://ift.tt/1xKekkj">Lenovo ThinkPad T450s</a> ($881, £591, AU$1,131).</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The waterproof keyboard means that the Chromebook 11 can be used in science labs and other hazardous education environments.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>For those opting for a touchscreen model, the Corning Gorilla Glass NBT screen helps to protect the display from scratches.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Specifications and performance</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>The Chromebook 11 is available in two color options. Dell is selling the black version at $249 (£170, AU$320), with the blue version commanding a $10 (£7, AU$13) premium. Both versions start with 2GB of RAM and a 720p HD non-touch display.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Here's how the unit sent to TechRadar for review was configured.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Spec sheet</h3><br /><br/><br /><ul><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Processor: 2.6GHz dual-core Intel Celeron Bay Trail-M N2840</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Graphics: Intel HD for Intel Celeron processors</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Memory: 4GB RAM (DDR3L, 1,600Mhz)</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Storage: 16GB SSD</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Screen: 11.6-inch HD, 1366 x 768 touchscreen</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Camera: 720p webcam</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Wireless: Bluetooth 4.0; 802.11ac (B/G/N), dual-band Wi-Fi</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Ports: HDMI 1.4, 1x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0, memory card reader, secondary memory card reader with lock, 3.5mm combo jack</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>Battery: Three-cell</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /><li>OS: Windows 8.1</li><br /><li style='list-style: none'><br/> </li><br /></ul><br /><br/><br /><p>If you can afford the $70 (£47, AU$90) premium, the touchscreen version of the Chromebook 11 starts at $329 (£210, AU$380) and provides a future-proof computing experience, especially if you're looking to hang on to the Chromebook for several years. Google is starting to <a href="http://ift.tt/1CSZKCJ">port Android apps</a> to Chrome OS, and a touchscreen makes that experience better than using a keyboard and trackpad.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qIr" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Additionally, a touchscreen can also help increase classroom collaboration. By laying the screen flat with the barrel hinge, students can tap on the touchscreen to share, collaborate, and interact with their content.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Performance</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>While the dual-core Celeron Bay Trail-M processor doesn't quite have the raw performance of the Intel Broadwell chip inside this year's <a href="http://ift.tt/1BRR1Bi">Google Chromebook Pixel</a> ($999, £799, AU$1,277), performance on the Dell Chromebook 11 is extremely smooth.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Given that most computing activity on a Chromebook will be done through the cloud rather than on the device - and that most Chromebook users won't be running heavy video editing programs anyways - "downgrading" to an Atom-based processor on the Dell model brings a lot of value for the performance.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qbw" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>In real-world use, performance of the Chromebook 11 is similar to the Toshiba Chromebook 2. Both models share the same processor, RAM and screen resolution, but the Toshiba model comes with a larger 13-inch display.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>I had about 15 tabs running in three different browser windows without any slow downs on the Chromebook 11. The Chromebook 11 is fast, responsive, and exhibited no delays.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The Intel Celeron chipset's performance seems better than the ARM CPU on the competing <a href="http://ift.tt/1CSZKCL">Acer Chromebook 13</a>, which runs on Nvidia's Tegra K1 processor, and exhibited slightly diminished performance when tested by TechRadar.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Multimedia</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Unfortunately, lacking the in-plane switching (IPS) screen technology of the Toshiba Chromebook 2's display, the Chromebook 11 has narrower viewing angles. The 180-degree hinge design mitigates this somewhat as it allows students to still have peer-to-peer collaboration when the screen is laid flat.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>In my testing, I found that even though the screen is adequately bright indoors with a 200-nit rating, I struggled with the display outdoors as the screen was too dim, even at full brightness.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy1t6U" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Surprisingly, audio produced by the stereo speakers came out loud and clear. In fact, at the loudest volume, audio produced by the Chromebook 11 could fill a small room.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>When watching YouTube review videos, instructional TED Talk videos, and streaming music on Pandora, I preferred to keep the volume between 50% and 80%. I found that there is slight distortion at volumes higher than 80%, and at that level the audio lacked fullness.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Battery life</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>With a stated battery life of 10 hours, the Chromebook delivers an all-day computing experience. For classroom use, this means that teachers won't need to recharge Chromebooks between classes or in the middle of lessons, and students won't need to find power outlets when using the Chromebook 11.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>In real-world use, with screen brightness set to around 60%, the Chromebook 11 lasted for just over eight hours on a single charge. In my testing, I surfed the web, managed my emails, watched a few marketing videos on YouTube, edited documents in Google Docs and Google Sheets, checked the news on Feedly and performed Google search in the Chrome browser.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1CSZQdk" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Eight hours is enough to get through a full school day, but students who carry their own Chromebook 11 likely will need to charge the Chromebook at some point during the day if they intend on using the netbook after-school for homework or other extracurricular functions.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Collaboration and communication</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Dell has created a useful way to use technology to foster classroom engagement. The Dell activity light is a tool that encourages participation and communication.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>For students who may be too timid to raise their hands or speak up in class, the activity light alerts instructors when a student wants to join a discussion or has a question. Students can tap or click the appropriate icon on the accompanying app on the Chromebook, and a corresponding light will appear on the lid to alert the instructor.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1Hy1qIw" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>A blue light means the student wants to participate. A red light indicates that a student has a question. And finally, a yellow light alerts the instructor that the student may need more time or may not have understood the materials presented.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Chromebook management</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>To manage the Chromebook 11, Dell offers an easy enterprise mobility management solution through its KACE program. School IT administrators can use the Dell KACE K1000 Systems Management Appliance as a comprehensive systems management solution to inventory Chromebooks.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Dell also sells a $1,899 (£1,280, AU$2,450) mobile computing cart that can store up to 30 devices at a single time. The cart, when used inside a classroom environment, allows teachers to securely lock up the Chromebooks for safe storage. Additionally, the cart is also a charging hub, allowing educators to quickly charge up to 30 Chromebook 11 laptops overnight.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Dell Chromebook 11 review" src="http://ift.tt/1CSZQdm" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>The value of running Chrome OS on the Chromebook 11 is that it requires very little maintenance. Unlike using Windows systems that require constant OS updates, antivirus software, and a powerful CPU and GPU to handle computing tasks, the Chromebook 11 is a physical device that connects to the cloud to do heavy lifting.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Students just need to sign into the Chromebook 11 with their Google ID and Google will keep Chrome OS constantly updated in the background. As users are mainly running web apps, not much computing power is needed as long as the school has a robust wireless connection.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Verdict</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>As one of the few Chromebooks specifically marketed for education, the Dell Chromebook 11 is an excellent option for students who need a durable computing experience that will last them for years. Solid construction, beautiful touchscreen display, and smooth performance make this year's Dell Chromebook 11 a winner.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>We liked</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>There is plenty to love with Dell's vision for Chrome computing in the classroom. The Chromebook 11's rugged design, durable construction, loud speakers, and excellent keyboard experience (for the price point) make this a solid choice for students.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Add in the optional touchscreen, and you'll likely be able to keep the Chromebook 11 future-proof for years to come.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>We disliked</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Even though the typing experience on the $249 (£170, AU$320) Chromebook 11 is excellent for the value, the keys are 1/16 inches smaller than keys on a MacBook Pro, and Dell could have made better use of the Chromebook 11's thickness by giving the keys more travel when pressed.</p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Final verdict</h3><br /><br/><br /><p>Don't let the understated aesthetics of the Chromebook 11 fool you. Dell packed in features that are typically reserved for more expensive business notebooks into its Chromebook 11 in an effort to create a durable product for the education market. In the Chromebook 11, you'll find a 180-degree reinforced hinge, rugged design, sealed keyboard and trackpad, and a great typing experience inside a portable package. In addition to using the Chromebook for school, students will appreciate the loud stereo speakers for multimedia and entertainment.</p><br /><br/><br /><img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1cA2xLZ" width="1"/><br clear='all'/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1FPm2Y9" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1cA2xM1"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1FPm2Yb" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1cA2xM3"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1FPm2r9" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1cA2waN"/> </a><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><a href="http://ift.tt/1cA2xM5"><img border="0" src="http://ift.tt/1FPm3er"/> </a> <img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1cA2xM7" width="1"/><img alt="" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1FPm3et" width="1"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />From <a href="http://ift.tt/yaGhNV">techradar</a> </div><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />from http://bit.ly/1yx1Uwx<br/></div>

Review: Dell Chromebook 11 (2015)

Introduction and design Specifically built to withstand the abuses inherent to an education environment, this year's Dell Chromebook 11 ...

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Updated: 9 Best Chromebooks 2015: top Chromebooks reviewed

<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div xmlns='http://bit.ly/16Db7GR'><img alt="Updated: 9 Best Chromebooks 2015: top Chromebooks reviewed" src="http://ift.tt/1twIvVu"/><br/><br /><h3>Best Chromebooks</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Updated:</strong> Google's Pixel has won a top spot in our best of Chromebooks list as one of the most powerful and fastest machines around.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Chromebooks are budget laptops that are both odd and brilliant, low-impact and potent.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Running Google's Chrome OS rather than Windows, they focus on what computing has been all about since the late '90s, the web browser.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>With low-impact processors and barely HD screens starting at 1366 x 768 resolution, most of these machines are also designed to last. Almost every Chromebook claims between 7 and 9 hours of battery life and comes within a few hours of that range, based on our testing.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Prices will start to climb above the budget range, as is the case with the new <a href="http://ift.tt/1E8d3jL">Chromebook Pixel</a> ($999, £670, AU$1,320), a laptop whose specs put it in direct competition with the <a href="http://ift.tt/1F4mODV">new MacBook</a>. Despite the expanding Chromebook market, there should always be something within your spending limit. Or, if you require something out of the ordinary, there are even <a href="http://ift.tt/1yJJRTv">ruggedized</a> versions of Chromebooks designed to withstand the abuse of children.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>At that point, it all comes down to size (and price), with Chromebooks available as small as 11.6 inches and as large as 14 inches. Always updated, here are our top-ranking Chromebook reviews:</p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" src="http://ift.tt/1Mqx7HX" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Chromebook Pixel (2015)</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>The end all, be all of Chromebooks.</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Outfitted with a Core i5 processor, USB 3.1 (and USB-C) ports, a high-resolution screen, and more RAM than it will ever need, the Chromebook pixel sets a high bar for Chrome OS machines for years to come.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Power and performance aside, the Pixel is one of the few Chromebooks that feels like it has itself completely figured out. The build quality of this machine is exquisite and the design has been engineered down to a science. What's more, its vivid screen - plus the impeccable keyboard and trackpad - all help to round out the Pixel as one excellent, premium package.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>It's impossible not to get hung up on the Pixel's high price. For the same amount of money, you could buy two or even three Chromebooks or a decent Windows laptop. So before you we suggest you consider all the much more affordable options out there before investing so much money into this machine.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1EWxVuT">Chromebook Pixel (2015)</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" src="http://ift.tt/18HmYUR" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Acer Chromebook 15</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>With a stunning screen, Acer's latest Chromebook is a winner</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="recommended" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/1Mqx7I1" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>The Acer Chromebook 15 is a breath of fresh air in the Chromebook space. It takes this series of laptops to two new places, as the first with a 15.6-inch screen and the first packing a Broadwell processor.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>First and foremost, it neither looks nor feels the least bit "budget." The laptop also comes well equipped and is fully capable machine for multi-tasking. What's more, it has a positively radiant screen that's perfect for long Netflix binges.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>We would easily pick this machine over any budget 15.6-inch Windows laptop. It's simply better built and comes at a better price to boot. Heck even 15-inch display on this laptop itself would even be worth the $349 or £249 (about AU$458) price of admission. No matter what though, the Acer Chromebook 15 is on the cutting edge and first sign of where Chrome OS devices will end up this year.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1xelJbw">Acer Chromebook 15 review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebook" src="http://ift.tt/1HcpRL0" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Dell Chromebook 11 (2015)</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Dell's updated Chromebook is a star in almost every regard</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Don't let the understated aesthetics of the new Dell Chromebook 11 (starting at $249, £170, AU$320) fool you. Dell packed in features that are typically reserved for more expensive business notebooks into its Chromebook 11 in an effort to create a durable product for the education market. In the Chromebook 11, you'll find a 180-degree reinforced hinge, rugged design, sealed keyboard and trackpad, and a great typing experience inside a portable package. In addition to using the Chromebook for school, students will appreciate the loud stereo speakers for multimedia and entertainment.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1JNABPR">Dell Chromebook 11 review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" src="http://ift.tt/1zM0l7r" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Lenovo N20p Chromebook</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>A versatile Chromebook experience for a reasonable price</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="recommended" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/UqvuQQ" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>This is one of the "sexier" Chromebooks available, showcasing Lenovo's eye for style. However, the best feature is the N20p's 300-degree hinge, which lets you flip the N20p's display backward all the way into stand mode (or 'tent' mode, whatever you prefer), which lends itself nicely to viewing movies or showing presentations.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>The touchscreen controls also work in a pinch for recreational activities such as watching shows on HBOGo viewing or Pinteresting. Still there's some difficulty when using it as a tablet, as Chrome isn't entirely tailored to touch as a largely browser-based operating system.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>It's not very tuned for business use, but the Lenovo N20p offers great versatility for a leisure device. Plus with two USB ports (one 3.0), and HDMI port and an SD card reader, this Chromebook delivers a great bang for its buck.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1ABp2L5">Lenovo N20p Chromebook review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" src="http://ift.tt/1tVEA5F" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Toshiba Chromebook 2</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>A gorgeous 1080p screen makes this Chromebook a real contender</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="recommended" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/UqvuQQ" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>For $329 (about £205, AU$382), the Toshiba Chromebook 2 is a gorgeous and affordable laptop that doesn't have many weaknesses. It comes with more RAM and a full HD 1080p screen, making it a step up from other models in this class, like the <a href="http://ift.tt/1r1r8fx">Samsung Chromebook 2</a> and <a href="http://ift.tt/1eqfiXh">Acer C720</a>.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>But potential buyers should note that the Toshiba Chromebook 2 moves the Chromebook category closer towards the territory of an affordable <a href="http://ift.tt/14ad0ox">Windows 8.1</a> laptop. So you might be overpaying if you're not purchasing this laptop specifically for the Google ecosystem.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>That being said, the 1080p screen is a huge bonus and the laptop speakers made by Skullcandy are booming. Add it all up and the Toshiba Chromebook 2 might be an ideal streaming system for everything from YouTube and Google Play to Hulu Plus and Netflix.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1pK10sm">Toshiba Chromebook 2 review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebook" src="http://ift.tt/1vndUOc" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Acer Chromebook 13</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>With incredible battery life, the Chromebook 13 is a winner</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="recommended" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/1Mqx7I1" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>Powered by Nvidia's ARM Cortex A15-based Tegra K1, this Chromebook packs a lot of punch in a tiny frame. Users will love its 13.3-inch 1080p resolution screen, as well as its portability. At 3.31 pounds, the Acer Chromebook 13 is a relatively light laptop.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>This Chromebook does have some minor issues: it doesn't multitask very well and the laptop itself only comes in one color. But for the price ($279 about £165, AU$300), you're likely to enjoy the simplicity and productivity, as you learn to overcome the design limitations.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1oCxHVO">Acer Chrome 13 review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" src="http://ift.tt/Hj6gh3" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>HP Chromebook 11</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>A Chromebook that's as cheap as it is excellent</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/14RlnZm" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>The HP Chromebook 11 (starting at $279, £179, AU$399) is smooth and usable. While Chrome OS is limited by definition, between us growing more comfortable in web apps and those apps growing in power – and Chrome OS maturing – we're bumping into those limitations far less often.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>This laptop is punchy enough to make the experience slick, cheap enough for anyone on a budget (or an impulse buy for the well-off), but something that still feels solid. It is a delight to own and use.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>Apple and the other premium manufacturers should look at this little gem of a computer and applaud what has been achieved. The Chromebook 11 shows that it's possible to create a product with a little bit of the magic and joy you get from an Apple laptop without charging four figures for it.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1c4rDxd">HP Chromebook 11 review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" src="http://ift.tt/1twIvVD" width="420"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><h3>Acer C720 Chromebook</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Offering decent features at a cheap price, this is a good budget option</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="Best Chromebooks" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/14RlnZm" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>In terms of power and endurance, you can't argue with the Acer C720 Chromebook (starting at $199, £199, AU$399). When you just want to get on the web quickly to answer emails or look something up, the C720 is ideal. For parents, it's also a perfect "homework machine," as long as you can get a printer hooked up.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>This is a true web appliance, a fine system for families. The Google account log-in gives each user a personalized interface, and just a few keystrokes completely wipe the system. That limits the risk substantially in sharing the system with others.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>One key criterion we use in evaluating a device is whether we'd actually want to use it every day. Even taking this laptop's flaws into account, it's something we definitely would want to use, for the price.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/1bMCM4e">Acer C720 Chromebook review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><div><img alt="Best Chromebook" src="http://ift.tt/1wPrziX" width="420"/><br/> </div><br /><br/><br /><h3>Asus Chromebook C300M</h3><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>A colourful Chromebook that balances price and performance</strong> </p><br /><br/><br /><p><img alt="recommended" class="lft" src="http://ift.tt/1Mqx7I1" width="100"/> </p><br /><br/><br /><p>The Asus C300M ($249, £219) is a perfectly balanced device for coffee shop warriors, commuting accountants and peripatetic teachers. With more than nine hours of battery life, this 13.3-inch device will keep you going all day long.</p><br /><br/><br /><p>It also performed admirably on all of our benchmarks, and it even features a solid set of ports for those of you needing multiple connections. Like most other Chromebooks, this laptop isn't winning any innovation awards, but it is a good-looking, steady performer at an incredible price.</p><br /><br/><br /><p><strong>Read:</strong> <a href="http://ift.tt/18HmZbm">Asus Chromebook C300M review</a> </p><br /><br/><br /><img border="0" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1FPm2Y4" width="1"/><br clear='all'/><br /><br/><br /><img alt="" height="1" src="http://ift.tt/1cA2waL" width="1"/><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />From <a href="http://ift.tt/yaGhNV">techradar</a> </div><br /><br/><br /><br/><br />from http://bit.ly/1J8ogET<br/></div>

Updated: 9 Best Chromebooks 2015: top Chromebooks reviewed

Best Chromebooks Updated: Google's Pixel has won a top spot in our best of Chromebooks list as one of the most powerful and fastest mac...

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