Bill Gates beaten into second place by Steve Jobs in CNBC rankings

CNBC has compiled its annual CNBC First 25 list, profiling the people deemed to have had the most impact on business and finance. Despite having left the helm of Microsoft some time ago, Bill Gates still ranks very highly, although he is beaten into second place by none other than Steve Jobs.

Described by CNBC as "Microsoft founder and philanthropist", Gates has a "rare acumen for software development and technological innovation" according to the outlet. The site points out that Gates managed to become a billionaire by the age of 31, is currently valued at around $76 billion, more recently setting up the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation "with the goal of addressing problems in public health and education".

But it is the late Steve Jobs to takes the top spot. "Apple's iVisionary" is singled out for "fashion[ing] the experience of using the one we now carry around". Jobs is heralded for putting "an indelible stamp on the wider culture".

Other familiar names from the world of tech that feature in the list include HTC's Cher Wang (22), eBay's Meg Whitman (18), Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg (8) and Sergey Brin‚ Larry Page and Eric Schmidt making a joint appearance for Google (4).

source:winbeta

Analog clock for your Windows Phone 8.1 Start screen

                                              
Windows Phone 8.1 Tiles can update every minute, instead of the previous 30 minutes in windows phone 8.0 , so you can use apps such as Clock Hub and TimeMe. Clocks are redundant on Windows Phone with Glance, Lock screen and one in the system bar. But we’re not here to preach and tell you how to design your Start layout, that’s what makes Windows Phonepersonal. Heck, I happen to like these apps because on a Lumia 1520 you sometimes need something to offset your design choices, and these things work well for that purpose.

Pick up Analog Clock Tile here in the Store for free. Windows Phone 8.1 only.

This app is very simple.

It does something that was not possible before.

If you pin tile to your start screen, it will show you an analog clock... that changes every minute.

That means the clock on a tile actually works.

More to come.
Optimization.
Wide tile support.

Motion Sensing Mechanical Keyboard by microsoft

A Motion Sensing Mechanical Keyboard

We present a new type of augmented mechanical keyboard, sensing rich and expressive motion gestures performed both on and directly above the device. A low-resolution matrix of infrared (IR) proximity sensors is interspersed with the keys of a regular mechanical keyboard. This results in coarse but high frame-rate motion data. We extend a machine learning algorithm, traditionally used for static classification only, to robustly support dynamic, temporal gestures. We propose the use of motion signatures a technique that utilizes pairs of motion history images and a random forest classifier to robustly recognize a large set of motion gestures. Our technique achieves a mean per-frame classification accuracy of 75:6% in leave–one–subject–out and 89:9% in half-test/half-training cross-validation. We detail hardware and gesture recognition algorithm, provide accuracy results, and demonstrate a large set of gestures designed to be performed with the device. We conclude with qualitative feedback from users, discussion of limitations and areas for future work.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3dUeGNIX4M&feature=youtu.be

Favourite 5 new windows phone apps of the week by NOKIA

Nokia have listed top five favourite apps this week Check it out here 

Album Releases

What is it: A music notification service

Why we love it: Again, this is updated rather than new, but we haven’t featured it before and we think it’s a fantastic addition to your app portfolio. Album Releases, powered by Xbox Music, sends you notifications when your favourite artists release new work. It uses the music in your phone’s Collection as a guide, and you can also follow bands through the app’s search screen. One of the new features in the latest update is the ability to unfollow artists in your Collection – particularly handy if you’ve got a large number of artists downloaded to your phone but aren’t interested in what they’re all up to these days.

Who it’s perfect for: music fans

Callcorder

What is it: a phone call-recording app

Why we love it: Creepy or ingenious – it’s up to you to decide! This app allows you to record all your phone calls, and then email, transfer or upload the resulting mp3 file to OneDrive. As the developer suggests, this would be pretty handy for phone interviews. It’s only available for US customers at the moment, but that’s set to change in the future.

Who it’s perfect for: record-keepers and spies…

ebay

What is it: The official eBay app for WP8

Why we love it: This isn’t a new release, as many of you will know, but the brand-new update reveals an overhaul of the WP8 version of everyone’s favourite auction site. The old dark layout has been revamped: it’s now bright and white. Searching and filtering have been improved enormously (it’s now closer to the web-version), as has the notification function – though we haven’t bought anything to check this out, so we’ll have to take their word for it. Along with a bunch of other refinements, these all make the app considerably more useful and easy to use: get it, now!

Who it’s perfect for: bargain-hunters

Flashlight

What is it: A torch app for your WP8 phone

Why we love it: We know there are tons of similar apps in the store, but we like this new release: as it says in the blurb in the Store, it’s very minimalist, which means there’s no messing about – there no ads and only two buttons on display: one/off and a link to the Store’s app page to leave a review. You can even hide that latter option. Clean, then, and free, and useful: perfect!

Who it’s perfect for: gadget fans

Fat Joe Run

What is it: an infinite running game

Why we love it: Our hero, Joe, has piled on the pounds thanks to a dodgy diet and no exercise, and he’s pretty downbeat about the situation: now we’ve got to whip him into shape! It’s a pretty basic infinite runner, at heart: Joe runs, clocking up a tally of calories burned and accumulating coins which you can use to buy costumes for him and more. Because he’s pounding the city streets, you’ve got to watch out for cars and pavement obstacles like boxes and fences – dodge and leap your way to fitness! It’s a fun twist on a common genre and not all that easy, either. Let us know how you and Joe get along!

Who it’s perfect for: gamers of all ages

How to bring back the old music app from new windows 8.1 xbox muxic app ?

                                                     

It’s an open secret that the old Xbox Music hub is still actually buried in the Windows Phone 8.1 OS, with the new version overriding it. Users have been bringing it back via an NFC trick, which works but it’s far from convenient. Now, a developer has taken the extra step and released a free app that lets you pin a direct link to the old version on your Start screen.

The app is named Music Hub Tile, and when initially launched it will let you pin either the green Music Tile or a transparent one to your Start screen. The transparent one though will cost you 99 cents via an in-app purchase, whereas the green is free.

Once the newly pinned Tile is opened, the app redirects you to the old and familiar Xbox Music hub of 8.0, where everything works as expected. However, touching the dropdown player controls will send you off to the new app, mostly because 8.1 is coded for redirecting you to the new, separated app.
                                                      

The Xbox Music app was just updated on Friday with numerous bug fixes and improvements, and updates are expected every two weeks to improve things frequently based off of your suggestions. In that sense, we’re not sure how useful using the old version of Xbox Music will be, given three or four more updates to the new one. Regardless, the choice is yours and at least for now, the green version is free, so there’s no loss.

Pick up Music Hub Tile here in the Store. Let us know in comments if you’re going back to the old, or sticking with the new one (and whether Friday’s update changed your mind)!

Top five free, paid, and trending Windows Phone apps as of April 27th

The Windows Phone Store is home to over 250,000 apps worldwide. Let's take a look at the Windows Phone Store and see which apps are at the top of the charts when it comes to the free, paid, and trending categories. You might even discover your new favorite app!

Currently in the Windows Phone Store, the top-five free apps are Nokia Creative Studio, Video, Facebook, OneDrive, and Weather. The top-five paid apps are Windows Phone Explorer, Metrotube, WP Themes, WPCentral, and Flashlight+. The top-five best rated apps are Flixster, Camera360, Sleep, Jalali Calendar, and Preview for Developers. The top-five trending apps are Transparency Tile, Music+, Aerize Explorer, Tilesparency, and Windows Phone Explorer.

                                        

We're getting quite a few new "transparency" apps that aim to make your tiles transparent on Windows Phone 8.1. This is all thanks to Windows Phone 8.1's ability to set a Start Screen background. Having a transparent tile allows you to see your background. It also comes as no surprise to see Preview for Developers make it to the top-five best rated list, as this app allows you to install the Windows Phone 8.1 Developer Preview.

Witch Potion (free) - "Get ready to make potions! Exclusively on Windows Phone 8! A black magic surrounded the realm and is hurting the adorable creatures! Solve the puzzles, make potions and help them!" the app description reads.

The game requires you to solve 120 challenging puzzles to help 8 different creatures. Each chapter of the game introduces new challenges and new game elements. The goal of the game is to minimize the number of moves you take to maximize your score.

"Find yourself being challenged in ever-changing MATCH-2 puzzle game – Witch Potion! Combine blood drops, rotten eggs, horse shoes and more to make potions to help poor creatures including Yeti, Ogre, Mermaid, Pegasus and many more! Be a part of a fabulous adventure!" the app description adds.

Sky Blaze (free) - "Dawnbreak Studios presents a fast paced arcade game with graphics never seen before on a mobile screen! Smash rockets to create stunning firework explosions across the sky," the app description reads.

Sky Blaze features a beautiful visual style never seen before and a unique modern soundtrack. Put on your headphones and get ready to dance! Swipe green rockets while avoiding the red ones. Blue rockets builds combos to maximize your high score and yellow ones starts small minigames. Compete with your friends in the online scoreboard or locally on your phone.

The game features two modes, and more game modes can be unlocked via in-app purchase. The app developer claims that this is not mandatory and that payments should be fair. Therefore, the in-app purchase is based on how generous you feel and not based on a fixed price.

Windows Phone Explorer ($1.99) - This app allows you to explore your files on your Windows Phone 8.1 device. The functionality is basic and features support for OneDrive. The functionality is very basic as it allows you to open files, save file to your local phone storage, delete files, and browse files and folders. 

No word if new features will be added soon, but this app seems to have quite a large following already with high ratings in the Windows Phone Store. This app is also the top-paid app, at the time of this post.

Surv (free) - "Built specifically for the windows phone, Surv allows you to create and participate in quick polls on things that interest you. You can ask fun “What would you rather” questions, get the community’s feedback on something you are trying to decide on, or get the public opinion on a specific topic. You can also send a private poll to a friend to get their opinion," the app description reads.

This social app works in two ways. First, you can ask a question, tag your question in a category, and add up to three choices. You can even attach an image via your camera roll or by taking a new photo. Second, you can choose to post the poll publicly, or privately with your friends.

WinGym (free) - This app is a fully featured fitness app that allows you to learn over 130 different exercises, along with the ability to manage sets for the exercises in routine. Here are the key features of this app:

• You can add custom exercises (with photos) and use them in your routines.
• More than 130 exercises, with photos and descriptions (more exercises will be added soon).
• We have exercises for girls.
• You can manage sets for the exercises in routine.
• We have additional information about gym trainings, warm-up, diet, sport diet and etc.
• Notification for routines. You will never forget about your training!
• Detailed statistics for the body params (biceps sizes, waist, weight and etc).
• Graphical representations for your progress. 

This app is free for a limited time, as it has just made its debut in English markets. With this app, you can create your own exercises and use them in your training routine. You can take photos, write descriptions for you custom exercises. In a future version of this app, the developer plans on integrating the ability to share exercises with others. 

Stay tuned for next week's Windows Phone Store app highlights. Do you have any Windows Phone apps to share? , comment below.

Why Android should be left for Windows Phone 8.1 ?

I'm never afraid to try something new, particularly when it comes to software. I've tried out just about every mobile operating system that's been available since the mid-90s, having worked my way through a terrifying number of handsets over the years. There was even a time when I was found to be wielding a BlackBerry, but the less said about that period the better! Now, while I am a fan of Microsoft, my primary phone is a Samsung Galaxy S4 running Android. My Windows Phone -- a Nokia Lumia 928 -- has lain largely unused for some time, picked up only occasionally to try out an app.

But now there is Windows Phone 8.1 to consider. Whether looked at as a Windows Phone user or an outsider, it's clear that there have been a huge number of changes, and just about all of them seem to be for the better. It's also clear that some of the changes have been borrowed from -- or at least inspired by -- a combination of iOS and Android. This is no bad thing; every operating system can learn from the competition, although obviously we want to avoid slipping towards a world of complete homogeneity.

Like iOS, Android is starting to stagnate. Progress is still being made, but the pace is starting to slow rapidly. I'm neither fickle nor fanboy, but I'm thinking about moving on. Windows Phone seems to be the operating system which is developing the fastest at the moment. Should I jump in with both feet and switch my allegiances, or should I hold out a little longer?

I love the tweakability of Android. Is this something I'll learn not to miss in Window Phone? If you have made the jump from Android to Windows Phone, did it feel as though you were making compromises, or was it a step forward for you?

I want to hear it from the devotees and the not-quite-decided: why should I leave Android for Windows Phone? I'm a demanding user -- what makes it great? Really great.

What are your favorite features and options? In what ways do you find Windows Phone 8.1 to be superior to the competition? Maybe Windows Phone 8.1 is the only mobile operating system you've used -- would you (or could you) ever be tempted into trying out the competition?

Sell it to me! What is so great about Windows Phone 8.1? What makes it unique? Of course, one's choice of OS is a very personal thing, but I'm still interested to hear your pitches. Go!

Microsoft to use Nokia brand name for Lumia, Asha, and Nokia X lineup

Source Twitter : Nokia's Devices and Services Division is a part of Microsoft now. The acquisition is complete, but if you're thinking Microsoft will abandon the Nokia brand so early, you're mistaken. According to a new tweet from the official Nokia Twitter handle, Microsoft will continue to use the Nokia brand name for Asha, Lumia, and Nokia X handsets. For those who don't remember, Microsoft gets to use the Nokia brand name for the next 10 years as a part of the acquisition deal.

When asked on Twitter, Nokia mentioned, "We’ll continue with Nokia-branded products, as Microsoft has licensed the Nokia brand for some time #MoreColorful." Nokia has made a solid footprint in the smartphone arena as the most popular Windows Phone handset maker, and it wouldn't be a wise decision to abandon the name so early in my opinion. The Nokia name is here to stay, at least for the next few years.

                                                                                                                        — Nokia

Windows Phone 8.1 in the hands of developers,now waiting for 8.1.1.... here are some 8.1.1 rumors

Windows Phone 8.1 is now in the hands of developers, and those enthusiasts who chose to install it. But it seems folks are already looking forward, saying “what’s next?”

That, apparently may be  Windows Phone8.1.1 , and the first rumors about it, and what it will bring, have appeared on Reddit, thanks to a poster going by the handle “Microsoftly”. He has posted a lengthy list of the features that will be packed into this supposed update, and there are quite a number of them, including Cortana non-beta, features and music controls in the Action Center, and much more. In fact, here is the lengthy list of unconfirmed rumors for the update after Windows Phone 8.1:

·         Features in Action Center

·         Instagram application to have DIRECT MESSAGING and better video uploading capabilities and camera fixes UI for camera to be tweaked with enhanced features from Nokia Camera application

·         KIK Messenger to be finished in late June, overhauled design and html 5 support Skype with completely new design.

·         Messages in bubbles and chat heads similar to Facebook messenger?

·         Facebook messenger to have improved notifications, polished design and new set of fonts along with video chat, calling and improved emoji store

·         OneNote to have many new features as Word.

·         A possible merger Ability to set WordFlow's guide line to accent invisible

·         Give users choice to have invisible tiles on individual applications

·         New lock screen gestures input and other unique, disclosed password input technique options

·         Calculator upgrades to version 2 with more scientific features

·         Month view drastically changed in design in calendar application

·         Alarm application to feature a stopwatch, timer and splits

·         Interactive live tiles

·         Lock screen applications will be built inside core system

·         Music controls in Action Center

·         More detailed notifications in Action Center

·         Dividing line in Action Center

·         Application Games to be deleted and replaced with Xbox One application dealing with avatar, messages, remote and other features.

·         Name to be decided YouTube application to be built completely with html 5 coding as requested by Google

·         Cortana to head out of beta

·         Internet Explorer applications

·         Give uses the choice to delete Podcasts application

·         New voice memo application Backgrounds (Accent Colour 2)

·         Store with wallpapers from featured applications

·         Ability to favorite applications in store to better suggestions

·         Unit converting applications

·         Change colour of keyboard to black, white, gray, accent colour without changing background color

·         Keep word suggestion bar hidden until something is typed

·         Tiles to update as frequently as 30 seconds if feature is turned on by user or developer

·         Music volume controls to be centered

·         OneNote having abilities to use art tools

·         Facebook application from official company

·         Email/Outlook application to follow same design as computer base

·         Photos will have description such as name, place and time

That is quite an ambitious list, but remember that it is a huge rumor and in no way (that we know of) did it come from Microsoft itself. Let us know what you think of this feature set and what you think is missing in comments below.

Guinness World Record certificate for fastest texting (made by windows phone)

Amazing windows phone keyboard

The fastest text message written on a touch screen mobile phone whilst blindfolded is 25.90 seconds and was achieved by Mark Encarnación (USA) outside the Microsoft Studios in Redmond, Washington, USA on 24 April 2013. Now it was taken by a peter lee on windows phone :)

 

                           ♥♥Feeling proud as a windows phone user♥♥ 

How to get back to windows phone 8 from windows phone 8.1 developer preview ?

Steps to get back to windows phone 8 from windows phone 8.1 developer preview.

Source (NOKIA LUMIA USERS COMMUNITY)

Many people are facing problems with windows phone 8.1 developer preview, so to get back to official windows phone 8 here are some steps:

1. First download the Software recovery tool and install it on your computer.

Link - http://www.mediafire.com/download/sgddzq5ltk7y4a3/NokiaCareSuiteForStore-5.0.60.1409_WindowsMania.exe

2. Launch the tool and connect your windows phone.

3. Click to restore the software. Right now, you do not even need to select any firmware since Nokia has not started pushing WP8.1

4. The software recovery tool will now download and install the firmware on your phone.

5. Your windows phone will now reboot after it is done.

Wait for few minuites it will be done (max 10min)

Microsoft Now Officially Owns Nokia's Phone Business

                                                    

                             

NEW DELHI: Nokia and Microsoft on Monday announced that they would close their $7.2 billion deal on April 25. The announcement came around a day after the leak of a letter Nokia had sent to its suppliers, telling them that its phone division, which Microsoft had bought for $7.2 billion, would be now known as Microsoft Mobile. 

"Nokia expects the transaction whereby the company will sell substantially all of its Devices & Services business to Microsoft to close on April 25, 2014. The transaction is now subject only to certain customary closing conditions. The transaction was originally announced on September 3, 2013," said Nokia. 

Microsoft added that the deal now also included Nokia's online assets. "Our two companies have agreed that Microsoft will manage the nokia.com domain and social media sites for the benefit of both companies and our customers for up to a year," said Brad Smith, executive vice president (legal & corporate affairs) at Microsoft. 

Earlier, in a leaked letter to its suppliers, Nokia had noted that "upon the close of the transaction between Microsoft and Nokia, the name of Nokia Corporation/Nokia Oyj will change to Microsoft Mobile Oy". 

However, for the now the change in the name of the corporation may not lead to any branding changes in the market. As part of its deal with the Finnish company, Microsoft has bought rights to Nokia brand for 10 years. A Microsoft spokesperson clarified the deal allowed it to use Nokia brand for all categories of phones, including Lumia and Asha phones. 

But Microsoft refused to confirm whether it would use Nokia brand name in all the phones it would sell after the closure of the deal or not. 

Manasi Yadav, senior market analyst at IDC, said that if Microsoft changed the name, it might affect the sale of Lumia and Asha phones, at least temporarily, in markets like India. 

                                 

"In a country like India, where Nokia has a very strong brand image, changing of name is likely to affect the sale of Lumia or Asha phones. While both Lumia and Asha range of phones have distinct identity, people associate them with Nokia. The box in which these phones are sold has Nokia printed on it. A change in brand name may confuse people," said Manasi. 

"Microsoft will have to do some marketing and awareness campaign to tell people that now Nokia will be known as Microsoft Mobile. Or people will find it unfamiliar. The good news is that it is definitely doable. Lenovo successfully managed the transition with IBM Thinkpad laptops so there is no reason why Microsoft could not do the same," she added