Android market is growing tremendously. Almost in each corner of the world there are Android devices. They are fast, fashionable and intuitive. Android phones have everything for your entertainment: games, apps, chat, video storage, social networks and much more. However, if you are offline, let’s say on vacation, you need to download apps and videos in advance to enjoy them on the go. Plus, your videos should be transferred to Android video format for successful Android upload. To get help with it, search for a video downloader or look at the overview of best online video converters for Android gadgets:

Free YouTube Converter

Free YouTube Converter downloads and converts videos for Android. The program is easy to use. Launch the program and select the “Convert to Android” preset in the upper right corner.

Then go to YouTube, copy a video URL and click “Paste” button in YouTube Converter. The freeware automatically grabs video and prepares it in Android-compatible format. One more good feature of this tool is batch video download mode. You paste a list of video links and rip them all off the Internet. But remember – your Internet connection speed may decrease if you extract a dozen of high-load movies simultaneously.

Media Converter

Media Converter is free online video converter that turns online videos into mpeg4 format. MP4 (MPEG-4 file extension) is Android-friendly video format. Thus, you need to convert videos to mp4 file type.

The web app is intuitive and fast. Copy YouTube link, paste it in web form. After that, you see “Go to the next step” link which transfers you to conversion settings page. Adjust settings, proceed to download and enjoy YouTube videos on your Android phone.

What I like about Media Converter is Mozilla Firefox add-on called “Media Converter”. It lets you download and convert videos directly via your browser.

Zamzar

Zamzar is another web video tool. It has inbuilt download options. Plus, Zamzar converts videos to Android mp4 video format.

Open “Download Videos” Tab, paste YouTube link, select video file format, enter your email and get your video for Android to your email account. Though the app is simple, it requires your email address.

Author Bio

Victoria Kushner is a blogger and social media specialist. She covers top multimedia tools. Victoria has recently written about HTML5 Video Converter.

3 Best Online Tools to Download & Convert YouTube Videos to an Android Compatible Format [Guide]

If you are playing around with a beta build of Windows 8 and kind of frustrated by the Microsoft’s habit of disabling some experimental features you will love a free tool called BluePoison. BluePoison is very nice tool that supports a variety of convenient features among the most useful is the ability to enable the disabled Windows 8 features such as Application folder, Immersive Start Menu and so on. BluePoison can also be used to download the latest builds of Windows 8 and Office 15.

Here are the key features of the BluePoison as provided by the developers:

• Download the latest build of Windows 8 and Office 15, and consult the installation guides.
• Refer to the build-list, constantly updated, the development of Windows 8 [this function will be reintroduced in the next version].
• Unlock the Applications folder (BluePoison 1.x and 2.x).
• Disable the Start Menu Immersive (BluePoison 1.x and 2.x).
• Metro also activate the snap on screens smaller than those supported (BluePoison 2.x).
• Unlock the Ribbon interface (UI BluePoison 1.x).
• Unlock the Modern Task Manager (1.x BluePoison).
• Unlock the Modern Reader (BluePoison 1.x).
• Unlock the theme Auto Color (BluePoison 1.x).
• Webcam unlock the application (BluePoison 1.x).
• Unlock the Immersive Browser (BluePoison 1.x).
• Unlock Pattern Logon (BluePoison 1.x).
• Unlock the Logon Metro (BluePoison 1.x).
• Start Moorea in Office 15 (BluePoison 1.x and 2.x).

Latest version of the BluePoison can be downloaded from the official website.

Enable Disabled Windows 8 Features Using BluePoison

But in the mean time while you wait for the official update for your device, there is no harm in checking out and enjoying the Android Ice Cream Transformation Pack for Windows 7! This transformation is released by hameddanger – a Deviant art user and is available for download for free. As one can expect from its name its heavily inspired by the ICS and includes a custom boot screen, changes to the Start Menu that appears on the top-left on the screen instead of bottom-left as default. There are also new icons inspired by the latest Google OS and host of other enhancements to give you the Android look&feel as much as possible on a Windows 7 system.

After download just install and restart your system once to get changes applied. Android Ice Cream Sandwich Transformation Pack is available for both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.

Download Android Skin Pack 2.0 (x86)

Download Android Skin Pack 2.0 (x64)

Also, have a look at our recent articles: Ice Cream Sandwich (Android 4.0) Review of Best New Features and as well as: Some Impressive Ice Cream Sandwich (Android 4.0) Features That You Don’t Know! to get hang of what the recent ICS craze is all about!

Download Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich Transformation Pack For Windows 7

Low Quality Flash is such an extension that approaches the problem of low performance of flash from a different perspective. Basically it modifies the JavaScript on HTML pages to alter OBJECT and EMBED tags on a page setting Adobe Flash objects to "Low Quality." This can vastly improve performance on lower-powered platforms like older computers, cheap netbooks, and cellphones using Firefox Mobile. Latest version of the Low Quality Flash even includes an option to turn-on the medium quality flash in contrast to the low quality flash which is a compromise but might be suitable for some users which consider the contents rendered in low quality to be really not acceptable but medium quality might be ok for them as a good compromise. This is because changing the quality of the flash as done by this Firefox extension can improve the performance (or frame rate) of the flash content but it will also reduce the rendering quality of this content, and it might be very noticeable in some cases depending on the content that a user is viewing. In any case, this is an attractive option for the low-end PC users or for those users using flash in Firefox Mobile version.

Download Low Quality Flash Extension for Firefox

[via]

Improve Flash Performance & Frame Rate in Firefox Using Low Quality Flash Extension

Mozilla has recently released the Firefox 8.0 final version and the number of changes as compared to the previous version are minimal at best. One of highly demanded features that Firefox users have been asking for a long time is the official support for 64-bit builds of the Firefox. Unfortunately, we didn’t get it yet – not even with the recent release of the Firefox 8.0. Firefox 9.0 is not expected to get this 64-bit support either. It seems from some reports that Firefox 10 might be the release when Mozilla will finally add the support for 64-bit builds. Situation is quite frustrating considering that how many users these days are using the 64-bit builds of Windows 7 (or Vista).

Luckily for us, all the Windows users on the 64-bit OS there are some third-parties that are releasing the custom compiled and highly optimized builds of the Firefox for the 64-bit Windows. Pale Moon is one such project that is currently releasing these optimized custom builds of the Firefox which are available for not only 32-bit but also 64-bit. Both types of builds are optimized for speed, efficiency but keep in mind there are some small set of features that are disabled to gain the maximum performance. There are related to accessibility and parental controls and as such not a big issue for the most users. But just a thing to keep in mind. Currently latest Pale Moon builds are only available for Firefox 7 but we can expect that Firefox 8 builds will also be added soon. In any case, as I said in the start the number of new features in Firefox 8 is underwhelming at best.

Highly optimized for modern processors
100% Firefox sourced: As safe as the browser that has seen years of development.
Uses slightly less memory because of disabled redundant and optional code
Significant speed increases for page drawing and script processing
Stability: experience fewer browser crashes.
Support for SVG and Canvas, and downloadable fonts including WOFF
Support for HTML5 and WebGL (v4+)
Support for Firefox extensions (add-ons), themes and personas
Support for OOPP (Out-of-process plugin execution)
Able to use existing Firefox profiles, bookmarks and settings with this migration tool

Head to the Pale Moon project page to download the optimized custom builds of Firefox for Windows (both 32-bit and 64-bit builds are available).

Download Highly Optimized Firefox 64-bit Version For Windows [Pale Moon]

Windows, to the average citizen of the globe, is the synonym for “operating system”. Windows had, since its debut in 1984, established itself as a trend setter in the technological field. Widows Vista that was released towards the closing of 2006 remains to be the only OS that failed to perform laudable, and Windows 7 (which is often dubbed as an upgraded version of Windows Vista) salvaged the brand. Apple Mac OS X Snow Leopard had offered stiff competition to Windows 7, and the former has been recorded to have received a better response. However, Windows is not one to sit back and lick wounds inflicted, and Windows 8 has created ripples of excitement among enthusiastic geeks all over the world.

Windows 8 is expected to be pack full of new innovative features that is sure to leave all spell bound. The renowned OS brand has already released an early version of Windows 8 on a prototype tablet, and the Developer Preview can be downloaded by any person. This peak sneak of the OS that is still in developmental stage is available for download in 3 versions: a 64-bit version and a 32-bit version with only the OS, and a 64-bit version that includes developer tools.

Windows 8 Features

Support for x86 PCs and ARM tablets

Windows 8 is the first edition in the series that will function on both ARM based tablets and the more traditional x86, x64 and x32 PCs. A guide that accompanies the Developer Preview states that “support for ARM-based chipsets, touch, and sensors makes Windows 8 work beautifully on your choice of a full spectrum of devices, such as 10-inch slates with all-day battery life, ultra-lightweight laptops, and powerful all-in-ones with 27-inch high-definition screens.”

Windows To Go

The feature that will bring about a revolution in the dynamics of how things work is the Windows To Go feature that is a part of their Portable Workstations concept. Windows 8 enables users to boot a computer with a USB in which a copy of Windows is stored.

“Windows To Go is a new feature in Windows 8 that enables enterprise administrators to create USB drives containing complete, managed Windows images that users can use to boot and run Windows on any Windows 7 or Windows 8 capable computer. Windows To Go makes it possible for employees to use a managed device whether they work from home, a client office or in a free seating environment. This session will discuss Windows To Go, its hardware requirements and building compatible and complementary software.”

This means that users can carry their PCs in a 16GB USB drive – 16GB is the space required to store the necessary data required to boot a system – and the possibilities that branch off this concept are wide and varied.

Windows 8 User Interface

Windows 8 tile-based user interface (UI) is yet another alluring feature of this version. The UI reminds one of Apple’s iPads, and it can in fact be called an improved version of the iPad user interface. Neatly categorized tabs help you store, and later browse for, information on your PC. The home page also contains a weather report tab that tells you the climatic condition of the day without even requiring you to open the tab.

Also smacking of Apple’s technology is Windows 8’s option of organizing various tabs in multiple pages that can be flipped to arrive at the desired destination. Adding its own touch to the deal is the option of simultaneously opening two different pages, and one can even choose the size of both the tabs opened. Also, broadband users will find their lives simplified further with Windows 8 allowing them to upload content on the Internet, be it blogging sites or social networking ones, with minimal effort.

Also, the concept of security password has been replaced with the option of clicking at selected spots for the PC to open up.

Windows Store

Taking yet another leaf out of Apple’s book so as to compete with the giant, Windows will also launch the Windows Store. The app store brims with options that make managing files and folders easier than ever. Also, the Windows Store will be the only portal through which people can access the Metro-Styled apps.

Windows Defender

As technology evolves, so does the innovativeness of miscreants. Windows Defender is a feature that promises to keep at bay all viruses, trojans, worms and rootkits, without the help of any other anti virus software. Defender is set to defend systems against all types of malware.

Windows 8 Launch & System Requirements

Windows 8 is expected to launch in mid 2012, though there has been no official announcement regarding the same. The following are the minimum Windows 8 system requirements: 1GHz processer, 1 GB (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) RAM and 16GB (32-bit) or 20GB (64-bit) HDD space.

Also expected to debut alongside the latest member of the Windows family is Internet Explorer 10.

You can read more about the Windows 8 related news, tips & tricks that we have covered on this website here in the related section.

Windows 8 Release Date and Review of New Features

You can use the Apple software update application installed on your computer to automatically update to iTunes 10.5 or you can directly download the latest version iTunes 10.5 directly from Apple website for your respective operating – Windows or Mac. Here is the change log for the iTunes 10.5:

• iTunes in the Cloud. iTunes now stores your music and TV purchases in iCloud and makes them available on your devices anywhere, any time, at no additional cost.
  • Automatic Downloads. Purchase music from any device or computer and automatically download a copy to your PC and iOS devices.
  • Download Previous Purchases. Download your past music, TV, app, and book purchases again, at no additional cost. Previous purchases may be unavailable if they are no longer on the iTunes Store.
• Sync with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 5.
• Wi-Fi Syncing. Automatically sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iTunes any time they’re both on the same Wi-Fi network.

In the meanwhile, you might want to have a look at our recent review of the best new features in the iOS 5! So if you plan to upgrade to soon to be released iOS 5 then you must download this latest iTunes 10.5 update.

Download iTunes 10.5 With iOS 5, iCloud, Wi-Fi Syncing Support For Windows and Mac

Resolving the crisis

Dropbox Portable AHK is the portable equivalent of Dropbox; which implies that you could just take your Dropbox software on your flash drive and walk around and use it on every system you come across without having to install the software painfully on them. The entire software is at your mercy. To execute the program, you have to transfer the entire folder to the respective directory on the system and you’re good to go.

This also allows you to have multiple accounts for accessing the data differently on the same system; which translates as universal equivalence in your rights. This means that whether you’re logged in as the administrator or a guest, you have equal authority over the Dropbox data! Dropbox Portable AHK retains almost all of the features of the full fledged Dropbox software. So you’ll almost ever be able to tell them apart.

Setting up Dropbox Portable AHK

Dropbox Portable AHK allows you to set up a configuration either from scratch or by copying an existing directory.

In case you already have some Dropbox data, you can choose to copy or move the pre-existing data and Dropbox Portable AHK will transfer the contents accordingly to the new folder.

On the other hand, if you do not have a configuration in hand that you would like to stick to, you can configure Dropbox right from the start. You can then sign in using your current Dropbox username and password. Dropbox Portable AHK allows you to set up multiple accounts and save the files on a flash drive so that you can leave with your data right away. Following the above steps, you will receive a notification informing you that your DropboxPortableAHK account was configured right and set up.

You can now keep a tab on multiple Dropbox users and synchronize them on the selected destination directory. Something you should note, though, is that Dropbox Portable AHK requires Dropbox to have been installed already on your system if you wish to copy the current configurations.

Here are the features of the Dropbox Portable AHK in detail as provided by the developer:

• Keeps dropbox up to date
• Makes it fully portable -> you do not have to install it on every pc you use, just copy the entire directory and start the application
• You can put your dropbox on your USB-Stick and have it with you all the time
• You can select which folders should be synchronized to your folder (Selective Sync)
• You can maintain multiple dropbox accounts on the same computer/user account
• You can use your dropbox everywhere, also without administrator privileges
• If a new version is released, the old version will pop up a notification window asking you whether you want to update it or not.

Special features

• SyncAndGo – Let Dropbox sync all files and close it afterwards
• User Applications – Run applications before and after the execution of Dropbox
• Connection Profiles – Set up different connection settings

Compatibility

Dropbox Portable AHK is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7.

Download Dropbox Portable AHK

How to Setup a Portable Dropbox on a USB Drive ? [Tutorial]

According to the release notes one of the big changes is the big improvement in the memory consumption department where in some cases browser can use up to 50% less memory as compared to the last version! On the webpage rendering front, Canvas operations has been significantly improved on Windows and many other small features including bug fixes and stability fixes. See the full change log below:

• Drastically improved memory handling for certain use cases
• Added a new rendering backend to speed up Canvas operations on Windows systems
• Bookmark and password changes now sync almost instantly when using Firefox Sync
• The ‘http://’ URL prefix is now hidden by default
• Added support for text-overflow: ellipsis
• Added support for the Web Timing specification
• Enhanced support for MathML
• The WebSocket protocol has been updated from version 7 to version 8
• Added an opt-in system for users to send performance data back to Mozilla to improve future versions of Firefox
• Fixed several stability issues
• Fixed several security issues

Download mirrors are available on the following link for the Firefox 7.

Firefox 7 Final Released: New Features and Download Links

Now this can be a serious cause of despair for those who have purchased genuine Windows Vista or Windows 7 and require frequent formats. However there is a simple solution and one which spares you the tedious process of having to call Microsoft and go through phone activation every time you reinstall. You don’t even have to purchase the activation key again. Simply download the Advanced Tokens Manager! As a bonus Advanced Tokens Manager will make a backup of your Office 2010 activation files as well!

What is it and how does it work?

Advanced Tokens Manager is a program that allows you to reinstall Windows 7 or Vista in the offline mode. It saves your current activation status by creating a backup of all your license related files and restoring them once you are done with reinstalling. This is all done offline and you don’t need to increase your usage count of the license key. Same feature is also available for the Office 2010 backup and reactivation.

The process in incredibly simple:

1. Once you download and install the software, a dialog box such as the one shown below will appear.

2. Click the backup button to stash your key and license certificates. All this will get stored in a Backup folder in your Advanced Tokens Manager folder.

3. Once you are done with the reinstallation process, restore your key and license files by simply clicking Restore. Just make sure that the Backup and the executable file are in the same directory.

Following these simple steps, you will be able to reinstall your Windows 7 or Vista operating system without much hassle.

This software has been developed by Josh Cell.

Some features of Advanced Tokens Manager:

- This software is totally virus free. So you don’t have to worry about inviting some unknown Trojans on your computer.

- Your activation time is very low. The estimated time is less than 30 seconds.

- The software is coded with many security enhancements.

- It comes a dynamic interface.

- The software in itself is a small file and is quick with the process.

- Compatible with all versions of windows Vista and Windows 7.

- Can also be used with Office 2010.

However while reinstalling your OS on a different hardware, it will ask for online activation.

To download Advanced Tokens Manager, follow the link Advanced Tokens Manager.

Backup and Reinstall Windows 7 and Office 2010 Without Using a License Key [How to]