Microsoft Working on Fix for Office Bugs in OS X El Capitan
Since OS X El Capitan was released to the public last week, Microsoft Office users have noticed some serious bugs when attempting to use the software. MacRumors has received multiple emails from people having issues with Office 2016, and there are several threads about the problem on our forums.
Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint are crashing for many Microsoft users who have installed Office 2016, and Office 2011 users are also noticing problems with Outlook.
Microsoft is aware of the problems with its software and has been responding to customer complaints. In a thread on the Microsoft forums, Microsoft Program Manager Faisal Jeelani said the company is working with Apple to resolve the issues, but said there is no timeline for a fix. Microsoft also gave Computerworld a similar statement:
“We know that some users may be experiencing issues with Office 2016 for Mac running on El Capitan,” the statement read. “We are actively investigating the matter with Apple. Until there is a fix, we recommend people install the latest updates to Office 2016 for Mac using Microsoft AutoUpdate.”
Customers who are running Office 2016 are running into a wide variety of problems. Some are seeing only occasional crashes with the software, while others are unable to open any Office 2016 apps at all. Many who use Outlook for email are unable to access their inboxes, and this particular issue affects both Office 2016 and Office 2011.
I even did a fresh install of El Cap and then did a fresh install of 2015 Office. The whole office suite just bounces when I try to load a file. The programs freeze when using them and then crazy. I just keep sending the crash reports to Microsoft. I thought it was more widespread but apparently it is just me. I uninstalled 2016 office and went back to 2011.
Microsoft’s first support replies came shortly after OS X El Capitan was released, which means the company has been working on a fix for several days now, but it is not clear when a patch might be released. Many customers on the Microsoft forums are growing angry with the company because Microsoft had several months to work out crashing issues ahead of OS X El Capitan’s release. Crashes and Office 2016 problems were first reported during the beta testing period but remain unresolved.
Chromecast (2015) review: A more well-rounded streaming device from Google
Google introduced the second version of their Chromecast streaming device earlier this week alongside a Chromecast Audio device for speakers, and immediately made them available for sale through the Play Store and Best Buy. With expedited shipping, early orders are already arriving in the hands of buyers, including a couple that I ordered and received this week. Aside from changing the shape to a round form factor, did Google make enough changes to make the device a worthy successor?
What’s in the box
Before jumping in to any changes in performance, let’s take a look at what comes in the new Chromecast’s box. Packaging is pretty minimal with instructions printed on the inside of the marketing shell that surrounds the cardboard box. The Chromecast comes in a round shape and is available in three colors – black, yellow and coral. Instead of a stick form factor, the HDMI connection is at the end of a flexible cable that extends out from the round disk opposite the USB connection.
Laying the Chromecast down alongside the first generation, you may notice that the length is roughly unchanged with the extender included. The first generation got the extender to help with WiFi reception, so the new cable appears to be a permanent solution to that while also helping free up space if your television connection panel is getting crowded. Google also built in a small magnet on the end of the HDMI connector which can be used on the back of the Chromecast itself to create the loop so many have seen.
With the extender now part of the unit itself, the only other item included in the box is the power cable, which is really a USB cable and a power brick. Google did change the orientation of the prongs and USB slot so they are opposite each other instead of the USB cable going out the side. A nice Chrome logo is also imprinted into the charging brick.
Setup
Setting up this Chromecast is pretty much the same as the first generation. Once the unit is plugged in and powered up, just switch your television to the appropriate source. You will be greeted with a screen letting you know you need to set up the Chromecast. Fire up the Chromecast app on your mobile device, switch to the devices tab, and wait a few seconds for your Chromecast to show up in the list of devices. The app will let you know it is waiting to be setup.
Once you start the process, your mobile device will connect directly to the Chromecast and you just verify the code that is shown on the screen. You will then connect to your wireless network and decide whether you want to enable guest mode and usage statistics reporting back to Google.
The big difference of course is that with the addition of support for 5GHz WiFi, any access points you have running on 5GHz will show up in the list of available networks. One small touch that I noticed when setting up my first unit was that the app recognized my smartphone was initially connected to the 2.4GHz access point on my network. After connecting the Chromecast to the 5GHz access point, the app let me know it would switch my phone over to the same access point once setup was completed so I would be able to cast from my phone.
Google has already pushed out an update for its new Chromecast, so you will have to wait for that to complete. While downloading and installing, the Chromecast will show a video advertisement for sixty-six seconds in length before starting the reboot process. In all, it took six minutes from when I started the setup to when the unit was ready for me to cast to it.
Performance
When Google announced the new Chromecast, they talked about the updates they made and how they were intended to get content casting faster. This included changes to support 5GHz access points and 802.11ac signals along with better antennas. On the software side, Google says apps will load faster and content will load in the background in anticipation of what users plan to watch.
In preliminary testing, I found Google seems to have hit the mark in their efforts to speed things up. When I hit the cast button in Netflix on my smartphone, it only takes Netflix on the Chromecast about four to announce that it is ready to cast, much faster than what I experienced with the first generation. When I do start up a title, I have found thus far that it launches right away in high definition. My first generation unit generally took 20-30 seconds of low resolution casting before the stream would stabilize enough to switch over to high resolution.
I also did some testing in which I launched a YouTube video from my laptop and let that play for a while. On my smartphone, I then started up Google Play Movies and started casting a movie, taking over the Chromecast from what was casting via the laptop. The switchover was quick and smooth. Likewise, when I decided to cast the screen from my smartphone, the Chromecast started to display the screen within a couple seconds.
Closing
When Google created the Chromecast, they took a little bit of a different tack on a streaming media device. Instead of trying to build in services and platforms, the Chromecast is focused solely on providing a wireless connection between a user’s devices and their television. It is up to the user to access content and apps. Google was shooting for was ease of use and a low price point.
With the second generation Chromecast, Google focused on continuing that ease of use concept while improving the user experience, primarily by making everything work more smoothly and quicker. I think they hit that mark in creating a much more seamless experience. For those who already have the first generation device, there might be a question of whether they should drop $35 for the upgrade. My impression is that the step up will be worth it, especially if you are like me and get impatient sometimes with the wait for content to load on the original Chromecast.
The improvements for the new Chromecast may seem minor and a bit obvious overall, like adding support for 5GHz WiFi. Much of Google’s focus was on improving the underlying code and polishing up the Chromecast app on mobile devices. When put together in their updated device, Google succeeded in producing a better all around streaming dongle.
Come comment on this article: Chromecast (2015) review: A more well-rounded streaming device from Google
Twitter removes ‘interim’ tag in naming Dorsey CEO
After a three-month run serving as the interim CEO for Twitter, founder Jack Dorsey has been named the permanent CEO for the social media platform. Dorsey took over on an interim basis earlier this year after Dick Costolo decided to part ways from the company. In addition to his role as CEO for Twitter, Dorsey will continue as the CEO for online payment company Square, which he founded in 2009.
Dorsey took to his Twitter account this morning to share some thoughts regarding the appointment and the future for Twitter:
Both companies have strong businesses and are well positioned to grow their impact in the world. I will do whatever it takes to ensure that.
— Jack (@jack) October 5, 2015
http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
One of the steps that Dorsey plans to take is to improve the way Twitter works so more users feel comfortable accessing the service. Dorsey could turn to some of the third-party apps available for Twitter users for inspiration as the company works to improve their apps and platform.
Our work forward is to make Twitter easy to understand by anyone in the world, and give more utility to the people who love to use it daily!
— Jack (@jack) October 5, 2015
http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
Besides improvements to the app, it seems likely that Twitter and Square will continue to strengthen the bond between the companies and services, like the initiative announced during the interim period that enables political campaigns to use a combination of Square and Twitter to make contributions to candidates.
Along with dropping the interim tag from Dorsey’s title, Twitter also announced Adam Bain, who was the company’s head of revenue, will be moving up to serve as the chief operating officer. Costolo completed his separation from the company as he officially stepped down from the Twitter board. In his role as CEO, Dorsey will not get paid by Twitter, though he does own a significant stake in the company.
Where would you like to see Dorsey lead either Twitter or Square moving forward?
Come comment on this article: Twitter removes ‘interim’ tag in naming Dorsey CEO
Google’s Nat and Lo walk us through the history of Android Easter eggs
By now we should all be aware of Android Easter eggs, the cute little treats Google leaves inside all recent Android devices’ settings menus for our viewing pleasure. They’re accessible by tapping numerous times on the Android version number under the About section. These have been around since Android 2.3 Gingerbread, when a certain Googler received a painting of a Bugdroid next to a zombified gingerbread man and thought it was a good idea to hide it somewhere within the platform. Ever since that release, Google has included different Easter eggs for every major release of Android.
Most recently, Android 5.0 Lollipop featured a full game for its Easter egg, as a nod towards the most famous mobile title that released last year, Flappy Bird. This was possibly the most positively received Easter egg Google has ever released, so it’s no surprise to see it return for the Android 6.0 Marshmallow Easter egg.
Related: Android Marshmallow launches next week
To get a better look at the history of the Android Easter egg, Google’s Nat and Lo have created a short video that walks us through every step of the way. You can find the video attached below:
What’s your favorite Android Easter egg? Is it Lollipop’s Flappy Bird clone, or are you more a fan of Jelly Bean’s “BeanFlinger” game?
Android 6.0 Marshmallow factory images arrive for Nexus 5, 6, 7 (2013), 9 and Player
If you happen to own a Nexus device and you’ve been waiting to get your hands on the most recent version of Android, your wait is finally over – Google has just posted Android 6.0 Marshmallow factory images for all current Nexus devices. Owners of the Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 7 (2013), Nexus 9 and Nexus Player can now download and install Android 6.0 on their devices.
Remember that installing these updates directly from the Google Developer website requires a bit of know-how, and we’ve put together a walkthrough that should be able to help if you’re new to the manual installation method. If you aren’t keen on updating manually, Google should begin rolling out Android 6.0 OTAs to these Nexus devices any day now.
Related: Android Marshmallow launches next week
To get started with the downloads, head to the Google Developers link below.
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Android 6.0 Marshmallow updates begin for select Nexus models
Google on Monday kicked off the week by releasing the latest version of its mobile software platform, Android 6.0 Marshmallow. According to Google, select smartphones and tablets will receive the software update.
Among the models seeing Marshmallow release are the Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 7 (2013), Nexus 9 and Nexus Player. Of course, the newly launched Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P are running Android 6.0 out of the box. As has been the case with previous updates of this sort, the files will be delivered over the air. If you own one of these models, keep an eye on your notifications.
Key features included in the Android 6.0 software update include Google Now On Tap, smarter app permissions, longer lasting battery life, and enhanced security support coming by way of a fingerprint scanner. And, for those graduating from and older Android smartphone, the Marshmallow release makes it simple to transfer your account and set up the new model.
Looking ahead, Google plans to host an Android for Work Live online event on November 4. If you’re the type of user who brings your smartphone to work for actual work purposes, you may be interested in learning more about how Marshmallow helps here, too.
The post Android 6.0 Marshmallow updates begin for select Nexus models appeared first on AndroidGuys.
HTC: monthly security updates are a goal, but unlikely to happen
HTC likes the idea of pushing out monthly security updates to its smartphones and is committed to doing so. But, for all its efforts, HTC may think this is an unattainable goal.
Jason Mackeznie, president of HTC America, advised that HTC will push for them to happen, however, he relented that it could be “unrealistic” to hit the mark every time out.
Google announced earlier this year that it plans to issue monthly software updates for its Nexus line which are dedicated to security. Falling quickly on the heels of the first Stagefright exploit, Google was joined by other hardware makers (LG, Samsung) who pledged similar support.
As easy as it might be to point fingers at HTC, it’s likely Mackenzie is simply being realistic and honest. HTC will have to receive the update from Google and integrate it into its smartphones and then turn that over to the various wireless providers. Once approved then the update goes out.
Because it has had a tough go at things over the last few quarters, HTC has been forced to juggle things around. In other words, the company may not be operating quite as efficiently as we’d like them to be. And, since its sales are lower than those from others, it stands to reason that a carrier might not be as quick to push things through as it would for a player like Samsung.
How much impact this has on users likely varies from person to person. I wager to guess that while some folks will be up in arms over the news, others might not even know what sort of security updates are expected.
The post HTC: monthly security updates are a goal, but unlikely to happen appeared first on AndroidGuys.
New certification will ensure HDMI cables can output 4K
While many HDMI cables these days can spit out 4K, the results can be hit-or-miss (especially as you start exploring longer cable lengths). So the HDMI Licensing group, which manages the interface, has developed a new premium certification to make sure any cable that advertises 4K compatibility actually works for that higher resolution. As part of the certification, companies will follow an expanded set of guidelines when creating cables and also test them more vigorously to make sure they can output the full 18 Gbps needed for the HDMI 2.0 spec. It’s not just about 4K, either — the certification also ensures that cables support high dynamic range (HDR) video. Once approved, the premium certified cables will sport a tamper proof sticker, which should make it easier to find them in the sea of untested cables on the market. Hopefully, this means the end of gambling with 4K HDMI cable compatibility.
[Photo credit: Shutterstock]
Source: HDMI Group
Nissan’s concept car is covered in displays for the selfie generation
There’s little doubt the cars of the future will be increasingly more high tech. However, if Nissan has anything to do with it, those vehicles could be blanketed in customizable displays, too. The Japanese company revealed its “Teatro for Dayz” (yes, really) concept ahead of the Tokyo Motor Show later this month that covers most of the interior, and some of the exterior, with “a clean canvas” of LED panels. Nissan’s goal was to make a car that “share natives” (the selfie generation, in other words) would find appealing. To do that, the automaker designed a vehicle where time spent riding could also be used for “connecting and sharing experiences with friends.” And, you know, paying attention to the road. Slideshow-325470
All of that sharing can be done with the literal truckload of customizable panels that handle things like navigation, telemetry, social apps and even vary the look of the seats between leather, grass and more. The seats, headrests, door trim and dash are all part of the visual assault on your senses. On the outside, LED panels not only allow for more self-expression, but they display useful info like the EV’s recharge status. You won’t find any knobs and buttons on the instrument panel either, as air conditioning and audio are all voice controlled and driving data is only displayed when the car is in drive mode. If rotating seats and a smattering of interior panels sounds familiar, that’s because Mercedes-Benz F015 concept was equipped with a few of its own, including displays in the doors. Nissan has gone way beyond that, though, with a vehicle that can be decorated to suite the driver’s ever-changing sensibilities. Driving distractions be damned.
Via: PCWorld
Source: Nissan
Confessions of a ‘Rock Band 4’ drum queen
“Drums are hard.”
That was the verdict from my boyfriend after a raucous night playing Rock Band 4 with a group of friends. He’s a guitarist, in both the physical and digital realms, and to him, Rock Band 4‘s drums are an anomaly. The rhythms are somehow tricky and repetitive at the same time; landing the bass pedal takes nearly perfect timing; it’s a big rig that requires big motions; and the entire instrument takes a ridiculous amount of coordination. This is why my boyfriend doesn’t enjoy playing the drums in Rock Band 4 — and it’s precisely why I love it. Slideshow-324545
Drums are the best instrument in Rock Band 4. Hands-down, straight-up and sideways. To start with, drums are the most “real” instrument in the game, in the sense that banging on those rubber pads may actually help you play the drums in real life. It’s not an ideal teacher, but the heart of the instrument lies in hand-foot coordination and keeping a steady rhythm, which are the exact traits that Rock Band 4 emphasizes. The game isn’t going to teach you proper technique, but it drills in important foundations and even makes them fun to learn. Besides, playing the drums for an hour is a great upper-arm and lower-leg workout (provided you swap the bass pedal between your right and left sides).
The same real-life transference doesn’t apply to guitar — this isn’t Rocksmith, after all — although Rock Band 4‘s lead and bass tracks do provide a lineup of accessible finger exercises. As for the microphone, let’s be honest: Singing in Rock Band has always been fun, but a cat in heat would probably score the same as Christina Aguilera in most difficulty settings. Rock Band 4 proudly carries on this tradition.
To be fair, I’m probably predisposed to preferring drums. Before settling on the saxophone, I took a year of drums in elementary school and I’ve never quite satisfied that persistent itch to pick up a pair of sticks again. I’m also a former high school marching band section leader (tenor sax, represent), and the drums’ bass-pedal coordination requirements are a wonderful throwback to my first marching lessons, reminding me how to separate foot from fingers.
There are other, less practical reasons the drums truly rule in Rock Band 4. While landing a complicated streak on guitar is satisfying, it can’t quite compare to pounding out a perfect rhythm on the drums. You not only see your success on the screen, but also hear it directly on the instrument, right in front of you in the physical world. This is what makes players feel like real rock stars — not pressing buttons on the neck of a stringless, silent guitar or screeching into a microphone, but banging out a solid, consistent rhythm on a living-room drum set. That’s musical magic.
Even my drum-averse boyfriend agrees on this front. As he puts it, “It’s fun to hit things.” And it’s true, being encouraged to smack something with a pair of sticks is incredibly gratifying; plus it plays into the “real-life rock star” element of the game. However, that satisfying smacking sound comes with one potential downside.
We recently moved into a condo that shares a hallway with seven other units, containing everything from young families to retirees who seem to constantly have delicious food in the oven, and I’m a tad paranoid about the sounds that escape our door. I don’t want to be the noisy neighbor or the reason someone’s daughter can’t get to sleep on a school night. I’m acutely aware of every single tap that my sticks make on the hard rubber drumheads. So far, we haven’t received any complaints (fingers crossed). Either way, my sense of fun always wins out: I’m aware and I’m paranoid of the noise, but I’m not going to stop playing. I’m a rock star, damn it.
Let’s be clear here: I’m not saying that the drums are the best part of Rock Band 4. They’re simply the best instrument. The best part of Rock Band 4 is hanging out with a bunch of friends as they embarrass themselves at the helm of toy instruments. It’s the laughter when someone on vocals gets a solo and they break down in nervous giggles and weird yodeling (and still end up with a perfect score). It’s pretending to be a rock star on tour in a band composed of your closest buddies, though ideally with less gas station food (but perhaps just as much booze).
Besides, I’m glad that not everyone agrees with my preference. This way, I don’t have to fight my boyfriend for the drumsticks.
<a href=”https://www.wedgies.com/question/560c72ece189eb3900002b71″>What’s your Rock Band instrument of choice?</a>
AIVAnet 