How To Add Battery Percentage Live Tile On Windows 8.1 Start Screen

By Ben Reid
Battery retention is perhaps the biggest concern of mobile device owners. We can all appreciate the multi-core processors, top-end cameras and the various other bells and whistles associated with these wondrous gadgets, but without sufficient juice to keep them running, they’re essentially useless. Most interfaces offer an at-a-glance battery percentage point, allowing us to quickly check how much power we’ve left before a recharge will be necessary, and not only is this convenient, but it’s more precise than the older system of showing just the virtual, depleting battery. In Windows 8, there’s actually a way to display battery percentage on the Start Screen through a dedicated Live Tile, and below, we’ll show you how to set it up.

When Microsoft was making considerations for features to include with Windows 8 – those essential to the everyday user – one might have thought that at least one member of the team would think to add a battery status tile. After all, the whole Metro / Modern thing was designed squarely (pun intended) with the touch-based users in mind, and given how much we all fret about battery life, such a feature should have been at the forefront of the software maker’s mind.

Still, where Microsoft misses a trick, a third-party will always be willing to put in the leg work, and in this instance, Lythix Designs has stepped up to the plate. The dev’s self-explanatory Battery Level app not only displays battery percentage, but since it’s a Live Tile, will update its background colors similarly to a traditional battery icon.

Once you’ve downloaded and installed the app, setting up is not quite as straightforward as it should be. Thus, check the steps below to help get Battery Level up and running.
Step 1: Firstly, you will of course need to run the app itself.
Step 2: Download the batch file via the option in the top-left corner of the app’s interface.
Step 3: Find the batch file in its downloaded location, right-click and go ‘Run as Administrator’.
Step 4: Finally, navigate to the Start Screen, right-click Battery Level and ‘Pin to Start’.
Voilà! You’ll now be able to view your battery status right from your Start Screen completely passively.


(Download: Battery Level for Windows 8.x on the Windows Store)
 

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Remove pop-up video ads from Chrome, Firefox and IE

If you are seeing random pop-up video ads in the right or left corner of Internet Explorer, Firefox or Google Chrome, then your computer is infected with an adware or a potentially unwanted program.

The video pop-up ads are caused by an ad-supported extension for Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome, which is distributed through various monetization platforms during installation. The malicious browser extensions is typically added when you install another free software (video recording/streaming, download-managers or PDF creators) that had bundled into their installation this adware program.

When an adware extension is installed on your computer, whenever you will open a new tab within Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome, in the right or left corner of your browser video pop-up ads Other common symptoms include:

• Advertising banners are injected with the web pages that you are visiting.
• Random web page text is turned into hyperlinks.
• Browser popups appear which recommend fake updates or other software.
• Other unwanted adware programs might get installed without the user’s knowledge.

You should always pay attention when installing software because often, a software installer includes optional installs, such as this program that is causing these pop-up video ads. Be very careful what you agree to install.
Always opt for the custom installation and deselect anything that is not familiar, especially optional software that you never wanted to download and install in the first place. It goes without saying that you should not install software that you don’t trust.

How to remove pop-up video ads (Virus Removal Guide)

This page is a comprehensive guide, which will remove “Sekindo” virus from your computer and any other adware program that may have been installed during the setup process.
Please perform all the steps in the correct order. If you have any questions or doubt at any point, STOP and ask for our assistance.

STEP 1: Uninstall the adware program responsible for the video pop-up ads
STEP 2: Remove pop-up video ads from Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome with AdwCleaner
STEP 3: Remove video pop-up virus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
STEP 4: Double-check for the pop-up video ads with HitmanPro
(Optional) STEP 5: Remove pop-up video ads from Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome

If you are using an Apple Mac OS X operating system, please follow this Remove virus from Apple Mac OS X (Pop-up Ads and Adware) guide to remove pop-up video ads

STEP 1: Uninstall the adware program responsible for the pop-up video ads

In this first step, we will try to identify and remove any malicious program that might be installed on your computer.

1. To uninstall a program from Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, click the “Start” button, then click on the “Control Panel” menu option.
   
   If you are using Windows 8, simply drag your mouse pointer to the right edge of the screen, select Search from the list and search for “control panel” .Or you can right-click on a bottom left hot corner (formerly known as the Start button) and select Control Panel from there.
   
2. When the “Control Panel” window opens click on the “Uninstall a program” option under “Programs” category. This option is shown by the arrow in the image below. If you are using the “Classic View” of the Control Panel, then you would double-click on the “Programs and Features” icon instead.
   
3. When the “Programs and Features” or the “Uninstall a Program” screen is displayed, scroll through the list of currently installed programs and uninstall New Player, MediaVideosPlayers, Browsers_Apps_Pro, Save Pass, HQualityPro-1.6, Sm23mS, Salus, Network System Driver, SS8, Save Daily Deals, Word Proser, Desktop Temperature Monitor, Savepass, HostSecurePlugin, CheckMeUp and HD-V2.2. This program may have a different name on your computer.
   To view the most recently installed programs, you can click on the “Installed On” column to sort your programs by the installation date. Scroll through the list, and uninstall any unwanted or unknown program.
   If you are having issues while trying to uninstall a program, you can use Revo Uninstaller to completely remove this unwanted program from your machine.
   
   If you cannot find any unwanted or unknown programs on your machine, then you can proceed with the next step.

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STEP 2: Remove pop-up video ads from Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome with AdwCleaner

The AdwCleaner utility will scan your computer and web browser for the “Sekindo” malicious files, browser extensions and registry keys, that may have been installed on your computer without your knowledge.

1. You can download AdwCleaner from the below link.
   ADWCLEANER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will download “AdwCleaner” on your computer)
2. Before starting AdwCleaner, close all open programs and internet browsers, then double-click on the AdwCleaner icon.
   
   If Windows prompts you as to whether or not you wish to run AdwCleaner, please allow it to run.
3. When the AdwCleaner program will open, click on the “Scan” button as shown below.
   
   AdwCleaner will now start to search for the “Sekindo” malicious files that may be installed on your computer.
4. To remove the “Sekindo” malicious files that were detected in the previous step, please click on the “Clean” button.
   
5. AdwCleaner will prompt you to save any open files or documents, as the program will need to reboot the computer. Please do so and then click on the OK button.
   

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STEP 3: Remove pop-up video ads virus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free uses industry-leading technology to detect and remove all traces of malware, including worms, Trojans, rootkits, rogues, dialers, spyware, and more.
It is important to note that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware works well and should run alongside antivirus software without conflicts.

1. You can download download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware from the below link.
   MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new web page from where you can download “Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free”)
2. Once downloaded, close all programs, then double-click on the icon on your desktop named “mbam-setup-consumer-2.00.xx” to start the installation of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.
   
   You may be presented with a User Account Control dialog asking you if you want to run this file. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
3. When the installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Setup Wizard which will guide you through the installation process.
   
   To install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware on your machine, keep following the prompts by clicking the “Next” button.
   
4. Once installed, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will automatically start and you will see a message stating that you should update the program, and that a scan has never been run on your system. To start a system scan you can click on the “Fix Now” button.
   
   Alternatively, you can click on the “Scan” tab and select “Threat Scan“, then click on the “Scan Now” button.
   
5. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now check for updates, and if there are any, you will need to click on the “Update Now” button.
   
6. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for the Sekindo virus. When Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is scanning it will look like the image below.
   
7. When the scan has completed, you will now be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware has detected. To remove the malicious programs that Malwarebytes Anti-malware has found, click on the “Quarantine All” button, and then click on the “Apply Now” button.
   
   Please note that the infections found may be different than what is shown in the image.
8. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now quarantine all the malicious files and registry keys that it has found. When removing the files, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware may require a reboot in order to remove some of them. If it displays a message stating that it needs to reboot your computer, please allow it to do so.
   
   After your computer will restart, you should open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform another “Threat Scan” scan to verify that there are no remaining threats

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STEP 4: Double-check for the “Sekindo” malware infection with HitmanPro

HitmanPro is a second opinion scanner, designed to rescue your computer from malware (viruses, trojans, rootkits, etc.) that have infected your computer despite all the security measures you have taken (such as anti-virus software, firewalls, etc.). HitmanPro is designed to work alongside existing security programs without any conflicts. It scans the computer quickly (less than 5 minutes) and does not slow down the computer.

1. You can download HitmanPro from the below link:
   HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new web page from where you can download “HitmanPro”)
2. Double-click on the file named “HitmanPro.exe” (for 32-bit versions of Windows) or “HitmanPro_x64.exe” (for 64-bit versions of Windows). When the program starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below.
   
   Click on the “Next” button, to install HitmanPro on your computer.
   
3. HitmanPro will now begin to scan your computer for pop-up video ads malicious files.
   
4. When it has finished it will display a list of all the malware that the program found as shown in the image below. Click on the “Next” button, to remove pop-up video ads.
   
5. Click on the “Activate free license” button to begin the free 30 days trial, and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
   

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(Optional) STEP 5: Remove pop-up video ads from Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome

If you are still experiencing issues with the pop-up video ads in Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome, we will need to reset your browser to its default settings. This step needs to be performed only if your issues have not been solved by the previous steps.

You can reset Internet Explorer settings to return them to the state they were in when Internet Explorer was first installed on your PC.

1. Open Internet Explorer, click on the “gear icon”  in the upper right part of your browser, then click again on Internet Options.
   
2. In the “Internet Options” dialog box, click on the “Advanced” tab, then click on the “Reset” button.
   
3. In the “Reset Internet Explorer settings” section, select the “Delete personal settings” check box, then click on “Reset” button.
   
4. When Internet Explorer has completed its task, click on the “Close” button in the confirmation dialogue box. You will now  need to close your browser, and then you can open Internet Explorer again.
   

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Microsoft kicked off its ’12 Days of Deals’ with a Windows 8.1 tablet for $79

As we get closer to Christmas, the Microsoft once again has begun its “12 Days of Deals” promotion. During the next 12 days the Microsoft Store (online and at selected locations) will offer big discounts on technology products, each deal last a one day and quantities are available until supplies last.

It’s important to note that the Microsoft’s 12 Days of Deals offering is not available on every country. Thus far I know the promotion is available in the United States and Canada starting today. Also the deals are different per-territory, for example, the Microsoft Store in the U.S. is kicking off the promotion with the Toshiba Encore Mini tablet for $79 (regular price $119) bundled with a 16GB Micro SD card ($20 value). Although, it’s a good value, you should stay away from this offer as this tablet hasn’t have any good reviews, mostly because of the horrible screen.

Tomorrow, December 9th, the Store will be offering an unlocked BLU Win HD phone for only $129 (regular price $179), and this is a good deal you should take advantage.

All deals start at 8 AM Easter Time and if you happen to live near to a Microsoft Store, you can get even bigger discounts, when you pick up the product before noon.

Now the Microsoft Store in Canada today is kicking off the 12 Days of Deals with an Acer Aspire ES1 Signature Edition Laptop for only $199. This is an $80 saving. And tomorrow the store will also feature the same unlocked Blu Win HD Phone for $129.

Not all the offers for the 12 days are revealed at once, you’ll have to keep checking each day to see new deals.
If you know other countries with similar offers, please share the info in the comments below.

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How to shutdown Windows 8.1 like in the old times using the dialog box

Windows 8 dramatically changed the way we see and use the operating system, and even though there has been many bumps along the way, Windows 8.1 fixed many of the shortcomings, and Windows 10 is being design to improve and fix everything Windows 8 got wrong. However there still many old features and habits that users love from Windows 7 that disappeared with Windows 8 and they’re likely not coming back.

Now for those nostalgic running Windows 8.1 or Windows 10, if you find that shutting down the operating system is a bit odd and you missed the old fashion “Shut Down Windows” dialog box, you can still use it without having to modify anything in your system simply use the Alt + F4 keyboard shortcut instead of trying to shutdown Windows from the Start screen or from the Power User menu.

The only caveat is that if you have any open window or application, using Alt + F4 will close those first. So if you have two apps running and File Explorer open, you’ll need to hit Alt + F4 four times for you to see the “Shut Down Windows” dialog box.
Enjoy!

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How to enable ‘Dark Mode’ aka ‘High Contrast’ mode in Skype for Windows Phone 8.1

Skype for Windows Phone 8.1 recently got an update which adds the ability to enable dark mode on the popular video calling app of Windows Phone. The feature can prove to be very useful for people who want to use the app in dark situations where default (light) theme can provide to be too bright to see.

Dark Modes have always been very useful while trying to use your mobile phone devices in dark conditions and too bright or light themes can prove to be painful for your eyes.

Now, Microsoft has added a useful feature in the Skype for Windows Phone which will turn your Skype theme into dark one which makes it very easy to use Skype in dark. You just have to turn on this option from settings and your theme will convert to dark one.

Simply follow the instructions below to enable dark mode in Skype for Windows Phone 8.1.

Instructions:

• Hoping you have installed the latest update for Skype on your Windows Phone 8.1. Open the app.
• Once opened, press ‘…’ on bottom right corner. Your menu will open.

• Here press ‘Settings‘. Your settings will open.
• Your ‘Settings’ will open. Here turn on the ‘High-contrast (dark)’ by moving the slider switch to right.
• Skype will require a restart to enable high-contrast mode. Press ‘close Skype’ and Skype app will close.

• Now, reopen the Skype app and your dark mode will be enabled.

• That’s all!

You may visit our Tips & Tweaks section for more tips, tricks and tweaks about Windows Phone and its apps.

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Here is how to add cellular ‘Data Connection’ switch to action center in Windows Phone 8.1.1

Microsoft has recently rolled out an update for Windows Phone 8.1 Preview users which adds the support for Cortana in additional regions. But, Cortana isn’t the only feature being added in this update. You can now add ‘Cellular Data Connection’ switch to the Action Center pull down menu in the notifications bar.

Windows Phone 8.1 was missing the ability to toggle data connection on/off from the quick settings action center in Windows Phone 8.1 and it was one of the most wanted feature for users. Now, the software giant has finally added that feature in the latest update which means you will be able to turn on or off data connection from the switch in action center without the need of going to settings.

Follow the instructions below to add data connection switch to action center in Windows Phone 8.1 with Update 1.

Note: You must be running the Windows Phone 8.10.14219.341 build to get the option to add data connection in action center.

Instructions:

• Simply go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Notifications+Actions’ and here tap any slot where you would like to add data connection toggle switch.
• You would be asked to select the options. Here select ‘Cellular Data’.
• Cellular data connection switch would be added to your action center. Simply tap it and your data connection will be toggled on/off.
• That’s all!

You may visit our Tips & Tweaks section for more tips, tricks and tweaks about Windows Phone 8.1.

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20 Useful Microsoft Windows 8.1 Tips & Tricks

With the upgrade from Windows 8 to 8.1, Microsoft has made several changes mainly to improve on certain aspects that Windows 8 has received criticism for. For starters, there’s the return of the good old Start button, ability to create a lock screen slideshow, and even support for 3D printing!

We have got for you here a list of 20 useful tips and tricks for Windows 8.1. Whether you are entirely new to or beginning to get familiar with Windows 8.1, the following list should help you get the most out of this latest offering by Microsoft.

1. View Options From the Start Button

The Start button is back. It is similar to the Start button found on Windows 7. Left-click on the button (bottom left of the screen) and it will redirect you to the Start Screen. If you right-click on it, it will show options for Run, Search, Desktop, Shut Down, and many more.

2. Log In Straight to Desktop

When you start your computer, by default it will take you to the Start Screen. There is a way to start your computer and go straight to the Desktop instead. Right-click on the desktop toolbar, select Properties and go to the Navigation tab. Under the Start Screen options, enable the box "When I sign in or close all applications on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start".

3. Customize Home Screen Tiles

Besides resizing icons, you can also customize your home screen tiles on Windows 8.1. To move and group tiles, just go to your Start Screen and right-click on any of the tiles. After grouping your tiles, you can also name them by filling in the Name Group field.

4. Customize Start Screen Background

Windows 8.1 also allows you to customize your start screen. Just swipe the Settings Charm menu and tap on Settings. Click on Personalize to change the colors of the background as well as the accent.

5. Create A Lock Screen Slideshow

Previously, your Windows lock screen could only be a static photo. On Windows 8.1, you are able to create a lock screen slideshow with your favorite photos. To do this, go to the Settings Charm menu, click on Change PC Settings, select PC and Devices then click on Lock Screen. Enable the option On to create a lock screen slideshow.

6. Use Internet Explorer 11 Reading View

When you load any webpage using Internet Explorer 11, a Reading View icon can be seen on the address bar. If you click on it, Internet Explorer will automatically reload the page and display a clean version – free of ads. This makes it very easy to read as there are no distractions. However, this feature is not available for the desktop version of Internet Explorer 11.

7. Make Use of 3D Printing Support

Windows 8.1 is the first operating system to provide support for 3D printing! You can print from the Windows Store apps and desktop applications. For more information on how this works, click here.

8. Customize Privacy Options

Windows 8.1 offers you options to set what devices and data are used by apps found in the Windows Store. You can allow or block apps from accessing your personal information. You are also able to turn off your advertising ID so that advertisers do not use your personal data to display personalised ads. To customize these settings, go to Change PC settings and navigate to Privacy.

9. Smart Files

Smart Files is a new feature on Windows 8.1 that allows you to view your SkyDrive files without having to download everything onto your computer. When you browse through your SkyDrive folder in File Explorer, you’ll see a column called Availability.
By default, all the files are listed as Online-only, which means that as long as you are connected to the Internet, you can view the files without actually having them on your computer’s hard drive. If you want a particular SkyDrive file or folder to be available offline, just right-click on it and select the Make available offline option.

10. Customize Quiet Hours

Integrated notification pop-ups were first introduced on Windows 8. What’s new on Windows 8.1 is the option to turn the notifications off or set a period of time for which the notifications may appear. To do this, go to Change PC settings, click on Search and Apps, select Notifications, and configure the relevant options.

11. More Windowing Options for New Style Apps

On Windows 8, users could split their screen to run up to 8 apps on two 2560 x 1600 monitors. Depending on your screen size, some may only be able to split and run 2 apps. On Windows 8.1, you can do all that and more – you can add another app and resize it so that it runs horizontally (see screenshot). However, that works only if the developer has allowed it for the app.

12. Scale Each Screen Independently

In the past, Windows allowed you to scale up icons and fonts to a maximum of 500%. However, what is best for your screen may not necessarily translate on a secondary display. Text and icons may not be in proportion to one another. To solve this problem, Windows 8.1 allows you to scale each screen independently. To customize these settings, right-click on the Windows Desktop, select Screen Resolution, and select Make text and other items larger or smaller.

13. Discover The App Bars

The App bar is featured on every new Windows 8.1 app. To enable this option, right-click on the app’s screen and it will show the app’s functions and options.

14. Configure Automatic App Updates

Unlike Windows 8, app updates in Windows 8.1 will be automatically installed by default without the user’s consent. To stop this from happening, open Windows Store and access the Settings Charm menu – the charm must only be activated once in the Windows Store or else it will not display the required menus. In the Settings Charm menu, select Settings and navigate to App Updates. Enable or disable the option to automatically update apps.

15. Prevent Apps From Running in The Background

Previously on Windows 8, when you drag a Start Screen app down to the bottom of the screen, it will close the app. However, on Windows 8.1, this action will only make the app disappear – it is still running in the background. To close the app, drag the app down to the bottom of the screen but instead of letting it go, hold on to it. Wait until the app card flips over, and only now the app is closed.

16. Use Hands-Free Mode

One of the coolest features that not many know about is found in the new Food & Drink app. If you do not like to get your computer all dirty when you are cooking, then this app is for you. Going through the recipe, you can set the app on Hands-Free Mode. It will detect your hand motion via your computer’s webcam.

17. Restore Libraries

By default, Windows 8.1 has hidden Libraries. If you want to get it back, open File Explorer and you will find the newly renamed This PC view. Here, select View, and click on Navigation pane. Lastly, enable the option to Show Libraries.

18. Delete Old Windows Installation Files

When you upgrade from an old version of Windows, Windows keeps a C:\Windows.old with your old files. You can delete this folder to free up some storage space. To do this, Search for Disk Cleanup, and click on Free up disk space shortcut. Next, click on Clean up system files, enable the Previous Windows Installation(s) option, and run a disk cleanup. If this option does not appear, that means there is nothing to clean up.

19. Use Help & Tips App

For further help on how to get the most out of Windows 8.1, an app has been added to guide you on pretty much everything. There are short animations to show you the correct gestures and concepts to master Windows 8.1. You can find this app on the Start Screen, titled Help+Tips.

20. Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Last but not least, we have put together a list of 15 new keyboard shortcuts you can use on Windows 8.1.

Shortcut	Action
Windows Key + S	Open Search Charm to search Windows and Web
Windows Key + Q	Search within the opened app
Windows Key + F	Search files
Windows Key + Z	Get Commands and Context Menus within an app
Windows Key + . + Right Arrow	Snap app to the right
Windows Key + . + Left Arrow	Snap app to the left
Ctrl + plus (+)	Zoom in on Start Screen
Ctrl + Minus (-)	Zoom out on Start Screen
Windows Key + Down Arrow	Close an app
Windows Key + Start Typing	Search your PC
Windows Key + O	Lock the screen orientation (portrait or landscape)
Windows Key + Ctrl + Spacebar	Change to a previously selected input language
Windows Key + P	Choose a presentation display mode
Windows Key + X	Open Start Button options
Windows Key + Home	Minimize all but the active desktop window

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