Daily Roundup: Tablet buyer's guide, Outlook goes down, Windows 8.1 launch date, and more!
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
Engadget's back to school guide 2013: tablets
Are tablets the long-awaited replacement for laptop computers? Every year they increase in processing power, slim down by half, and become more advanced in almost every way. Well we can't answer the latter question, but we do know which are the best slates out on the market right now, and we'll gladly help you find them. So, where to start? How about at the link above, where we've selected nine devices that'll keep you busy before, during and after class.
PowerA's Moga Power controllers charge your phone while you play
Since we saw PowerA's Moga Pro controller at CES earlier this year, the company has shown that it's keen to evolve its product line based on early adopter feedback. Its two latest Bluetooth Android controllers -- the Moga Pro Power and the more petite Moga Hero Power -- bring some added functionality to PowerA's lineup while building on the successes (and shortcomings) of the previous iterations. Click on for our hands-on, and first impressions of the new gaming devices.
Sphero 2.0 rolls out at speeds 'slightly slower than a Lamborghini'
We loved the Sphero robotic ball when we reviewed it back in 2011, but ultimately decided that it didn't have enough features to justify the $130 price tag. Since then, Orbotix, the company behind the rolling wonder, has made some pretty significant upgrades. Most importantly though, they've released an open API that allows developers to independently develop for the Sphero, and so far have churned out around 20 compatible titles on the iPhone. So does Orbotix's second-generation robot do the trick? Read on to find out.
Microsoft confirms Windows 8.1 launching October 17th
Microsoft's launch of Windows 8.1, previously known as Blue, has been a long and winding saga of rumors and leaks. Now, the company is ready to announce the arrival date for the update -- October 17th -- which confirms a recent rumor of a mid-month launch. Can't make it until then? Fret not. Head on over to our in-depth hands-on, and familiarize yourself with the details.
