The Intel NUC mini-PC---technically a mini-PC kit to which I've added RAM and storage---is that rarest of delights, a cost-effective yet powerful PC that just works.

Here are some tidbits from around the web: Microsoft will sell cellular data to Windows users, Cortana is available now in Cyanogen on OnePlus phones, the possibility of fast-charging an Xbox One controller looms.

Adopting Android as your smart phone platform doesn't mean you need to leave Microsoft behind. So this new series will step through the process of getting up and running with your Microsoft-based data and apps on Android.

Day 12 of Microsoft's 12 Days of Deals provides a $50 gift card to Microsoft's content stores when you purchase a one-year Groove Music Pass subscription.

Choosing a living room set top box can be trying for the Microsoft technology fan, and each of the best devices comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Mobile devices---and smart phones in particular---are only as good as the apps you use. So here are my favorite and most-useful/most-used mobile apps of 2015.

Here's what's happening today: Further proof that Android is the new Windows, and news of potential Xbox 360 game capability with Windows 10 PCs.

Sonos added Microsoft Groove support to its line of well-regarded, Wi-Fi-connected smart speakers. This was my cue to see how they work together.

With Windows Phone 8.1 or newer and a compatible handset, you can wirelessly mirror—or “cast”—your handset’s display to a Miracast-enabled HDTV or other display. This is a great solution for enjoying phone-based entertainment services, sharing a photo slide show, displaying a presentation, and more, all on the biggest screen in the room. Note: This Miracast-based…

In Windows Phone 8.1, Microsoft added the ability to select custom volume levels for different activities. The most obvious change is that you automatically get different volume levels for the phone ringer and notifications, and for media and apps. But if you use external speakers and other devices, the volume controls will adapt for them…

For the few, the proud, the Zune HD users, there is Zune HD and then there is nothing else. But what do you do when a Zune HD gives up the ghost? Is there an acceptable modern alternative? Why yes. Yes, there is. I thought you’d never ask. Larry S. asks: My beloved Zune HD…

Windows Phone fans pining for the days of Metro panoramas and integrated experiences have had a tough couple of years, with Microsoft steadily removing many of the platform’s user experience differentiators. But as I’ve argued, there’s reason behind this madness. And now an ex-Microsoft design lead who actually worked on Windows Phone has gone public…

With Microsoft finally offering a way for Xbox Music users to add their own music to a cloud-based music collection, it’s time to re-examine a golden oldie of sorts: What’s the best way to rip the music you already own on CD to a digital format you can then access from all your devices with…

After a frustrating day of trying to get up and running with Windows 10 Technical Preview 2 for Phones, I was finally able to install it on a single device, a Lumia 635. Here’s a quick peek at what this fledgling new system looks like in phone form, with some comparisons to the corresponding UIs…