For the longest time, signing into Microsoft Edge has been tied exclusively to a Microsoft account. In practice, that meant logging into the Chromium-based browser with a Google account was virtually impossible. Well, until now.

A new Microsoft roadmap entry (ID 565860) reveals that the company is preparing to let users sign into Microsoft Edge with a Google account (via Neowin).

To that end, the feature is still in development, but it should ship to broad availability by July 2026. This is a welcome change and could make Microsoft Edge more appealing to users who don't necessarily care about the mandatory Microsoft Account requirement when signing in to the browser.

It's a refreshing change of pace and direction for Microsoft, especially given that it had categorically stated in 2020 that it had no plans to integrate Google services into Microsoft Edge by default, even though it was one of the most requested features at the time.

At least, that's one less place you have to worry about Microsoft Account being a mandatory requirement. Of course, it goes without saying that signing into Microsoft Edge with a Microsoft Account comes with many perks, including seamless syncing across devices, tighter integration with Microsoft services like OneDrive and Outlook, and enhanced security.

Elsewhere, Microsoft recently announced that Edge would be moving to a two-week release cycle for major versions of the browser, similar to Google's approach with Chrome.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

It's been a week since Microsoft unveiled its plans to address several major pain points in Windows 11, including performance, reliability, and overall user experience.

This announcement, of course, arrived at a crucial time. Windows 11's reputation has been dragged through the mud of late, and even the most diehard fans have begun speaking up about forced Copilot bloat, excessive ads, unreliable updates, and general performance.

It certainly seems like Microsoft is realizing it must course-correct, but not everyone's wishes have been acknowledged. One notable omission from Microsoft's big redemption announcement was a change to the mandatory Microsoft account requirements when setting up a new PC.

It used to be that you could open a fresh PC and start using Windows with nothing more than a local account. You didn't even need to connect to the internet. That all changed with the Windows 11 version 22H2 update in 2023, which thereafter required Home and Pro users to sign in with an official Microsoft account.

All hope is not lost, for Microsoft Vice President Scott Hanselman, who is working on improving the quality of Windows 11, gave a response on X that seems to suggest that his team is considering removing the forced account requirement.

Windows Central readers want to scrap Windows 11's mandatory Microsoft account requirement

Scrapping this mandatory Microsoft Account during setup is something I want oh-so-badly, and I know I'm not alone. It's one of the gripes I see most when browsing the Windows web.

Windows Central Senior Editor Zac Bowden polled our readers when he covered Hanselman's response, asking whether or not YOU think Windows 11 should drop the mandatory Microsoft account requirements. The results are not exactly shocking.

The poll remains open, and I urge you to express your opinion above if you haven't already.

As it stands at the time of writing this post, 55% of our readers polled said that they'd use a local account if it were an option. Another 35% said that they'd appreciate it if both options were available when setting up a new PC.

7% of readers said they'd stick with a Microsoft account even if a local account were available, and just 3% said they don't mind the current forced account requirement.

I'm not 100% certain that the forced account requirement will ever go away. As my colleague Zac Bowden points out, there are many separate teams inside of Microsoft that undoubtedly benefit from Windows users requiring an official account.

At the very least, it's good to see big names at Microsoft engaging with the community as the company commits to polishing Windows. Actual results, of course, will dictate the success of the initiative.

Are these results any surprise?

Were you expecting a different result from our poll asking if Windows 11's forced Microsoft account requirement should be dropped? Do you know anyone who actually likes not being able to use a local account? Let me know in the comments section below!

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

It hasn't been too long since a OneDrive user was locked out of "30 years worth of photos and work" for seemingly no reason, paired with an apparent lack of support from Microsoft, as they called the company a "Kafkaesque black hole". It highlighted the dangers of relying solely on one cloud-based system, particularly for backups, and stood as a disappointing example of how interpreted violations of any terms of use agreement can lead to entire accounts being lost.

Recently, Russian developer Mike Kaganski, part of the LibreOffice development team working on the open-source and free alternative to Microsoft Office, was similarly struck with a baffling and unexpected ban, locking them out of their Microsoft account after sending a harmless email containing little more than notes on code bugs and potential fixes (via Neowin).

After reading the details shared in Mike Kaganski's blog, it certainly seemed like an overreaction on Microsoft's part, if the account lock was indeed a reaction to his involvement in LibreOffice's development. The problem is, Mike's attempts to discuss any potential unlocks with Microsoft support had been no more effective than if he were talking to a brick wall.

Even after he was able to file a proper ticket, it simply repeated Microsoft's ineffective suggestions to provide a phone number as a verification method—something it already claimed "isn't working right now" and left him with no other options. In fact, Mike had to use his wife's Microsoft account to contact its support team because, of course, it's a mandatory requirement. Not so intuitive.

Thankfully, Mike has since regained access to his Microsoft credentials, but it's certainly soured his impression of the company. I'm not too surprised, considering it took an entire week to recover. It's far too long to go without access to the all-inclusive account that Microsoft so often promotes for Windows 11. "I won’t use some of their services anymore; and I definitely won’t claim their technical expertise as a matter of fact", he shares in the social replies to his original blog post.

So, what is the average Windows user supposed to do to avoid such issues happening to them? It's all about backups, backups, and more backups. Physical backups first, and cloud backups second. Don't get me wrong, I use Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and a wealth of other cloud services for various reasons, but it's all secondary to the collection of digital backups I have stored on external hard drives and USB flash drives.

Of course, backing up your Windows 11 PC and its files only gets you so far, and it won't help you log in to Microsoft's various services if the company blocks the account that they all need in the first place. For that, you'll want to make sure that the password to your Microsoft account is the most secure password you'll ever use.

If a bad actor (hacker) gets access to your Outlook emails and all of your other passwords can be reset from there, then it's essentially game over. Before that, consider more diverse methods for 2FA (two-factor authentication) than emails solely directed to your Outlook account.

Use secure password managers alongside backup email accounts from different providers, and avoid relying on a single cloud service, whether that's a Microsoft account or any other. Naturally, you shouldn't have to worry about any of this if you never violate the Microsoft Services Agreement—but seemingly, neither did Mike Kaganski, so protect your digital identity however you can.

Microsoft has confirmed that it's removing a popular command line that allowed users to bypass connecting to the internet and signing into a Microsoft Account when setting up a new Windows 11 PC.

When Windows 11 version 22H2 launched, Microsoft made it so that both Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro required an internet connection and Microsoft Account during setup, but users quickly discovered workarounds.

The most popular workaround is the command "bypassnro", which when entered into a command prompt while in the Windows setup experience would enable the ability to skip connecting to the internet, therefore bypassing the Microsoft Account requirement.

As noted in the latest Windows 11 preview build, the company is removing the command to "ensure that all users exit setup with internet connectivity and a Microsoft Account."

This change will be controversial among Windows users who don't want to use a Microsoft Account on Windows 11. Going forward, there will be no easy way to bypass this requirement on a new Windows 11 PC.

There are still ways to bypass these requirements, including setting up an unattend.xml installation, which bypasses the setup phase, but this requires a lot more work and includes creating a new Windows installation image from scratch.

Currently, it's also possible to manually re-add the bypassnro command to your system by typing the following into a command prompt: "reg add HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\OOBE /v BypassNRO /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f shutdown /r /t 0"

It's unclear how long this will work, however, as Microsoft may soon remove the registry value that enabled the command to work to fully prevent users from using this method to bypass signing in with a Microsoft Account.

Windows 11 PCs that have already been set up without a Microsoft Account will be unaffected. This change only affects the Windows 11 install and setup experience, where the OS requires an internet connection and a Microsoft Account to progress.

The removal of the bypassnro command is now in testing with the latest Windows 11 beta build, which means it will likely roll out to the production versions of Windows 11 in the coming weeks.

More than a billion Microsoft account users will see the new sign-in experience over the next month. Microsoft already started rolling out the experience to Xbox users, and the updated interface will make its way to Windows, Microsoft 365, and other services soon.

Most Microsoft account users will see the new sign in experience by the end of April, including those on Windows, the web, and mobile devices.

Microsoft's Robin Goldstein announced the update.

"Over the past few years, we’ve modernized the end user experiences for cloud-connected experiences in Windows, Xbox, M365 and more," said Goldstein.

"And, as new authentication methods, like passkeys, became available, we decided to redesign the sign in user experience as well."

The modernized sign in experience is built with Microsoft's Fluent 2 design language, meaning it should fit in on Windows 11 and modern devices. It also has a dark mode, which is a highly requested feature.

But the new experience is more than a facelift. Microsoft remade its account sign in experience to have less clutter and to better present sign in options.

The tech giant has pushed passwordless login for years, and that will be easier with the new sign in page.

The new user interface is optimized for passkeys or other passwordless sign-in methods.

When you first sign in through the new experience, you'll be prompted to add a passkey, though one is not required.

Some Xbox users already have the new sign-in experience. Microsoft started A/B testing it in February.

The updated experience will roll out in waves throughout the rest of this month and April. Microsoft says that roughly 95% of sign in sessions will see the new interface eventually.

Web and mobile apps will get the new experience next, and Windows devices will receive it later down the road.

Microsoft Entra accounts will not see a change in the sign in experience.

File this under S for "Shocking," but it turns out that Forza Horizon 5 has a Microsoft Account requirement on PlayStation 5.

A few weeks ago, we revealed that Forza Horizon 5 was set to be the next Xbox exclusive making the jump to PlayStation, joining Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Age of Empires, Sea of Thieves, and various others. I've detailed how going forward, Xbox console exclusives will be the exception rather than the rule, with even games like Halo and Gears of War set for a PS5 version in the future.

Xbox fans continue to debate what this means for Xbox console hardware (and I should have something on that next week ...), but how can Xbox sustain its hardware and its audience footprint for developers without its own exclusive games? Xbox lead Phil Spencer says he wants Xbox hardware to win on differentiation, with unique features, such as things like Xbox Game Pass and, doubtless, some form of Xbox AI integration next gen. Whether or not that strategy wins out remains to be seen, but one strategy that doubtless will win out is how Xbox is handling games like Forza Horizon 5 on PlayStation 5.

As of writing, Forza Horizon 5 is one of the most pre-ordered games on PS5, as Sony fans line up to take the world's most popular and iconic racing franchise to the next level. Beyond the sheer masses of cash PlayStation fans are about to send to Microsoft, a potentially more intriguing long-term strategy is coalescing for Xbox here.

The Microsoft Account trojan horse

As spotted by our friends (except Nick) at XboxEra, Forza Horizon 5 on PS5 has an Xbox / Microsoft Account requirement. Microsoft's north star with its gaming operation is engagement above all right now, following Tencent's free-to-play heavy model. Forza Horizon 5 is, of course, not the first Xbox game on PlayStation to require a Microsoft Account. Sea of Thieves was one, and other titles like Minecraft Dungeons also lit up additional features by linking an Xbox account.

The thought process here is that, by simple virtue of having a Microsoft account, it should produce a halo effect over Microsoft's engagement goals. Simply having an account functions as a "foot in the door" to other Microsoft services, including Xbox and PC Game Pass, but even over to things like Microsoft Rewards, Bing, Edge, OneDrive, and more. You can expect Microsoft to wield its account requirement as a "trojan horse" of sorts in a bid to truly transform PlayStation into an Xbox with blue branding. The vast majority of users probably already have a Microsoft account anyway, given that Windows 10 and 11 don't exactly make it easy to use without having one.

"Do I need a Microsoft account to play Forza Horizon 5 on PlayStation 5?" the official Forza Horizon 5 FAQ reads, "Yes," it answers. "In addition to a PSN account you’ll need to link to a Microsoft account in order to play Forza Horizon 5 on PS5. This process begins the first time you start up the game on your console." However, despite linking accounts, it seems you won't be able to access your save files from PC or Xbox on PlayStation. The goal here is new users, in essence, rather than simply giving existing users an additional place to play. Although it's plenty likely that Forza Horizon 6 could launch on PS5, Xbox, and Windows PC out of the gate complete with cross-progression.

What's also probably likely is how Microsoft expands its account profiling system across properties it purchased with Activision-Blizzard. It's not a stretch to imagine that, eventually, Battle.net accounts for WoW and Diablo, and Activision accounts for Call of Duty, will eventually merge into Microsoft accounts. Microsoft did the same with Minecraft a few years ago, merging Minecraft accounts more closely into the Microsoft ecosystem.

More accounts under one umbrella creates more opportunities to convert those players into users of other Microsoft services — which underpins Microsoft's high level strategy. Where all of this leaves Xbox's existing hardware platform, though, remains to be seen.

Forza Horizon 5 launches on PlayStation 5 on April 25, 2025 for $70. You can create a Microsoft account for free here, although existing Outlook.com accounts, Onedrive accounts, Office accounts, Windows accounts, or indeed, Xbox accounts, all count as a "Microsoft account" you can use for Forza.

Microsoft is about to make a major change to how sign-ins work within web browsers. Starting February 2025, you will automatically stay signed in to your Microsoft account. This is a significant change from the current behavior, which would sign out automatically after 24 hours.

The change aligns Microsoft more with Google, which already leaves accounts logged in. But that alignment is not necessarily a good thing. Google has been criticized for this behavior, and Microsoft will likely see some pushback.

The change will save some time for those who use Microsoft accounts on personal computers or within any secure environment. However, unless someone knows about the change, the new behavior could also increase security risks surrounding a Microsoft account.

It's good practice to explicitly sign out of your Microsoft account and other accounts after you've finished using a public or shared PC, but there was a built-in failsafe for those who did not sign out. Signing in an account by accident still leaves your details vulnerable for 24 hours, but after that, your account will be signed out automatically.

Alternatively, you can use private browsing. Microsoft recommends that route as a more secure way to use a public or shared PC.

Microsoft almost rolled out the change without a clear and obvious notification to users. A short note on a Microsoft support document highlights the change, but that page is unlikely to be seen by many. But Microsoft has added a notification within Outlook on the web.

Outlook now shows a warning that states, "Your sign-in experience is changing. You'll stay signed in unless you use private browsing or explicitly sign out."

If you leave a browser signed in to your account on a PC or anywhere else, you can sign out of your Microsoft account remotely. This can be done through advanced security options within the Microsoft account security dashboard. Microsoft also has a guide on how to manage devices that use your Microsoft account.

What you need to know

• Since 2021, Microsoft has required users to connect to the internet and link a Microsoft Account when setting up a Windows 11 PC.
• Users have found ways to bypass these requirements, but Microsoft has patched many of them.
• Now, Microsoft has patched what was arguably the most popular bypass which skipped linking a Microsoft Account when typing in a blocked email address.

Windows 11 requires just two things during setup: An internet connection and a Microsoft Account. If you don't have one or the other, you can't use your PC. At least, that's what Microsoft wants you to think. Ever since Windows 11 first debuted in 2021, users have found workarounds to these requirements.

The first discovered bypass involved killing a certain app process in Task Manager when sitting on the internet connection screen, which would take you straight to creating a local account. Microsoft was quick to patch this bypass, and now that method no longer works.

It was later discovered that typing in a blocked Microsoft Account email address and random password would error out the account linking process, and take you straight to creating a local account. This is the bypass that most people have been using, and usually works like a charm. Popular blocked email addresses people use include "no@thankyou.com," "a@a.com", and "example@example.com."

Now, it appears that bypass method has also been patched. When attempting to setup a new Windows 11 24H2 install today, I noticed that this process now loops back on the account linking page. This means it no longer takes you to a local account screen, forcing you to type in a working Microsoft Account email address and password.

This is the method I've always used, as it's convenient to connect to the internet during setup to grab any important updates before reaching the desktop, but without connecting to a Microsoft Account. You can still type OOBE\BYPASSNRO into Command Prompt during the Windows 11 setup experience, which lets you skip connecting to the internet and by extension linking a Microsoft Account. It's just an extra, annoying step that many people likely don't know exists. 

You can set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account by using Shift + F10 during setup to access the Command Prompt, and typing oobe\bypassnro or start ms-cxh:localonly if the first option doesn’t work. For Windows 11 Pro, you can select “Set up for work or school" and use “Domain join instead” without actually needing a domain.

Yes, it's currently difficult to avoid using a Microsoft account, but you can still install Windows 11 with a local account using those methods. In this guide, I'll show you how it works, step-by-step.

During setup, the system strongly pushes you toward using a Microsoft account. This approach has benefits, such as seamless OneDrive and Microsoft 365 integration, automatic syncing across devices, and enhanced security features.

However, many users prefer the simplicity and privacy of a local account. In earlier versions, the operating system allowed users to skip the Microsoft account requirement. But, this option has since been stripped out from both the Home and Pro editions. For a while, users could trick the setup by entering a fake email address to trigger local account creation, but Microsoft eventually blocked that workaround too.

Even so, several methods remain to bypass these restrictions and set up Windows 11 with a local account on both editions of the operating system.

In this how-to guide, I'll explain the different ways to set up a new installation of Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, whether you're reinstalling the operating system or upgrading from Windows 10 before the end of life.

Warning: This process will delete everything on the computer. As a result, it's a good idea to back up your Windows 11 computer.

How to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account with Command Prompt

If you want to use Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, you must proceed with the traditional setup and use one of the available solutions in the out-of-box experience (OOBE).

To start a fresh installation of Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Start the PC with Windows 11 USB flash drive.

• Quick note: You can use these clean installation instructions for Windows 11 if you cannot start the computer from the USB bootable drive.

2. On the prompt, press any key to boot from the device.
3. Click the Next button in the "Windows Setup" interface.

• Quick tip: If your language, time and currency, and keyboard are different from the default selections, select the correct settings before continuing.

4. Click the Next button again.

5. Select the "Install Windows 11" button.
6. Check the agree option.
7. Click the Next button.

8. If this is a reinstallation, click the "I don't have a product key" option to continue. Otherwise, enter the product key if this is your first time installing the operating system.

• Quick tip: You can always complete the installation and then activate the setup using the Settings app.

9. Select the edition of Windows 11 (If applicable).

10. Click the Next button.
11. Select the "Accept" button to continue.
12. Select the partition with the current installation (usually "Drive 0"), and click the Delete button.

• Quick tip: If "Drive 0" has multiple partitions, you must select and delete each partition to allow the setup to use the entire hard drive for the new setup. The setup will create the required partitions automatically during the process. It's also not necessary to delete the partitions on secondary drives.

13. Select the empty drive (Drive 0 Unallocated Space) to proceed with the installation.

14. Click the Next button.
15. Click the Install button.
16. Use the "Shift + F10" keyboard shortcut to open Command Prompt on the first page of the initial setup.
17. Type the following command to disable the internet connection requirement to set up Windows 11 and press Enter: oobe\bypassnro

• Quick note: The command doesn't have any spaces. Also, the computer will restart at this moment.

18. Use the "Shift + F10" keyboard shortcut to open Command Prompt on the Windows 11 setup.
19. Type the following command to drop the network connection and press Enter: ipconfig /release

20. Type the following command to close the Command Prompt and press Enter: exit
21. Select your region to set up the device.

22. Click the Next button.
23. Select your keyboard layout setting.

23. Click the Yes button.
24. Click the Skip button.

26. Click the "I don't have internet" option.

27. Confirm the account name for Windows 11.

29. Click the Next button.
30. Create the account password.

31. Click the Next button.
32. Confirm the account password.
33. Click the Next button.
34. Configure the three security questions in case you have to reset the password.

Quick tip: If you click the "Next" button without setting a password, the computer will sign in automatically, and you won't have to complete the security questions. However, I do have to warn you that setting up a computer without a password is a security risk. If you do this, proceed at your own risk.

35. Click the Next button.
36. Choose your privacy settings.
37. Click the Next button.
38. Click the Next button again.
39. Click the Accept button.

Once you complete the steps, you will be able to set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account. Since you're not using an online account, you won't have to go through the annoying promotional offers to purchase the different services that Microsoft offers.

How to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account with Rufus

To modify the Windows 11 setup to skip the Microsoft account automatically using Rufus, use these steps:

1. Open the Rufus download website.
2. Click the download button for the latest version.
3. Save the file to your computer.
4. Right-click the tool executable and choose the Open option.
5. Connect an 8 GB USB flash drive.

• Quick note: The contents in the flash drive will be deleted.

6. Choose the USB flash drive from the "Device" setting.
7. Click the down-arrow button and choose the Download option.

8. Click the Download button.
9. Choose the Windows 11 option.
10. Click the Continue button.
11. Select the latest release of the operating system.
12. Click the Continue button.
13. Select the Windows 11 Home/Pro/Edu edition.
14. Click the Continue button.
15. Select the installation language.
16. Click the Continue button.
17. Select the x64 architecture option.
18. Click the Download button.

19. Choose the location to store the ISO file.
20. Click the Save button.
21. Continue with the default setting selections.
22. Click the Start button.

19. Clear the default setting selections.
20. Check the "Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account" option.

• Quick tip: You can also check the "Create a local account with username" option an specifying the name of the account to allow the setup to create an account automatically. After the installation, you will have to create a password for the account from the "Sign-in options" page.

21. Click the OK button.
22. Click the OK button again.
23. Restart the computer with the newly created USB flash drive with the setup modified.
24. Continue with the Next button.

26. Click the Next button again.

27. Click the Next button again.

26. Select the "Install Windows 11" button.
27. Check the agree option.
28. Click the Next button.

29. If this is a reinstallation, click the "I don't have a product key" option to continue. Otherwise, enter the product key if this is your first time installing the operating system.

• Quick tip: You can always complete the installation and activate it using the Settings app.

30. Select the edition of Windows 11 (If applicable).

34. Click the Next button.
35. Select the "Accept" button to continue.
36. Select the partition with the current installation (usually "Drive 0"), and click the Delete button.
37. Select the empty drive (Drive 0 Unallocated Space) to proceed with the installation.

38. Click the Next button.
39. Click the Install button.

40. Choose your region setting.

39. Click the Yes button.
40. Choose your keyboard layout.

41. Click the Yes button.
42. Click the Skip button.

39. Continue with the local account creation by choosing a username.

40. Click the Next button.
41. Create a password for the account.

42. Click the Next button.
43. Confirm the password for the account.
44. Click the Next button.
45. Complete the security questions.

42. Click the Next button.
43. Select your privacy settings.

44. Click the Next button.
45. Click the Next button again.
46. Click the Accept button.

After completing the steps, you can use the computer with a local account.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

What you need to know

• Minecraft is the most popular game in the world, and caters to a wide variety of gamers across all ages and groups.
• In South Korea, however, Minecraft has suddenly become an adult-only to many users, thanks to a long-standing local law and Microsoft Account migration.
• Microsoft's Xbox Live accounts have restricted online play to adults 19 and older since the controversial "Cinderella law" was passed.
• Now, the migration from Mojang Accounts to Microsoft Accounts is preventing many children from accessing their favorite game.

Minecraft is one of the most popular games in the world by a wide margin, and is played by hundreds of millions of people every month. In South Korea, Minecraft continues to be a beloved game by plenty of people, but things are getting a little difficult for South Korean children that want to play Minecraft. Microsoft is moving forward with their plan to migrate all Mojang Accounts to Microsoft Accounts, so that all Minecraft versions, even the older Minecraft: Java Edition, are powered by one account.

However, this migration has seemingly clashed with a local South Korean law, according to The Korea Herald (via GamesIndustry.biz).

In 2011, South Korea passed the "Cinderella law," a still-controversial regulation that restricts online gaming for children 16 and younger from midnight to 6 a.m. This combination of required screenings led Microsoft to require all Xbox Live users in South Korea to be 19 and older, rather than setting up dedicated servers for the region. Since the law passed, children in South Korea have continued to play one of the best PC games for kids by using Minecraft: Java Edition and a Mojang Account.

Now children are unable to access even that last bastion of child-friendly gaming, as the migration to Microsoft Accounts has come into effect in South Korea.

The "Cinderella law" in South Korea is quite controversial, especially as studies have shown negligible improvements to how much sleep children are getting per night (the original focus of the law). Still, the law remains, and playing some of the best kids games has become near-impossible thanks to the combination between this law and Microsoft's decision to restrict Xbox Live access. For now, South Korea is the only place where Minecraft is practically labeled as an adult game.

While the law does make things difficult for gaming companies that wish to bring their online games to South Korean children, especially with the added costs of likely needing dedicated servers for the region, this still brings Microsoft's lackluster attempts at localization into light. Xbox users everywhere have banded together to request better localization, an area where Microsoft has historically struggled to deliver. Hopefully, this will be one instance where Microsoft will shirk expectations.

A Microsoft representative told GamesIndustry.biz, "We are proceeding with the global migration of Mojang accounts to Microsoft accounts for Minecraft: Java Edition including for our players in South Korea. We're working on a longer term solution for existing and new players under the age of 19 in South Korea and will have more to share on this later this year."

On Windows 10, the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) is the guided setup process that helps you configure essential settings, such as language preferences, account, and privacy options. While the initial setup is designed to be user-friendly, Microsoft intentionally encourages users to sign in with a Microsoft account rather than a traditional local account.

The primary reason for this push is that a Microsoft account unlocks cloud-based features and seamless integration with the company's services. For example, signing in with this account type enables automatic settings and file synchronization across devices, provides access to device health monitoring, and allows for remote management of passwords and personal information. Additionally, a Microsoft account includes security features like Find My Device, which helps locate a lost or stolen computer.

However, if you prefer a local account for greater privacy, security, or simplicity, you can still set up Windows 10 without a Microsoft account. The option is available, but its location depends on whether you're installing Windows 10 Home or Pro. Knowing where to find it ensures you can complete the setup with an offline account, avoiding the need for Microsoft’s cloud integration.

In this how-to guide, I'll explain the steps to set up Windows 10 with a local account through out-of-box experience.

How to set up local account during Windows 10 Pro setup

To set up a new installation of Windows 10 with a local account, while in the out-of-box experience, use these steps:

1. Select your region.

2. Click the Yes button.
3. Select your keyboard layout.

4. Click the Yes button.
5. Click the Skip button.

• Quick note: If you are not using a wired network connection, you'll have to sign in to the wireless network.

6. Select the "Set up for personal use" option.

7. Click the Next button.
8. Click the Offline account option at the bottom left corner.

9. Click the Limited experience option at the bottom left corner.

10. Confirm the name of the local account.

11. Click the Next button.
12. Create a password for the account.

13. Click the Next button.
14. Confirm the account password.

15. Click the Next button.
16. Create three security questions that will help to reset the Windows 10 account password in case you forget it.

17. Click the Next button after answering each question.
18. Select your privacy settings (and don't forget to scroll down the page to review all the available settings).
19. Click the Accept button.

20. (Optional) Choose how you will be using your computer to allow the system to promote services and apps more accurately. Or click the Skip button (recommended).

21. Click the Not now button (if applicable).

Once you complete the steps, you can start using the device without a Microsoft account.

How to set up local account during Windows 10 Home setup

If you are setting up a new device with the Home edition of Windows 10, the steps will be slightly different since Microsoft has deleted the option from the OOBE setup.

To set up a new device with a local account running Windows 10 Home, use these steps:

1. Select your region.

2. Click the Yes button.
3. Select your keyboard layout.

4. Click the Yes button.
5. Click the Skip button.

• Quick note: After you click the "Skip" button, the system download the available updates, and the account settings will appear.

6. Disconnect the device from the wireless or wired network connection.
7. Click the back button from the top-left corner.

8. Confirm the name of the local account.

9. Click the Next button.
10. Create a password for the account.

11. Click the Next button.
12. Confirm the account password.

13. Click the Next button.
14. Create three security questions that will help to reset the Windows 10 account password in case you forget it.

15. Click the Next button after answering each question.
16. Select your privacy settings (and don't forget to scroll down the page to review all the available settings).
17. Click the Accept button.

18. (Optional) Choose how you will be using your computer to allow the system to promote services and apps more accurately. Or click the Skip button (recommended).

19. Click the Not now button (if applicable).

After you complete the steps, reconnect the computer to the network, and you can now start using the Home edition of Windows 10 with a local account.

More resources

Find in-depth guides, troubleshooting tips, and the latest updates on Windows 11 and 10 here:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

On Windows 10, using a strong password is one of the best ways to secure your account and protect your data from prying eyes and malicious individuals. Usually, once you set a password on your account, you don't have to change it periodically anymore, but you'll still need to update this information if you want to use a new secret phrase, it ever gets compromised, or you simply forget your current password.

Whatever the reason it might be, Windows 10 includes several easy methods to change your password, whether you're using a Microsoft account or a local account.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the different ways to change (or reset) the password of your computer account.

• How to change account password on Windows 10
• How to change local account password on Windows 10
• How to change account PIN on Windows 10
• How to change account picture password on Windows 10
• How to reset password from Sign-in screen on Windows 10
• How to reset local password from Sign-in screen on Windows 10
• How to reset PIN from Sign-in screen on Windows 10

How to change account password on Windows 10

To change your Windows 10 account password, use these steps:

Important: Change the account password connected to a Microsoft account will also change the password of your Microsoft services, including Outlook.com, OneDrive, etc., associated with your account.

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Sign-in options.
4. Under the "Manage how you sign in to your device" section, select the Password option.
5. Click the Change button.

6. Confirm your current password.
7. Create a new password.Quick note: As a security measure, once you change the password, you can no longer set the old password back into your account.

8. Click the Next button.
9. Click the Finish button.

Once you complete the steps, you can start using the password to sign in to your Windows 10 account.

How to change local account password on Windows 10

If you're using a local account, the Settings app allows you to change the password as well as the security answers.

Updating password

To change a local account password, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Sign-in options.
4. Under the "Manage how you sign in to your device" section, select the Password option.
5. Click the Change button.

6. Confirm your current password.

7. Click the Next button.
8. Create a new password.

9. Specify a password hint that won't make it easier for others to guess your secret phrase.
10. Click the Next button.
11. Click the Finish button.

After you complete the steps, the password will change in your local account.

Updating security questions

To update the security questions for a local account, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Sign-in options.
4. Under the "Manage how you sign in to your device" section, select the Password option.
5. Click the Update your security questions option.

6. Confirm your current password.
7. Click the OK button.
8. Select and answer each security question.

9. Click the Finish button.

Once you complete the steps, if you ever need to sign in and you forgot your password, you'll be able to answer the security questions to reset the password and sign in.

How to change account PIN on Windows 10

If you're using a PIN as your Windows 10 account password, you can also change it to something different.

To change a PIN on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Sign-in options.
4. Under the "Manage how you sign in to your device" section, select the Windows Hello PIN option.
5. Click the Change button.

6. Confirm your current PIN.
7. Ceate a new PIN.

8. (Optional) Check the Include letters and symbols option if you want a PIN similar to a password.
9. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, you can start using the new PIN without affecting your Microsoft account password.

How to change account picture password on Windows 10

If you happen to be using a picture password (for example, in your tablet), you can change the picture and gestures using these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Sign-in options.
4. Under the "Manage how you sign in to your device" section, select the Picture Password option.
5. Click the Change button.

6. Type your current account password.
7. Click the OK button.
8. Click the Choose new picture button.Quick tip: If you forgot the gestures, click the Replay button to remember.

9. Select a new image.
10. Click the Open button.
11. Click the Use this picture button.

12. Create the new gestures that you want to use for password twice.

13. Click the Finish button.

Once you complete the steps, the picture password will reset, and you can now start using the gestures to sign in to Windows 10.

If you ever forget the gestures, you can't reset it from the Sign-in screen, but you can click the Sign-in options link to use a different method of authentication.

How to reset password from Sign-in screen on Windows 10

You can also change your account password using the reset option from the Sign-in screen.

To reset a password from the Sign-in screen, use these steps:

1. In the Sign-in screen, click the I forgot my password option.

2. Select the verification option depending on your previous configuration. For example, getting a code on an alternate email account.
3. Confirm the hinted email address.

4. Click the Get code butotn.
5. Check your email account to copy the code.
6. Confirm the code you received.

7. Click the Next button.
8. Create a new password.

9. Click the Next button.

Once you complete the steps, you can now use the new password to access any device connected with the same Microsoft account.

How to reset local password from Sign-in screen on Windows 10

To change the password of a local account from the Sign-in screen, use these steps:

1. In the Sign-in screen, type an incorrect password and press Enter.
2. Click the OK button.
3. Click the Reset password option.

4. Answer the three security questions and press Enter.

5. Create a new password and press Enter.

After you complete the steps, the account password will change, and you'll have access to your desktop again.

How to reset PIN from Sign-in screen on Windows 10

It's recommended to change your PIN using the Settings app, but if it's not working, you can also create a new one from the Sign-in screen.

To reset your PIN from the Sign-in screen, use these steps:

1. In the Sign-in screen, click the I forgot my PIN option.

2. Confirm your Microsoft account password.

3. Click the Sign-in button.
4. Select the verification option depending on your previous configuration. For example, getting a code on an alternate email account.
5. Confirm the email address of the hinted account.

6. Click the Send code button.
7. Check your email account to copy the code.
8. Confirm the code you received.
9. Click the Verify button.

10. Read the warning and click the Continue button.

11. Create new PIN.

12. Click the OK button.

Once you complete the steps, you can start using the new PIN to access your computer. However, you may need to sign in again on certain apps as applicable.

What you need to know

• Microsoft might delete accounts if you don't sign in for two years.
• Several exceptions keep your account marked as "active."
• The policy goes into effect on August 30, 2019.

Microsoft might delete Microsoft accounts if you don't sign in for two years. An updated policy on a Microsoft support site (via MSPU) states that users must keep accounts active, or Microsoft reserves the right to close accounts.

To keep an account active, a user has to sign in at least once every two years. There are also a number of exceptions that keep your account marked as "active:"

• Purchases. If you have used your Microsoft account to purchase, or to redeem or access a purchase of, a current Microsoft product or service, your Microsoft account will remain active and Microsoft will not close your account due to inactivity. Note, this does not apply to gift cards, certifications or subscription-based purchases or services.
• Subscriptions. Your Microsoft account will continue to remain active for so long as you have an active Microsoft subscription associated with your Microsoft account. Following the expiration or termination of the subscription, you must sign in to your Microsoft account at least once in a two-year period to keep your account active.
• Publishing to the Microsoft Store. If you have used your Microsoft account to publish applications or games (including game DLCs) to the Microsoft Store or to register for a Microsoft Partner Center account, your Microsoft account will remain active and Microsoft will not close your account due to inactivity.
• Certifications. If you earn a certification from Microsoft using your Microsoft account, your Microsoft account will remain active and Microsoft will not close your account due to inactivity.
• Account Balance. Your Microsoft account will continue to remain active for so long as you have an unspent balance in your Microsoft account (e.g. from a Microsoft gift card or a credit from Microsoft). If you live in a jurisdiction where gift cards are considered "unclaimed property," Microsoft will, pursuant to local law, escheat the unspent balance associated with your Microsoft gift card.
• Accounts Payable. Your Microsoft account will continue to remain active for so long as there is an amount owed to you by Microsoft associated with your Microsoft account (e.g. amounts due to you from Microsoft Payment Central).
• Family Accounts. If you have an inactive Microsoft account that has granted consent for an active Microsoft account belonging to a minor, Microsoft will not close your Microsoft account due to your inactivity. Your inactive Microsoft account will be kept open by Microsoft until the minor's account (i) is deemed inactive and closed by Microsoft, (ii) is closed by you, or (iii) transitions into a standard Microsoft account when the minor reaches the requisite age of majority in their region.
• Legal Requirements or as otherwise provided by Microsoft. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Microsoft reserves the right to maintain your account status as active, or not to close an inactive account, as required by applicable law or regulation, or as otherwise provided by Microsoft to you.

The list of exceptions is rather long. When combined with the two years required to be marked as inactive, it's unlikely this will happen to someone by accident. Still, it's important for Microsoft to clarify these types of policies. The policy goes into effect on August 30, 2019.

Although Windows 11 (and 10) forces you to use a Microsoft account to set up your computer during the initial setup, you can switch to a local account quite easily. You just need to know where to find the settings.

This approach is based on the company's desire to encourage you to use its online accounts to access the different benefits, such as the ability to sync settings and files across devices and recover their accounts. Microsoft also uses this strategy to lure users into signing up for its services, such as OneDrive and the Microsoft 365 apps. 

You can always set up your computer with a local account using this other guide I wrote. However, if you're already using a Microsoft account, you can switch to a local account regardless of the version of the operating system.

In this how-to guide, I will explain the steps to switch to a local account from a Microsoft account using the Settings app.

How to switch to a local account on Windows 11

To switch from a Microsoft to a local account on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click the Your info page on the right side.

4. Click the "Sign in with a local account instead" option in the "Microsoft account" setting.

5. Click the Next button.

6. Confirm your account credentials.

7. Confirm a username for the local account.
8. Create a password for the account.

9. (Optional) Set up a password hint that can make you remember the password.
10. Click the Next button.
11. Click the "Sign out and finish" button.

After completing the steps, you can sign in to the same account without a connection to Microsoft services.

How to switch to a local account on Windows 10

To switch to a local account from a Microsoft account on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on Your info.
4. Click the "Sign in with a local account instead" option.

5. Click the Next button.

6. Confirm your account credentials.

6. Confirm the new username for the local account.
7. Create a password for the account.

9. (Optional) Set up a password hint that can make you remember the password.
10. Click the Next button.
11. Click the "Sign out and finish" button.

Once you complete these steps, your Windows 10 account will be disconnected from your Microsoft account, and it will switch to the traditional local account style. Using this method, your Microsoft account credentials will continue to be available on the device to sign you into various services as required automatically.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources: 

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Microsoft today announced that it has turned on support for using a FIDO2 security key for signing in to Microsoft accounts. Now, you'll be able to ditch your username and password, instead authenticating with a physical security key to log in to your Microsoft account in Microsoft Edge.

From Microsoft:

You can take advantage of the new feature for your Microsoft account so long as you have a FIDO2 security key from Yubico or Feitian and you're running the Windows 10 October 2018 Update. To get started, you'll want to head to the Microsoft account page and select Security > More security options. Under the "Windows Hello and security keys" section, you can follow Microsoft's instructions for adding a security key to your account.

Companies usually give you a bit of guff when you try deleting an account with them, but Microsoft has relatively few of hoops to jump through to do so. No matter the reason for deleting your account — switching to a new one, moving to a different OS, or just testing things out — the process remains the same. Here's how to do it.

• Things to do before deleting your Microsoft account
• How to completely delete your Microsoft account
• How to retrieve your Microsoft account within 60 days

Things to do before deleting your Microsoft account

Before you completely get rid of a Microsoft account, there might be a few loose ends that need tying up.

1. Cancel subscriptions: If you're subscribing to other services using your Microsoft account ID, cancel those subscriptions now. If not, you won't be able to access those services following deletion.

2. Set up an automated email forward: If you use an email address that ends in hotmail.com, outlook.com, live.com, or msn.com, your emails will no longer be available following the 60-day waiting period for final account deletion. You can manually send out messages, letting people know the account will be deleted, or you can set automated vacation replies.

3. Spend money: Once your Microsoft account is gone, so is all the money associated with it. Before deleting your account, spend any remaining moola on items you can keep after account deletion. Money that will disappear also includes any Skype credit.

4. Save your stuff: While using a Microsoft account, you might have been tempted to store data, like pictures in OneDrive or emails in Outlook. Following account deletion, that data will no longer be accessible if you don't back it up somewhere else that isn't associated with your account. Also, keep in mind that games you've purchased through the Microsoft account will remain playable, but you will lose saved game progress, your Gamerscore, and your Gamertag. If you use an Xbox Music Pass, that music will no longer be accessible.

5. Deal with sub accounts: Child accounts remain open even when you delete your account, but they will need another parent account to give them consent when attempting to log into a PC running Windows 8 or later, a Windows phone, or an Xbox.

6. Turn off reset protection: If you have reset protection enabled on any of your devices, be sure to disable it before deleting your account. If you don't, you might not be able to use the device once the account is deleted.

Remember, if you delete your Microsoft account and realize that something is no longer working, there is a 60-day grace period where you can retrieve your Microsoft account before it is deleted forever.

How to completely delete your Microsoft account

Once you've tied up any loose ends, you can delete your Microsoft account.

1. Navigate to the Close your account page of the Microsoft website.
2. Type the email address associated with your Microsoft account.
3. Click Next.

4. Type your password.
5. Click Sign in.

6. Click Next.
7. Click each checkbox after reading each one and understanding the ramifications of deleting your account.

8. Click the dropdown arrow in the Select a reason field.
9. Click an option.

10. Click Mark account for closure.
11. Click Done.

How to retrieve your Microsoft account within 60 days

If you realize you've made a mistake and you'd like to restore your Microsoft account, you can do so within 60 days.

1. Navigate to the Microsoft login page.
2. Type your username.
3. Click Next.

4. Type your password.
5. Click Sign in.

6. Click Continue — I want to reopen this account. You'll be asked to verify the account with a security question. In this case, we used a secondary email address as a backup.
7. Type the backup email address.

8. Click Send code.
9. Type the code you receive, whether in email or text.

10. Click Next.
11. Click Done.

You can now continue using your Microsoft account as usual.

Updated July 11, 2017: We've refreshed this how-to to ensure you're still getting current information about how to delete your Microsoft account, how to restore your account, and the ramifications behind the action.

Microsoft is making it a touch easier to keep track of the status of your Windows 10 machines at a glance. In a revamp of its online Account Devices page (via OnMSFT), Microsoft now provides more information on various aspects of each PC you're signed into.

Each device listed now shows its update version, along with a time stamp for the last time it checked for updates and when its status last changed. Your Windows Defender status is also shown, making it easy to see at a glance if various security features are on, or if something is wrong. Specs can also be seen, including your processor and graphics card, along with each of your hard drives and how much space is free.

Along with PCs, Xbox consoles and Windows Phones are listed as well. If you need a quick place to check on the status of machines you're signed into, the revamped Account Devices page offers a fairly comprehensive way to check in. Check it out for yourself by heading to account.microsoft.com/devices.

Starting with Windows 8, your Microsoft Account carries a lot of data that Windows uses to personalize and make switching between devices easier. Things such as your wallpaper, accent color, saved passwords, bookmarks and a whole lot more are saved to the Microsoft cloud for syncing between devices whenever you sign into a new Windows PC.

This functionality is still apart of Windows even today with Windows 10, and up until recently users could go and delete that data from the cloud if they wished to do so. The webpage that allowed users to delete sync data from the cloud has been down for several days now, causing problems for many users looking to clear sync data from their Microsoft Account.

This tool was most handy when wanting to reset your Microsoft Account back to defaults, if you didn't want Windows to continue syncing old bookmarks, passwords and wallpapers. I used this tool very often when clean installing Windows, as it meant I could login to my new Windows 10 install without having my Microsoft Account sync a load of data that I didn't want it to.

You can attempt to access the tool at this link. We asked Microsoft what's going on with the tool, and if it would be back. Here's what they said:

So in short, Microsoft hasn't yet told us why the webpage is down, and it's not clear when it'll be back online. We're hoping it'll be back sooner rather than later, as I'm sure many users are gearing up to clean install the Windows 10 Creators Update and would like to be able to start afresh with their Microsoft Account at the same time by deleting sync data from the cloud. We'll update this post once we know more.

If you connect your Microsoft Account to a Microsoft app with two-factor authentication turned on, you'll be able to use an app like Microsoft Authenticator to generate a code to allow you to log in. But, if you're attaching something like your email to a third-party client, or older services not supported by two-factor authentication like your Xbox 360, this might not be possible. You'll need a special password generated by your account security settings to log in.

It's really easy to get one, and here are the steps you need to know.

1. Follow this link to access your Security settings on your Microsoft Account and sign in with your credentials.
2. Under App passwords, click the Create a new app password link.

3. On the app or device make sure to update the password with the new one.

4. Repeat the previous steps to create an app password for each device.

Keep in mind that if you happen to forget the app password, there isn't a way to retrieve it, you'll need to create a new one. If you want to stop using app passwords, simply go back to the Security settings page, and click the Remove existing app passwords link.

That's all there is to it. Now you'll be able to log into any service with your two-factor protected Microsoft account!

More: How to set up two-factor authentication on your Microsoft Account

On the Anniversary Update for Windows 10, Microsoft introduced a lot of new changes and features for PC, including a way to make activation a little easier. Although activating Windows 10 was already a simple process, it wasn't easy to re-activate the operating system after a hardware change.

Starting with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, your product key is no longer only attached to your hardware — you can also link it to your Microsoft account. This new change allows you to re-activate Windows 10 without having to contact Microsoft when you make significant changes to the hardware on your PC, including replacing the motherboard, processor, or hard drive.

Associating a Windows 10 license to a Microsoft account is actually an automated process if you're signing into your PC with a Microsoft account. But if you're using a local user account, you'll need to link your product key with your Microsoft account manually.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the steps to link your product key with a Microsoft account to simplify re-activation.

How to associate your Windows 10 license to a Microsoft account

To make sure that everything works, you need to make sure that Windows 10 is properly activated on your computer, you can easily do this with the following steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Update & security.
3. Click on Activation.

The Activation page should read "Windows is activated with a digital license" (or product key).

Once you know that your copy of Windows 10 is properly activated, you need to add a Microsoft account that you want to remember your product key. However, it's important to remember that this process will change your account type from local to a Microsoft account.

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Accounts.
3. Click on You info.
4. Click the Sign in with your Microsoft account instead link.

5. Complete your sign-in information.
6. Click Sign in.

7. Type your current password.
8. Click Next.

9. Click the Set a PIN button, or the Skip this step link to complete the process.

After you completed the steps mentioned above, you could remove the Microsoft account, but reverting the process will also remove the device from your account, which will undo the association.

You can verify that your digital license is linked to your Microsoft account by using these simple steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Update & security.
3. Click on Activation.

The Activation page should now read "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account". Additionally, you can sign-in to your Microsoft account using your web browser and navigating to the Devices section. If you find your computer listed, it means that the license is linked.

What do you think about the new activation approach to associate your Windows 10 license with your Microsoft account? Tell us in the comments below.

More Windows 10 resources

For more help articles, coverage, and answers on Windows 10, you can visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

Microsoft has announced some pro-active measures to help users of Xbox Live, Skype and its other online service stop using bad passwords.

The Microsoft Account system is the way people sign up to access Xbox Live, Skype, Office 365, OneDrive and other services run by the company. In a blog post, Microsoft stated that the recent leak of over 100 million LinkedIn account details showed that many of their users had bad passwords, such as "password" "12345" and others:

This new setup is now live for all Microsoft Account users. The company says it will stop people from picking a commonly used password or one that is very similar.

We are now just one month away from the launch of Windows 10 on July 29, and Microsoft is getting ready in a number of ways. One of them are some changes to its Family Safety features, which are designed to help parents monitor their children's activities on their home PCs as well as online.

Parents who want to manage their kid's settings will now find they are available on the http://account.microsoft.com/family{.nofollow} website. That's because the company has made the site its one-stop shop for everything related to a customer's Microsoft Account, including how their set up their family settings. For the launch of Windows 10 itself, Microsoft says:

One thing that's been changed immediately is that account users will have to manage their family settings on each PC. Microsoft admits, "We know this may be painful for some of you, but we're doing this to make way for a simpler, better experience: roaming your child's settings with their Microsoft account." The advantage is that parents will be able to get recent activity information from each PC linked to their account. Microsoft says:

Microsoft has also redesigned some of the settings to make them easier to use:

• For web filtering, we reduced the options down to a few crucial ways to keep your kids safe when they're online. We now automatically block adult content in their web browsers, and if your kids are very young, you can allow them to access only specific web sites that you want them to see.
• For apps & games, we've simplified how restrictions are set. You can choose an age setting for them, and based on that, they'll be able to only download apps and games that have been rated appropriate for their age.
• For screen timers, we've taken the complex graphs and settings and simplified them down, while giving you the flexibility to easily control when your kids can use the PC.

Source: Microsoft; Via: Neowin

We’ve had Windows Phone 8.1 for a handful of weeks, but we’re still learning new things all the time. Remember back on Windows Phone 8.0 and below how much of a pain it was to change your primary Microsoft account email? Adding an alias to your account and making it your primary required a hard reset of the phone to add it. That changes in Windows Phone 8.1. Today you can add an alias to your account and make it your primary without needing to change anything! Here’s how.

Hat tip to Johan van Mierlo (@JohanvanMierlo) for reminding us about this feature coming to Windows Phone 8.1! Here’s how you can change/add an alias to your account, make it your primary and not have to do much with your account settings on Windows Phone 8.1.

What’s an alias?

Don’t worry, they’re not super confusing. Your Microsoft account is capable of supporting multiple aliases. These are email addresses that allow you to sign in and use all the various devices and services that use a Microsoft account. Most folks have one email address associated with their Microsoft account and use that to access their Windows Phone, their Xbox console, their Windows 8 PC or tablet and anything else Microsoft-related.

An alias is another email address that you can use to sign into those Microsoft devices. You get the option to add another email address (Gmail, Yahoo mail, etc) as an alias, so long as it’s not already associated with a Microsoft account. There’s also the option to create a new email (outlook.com) address and use it as an alias.

You will then have multiple email addresses (alias) that you can then use to sign into your Microsoft account. This is perfect for those with email addresses like ladyslayer69@hotmail.com to grow up and get a more mature email address associated with their Microsoft account. Maybe something like yourfirstname_yourlastname@outlook.com instead.

Adding an alias

My Microsoft account was created a long time ago when I needed one to play on Xbox Live. I used my personal Gmail account to create that Xbox Live account. Of course your Xbox Live account is really your Microsoft account, so I’ve been rocking a Gmail email address as my primary Microsoft account for a long time. Not anymore, it was time to get something a little more Outlook-y as my primary email address for my Microsoft account. Here’s how you add an alias.

• Go to account.live.com and sign in with your Microsoft account
• Click on ‘alias’ on the left pane
• Click ‘add an alias’
• Select either ‘create a new email address and add it as an alias’ or ‘add an existing email address as a Microsoft account alias’.

It’s really easy to add an alias. Just follow those steps above. Stuck on the part where you get to the page where you’re presented with the option to create a new email through outlook.com or add an existing email as an alias? Don’t fret. When you create a new email address you’re creating a brand new outlook.com email address to use as your alias. Which means someone can’t already be using that account. You’ll get an error message if someone does, but try till you get the address/alias you want.

Unfortunately you can’t merge Microsoft accounts yet. Which is why you’ll get an error message when you try and ‘add an existing email’ that’s already a Microsoft account. You’re more than welcome to add any outside/third-party email address as an alias. Just be ready to verify you actually own that account.

Make your new alias your primary alias

You just created a new alias, odds are you want to use it all the time over your old email address. When you make an alias your primary alias it becomes the email address that appears on your various Microsoft devices. You can still use any alias to sign in to your account, but the primary alias is the email address that you’ll see when you go to the account settings of your various devices.

At this point you can also remove any other aliases from your account. Assuming you have at least two aliases.

That’s it.

That’s seriously it. Now your Windows 8.1 tablet or PC, your Windows Phone 8.1 handset and other devices will automatically switch from one alias to another. Give it sometime, but you’ll head into the account settings of your Windows Phone 8.1 device and you’ll see your new primary alias in place of the old one. No hard reset required!

Via: Mobility Minded

Skype for Windows Phone has been updated to version 2.16, which includes a number of improvements. The major change in this latest release is the removal of Skype usernames for login, previously utilised by consumers before Microsoft began to implement its account system across products and services. Now Windows Phone owners can keep things simple and login through their Microsoft account.

Prior to this update, consumers had a choice of two ways to login to Skype: either by Skype username or Microsoft account. The former could be viewed as redundant, especially if you're using a Windows Phone – chances are you already have a Microsoft account and have it tied to your mobile device.

The Skype team have since removed the ability to sign in with a Skype ID, and instead users are greeted with a welcome splash screen and a button to proceed through Microsoft account login wizard.

What does this mean for consumers? If you already have your Skype and Microsoft accounts linked up and ready to go, simply login once the app has been updated and you're good to go. If you were using your Skype login and wish to connect it with your Microsoft account, hit this link to get started. Once everything is tied up, load up Skype for Windows Phone.

Version 2.16.0.266 didn't just include changes to the login system. The Skype team have also added the feature for users to see when someone is typing. Just like on the Windows 8 client, you'll be able to see when your contact is writing a response to help prevent the conversation form overlapping. The ‘Mark as Read’ option for new messages is also easier to find – you can now find the option in the recents list view.

Lastly, there are general fixes and improvements. We can see why the Microsoft account requirement has come into effect for Windows Phone, and while we welcome the addition of minor features like seeing when someone is typing, the Skype service as a whole leaves much to be desired when used across Windows platforms.

You can grab Skype from the Windows Phone Store. Source: Skype; thanks to everyone who tipped us!

Microsoft had stated that they are "focused on engineering improvements that will further strengthen security," and evidence has begun to take root with a collection of new security features that will be added to existing and new Microsoft accounts. The new features will be rolling out over the next few days and include a new Recent Activity tab, Recovery Codes, and increased security notifications. 

The new Recent Activity tab can be found under your Microsoft Account settings. The new section will show you every instance of your recent activity regarding your accounts. Your Microsoft account crosses a variety of spectrums including your Windows PC, Windows Phone, Outlook.com, SkyDrive, Xbox, and more. When a user signs into your account information will be logged, including the IP address of the sign in, the user's device platform, the user's web browser, and an approximation of their location. 

If you notice a sign in that wasn't you, you can now press the "This wasn't me" button, which will be used to increase your account's security. 

New recovery codes are also available for users who already have (or are thinking about) enabling two-step verification on their account. Two-step verification uses two barriers to protect your account from unwanted logins; they usually include a password and a generated code from an authentication app. The new recovery codes will allow users to save a code as a "spare key" in a situation where their app may not get single or be available. 

Lastly, Microsoft will be adding new security notification options to your account in which you can choose to receive an alert when someone "attempts to take over your account". Users can now add their phone numbers and alternative email address as a point of contact. 

Many of the new additions to security have come from Microsoft listening to user feedback, so as they are saying, "keep the feedback coming - it really helps!". 

Will you be taking advantage of any of the new security features for your account? 

Source: Microsoft

One of the great things about the digital future is the ability to tie your app purchases to your respective account. In the Microsoft ecosystem we get the ability to have up to 5 Windows Phone devices with our app purchases that are tied to our Microsoft Account ID. If you get a sixth device, you’ll need to deactivate one of your previous handsets.

On Windows 8, that 5 device limit was the same as Windows Phone. But Windows 8.1 is going to increase that roam limit quite a bit. How much? A lot.

Right now on Windows 8 you can use your Microsoft account and apps on up to five different devices. It’s easy to approach that limit with all the various tablets, ultrabooks, and desktops you have access to. Especially if you’re into getting new gadgets all the time. Have no fear going forward, because Microsoft is upping your app roaming limits to not 8, 10, or 20 devices, but instead you’ll be able to use up to 81 devices.

That’s insane. Your single Microsoft account can install apps from the Windows Store on up to 81 different devices starting October 9th. We first thought it was a typo and they meant 8, but it looks like 81 is the number of devices you can use with your account. The change comes from feedback from both developers and consumers. This applies for both Windows 8 and Windows 8.1. 

We’d love to see the same increase on Windows Phone. Although, we’re probably in the minority around here when it comes to having a handful of devices at any time. For example, Daniel has something like 14 devices in his house within sight at the moment (and that's just Windows Phone 8). But, we can all agree the Xbox Music device limit is too small. Only four devices can be associated with your Microsoft account for Xbox Music. Lame.

What do you think of the increase in Windows 8.1 app installs across devices? Good? Bad? Neutral? Sound off below.

Source: Windows App Builder Blog

About a week ago Microsoft made your account more secure. If you use any Microsoft service or product you own a Microsoft Account. You use that account to sign into your Windows Phone to download apps and track the phone if you ever lose it. On Xbox it’s associated with your Gamertag and allows you to carry your profile from Xbox to Xbox and keep your Gamerscore and Achievements synced. On Windows 8 it allows your settings and wallpapers’ to sync across your laptop, desktop, and tablets.

If you’re in anyway shape or form using a Microsoft product you need to enable two-step verification to keep your account secure. Here’s how to set it up.

Why two-step verification?

The first thing you’re probably asking yourself is why do I need two-step verification? Short answer? You have one account that connects you to a variety of services and products, it’s too important to not do everything you can to protect that account.

Right now you have your email address and password keeping your digital world safe. Two-step verification works by adding another step in the mix to gain access to your account when you login. In addition to your password you’ll be using a code. That code is generated in a variety of ways, either through email, an SMS message, phone call, or authenticator application. It’s an extra layer of protection and totally worth it if you value what your Microsoft account has access to.

Let’s set up two-step verification for your Microsoft Account

1. Head on over to account.live.com to get started. Under ‘Overview’ on the left side, click on ‘Security info’.
2. Make sure you’ve added your cell phone number under ‘Phone number’. If you haven’t add it and follow the prompts.
3. Under ‘Two-step verification’ click on ‘Set up’. Next we’ll be following the on screen prompts to set it up. Have your Windows Phone nearby to receive your verification code.
4. Enter the code that was just sent to you.
5. That’s it. You’ve turned on two-step verification.

Authenticator app

Now that you’ve turned on two-step verification your account is secure. Every time you try to log into a service that uses your Microsoft Account, like accessing your SkyDrive through the browser, you’ll need to enter a code in addition to your password. Usually you’ll have your smartphone with you and can opt to receive that code with your via text. But what if you’re on a plane or subway with no cell service? Download an authenticator app, like this one for Windows Phone to generate those codes.

Under ‘Security info’ you’ll see a section called ‘Authenticator app’, here’s where we’ll pair the authenticator app you just downloaded with your Microsoft account. The screenshot below shows you what you’ll see when pairing the app. In my personal experience I had to hold the phone a little further from the computer screen with this app compared to others. Once you’ve scanned you’ll be given a code that you’ll enter to pair. Those codes will show up on your screen for a short time, so don’t waste time in entering them. If you miss it, just wait for another code to generate on the screen.

The really cool thing about the Authenticator app from Microsoft is that you can use it with other services that allow two-step verification. Some reviewers in the Store note that the app works with Dropbox, Facebook, and Google. Although for the last two you’ll need to directly enter a code to pair as opposed to using a QR code.

App passwords

Some services and products that require a Microsoft account have may not support two-step verification just yet. For example, your Xbox 360 and Windows Phone. So what do you do? Generate an app password for the devices.

When you launch your Xbox 360 and want to download your profile or don’t have the password saved to the device you’ll need to head make sure you have your laptop nearby. Again, login to account.live.com and go to ‘Security info’ and scroll down to ‘App passwords’. Click ‘Create a new app password’. You’ll then be given a bunch of random letters that you enter into your Xbox in place of your regular Microsoft account password (even though the Xbox dashboard is asking for your ‘Microsoft account password’).

App passwords will work when the device or service doesn’t support two-step verification. What about your Windows Phone? I reset my Lumia 620 to see what would happen with it after enabling two-step verification for my Microsoft account. Guess what? My normal Microsoft account password wouldn’t work. After creating an app password like detailed above I was able to put my Microsoft account onto the newly reset Lumia 620. My daily driver, the Lumia 920, hasn’t had account syncing problems the past few weeks, but I had a buddy enable two-step for his account. Sure enough, on his HTC 8X he had to update his Microsoft account password to one generated by the ‘app password’.

TL;DR

First off, you don’t be lazy, go up and read this. But if you’re short on time…

• Enable two-step verification for your Microsoft account for increased security
• Two-step verification works by requiring a code to be entered in addition to your password
• Codes are generated by either text, call, email, or an authentication app
• Some devices, like your Windows Phone or Xbox, don’t support it yet. You’ll need an app password in place of your regular password for your Microsoft account
• Generate app passwords on account.live.com

This is a lot to take in, but overall things should go smoothly. If you do run into any problems sound off below with questions and the Windows Phone community (you and other commenters) will do the best to help you out.

As well as launching two-step authentication for Microsoft accounts, the company has also refreshed Outlook.com with some new features. First up is the ability to log in on Outlook using an email alias that's present on the account. Previously, the only option was the permanently rename the account, which caused many issues for Windows Phone owners, but this move will help allow consumers to chop and change aliases as they please.

It's now possible to sign in with any alias and more convenient to manage multiple aliases. More advice on when consumers should add another in favour of renaming the primary alias and vice versa is available. Simply head on over and begin managing aliases (https://account.live.com/names/Manage) and you're good to go - note you'll have to wait until the update hits your Microsoft account.

The above screenshot shows the aliases management on a Microsoft Account. In addition to the implemented sign in options, the Outlook team has also added 32 new @Outlook email address domains. Now consumers can create even more strange and wonderful email accounts. If you're looking to have an Outlook address that's unique to your country (example: @outlook.co.uk for the UK) then this will definitely be of use.

Again, you'll have to wait until your Microsoft Account is updated within the rollout before any of this is possible, so remain patient if you're not yet able to set one up. Here's a chart of all the new email domains available:

Wrapping up the blog post, it's urged that consumers help Microsoft clamp down on the "Don't open my email as I've been hacked!" business that plagues numerous users. Using two-step authentication, and recommending friends and family to also set up the security measure can both help keep emails and the account secure.

Be sure to check out our previous coverage for more information on two-step authentication.

Source: Outlook Blog

Microsoft has announced on its official blog that a major upgrade will be rolled out for its account system, including optional two-step verification. We've lightly touched on this added layer of security recently, as well as looking at the Authenticator app that's available for Windows Phone.

The Microsoft Account is the backbone for all platforms the company developers, including Outlook.com, Windows and Windows Phone. We've gone into some detail about the account and why it's certainly worth the time creating one. This added security will help provide peace of mind to those who have fears about using simple passwords.

Consumers can choose to enrol in the optional upgrade, which will protect the entire account with two-step verification, regardless of what service or device is currently being used. Here's how you can get started:

1. Head on over to https://account.live.com/proofs/Manage (note you'll have to wait until your account supports the new authentication before the option is available) and set up two-step authentication.
2. Download the Authenticator app for Windows Phone and pair it with the Microsoft Account. You're pretty much good to go once it's activated.

If you're familiar with the Gmail setup, the Authenticator app basically acts as the passcode generator. This is much more efficient than delivery via SMS, particularly if you're in a location with terrible coverage or abroad. Some services and devices don't directly support the verification (including Xbox and setting up email on a smartphone), but help is at hand to get set up correctly.

On devices used regularly, consumers can select an option to not ask for security codes, making the verification almost painless. A code is used once and is subsequently remembered, unless the device isn't used for 60 days. After that period, a code will need to be entered again.

The only issue with the new two-step verification is that details must be kept up-to-date. If you change your number or email, be sure to amend the account before using the new identities. Do note that should you know your password but lose access to the secondary security proof, the only option is to go through a recovery process that enforces a 30 day wait before access can be regained. If you forget both, you're pretty much done for unfortunately.

Be sure to check out your Microsoft Account for more information as the verification measure rolls out. You can download the Authenticator app from the Windows Phone Store for use when Microsoft rolls out the update to you. See the official blog post for more details.

Source: Microsoft Blog

Two-step authentication, the process whereby you use more than just a password to verify an account, is increasingly an important security tool desired by not just enterprise but consumers. Google has had with Gmail for a few years now, and Microsoft is on the cusp of releasing their version as well.

LiveSide.net is reporting that the service will be integrated into existing Microsoft Accounts (Outlook.com, Hotmail, etc.) though those with linked accounts may have to un-link and the re-link them to get it to work.

Interestingly, the app for this feature is already on the Store for all Windows Phone devices (7.x and 8), and it will serve as the conduit to generate these codes. For those who use Gmail, you may be used to having “verification codes” texted to you, which can be problematic if traveling or switching SIMs (Google does provide fallbacks though). With the Authenticator app, once linked to your account you will be able to generate security codes for account access which will then be verified for by Microsoft before you can login from a non-trusted PC.

The whole system seems quite easy to use (once it goes live), and it should bring Microsoft up to speed with those who demand more in security than a simple password.

You can download the Authenticator app for Windows Phone here, though without the corresponding service enabled by Microsoft on your Account, it’s of little use at the moment.

Source: LiveSide.net

Microsoft has previously confirmed it was looking to introduce Sina Weibo connectivity to China for use with its platforms. The micro-blogging service is a must-have for the array of products the company now has on offer. With popular social networks already available through Microsoft Accounts, it's only right that Chinese consumers be able to achieve the same level of integration.

It's an important step for Microsoft to take as consumers that reside in China (who don't have Twitter access) can now connect with other users through Sina Weibo. The switch being turned on is also part of the SkyDrive update this morning, which now also sports integration with the Chinese social network.

Once connected to a Microsoft Account, the Sina Weibo service will enable the following functionality on supported Microsoft products:

• Synchronise Sina Weibo contacts on Windows Phone, Windows 8 and Outlook.com (in the respective address book app / section)
• Ability to view (as well as publish) status updates from synchronised contacts on Windows Phone and Windows 8
• SkyDrive update enables users to share links to Sina Weibo followers

LiveSide reports the rollout appears to be gradual as not all connectivity is presently available. While SkyDrive and contact synchronisation is ready to utilise, Windows Phone doesn't seem able to connect to the service and throws an "Attention required" error.

We've previously looked at the social network being found on a ZTE Windows Phone back in 2011 (as an app), which was then confirmed by Microsoft that the company was indeed bringing full service integration to its mobile platform. This will replace the lack of Facebook and Twitter found on localised devices.

It's a step in the right direction and shows Microsoft is serious about improving its platform in the Asian market, or other locations where popular Internet-based services aren't available. You can connect your Microsoft Account to Sina Weibo by heading to this Live link.

Source: LiveSide

So you’re currently looking forward to receiving / purchasing your Windows Phone 8 handset, or have just unboxed the device, but what’s to take in before getting started? While Microsoft services are recommended over competitors to further enhance the experience and overall functionality available, they're not a requirement.

You don’t have to go all out Windows should you choose not to. In fact, Microsoft has made it so you can continue residing in an competitor dominated home while being able to make the most of what Windows Phone has to offer. So what are the Microsoft equivalents of what you may already be using on a daily basis?

The services we speak in this article are not mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended you have a Microsoft Account set up and ready to go. Creating one is super easy and you’re more than likely already in possession of an active profile. Have a Live ID or play Xbox LIVE? Sweet, you’re already good to go. If not, head on over to the signup pages - more on this below. 

Why get a Microsoft Account?

Here are some reasons why it's a wise decision to set up an account with your Windows Phone:

• Secure your Windows Phone with automated backups and location-based measures (Find My Phone).
• Enable Xbox LIVE, Xbox Music (free trial available) and Messenger.
• Receive and send emails using Outlook.com (or Hotmail).
• Synchronise your Windows Phone (and its content) with a Windows 8 PC.
• Make use of SkyDrive and the generous free storage quota.
• Purchase and download apps and games from the Windows Phone Store.
• Integrating Twitter and Linked In into the People Hub.
• Receive personal results in Local Scout, Music + Videos and the Windows Phone Store.
• Automatically synchronise contacts with Hotmail / Outlook.

A Microsoft Account is a consumer's key to access services and products offered by the company. From Xbox Music to Outlook and the Windows 8 Store, it's further being integrated into Windows with the latest version of the desktop enabling support for Microsoft Account for user management and device personalisation. 

Coming from an iPhone/iOS or Android?

Here are some Microsoft counterparts to services you may be used to with competitor hardware:

• Internet Explorer - Safari, Chrome, Opera.
• Microsoft Office - Pages / Numbers, Google Docs.
• Bing - Google Search.
• Xbox - Apple Game Center. 
• Outlook - Gmail, Yahoo!.
• Skype - BBM, iMessage, Google Talk.
• SkyDrive - iCloud, Google Drive.
• Windows Phone Store - Google Play, BlackBerry App World, Apple App Store.

After you've created your Microsoft Account, or located login details for an existing profile, it's time to add it to your new Windows Phone. This is a simple process than can be completed through the initial stages of configuration. When setting up a new Windows Phone, one will be greeted by a login (or registration) for Microsoft Account. 

Creating the account & setting it all up

While we touched on services available to those who already have a Microsoft Account, you may find yourself in a position where you'll need to create one. Doing so is extremely simple, easy, and only takes two moments.

1. Creating an Account - There are two ways to create an account, both lead to different results for usernames. Heading on over to live.com (www.live.com) will enable you to create a @hotmail or @live email address, whereas outlook.com (www.outlook.com) is the place for @outlook email IDs. If you sign up for a Live ID / Hotmail email address, it is possible to create an Outlook alias as well.

When on either website, hit the "sign up now" link under the login form. Here you'll be presented with a form to fill in, including personal details, as well as what ID you'd like to use when logging into Microsoft services. "I'd like to use my own email address!" - we'll get to that shortly, head on over to 1.b if you're interested in using your own third-party address. 

1.b Using your own email address - It's possible to use your own email address, someone@awesome.com as an example. This will replace the Live ID you've created, while Outlook addresses can be used as an alias for the main email account - emails can then be sent from Outlook.com, but using a different email address. Once you've created a Microsoft Account (with the @hotmail, @live or @outlook extensions), you can head to the control panel by clicking your profile photo in the top right-hand corner, then select 'Account Settings'

Account details will be present on-screen with the option to "update email address" under the account ID. Hit this link and you'll be presented with the same screen as shown above. Be sure to select "Use a different address" and then type in your externally hosted email ID.

Note that you will want to do this before setting up your Windows Phone. If you change your Microsoft Account ID after your Windows Phone is configured with the old ID, services including SkyDrive, Xbox LIVE and the Windows Phone Store will cease to function until the device is reset and the updated account information is entered.

2. Setting up on the phone - It's strongly advised an account is set up during this stage for previously stored backup to be applied and loaded (if you've used Windows Phone before), but do note that you cannot change the Microsoft Account on the handset. To be able to use a new profile on your Windows Phone, you will need to perform a hard reset (Settings > About > Reset), which will wipe the device clean and start fresh.

When setting up your new Windows Phone, it'll ask you to login to your Microsoft Account, do so. Once the Windows Phone has completed installing apps, your contacts, mail (should you wish to use the Microsoft Account for email) and other content will be loaded on the device. The Windows Phone Store will be accessible and apps may be downloaded (should a credit card be present on the account - see below step, cards can be added when attempting to buy apps and games from the Store).

3. Billing - You can ensure billing information is all correct for use in the Windows Phone Store by checking account information on Microsoft's website. You can remove / view credit cards by heading to the Account CP (again, select your name / photo in the top right) and select Billing in the sidebar (when logged into your Microsoft Account. 

This is where your subscriptions (Xbox LIVE, Xbox Music, etc.) can be manipulated, as well as payment gateways on your account. We'll be heading into "payment options" in this step, which is where all cards attached to the account can be viewed. If you have your card set up and good to go, then perfect, you're all set and ready to purchase apps and games for your Windows Phone.

If not, have no fear as you can buy apps and games from the Store, which will prompt you to add a new payment option on your device (see below). It's worth checking this billing section of your account often to see what's being purchased, as well as the status of subscriptions. Note that with Kid's Corner, this feature blocks access to cards attached to the account, so the kids wont be able to purchase a hundred games.

Wrapping it up

With your payment options configured, you're good to go and purchase content from the Store (with over 100,000 apps, there's something for everyone). If you're thinking about going over to Windows 8 at some point in the future, you'll login using your Microsoft Account and all settings will already be configured for use (with credit cards on record for use in the Windows Store, etc.).

Xbox Music and Xbox LIVE will both automatically configure settings to personalise the experience (check the billing section of the account to view status of subscriptions). If you have playlists and a music collection with Xbox Music, it'll be accessible on the phone, likewise with Xbox LIVE with Avatar, friends and gamerscore.

Windows Phone comes with a Microsoft Office suite as standard with a OneNote Mobile app available on the Windows Phone Store. The Office Hub will pull all documents down from the cloud (as well as recent documents), while OneNote will synchronise all stored notes with the Microsoft Account on app launch.

If you wish to use your Microsoft Account as an email account, this is possible through both Hotmail and Outlook, but it isn't mandatory - handy if you use an external provider. It's a useful gateway to the realm of Microsoft and the company has done a superb job at not restricting use due to owning competitor products.

As mentioned at the beginning of this walkthrough, you can continue to use third-party services, such as Gmail and more. App solutions and internal integration are both available. Keep an eye out for more tutorials and guides to help ease you into the world of Windows Phone.

Online ads can be annoying and it appears Microsoft is working on a way to focus these ads more towards your likes and away from your dislikes. We ran across the Microsoft Personal Data Dashboard that will let you filter out the unwanted ads and let those you might be interested in through.  These filters will likely impact ads you see over on Outlook.com and on your Windows Phone.  

The Dashboard has several sections or tabs with the main tab reflecting your Windows Live Profile. Additional sections include: 

My Data: Here is where you can tag your interests and dislikes from a wide variety of topics. You can also narrow down your likes and dislikes to the brand names of products.

The My Data page also lets you view your Bing search history and any Microsoft Newsletters you are currently subscribed to.

My Choices: This page lets you make choices on how Microsoft uses your data. Presently you have options to turn on/off Microsoft Advertising and Microsoft Email Communications. When turned off, you'll still get the ads but your personalized choices won't kick in.

More Services: This is a listing of additional services from Microsoft that may store and use your personal information. In clicking on one of the links, you can manage how these services use that information.

The Microsoft Personal Data Dashboard is a Beta program and in tinkering with it just for a short bit, not all of the fields are active.  And with those fields that are active, there seems to be some limits as to what you can enter. For example, I can dislike Financial Institutions but I can't dislike cats. I can like computers but I can't like Windows Phones.

It will be interesting to watch how the Dashboard develops and it's nice to see Microsoft giving us a few options on what ad content shows up in our daily life. I think it will be nice to add not only topics of interest but brand names to my dislike list and not have to worry about seeing those type ads again.

You can find the Microsoft Personal Dashboard here and keep in mind it's a Beta so not everything is up to snuff.

Thanks, John N., for the tip!

Images from the Windows Phone 8 SDK show off updated Office, SMS backup

It’s still technically the same day as the leak of the Windows Phone 8 SDK and now some images are showing up online showcasing some new features of the updated OS (we’re visiting Canada and don’t have access to our Win 8 machine to run the SDK ourselves). The images come via WP7.Hu who has thrown no less than 30 images up on their site.

Images are stronger than words so we’ll keep this one brief. These images show of various new or updates features in Windows Phone 8 which consumers will be more than glad to gander. Here’s what is displayed after the break (and above):

• Text message backup to SkyDrive
• Office 2013 for Windows Phone
• Photo options
• New Accent colors
• Lock screen options
• Phone storage (+ SD card support)
• App list + setting backup feature
• Microsoft Account
• Voice Command options
• Xbox Music

Needless to say, it’s a lot so head past the break to see it all in its glory. Make sure to "click to enlarge" to get a better look. Thanks, xajuan, for the tip

Windows Phone 8 Accents and Lock Screen options

Phone options, SD storage, app backup and languages

Microsoft Account, Voice Command options

Microsoft Wallet, Microsoft Music

Make sure you read up on the rest of our coverage of the leaked Windows Phone 8 SDK:

• Windows Phone 8 to feature developer access to Voice Command features
• Windows Phone 8 to feature expanded Bluetooth functionality, access to stack and transfer
• Windows Phone 8 SDK Preview: Application platform overview and Windows 8 APIs
• Windows Phone 8 - Photo Apps now able to auto upload in background
• Windows Phone 8 allows Lock-screen notifications and wallpaper for 3rd party apps
• Windows Phone 8 bringing Lenses feature to expand camera functionality
• Auto Launching Apps now possible using file associations for Windows Phone 8
• New Map Features in Windows Phone 8
• More Windows Phone 8 dev features revealed - background location, video codecs and more

As a reminder, Microsoft in its continued quest to find the perfect name is rebranding its Live services this year. Yes, Live ID is going to Microsoft Account and that's after it had already used previous titles like Microsoft Wallet, Microsoft Passport, .NET Passport and Microsoft Passport Network. Phew.

When Live ID finally goes away and Hotmail, etc. get the re-launch is anyone's guess as well as what email address Microsoft will be offering. But for now, you can navigate to https://commerce.microsoft.com and take a gander.

The new Microsoft Account management screen is clean and simple

Logging in brings you to an all new account overview page where you can manage your services, payment options, subscriptions and view your transactions. Our verdict? It's nice. Simple, to the point and easy to make sense out of so kudos to Microsoft for the stripped down look.

Is this game changing? No...definitely not. But it's kind of interesting to see where Microsoft is going with this services revamp. Thanks, Joshua, for the tip

Microsoft has altered the text displayed when tweeting from Windows Phones. Instead of displaying "via Windows Live", which is what we've become accustomed to with integration on the mobile platform running through the Live ID (soon to be 'Microsoft Account'), any tweets published from a Windows Phone will now display "via Microsoft".

This is another step in the withdrawal of the Live branding in favour of Microsoft and Windows. We've previously looked at how the software giant is rebranding products with the upcoming launch of Windows 8. While information has come to light surrounding previous Windows Live essential services, little has come to light about the new music service as-of-yet. 

via: Metro Powered