Last Week’s 10 Biggest Posts

Windows 8 finally arrived last week. We looked at the new operating system’s best shortcuts, tricks, apps and features, along with the new iPad Mini. Kick off your Monday by checking out the 10 most popular posts from Lifehacker Australia last week.

1. Windows 8: The Lifehacker Guide
   After more than a year in development, Windows 8 finally goes on sale today. It’s a major shift for Microsoft, and one that will eventually impact the majority of PC owners, as well as signalling Microsoft’s full-blown launch into the tablet space. Check out our comprehensive Windows 8 coverage below, and don’t miss our live blog from the world-first Australian launch.
2. How To Prepare Your Computer For Windows 8
   Windows 8 has arrived. If you’re thinking of upgrading, here’s what you should do to prepare.
3. Use This Trick To Speak To Friends At Loud Concerts Without ShoutingTalking to someone during a live gig is not recommended, lest you want to end the night with a sore throat and a hoarse voice. But you’re out, enjoying yourself and socialising is not only desirable, but inevitable. What if it were possible to avoid the aching vocal cords, yet still get the message across?
4. iPad Buyer’s Remorse Is Your Fault
   Feeling bitter because you purchased a shiny “new” iPad back in March and there’s a refreshed model due at the beginning of November? You have no-one to blame but yourself.
5. The Five Biggest Media Centre Annoyances (And How To Fix Them)
   The best thing about owning a media centre is that you’re in control and can watch whatever you want at a time that suits you. Unfortunately, you also end up with the hassle of troubleshooting your system when plug-ins break, files won’t play, and nothing seems to work properly. Here’s how to take an home theatre PC (HTPC) that’s driving you crazy and whip it back into shape so you can enjoy the show.
6. Top 10 Secret Features In Windows 8
   Windows 8 is full of awesome features and handy shortcuts, but what you may not know is that it’s got a lot of handy, lesser-known settings under the hood. Here are 10 of Windows 8′s best kept secrets.
7. The Best Windows 8 Shortcuts And Tricks
   Windows 8 sports a radical new interface, designed for both touch-enabled devices and the more traditional keyboard/mice combination. Like any new system, it takes time to learn and adapt to the new options, as well as find the more familiar Windows features. These are our top Windows 8 shortcuts and tips for getting around.
8. What Australians Will Pay For The iPad Mini
   Pre-orders for Apple’s new 7.9-inch iPad Mini in Australia start from this Friday (October 26), but when you get the device and how much you pay depends on what you order. Here’s what you need to know.
9. The Best New Apps In The Windows 8 Store
   Once you have Windows 8 up and running, the first thing you’ll want to do is start installing apps. Microsoft’s new Windows 8 store has some real treasures worth downloading. These are our top picks.
10. Five Best Text Messaging Alternatives
    The text message is far from dead, but smartphone apps that let you chat with others (whether via text, video or voice) without charging you for every single message are increasingly popular. We’ve rounded up five of the most popular choices.