BETTER SEARCHES WITH WINDOWS 8.1

We love the new search function in Windows 8.1. Click the “Start” button and type the name of a country. “Morocco,” for example. You’ll see a list of any files that mention Morocco. (On Joy’s computer, Bob’s bio came up, since he went on an archaeological dig there.) You also get a map and basic stats about the country, such as its population and GDP. Slide to the right to see links to videos, tourist information and other links. We typed “England,” and got main attractions, tours, pictures, history and — rather oddly — some apps for New England Patriots fans. (The computer just latches on to key words.)

Read more