to?

Download your YouTube videos in their original format

Uploading a YouTube video causes it to be converted to the format used for streaming by the service. If you ever lose your videos, you could always grab the converted versions from the YouTube site, but what if you want the originals?

Google Takeout is now offering the ability to download the original versions of your videos, as mentioned by the Google Data Liberation blog. Takeout allows you to export data like settings, groups, or photos from Google's other Web sites and services.

Unfortunately, you can only download all videos together at this time. There's no option to … Read more

Reserve game or movie rentals with Redbox for Android

In the past, it was easier to load the Redbox Web site and reserve copies of movies or games there. The reserve feature is especially useful in heavily populated cities, where something might be gone by the time you make your way to the physical Redbox. With access to this same functionality on your mobile device, you can easily reserve a rental during (provided you're not driving!) or before your commute home from work or school.

Grab a copy of the new Redbox app for your mobile Android device. You will need Internet connectivity to use the … Read more

View Google Play Store reviews by device or version

The Android style guide was updated to include Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean Holo theme variations, and this is (thankfully) causing many apps to update their user interfaces. Change is good -- well, most of the time -- but what if you want to take a look at reviews that are only pertinent to your device? Or maybe you're only interested in opinions about the latest version? That's why the Google Play Store has filtering options, even though they're kind of hidden.

Here's how to access them:

Step 1: Pull up an app … Read more

Sell your e-books for free with Payhip

So you're a writer, huh? Well, now it's time to turn those writings into sweet cash. Unfortunately, most places online that let you sell your e-books also want to take a nice cut of your profits. That's understandable, though, right? They need to make money, too. However, if you're just getting started, a little off the top here and there can add up to the chunk of the profits you need to move your writing career forward.

Instead of fussing with other sites, why not check out Payhip? This site offers a free and easy way … Read more

Apple applies for another facial unlock patent for iOS devices

Your face is once again the subject of a patent Apple has filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

The technology described in the patent, which was discovered by Patently Apple and AppleInsider, isn't all that different from one that surfaced from the iPhone maker in December, which described a method for users to lock and unlock their handsets with their face. However, the latest technology uses the front-facing camera on a mobile device to determine whether to lock or unlock the product.

According to Patently Apple, the front-facing camera takes rapid snapshots that then translate into … Read more

How to use your Android as a Webcam

Webcams are useful for chatting with family, colleagues, or even a client. However, if you want a Webcam right now and don't have an extra $40 to $80 laying around for one, why not use your Android device instead?

You won't need to worry about having a front-facing camera on your device, since this method will employ the use of the rear camera. Though, if you'd like, you can use the front camera if the back one isn't functioning properly (or if you enjoy lower-resolution video?).

Using your Android device as a Webcam will do some … Read more

Use TV Show Favs for Android to keep tabs on each episode

With TV shows going on hiatus or getting a late renewal for the next season, it's hard to keep track of when one of your favorites will be on. A while back I covered how to add TV show listings to your Google Calendar, with the help of TVRage.com listings. However, if you're looking to track shows without too much extra work, and you have an Android device, then the TV Show Favs app will do the trick.

Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Download a copy of TV Show Favs and tap the Create … Read more

Episode 13: the Nexus 7 tablet is a delicate flower

In the Season 2 premiere of Always On, the Google Nexus 7 takes a beating. Well, it wouldn't be fair to say it takes a beating. It receives a beating, and frankly, doesn't handle it very well. It's one of our more dramatic Torture Tests, and I think it points out that sometimes, you do get what you pay for when it comes to quality and durability. The Nexus 7 is a great tablet in many respects but, well. It's not the toughest little thing. You'll see what I mean.

We'll find out in … Read more

Home networking explained, Part 3: Taking control of your wires

Editors' note: This post is part of an ongoing series. For the other parts, check out the related stories.

Now that you have learned about the basics of home networking in Part 1, and how to optimize your Wi-Fi in Part 2, in Part 3, it's time to get your hands dirty and learn how to take control of your network completely.

All home networks start with a network cable. Even if you plan on using all wireless clients, in most cases you will still need at least one cable to connect the wireless router and the broadband modem. … Read more

How to use Facebook photos for Android contacts

Depending on which version of Android you're running, there might be a Bugdroid or gender-neutral silhouette that appears for each contact that is missing a custom photo. While seeing these instead of a contact's photo isn't too big of a deal, it's always nice to see the faces of your family and friends that are calling you. This is especially useful if you're at a location where the volume of your device needs to be turned off and you can see who is calling with just a quick glance.

While this method is a bit … Read more