Windows Phone Daily

Deal: Nokia Purity headset and several Windows 8 machines on sale from the Microsoft Store this weekend

2013-05-24T16:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend is a holiday weekend in the United States for Memorial Day, and that often leads to some big sales. The Microsoft Store is joining that tradition, offering up a pretty big sale of several enticing goods through next Monday, May 27th.

For Windows Phone users, the headline deal is definitely Nokia's Purity by Monster on-ear headset. Not to be confused with the wireless Purity Pro, these wired on-ear headsets are still quite robust featuring high quality audio, an attractive design that folds for portability and comes in multiple colors, inline controls to manage volume, and a built-in microphone for answer phone calls. Normally $199.99, the Microsoft Store is selling the headsets for $99.99 in black, white, cyan, and magenta (for comparison Amazon only sells the black model for the same price, while the colored variants are more costly).

That's not the only good deal to be had, especially if you've been hunting around for a new Windows 8 machine. The best deal to get is HP's detachable tablet/laptop, the Envy x2, for an alluring $599 (about $50 cheaper than Amazon). Samsung's ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T is a worthy runner-up at $999 (about $99 cheaper than Amazon).

It's a good sale (and we haven't even mentioned some of the good Xbox 360 game discounts), so check out the full selection here.

Source: Microsoft Store

HERE Maps for all Windows Phone 8 devices updated with LiveSight augmented reality feature

2013-05-24T14:50:00.001-07:00

Nokia's pride and joy, besides its Lumia lineup of course, has been its suite of innovative and genuinely useful HERE location apps. Windows Phone 8 users have been enjoying Nokia's services for a few months, and now a significant new feature has been added to HERE Maps: the augmented reality LiveSight viewfinder.

For those who missed it, Nokia announced earlier this year at MWC that HERE Maps would be adding support for the company's new LiveSight technology. The feature, similar to the Lumia-exclusive HERE City Lens, lets you view your surroundings through a viewfinder which overlays information about places nearby.

Now the functionality is baked right into Maps, allowing you to quickly and simply find a point of interest. One distinct advantage over City Lens is the surprising revelation that LiveSight works offline too. Beyond that major addition, HERE Maps has also finally delivered on the promise made by its icon by adding a compass.

HERE Maps is available in two flavors below: the first link is for all Windows Phone 8-powered handsets, while the second link is the Nokia Collection version for Lumia devices only. (As far as we can tell there is no difference in functionality.) Download either one for free by clicking on the links or scanning the QR codes.

Source: Nokia Conversations | Big thanks Gaurav and John!

HERE Maps
by NAVTEQ EUROPE B.V.
Version: 3.3.354.8
Price: Free
Trial: No

Download Link

HERE Maps (Nokia Collection)
by Nokia Corporation
Version: 3.3.354.8
Price: Free
Trial: No

Download Link

New YouTube app for Windows Phone gaining access to first-party APIs as Microsoft and Google reconcile (Update)

2013-05-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

World Peace is official! Well, make that a modicum of peace between Google and Microsoft over the YouTube app for Windows Phone. After a hard fought war of the words, the two companies have reportedly reconciled their differences and are now working together on a YouTube app for Windows Phone with access to those coveted first-party APIs. (But there's a tiny catch.)

In a statement given to All About Microsoft, a Google spokesperson announced that a new app will be coming and will be in full compliance with YouTube's terms of service. So what's the catch? Unfortunately the development of this new app means that the faux-official YouTube client that Microsoft built (which started this whole battle) is going to be pulled from the Store, and replaced with the same dodgy web link "app" to the mobile site that Windows Phone users had to suffer with the past two and a half years. This is apparently only going to be temporary as the new app is built and delivered "in the coming weeks".

The new app will make use of Google's first-party APIs and, yes, it will throw in advertisements for videos (which is a good thing for us YouTube publishers!). While not confirmed by Google or Microsoft yet, we hope this new YouTube app will also play nice with new and upcoming functionality introduced to the video site's mobile apps. (For example, the iOS app recently added support for live streaming.)

Anyway, it looks like we got exactly the kind of win-win situation Microsoft was hoping for. While we're sure they would've prefer them take the bait and potentially succumb to antitrust concerns, we have to imagine Microsoft is pleased it got anything out of Google for Windows Phone. Does this mean we'll get any other Google apps on Windows Phone? ... One battle at a time, please.

Update: The YouTube app by Microsoft has been swiftly pulled from the Store.

Source: All About Microsoft

Red Stripe Deals for the week of May 23rd: Puzzle Quest 2, Drift Mania Championship 2, and Synthpling!

2013-05-23T12:26:00.002-07:00

It's Thursday — time for this week's trio of Red Stripe Deals on Windows Phone apps and games!

Are you still hung-over from the onslaught of Xbox releases from Electronic Arts yesterday? We don't blame you, but it's time to sober up and start pinching those pennies because we've got a fresh trio of Red Stripe Deals in the Store today. Who doesn't love a Bejeweled-RPG mashup, a drift car game, and a synthesizer app? Nobody, which is why you're going to head on past the break to learn more about each of these deals and their discounted prices for this week.

Xbox Deal of the Week: Puzzle Quest 2

The original Puzzle Quest was a huge surprise in the gaming world, creating such a fresh experience from combining Bejeweled-like puzzle matching with role-playing game elements. During random encounter battles, you have to match certain pieces together to cast spells, attack with weapons, or defend yourself and it's really quite novel and addictive once you get the hang of it. This sequel takes the whole experience a step further, including a proper storyline and much improved artwork, but has always been out of reach for some due to its absurdly high price (normally $6.99!!!). This week that's not a problem, with Puzzle Quest 2 just $2.99 with a free trial.

Indie Game Deal of the Week: Drift Mania Championship 2

Drift Mania Championship 2 may forever be known as the first Windows Phone 8 game to support the popular Unity3D game engine, but it's also not a half-bad game in its own right. Ratrod Studio's game is all about mastering the drift, which can be thrilling so long as you have the patience to learn as you battle across 13 circuits in career mode. The game also supports multiplayer, letting you shred rubber with your friends to see who racks up the most points. Normally $1.99, this week Drift Mania Championship 2 is just $0.99 (no trial).

App Deal of the Week: Synthpling!

Finally, some love for the music dorks! Music composition apps aren't talked about that much on Windows Phone or any other platform besides iOS, but we have a feeling Phonolab's Synthpling! might make a few converts. This powerful synthesizer includes several built-in voices to create your music with, or you can record your own clips to sample from. Its keyboard interface offers configurable layouts and effects processors too. Normally $2.99, Synthpling! is only $1.49 for the rest of this week and offers a free trial.

Remember, all of these Red Stripe Deals only last through a week from today (Thursday, May 30th).

Puzzle Quest 2
by Namco Bandai Games
Version: 1.1
Price: $2.99 (Sale) | $6.99 (Regular)
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Drift Mania Championship 2
by Ratrod Studio Inc.
Version: 1.0.2
Price: $0.99 (Sale) | $1.99 (Regular)
Trial: No

Download Link

Synthpling!
by Phonolab
Version: 1.2
Price: $1.49 (Sale) | $2.99 (Regular)
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Nokia Lumia 521 now available directly from T-Mobile, Wi-Fi Calling software update rolling out

2013-05-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

The Nokia Lumia 521 has been a tough to find bargain in most places it's being sold. None of our local Walmart stores have had them in stock over the past few weeks, while Microsoft Stores have also struggled maintaining their inventory according to our sources. Hopefully the hunt can now come to its conclusion for most of you, as T-Mobile has begun directly selling the dirt cheap Nokia Lumia 521 in its stores and online.

One distinct advantage T-Mobile holds over its retail partners is their willingness to finance your phone purchase over the course 24 months. That means the Nokia Lumia 521 will cost you very little up front at a T-Mobile store, just a $29.99 down payment to walk out with the phone in your hand. Of course you'll have to supplement that price with monthly payments of $5 each for the next two years, or you can just get it out of the way by buying the phone outright for a total of $149.99.

If you've already managed to get your hands on a Nokia Lumia 521 from Microsoft, Walmart, or HSN, you should receive a software update from T-Mobile beginning today. The firmware update adds a Wi-Fi Calling app to the phone, a nice feature that lets you make voice calls over an internet connection at no extra cost.

Have you purchased a Nokia Lumia 521 yet? How is it treating you so far?

Via: WinSource | Source: T-Mobile

Metrotube will soon be able to play YouTube videos from Baconit, Rowi, and other Windows Phone apps

2013-05-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

As Microsoft and Google bicker over the official YouTube app, LazyWorm Applications is stepping up its own efforts to make Metrotube a competitive YouTube standard on Windows Phone. The company has announced a new initiative to make that happen, allowing all Windows Phone 8 developers to code their apps to open Metrotube for any and all YouTube links.

For those who didn't know, Windows Phone 8 allows developers to launch apps from within apps. The main reason you probably didn't know is because developers have to include specific code for each app they want to launch, since the operating system itself doesn't give users the choice to set apps as defaults for links or actions. The most recent example we've seen of this is Liquid Daffodil's Unification which so far hasn't gained much traction getting popular apps to support its notification center.

Nonetheless, LazyWorm Apps is giving developers the same choice if they want to allow their apps to launch YouTube links using Metrotube's video player. A few very well-known apps are on board and plan to integrate with this new feature soon. The list includes the slick Twitter app Rowi, the popular Reddit client Baconit, news reading app Weave, internet browser SurfCube 3D, feature-rich Twitter app Mehdoh, and our friendly competition WPCentral.

The source link includes the exact code needed to launch Metrotube for YouTube links, while this link includes more information on how URI schema works in Windows Phone 8. We're personally excited to see some of these apps we use extremely frequently integrate with Metrotube, and we think the app has enough clout to pull this off where Unification hasn't yet since it's not a function as important as notifications.

How do you feel about this new feature? What apps would you like to see this in?

Source: LazyWorm Apps

YouTube app remains in the Windows Phone Store despite Google's deadline

2013-05-22T17:51:00.001-07:00

A week ago, Google sent Microsoft a cease and desist letter demanding the 'official' YouTube app be removed from the Windows Phone Store. Microsoft's response to those demands was something along the lines of 'you can get off that high horse of yours now'. Of course we're paraphrasing and Microsoft actually did say they'd be "more than happy" to resolve some of Google's problems with the app, like the lack of ads and the removal of video downloads...as long as Google offered them the APIs necessary to make that happen. Now, on the deadline that Google demanded YouTube be pulled from the Store, Microsoft has sent out a conveniently timed update to the app.

As if it weren't enough Microsoft trapped Google in a Catch-22 situation, they're going the extra mile to troll there way into keeping the YouTube app around. With today's update, Microsoft is trying to look like the good guy and has opted to remove some of the things Google took issue with. Namely, video downloading has now been removed and you can no longer view videos that were specifically prohibited from mobile watching.

In a statement given to All About Microsoft, Microsoft says it's done what it can to resolve Google's complaints and now the only thing left to do is enable ads, which will require some participation from Google:

Microsoft updated the Windows Phone YouTube app to address the restricted video and offline video access concerns voiced by Google last week. We have been in contact with Google and continue to believe that our two companies can work together to hone an app that benefits our mutual customers, partners and content providers. We’re earning new customers every day, with IDC reporting recently that Windows Phone posted the largest year-over-year gain among leading operating systems. We look forward to working with Google to maintain a great YouTube experience for the growing number of people who rely on both of our respective products.

While some publications see this as "damage control" on the part of Microsoft, we actually think it's the exact opposite. This update was deliberately sent out today to remind the low-attention-span press that the YouTube app is sticking around for Windows Phone, until Google forcibly pulls it. Like we said in our analysis last week, Microsoft has deftly placed itself in a win-win situation: either Google plays ball and supports the YouTube app for Windows Phone, or they pull it and for once look like the bad guys. We also find it funny that Google justified not building a YouTube app because of Windows Phone's small user base, yet they seem to dread losing out on the revenue from those same users.

So if you want a decent YouTube experience and help make Google's decision a little easier, why not download the app to your Windows Phone 8 device right now? It's free, so grab it by clicking on the link or scanning the QR code.

YouTube
by Microsoft Corporation
Version: 3.0.0.2
Price: Free
Trial: No

Download Link

Via: Engadget | Source: All About Microsoft

Four EA games now available to all Windows Phones: Trivial Pursuit, Game of Life, Parking Mania, and Spy Mouse

2013-05-22T15:34:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday and do you know what that means? A new Xbox Game of the Week is out for Windows Phone!

Don't worry non-Lumia owners, because they're not the only ones getting some Xbox gaming love from Electronic Arts. Four titles — Trivial Pursuit, The Game of Life, Parking Mania, and SPY Mouse — have all moved away from the Nokia Collection and are now available to download on all Windows Phone devices. Check out a short description of each and the grab the downloads after the break.

Trivial Pursuit

The classic board game is now an on-the go-experience with Trivial Pursuit on Windows Phone. Featuring two game modes, Pursuit Mode and Classic Mode, the game lets you track your stats and earn achievements for being such a smart jerk. The game also includes multiplayer over a local Wi-Fi connection to recreate the experience of making all of your family members resent you.

The Game of Life

Another classic board game that has been making family members hate you for decades comes to Windows Phone: The Game of Life. Though it doesn't include online multiplayer, it does throw in a Pass and Play mode to share with friends. Make savvy life choices and earn Xbox achievements to embarrass your friends even further.

Parking Mania

There's a whole genre of addictive and brain-crushing parking games, and EA's Parking Mania is one of the elite members. With over 80 different vehicles across several different levels, the objective is to park every single car where they belong. But thanks to some clever level design, that simple task is harder than you'd think.

SPY Mouse

And now a game about a mouse whose a spy, in the appropriately titled SPY Mouse. You play as Agent Squeak (aww) who must stealthily maneuver through more than 70 levels across six different worlds. Beware of feline foes, who you must outrun with the help of gadgets and gizmos.

Each of these games is available for $2.99 and as a free trial. Download them now by clicking on the links or scanning the QR codes.

Trivial Pursuit
by Electronic Arts
Version: 1.1
Price: $2.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

The Game of Life
by Electronic Arts
Version: 1.0
Price: $2.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Parking Mania
by Electronic Arts
Version: 1.1
Price: $2.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

SPY Mouse
by Electronic Arts
Version: 2.0
Price: $2.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Source: Windows Phone Blog

EA releases Mass Effect, NBA Jam, Real Racing 2, and Tiger Woods 12 for Nokia Lumia devices

2013-05-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

Wednesday is always Xbox day on Windows Phone, but today in particular is Xbox-binge day if you own a Nokia Lumia device. Thanks to their partnership deal, Electronic Arts has released four huge Xbox-enabled games to Nokia's handsets today and a few of them we've been awaiting patiently for months. Head on past the break for the details and download links.

Mass Effect: Infiltrator

Probably the most unexpected release out of the bunch, this popular mobile spin-off of the Mass Effect sci-fi game franchise has come to Windows Phone 8 (plus it's compatible with 512 MB RAM devices). In the game you play as Randall Ezno, a Cerberus agent who realizes the organization's experiments have crossed the line and vows to take them down. Infiltrator adopts the franchise's heralded combat system and combines it with an intuitive tap-and-swipe targeting system for mobile. It also carries some of the console games' RPG elements with a credits system, allowing you to upgrade gear and abilities. Mass Effect: Infiltrator is available for all Nokia Windows Phone 8 handsets for $6.99 along with a free trial.

NBA Jam

BOOMSHAKALAKA, baby! NBA Jam was one of EA's most beloved sports games during the 'retro' era of gaming, and recently the publisher revived the franchise to much fanfare. Featuring the top players from the NBA's teams, this fast-paced arcade basketball games pits players in a 2 vs. 2 battle of dunks, alley oops, and spin moves. Featuring the challenging Campaign mode, an instant game Play Now mode, and of course Multiplayer over a local Wi-Fi connection, NBA Jam is almost definitely worth the $2.99 it's asking for (works on all Windows Phones).

Real Racing 2

Until recently, the selection of racing games on Windows Phone was a bit lackluster but we've been holding out hope that this title (which we reported on months ago) would soon make its way onto the platform. The extremely popular racing game Real Racing 2 has launched on Windows Phone. Considering that Real Racing 3 was already released on other platforms three months ago, we have to admit we're less excited about this release now. But nonetheless this isn't a bad game featuring 30 well-known licensed cars, a 10 hour campaign in Career mode, a quick-and-dirty race with in Quick Race, a battle against the clock in Time Trial Mode, and races against other players thanks to Multiplayer mode on Wi-Fi. Real Racing 2 is on the expensive side at $4.99, but at least there's a free trial.

Tiger Woods 12

The weather is getting better in most places, and it's almost time to hit the green this Summer. Start prepping now with the popular Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12 on Windows Phone. Play in Solo mode, Multiplayer mode, or PGA Tour mode to improve your game as you play as any of the Tour's most famous golfers — or as your own unique character. Throw in some Xbox achievements and overall not a bad game. Tiger Woods 12 is $2.99 and available for all Windows Phones.

Grab any of these Nokia-exclusive EA games by scanning their QR codes or clicking on their links below.

Mass Effect: Infiltrator
by Nokia Corporation
Version: 1.1
Price: $6.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link (WP8)

NBA Jam
by Nokia Corporation
Version: 1.1
Price: $2.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Real Racing 2
by Nokia Corporation
Version: 1.1
Price: $4.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Tiger Woods 12
by Nokia Corporation
Version: 1.3
Price: $2.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Source: Windows Phone Blog

Winstagram adds ability to register for an Instagram account in latest update

2013-05-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, Winstagram came out of the blue as another Instagram uploader and it happened to be the first to offer compatibility with Windows Phone 7 users. Since then another uploader has been released for the now 'old' platform, but Winstagram is responding to the competition well with a new update that adds a big feature: the ability to register for an Instagram account.

Now when you launch Winstagram for the first time, you'll be greeted with a login page that also includes a small button to register. Tapping on that reveals a quick entry form allowing you to set your future account's username, password, email, and of course name. Following that you should be all set to go and start uploading, and if you want to further edit your profile you can always login to Instagram's website.

This isn't the only addition Winstagram has made with the release of version 1.1. The app is also a little less offensive to the design-conscious among us, featuring a nice new logo by the developer. Meanwhile, the text box where you enter your photo's caption has been improved and now expands to the length of the text — previously it was a fixed size and text would be cut off after the third line. Finally, Winstagram has also added support for the 'Share..' menu in the Pictures Hub, making it much faster to upload photos than hunting down the app (especially useful if you use a separate photo editor).

Where the app hasn't changed is the fact that it is still an uploader, and that's it. No filters, no integration with any of Instagram's social features, and no way to edit your profile. That being said, we feel much more comfortable recommending Winstagram now than before — it's fast and functional, and for some of you may be the only way to create an Instagram account for the time being. Winstagram is available for Windows Phone 7 and 8 for $1.99 (no trial); download it by clicking on the link or scanning the QR code below.

Winstagram
by Barrett Karish
Version: 1.1
Price: $1.99
Trial: No

Download Link

Google+ mobile site redesigned and compatible with Windows Phone

2013-05-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

The Google+ social network has announced a new redesign to its mobile site, and for once it looks like the company is throwing Windows Phone users a bone.

To those who use Google's up and coming network yet happen to also love their Microsoft-powered smartphones (and we know there's plenty of you), the new mobile site is now fully compatible with both Windows Phone 7 and 8. In addition, the redesign reflects the main website's new look by turning posts into 'cards' and larger tap targets on the Pages and Profiles screens.

It's not quite the native app we're sure Google+ users have been waiting patiently for, but at least it's something. Check it out now with your account at plus.google.com.

Via: Engadget | Source: Google+ | Thanks, Michael!

Ad-supported Itsdagram Free now available for Windows Phone 8, paid version updated

2013-05-22T00:57:00.000-07:00

Instagram continues to ignore Windows Phone officially, but unofficially we couldn't be more pleased with how developers are picking up the slack. The highly-praised Itsdagram by Daniel Gary is the closest we've come to the full Instagram experience on Windows Phone 8, and now it's available in a new flavor: free.

Yup, Itsdagram has become the second Instagram client to hit the bottom of the barrel and it's doing so thanks to ads within the app. There's no difference beyond the small banners between the paid and free versions. Of course if you don't want ads to impede upon the lovely experience of Itsdagram, you can scrounge up the measly $1.49 and reward Mr. Gary his dues.

In addition to that exciting release, the paid version of Itsdagram has also received a significant software update. Here's what's in version 1.2:

No more black background on comments
New live tile design
Find friends should work better
Registration process is smoother
See your following/follower/photo count on your profile
Private profiles and approve/deny follow requests
Refined UI
Notifications should not repeat
Save images to your phone
Direct feedback page removed

You know what to do now — download either flavor of Itsdagram by clicking on the links or scanning the QR codes below.

Itsdagram
by Daniel Gary
Version: 1.2
Price: $1.49
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Itsdagram
by Daniel Gary
Version: 1.2
Price: Free
Trial: No

Download Link

AGENT smartwatch touts Windows Phone 8 support and Qi wireless charging (Video)

2013-05-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Wearable technology is approaching a point of mass adoption, with smartwatches leading the revolutionary cause. Unfortunately, few of these tech-savvy wrist watches have supported Windows Phone 8 due to the platform's somewhat crippled Bluetooth support and of course it's relatively small market share. However, the new AGENT smartwatch by Secret Labs and House of Horology currently seeking funds through Kickstarter is finally promising an intelligent companion to your Windows Phone 8 handset alongside other platforms.

The new product is an intriguing one to say the least, promising a 'no compromises' experience with portable information. The AGENT connects to a variety of Bluetooth devices like smartphones, heart rate monitors, and more. For smartphones in particular, the AGENT can display incoming calls and notifications allowing you to quickly take action on them from the watch. There's also a clever Lost Phone Alert, when the watch vibrates to inform you that the connection to the phone has been dropped and thus you may have lost it.

The AGENT smartwatch also features downloadable apps, enabled through Microsoft's .NET Micro Framework runtime. Apps for the accessory can be written in C# using Visual Studio and deployed over Bluetooth. Yet the most clever feature of the AGENT might be its support for Qi Wireless Charging, the same standard that Nokia's Lumia phones use. When it comes to market, the AGENT will be sold with its own charger but may also be used with any other Qi accessory.

The companies expect mass production to kick off in December 2013, while early backers will be rewarded between June and September 2013. Speaking of those backers, 477 people have currently funded the Kickstarter campaign and so far have raised $81,691 out of the $100,000 goal. All of that money has been raised today alone, leaving the campaign plenty of more time to raise funds before the deadline on June 20, 2013. If you're interested in funding the project and possibly getting your hands on one early for a discounted price, check out the Kickstarter campaign at the source link.

Update: The campaign has reached its funding goal within 24 hours of launching, and has nearly tripled at it with $317,098 raised as of this writing. If you're interested in getting one of the AGENT watches at a discount by the time it hits mass production in December, there's an option to contribute $149.99 to the campaign and in return you're entitled to the watch. If you spend a little more at $199.99, you'll get the Qi wireless charger too. (Both options offer a savings of $100 of the MSRP.) We'll keep you posted about the project.

Via: TechCrunch | Source: Kickstarter

Xbox One console announced: broadcast TV support, new Kinect sensor and controller, Windows kernel, and more

2013-05-21T11:45:00.001-07:00

Microsoft's next-generation gaming console is finally official. Say hello to the Xbox One, an entirely new console that blew the crowd away inside the massive tent fixed upon the Microsoft campus in Redmond, Washington today. We'll break down all of the details after the break, so join us if you want a look at the next-gen Xbox.

Launching across the globe 'later this year', the Xbox One console was shown off for the first time at the event alongside a next-generation Kinect sensor and a redesigned Xbox controller. The console isn't quite as good-looking as the most recent Xbox 360 design, but Microsoft didn't spend much time talking about the looks at all. Instead, specs and software were the name of the game at today's event and the One certainly delivered with both. The Xbox One features a 8-core processor, 500 GB internal hard drive, USB 3.0 ports, Wi-Fi Direct support, a Blu-Ray optical drive, and more. Plus the Kinect sensor has been thoroughly improved, adding in more high-quality microphones and 1080p video.

Yet the specs are merely a means to an end with the Xbox One, with the software impressing us the most. The 'Xbox One Architecture' as Microsoft referred to it is comprised of three parts of operating systems: the Xbox software that has enabled developers to craft games, the Windows kernel which will bring support for fast and reliable web apps (including Skype), and another piece of software that acts as the connective tissue for interoperability and fast switching between the two. Microsoft has also brought over its heralded Snap feature from Windows 8 to the Xbox One, allowing users to snap an app to take up part of the screen alongside your main content (i.e. watching Star Trek while browsing Internet Explorer). Also while not announced on stage, the Xbox One also has a new Game DVR feature which will "captures and accesses your magic moments, all saved to the cloud".

Oh, and you can turn on the console just by saying "Xbox on". (Freaking awesome!)

Television content is a big focus of the Xbox One moving forward. Rumors about the console's integration with live broadcast television were true, with Microsoft gleefully demoing the Xbox One watching The Price Is Right through a Comcast signal. It's not quite as simple as just watching TV though, as the console has a few tricks up its sleeves to make your cable box look thoroughly outdated. You can change channels rapidly and by name (i.e. "Xbox, watch CBS.") through the new Kinect's voice commands. Meanwhile there's also a new OneGuide which shows you the entire television schedule just like on any modern cable box, but also includes an interesting Trending section where you can see the most popular shows being watched by Xbox One users.

The television interaction goes a step further with new partnerships and initiatives established by Microsoft. Close partner ESPN is developing a new app that can tie into live sports stats, so if you have a fantasy NBA team and LeBron James just scored, the app will send you an update with real-time stats of the players' performance. A huge new partnership announced on stage was a lucrative deal with the NFL, which will show live broadcasts of games for the first time on Microsoft's console. It will also feature similar app integration as ESPN, allowing users to track player points with a Fantasy Football app. Finally, a new Xbox One-exclusive television series based on the Halo franchise and executive produced by Steven Spielberg was announced: John, Wake Up.

Games announced include four titles from EA Sports (Madden NFL 25, NBA Live 14, FIFA 14, and EA Sports UFC), the stunning Forza Motorsport 5, and Remedy's Quantum Break. Microsoft has also nabbed 15 Xbox One-exclusive titles for the console's first year on the market, eight of which are all-new franchises. Finally, the event was also home to the world premiere trailer of Activision's Call of Duty: Ghosts and Microsoft confirmed that the Xbox One would have first dibs on downloadable content packs for the game before any other console. Microsoft is promising more game announcements coming at E3 2013 in just a few weeks.

In relation to Windows Phone, there was no explicit mention of the platform on stage. However, a noticeable red Nokia Lumia 920 was used during the early demo quite a few times. The phone was utilizing a future update to the SmartGlass app, used to control various apps that had been snapped during demos on stage such as Internet Explorer, ESPN, and NFL. Yet with the Windows kernel now found in all three members of Microsoft's three screen strategy, we suspect Windows Phone will play a role in developer discussions at BUILD 2013 during June.

So talk about a huge event! What do you guys think of Microsoft's new gaming console? Do you like the name? Did you want to see more games?

Source: Xbox Wire, Microsoft

Video: Aggressive new Nokia Lumia 928 ad shows direct low-light comparison with the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S4

2013-05-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

Windows Phone has produced some phenomenal marketing over the past few months, with its ultimate success being that ridiculous 'Don't Fight' wedding ad (currently at a whopping 5.3 million views on YouTube). But now that a top-notch flagship from Nokia is on the United State's most popular mobile carrier, it's time to turn the volume up and make some more noise. Microsoft has delivered with an aggressive new ad, starring the Nokia Lumia 928.

We know from Verizon's first commercial that everyone involved is trying to court the lucrative and influential young demographic, and the phone's low-light photography skills played a big role in that ad. The same thing applies to this new Microsoft commercial, which takes place entirely in dark settings — outdoor parties, concerts, swimming pools — where the nightlife adventures of the youth reign supreme.

Accompanied by a hard thumping soundtrack, we're shown various exciting moments in peoples' lives captured by the Nokia Lumia 928. From posing while mid-air on your way into a pool to doing some stunts on the street with a highlight-coated moped, the commercial is going far to appeal to the young crowd. Ultimately the ad leads up to the excellent slogan "You've never seen the night like this" and shows a side-by-side comparison of actual photos taken with the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S4. Watch it below.

Microsoft has been on a roll with their advertising lately, and we're glad they're turning their attention towards selling the features now. What do you think of the commercial? Love it or hate it?

Via: WMPoweruser | Source: YouTube

Watch the #XboxReveal event from the palm of your hand with Microsoft's Live Video Player app

2013-05-20T12:09:00.003-07:00

Do you know what day tomorrow is? It's May 21st, and that means it's World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development! Oh, and there's this little thing going on at Microsoft's campus too. Something about a new generation of Xbox, like anyone cares, right? Well in case for some reason you do care about tomorrow's event in a giant tent filled with gaming nerds, Microsoft wants to make sure you can watch all of the action from your Windows Phone 8 handset with its Live Video Player app.

Announced by Larry Hyrb (aka Major Nelson) on Twitter earlier this morning, the Live Video Player app has just been released by the company as a simple and basic way of streaming the #XboxReveal event on your phone. That's about all the app does so far as we can tell, which confuses us as to why this is a Windows Phone 8-only app.

So unfortunately if you're on Windows Phone 7, there's probably no way for you to watch the event tomorrow from your phone. But there's plenty of ways to watch it from your computer, television, or Xbox 360. You can stream it from any computer through Xbox.com, watch the live television broadcast through Spike TV, or experience your current console become old and decrepit right before your eyes by streaming the event on your Xbox 360.

The #XboxReveal event kicks off tomorrow May 21st at 10 AM Pacific / 1 PM Eastern — also feel free to bookmark the countdown timer we've whipped up. (Anyone want to guess if we'll see any new Windows Phone integration too?)

Via: All About Windows Phone, Major Nelson (Twitter)

Live Video Player
by Microsoft Corporation
Version: 1.0.0.3
Price: Free
Trial: No

Download Link (WP8)

Video: Windows Phone has a solution to all of the things kids say in endearing new commercial

2013-05-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Kids have a funny habit of being extremely annoying in the cutest way imaginable. There was an entire comedy show built around the premise, and Microsoft has tapped into that naïve curiosity for a new advertisement.

Published earlier today to the Windows Phone UK YouTube channel, the funny commercial for Windows Phone 8's excellent Kids Corner functionality features a young wide-eyed boy asking every possible question you could think of. From pondering the true identity of the Easter Bunny to being confused by the things adults do together in the bedroom, the adorable kid's curiosity knows no bounds delivering each inquiry with the perfect tone of voice that's both annoying and endearing.

Watch it above and just try not to smile at least a little.

Source: YouTube

Nokia Lumia 928 already backordered at Verizon. Amazon, and other online retailers

2013-05-18T20:30:00.001-07:00

Whenever an anticipated phone is launched, there's usually a wave of early adopters ready to grab it while it's still a hot commodity. After a few days since its launch on May 16th, it appears most online retailers, including Verizon itself, have underestimated initial demand.

Verizon's inventory of the black Nokia Lumia 928 is "temporarily out of stock" according to the listing, but the previously-delayed white version has begun shipping and appears to still be available to order. Looking elsewhere, first-run supplies also ran out at Amazon, which is surprising when one considers that the handset was not given a discounted price.

Several other retailers did discount the phone however, and they're also reporting short-handed inventories. Newegg, who easily had the best deal on the handset at $29.99, now has shipping on new orders delayed by 7 to 10 days (seen below). Similar messages have popped up on Wirefly, and LetsTalk. The only places we've tracked down where the Nokia Lumia 928 is available for immediate order is the Microsoft Store, with both the black and white ready to ship, and Best Buy, with just the white in stock.

While it's encouraging to see inventory sold out in several popular retailers, it obviously doesn't tell the whole story. When AT&T launched the Nokia Lumia 920 last November, it sold out rapidly but struggled to remain in stock until late December. It's impossible to tell if the handset is actually popular or if this is just overzealous early adopters gobbling up the initial supply, but for now it's an encouraging sign.

New Instagram client, #2InstaWithMassiveLove, brings photo editing and printing to Windows Phone 7 and 8

2013-05-17T21:15:00.000-07:00

Looking for another Instagram app for uploading on Windows Phone? If you're keeping count at home, we've received three separate apps in the past few weeks so far: Instagraph, Winstagram, and Itsdagram. Now there's another new player in the mix: #2InstaWithMassiveLove.

Now available to download in the Store for both Windows Phone 7.x and 8, the app's name is clearly poking fun at Nokia's own alternative photo sharing app. But unlike that somewhat misguided app, #2InstaWithMassiveLove delivers exactly what you'd hope: uploading an unlimited amount of photos directly to Instagram. (We've tested it and can confirm that it works.)

The app steps up its functionality from just uploading too, since you can also customize your images before upload thanks to the built-in Aviary Photo Editor. Then all you have to do is enter a caption and choose if you want to save the photo to your phone first before uploading. It also offers some minor type of client functionality by loading up the Instagram mobile site, from which you can see the most recently shared photos and comment on them. The only negatives we see with the app is that it requires you already have an Instagram account, which may instantly place it out of reach for some unlucky users.

Another interesting aspect of #2InstaWithMassiveLove that lets it stand out against the litany of other Instagram clients popping up on Windows Phone is the ability to print your photos. You know, on this ancient technology called photo paper? This is done with the assistance of Singapore start-up company PixaRoll, which is offering five free photo prints when you use the promo code 'instamatic'. You'd better hurry if you want them for free though, because there's a fixed amount of times users can take advantage of the promo codes before the giveaway expires.

Oh, and here's another differentiator that might get you interested: #2InstaWithMassiveLove is available for free unlimited use with the trial, or you can just pay $0.99 to get rid of ads. For Windows Phone 7 users, that's a much better deal than Winstagram's asking price and you get a bit more functionality to boot. So if you're done reading and want to start downloading, grab the app by clicking on the link or scanning the QR code below.

#2InstaWithMassiveLove
by SmokedbyWindows8
Version: 1.1
Price: $0.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Metrotube for Windows 8 updated with slick new snapped view and other tweaks

2013-05-17T18:16:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, Metrotube finally brought a slick-looking and well-designed YouTube experience to Windows 8 (unlike the company that actually owns YouTube). Even better, the app was free with the option to donate if you felt you should support the hard-working and innovative developers at LazyWorm Applications. In case you needed proof of their level of support for their apps, we've got the perfect example: a solid new update now available for Metrotube in the Windows Store.

The third-party YouTube app was already good-looking and feature rich, but this new update goes a little further to refine the experience and smash some bugs in the process. The biggest new feature of the update is an all-new snapped view (pictured above), which reorients all of the elements of the app's main page and video page into a more compact, but just as touch-friendly, interface for multitasking. You can even navigate and find videos more easily from the snapped view, with the app allowing you to quickly jump between channels, subscriptions, uploads, favorites, recently played, and watch later.

There's plenty more in the update, which is evidenced in the full changelog for the update:

Big improvements to snapped experience
Added 'back stack' navigation & universal home button
Custom semantic zoom in portrait mode
Can login/logout from anywhere in the app
Improved error handling and error messages
Various bug fixes & UI tweaks

Unfortunately this is not the update which adds preloading of videos, support for playlists, or the ability to pin channels to the Start screen — those are due to arrive in later updates. But it's tough to complain about such a high quality product that's asking for nothing in return except a few megabytes of space on your computer or tablet.

Even if you only use the desktop or just don't bother downloading apps, you owe it to yourself to give Metrotube on Windows 8 a shot. Download it for free from the source link.

Source: Windows Store

Poll: Did you buy a Nokia Lumia 928 on Verizon yet?

2013-05-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's been more than 24 hours since Verizon launched the Nokia Lumia 928, and while it hasn't quite been as loud as the this-is-crazy-why-doesn't-anyone-know-what-they're-doing launch AT&T had for its Lumia flagship, we know there's more than a few of you who have been waiting very patiently.

We're curious and nosy so we have to ask: did you buy a Nokia Lumia 928 on Verizon yet? What are your initial impressions of the phone? Was it worth the wait? Vote in our poll below and then tell us what you love and don't love in the comments!

Itsdagram now available, finally brings a full-fledged Instagram client to Windows Phone 8

2013-05-16T18:33:00.000-07:00

It took long enough and after an accidental release last weekend, a full-fledged Instagram client is now finally available on Windows Phone 8. Itsdagram brings unlimited photo uploads, access to the network's social features, and the ability to create an account.

From Daniel Gary, the developer behind the popular Pinsation client for Pinterest on Windows Phone, is the mastermind behind the app. As far as we can see, Itsdagram is the first app to bring full-fat Instagram to Windows Phone (unofficially, of course). Like we mentioned above, it's one of few that offers unlimited photo uploads, Instagram's social features, and the ability to create an account from one single app.

The functionality doesn't stop there, as Itsdagram also throws in the ability to edit and customize your photos. Filters are bundled in with the app, and the developer promises that they may be updated at any time without actually having to update the app itself so you'll, "never know when you've got a brand new filter waiting for you!" It also includes the ability to share photos to Facebook and Twitter. Here's a full list of the features per the app description in the Store:

Double tap to like
Tap and hold to swap between Timeline view and Grid view.
See photos you've liked and have been tagged in on your profile page.
Change your profile picture and password there too!
Pin your favorite hashtags and users to your homescreen to keep track of them.
Free Trial will allow users that already have an account to upload 1 image to test. All other features are completely enabled. Commenting, Liking, Following, etc...
Registering a new account with Instagram requires the full version of Itsdagram.

The only drawback to the app that we can see is for Windows Phone 7 users. While a port is on the way, it's not available yet and we don't know when it will be released (if you're desperate, try the uploader Winstagram). Also if for some odd reason you don't think the app is worth paying for upfront (it costs less than what a bottle of soda is sold for here in California), you can look forward to a free ad-supported version which should be coming later next week

Itsdagram is available for Windows Phone 8 devices now for $1.49 alongside a free trial. The trial allows you to view and interact with the social features, and upload one photo to test if you already have an Instagram account (if you need to make an account, you have to buy the full version).

Via: WPCentral

Itsdagram
by Daniel Gary
Version: 1.0
Price: $1.49
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Angry Birds Rio brings the party to Windows Phone 7 and 8 as this week's Xbox release

2013-05-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday and do you know what that means? A new Xbox Game of the Week is out for Windows Phone!

Rovio has done a fantastic job porting all of its popular games to Windows Phone and with today's newest release, our Angry Birds collection is nearly complete. Popular spin-off Angry Birds Rio has finally arrive on Windows Phone as the latest Xbox game release.

Based on Rio, the 2011 animated film from DreamWorks, this Angry Birds adventure takes place in Brazil during the height of the Rio Carnaval festivities. The story finds the game's famous pissed-off avians smuggled into Rio de Janeiro against their will. You have to help save all of the birds you know and love, plus two new characters included from the film — Blu and Jewel.

As with any new Angry Birds game, there's new gameplay mechanics at work and some gorgeous new level designs with original art. Featuring over 210 levels across seven episodes, with an additional 40 bonus episodes, you're certainly getting your money's worth. However as with all of Rovio's recent releases, only the Windows Phone 8 version of the game has Xbox support while the Windows Phone 7 version does not.

Angry Birds Rio is available in the Windows Phone Store for $0.99 along with the standard free trial.

Click on the tile or link below to get the game from the Windows Phone Store; or scan the QR code to the right by using Bing Vision on your Windows Phone.

Angry Birds Rio
by Rovio Entertainment Ltd.
Version: 1.6.1
Price: $0.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link (WP8)

Angry Birds Rio
by Rovio Entertainment Ltd
Version: 1.6.1
Price: $0.99
Trial: Yes

Download Link (WP7)

Red Stripe Deals for the week of May 16th: Super Monkey Ball 2, glƏƏk!, and Hockey Nations PP

2013-05-16T15:39:00.001-07:00

It's Thursday — time for this week's trio of Red Stripe Deals on Windows Phone apps and games!

Penny pinchers, we know you're more than happy to welcome another collection of Red Stripe Deals, which are now live in the Windows Phone Store. Featuring a monkey rolling the world in a bubble, a fantastic Twitter client that is unflinchingly original, and a top-notch hockey game for all of you playoff hounds, check out each of this week's discount after the jump.

Xbox Deal of the Week: Super Monkey Ball 2

This week's Xbox-enabled discount is none other than SEGA's Super Monkey Ball 2. In this popular chapter of the franchise, you once again find yourself controlling a cute monkey's every movement by tilting your phone, as he rolls around in a bubble trying to progress through each level. Featuring six worlds and 125 levels, you're getting a sizable game in return for your moolah, plus a triplet of minigames. Its predecessor got a bad reputation on Windows Phone for being a buggy unstable mess, but Super Monkey Ball 2 is holding up better a 4-star average rating from 86 reviews in the Store. Normally $2.99, the game is just $0.99 for the rest of this week plus a free trial.

Indie Game Deal of the Week: Hockey Nations PP

We're not sure how we've never heard of the impressive-looking Hockey Nations PP from Distinctive Developments Ltd until now, but we won't complain about meeting it for the first time when it's on a discount. Excellent timing thanks to the NHL Playoffs, Hockey Nations PP lets you play as one of 18 country teams or you can customize your own city team to play as. Boasting six game modes from Playoffs to Shootouts, skilled artificial intelligence to compete against, some excellent looking graphics, and (of course) the opportunity to get into a few brawls on the ice, it looks like a fantastic download. Users agree, with 43 reviews awarding the game a high 4.5-star average rating in the Store. Available this week for just $1.99 instead of its usual $3.99 asking price, we recommend you check it out and at least download the free trial. (Windows Phone 8 only.)

App Deal of the Week: glƏƏk!

Everyone has a different reaction when the see the word glƏƏk! for the first time, let alone the Twitter app the name is attached to. From the highly-creative developers Liquid Daffodil, glƏƏk! is an equally unique client for the social network that really reimagines how you can interact with Twitter. Obviously you can use it as a straightforward client and it excels in that area featuring multiple account support, viewing tweet conversations, full landscape support with orientation lock, text effects for tweets, and one-touch media interaction. But the app also prides itself on its unique pƏƏks feature, which functions like a Twitter-inside-Twitter where users can send messages that other users of glƏƏk! will be able to see even if you don't follow them. Normally worth its $1.99 price, now you can check it out for just $0.99 plus a free trial.

Remember, all of these Red Stripe Deals only last through a week from today (Thursday, May 23rd).

Super Monkey Ball 2
by SEGA
Version: 1.1
Price: $0.99 (Sale) | $2.99 (Regular)
Trial: Yes

Download Link

Hockey Nations PP
by Distinctive Developments Ltd
Version: [1.0]
Price: $1.99 (Sale) | $3.99 (Regular)
Trial: Yes

Download Link

glƏƏk!
by Liquid Daffodil
Version: 1.90.9.0
Price: $0.99 (Sale) | $1.99 (Regular)
Trial: Yes

Download Link

IDC: Windows Phone worldwide shipments claimed third place from BlackBerry for the first time during Q1 2013

2013-05-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

Image Credit: Nokia

In recent months it's become increasingly clear that in the hunt for the third-place spot in the smartphone market, the odds are looking good for Windows Phone. Microsoft's mobile operating system is still far behind Android and iOS but according to a new report from IDC, Windows Phone is growing faster than both and has leapfrogged Blackberry for the first time in worldwide device shipments during Q1 2013.

During the quarter, Windows Phone accounted for 3.2% of all smartphone shipments, compared to BlackBerry's 2.9% marking the first time Microsoft's mobile OS has out-shipped handsets from the company. In terms of actual shipment numbers, an estimated 7 million Windows Phones were shipped over the three-month span. With these results, Windows Phone has solidified its position as the third-place smartphone operating system with only Android and iOS ahead of it.

IDC notes that Windows Phone growth doesn't appear to be a fluke either with shipments growing faster than any other operating system — a rise of 133% (more than double) year over year. It also points out that Nokia remains the dominant player in Windows Phone, making up a mind-boggling 79% of all shipments during the quarter. They conclude on a positive note saying, "the gains made by Windows Phone demonstrate both end-user demand and OEM support."

Now that Nokia has fleshed out its entire lineup of budget Lumia's while introducing two new flagships, with Verizon's handset already on sale, it appears Microsoft's mobile OS will keep the momentum going and try to distance itself from BlackBerry even further.

Source: IDC