Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com Download Squad http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[iOS 4.2.1 out today, brings multitasking to iPad]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/22/ios-4-2-1-out-now-brings-multitasking-to-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/22/ios-4-2-1-out-now-brings-multitasking-to-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/22/ios-4-2-1-out-now-brings-multitasking-to-ipad/#commentsFiled under: ,

Let the iTunes-powered updating begin: iOS 4.2.1 is here, and ready to install on your Apple device. If you own an iPhone 3, 3GS, 4, iPod touch 2nd gen or newer, or an iPad, you're good to go. Among the big additions to iOS this time around: multitasking and app folder support for the iPad. There's also AirPlay and AirPrint for even more cord-free computing action on your handheld and Game Center integration is now live as well.

The full presser from Cupertino is available after the break.

Continue reading iOS 4.2.1 out today, brings multitasking to iPad

Download SquadiOS 4.2.1 out today, brings multitasking to iPad originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 08:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.2.1airplayairprintapplefoldergame centerGameCenteriosipadiphoneipodmultitaskingosupdatesMon, 22 Nov 2010 08:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple releases iOS 4.2.1 GM, still no public release of iOS 4.2]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/18/apple-releases-ios-4-2-1-gm-still-no-public-release-of-ios-4-2/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/18/apple-releases-ios-4-2-1-gm-still-no-public-release-of-ios-4-2/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/18/apple-releases-ios-4-2-1-gm-still-no-public-release-of-ios-4-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Apple customers who are clamoring for iOS 4.2 shouldn't have much longer to wait. Today, Apple released a gold master of iOS 4.2.1 to developers, which should get the gold master software for iPhones and iPads back on the same version after a little snafu with the iPad version of the software last week. 4.2.1 just came out, and there's no changelog, so we don't know whether any features have been added yet, or whether this will actually be the version released to the public, leapfrogging over 4.2.

MacStories is reporting rumors of serious issues with audio and Exchange in iOS 4.2, and that 4.2.1 was release internally earlier this week as an urgent fix for those issues. The site also says that Apple employees were instructed to get testing done by this weekend, which points to a release early next week.

Download SquadApple releases iOS 4.2.1 GM, still no public release of iOS 4.2 originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleios 4.2ios 4.2.1Ios4.2Ios4.2.1ipadiphoneosupdatesThu, 18 Nov 2010 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrome OS launch won't happen this year]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/16/chrome-os-launch-wont-happen-this-year/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/16/chrome-os-launch-wont-happen-this-year/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/16/chrome-os-launch-wont-happen-this-year/#commentsFiled under: ,

Last month, it looked like Google Chrome OS was still on track for a Q4 2010 release -- as originally promised by Google when it announced the project. Back in June, VP of Product Management Sundar Pichai told Reuters that it was going to arrive earlier than expected. That didn't happen.

Later, our cohorts at TechCrunch got wind of a potential release this week -- but a comment by Eric Schmidt at the Web 2.0 Summit seems to have doused the flames. According to Schmidt, Chrome OS will launch "in the next few months." That, of course, means no Christmastime Chromebooks, and it makes launching in time for CES seem unlikely as well, since that's just seven weeks off.

[via The Register]

Download SquadChrome OS launch won't happen this year originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chromechrome osChromeOscrosgooglelaunchosupdatesTue, 16 Nov 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple releases new Gold Master for iOS 4.2, fixes iPad Wi-Fi bug]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/apple-releases-new-gold-master-for-ios-4-2-fixes-ipad-wi-fi-bug/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/apple-releases-new-gold-master-for-ios-4-2-fixes-ipad-wi-fi-bug/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/apple-releases-new-gold-master-for-ios-4-2-fixes-ipad-wi-fi-bug/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We reported earlier today that Apple's iOS 4.2, rumored to be released today, was being delayed because of an iPad Wi-Fi problem, and that a second gold master -- the final version of the OS before public release -- was expected. That gold master has just been made available to developers, for iPad only. With this problem out of the way, we're now looking at a likely Monday release for iOS 4.2.

One helpful tip to avoid confusion between the two different iOS 4.2 gold masters: the build number of the updated iPad-only gold master is the same as the previous one, but with a b added to the end, so make sure you download build number 8C134b for use on the iPad.

Download SquadApple releases new Gold Master for iOS 4.2, fixes iPad Wi-Fi bug originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegolden masterGoldenMasterios 4.2ios 4.2 gmIos4.2Ios4.2GmipadiphoneosupdatesFri, 12 Nov 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 2.3 Gingerbread to get Wii-like motion processing?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/android-2-3-gingerbread-to-get-wii-like-motion-processing/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/android-2-3-gingerbread-to-get-wii-like-motion-processing/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/android-2-3-gingerbread-to-get-wii-like-motion-processing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Wii MotionPlus controllerAndroid 2.3 Gingerbread will be the first Android version to have support for the gyroscopes that are starting to show up more and more in high-end smartphones. The new 'sensor fusion' APIs that Google will introduce in Gingerbread include quaternion, rotation matrix, linear acceleration and gravity, and will allow the gyroscope to work together with the accelerometer and the magnetometer. The new sensor fusion technology is expected to be used in augmented reality, gaming, image stabilization and navigation -- but the possibilities are truly endless and it's up to developers to come up with exciting new things based on these APIs.

This has all been made possible thanks to InvenSense, the same company that's behind the MEMS gyroscope found in the Nintendo Wii MotionPlus controller. A demo video of what to expect is after the break, and it's part of a Google Tech Talk that InvenSense's David Sachs hosted back in August.

[via Android and Me]

Continue reading Android 2.3 Gingerbread to get Wii-like motion processing?

Download SquadAndroid 2.3 Gingerbread to get Wii-like motion processing? originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3android gingerbreadAndroid2.3AndroidGingerbreadgingerbreadgooglegyroscopegyroscopesinvensensemobileos updateOS updatesOsUpdateOsUpdatessensorSensor FusionSensorFusionsensorsFri, 12 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iOS 4.2 may have been delayed due to an iPad Wi-Fi bug, new golden master could be on the way]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/ios-4-2-may-have-been-delayed-due-to-an-ipad-wi-fi-bug-new-golden-master/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/ios-4-2-may-have-been-delayed-due-to-an-ipad-wi-fi-bug-new-golden-master/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/12/ios-4-2-may-have-been-delayed-due-to-an-ipad-wi-fi-bug-new-golden-master/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

iOS 4.2 iPad multitaskingiOS 4.2 was supposed to become available today, however new reports are coming in that its release has been delayed again. While the previously rumored delay existed thanks to issues with Japanese characters not being displayed properly, this delay has its roots in something more important -- Wi-Fi connection issues that have been reported by many users of the golden master for the iPad.

What happens is that the iPad simply disconnects from a Wi-Fi network just a few minutes after it has connected. This is the most widely reported behavior of the bug, although some extreme cases, where users simply can't use Safari at all, have also been reported. Rumor has it that Apple has decided to delay the release of iOS 4.2 until they fix this bug. Before that though, Apple may even release a second golden master build, with the bug fixed -- and that could happen as early as tomorrow. If another GM is pushed out, the final release may be delayed by at least a week. Either way, iOS 4.2 is on track to reach consumers before Thanksgiving.

[via MacStories]

Download SquadiOS 4.2 may have been delayed due to an iPad Wi-Fi bug, new golden master could be on the way originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple ipadApple iPhoneapple iphone 4Apple iPod TouchAppleIpadAppleIphoneAppleIphone4AppleIpodTouchDelaydelayedIOSios 4.2Ios4.2ipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmobilemobile operating systemMobile OSMobileOperatingSystemMobileOsos updateOS updatesOsUpdateOsUpdatesFri, 12 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iOS 4.2 to become available on Friday?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/10/ios-4-2-to-become-available-on-friday/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/10/ios-4-2-to-become-available-on-friday/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/10/ios-4-2-to-become-available-on-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

iPad iOS 4.2 multitaskingApple is going to release iOS 4.2 on Friday, November 12, at 10 AM PST, according to what a source within AT&T has told MacStories. iOS 4.2 represents a major update of Apple's operating system for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad and will finally get them all on the same version of the OS. It will also make multitasking possible on the iPad.

The update was reportedly scheduled to go live last week, but a bug was found that didn't allow Japanese characters to be displayed properly -- and so Apple had to fix it before releasing the update. The iOS 4.2 golden master, which was made available to developers last week, should have been released on October 26, so it looks like its availability had been delayed by the aforementioned bug too.

Download SquadiOS 4.2 to become available on Friday? originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleapple ipadApple iPhoneapple iphone 4Apple iPod TouchAppleIpadAppleIphoneAppleIphone4AppleIpodTouchIOSiOS 4ios 4.2Ios4Ios4.2ipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmobileosupdatesWed, 10 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple releases Mac OS X 10.6.5, with tons of little fixes]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/10/apple-releases-mac-os-x-10-6-5-with-tons-of-little-fixes/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/10/apple-releases-mac-os-x-10-6-5-with-tons-of-little-fixes/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/10/apple-releases-mac-os-x-10-6-5-with-tons-of-little-fixes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Apple has released the latest version of its Snow Leopard operating system, Mac OS 10.6.5, which fixes a whole slew of little bugs and quirks, from improving Exchange support to fixing printer issues to syncing Address Book with Google Contacts. Snow Leopard users can get OS X 10.6.5 now by running Software Update.

The complete release notes -- much more thorough than Apple's usual vague "improves speed and stability' note -- are up on Apple.com, but here are some of the highlights:
  • Apple Mail should now play more nicely with Microsoft Exchange servers.
  • You can now use SSL with iDisk, to securely transfer your files to and from the cloud.
  • Address Book contacts can now be dragged to iCal without issues, and they can also be synced to Google Calendar/Google Contacts.
  • On the hardware compatibility front: Bluetooth now works more reliably for Apple's Magic Trackpad, third-party displays that use InstaPort should now work, and HP printers now work with Apple's Airport Extreme.
Although this isn't listed in the release notes, The Mac Observer reports that gamers will want to download Mac OS X 10.6.5 right away, because it's required for "high-end graphics options" in some games, including World of Warcraft.

Download SquadApple releases Mac OS X 10.6.5, with tons of little fixes originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applemacos xos x 10.6.5osupdatesOsXOsX10.6.5snow leopardSnowLeopardWed, 10 Nov 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 8 to feature built-in Azure-powered cloud backup?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/08/windows-8-to-feature-built-in-azure-powered-cloud-backup/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/08/windows-8-to-feature-built-in-azure-powered-cloud-backup/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/08/windows-8-to-feature-built-in-azure-powered-cloud-backup/#commentsFiled under: ,

It stands to reason that Windows 8 would feature some seriously kicked-up cloud integration features, and built-in backup certainly seems like a good place to start. If this new job posting out of Redmond is any indication, Microsoft seems to think so, too.

The posting states, "We are currently working on a Windows Azure-based service and integrating with certain Microsoft online services and Windows 8 client backup." While that wording could indicate that the feature would be reserved for domain-connected WIndows 8 Professional (or business, or... ) systems. The potential for a nice, juicy revenue stream from a hassle-free cloud backup option for all Windows 8 users should be enough incentive to include the feature in all versions, however.

[via Windows 8 Beta]

Download SquadWindows 8 to feature built-in Azure-powered cloud backup? originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azurebackupcloudmicrosoftosupdateswindows 8Windows8Mon, 08 Nov 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Android 2.3 Gingerbread rumored for November 11 release]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/05/android-2-3-gingerbread-release-november-11/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/05/android-2-3-gingerbread-release-november-11/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/05/android-2-3-gingerbread-release-november-11/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest version of Google's Android mobile OS, Android 2.3 Gingerbread, could be right around the corner, according to reports circulating online today. Intomobile.com has pegged November 11th as Gingerbread's release date, based on information from "a trusted source." The source says that's when the Android 2.3 SDK will be out, not the day Gingerbread actually begins rolling out to the general public. Previous rumors had pegged October for the launch.

Further evidence that Gingerbread might be near release: a large gingerbread man has been spotted on the Android lawn at the Google campus, joining the cupcake, froyo, donut, and eclair sculptures that represent previous Android releases. The froyo sculpture went up about a week before the Android 2.2 SDK came out, so it's no stretch to believe we'll be seeing the 2.3 SDK a week from now.

Download SquadAndroid 2.3 Gingerbread rumored for November 11 release originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3Android2.3gingerbreadgoogleosupdatesSDKFri, 05 Nov 2010 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrome OS: a look at Google's almost-ready operating system]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/03/chrome-os-a-look-at-google-almost-ready-operating-system/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/03/chrome-os-a-look-at-google-almost-ready-operating-system/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/03/chrome-os-a-look-at-google-almost-ready-operating-system/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With Google's new 'smartbook' Chrome OS almost ready for prime time, we decided to build a copy of Chromium OS ourselves and give it the once-over.

Looking through the gallery, you will notice that Chromium OS really is just a Chrome browser with a new Settings menu.There actually seem to be less features than when Lee last had a look -- gone is the Picasa integration, and Gmail lost its cool chat manager. The 'slideshow tab' is neat, though, and the 'docked' media player should be popular (you can't drag it away from the bottom of the screen, though).

This is the external, public version of the operating system though. There's every chance that the internal, commercial version -- Chrome OS -- might look different. Google has said on numerous occasions that the internal version is very similar, though, so the final version may really look just like this.

Gallery: A look at the almost-ready-for-release Chromium OS

Login screenMedia player, download managerSettings: basicsSettings: update pageCloud Print Beta... not yet working

Download SquadChrome OS: a look at Google's almost-ready operating system originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrome osChromeOschromiumosgallerynetbookoperating systemOperatingSystemososupdatesWed, 03 Nov 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[iOS 4.2 golden master now available to developers]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/02/ios-4-2-golden-master-now-available-to-developers/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/02/ios-4-2-golden-master-now-available-to-developers/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/02/ios-4-2-golden-master-now-available-to-developers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

iOS 4.2, the release of Apple's mobile operating system that will finally get the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad back on the same version of the OS, is now available to developers. The big news in iOS 4.2 is multitasking on the iPad, but 4.2 will be available for all iOS devices. Other new features include wireless printing via AirPrint, media streaming to Airport Express devices and AppleTVs, and changing fonts in the Notes app. Of course, you'll need to be in the iPhone Developer Program, or know someone who is, to get access.

Update: as with previous iOS golden masters, reports are coming in that your device doesn't need to be twinned with a developer account to activate. So maybe anyone can install this build!

[via Engadget]

Download SquadiOS 4.2 golden master now available to developers originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegolden masterGoldenMasterios 4.2Ios4.2ipadiphoneosupdatesTue, 02 Nov 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Half of all companies will continue to use Windows XP after it retires in 2014]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/01/half-of-all-companies-will-continue-to-use-windows-xp-after-it-r/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/01/half-of-all-companies-will-continue-to-use-windows-xp-after-it-r/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/01/half-of-all-companies-will-continue-to-use-windows-xp-after-it-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Windows XP IT adoptionAccording to a shocking report, 48% of IT administrators intend to continue running Windows XP after Microsoft officially retires it in 2014. The "IT [sector] just really, really likes the XP operating system," says Diane Hagglund, a senior analyst at Dimensional Research, reporting on the findings of a survey of 950 IT professionals. "They say it's just that good, and don't want to mess with it."

Windows XP might be really good, but its retirement in April 2014 means that it will no longer be supported by Microsoft -- there will be no more security fixes. That almost half of the IT sector intends to keep Windows XP installed -- it will be 13 years old in 2014! -- can only be indicative of two things: either Windows XP really is is that good, or IT professionals are lazy.

In other news, 6% of companies have now rolled out Windows 7, as opposed to only 1% back in January. "What's really interesting here is that if you look at the numbers, they've almost exactly adopted according to plan," said Hagglund. "That's a real indicator that Windows 7 migration is going well." With almost a quarter billion copies sold in the first 12 months, and the biggest market segment -- the workplace -- about to roll over, 2011 is looking good for Microsoft.

Download SquadHalf of all companies will continue to use Windows XP after it retires in 2014 originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>companyenterprisefirmitoperating systemOperatingSystemosupdateswindows xpWindowsXpMon, 01 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Russia to develop Linux-based Windows alternative to reduce its US tech dependence]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/28/russia-to-develop-linux-based-windows-alternative-to-reduce-US-tech-depdenence/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/28/russia-to-develop-linux-based-windows-alternative-to-reduce-US-tech-depdenence/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/28/russia-to-develop-linux-based-windows-alternative-to-reduce-US-tech-depdenence/#commentsFiled under: ,

Russia Windows alternative LinuxIn a move to decrease Russia's dependence on American technology, the Russian government has announced plans to develop a state-sponsored national operating system. Shifting away from Windows would mean both money savings for Russia, and increased digital security.

150 million rubles (5 million dollars) have been set aside to create an operating system that will be based on Linux. It's not yet known whether this national distro will be built from scratch, or simply a branch of a popular distro like Ubuntu. Speaking to AFP, Russian politician Ilya Ponomarev said "The devil is in the details," and that a meeting to decide the exact specifications of this new operating system would occur in December.

This move is a sign that Europe and Asia continue to be unnerved by the US-dominated technology industry. The last few years have seen a massive shift towards open-source software across Europe and Asia, and also a marked increase in the activity of European and Chinese space agencies.

Russia [System operates you!] won't be the first country to work on a national operating system either: China's Red Flag Linux first appeared back in 1999, and only last week India announced its plans to build a proprietary, hyper-secure operating system.

Download SquadRussia to develop Linux-based Windows alternative to reduce its US tech dependence originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinaosupdatesrussiatechnologywindowsworldThu, 28 Oct 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Service Pack 1 Release Candidate for both Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 now available]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/26/service-pack-1-release-candidate-for-both-windows-7-and-windows/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/26/service-pack-1-release-candidate-for-both-windows-7-and-windows/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/26/service-pack-1-release-candidate-for-both-windows-7-and-windows/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft Windows 7 Servie Pack 1Microsoft has announced that the Service Pack 1 Release Candidate for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 is now finally available to download and test. The download package is the same for both operating systems.

While Service Pack 1 is mainly a collection of all the previous updates the OS has received, there are a couple of interesting additions, namely RemoteFX and Dynamic Memory. RemoteFX enables host-based rendering of 3D graphics, allowing you to get the same rich graphic abilities you have on your machine even when you're remotely connecting to another computer. Dynamic Memory allows servers using Hyper-V to use memory more efficiently.

The final version of SP1 for both Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 is expected to hit in the first quarter of next year. And unless you need to test the state the SP is in now, you'd probably best wait for that to ship.

In case you want to download the RC, you need to go here and follow the instructions.

Download SquadService Pack 1 Release Candidate for both Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 now available originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MicrosoftMicrosoft Windowsmicrosoft windows 7MicrosoftWindowsMicrosoftWindows7osupdatesSP1windows 7windows 7 sp1Windows Server 2008 R2Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1Windows7Windows7Sp1WindowsServer2008R2WindowsServer2008R2Sp1Tue, 26 Oct 2010 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubuntu 11.04 Natty Narwhal - Unity replaces Gnome as default shell]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/25/ubuntu-11-04-natty-narwhal-unity-gnome-default-shell/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/25/ubuntu-11-04-natty-narwhal-unity-gnome-default-shell/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/25/ubuntu-11-04-natty-narwhal-unity-gnome-default-shell/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ubuntu Unity screenshot

Ubuntu founder Mark Shuttleworth has announced that the Unity shell currently used in Ubuntu's netbook edition will become the default user interface for Ubuntu's main desktop edition as well, starting with the next version of the operating system. Unity became Ubuntu's netbook UI with the release of the current version of the OS, 10.10 Maverick Meerkat.

Ubuntu 11.04 Natty Narwhal is set to be released before the end of April 2011, and will represent a significant milestone in Ubuntu's history. It will be the first version of the OS not to ship with the Gnome shell as the default UI. Gnome will continue to be the underlying framework, as Unity is based on it, but the interface layer will look nothing like Gnome.

The reasons for this shift are many, but consist mostly of differences of opinion between Ubuntu's leadership and the upstream developers of Gnome. According to Shuttleworth, Ubuntu tried to participate in the Gnome shell design process but found many philosophical differences that were impossible to reconcile. They decided to go their own way and improve Unity to the point at which it will become a viable replacement for the Gnome shell.

Gnome's rejection of global menus as well as performance issues with Gnome's new Mutter window manager are also to blame for Ubuntu's change of direction. A key factor was also multi-touch, and Shuttleworth's clear belief that extensive support for it should be built into the OS. Unity is already multi-touch-enabled in Ubuntu 10.10 but the plan is to bring richer touch interaction to the desktop with Ubuntu 11.04.

This move could anger at least some open source enthusiasts, but it probably shouldn't. Ubuntu is clearly trying to further differentiate itself in a Linux world filled with UIs and user experiences that are extremely similar. It is a risky bet, but Shuttleworth says that developers need not worry because fragmentation can be avoided by using FreeDesktop.org to ensure that desktop integration mechanisms are standardized and interoperable. Whether that will be enough to alleviate all possible issues or silence the critics of this decision remains to be seen.

The standard Gnome shell will continue to be available as a non-default installation option.

Download SquadUbuntu 11.04 Natty Narwhal - Unity replaces Gnome as default shell originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CanonicallinuxMark ShuttleworthMarkShuttleworthopensourceosupdatesubuntuUbuntu 10.10Ubuntu 10.10 Maverick MeerkatUbuntu 11.04Ubuntu 11.04 Natty Narwhalubuntu linuxubuntu netbook remixUbuntu10.10Ubuntu10.10MaverickMeerkatUbuntu11.04Ubuntu11.04NattyNarwhalUbuntuLinuxUbuntuNetbookRemixunityUnityUiMon, 25 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 8 release in 2012 hinted at by Microsoft Netherlands]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/24/windows-8-release-in-2012-hinted-at-by-microsoft-netherlands/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/24/windows-8-release-in-2012-hinted-at-by-microsoft-netherlands/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/24/windows-8-release-in-2012-hinted-at-by-microsoft-netherlands/#commentsFiled under: ,

There have been rumblings about the arrival of Windows 8 in 2012 as far back as late last year, when bloggers noticed some interesting slides during Microsoft PDC 2009. At the time, Microsoft's Steven Sinofsky was pretty quiet about the whole thing, but someone over at Microsoft Netherlands has been a little more loose-lipped.

The final paragraph of the post is where the juicy bit is hiding -- even if you don't read Dutch you can certainly see Windows 8. While the text translated somewhat awkwardly in Google Translate (and just about every other online translator we tried), and it rendered a somewhat odd-sounding English rendition, we were able to track down a Dutch-speaking human for assistance.

The result: "But it will take about two years before Windows 8 will be for sale."

Anyone else picture Ballmer shouting, "Who's the GOLD MASTER?!" while he holds that disk?

Thanks, Rahul!

Download SquadWindows 8 release in 2012 hinted at by Microsoft Netherlands originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 24 Oct 2010 08:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>osupdatesrumorwin8windows 8Windows8Sun, 24 Oct 2010 08:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 7 SP1 RC build leaked, actual RC download coming October 23?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/16/windows-7-sp1-rc-build-leaked-actual-rc-download-coming-october/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/16/windows-7-sp1-rc-build-leaked-actual-rc-download-coming-october/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/16/windows-7-sp1-rc-build-leaked-actual-rc-download-coming-october/#commentsFiled under:

Windows 7 SP1 has been in beta testing for some time now, so it only makes sense that a release candidate would be coming soon. Sooner than you may have thought, as it turns out: the Windows 7 SP1 RC escrow build has been leaked.

At this point, only the x86 version has surfaced and certain sites are also reporting that the leak is actually a pre-RC build and not the genuine article. Perhaps more important than the fact that yet another piece of pre-release Redmond software was leaked is the fact that the sources cited by IntoWindows indicate the official download could be available as soon as October 23.

Call me crazy, but I'd recommend waiting until next week rather than messing with a leaked build. Or, you know, waiting for the final build of Windows 7 SP1 when it hits. There's not a lot of excitement in the Service Pack anyway, unless you happen to be a network admin or virtualization junkie.

Pumpkin by flickr users zeusandhera

Download SquadWindows 7 SP1 RC build leaked, actual RC download coming October 23? originally appeared on Download Squad on Sat, 16 Oct 2010 06:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftosupdatessp1win7windows 7windows 7 sp1Windows7Windows7Sp1Sat, 16 Oct 2010 06:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's Chrome OS may launch on November 11]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/12/googles-chrome-os-may-launch-on-november-11/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/12/googles-chrome-os-may-launch-on-november-11/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/12/googles-chrome-os-may-launch-on-november-11/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Google Chrome OS settings

It looks like Chrome OS, Google's most anticipated software project of the year, is on the verge of finally launching. TechCrunch uncovered the fact that the browser-based OS has already hit Release Candidate stage, which is the step that comes right before a full-blown release. Most likely, Google's engineers are now hard at work squashing bugs and getting ready for Chrome OS 1.0.

Further evidence of this lies in a thread over at Google Code where a Google employee referenced 'November 11' a couple of times in reply to new feature requests. As in, Google would only consider adding new features after November 11. And that certainly makes sense, since usually while you prep a software project for release, you freeze any new feature additions and focus on ironing out the last kinks.

So it seems plausible that Google will release Chrome OS on November 11, or at least code-freeze it then and maybe wait until November 19 to unleash it - that's the one year anniversary of the event where they first showed it. Either way, they will be able to make that initially promised 'in time for the holiday season 2010' target after all. And Chrome OS-powered netbooks (or even tablets) could be on your lap very soon.

Download SquadGoogle's Chrome OS may launch on November 11 originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrome osChromeOsgooglegoogle chrome osgoogle-chromeGoogleChromeOsopen sourceopensourceosupdatesTue, 12 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 7 Family Pack returns (while supplies last)]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/04/windows-7-family-pack/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/04/windows-7-family-pack/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/04/windows-7-family-pack/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last month, Microsoft announced that the Windows 7 Family Pack would be back in time to celebrate Windows 7's first birthday. Well, that delicious 3-licenses-for-$150 package has returned to the Microsoft Store and various US retailers. It will be available outside the US starting on October 22nd.

With the Family Pack, you get three Windows 7 Home Premium licenses, which includes Microsoft's home networking software, HomeGroup. You also get Windows Live Essentials, now with the addition of the Windows Live Mesh syncing app. Basically, this is the cheapest way to go if your household has more than one Windows machine. The only catch is that it's a limited run, so you have to get it while supplies last.

For more info, and a list of countries that will get the Family Pack -- some new ones have been added to the list since the last time this deal was available -- check the official WIndows Team blog.

Download SquadWindows 7 Family Pack returns (while supplies last) originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>family packFamilyPackhomegroupmicrosoftosupdateswindows 7Windows 7 Home PremiumWindows7Windows7HomePremiumMon, 04 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST