Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com Download Squad http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/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[Angry Birds Rio for Symbian lands in Nokia's Ovi Store]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/angry-birds-rio-for-symbian-lands-in-nokias-ovi-store/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/angry-birds-rio-for-symbian-lands-in-nokias-ovi-store/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/angry-birds-rio-for-symbian-lands-in-nokias-ovi-store/#commentsAngry Birds Rio for SymbianAngry Birds is one franchise that sure gives new meaning to the word cross-platform. Angry Birds Rio, the latest installment in the bird-slinging series from Rovio Mobile, is now available in Nokia's Ovi Store, ready to fly to your Symbian device. Angry Birds Rio has so far been spotted on iOS, Android, and webOS.

As with the versions for all the other platforms, Angry Birds Rio for Symbian has a story that's a bit different to what fans of the franchise have seen so far. The original Angry Birds are kidnapped and taken to Rio de Janeiro, where they manage to escape their captors and subsequently set out to save their friends, Blu and Jewel -- two macaws that incidentally are also the stars of the movie Rio. The gameplay is mostly unchanged though, and you get two episodes right now, with more episodic updates promised, for free, in May, July, October, and November.

Angry Birds Rio is only available for devices running the 'new Symbian', also known as Symbian^3. At the moment, these are the Nokia N8, E7, C7, and C6-01.

Download Angry Birds Rio for Symbian from the Ovi Store

Download SquadAngry Birds Rio for Symbian lands in Nokia's Ovi Store originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry birdsangry birds rioAngryBirdsAngryBirdsRioappsgamegamingnokiaSymbianSymbian 3Symbian3Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Auslogics Disk Defrag 3.2 gets smarter, faster]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/auslogics-disk-defrag-3-2-gets-smarter-faster/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/auslogics-disk-defrag-3-2-gets-smarter-faster/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/auslogics-disk-defrag-3-2-gets-smarter-faster/#comments auslogics defrag
Auslogics Disk Defrag has been part of my system maintenance toolkit for quite some time. With the release of version 3.2, it's now even better at tidying up and optimizing your system's hard disk drives. In addition to a cleaner, easier-to-use interface, Disk Defrag 3.2 offers improved single file and folder defragging, better processing of multiple disks, a simplified scheduling screen, and more informative tool tips. Auslogics has also fine-tuned the program's defragmentation and file consolidation algorithms.

For laptop users, there's a new option to lock the program if your system is running on battery power -- so scheduled operations don't kick in and drain your power source at an inopportune moment. If you happen to have an SSD installed in your PC, you can head to the Disk Defrag options and exclude it from scanning (many think that defragmenting an SSD is a very bad idea).

Auslogics Disk Defrag is a free download and works with most versions of Windows.

Download SquadAuslogics Disk Defrag 3.2 gets smarter, faster originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsauslogicsdefragdefragglerdefragmentdisk defragDiskDefraghard driveHardDriveoptimizeutilitieswindowsMon, 11 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 8 App Store images leaked?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/windows-8-app-store-images-leaked/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/windows-8-app-store-images-leaked/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/windows-8-app-store-images-leaked/#comments windows 8 app store Windows 8 images continue to leak onto the Internet, despite Microsoft's wallpaper-based pleas to those with access to the early releases. Today's installment courtesy CNBeta shows the upcoming Windows App Store, which will likely feature prominently in Windows 8.

We've got our doubts about the authenticity of the image. In addition to showing several of the built-in games which already ship with Windows, Opera is listed -- and a competing browser seems like an odd inclusion this early on. Of course, with the browser ballot still in place in the EU for quite some time, Microsoft would probably need to include rivals like Opera and Firefox to stay out of trouble. We're also not sure why Clickgamer is shown beneath Angry Birds instead of Rovio -- the game's actual publisher.

It's still early, of course, so it's entirely possible that the Windows App Store image is genuine but merely using placeholder images and text for now. Anyone else thinking Windows Marketplace might be a more logical name? You know, to keep things consistent with Windows Phone and keep Apple's legal eagles at bay.

Download SquadWindows 8 App Store images leaked? originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsleakmarketplacemilestone 3Milestone3win8windowswindows 8windows app storeWindows8WindowsAppStoreMon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Firefox Nightly and Aurora logos unearthed, and how to enable channel switching]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/new-firefox-nightly-and-aurora-logos-unearthed-and-how-to-enabl/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/new-firefox-nightly-and-aurora-logos-unearthed-and-how-to-enabl/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/new-firefox-nightly-and-aurora-logos-unearthed-and-how-to-enabl/#comments Firefox Nightly and Aurora logos Later today, Firefox will undergo its biggest developmental upheaval ever. Mozilla-central, the source of nightly builds, will be renumbered to version 5 -- and at long last, after years of wallowing around version 1, Mozilla's rendering and layout engine, Gecko, will also have its version number updated to match Firefox.

Shortly thereafter, Firefox's new channel system will be implemented. Firefox 5a2 will be introduced as the first Aurora build, and we should also see a Firefox 6 Nightly build. While we we're not sure where they came from, one Sören Hentzschel seems to have unearthed the new Nightly and Aurora logos (see above), along with new About Firefox dialogs (after the break).

In other news, if you want to take a sneak peek at the new 'channel changing' technology that will be introduced in upcoming Firefox builds, head to about:config and create a new string called app.update.desiredChannel -- the value doesn't matter. Then open Help > About Firefox and you'll be able to switch channel, but it doesn't do anything just yet (image after the break). Here's hoping that Firefox channel switching is smoother than Chrome.

Continue reading New Firefox Nightly and Aurora logos unearthed, and how to enable channel switching

Download SquadNew Firefox Nightly and Aurora logos unearthed, and how to enable channel switching originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 07:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaappsaurorabetabrowserschannelfirefoxfirefox 5firefox 6Firefox5Firefox6mozillanightlywebMon, 11 Apr 2011 07:35:00 EST<![CDATA[You can now rent Adobe Photoshop for $35 per month, CS 5.5 available soon]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/you-can-now-rent-adobe-photoshop-for-29-per-month/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/you-can-now-rent-adobe-photoshop-for-29-per-month/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/you-can-now-rent-adobe-photoshop-for-29-per-month/#comments Rejoice! No longer will you have to fork over $700 for a Photoshop CS5 license! Adobe has unveiled a new subscription scheme where you can rent the entire Creative Suite, or individual packages, by the month, or for an entire year.

Adobe Photoshop can be yours for $35 per month if you agree to rent it for 12 months, or $49 per month if you require its services for a shorter period. Dreamweaver can be had for even cheaper, at just $19 per month. The entire Master Collection is still rather expensive, though, at $125 per month.

Today, Adobe also ushered in the release of Creative Suite 5.5, and simultaneously upped its release cycle from 18 months to 24 months. This means, if you rent Photoshop for two years, it's actually the same cost as buying it outright. There's no rent-to-own option, though -- so you wouldn't have access to the cheaper upgrade price once Creative Suite 6 rolls around next year. Still, if you need access to Photoshop, After Effects or Premiere for a one-time project, the new rental scheme could be exactly what you're looking for.

In other news, Adobe has announced that it will be launching three rather exciting iPad apps that work in conjunction with Photoshop: Eazel, Nav, and Color Lava. Eazel lets you five-finger paint on your iPad, and export the result into Photoshop; Nav acts as some kind of workspace, brush and menu extension, and the hopefully named Color Lava is a paint mixing palette. The apps are expected to appear in the App Store in the next 30 days.

Download SquadYou can now rent Adobe Photoshop for $35 per month, CS 5.5 available soon originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobeadobe creative suiteadobe photoshopAdobeCreativeSuiteAdobePhotoshopappscolor lavaColorLavacreative suiteCreativeSuitecs 5.5cs5Cs5.5eazelnavwindowsMon, 11 Apr 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultrasn0w 1.2.1 carrier unlock now available for jailbroken iPhones running iOS 4.3.1]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/ultrasn0w-1-2-1-carrier-unlock-now-available-for-jailbroken-ipho/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/ultrasn0w-1-2-1-carrier-unlock-now-available-for-jailbroken-ipho/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/11/ultrasn0w-1-2-1-carrier-unlock-now-available-for-jailbroken-ipho/#commentsultrasn0w 1.2.1Anyone who relies on a carrier unlock to use their iPhone on another GSM carrier, can now take the iOS 4.3.1 plunge thanks to ultrasn0w 1.2.1. The iPhone Dev-Team have worked their magic to make ultrasn0w functional once again for the iPhone 4 (GSM), 3GS and 3G, and to correct a signal bar issue for anyone maintaining an older baseband but not using an unlock.

It's important to note that this isn't a new carrier unlock, and still requires an older baseband. Therefore if you're intending to upgrade to iOS 4.3.1 make sure you use something like Pwnage Tool to maintain your existing baseband, and do not just upgrade using iTunes in the hope of using redsn0w to jailbreak, as that will result in ultrasn0w being locked out.

Once you've jailbroken your iPhone using Pwnage Tool, fire up Cydia and search for ultrasn0w to get your carrier unlock installed, then just reboot your phone. Voila! Carrier unlocked.

Download SquadUltrasn0w 1.2.1 carrier unlock now available for jailbroken iPhones running iOS 4.3.1 originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscarrier unlockCarrierUnlockcellphonesiOSiPhoneiPhone dev teamIphoneDevTeamultrasn0wutilitiesMon, 11 Apr 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Hotpot finally (and fully) merged into Places]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-hotpot-finally-and-fully-merged-into-places/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-hotpot-finally-and-fully-merged-into-places/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-hotpot-finally-and-fully-merged-into-places/#comments It's taken months of confused looks, but Google's finally seen the light. Hotpot, which has been a universally scorned moniker for a service that just about everyone called Places, is now simply lumped in with Places.

The actual differences between Hotpot and Places were nearly non-existent, especially when dealing with the mobile aspect (which was even worse, since finding and rating restaurants and other venues is typically done on a smartphone, not a desktop). When it came down to it, Hotpot was basically just the rating/reviewing system for Places -- so while it probably started off as a separate project, it was destined to be gobbled up by the bigger app from the get go.

So, now that the hideous name is over and done with, Places can go on to gain popularity alongside its older sibling, Latitude -- and we can definitely expect both of them to get a major boost now that check-in deals have been brought into the mix.

Download SquadGoogle Hotpot finally (and fully) merged into Places originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonesgooglehyperlocallocalmobileratingrestaurantssocialvenuesFri, 08 Apr 2011 19:07:00 EST<![CDATA[SeaMonkey, Mozilla's all-in-one Internet suite, releases new beta]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/seamonkey-2-1-beta-3-is-out-brings-many-new-features/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/seamonkey-2-1-beta-3-is-out-brings-many-new-features/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/seamonkey-2-1-beta-3-is-out-brings-many-new-features/#comments SeaMonkey 2.1 Beta 3 The SeaMonkey Project has released SeaMonkey 2.1 Beta 3, a version that makes a lot of new functionality available to a wide audience for the first time. A lot of stuff has been added and tweaked since SeaMonkey 2.1 Beta 2 hit the streets back in February, and we're now one step closer to the final release of version 2.1 of the integrated Internet app suite.

SeaMonkey 2.1 Beta 3 lets you enter Safe Mode from the Help menu, and you can permanently apply some of the Safe Mode settings if you so wish. When a plug-in crashes, you're now instantly presented with options, such as reloading the page. Built-in extensions such as ChatZilla, JavaScript debugger, DOM inspector, and DebugQA are now installed by default. SeaMonkey Sync has received an easier setup process, and Windows 7 jump lists are now supported. Also added are detection of outdated plug-ins, WebGL support, an optional search bar (including suggestions for search engines that support them), an engine manager for OpenSearch, and plug-ins now work in feeds shown in MailNews windows.

ChatZilla is working again, as are the JavaScript Debugger Venkman, as well as download progress display in the Windows 7 taskbar. Restoring large browser sessions has been improved, and you can even switch tabs by mouse scrolling.

This being a beta, the obvious warnings apply: stuff may break, bugs may show up everywhere, and generally speaking you probably shouldn't use this version as your daily driver -- at least not from the get-go, without having tested it for a while first.

Download SeaMonkey 2.1 Beta 3

Download SquadSeaMonkey, Mozilla's all-in-one Internet suite, releases new beta originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbetabrowsersfreeInternetLinuxMacOSXproductivityseamonkeySeaMonkey 2.1seamonkey 2.1 beta 3Seamonkey2.1Seamonkey2.1Beta3utilitieswindowsFri, 08 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Angry Birds Rio catapults into webOS App Catalog]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/angry-birds-rio-catapults-into-webos-app-catalog/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/angry-birds-rio-catapults-into-webos-app-catalog/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/angry-birds-rio-catapults-into-webos-app-catalog/#comments Angry Birds Rio webOS
After having been available for iOS and Android for around a couple of weeks, Angry Birds Rio, the latest edition of the casual gaming megahit, has finally reached webOS as well.

Angry Birds Rio has two episodes that contain over 60 new levels at the moment, but episodic updates are promised to arrive throughout this year. Let's not forget that Angry Birds Rio brings the biggest change to the franchise yet -- you no longer aim for little green pigs. This time, in fact, your anger is directed at monkeys who are to blame for holding other fowl hostage in cages.

Buy Angry Birds Rio for webOS for $1.99 from the webOS App Catalog

Download SquadAngry Birds Rio catapults into webOS App Catalog originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry birdsangry birds rioAngryBirdsAngryBirdsRioappsgamesgamingwebosFri, 08 Apr 2011 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Latitude check-in deals now available across the US]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-latitude-check-in-deals-now-available-across-the-us/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-latitude-check-in-deals-now-available-across-the-us/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/google-latitude-check-in-deals-now-available-across-the-us/#comments Recently, Google has been busy beefing up Latitude to make it more competitive with other location apps -- and more fun to use. Location history was added recently, iOS users can post check-ins via Latitude, and now Google has begun rolling out location-based deals which are tied to the service.

If you're in the U.S., you can now score local savings at participating merchants by checking in with Latitude. Google will also be offering "status deals," which users can unlock by visiting a particular merchant on a regular basis. Mashable notes three status levels: regular, VIP, and guru -- though partners can apparently customize those titles if they choose.

Right now deals are available from merchants like American Eagle Outfitters, Arby's, Finish Line, Macy's, Quiznos, and RadioShack.

Download SquadGoogle Latitude check-in deals now available across the US originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscheck-incheckindealdealsfacebook dealsFacebookDealsgooglegoogle latitudeGoogleLatitudegrouponhyperlocallatitudelocallocationFri, 08 Apr 2011 08:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple orders iCab iOS browser to cripple JavaScript modules]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/apple-orders-icab-ios-browser-to-cripple-javascript-modules/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/apple-orders-icab-ios-browser-to-cripple-javascript-modules/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/apple-orders-icab-ios-browser-to-cripple-javascript-modules/#comments The developer of iCab Mobile, a feature-rich alternative to the Safari Web browser on iPad and iPhone, has been ordered by Apple to remove its ability to download and install JavaScript modules.

Presumably it's not the fact that iCab can execute JavaScript that's causing Apple to apoplectically puff and splutter, but rather its ability to download modules. Both Apple and Google frown upon apps that contain market-like functionality, and someone at Apple probably thought that iCab's JavaScript modules looked like a bit too much like discrete apps.

Alexander Clauss, iCab's developer, has rather a lot to say on the matter. "Maybe if I would have called the modules 'smart bookmarks' and would have made installing them much more complicated, Apple would have never asked to remove the ability to download them from the internet. The great user experience of installing modules has probably created a suspicion that these modules are more than just a piece of JavaScript code. From a pure technical point of view, if Apple does not allow to download modules (JavaScript code), Apple would also have to disallow to load web pages in general, because these do also contain JavaScript code."

In conclusion, to circumvent Apple's draconian decree, iCab Mobile now simply comes bundled with some 20 JavaScript modules. The ability to download modules made by third-party developers has been disabled, however -- but even then, Clauss says that you can simply contact him and ask for your module to be bundled with the next version of iCab.

Download iCab Mobile for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch ($1.99)

Download SquadApple orders iCab iOS browser to cripple JavaScript modules originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleappsAppStoreicabicab mobileIcabMobileiosipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchjavascriptjavascript modulesJavascriptModulesmobilemoduleswebFri, 08 Apr 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Adblock Plus developer pokes holes in Mozilla's new add-on performance tests]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/adblock-plus-developer-pokes-holes-in-mozillas-new-add-on-perfo/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/adblock-plus-developer-pokes-holes-in-mozillas-new-add-on-perfo/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/adblock-plus-developer-pokes-holes-in-mozillas-new-add-on-perfo/#comments Wladimir Palant, developer of the most popular add-on in the world, Adblock Plus, is also an active contributor to the Planet Mozilla blog community. Over the last few days, in response to Mozilla's new name and shame list of slow add-ons, Palant has been investigating whether Mozilla's testing methods are actually accurate.

Rather surprisingly, it turns out that Mozilla's numbers could be significantly wrong -- and if they're not wrong, the factors that Mozilla uses to tabulate an add-ons final score should definitely be made more transparent.

In the first set of tests, Palant shows that FlashGot's position in the top 10 is probably due to a fault in Mozilla's testing setup, and that add-ons can perform very differently depending on which operating system they're being tested on. In the second analysis, Palant uncovers an irregularity that doesn't seem to have an obvious cause -- but it could be due to an I/O bottleneck on Mozilla's test machines. Basically, even though performance testing of Read It Later is disabled because of a bug, it still (somehow!) manages to record a 14% slow-down on Windows 7.

Palant concludes both analyses by scolding Mozilla for going public with the performance data before its testing methods had been confirmed accurate. It definitely looks like Mozilla has been more than a little reckless, considering the importance of Firefox's add-on ecosystem.

Download SquadAdblock Plus developer pokes holes in Mozilla's new add-on performance tests originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 05:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adblock plusAdblockPlusadd-onadd-onsaddonaddonsappsbrowsersextensionextensionsfirefoxfirefox 4Firefox4mozillaperformancespeedtestingwebwladimir palantWladimirPalantFri, 08 Apr 2011 05:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Telus recruits Leonard Nimoy to vet your Facebook status updates]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/telus-recruits-leonard-nimoy-to-vet-your-facebook-status-updates/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/telus-recruits-leonard-nimoy-to-vet-your-facebook-status-updates/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/08/telus-recruits-leonard-nimoy-to-vet-your-facebook-status-updates/#comments What Would Leonard Nimoy Say Have you ever thought your Facebook status updates lacked finesse? Ever regretted saying that to the whole of Facebook about 30 seconds after hitting send? Ever wished you had your own personal Leonard Nimoy to proof read your mind-dumps before you make a fool of yourself? Yes, me too, and now you can!

Brought to you by Telus, What Would Leonard Nimoy Say (WWLNS) is a Facebook app, which allows you to run your status updates past the legendary sci-fi actor before slapping them up on Facebook. To use the app you must 'Like' it, and sacrifice your https connection if you happen to have it enabled, but that's the price you pay to have Spock proof read your inane musings.

Check out Telus on Facebook to take the app for a whirl, and jump on over to Engadget to see more Nimoy-Telus combinations.

Download SquadTelus recruits Leonard Nimoy to vet your Facebook status updates originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 03:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsFacebookLeonard NimoyLeonardNimoysocial networkingSocialNetworkingTelusWebWWLNSFri, 08 Apr 2011 03:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft releases sexy Bing app for iPad]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/microsoft-releases-sexy-bing-app-for-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/microsoft-releases-sexy-bing-app-for-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/microsoft-releases-sexy-bing-app-for-ipad/#comments It's still a bit odd seeing Microsoft deliver apps for Apple's mobile platform. And it's even stranger still to see one as sexy as the new Bing app for iPad, which brings a slick, immersive search experience to Apple's tablet.

Just as a regular search on bing.com will, the Bing app for iPad tailors the results it displays based on what you're searching for. There are loads of custom views, covering everything from movies and maps to weather and shopping. The app also offers a heads-up display of currently trending searches, complete with related images, which is an iPad-exclusive feature.

Navigation is a breeze thanks to multitouch controls, allowing users to flick or swipe through results. And while the development team refers to the app as "touch and decide," Bing Voice Search is also built in -- making it easy to start a query without using the iPad's on-screen keyboard.

The Bing app for iPad is available for download now from the App Store.

Download SquadMicrosoft releases sexy Bing app for iPad originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbingiosipadmicrosoftmobilesearchtabletThu, 07 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype for Linux gets an update after almost 15 months]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/skype-for-linux-gets-an-update-after-almost-15-months/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/skype-for-linux-gets-an-update-after-almost-15-months/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/skype-for-linux-gets-an-update-after-almost-15-months/#comments Skype for Linux download page
Proving how much it cares about those people who use its app on Linux, Skype has released version 2.2 for Linux. Don't run towards the champagne though, as this is still a beta version, and, as its minor revision number implies, isn't the much-awaited big new version that achieves feature parity with its Windows and Mac brethren.

It's only been what, almost 15 months since the last Skype beta for Linux? Well, during this time, Skype's main focus has clearly been improving its Linux app, since the new version fixes the amazing number of 49 bugs. It also brings 23 'improvements', and yet somehow still manages to have a fair share of 'known issues'. Exciting, no?

What is perhaps the most important feature addition here is the support for Skype Access. This lets you easily connect to paid Wi-Fi hotspots across the globe while paying for them with Skype credit. Skype for Linux has also received support for call waiting and holding, as well as easy conference hosting. Audio and video quality have been boosted (hopefully in a way that's going to be noticeable in day-to-day use), and some of the languages have been updated.

Download Skype 2.2.0.25 for Linux

Download SquadSkype for Linux gets an update after almost 15 months originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsaudiocall holdingCall WaitingCallHoldingCallWaitingconference callConferenceCallLinuxskypeskype 2.2 betaskype 2.2 for linuxskype accessskype for linuxSkype2.2BetaSkype2.2ForLinuxSkypeAccessSkypeForLinuxvideovoipThu, 07 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LinkedIn app for Android now available]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/linkedin-app-for-android-now-available/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/linkedin-app-for-android-now-available/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/linkedin-app-for-android-now-available/#comments LinkedIn for Android LinkedIn, the 'professional' social network, has finally launched an Android app. The app has previously been available in beta for a while. The final version includes support for messages, as well as a new Reconnect button, which suggests people you may know based on your profile and current connections. LinkedIn for Android obviously has all the features you'd expect, making it easy to connect with fellow LinkedIn users from your smartphone.

The app lets you post status updates, view updates from your contacts, view your contacts' profiles, add new contacts, search for LinkedIn users (this can be either limited to your contacts, or it can go through the entire user base), and respond to invitations.

LinkedIn expects to improve its Android app in future versions by adding some features that "have been heavily requested during the public Beta".

Download LinkedIn for Android for free from the Android Market, from LinkedIn directly, or just point your Android smartphone to m.linkedin.com/android

Download SquadLinkedIn app for Android now available originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsbusinesslinkedinlinkedin for androidLinkedinForAndroidsocial networkingSocialNetworkingThu, 07 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New software uses facial recognition to defend against prying eyes]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/new-software-uses-facial-recognition-to-defend-against-prying-ey/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/new-software-uses-facial-recognition-to-defend-against-prying-ey/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/new-software-uses-facial-recognition-to-defend-against-prying-ey/#comments Having the right programs and hardware to keep the information on your display safe from prying eyes is never a bad idea, and new software from Oculis Labs offers a very interesting take on how to do just that. It's called PrivateEye, and it utilizes facial recognition to automatically pixelate the contents of your display when you look away.

If you step away from your system and someone else decides to sit down and poke around, PrivateEye will present a confusing jumble of garbled text. It'll even notify you if someone tries to peek over your shoulder -- and display a picture of your peeping Tom, throw up an alert, or sound an alarm.

Check out the video embed after the break, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Continue reading New software uses facial recognition to defend against prying eyes

Download SquadNew software uses facial recognition to defend against prying eyes originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsfacial recognitionFacialRecognitionoculispeeping tomPeepingTomprivacyprivatreeyesecuritywindowsThu, 07 Apr 2011 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Skype 5.3 for Windows released, improves mobile video call quality]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/skype-5-3-for-windows-released-improves-mobile-video-call-quali/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/skype-5-3-for-windows-released-improves-mobile-video-call-quali/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/skype-5-3-for-windows-released-improves-mobile-video-call-quali/#comments Version 5.3 of Skype for Windows has just been released, with the main emphasis of the new release being improved call quality, and the quality of video received by mobile Skype users. Presumably one party of the video call must be using Skype for Windows 5.3, though.

Beyond improved call quality, not much has changed. You can now see your friends' presence icons when contact cards are collapsed, and the topic editing button is now always visible on the conversation header. For a complete list of changes, hit up the Skype Garage blog.

Download Skype 5.3 for Windows

Download SquadSkype 5.3 for Windows released, improves mobile video call quality originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsmobilemobile video callingMobileVideoCallingskypeskype 5.3Skype5.3video callingVideoCallingvoipwebwindowsThu, 07 Apr 2011 12:17:00 EST<![CDATA[AVG launches LiveKive cloud sync and backup tool]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/avg-launches-livekive-cloud-sync-and-backup-tool/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/avg-launches-livekive-cloud-sync-and-backup-tool/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/avg-launches-livekive-cloud-sync-and-backup-tool/#comments avg livekive dropbox A while back, we told you about AVG's new LiveKive service, a new cloud synchronization and backup tool which appears to have been named after a vat in which mash is made during the brewing process. But enough about AVG's odd choice of monikers -- LiveKive has launched and is now ready to accept your files into the AVG cloud.

LiveKive takes aim at services like Dropbox and SugarSync, though at the moment it's lagging behind in terms of features. As it stands, LiveKive is only compatible with Windows and OS X. There are no mobile clients yet, though with AVG's strong presence on Android we wouldn't be surprised to see an app arrive in the near future.

The company is offering a heck of a deal right now, however. If you sign up for a paid account during the launch phase, you can score unlimited storage for $80 for a whole year. You can't even score 50GB per year at that price from Dropbox, so if cost and space are more important to you than cross-platform availability, LiveKive might be worth checking out.

If you're not interested in ponying up any cash at the moment, you can still get a 5GB account free of charge. Just head on over, and create a LiveKive account.

Download SquadAVG launches LiveKive cloud sync and backup tool originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsavgbackupclouddropboxlivekivemacos xOsXstoragesugarsyncsyncwindowsThu, 07 Apr 2011 10:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Opera 11.10 includes improved power saving features]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/opera-11-10-includes-improved-power-saving-features/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/opera-11-10-includes-improved-power-saving-features/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/opera-11-10-includes-improved-power-saving-features/#comments opera 11.10 battery power Just recently, the Opera 11.10 release candidate was made available for download. It brought a handful of important feature additions -- like HTML5 File API support and IMAP enhancements -- and loads of bugfixes. Nestled in amongst the other details in the Opera team's announcement is one more interesting tidbit: Opera 11.10 offers improved battery optimizations.

The timing here is certainly interesting, what with Microsoft's recent report on how much power the top five Web browsers consume. In its findings, Opera 11 was fairly low in the standings. While we've not seen any new benchmarks yet, we're curious to know whether the Opera 11.10 RC offers any significant gains.

If you're running Opera 11.10 on a laptop, let us know if you're seeing an improvement in your battery life while browsing!

Download SquadOpera 11.10 includes improved power saving features originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbarracudabatterybrowserbrowsersefficiencygreenlaptoplinuxmacoperaopera 11.10Opera11.10power savingsPowerSavingswebwindowsThu, 07 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GNOME 3 released, ushers in an interesting amalgam of iOS and OS X]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/gnome-3-released-ushers-in-an-interesting-amalgam-of-ios-and-os/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/gnome-3-released-ushers-in-an-interesting-amalgam-of-ios-and-os/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/gnome-3-released-ushers-in-an-interesting-amalgam-of-ios-and-os/#comments GNOME 3 desktop manager GNOME 3, after more than two years of development, has been released into the wild. GNOME 3 is not merely the logical successor of GNOME 2: it is an entirely new project, started from scratch, to create a "completely new, modern desktop designed for today's users and technologies."

The best way to check out GNOME 3's new features -- and it has lots of new features -- is to run a live version of openSUSE or Fedora, or simply head over to the GNOME 3 website and watch the (rather pretty) introductory videos. If you want a synopsis, though, here it is: GNOME 3 looks a lot like Mac OS X, with a healthy dollop of iOSesqueness for good measure, but yet it still somehow retains an underlying feel of Linux.

The overall aesthetic is very simple, very elegant, and despite being slightly out of fashion, there are plenty of rounded corners, too. The main addition, workflow-wise, is the addition of an app-launcher-cum-alt-tab screen, where you can launch apps, or flip through your open windows. For a complete list of the new features and changes, check the GNOME 3 release notes.

Despite GNOME 3 being officially launched, there aren't actually any releases for existing, stable Linux distros -- it's the live CD/USB images, or Ubuntu users will have to wait for the launch of 11.04 for a GNOME 3 PPA, but it will break Unity in the process. Fedora users will have to wait for for the May 24 release of Fedora 15. Of course, if you're feeling crazy, you can always build GNOME 3 from source.

Download SquadGNOME 3 released, ushers in an interesting amalgam of iOS and OS X originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 06:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desktop managerDesktopManagerfedoragnomegnome 3gnome projectGnome3GnomeProjectlinuxopensuseubuntuwindow managerWindowManagerThu, 07 Apr 2011 06:40:00 EST<![CDATA[First Firefox 6 build next week, Firefox 7 by May, and aurora channel introduced]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/first-firefox-6-build-next-week-firefox-7-by-may-and-aurora-ch/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/first-firefox-6-build-next-week-firefox-7-by-may-and-aurora-ch/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/first-firefox-6-build-next-week-firefox-7-by-may-and-aurora-ch/#comments Firefox 5, 6, 7 and release channels Mozilla's Engineering Project Manager, Christian Legnitto, has detailed the release schedule for Firefox 5, 6 and 7. If all goes to plan, Firefox 6.0a1 will be released next week, April 12, and Firefox 7.0a1 in the middle of May. The final build of Firefox 5 should be released on June 21, exactly three months after the release of Firefox 4.

Along with the faster 6-week release cadence, Firefox's new Chrome-like release channels have also been given names and anticipated update frequencies. The most notable change is the introduction of a new alpha channel -- which is analogous to Chrome Canary -- that will be called 'aurora' and will update nightly. Aurora will be where fixes and features are tested, and either approved for Beta, or backed out to Central. Aurora will have a new icon, too.

The Nightly (mozilla-central) channel will remain unchanged in name and frequency, but it will gain a new 'nightly icon.' The Beta (mozilla-beta) channel will remain as-is, with new builds rolling out weekly. The Release (mozilla-release) channel will also remain as-is, with security and stability updates coming every 6 to 12 weeks.

It should be noted that the names (including 'aurora') are not necessarily final, but it's unlikely that they'll change. We're also awaiting the arrival of the new 'channel switching' technology, which should arrive in the next few days -- in time for the release of Firefox 6 aurora!

Download SquadFirst Firefox 6 build next week, Firefox 7 by May, and aurora channel introduced originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 05:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurorabetachannelfirefoxfirefox 5firefox 6firefox 7Firefox5Firefox6Firefox7mozillanightlyrelease channelReleaseChannelThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Office 2011 SP1 for Mac arriving next week with Outlook improvements]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/microsoft-office-2011-sp1-for-mac-arriving-next-week-with-outloo/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/microsoft-office-2011-sp1-for-mac-arriving-next-week-with-outloo/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/07/microsoft-office-2011-sp1-for-mac-arriving-next-week-with-outloo/#comments Microsoft Office 2011 for Mac SP1 Microsoft's Business Unit, the Mac software arm of the Redmond-based software giant, is set to release its first Service Pack for Office 2011 for Mac. Just like most updates of this nature, SP1 will address a myriad of bugs, and roll in most of the hotfixes that came before it into one, easy to install package.

SP1 will also address Outlook's syncing support, with the BU adding calendar support for Sync Services allowing you to finally sync Outlook calendars with iCal and other local calendars, as well as syncing iDevices hooked up through iTunes. For Office 2008 upgraders, this was one of the features removed in the Entourage to Outlook switch, so it's nice to see it finally make an appearance in Outlook. The irony here is that Outlook will no longer be able to sync with your MobileMe calendar when it's upgraded to the new version on the 5th of May, or before if you've jumped the gun early, as Apple has removed Sync Services support from MobileMe by turning to CalDAV. Nothing to do with Microsoft here of course, and it shouldn't be long before something gets worked out.

Outlook has also been bestowed with the ability to edit server-side Exchange rules, something our friends at TUAW pointed out, have been missing on the Mac since Office 2001 for Mac OS 9. The email Redirect and Resend buttons have also made an appearance, allowing you to send mail onto the intended recipient without being caught in the email chain for replies. Excel also gets some love from SP1 with improved Solver integration support, which should be handy for those attempting to use equations in Excel.

Look to Microsoft Autoupdate on your Mac starting next week, or visit the Microsoft Mac download center to update manually once it becomes available.

Download SquadMicrosoft Office 2011 SP1 for Mac arriving next week with Outlook improvements originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 03:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsMicrosoftOffice 2011Office 2011 SP1Office2011Office2011Sp1OS XOsXproductivityservice packServicePackThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Zoho Docs 2.0 adds iPad support]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/zoho-docs-2-0-app-for-ipad-arrives/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/zoho-docs-2-0-app-for-ipad-arrives/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/zoho-docs-2-0-app-for-ipad-arrives/#comments zoho docs ipad Zoho has offered an iOS app for a while now -- at least for the iPhone and iPod touch. Those of you who have been wanting to use the Zoho app on your iPad were out of luck, but that's no longer the case.

Zoho Docs 2.0 has landed in the App Store, and the most notable change is that it's now a universal app. Now you're able to take advantage of the app's mobile productivity powers on your larger iOS device. Retina display support has also been added, as have document sharing options -- which you can utilize in both the viewer and collaboration modes.

Just like the basic Zoho service, the app is available totally free of charge. Paid subscriptions get you additional storage space and start at $3 per month for professional use.

Download SquadZoho Docs 2.0 adds iPad support originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 22:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsiosipadmobileofficeproductivityretina displayRetinaDisplayuniversal appUniversalAppzohozoho docsZohoDocsWed, 06 Apr 2011 22:17:00 EST<![CDATA[TweetDeck to launch as HTML5 Web app, now accepting beta testers]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/tweetdeck-to-launch-as-web-app-now-accepting-beta-testers/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/tweetdeck-to-launch-as-web-app-now-accepting-beta-testers/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/tweetdeck-to-launch-as-web-app-now-accepting-beta-testers/#comments When TweetDeck landed in the Chrome Web Store, it seemed like an indication that it might eventually evolve into a pure HTML5 Web app. Now it looks as though that's exactly what's going to happen, with TweetDeck announcing that a new, not-just-for-Chrome Web client is ready for beta testing.

It's a natural progression for TweetDeck, especially since its originally Adobe Air app is practically all Web code. TweetDeck Web will sport a feature set which is nearly identical to the Chrome app, with the notable exception of Twitter streaming.

Initially, TweetDeck is targeting Firefox 4 and 3.6, Google Chrome, and Safari. Opera and Internet Explorer 9 won't be invited to the dance until a bit later on.

If you'd like to get in on the TweetDeck Web beta, head on over and register -- or sign up using your existing TweetDeck account.

Download SquadTweetDeck to launch as HTML5 Web app, now accepting beta testers originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activity streamsActivityStreamsappssocialsocialnetworkingstreamstweetdecktwitterwebweb appsWebAppsWed, 06 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Add a Windows 8 user tile to your Windows 7 taskbar]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/add-a-windows-8-user-tile-to-your-windows-7-taskbar/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/add-a-windows-8-user-tile-to-your-windows-7-taskbar/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/add-a-windows-8-user-tile-to-your-windows-7-taskbar/#comments Now that Windows 8 images have begun leaking out, it's only a matter of time until developers start releasing mods for Windows 7 which mimic upcoming features. Over at Into Windows, they've spotted one such mod already.

In the earliest Windows 8 images, we saw Windows Live integration on the taskbar. In the far right corner, there's a user tile displayed. If you'd like to do the same on Windows 7, download Taskbar User Tile from DeviantArt user AngelWZR.

Once installed, your current picture will appear on the taskbar. Click it, and a menu appears which allows you to log off, switch users, and access the control panel. Right now, the mod only works if your taskbar is displayed on the bottom of your Windows desktop.

Download SquadAdd a Windows 8 user tile to your Windows 7 taskbar originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsmodmoddingsuperbartaskbaruser tileUserTilewin7win8windowswindows 7windows 8Windows7Windows8Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Opera 11.10 gets HTML5 File API support, IMAP improvements]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/opera-11-10-gets-html5-file-api-support-imap-improvements/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/opera-11-10-gets-html5-file-api-support-imap-improvements/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/opera-11-10-gets-html5-file-api-support-imap-improvements/#comments opera 11.10 The crew in Oslo keeps plugging away at Opera 11.10, and the latest snapshot build includes a number of improvements to Opera's built-in email client -- as well as HTML5-related additions.

On the IMAP front, Opera now supports special folders like sent items, spam, and trash. It also better handles duplicate items in Gmail -- such as those which appear in all mail and under your custom labels.

Opera 11.10 now partially supports the HTML5 File API as well, which means your favorite Web apps (like Gmail) may soon begin adding Opera to the list of supported browsers.

You can download the latest Opera 11.10 snapshot for Windows, Mac, or Linux from the official release post.

Update: The Opera 11.10 RC is now available, as pointed out by SlashZaku in the comments. Thanks!

Download SquadOpera 11.10 gets HTML5 File API support, IMAP improvements originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbrowserbrowsersemailfile apiFileApigmailhtml5imaplinuxmacmailoperaopera 11.10Opera11.10snapshotwebwindowsWed, 06 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Moom for Mac simplifies window moving and zooming]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/moom-for-mac-simplifies-window-moving-and-zooming/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/moom-for-mac-simplifies-window-moving-and-zooming/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/moom-for-mac-simplifies-window-moving-and-zooming/#comments Moom for Mac
Moom is a Mac utility that aims to simplify the task of moving and sizing windows. Moom can run in three different modes, seen in the image above. The Standard mode will make Moom have a Dock icon as well as menu items in the menu bar. In Menu Bar mode, Moom will only show up in your menu bar, and in the Faceless mode you won't see any sign of its existence at all -- unless you hover over the green zoom button in any window, which is when Moom starts working its magic.

Moom has two ways in which it can be operated -- by using the mouse or the keyboard. Using the mouse, after you've hovered over the aforementioned green zoom icon, a Moom menu will pop-up (above left). From there you can select if you want the current window zoomed to full screen, or if it should only occupy the left or right half of the screen, or even the top or bottom half if you're feeling saucy. The arrow-like icon allows you to revert the window to its original position.

But wait, there's more! If you drag the width/height icons a few pixels instead of just clicking on them, they're transformed into even more options, allowing you to zoom the current window to a(ny) quarter of the screen. How exactly does this work? To make the window occupy the top left quarter, you drag the 'left half' icon up, and to assign it to the bottom left quarter, you drag the 'left half' icon down.

Keyboard mode lets you control Moom with a global hotkey and the arrow buttons. You can set any key combination to be your global Moom hotkey, and set any subsequent key press to do any action that Moom can accomplish. Using the keyboard also gives you the option of centering a window, something which can't yet be done with the mouse. Hit the jump for a screenshot of the entire keyboard shortcut configuration menu to admire the amazing number of ways in which you can customize your interactions with Moom. Last, but definitely not least, you can rest assured knowing that Moom does support multiple displays.

Moom works for 100 uses in its free demo mode, after which you can purchase it either directly from Many Tricks (the developer), or from the Mac App Store. The license costs $5.

Continue reading Moom for Mac simplifies window moving and zooming

Download SquadMoom for Mac simplifies window moving and zooming originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsMacmoommoom for macMoomForMacOSXproductivityutilitieswindow managementwindow movewindow sizewindow zoomingWindowManagementWindowMoveWindowSizeWindowZoomingWed, 06 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Banshee music player now works in Windows, supports Amazon MP3 downloads]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/banshee-music-player-now-works-in-windows-supports-amazon-mp3-d/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/banshee-music-player-now-works-in-windows-supports-amazon-mp3-d/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/banshee-music-player-now-works-in-windows-supports-amazon-mp3-d/#comments A few moments ago, version 2 of the Banshee music player for Linux was released, bringing with it a whole slew of new features, and the addition of an official -- but alpha-quality -- Windows build. The Mac OS X build of version 2 is due later today.

The most notable new feature is support for the Amazon MP3 store -- you can buy and download music from within Banshee -- but unfortunately it's only available in the Linux build at the moment (OS X and Windows support are planned, however). There have also been some significant improvements to artist, album, and queue interactions -- and yes, you can finally right click a track, album or artist and select 'play after' to insert it into the queue.

Beyond actual playback, the user interface has been tidied up -- it now looks a whole lot smarter -- and the Ubuntu One Music Store and SoundMenu extensions have been made official. For a complete list of changes, additions and bug fixes, check the change log.

When Windows support initially appeared in February, we found it rough around the edges and fraught with stability issues. With version 2, Banshee for Windows is still a bit unstable, but it's shaping up to be a good alternative to Winamp, iTunes, or whatever other music library manager you use. It's almost as attractive as its GNOMEish brother, too!

Download Banshee 2 for Linux and Windows (Mac OS X coming soon)

Download SquadBanshee music player now works in Windows, supports Amazon MP3 downloads originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbansheebanshee 2Banshee2cross platformcross-platformCrossPlatformgnomelinuxmacmac os xMacOsXmusicmusic playerMusicPlayerosxubuntuwindowsWed, 06 Apr 2011 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Grooveshark gets kicked out of the Android Market]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/grooveshark-gets-kicked-out-of-the-android-market/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/grooveshark-gets-kicked-out-of-the-android-market/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/grooveshark-gets-kicked-out-of-the-android-market/#commentsGrooveshark logoGoogle has removed Grooveshark from the Android Market. The move, which comes many months after Apple kicked the music app from its App Store, has to do with (what else?) accusations from several top music labels that Grooveshark violates copyright law.

It's unclear whether Google plans to also remotely remove the app from Android smartphones on which it's already been installed, something that Google has the power to do but has only in the past used to get rid of malware-ridden apps.

In response to questions regarding Grooveshark's removal from the Android Market, a Google spokesperson only had this to say: "We remove apps from Android Market that violate our terms of service." The spokesperson did not mention what violations Grooveshark has committed in relation to the Market's terms of service. Google has also, understandably, not said anything about this happening in response to pressure from the music industry -- yet what else could have triggered this removal?

In an interesting coincidence, Google is set to outline its anti-piracy efforts before the House of Representatives' Judiciary committee today. Google has been accused numerous times that it profits from piracy by allowing 'pirate' sites to post Google ads. The company is expected to deny this as well as issue a tougher stance on piracy at today's hearing.

As for Grooveshark, it looks like it's quickly running out of mobile app stores on which it's allowed to exist. Do consider however that you'll probably still be able to get the Android app from Grooveshark directly -- since (unless you have an AT&T Android device) Android does allow you to install apps that don't come from the Market.

Download SquadGrooveshark gets kicked out of the Android Market originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android marketAndroidMarketanti-piracyantipiracyappsaudiogoogleGroovesharkgrooveshark for androidGroovesharkForAndroidmusicpiracyWed, 06 Apr 2011 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BlackBerry Messenger 6.0 screenshots leak]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/blackberry-messenger-6-0-screenshots-leak/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/blackberry-messenger-6-0-screenshots-leak/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/blackberry-messenger-6-0-screenshots-leak/#comments bbm 6
A leaked early version of RIM's upcoming BlackBerry Messenger 6 has been making the rounds since late February, but images of the new app are just now beginning to appear. Over at CrackBerry, the crew has shared a handful of images of BBM 6 in action. Unfortunately, you won't get a glimpse at a chat or file transfer -- only the profile screens (after the break) and what you see above. All that's really revealed so far is the option to set custom contact and chat colors and BlackBerry OS 6.1-style icons.

CrackBerry also warns against installing the leaked BBM 6 app. There's no guarantee this app hasn't been tampered with, and BlackBerry devices are becoming a more common target for cybercriminals.

Continue reading BlackBerry Messenger 6.0 screenshots leak

Download SquadBlackBerry Messenger 6.0 screenshots leak originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbbmbbm 6Bbm6blackberryblackberry messengerBlackberryMessengerchatmobilerimWed, 06 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota pulls Cydia theme and ads to appease Apple]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/toyota-pulls-ios-jailbreak-theme-and-ads-to-appease-apple/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/toyota-pulls-ios-jailbreak-theme-and-ads-to-appease-apple/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/toyota-pulls-ios-jailbreak-theme-and-ads-to-appease-apple/#comments Apple asks Toyota to remove jailbreak Cydia theme In news that will no doubt shake the very bedrock of your belief system, Apple has asked Toyota to remove its Scion theme and its advertising from ModMyi, a Cydia repository. The Scion theme has been available for weeks, but after it received a ton of press in the last couple of days, Apple finally lashed out.

It's not like we should be surprised, considering Apple has claimed in the past that jailbreaking is illegal -- but at the same time, did the Cupertino cronies hear about the ruling that made circumventing DRM, and thus jailbreaking, legal? Anyway, whether Toyota was supporting illegal, legal, or deliciously gray and ambiguous, activity, it doesn't matter: Apple asked Toyota to remove the theme, and Toyota graciously bent over and capitulated.

This story raises a much more interesting topic, though: this is the first time a multinational company has publicly acknowledged and embraced the jailbreak community. Considering jailbreaking is technically legal, and Cydia's creator, Jay Freeman, estimates that up to 9% of OS devices are jailbroken, it simply makes good, commercial sense to target jailbreakers with ads. Toyota was simply trying to make some money, for shame!

As long as Apple continues to throw around its increasingly-expansive mass, the legality of jailbreaking will continue to be inconsequential. It will be interesting to see if another big company dares embrace the jailbreak community after this, too.

Download SquadToyota pulls Cydia theme and ads to appease Apple originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 05:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleappscydiadrmiosiphonejailbreakjailbrokenlegallegalitymodmyiscionthemetoyotatoyota scionToyotaScionWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple iAds get an app all to themselves with iAd Gallery for iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/apple-iads-get-an-app-all-to-themselves-with-iad-gallery-for-iph/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/apple-iads-get-an-app-all-to-themselves-with-iad-gallery-for-iph/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/apple-iads-get-an-app-all-to-themselves-with-iad-gallery-for-iph/#comments Apple iAd Gallery Ever thought to yourself: "I wish there was a way that I could just see ads without the rest of this crummy ad-supported app getting in the way"? Well now you can, thanks to Apple's latest and greatest release -- the iAd Gallery app. This magical new app allows you to view all of Apple's current iAd advertising campaigns right on your iPhone:

'Great ads. On-demand. In your pocket. The iAd Gallery is a celebration of advertising, featuring iAd campaigns from some of the world's best brands and their advertising agencies.'

You can even save your favorite ads for later viewing, or pick at random by spinning the 'wheel of iAds.' Unfortunately for Europeans, and anyone outside of the US in fact, Apple's iAd Gallery is only available in the US App Store. So, for our US-based iPhone-wielding readers, head on over to the App Store to get your fill of advertising.

Download SquadApple iAds get an app all to themselves with iAd Gallery for iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleappsiAdsiAds GalleryIadsGalleryiOSWed, 06 Apr 2011 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fring brings group video calling to iPhone and Android with new beta]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/fring-brings-group-calling-to-iphone-and-android-with-new-beta/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/fring-brings-group-calling-to-iphone-and-android-with-new-beta/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/06/fring-brings-group-calling-to-iphone-and-android-with-new-beta/#comments fring group calling betaFring, the perennial thorn in the side of Skype and other VoIP apps on the mobile platform, has now brought group video calling to the table in its latest beta. Having been the first to launch video calling on the iPhone, fring's limited beta is available for both iPhone and Android devices, and brings free video calls with up to four people in a mosaic layout as show to the right. According to Cnet the app is currently a little rough around the edges, it is called a beta for a reason, but does what it says on the tin.

The beta is limited in numbers, but if you're keen to give it a go you can apply here, submitting your UDID or IMEI number and those of three friends (you have to have people to test it with obviously). In the meantime, if you haven't tried fring, it allows both free video and VoIP calls between fring users over 3G or Wi-Fi, and even has fringOut should you want to call a landline or other non-fring number. The app is available for iOS, Android and even Symbian.

Hit the jump for a video of the beta in action.

Continue reading Fring brings group video calling to iPhone and Android with new beta

Download SquadFring brings group video calling to iPhone and Android with new beta originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidappsfringiOSvideovideo chatVideoChatVoIPWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked Android Music app images and hands-on review]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/leaked-android-music-app-hands-on/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/leaked-android-music-app-hands-on/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/leaked-android-music-app-hands-on/#comments Android Music player This morning, an updated version of the stock Android Music app was leaked along with a new version of Android Market. The new Music app, which is labeled 'version 3', is similar to the leaked build from December, but it has received a ton of polish -- and indeed, it looks almost ready for prime time.

If you don't have Android 2.3 -- or don't want to root your phone to install the leaked Music app -- take a look through our gallery, and then read on for our initial hands-on impressions.

Gallery: Leaked Honeycombish Android Music app

Continue reading Leaked Android Music app images and hands-on review

Download SquadLeaked Android Music app images and hands-on review originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsgoogle musicGoogleMusichands-onleakedmobilemusicmusic appmusic playerMusicAppMusicPlayerTue, 05 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BlueStacks will let you run Android apps on Windows]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/bluestacks-will-let-you-run-android-apps-on-windows/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/bluestacks-will-let-you-run-android-apps-on-windows/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/bluestacks-will-let-you-run-android-apps-on-windows/#comments BlueStacks Android on Windows
Ever wanted to run an Android app in Windows? Not Windows Phone, but on your Windows desktop? Well, later this year you'll be able to do just that, thanks to BlueStacks. Here's the interesting bit: thanks to BlueStacks' virtualization magic, you'll be able to run Android apps alongside Windows apps and switch between them just as you would between different Windows apps.

Furthermore, BlueStacks will make use of your Windows drivers -- which will allow you to print stuff from within Android apps, or even use Skype for Android with full audio and camera support (if you wanted to). And while the Android Market won't be available inside BlueStacks (thanks to Google's restrictions on what devices can get it), you will be able to use the recently-unveiled Amazon Appstore.

All this sounds amazingly interesting, if you agree with the premise. If you don't, well then you're probably asking yourself why anyone would want to run Android apps on a desktop OS that's built around the keyboard and mouse. Which, at the moment, is a fair question -- but for the many Windows tablets are on their way to the market, BlueStacks might actually make sense.

The sad part is that it will only become widely available sometime later this year. Hopefully by then it will be based on a newer version of Android than the oh-so-last-year 2.2.

Continue reading BlueStacks will let you run Android apps on Windows

Download SquadBlueStacks will let you run Android apps on Windows originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsBlueStacksdeveloperutilitiesvirtualizationwindowsTue, 05 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WordPress 3.1.1 is a recommended security update, also improves performance]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/wordpress-3-1-1-is-a-recommended-security-update-also-improves/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/wordpress-3-1-1-is-a-recommended-security-update-also-improves/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/wordpress-3-1-1-is-a-recommended-security-update-also-improves/#commentsWordPress.org logoWordPress.org, the insanely popular self-hosted blogging platform, has just received an update that bumps it to version 3.1.1. According to the official blog post on the matter -- and made obvious by the minor revision number -- this isn't a release centered on exciting new features, but that really shouldn't deter any WordPress.org user from updating.

WordPress 3.1.1 contains many security fixes, and as such not updating as soon as possible may leave your blog vulnerable to attacks. Among the fixed issues are two relating to the media uploader, an XSS flaw, and one that caused a PHP crash in certain conditions when handling "devilishly devised links in comments."

Alongside the security patches come performance improvements, fixes for taxonomy and some permalinks, as well as various things that have been causing plugin compatibility issues.

If you're currently a WordPress.org user, you should have already gotten notified about the update in your Dashboard. If not, or if you aren't a user just yet, you can download WordPress 3.1.1 from the official website.

Download SquadWordPress 3.1.1 is a recommended security update, also improves performance originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsautomatticBlogbloggingblogscmsdevelopermediasecuritysecurity updateSecurityUpdateWebwordpressWordPress 3.1.1wordpress.orgWordpress3.1.1Tue, 05 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Chrome and Chromium add protection against malicious downloads]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-chrome-and-chromium-add-protection-against-malicious-down/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-chrome-and-chromium-add-protection-against-malicious-down/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-chrome-and-chromium-add-protection-against-malicious-down/#comments google chrome malicious download Google Chrome already sports a number of security-minded features, from Incognito mode to a software sandbox which makes exploiting the browser a Herculean task. Now, Google has announced additional protection for Chromium and Chrome users.

Built upon the Safe Browsing API, the new feature introduces protection against malicious downloads. If a download link appears in the Safe Browsing blacklist, Chrome and Chromium will warn users against downloading -- a save button is still presented, of course, in case you're convinced a file is perfectly safe to download.

We'd like to see something a bit more eye-catching than the red warning icon -- like perhaps painting the entire bar red. Many of the people a feature like this aims to protect probably won't notice the icon or change in wording as they'll be focused on clicking the save button.

Google is initially making download protection available to Chrome dev channel users, and you'll likely see it in Canary and Chromium snapshot builds as well. After thorough testing, beta and stable users will be next in line.

Download SquadGoogle Chrome and Chromium add protection against malicious downloads originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbrowserbrowserschromechromiumdownloadgoogle chromeGoogleChromemaliciousprotectionsafe browsingSafeBrowsingsafetysecuritywebTue, 05 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Books for iPad adds in-book search and landscape mode]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-books-for-ipad-adds-in-book-search-and-landscape-mode/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-books-for-ipad-adds-in-book-search-and-landscape-mode/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/google-books-for-ipad-adds-in-book-search-and-landscape-mode/#comments Google Books for iPad landscape view
Google has updated its Books app for iOS today, and the new version brings a handful of bug fixes, performance improvements, and a couple of new features. One of these is iPad-specific: reading books in the landscape orientation on Apple tablets is now possible. The second is the addition of a Find feature which shows you all the matches for a particular query as you scroll.

Tapping Get Books now logs you into the Google eBookstore with the same username you used to log into the app itself. The magnifier has been removed, the book downloading experience and the overall speed of the app have been improved, and 3D page turning now works on iPads running iOS 4.3.

All of these represent small steps toward making Google Books a solid and compelling e-book reader for iOS. What remains to be seen is whether it will ever manage to attract a significant number of users from the likes of iBooks, Kindle, or Kobo.

Download Google Books for iOS 1.1.0.2247 for free from the iTunes App Store

Download SquadGoogle Books for iPad adds in-book search and landscape mode originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbook searchBookSearche-booksfindgooglegoogle booksgoogle ebooksgoogle ebookstoreGoogleBooksGoogleEbooksGoogleEbookstoreIOSipadlandscape viewLandscapeViewsearchtextTue, 05 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Echofon Twitter client for Firefox redesigned and updated for Firefox 4]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/echofon-twitter-client-for-firefox-redesigned-and-updated-for-fi/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/echofon-twitter-client-for-firefox-redesigned-and-updated-for-fi/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/04/05/echofon-twitter-client-for-firefox-redesigned-and-updated-for-fi/#comments With the recent release of Firefox 4, Echofon has just put out a major update of its Twitter extension for Firefox, featuring a new design and takes full advantage of Mozilla's latest browser. Echofon can now be used as a Firefox sidebar or pulled out into a separate window, and it now includes inline photo viewing and an all-around nicer UI for your tweet stream.

Some cool Echofon desktop features have made their way into the Firefox extension this time around, too. It supports muting of users, hashtags, and even specific Twitter clients, as well as saved searches (with a handy new tabbed interface). The very useful conversation view has also been added, allowing you to keep up with @reply chatter more easily.

Echofon for Firefox plans to support real-time tweet streaming through Twitter's user streams API, but that's still pending approval from Twitter. This update is still in Beta, so it might have some issues, but the Firefox extension is now giving standalone Echofon desktop apps a run for their money.

Download SquadEchofon Twitter client for Firefox redesigned and updated for Firefox 4 originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onsappsbrowser add-onsBrowserAdd-onsechofonextensionsfirefoxmozillatwitterTue, 05 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST