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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[iSites overhauled, now lets you publish cloud-based HTML5 iPhone apps in minutes]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/30/isites-overhauled-now-lets-you-publish-cloud-based-html5-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/30/isites-overhauled-now-lets-you-publish-cloud-based-html5-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/30/isites-overhauled-now-lets-you-publish-cloud-based-html5-iphone/#commentsiSites -- a zero-code cloud-based 'app creator' -- can now generate HTML5 apps that work on iOS devices. With this new feature, dubbed 'InstantApp', you can now design a single app in your browser and publish it natively on Android and iOS, and as an HTML5 iPhone app.

We haven't looked at iSites before, but it shot to fame last year when it launched with native iOS and Android support. Self-publishing Android apps wasn't a problem because Google does very little moderation of the Market, but iSites ran into trouble with its iOS apps. Thousands of people signed up for the service after it was featured on Mashable and TechCrunch, and you can imagine Apple's chagrin as thousands of cookie cutter apps flooded its approval queue.

Genwi, the developer behind iSites, realized something had to be done -- it had to circumvent the App Store approval process. Genwi, of course, turned to HTML5 Web apps -- which can be pinned to the iPhone home screen and which can be shoehorned into almost behaving like native apps.

Read on for our experiences with iSites' new InstantApp HTML5 iOS app creator.

Gallery: iSites InstantApp HTML5 iPhone app creation

Continue reading iSites overhauled, now lets you publish cloud-based HTML5 iPhone apps in minutes

Download SquadiSites overhauled, now lets you publish cloud-based HTML5 iPhone apps in minutes originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app creatorAppCreatorappsfeaturesgenwihtml5html5 apphtml5 web appHtml5AppHtml5WebAppinstantappisiteswebweb appsWebAppsWed, 30 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon Cloud Player review: functional, not mind blowing, and still US-only]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/29/amazon-cloud-player-hands-on-review-functional-not-mind-blowin/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/29/amazon-cloud-player-hands-on-review-functional-not-mind-blowin/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/29/amazon-cloud-player-hands-on-review-functional-not-mind-blowin/#commentsAmazon Android Cloud Player appIt's hard to believe: our world-spanning network, our Internet, which is the cornerstone of free speech and free society -- which, on a good day, is capable of causing populist revolutions -- is still crippled by banal geolocation restrictions. We are, of course, talking about Amazon's two latest offerings, both of which are only available in the United States. Last week it was the excellent Android Appstore for Android, and today it's the Amazon Cloud Player for Web and Android.

Along with Cloud Player, Amazon also launched Cloud Drive, which is basically just like any other cloud storage digital locker. It's not particularly feature rich, and there's no real reason to use it over something like SugarSync or SkyDrive -- it does work outside the US, however.

Its primary purpose, as far as we're concerned, is that it stores your your Cloud Player music in a subdirectory. You get 5GB of Cloud Drive storage for free, and then it's $1 per gigabyte per year if you need more space.

The Amazon Cloud Player itself will not, to put it bluntly, blow your mind. It works, but it's very much an early, and possibly rushed, release. Let's dive in to the Web and Android players for a closer look.

Gallery: Amazon Cloud Player and Cloud Drive: on Web and Android

Continue reading Amazon Cloud Player review: functional, not mind blowing, and still US-only

Download SquadAmazon Cloud Player review: functional, not mind blowing, and still US-only originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon cloudamazon cloud driveamazon cloud playeramazon mp3amazon+cloud+player+reviewamazon+cloud+reviewAmazonCloudAmazonCloudDriveAmazonCloudPlayeramazoncloudplayerreviewamazoncloudreviewAmazonMp3androidappsaudiocloudcloud drivecloud playercloud storageCloudDriveCloudPlayerCloudStoragedigital lockerDigitalLockerfeaturesfile storageFileStoragehands-onmobilemusicstreamingwebweb appsWebAppsTue, 29 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefox 4 Friday: 25 million downloads, anti-aliasing, and how to make it look like Firefox 3]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/25/firefox-4-friday-25-million-downloads-anti-aliasing-and-how-t/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/25/firefox-4-friday-25-million-downloads-anti-aliasing-and-how-t/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/25/firefox-4-friday-25-million-downloads-anti-aliasing-and-how-t/#comments Firefox 4 racks up 25 million downloads in 3 days If you've had your head under a rock for the last few days, here's this week's Firefox news in brief: Firefox 4 was finally released.

Yes, 13 months after the initial release of Firefox 3.7 alpha 1 and four more alpha builds, a renumbering to 4.0 and 12 beta releases, and finally a release candidate (or two), Firefox 4 has been released into the wild.

Just like every other Firefox release, initial reception for the new browser has been nothing short of insane. 7.1 million downloads were registered in the first 24 hours and the download rate continued to accelerate, clocking in more than 15 million downloads after two days. At the time of writing, three days in, Firefox 4 has been downloaded over 25 million times. In case you're wondering, the United States accounts for 7 million of those downloads, just beating out Germany's Firefox-downloads-per-capita.

But now that you've installed Firefox 4 (you have, right?), what do you do now? Well, obviously, in true Download Squad fashion, it's time to tweak Firefox 4 using add-ons and about:config hacks!

First up is an add-on called Stratiform that lets you change every aspect of the Firefox 4 browser chrome -- including the color of that orange button!

Continue reading Firefox 4 Friday: 25 million downloads, anti-aliasing, and how to make it look like Firefox 3

Download SquadFirefox 4 Friday: 25 million downloads, anti-aliasing, and how to make it look like Firefox 3 originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onadd-onsaddonaddonsappsbrowserbrowsersextensionextensionsfeaturesff 4Ff4firefoxfirefox 4firefox friday fiveFirefox4FirefoxFridayFivefx4mozillawebFri, 25 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobile torrenting: how to manage and stream downloads from your phone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/23/mobile-torrenting-how-to-manage-and-stream-downloads-from-phone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/23/mobile-torrenting-how-to-manage-and-stream-downloads-from-phone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/23/mobile-torrenting-how-to-manage-and-stream-downloads-from-phone/#commentsWhile exciting progress is being made in the realm of high-speed mobile data, it will be a long time indeed before wireless operators can catch up with wired bandwidth and ubiquity. For the time being, mass data transfer will be one of the few things that will stay within the realm of home and office computing, on DSL and Cable connections.

Still, just because you run your BitTorrent client on your desktop, laptop, or NAS, doesn't mean that you can't manage your torrents while on the move! If you see a poster for Pioneer One during your daily commute, you can whip out your smartphone and add the latest episode to your at-home torrent client.

And again, while it isn't wise to torrent on your smartphone, you can send a file from your PC to your phone; you can even stream a TV show, movie or song from home to your mobile device.

In this guide we'll cover Windows, Mac and Linux on the PC side of things, and Android, iOS, Symbian, BlackBerry, and Web apps on the mobile side. Let's jump in!

Continue reading Mobile torrenting: how to manage and stream downloads from your phone

Download SquadMobile torrenting: how to manage and stream downloads from your phone originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air videoAirVideoandroidaudiofeaturesimagesiosipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmediamedia sharingmedia streamingMediaSharingMediaStreamingmobileorbrtorrentstreamingsymbiantorrenttorrentingtransdroidtransmissionutorrentvideowineWed, 23 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sendoid offers simple zero-config P2P file sharing, doesn't work that well]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/23/sendoid-offers-simple-zero-config-p2p-file-sharing-doesnt-work/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/23/sendoid-offers-simple-zero-config-p2p-file-sharing-doesnt-work/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/23/sendoid-offers-simple-zero-config-p2p-file-sharing-doesnt-work/#comments Sendoid: P2P file sharing Yet another file sharing tool is doing the rounds, but this time it has a rather interesting selling point: zero-config peer-to-peer transfers. Sendoid, which has nothing to do with Android and everything to do with sending, lets you send files directly between two users without a server in between.

Simply pop open the Sendoid website, and use either the built-in Flash client or download the AIR desktop client to select a file to send. A short URL is generated, which you then send to the recipient. You can put a password on the URL -- but that's it, as far as configuration goes. The recipient can download the file via the website, or via the AIR client.

Being P2P-based, Sendoid has a few great features that set it apart from its central-server cousins. Sendoid has no file size limit, and your download speed is only limited by the sender's upload speed. Then there's the fact that it's a lot more secure: files are sent directly to other users and never touch Sendoid's servers.

Ultimately, though, Sendoid is hampered by peer-to-peer's (P2P) well-known and time-honored issues. If P2P was meant for sending individual files, file dumps like Megaupload and RapidShare, and tools like YouSendIt, wouldn't exist.

Gallery: Sendoid: peer-to-peer simple file sharing

Continue reading Sendoid offers simple zero-config P2P file sharing, doesn't work that well

Download SquadSendoid offers simple zero-config P2P file sharing, doesn't work that well originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbittorrentfeaturesfile sharingFileSharinglets crateLetsCratep2ppeer to peerpeer-to-peerPeerToPeersendoidsharingwebweb appsWebAppsWed, 23 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon Appstore for Android hands-on review: Android Market is in trouble]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/22/amazon-appstore-for-android-hands-on-review-android-market-in-trouble/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/22/amazon-appstore-for-android-hands-on-review-android-market-in-trouble/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/22/amazon-appstore-for-android-hands-on-review-android-market-in-trouble/#comments Amazon Appstore vs. Android Market
Earlier today Amazon released its long-awaited Appstore for Android. Fundamentally it's very similar to Google's first-party Android Market or the third-party AppBrain, but it has a few Amazonian differences that could set it apart from the competition very quickly.

First and foremost, Amazon is promising to give away one paid app for free every day. Today it's Angry Birds Rio, and it only retails for 99 cents, but that doesn't really matter: people love free stuff. People will download stuff simply because it's free, even if they don't want it! The best bit (or worst bit) is that developers still get 20% of the usual retail price, which will be paid out of Amazon's pockets.

The next defining feature is Amazon Appstore exclusives. Angry Birds Rio, CoD:MW:Force Recon and other apps will be available only from Amazon. As we know from the console wars, exclusive titles aren't always a good thing, but who cares? Amazon simply wants unique selling points, and exclusive titles are definitely that.

It's not all good, though. We ran in to some rather serious bugs while playing around with the Amazon Appstore for Android app, and then there's the matter of having to enable installation from Unknown Sources before it will even install...

Gallery: Amazon Appstore for Android

Continue reading Amazon Appstore for Android hands-on review: Android Market is in trouble

Download SquadAmazon Appstore for Android hands-on review: Android Market is in trouble originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon appstoreAmazonAppstoreandroidandroid marketAndroidMarketapp storeappsAppStorefeaturesgooglehands onhands-onHandsOnmarketreviewwebTue, 22 Mar 2011 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Must-have Firefox 4 add-ons for Chrome and Internet Explorer converts]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/22/firefox-4-add-ons-for-new-users-chrome-and-internet-explorer-converts/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/22/firefox-4-add-ons-for-new-users-chrome-and-internet-explorer-converts/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/22/firefox-4-add-ons-for-new-users-chrome-and-internet-explorer-converts/#commentsSo you've finally realized that while Chrome might be fast, it sacrifices creature comforts to be so. It's a little bit like living in a whitewashed room with nothing more than a beige-box PC and keyboard -- it works, but it's not a particularly fun experience. If you like car analogies, Chrome is like a race-tuned Ferrari with hard-plastic bucket seats and tubular titanium roll cage.

Likewise, Internet Explorer 8 and 9 will get you safely around the Web -- and quickly, in the case of IE9 -- but if you want to change the UI, or strap on extra functionality, you're bang out of luck because it has less add-ons than Opera has users. Internet Explorer is, in short, the Volvo of Browser Land.

If you want speed, security, functionality and full-featured add-ons, Firefox 4 is the only browser worth talking about. Let's dive in and check out the best add-ons for first-time users and browser converts.

Continue reading Must-have Firefox 4 add-ons for Chrome and Internet Explorer converts

Download SquadMust-have Firefox 4 add-ons for Chrome and Internet Explorer converts originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adblockadd-onadd-onsaddonaddonsappsbetterprivacybrowserbrowsersdownthemallextensionextensionsfeaturesff4firebugfirefoxfirefox 4Firefox4flashblockfx 4Fx4lastpassmozillanoscriptvideo downloadhelperVideoDownloadhelperTue, 22 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Group messaging: the next big thing?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/21/group-messaging-the-next-big-thing/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/21/group-messaging-the-next-big-thing/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/21/group-messaging-the-next-big-thing/#comments Group messaging As our mobile communications have evolved over the past few years, so have the messaging services that we've turned to, connecting us to our friends, families and colleagues. Instant communication has never been easier. Your favorite instant messaging protocols like AIM, Gtalk, and MSN Messenger, aren't fixed to the desktop anymore and can be taken on the road with the soon-ubiquitous smartphone. But that hasn't stopped the proliferation of alternative messaging systems, with the likes of BlackBerry Messenger and a plethora of copycats taking center stage.

The next big thing in mobile communications seems to be group messaging, and that's no real surprise. If we take a look at the currently entrenched communication platforms, not many of them do more than messaging one-to-one or one-to-a-few well. Sure you can have group chats using traditional IM protocols, but they are inherently transitory.

Continue reading Group messaging: the next big thing?

Download SquadGroup messaging: the next big thing? originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsBBMBelugaBlackBerryBlackBerry Messengerblackberry+messenger+for+androidBlackberryMessengerblackberrymessengerforandroidFacebookfeaturesgroup messagingGroupMeGroupMessagingKikPing ChatPingChatRIMtextMon, 21 Mar 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The best social networking add-ons for all your browsers]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/11/social-networking-add-ons-for-firefox-chrome-internet-explorer-opera-safari/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/11/social-networking-add-ons-for-firefox-chrome-internet-explorer-opera-safari/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/11/social-networking-add-ons-for-firefox-chrome-internet-explorer-opera-safari/#comments Best social networking add-ons for Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer, Opera and Safari If you're a social networking butterfly, or if you have the malevolent aspirations of one day becoming a 'social media expert,' you almost certainly spend a vast amount of time surfing the Web. You probably use a modern browser like Firefox or Chrome, and you almost certainly have a ton of tabs open at the same time.

It can be hard work, keeping track of multiple websites. Hitting F5 is a pain in the ass -- and waiting those few seconds for a page to reload can be mighty frustrating. Then there's the matter of remembering all of your login names and passwords (because you don't use the same password on more than one site, right?)

Wouldn't it be great if there were some add-ons and extensions that could make light work of your surprisingly busy social networking lifestyle? Even if you only use Facebook or Twitter, there are still plenty of annoyances that could be offloaded to add-ons.

Fortunately, as you've probably guessed, there are plenty of add-ons and extensions for both Chrome and Firefox. We've even thrown in a few Opera, Internet Explorer and Safari add-ons where possible. Read on!

Continue reading The best social networking add-ons for all your browsers

Download SquadThe best social networking add-ons for all your browsers originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onadd-onsaddonaddonsbrowserschromeextensionextensionsfeaturesfirefoxgoogle chromeGoogleChromeieinternet explorerInternetExplorerlastpassoperaread it laterReadItLatersafarishareaholicsocial networkingsocial-networkingSocialNetworkingstumbleupontoolbaryoonoFri, 11 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Winamp 1.0 for Android review: now with free MP3 downloads and streaming]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/10/winamp-1-0-for-android-review-now-with-free-mp3-downloads-and-streaming/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/10/winamp-1-0-for-android-review-now-with-free-mp3-downloads-and-streaming/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/10/winamp-1-0-for-android-review-now-with-free-mp3-downloads-and-streaming/#commentsMoments ago, Nullsoft released Winamp 1.0 on to the Android Market. It's free to download, and we can safely say that it's best music player for Android. It's so good that it might even whip the llama's ass. [Disclosure: Nullsoft and Download Squad are both owned by AOL]

With the bump to version 1, Winamp for Android introduces a bunch of cool new features. Most notably is the ability to download and stream MP3s from Spinner, but there's also a new Featured SHOUTcast Stations area and extensive UI changes throughout.

The lock screen player has been redesigned, and you can now control audio playback with swipe gestures. Accessing vast amounts of artist information and news directly from the Now Playing screen is now really easy -- and finally, Wi-Fi sync of music from your desktop PC is now a lot more stable!

Read on for our hands-on experiences with each of Winamp 1.0's main features.

Gallery: Winamp 1.0 for Android: beautiful and functional

Continue reading Winamp 1.0 for Android review: now with free MP3 downloads and streaming

Download SquadWinamp 1.0 for Android review: now with free MP3 downloads and streaming originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aolappsaudiofeaturesfree mp3free musicFreeMp3FreeMusichands-onmobilemp3musicnullsoftonline radioOnlineRadioreviewsshoutcaststreamingwinampwinamp for androidWinampForAndroidThu, 10 Mar 2011 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[iOS 4.3: everything you need to know]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/09/ios-4-3-guide-everything-you-need-to-know/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/09/ios-4-3-guide-everything-you-need-to-know/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/09/ios-4-3-guide-everything-you-need-to-know/#comments iOS 4.3 : what you need to know iOS 4.3, Apple's latest revision to its iDevice-OS, for the GSM iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, has just been made available through iTunes to coincide with the launch of the iPad 2 later this week. To update your iDevice, simply connect it to your computer, fire up iTunes, and hit 'Check for update.'

There's a lot of new features in iOS 4.3, from Personal Hotspot and AirPlay, to improved JavaScript performance and SMS alerts. Read on for a complete guide to all the new goodies!

Continue reading iOS 4.3: everything you need to know

Download SquadiOS 4.3: everything you need to know originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ApplefeaturesguideiOSiOS 4.3ios+4.3+changesios+4.3+featuresios+4.3+tetheringIos4.3ios4.3changesios4.3featuresios4.3tetheringiPadiPhoneiPod touchIpodTouchlistsutilitiesWed, 09 Mar 2011 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[N64oid emulator for Android review and gameplay video]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/04/n64oid-emulator-for-android-review-and-gameplay-video/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/04/n64oid-emulator-for-android-review-and-gameplay-video/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/04/n64oid-emulator-for-android-review-and-gameplay-video/#comments N64oid for Android: N64 emulation N64oid, the Nintendo 64 emulator for Android, was released earlier today, and being absolute fans of the console, we figured a hands-on review would be the only fair and just thing to do. You don't want to know how many hours we've spent playing multiplayer GoldenEye here in the Download Squad bunker, and Lee can almost complete Ocarina of Time while blindfolded.

Now -- before you get too excited -- you can't network N64oid for awesome on-the-toilet multiplayer GoldenEye action, but it does play single-player games surprisingly well. Like PSX4droid, it still suffers from some framerate drops and slow-and-crackly sound, but it's still more than capable of playing Ocarina of Time.

If that wasn't exciting enough, get this: if you have a Wiimote and nun-chuck, you can pair them with your Android device and use them instead, removing the need to poke ineffectually at the on-screen virtual gamepad.

Take the jump for our full experience with N64oid, and a gameplay video of Ocarina of Time on our Nexus S test unit.

Continue reading N64oid emulator for Android review and gameplay video

Download SquadN64oid emulator for Android review and gameplay video originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsemulationemulatorfeaturesgoldeneyehands-onmariomobilen64n64oidnintendonintendo 64Nintendo64ocarina of timeOcarinaOfTimeold schoolOldSchoolretroyongzhzeldaFri, 04 Mar 2011 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[The best Windows Twitter clients: from TweetDeck to tweetc]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/03/the-best-windows-twitter-clients-from-tweetdeck-to-tweetc/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/03/the-best-windows-twitter-clients-from-tweetdeck-to-tweetc/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/03/the-best-windows-twitter-clients-from-tweetdeck-to-tweetc/#commentsWith more than 190 million users, and less than half of those using Twitter.com to post updates, the installed Twitter client market is massive. There are literally hundreds of Twitter clients spanning every desktop and mobile platform, and even a few cross-platform Web apps thrown into the mix.

Even if you narrow down the search to just one platform -- Windows -- there's still a dizzying amount of choices to pick from. There isn't even an official Twitter for Windows that scared newbies can pick up.

Well, good news: We've whittled down the choices so that you only have to choose from the best of the rest. From the typographically beautiful and slimline MetroTwit, to the heavy-hitting tour de force of Seesmic, and a handful in between, we have a Twitter client for you.

Continue reading The best Windows Twitter clients: from TweetDeck to tweetc

Download SquadThe best Windows Twitter clients: from TweetDeck to tweetc originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobe airAdobeAirappsbluchirpfacebookfeatureshands-onmetrotwitseesmicsilverlightsobeessocial networkingsocial-networkingSocialNetworkingtweetctweetdecktwitterwindowsThu, 03 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iDisplay for Android review: turn your smartphone or tablet into a 2nd or 3rd desktop display]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/02/idisplay-for-android-review-turn-tablet-smartphone-into-a-2nd-3rd-display/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/02/idisplay-for-android-review-turn-tablet-smartphone-into-a-2nd-3rd-display/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/02/idisplay-for-android-review-turn-tablet-smartphone-into-a-2nd-3rd-display/#comments iDisplay screen extending for Android When we first heard about iDisplay, there was something about it that piqued our curiosity. It extends your desktop onto another screen -- your Android or iOS device, to be exact -- and while that sounds cool, its actual usefulness isn't immediately apparent.

All you have to do is install the app on your Android device (2.1 or newer), run the server program on your Windows or Mac PC, and then connect from your phone. Voila! An extended desktop.

In theory, it sounds as easy as pie -- and we'd be lying if we said the concept of extending your screen to your mobile device didn't appeal to our the inner nerd -- but in practice, iDisplay for Android is an untamed beast that doesn't really do what it's meant to do.

Gallery: iDisplay for Android: extending your PC desktop... kind of

Wikipedia, stretched across smartphone and desktopYou have to approve devices the first time they connectHalf of Civ 4, on a Nexus S...FishIE Tank has some issues...Dragging an icon onto the smartphone

Continue reading iDisplay for Android review: turn your smartphone or tablet into a 2nd or 3rd desktop display

Download SquadiDisplay for Android review: turn your smartphone or tablet into a 2nd or 3rd desktop display originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsextendfeatureshands-oniosmacmobilemultiple displaysMultipleDisplaysscreen extendingscreen sharingScreenExtendingScreenSharingshapeservicessoftwarewindowsWed, 02 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[10+ Chrome extensions and Web apps for new users]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/22/10-chrome-extensions-and-web-apps-for-new-users/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/22/10-chrome-extensions-and-web-apps-for-new-users/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/22/10-chrome-extensions-and-web-apps-for-new-users/#commentsIt might only be a couple of years old and its extension interface might not be quite as powerful as Firefox's, but in terms of developers, big-name publishers, and sheer numbers, Chrome already has a very healthy ecosystem of add-ons.

When you factor in Chrome's exclusive selection of Web apps, it's even possible to say that Chrome has a wider variety of extensions -- or at least until Mozilla launches its Open Web Apps later in the year.

Still, as always, the problem with add-ons is finding the right ones. You have thousands of add-ons to choose from, and only a handful that are actually worth using. First-time users haven't got a snowball's chance -- unless they read this list of must-have extensions!

But this list of extensions is for converts, too. With massive defections from Internet Explorer and Firefox, Chrome has grown from just a few million users in 2009 to over 120 million at the start of 2011. Firefox users will be especially pleased to find almost every add-on has a comparable extension -- and IE users... well, they'll just be glad to have any extensions at all.

Whether you are looking for helpers or shortcuts, or full-blown Web apps, you will be pleasantly surprised with the variety and power of Chrome's extensions.

Continue reading 10+ Chrome extensions and Web apps for new users

Download Squad10+ Chrome extensions and Web apps for new users originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adblockadd-onadd-onsaddonaddonsbrowserschromeextensionextensionsfeaturesflashblockgooglegoogle chromegoogle voiceGoogleChromeGoogleVoicelastpasslistquick noteQuickNotetweetdeckweb appsWebAppsxmarksTue, 22 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Corel releases VideoStudio Pro X4, we go hands on (video)]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/22/corel-releases-videostudio-pro-x4-we-go-hands-on/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/22/corel-releases-videostudio-pro-x4-we-go-hands-on/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/22/corel-releases-videostudio-pro-x4-we-go-hands-on/#comments videostudioprox4 Corel seems to be on a roll lately; after releasing WinZip System Utilities just last week, this morning the company announced VideoStudio Pro X4.

VideoStudio Pro is aimed at home users and small business professionals who want to create professional-looking videos, but without the hassle, steep learning curve and price of Adobe Premiere Pro and the likes.

This new version introduces several features:
  • Stop motion animation: You can now capture still frames using a webcam, camcorder or DSLR and use them to produce an animation. Tools such as "onion skin view" let you compare the previous image in the sequence with the current one and make the animation as smooth as possible.
  • Processor optimization: Corel says the app is optimized for Intel's new Sandy Bridge systems, and have shown us some graphs with very impressive numbers. We've been unable to test this particular point, but if you have a recent-generation Intel or AMD Fusion system, VideoStudio performance should be blazing. Even on our older test system performance was quite impressive.
  • Customizable workspace: You can drag the video preview window to your secondary monitor (if you have one) and tweak just about any other element in the window layout. Once done, you can save your ideal workspace in one of three slots.
  • Share-to-Web: VideoStudio Pro X4 hooks directly into YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook and Flickr, so you don't even have to launch a browser to upload your final product. Edit, produce and share from within the app itself.
  • Smart Package: Video projects typically consist of many files; Smart Package lets you bundle all video assets for a given project into one ZIP file which you can password-protect and keep in a safe place once you're done editing.
I've had a chance to play around with a pre-release version for a few days, and have put it through its paces editing a short video for my day job. Overall, I've been impressed with how easy it was to create pro-looking results. If you do any sort of video editing but are leery of the investment other apps require (both in dollars and effort), VideoStudio Pro is well worth checking out. To see a bit of the interface itself and what the app can do, watch the video after the jump.

Note: We'll be running a give-away of ten VideoStudio Pro X4 licenses later today, each worth $100 USD. Keep your eyes peeled for the giveaway post!

Continue reading Corel releases VideoStudio Pro X4, we go hands on (video)

Download SquadCorel releases VideoStudio Pro X4, we go hands on (video) originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscorelfeatureshandsonmovie makernonlinearutilitiesvideovideo editorVideoEditorVideoStudiovideostudio pro x4VideostudioProX4Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[10+ great add-ons that only work with Firefox 4]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/21/10-great-add-ons-that-only-work-with-firefox-4/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/21/10-great-add-ons-that-only-work-with-firefox-4/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/21/10-great-add-ons-that-only-work-with-firefox-4/#commentsAlong with the ability to be restartless, Firefox 4 add-ons also have an entirely new interface to manipulate! There's a new add-on bar at the bottom of the screen, which replaces Firefox 3's status bar -- and then there's that infernal orange button that Mozilla, in its infinite wisdom, has made completely immovable.

There are other new features, too, like app tabs -- wouldn't it be nice to double click a tab, rather than having to fumble around with the right mouse button? And how about some visual notifications in those app tabs, too? Then there's the add-on that lets you set your tab width as narrow (or as wide!) as you like.

Finally, don't forget the handful of Firefox 4-only add-ons from Mozilla Labs that make the browser perform a lot like Chrome...

Continue reading 10+ great add-ons that only work with Firefox 4

Download Squad10+ great add-ons that only work with Firefox 4 originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onadd-onsaddonaddonsbarlesquebrowserscustom tab widthCustomTabWidthextensionextensionsfeaturesff4firefoxfirefox 4Firefox4mozillamozilla labsMozillaLabsorange buttonOrangeButtonpersonal menuPersonalMenuquick search barQuickSearchBartab badgeTabBadgeMon, 21 Feb 2011 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefox 4's best restartless add-ons]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/18/firefox-4-best-restartless-add-ons/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/18/firefox-4-best-restartless-add-ons/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/18/firefox-4-best-restartless-add-ons/#commentsUnless you've been sleeping under a rock, or in a tent outside the Googleplex with an "I LOVE SCHMIDT" banner, you hopefully know that Firefox 4 supports restartless add-ons, or in developerese: bootstrapped extensions.

Unfortunately, however, the process of converting an existing add-on into a restartless wonder is far from simple. A few months ago, back when the Firefox 4 beta machine really got into the swing of things, the developer of the world's most popular add-on, Adblock Plus, described his laborious and infuriating attempt at making his add-on restartless -- and today, just a few days away from the final Firefox beta, there still isn't a single big-name restartless add-on to be found.

On the flip side, writing new restartless add-ons is a little easier. Uptake amongst developers still seems to be very slow, though. Add-ons for Firefox (AMO) only has about 80 add-ons tagged with 'restartless', and even less with the restartless add-on's SDK, 'jetpack'.

Then, of course, only a few of those add-ons are actually worth using! Read on for our pick of the best Firefox 4 restartless add-ons.

Continue reading Firefox 4's best restartless add-ons

Download SquadFirefox 4's best restartless add-ons originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Add OnsAdd-onsAddOnsAlternative Runescape GamebarAlternativeRunescapeGamebarbootstrappedDrag2upFeaturesFirefoxFirefox 4Firefox Add-onsFirefox4FirefoxAdd-onsGreader PanelGreaderPanelGrooveshark Remote ControlGroovesharkRemoteControlMozilla Labs Home DashMozillaLabsHomeDashPentadactylrestartlessTab BadgeTabbadgeTopFri, 18 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5 free BlackBerry Messenger-style cross-platform chat apps]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/top-5-free-blackberry-messenger-style-chat-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/top-5-free-blackberry-messenger-style-chat-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/top-5-free-blackberry-messenger-style-chat-apps/#comments Ever since early in the evolution of the BlackBerry, RIM's BlackBerry Messenger has been the envy of all other smartphone users. By creating an always-on Instant Messaging platform that linked phones to phones, RIM managed to provide a service that not only replaced the need for text and multimedia messaging, but also didn't interfere with any desktop IM protocol that you might use. OK, some desktop IM services like Gtalk let you take the 'focus' from your desktop when you log-on using your smartphone, having all messages directed there; but it's not the same as having a dedicated always-on, always-mobile IM service.

Up until recently, BBM was about the only application to provide this kind of phone-to-phone messaging service over data, but with the dawn of the App Stores, a whole host of BBM-clones have sprung up. Today we're going to be taking a look at five of the best free and, for the most part, cross-platform solutions. It's important to note that none of these apps will connect you with the BBM service, nor are they capable of connecting to any other messaging service than their own.

Continue reading Top 5 free BlackBerry Messenger-style cross-platform chat apps

Download SquadTop 5 free BlackBerry Messenger-style cross-platform chat apps originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidappsBelugaBlackBerryCellphonesChatPlusfeaturesHands-oniOSkik messengerKikMessengerLiveProfilePingChatreviewssocial networkingSocialNetworkingMon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WinZip releases new System Utilities Suite, we go hands-on]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/winzip-releases-new-system-utilities-suite-we-go-hands-on/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/winzip-releases-new-system-utilities-suite-we-go-hands-on/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/14/winzip-releases-new-system-utilities-suite-we-go-hands-on/#commentswinzipsystemutilitiessuite Most people know WinZip for its compression products, but with more and more people using Windows's built-in file compression utilities, WinZip is expanding into previously unexplored territory with the new System Utilities Suite. The system optimization tool, debuting today, packs 20 separate utilities, each with its own UI, own Start Menu entry, etc, though the Suite fortunately pulls everything together into an easily accessible 'master utility' that I explore in the video below.

The master utility serves as a desktop or start screen for the package's complete tool set, and offers quick access to a three-click process that optimizes the registry, removes temporary ("junk") files, scans and updates drivers, and more. This would be the first thing new users would run, and once that's done, they could use each of the other tools as needed (or according to their comfort level) to optimize specific aspects of their Windows PC. System Utilities is aimed both at novice users and more advanced nerds; it leans more towards the "advanced" end of the spectrum, as the sheer wealth of tools it offers may appear daunting. There's a tool for just about every purpose, starting with a Duplicate File Remover, through a Registry Cleaner and Optimizer (packaged as two tools), all the way to a Secure Encryptor for sensitive files. There's even a 'Game Optimizer,' which is a full-fledged virtual machine (a "computer in a computer") running your game as its single application, with support for custom keymaps and other goodies. Some of this may sound similar to what CCleaner offers, but as you can see, System Utilities is far more comprehensive.

As you may have noticed, System Utilities uses short, descriptive names, so that even non-expert users would be able to find the right tool at the right time. This is a step in the right direction, but I think for many users, just seeing so many Start Menu entries could be quite confusing.

For $39.95, System Utilities is good value for money, but only for users who are not afraid to dive into the wealth of different tools and find out what each does. For novice users who want to take things to the next level, it's a good gateway from a trusted company. Advanced users who like to keep their PC in tip-top shape could certainly cobble up a collection of loose freeware utilities, but they might also enjoy the cohesive feel of one well-built suite. I know I do.

You can watch me taking my first steps with System Utilities after the jump.

Note: We're going to be running a 10-license giveaway of WinZip System Utilities later on today, so keep your eyes peeled and your RSS reader open!

Continue reading WinZip releases new System Utilities Suite, we go hands-on

Download SquadWinZip releases new System Utilities Suite, we go hands-on originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsccleanerfeatureshands-onproductivitysystem utilities suiteSystemUtilitiesSuiteutilitieswindowswinzipMon, 14 Feb 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefox Friday: moving that orange button, beta 11, Firefox 7 (!) and Home Dash updates]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/firefox-round-up-moving-that-orange-button-beta-11-firefox-7/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/firefox-round-up-moving-that-orange-button-beta-11-firefox-7/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/11/firefox-round-up-moving-that-orange-button-beta-11-firefox-7/#commentsIt's a rare occurrence indeed when the Google Chrome news is crowded out by Firefox and Internet Explorer headlines -- but given Microsoft's massive investment in Internet Explorer 9, and Mozilla's excellent Firefox 4, perhaps it's not such a big surprise. Chrome isn't the fresh young upstart any more, and with now only a handful of unique features, Google will have to fight a lot harder to feed its hype machine in 2011.

The big news this week, then, was the apparent announcement of Firefox 4, 5, 6 and 7 before the end of 2011. I say apparent because the roadmap that we posted actually had 'Draft' written in nice big, bold letters across the top. It's amazing how the entire tech blogosphere missed it -- including us! -- but there you go.

Don't be too disheartened, though: it's all but confirmed that Firefox will be moving to a faster 3- or 4- month release cycle, but once you factor in a transitional period, it would be very hard to squeeze in Firefox 7 before the end of the year. We should at least see Firefox 6, however!

Now, about that hideous orange button...

Continue reading Firefox Friday: moving that orange button, beta 11, Firefox 7 (!) and Home Dash updates

Download SquadFirefox Friday: moving that orange button, beta 11, Firefox 7 (!) and Home Dash updates originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsersdo not trackDoNotTrackfeaturesff4b11firefoxfirefox fridayfirefox friday fiveFirefoxFridayFirefoxFridayFivehome dashHomeDashmozillamozilla labsMozillaLabsorange buttonOrangeButtonprospectorFri, 11 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[uTorrent 3 hands on: zero-config Web control, streaming, and one-click file sharing]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/07/utorrent-3-hands-on-zero-config-web-control-streaming-and-one/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/07/utorrent-3-hands-on-zero-config-web-control-streaming-and-one/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/07/utorrent-3-hands-on-zero-config-web-control-streaming-and-one/#commentsuTorrent 3 beta [download link], which has been publicly available since the end of 2010, is now stable enough and juicy enough for you to sink your teeth into.

As far as actual torrenting goes, uTorrent 3 is very similar to its precursor, but it's now very apparent that this new version is about extending the BitTorrent protocol -- and the company -- into another space entirely.

The main new feature, which we alluded to when we reviewed uTorrent Remote for Android last week, is integration with uTorrent Web. uTorrent Web is a completely new offering from BitTorrent (the company) that offers secure and private zero-config control of your torrents via a Web control panel.

There's more, though! Video and music streaming makes its return, and 'Pulse' torrent ratings are making their debut. Finally, there's a new way to share files with your friends with the magic of TinyURL, BitTorrent, and 'Web Seeds.' Read on for the full hands-on treatment.

Gallery: uTorrent 3: secure Web control panel, streaming, and simple file sharing

Pick a media player to streamPulse ratingsSimple file sharing with torrents!Setting up uTorrent WebuTorrent Web control panel

Continue reading uTorrent 3 hands on: zero-config Web control, streaming, and one-click file sharing

Download SquaduTorrent 3 hands on: zero-config Web control, streaming, and one-click file sharing originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbittorrentfeaturesfile sharingFileSharinghands-onp2pstreamingtorrenttorrentingutorrentutorrent webutorrent+3+betautorrent+3.0utorrent3.0utorrent3betaUtorrentWebwebweb seedsWebSeedswindowsMon, 07 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefox Friday: Firefox 5, HTML5 games, WebM DRM, and beta updates]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/firefox-friday-firefox-5-html5-games-webm-drm-and-beta-updates/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/firefox-friday-firefox-5-html5-games-webm-drm-and-beta-updates/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/firefox-friday-firefox-5-html5-games-webm-drm-and-beta-updates/#commentsLike a fiery phoenix rising from the ashes, Firefox Friday is back!

Mozilla has been incredibly silent since November, with the only real news being the adoption of two adorable red pandas (firefoxes) at Knoxville Zoo, Tennessee. The entire engineering team has been in crunch mode, churning through as many bugs as possible to get Firefox 4 into shape for late-February or early-March release, and thus, except for beta releases, not a whole lot has happened. Beta 11, incidentally, should be here in the next few days and beta 12 will be a week after that. Then, ladies and gentlemen, a week after that, we may have a release candidate on our hands.

Things have been a little more exciting at Mozilla Labs, however. It continues to churn out excellent (restartless!) add-ons like Home Dash and Instant Preview that will no doubt end up as built-in features of Firefox 5.

Yes, Firefox 5.

Continue reading Firefox Friday: Firefox 5, HTML5 games, WebM DRM, and beta updates

Download SquadFirefox Friday: Firefox 5, HTML5 games, WebM DRM, and beta updates originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drmfeaturesff4ff5firefox 4firefox 5firefox friday fiveFirefox4Firefox5FirefoxFridayFivegame on 2010GameOn2010html5open webOpenWebvp8webmFri, 04 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Five great photo sharing apps for your iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/best-iphone-photo-sharing-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/best-iphone-photo-sharing-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/04/best-iphone-photo-sharing-apps/#commentsPhoto sharing apps for iPhone Ever since the introduction of cameras to mobile phones people have been snapping photos of just about everything on their daily travels. The dawn of the smartphone brought the ability to share things to a wider audience than MMS could reach, and when the smartphone collided with decent-enough camera modules, the social photo sharing craze kicked off.

The iPhone hasn't escaped the deluge of photo sharing apps -- in fact you could say that the hotbed of social photo sharing has focused somewhat around Apple's idea of the perfect phone, with more and more apps and services cropping up each day. So it's about time we had a little round up of the best photo sharing apps and services available for the iPhone, to cut through the tripe and show you the goods.

Continue reading Five great photo sharing apps for your iPhone

Download SquadFive great photo sharing apps for your iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsburstncellphonesfeaturesflickrinstagramiOSiPhonelistspathphoto sharingphotographyPhotoSharingpicplzsocial networkingSocialNetworkingFri, 04 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[AppBrain vs. Android Market Web Store, which one will rule supreme?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/03/appbrain-vs-android-market-web-store-which-one-will-rule-supreme/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/03/appbrain-vs-android-market-web-store-which-one-will-rule-supreme/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/03/appbrain-vs-android-market-web-store-which-one-will-rule-supreme/#comments With yesterday's release of the Android Market Web Store, the venerable and superlative AppBrain finally has some competition. At first glance, the services are very similar -- the logos could be cut from the same mold, and both sites use green-and-grey highlights throughout. Even the layout is basically the same!

When you get right down to it, though, there are some marked differences between them. Don't be so quick to jump on the Android Market Web Store bandwagon -- it might be new and shiny, but AppBrain still has a lot of tricks up its sleeve.

Continue reading AppBrain vs. Android Market Web Store, which one will rule supreme?

Download SquadAppBrain vs. Android Market Web Store, which one will rule supreme? originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketandroid market web storeAndroidMarketAndroidMarketWebStoreapp discoveryappbrainAppDiscoveryappsfeatureshands-onThu, 03 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space for iOS review: console-quality survival horror on the iPhone and iPad]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/30/dead-space-for-ios-review-console-quality-survival-horror-on-iphone-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/30/dead-space-for-ios-review-console-quality-survival-horror-on-iphone-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/30/dead-space-for-ios-review-console-quality-survival-horror-on-iphone-ipad/#comments Dead Space is one of EA's best and biggest original IPs, and now to mark the release of Dead Space 2, the sci-fi survival horror franchise has made the leap to the portable screen. Dead Space for iOS charts an exclusive-to-the-App-Store prelude to the frightfest that is Dead Space 2. But does the visceral horror, suspense and thrilling action translate to the mobile screen? I took a look at the $9.99 Dead Space for iPad to see whether the game's managed live up to its 'console-quality' hype.

Continue reading Dead Space for iOS review: console-quality survival horror on the iPhone and iPad

Download SquadDead Space for iOS review: console-quality survival horror on the iPhone and iPad originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead SpaceDeadSpaceEAfeaturesgamesgaminghands-oniOSiPadiPhonereviewreviewsSun, 30 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Android launcher showdown: LauncherPro, ADW, Zeam, GO Launcher and QuickDesk]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/28/android-launcher-showdown-launcherpro-adw-zeam-go-launcher-quickdesk/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/28/android-launcher-showdown-launcherpro-adw-zeam-go-launcher-quickdesk/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/28/android-launcher-showdown-launcherpro-adw-zeam-go-launcher-quickdesk/#comments Android's greatest, platform-defining feature is customizability. The entire operating system is open-sourced, APIs are laid bare, and almost every user-facing part of the OS can be modified by apps.

There's no surprise, then, that replacement apps exist for almost every part of Android's stock functionality. In turn, to complete the circle of life, new versions of Android incorporate the functionality of replacement apps. It's the ecosystem of replacement apps, in fact, that helps drive Android's disgustingly fast iteration.

Today we're going to look at by far the most popular type of feature-replacement apps: launchers. With strong, age-old offerings from LauncherPro and ADW, and fresh upstarts Zeam, GO Launcher and QuickDesk, the field couldn't be stronger. Competition is driving developers to cram new features in on a weekly basis. The end result, of course, is that you and I get to reap the rewards.

But which launcher replacement is the best? There's only one way to find out.

Continue reading Android launcher showdown: LauncherPro, ADW, Zeam, GO Launcher and QuickDesk

Download SquadAndroid launcher showdown: LauncherPro, ADW, Zeam, GO Launcher and QuickDesk originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adwadw.launcherapp drawerAppDrawerappsfeaturesGO LauncherGoLauncherhands-onhome screenHomeScreenlauncherlauncher replacementlauncherproLauncherReplacementQuickDeskroundupFri, 28 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[20+ essential apps for new Mac users]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/27/20-essential-apps-for-new-mac-users/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/27/20-essential-apps-for-new-mac-users/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/27/20-essential-apps-for-new-mac-users/#comments It's a great time to be a Mac user. With the advent of the Mac App Store, downloading and updating apps is easier than it's ever been. And it doesn't stop with the store, either: there are plenty of essential apps you can just grab on your own, many of them free and open source.

It might take a minute to get used to a new library of apps, but your new Mac has apps that can equal or better a Windows machine when it comes to most common tasks. And that's if the Windows app you love isn't already cross-platform, or if you don't feel like using one of the many slick dual-boot or virtualization solutions out there to run Windows on your Mac.

Great apps are out there, but folks who are new to OS X might not know where to look for the cream of the crop, so here's a selection of 20+ fantastic Mac apps that should equip you for any occasion. This list is geared toward folks who are switching from Windows or using a Mac for the first time, but veteran Mac users might find some useful gems, too!

Continue reading 20+ essential apps for new Mac users

Download Squad20+ essential apps for new Mac users originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleappsdownloadsfeaturesmacmac app storeMacAppStoreThu, 27 Jan 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Swype vs. SlideIT: Battle of the Android keyboard swipers]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/24/swype-vs-slideit-comparison-battle-of-the-android-keyboard-swipers/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/24/swype-vs-slideit-comparison-battle-of-the-android-keyboard-swipers/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/24/swype-vs-slideit-comparison-battle-of-the-android-keyboard-swipers/#commentsSlideIT vs. Swype When you've got an itty-bitty touch-screen and need to pound out a quick email, the last thing you're going to want to do is type. I mean, tapping out a text message is fine every now and then, but when you're forced to type more than a couple of lines when you're on the go, sliding is definitely the way to go.

Sliding keyboards utilize the fact that each word, as it is typed, tends to create a unique pattern across the keyboard. So rather than tap-tap-tap, you just touch the screen and drag across the keys you wish to type on. The keyboard then uses the resulting squiggle to figure out what it is you were trying to type.

So far, so good. In theory it sounds great, but in real life things aren't always so silky-smooth. For example, what happens when you need to type a word the keyboard doesn't know, such as a name? Or when there's more than one possible interpretation for the squiggle you just drew?

That's where the differences between different sliding keyboards come into play. In this review I'll be focusing on the two best-known products: Swype and SlideIT. Continue reading after the fold to find out which one is better!

Gallery: Swype vs. SlideIT

SlideIT English keyboardSlideIT Hebrew keyboardSlideIT showing live suggestions while slidingSlideIT's emoticon keyboardSlideIT's Graffiti feature, used for number input

Continue reading Swype vs. SlideIT: Battle of the Android keyboard swipers

Download SquadSwype vs. SlideIT: Battle of the Android keyboard swipers originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscomparisonfeatureshandsonIMEinput methodInputMethodmobileon screen keyboardOnScreenKeyboardOSKproductivityreviewslideitswypeMon, 24 Jan 2011 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Twitter Tuesday: Twitter for Mac lets you tweet from anywhere in OS X, Tunisian revolution gets tweeted]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/18/twitter-tuesday-twitter-for-mac-lets-you-tweet-from-anywhere-in/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/18/twitter-tuesday-twitter-for-mac-lets-you-tweet-from-anywhere-in/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/18/twitter-tuesday-twitter-for-mac-lets-you-tweet-from-anywhere-in/#comments Hey, Twitter fans! You may remember a debate that sprung up last year about whether Twitter makes an effective tool for social change and grassroots organizing. Well-known author and New Yorker columnist Malcolm Gladwell said no, and Twitter founder Biz Stone wrote a rebuttal defending the service's usefulness to activists.

Well, at least one revolution has now been tweeted. Tunisia, the northernmost country in Africa, has forced out its president and called for a new election. The "Jasmine Revolution," as some are calling it, was tracked live around the world on Twitter. It's never been this easy to follow the events and voices of a large-scale political protest without a news station acting as a middleman. I'd say that's one point to Twitter for changing the way we experience world events.

On the other hand, as Martin Bryant points out at The Next Web Middle East, the real-time nature of Twitter makes it impossible to read everything when the tweets are coming as fast as furious as they were on #sidibouzid, the Tunisian protest hashtag. Also, popular hashtags attract spammers, further muddying the waters. Twitter's speed is a double-edged sword at the moment, so it's probably good that we still have traditional media around to filter the massive firehose of news tweets until there's a smarter user-controlled filtering system.

Continue reading Twitter Tuesday: Twitter for Mac lets you tweet from anywhere in OS X, Tunisian revolution gets tweeted

Download SquadTwitter Tuesday: Twitter for Mac lets you tweet from anywhere in OS X, Tunisian revolution gets tweeted originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columnsfeaturesSocialNetworkingtwittertwitter tuesdayTwitterTuesdayTue, 18 Jan 2011 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[What the Zuk: KeePass is an essential tool for your online security]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/02/what-the-zuk-keepass-is-an-essential-tool-for-your-online-security/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/02/what-the-zuk-keepass-is-an-essential-tool-for-your-online-security/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/02/what-the-zuk-keepass-is-an-essential-tool-for-your-online-security/#commentskeepass What the Zuk is a (very) occasional feature, in which I review software that I have been using for many years, and which is instrumental for my work. These are the first tools I install on every new system, the reliable work-horse applications I turn to for every need. In each installment I will explain what makes this particular program special, and why I find it so vital for my computing experience.

You need a password manager!

If you already use a password manager (such as LastPass), feel free to skip this part. But if you don't currently use one, let me reiterate: you need a password manager.

Saying "safeguarding your identity online is important" is almost like saying "wearing a seat belt is important"; that's quite an understatement to make. There's no lack of incentive: 2010 had some very high-profile security breaches, and it may very well be that your account (or a loved one's account) was impacted.

Continue reading What the Zuk: KeePass is an essential tool for your online security

Download SquadWhat the Zuk: KeePass is an essential tool for your online security originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsencryptionfeatureskeepasspasswordsprivacyreviewsecurityutilitieszukerlistSun, 02 Jan 2011 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[12 favorite Time Wasters from 2010 to kick off your 2011 gaming!]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/31/12-favorite-time-wasters-from-2010-to-kick-off-your-2011-gaming/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/31/12-favorite-time-wasters-from-2010-to-kick-off-your-2011-gaming/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/31/12-favorite-time-wasters-from-2010-to-kick-off-your-2011-gaming/#commentsOur 12 favorite Time Wasters from 2010 2010 has come to a close, and that means it's time for us to kill what little remains of your final Friday productivity with a look back at some of our best Time Wasters. Grab your mouse and keep your eyes peeled for the boss, it's time to fire up some casual gaming goodness in your Web browser!

Each screenshot is linked directly to the game pictured -- so when you see something which catches your eye, click on through and start playing!

Continue reading 12 favorite Time Wasters from 2010 to kick off your 2011 gaming!

Download Squad12 favorite Time Wasters from 2010 to kick off your 2011 gaming! originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualfeaturesflashflash gamesFlashGamesfungamesgaminghtml5listsphysicspuzzlepuzzlesroundupsmbsuper marioSuperMariotime wastertime wastersTimeWasterTimeWastersvideo gamesVideoGameswebFri, 31 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The 12 best apps for your new Android device]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/30/the-12-best-apps-for-your-new-android-device/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/30/the-12-best-apps-for-your-new-android-device/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/30/the-12-best-apps-for-your-new-android-device/#commentsBest Android apps for your new device So, you found a brand-new Android device under the tree a few days ago. Congratulations! Now what? In this post I'm going to recommend the very best apps to get off on the right foot with Android. If you've been using Android for a while, chances are you know most of these. Still, you might find a hidden gem or two. These are all based on my own use, so while the list is subjective in nature, these are not just shiny apps we've noticed in the market -- they have all been tested in real life for quite some time. Here goes:


Continue reading The 12 best apps for your new Android device

Download SquadThe 12 best apps for your new Android device originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsfeatureshgglistsreviewsThu, 30 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top new and updated Windows apps of 2010]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/30/top-new-and-updated-windows-apps-of-2010/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/30/top-new-and-updated-windows-apps-of-2010/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/30/top-new-and-updated-windows-apps-of-2010/#comments 2010 has been one heck of a year for software development. We've seen scores of great new apps released and major updates for many of our favorites. "Release early, iterate often" has become the norm -- with alpha and beta downloads coming at us fast and 0.1 becoming the new 1.0.

The speed of change with some apps has been mind-boggling at times. Can you believe that Google Chrome's stable channel began this year at version 3? Let's take a look at some of our favorite apps which released major updates or debuted in 2010!

Continue reading Top new and updated Windows apps of 2010

Download SquadTop new and updated Windows apps of 2010 originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsccleanerchromedropboxeaseusfeaturesfirefoxgoogle chromeGoogleChromeimgburninsynclive essentialsLiveEssentialsMSEoperasecurity essentialsSecurityEssentialssolutowindowsThu, 30 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best (or worst) security breaches of 2010]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/29/best-or-worst-security-breaches-of-2010/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/29/best-or-worst-security-breaches-of-2010/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/29/best-or-worst-security-breaches-of-2010/#commentsThe best (or worst) security breaches of 2010 Very soon now -- probably in a year or two -- once everyone carries a smartphone, there won't be any discernible difference between our offline flesh-and-blood body and our online persona. That's not to say that real-life face-to-face interaction will slither into the abyss -- far from it! -- but we are reaching a stage where almost anything can be done online.

This obviously raises security concerns. If I can transfer money out of my bank account with just a name and password, so can you. That isn't to say that online security is worse than offline, however. SSL-encrypted communications are infinitely more secure than banking over the phone, or speaking in hushed tones in a brick-and-mortar bank. Passwords are a lot more secure than merely providing a 4-digit PIN or a mother's maiden name, too.

The actual problem is databases, or centralized repositories of information. It's no good having a password to your account if a nefarious types hacks a bank and takes all of the accounts. Likewise, putting your bag in a locker doesn't help if someone lifts the entire block of lockers into a truck and drives off.

2010 was a bad year for digital security breaches, and it won't get better until every organization and institution hires a security specialist and puts proper safeguards in place. This post, then, is dedicated to the organizations and institutions that left the barn door open in 2010 -- shame on you!

Continue reading The best (or worst) security breaches of 2010

Download SquadThe best (or worst) security breaches of 2010 originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010app storeAppStorebreachfailfeaturesgawkergawker mediaGawkerMediagooglegoogle vs chinaGoogleVsChinahackituneskaperskykasperskyprivacyroundupsecuritythe pirate bayThePirateBayWed, 29 Dec 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The top Download Squad stories of 2010]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/28/the-top-download-squad-stories-of-2010/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/28/the-top-download-squad-stories-of-2010/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/28/the-top-download-squad-stories-of-2010/#comments As yet another year slips quietly into the annual abyss, it's customary to take a retrospective glance at all that has happened. While history is surely nowhere near as exciting as the future -- especially as far as technology is concerned -- we can still learn a lot by looking back at the events of a year and analyzing, with perfect hindsight, what actually happened. After all, it is one thing to report on a new advance or technology, but it's another thing entirely to see how that technology has actually changed the world.

We'll lead with a prime example.

Continue reading The top Download Squad stories of 2010

Download SquadThe top Download Squad stories of 2010 originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010androidangry birdsAngryBirdsappleappsbrowserbrowser warsBrowserWarsdlsdownload squadDownloadSquadfeaturesgamesgooglehgghtml5iosmobileroundupsmartphoneTue, 28 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The 20 iPad apps Gorillaz used on their new album, 'The Fall']]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/27/20-ipad-apps-gorillaz-album/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/27/20-ipad-apps-gorillaz-album/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/27/20-ipad-apps-gorillaz-album/#commentsGorillaz delivered a new album to their fans this Christmas, with a unique twist: it was created mostly on Damon Albarn's iPad. Albarn has revealed the list of 20 different apps he used to make "The Fall," and they're all available in the App Store for any aspiring musician who might want them. Unfortunately, buying up the iPad software to make your own Gorillaz-style album will run you just upward of $120, not including the additional hardware Albarn probably connected to his iPad.

The priciest apps on the list are the professional synths, like the $20 Korg iElectribe and the $11.99 Mellotronics M3000. AmpliTube, a software-based effects pedal that you can use by plugging a guitar or bass into your iPad, is also $20 (it also requires a $40 iRig adapter to connect your instruments). AmpliTube could run you even more, though, because some additional equalizers are available via in-app purchase.

Of course, not all of the apps used on the album require a rock star budget. Mugician is a powerful free synth -- although it's designed to be run through an amp -- and Gliss is a 99-cent sequencer that you control by drawing on the screen with your finger.

If you want to hear what Gorillaz did with all of these apps, download "The Fall" for free by signing up to the Gorillaz fan club mailing list. Below, you can check out the full list of the album's 20 apps (with handy App Store links included).

Continue reading The 20 iPad apps Gorillaz used on their new album, 'The Fall'

Download SquadThe 20 iPad apps Gorillaz used on their new album, 'The Fall' originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsfeaturesgorillaziosipadmusicrecordingsynthesizerthe fallTheFallMon, 27 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DLS goes nose-on with NoseDial for iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/dls-goes-nose-on-with-nosedial-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/dls-goes-nose-on-with-nosedial-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/dls-goes-nose-on-with-nosedial-for-iphone/#commentsNoseDial for iPhone Earlier in the week we told you about the app that aims to solve the iPhone user's winter dilemma. Do you a) take off your gloves and let you hands freeze, but be able to use your iPhone, or b) attempt to use Voice Control with the only button available? Well now with NoseDial, you have a third option: use your nose.

As your nose is normally the only thing that's left exposed with any sort of point on it, NoseDial attempts to put it to good use -- but does it work? Hit the break to see us put it to the test in our nose-on review.

Continue reading DLS goes nose-on with NoseDial for iPhone

Download SquadDLS goes nose-on with NoseDial for iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsfeatureshands-oniOSiPhoneNoseDialreviewsutilitiesFri, 24 Dec 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[5 ways to recycle or revitalize your old computer]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/5-ways-to-recycle-or-revitalize-your-old-computer/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/5-ways-to-recycle-or-revitalize-your-old-computer/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/5-ways-to-recycle-or-revitalize-your-old-computer/#commentsChristmas is coming, and you're about to have a ton of time off. Some of that time will be spent energetically tearing apart beautifully-wrapped gifts, and eating food is certainly next on the list of priorities. Obviously you have to play with your new gifts (or put on your new socks), but after that... after the postprandial sofa-surfing grunts and burps and farts... well, there isn't a whole lot you can do.

The other big thing about Christmas is the amount of waste it produces. Wrapping paper, cards, ribbons, the plastic packaging of the presents themselves... there's an awful lot of trash on Christmas Day. Then, of course, you need to throw out all of the things that have been replaced by new gifts: old kitchen appliances, clothes, televisions, printers and, most importantly, computers. A new laptop or desktop is incredibly cheap nowadays, which makes them very popular gifts.

But shouldn't we do something with the old stuff, rather than just throwing it out? Of course, you could Freecycle or wade into the Craigslist cesspit, or give your clothes to charity -- but hold onto those old computers! You'd be surprised with how many cool things you can do with an old desktop or laptop computer. You could finally learn how to use Linux, or set up a media center PC so that you can watch downloaded movies on your TV. You could create a locked-down box for your kids to surf the Web on, or a network-attached storage server for your backups. There's almost no end to the list of neat things you can do with an old PC!

Continue reading 5 ways to recycle or revitalize your old computer

Download Squad5 ways to recycle or revitalize your old computer originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backupcomputerdesktopdismantleDLNAfeaturesfreenashardwarehgghow-tolaptoplinuxNASnetworkingrecyclingstoragestreamingtvvideowebwindowsFri, 24 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free games for your new Windows computer]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/free-games-for-your-new-windows-computer/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/free-games-for-your-new-windows-computer/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/24/free-games-for-your-new-windows-computer/#comments Right now, Steam is running all kinds of crazy year-end deals and there are loads of games you can buy at crazy low prices. But maybe you're all tapped out right now -- and you'd like to get your hands on some fun games without having to shell out your remaining hard-earned cash?

No worries! We just pointed out 20 great free programs to install on your new system, and it's just as easy to find plenty of free games. First, some good news about your new Windows 7 computer: it's got some really great free games installed like Mahjong Titans and the much nicer-looking Solitaire.

Now, onward to the free games!

Continue reading Free games for your new Windows computer

Download SquadFree games for your new Windows computer originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien swarmAlienSwarmamericas armyAmericasArmydownloadfeaturesfreefungamesgaminghgglistspegglesteamtinkervalvevideogameswindowsFri, 24 Dec 2010 11:45:00 EST