Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.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[Microsoft Star Wars Xbox 360 bundle coming to a galaxy close to here, April 3rd]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/microsoft-star-wars-xbox-360-bundle-coming-to-a-galaxy-close-to/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/microsoft-star-wars-xbox-360-bundle-coming-to-a-galaxy-close-to/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/microsoft-star-wars-xbox-360-bundle-coming-to-a-galaxy-close-to/#comments
Come spring you'll finally be able to get your grubby paws on that droid-based console you've been looking for. Microsoft's Major Nelson let slip in a series of tweets that the Star Wars Xbox 360 Kinect bundle will land on April 3rd. The set, which was first unveiled, fittingly, at Comic Con, is dressed up like R2-D2 and ships with a C-3P0-themed controller, a white Kinect sensor and the games Star Wars Kinect and Kinect Adventures. The 320GB system will run you $449, so start saving up those Galactic Credits now.

Microsoft Star Wars Xbox 360 bundle coming to a galaxy close to here, April 3rd originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlekinectkinect adventuresKinectAdventuresmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmicrosoftstar warsstar wars kinectStarWarsStarWarsKinectxboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Director of Xbox Live policy and enforcement to leave Microsoft after 17 happy years]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/06/director-of-xbox-live-policy-and-enforcement-to-leave-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/06/director-of-xbox-live-policy-and-enforcement-to-leave-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/06/director-of-xbox-live-policy-and-enforcement-to-leave-microsoft/#comments
Stephen Toulouse, the man responsible for policing the not-so Wild West that we like to call Xbox Live is calling it a day. Announcing the news on his personal site, he told readers that the split was amicable, adding that he had no particular plans beyond visiting his family and taking it easy. Microsoft has declined to comment on any eventual successor just yet, but released a statement saying that "the Xbox Live Enforcement Squad will continue their work to help ensure a safer and more secure experience on Xbox Live for our nearly 40 million members." Admittedly, the online squad's had more luck than a certain competitor.

Director of Xbox Live policy and enforcement to leave Microsoft after 17 happy years originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftStephen ToulouseStephenToulousexboxxbox liveXbox Live policy and enforcementXboxLiveXboxLivePolicyAndEnforcementMon, 06 Feb 2012 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox co-creator brings together Atari 'dream team' for mobile gaming startup]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/xbox-co-creator-brings-together-atari-dream-team-for-mobile-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/xbox-co-creator-brings-together-atari-dream-team-for-mobile-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/xbox-co-creator-brings-together-atari-dream-team-for-mobile-ga/#comments A new mobile gaming startup that's yet to release a single game isn't the sort of thing we'd normally cover 'round here, but the story behind Los Angeles-based Innovative Leisure is anything but ordinary. The man behind the company is the co-creator of the Xbox, Seamus Blackley, and he's brought with him eleven industry veterans that he calls "the dream team from Atari," including the likes of Van Burnham, Ed Logg, Rich Adam, Tim Skelly, Owen Rubin, and Ed Rotberg. While those names may not be familiar to everyone, you'll surely recognize some of the games they were responsible for: Asteroids, Centipede, Gauntlet, Missile Command, Battlezone, S.T.U.N. Runner, Major Havoc and Space Duel, to name a few.

Speaking with VentureBeat, Blackley describes mobile devices as "the new arcade" and 99 cent games as the "new quarter," adding that he's aiming to carry on where Atari left off, "focusing on innovation in gameplay." To help with that, the company has secured backing from THQ, which has reportedly agreed to an initial slate of ten games, seven of which are now in development (with only the iPhone and iPad mentioned as supported platforms so far). Unfortunately, details remain light beyond that, with Blackley only offering late summer or fall as an estimated release date for the first titles. In the meantime, you can find more of the backstory at the links below (THQ's press release can also be found after the break).

Continue reading Xbox co-creator brings together Atari 'dream team' for mobile gaming startup

Xbox co-creator brings together Atari 'dream team' for mobile gaming startup originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsarcadearcade gamingArcadeGamingatarigamesgaminginnovative leisureInnovativeLeisuremobilepostcrossseamus blackleySeamusBlackleyvideo gamesVideoGamesxboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 17:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 adds Crackle and CinemaNow to list of up and running apps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/xbox-360-crackle-cinemanow-apps-available-now/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/xbox-360-crackle-cinemanow-apps-available-now/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/xbox-360-crackle-cinemanow-apps-available-now/#comments
You can't deny one of Microsoft's main goals with its revamped 360 dashboard update was to enhance the box's entertainment attributes, and now the Redmond crowd has flipped the live switch on two more vid-focused apps. Crackle and CinemaNow are joining the likes of Vudu and UFC as part of the latest additions to the Xbox app locker. Both apps are available now for those of us in the States, and while CinemaNow won't be heading elsewhere, Sony's Crackle is hitting three other markets: Australia, Canada and United Kingdom. There's no more info on when -- or if -- both apps will make way into more countries, but Microsoft did say that it'll "continue to enhance and expand" its Xbox Live offerings. We know you're eager to check out some Godzilla collections, so power on that console, head to the apps section and let the crackles set you free.

Continue reading Xbox 360 adds Crackle and CinemaNow to list of up and running apps

Xbox 360 adds Crackle and CinemaNow to list of up and running apps originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsaustraliacanadacinemanowcracklehdpostminimicrosoftukunited kingdomUnitedKingdomxboxxbox 360xbox 360 appsxbox 360 dashboardxbox 360 dashboard updateXbox360Xbox360AppsXbox360DashboardXbox360DashboardUpdateWed, 01 Feb 2012 00:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Xbox console to be six times more powerful, headed for fall 2013 release?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/next-xbox-console-to-be-six-times-more-powerful-headed-for-fall/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/next-xbox-console-to-be-six-times-more-powerful-headed-for-fall/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/next-xbox-console-to-be-six-times-more-powerful-headed-for-fall/#comments Xbox 720, Xbox Loop -- whatever Microsoft ends up calling it, that hot rod of a console looks to be on deck for a late fall 2013 release. According to IGN's sources, this successor to the Redmond gaming throne is purported to pack a GPU based on AMD's 6000 series of chips and will boast silicon circuitry that catapults its performance past Nintendo's upcoming Wii U by 20 percent. If you're looking for a more apples to green X's comparison, this next-gen console's graphical capabilities are also reportedly six times greater than its 360 progenitor. While MS is likely holding back its monstrous new platform for a big E3 reveal, it appears the company's still whittling down its spec list, with dev kits to be issued later this August. No mention was made of its rumored Kinect 2 integration, but we're more than certain that famous hacking tech will be front and center.

[Image credit: Joseph Dumary]

Next Xbox console to be six times more powerful, headed for fall 2013 release? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolegamingMicrosoftnext genNextGenrumorvideo gamesVideoGamesXboxXbox 720Xbox LoopXbox720XboxLoopTue, 24 Jan 2012 18:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft spoiling Canadians, Germans as Xbox Live gets more local stations]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/microsoft-spoiling-canadians-germans-as-xbox-live-gets-more-loc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/microsoft-spoiling-canadians-germans-as-xbox-live-gets-more-loc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/microsoft-spoiling-canadians-germans-as-xbox-live-gets-more-loc/#comments Remember when Microsoft couldn't stop dropping names of companies it was partnering up with to bring media to your Xbox 360? Well, days after CES drew to its natural conclusion, Redmond's gaming division is throwing a few more "locally relevant" names out for users in Canada and Germany. If you live in the cold bit to the north of the United States, you can expect to see Astral Media's Disney XD and Real Sports / Maple Leaf Sports rolling up on your console from today, while German gamers will be able to get teutonic mitts on Mediathek/ZDF at the same time. There's more details in the press release after the break, where Microsoft promises that we've not seen the last of its continued entertainment expansions.

Continue reading Microsoft spoiling Canadians, Germans as Xbox Live gets more local stations

Microsoft spoiling Canadians, Germans as Xbox Live gets more local stations originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 04:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360Disney XDDisneyXdhdpostminiLocal BroadcastersLocalBroadcastersMaple Leaf SportsMapleLeafSportsMediathekMicrosoftReal SportsRealSportsTVXboxXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox360XboxLiveZDFThu, 19 Jan 2012 04:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz/Tritton's Primer gaming headset arriving this week, we go ears-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/mad-catz-tritton-primer-gaming-headset-ces-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/mad-catz-tritton-primer-gaming-headset-ces-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/mad-catz-tritton-primer-gaming-headset-ces-2012/#comments With these gamer cans ready to bask in their full Xbox-certified glory in stores this week, we took the chance to hit up Tritton's stand here at CES to try on its Primer. Despite the call-center employee appearance [above], the earphones are relatively comfortable, although the head band seemed a bit tight. While the Primer offers a 33 foot reception radius, we found its limits of receiving audio were closer to 40 feet. The mic arm is flexible, with the adjustable headband affording a certain degree of customization. Despite the $100 price tag, Tritton fans looking for something more subtle than recent efforts will be happy -- just don't walk around a conference hall kitted out in it.

Edgar Alvarez contributed to this report.

Gallery: Mad Catz Tritton Primer gaming headset ears-on

Mad Catz/Tritton's Primer gaming headset arriving this week, we go ears-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESCES2012gaminghands-onMad CatzMadCatzminipostPrimerSciTechTrittonxboxXbox 360Xbox360Xbox360 LogoutXbox360LogoutWed, 11 Jan 2012 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Turtle Beach expands its wireless headset lineup, intros XP400 with adjustable surround sound, stereo XP300]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/turtle-beach-expands-its-wireless-headset-lineup-intros-xp400-w/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/turtle-beach-expands-its-wireless-headset-lineup-intros-xp400-w/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/turtle-beach-expands-its-wireless-headset-lineup-intros-xp400-w/#comments
If you'll recall, along with its pre-CES unveiling of new gaming and lifestyle headsets, Turtle Beach promised a bigger "surprise announcement" for day one of the show here in Vegas. Well, it's just spilled the beans on an impressive new duo of Xbox-oriented (and PlayStation compatible) Ear Force wireless gaming headsets. Meet the XP400 with Dolby 5.1 virtual surround sound and the identical, but stereo, XP300. We're told that they're essentially the younger siblings of the company's PX5-rooted XP500, featuring a similar design with totally wireless connection to the Xbox 360 (thanks to TB's Xbox Chat Adapter), and a dual-pairing Bluetooth radio for taking calls while gaming. Furthermore, both headsets actually improve upon the XP500's, in a few key areas including: better button placement on the earcups, a new 2.4/5GHz dual-band WiFi 2.4GHz transmitter to avoid interference from nearby wireless devices and an included 15-hour rechargeable battery so you won't be hunting for AAAs.

While both headsets feature customizable EQs, the XP400 steps things up from the XP300 with tweakable Dolby 5.1 simulated surround sound, thanks to some special work on Turtle Beach's end. Notably, it's the first headset from Turtle with the ability, dubbed "adjustable surround sound angles," and it means you'll now be able to customize the placement of the virtual speakers to your preference, rather than being stuck to Dolby Headphone's usual preset parameters. Both headsets will be available in earlier 2012, with the XP400 priced at $220 and the XP300 at 50 bucks less. If you'd like the full rundown of specs and features, you'd best check out the press release we've kindly embedded just past the break.

Continue reading Turtle Beach expands its wireless headset lineup, intros XP400 with adjustable surround sound, stereo XP300

Turtle Beach expands its wireless headset lineup, intros XP400 with adjustable surround sound, stereo XP300 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.4 ghz2.4Ghz5 ghz5Ghzaudiocesces 2012Ces2012dolbydolby 5.1 surround sounddolby digitalDolby5.1SurroundSoundDolbyDigitaldual-band wifiDual-bandWififpsgamingheadphonesheadsetplaystationrechargeablerfsoundturtle beachTurtleBeachvirtual surround soundVirtualSurroundSoundwifixboxxp300xp400Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[HBO Go adding 5.1 surround sound with help of Dolby Digital Plus]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/hbo-go-adding-5-1-surround-sound-with-help-of-dolby-digital-plus/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/hbo-go-adding-5-1-surround-sound-with-help-of-dolby-digital-plus/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/hbo-go-adding-5-1-surround-sound-with-help-of-dolby-digital-plus/#comments
Your love of discrete surround sound holding you back from enjoying the fruits of the modern streaming? No longer. HBO has licensed Dolby Digital Plus for HBO Go which will enable HDTVs, Blu-ray players and game consoles like the Xbox 360 and PS3 to enjoy 5.1 (or more) channel discrete surround sound. A quick reminder, Dolby Digital Plus is the newer version of Dolby Digital -- that we've loved since 1997 -- and is capable of 5.1 or more channels and at a lower bitrate than its older brother.

HBO Go adding 5.1 surround sound with help of Dolby Digital Plus originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-ray playersBlu-rayPlayersCESCES 2012Ces2012DD+DolbyDolby Digital PlusDolbyDigitalPlusHBOHBO GoHboGohdpostcrossPS3streamingXboxXbox 360Xbox360Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Kinect coming to Windows on February 1st, up for pre-order now!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/microsoft-kinect-coming-to-windows-on-february-1-2012-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/microsoft-kinect-coming-to-windows-on-february-1-2012-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/microsoft-kinect-coming-to-windows-on-february-1-2012-ces/#comments Straight out of the horse's mouth: Kinect is oh-ficially coming to Windows starting on February 1st! We've seen Microsoft's PrimeSense-sourced motion sensing system used for just about everything outside of gaming, but proper Windows compatibility is bound to mean huge, huge things for its future. Wondering what's next for Kinect? So is Microsoft, and in just a few weeks, it'll make it even easier for you to answer that.

Update: It's up for pre-order now! The $249.99 price tag ain't pretty (consider this -- the standard Kinect, with games, is but $120), but it'll probably be a premium that many hackers are willing to pay. Thanks, Mary Jo Foley!

Microsoft Kinect coming to Windows on February 1st, up for pre-order now! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newscesces 2012Ces2012kinectkinect for windowsKinectForWindowsmicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinecton saleOnSalepre-ordersteve ballmerSteveBallmerwindowsxboxboxxbox 360Xbox360Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft bringing Comcast Xfinity TV to Xbox 360, nails down News Corp. partnership]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/microsoft-comcast-xfinity-tv-news-corporation-partnership-ces-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/microsoft-comcast-xfinity-tv-news-corporation-partnership-ces-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/microsoft-comcast-xfinity-tv-news-corporation-partnership-ces-2012/#comments Microsoft told us not to expect a heck of a lot of news from its 2012 CES keynote, but it just took the wraps off of a couple of content partnerships. For one, we're told that Comcast's Xfinity TV will soon be coming to Xbox 360 (FiOS users are finally getting a little company, as it were), and moreover, there's a new News Corporation partnership that'll bring Fox News, Wall Street Journal, Fox and IGN to the aforesaid console. Craig Davidson, Director of Xbox, also threw a verbal high-five to U-Verse, Telus and Telefonica. No word on launch dates, unfortunately, but we're guessing the parties involved will be making their own announcements on that.

Microsoft bringing Comcast Xfinity TV to Xbox 360, nails down News Corp. partnership originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newscesces 2012Ces2012comcastcontentfoxfox newsFoxNewsmicrosoftnewsnews corpNewsCorpprogrammingxboxxbox 360Xbox360xfinityMon, 09 Jan 2012 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Chaotic Moon shows Xbox Kinect / Windows 8-powered electric skateboard (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/chaotic-moon-xbox-kinect-windows-8-electric-skateboard-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/chaotic-moon-xbox-kinect-windows-8-electric-skateboard-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/chaotic-moon-xbox-kinect-windows-8-electric-skateboard-video/#comments What if you combined a prototype Windows 8 tablet, an electric skateboard and Microsoft's Kinect? Funnily enough, the folks at Chaotic Moon Studios wondered the same, and they didn't stop there. Here at CES 2012, the outfit showcased a downright amazing wheeled machine, capable of reaching speeds as high as 32mph. It's being labeled the Board of Awesomeness, but frankly, that's an understatement. The company's calling this the world's first Xbox Kinect-controlled skateboard, utilizing video recognition, speech recognition, gesture recognition, localization data, accelerometer data, and other factors to determine what the user wants to do. Enough chatter -- head on past the break to see this thing in action.

Continue reading Chaotic Moon shows Xbox Kinect / Windows 8-powered electric skateboard (video)

Chaotic Moon shows Xbox Kinect / Windows 8-powered electric skateboard (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Board of AwesomenessBoardOfAwesomenesscesces 2012Ces2012Chaotic MoonChaotic Moon studiosChaoticMoonChaoticMoonStudioskinectmicrosoftprototypesamsungskateboardvideowindowswindows 8Windows8XboxXbox 360Xbox360Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz / Tritton ship 5.8 Ghz wireless headset for Xbox 360, dub it Primer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/mad-catz-tritton-ship-5-8-ghz-wireless-headset-for-xbox-360-d/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/mad-catz-tritton-ship-5-8-ghz-wireless-headset-for-xbox-360-d/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/mad-catz-tritton-ship-5-8-ghz-wireless-headset-for-xbox-360-d/#comments If the exclusive third-party manufacturer of wireless Xbox 360 didn't have enough options for you, Mad Catz and Tritton just unleashed another. The outfit's latest set of gaming cans, the Primer, features two 40mm drivers, separate volume controls for game and voice and proprietary 5.8 Ghz wireless digs for superior audio clarity. Sound like a good fit? They'll set you back $100. Read on for a short, but official, press release.

Continue reading Mad Catz / Tritton ship 5.8 Ghz wireless headset for Xbox 360, dub it Primer

Mad Catz / Tritton ship 5.8 Ghz wireless headset for Xbox 360, dub it Primer originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESCES2012gamingMad CatzMadCatzminipostPrimerSci/TechTrittonxboxXbox 360Xbox360Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft loosens up on Xbox Live Indie Game devs: increases file allowance, drops minimum price to $1]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/xbox-live-indie-game-devs-increases-file-size-reduces-minimum-game-price/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/xbox-live-indie-game-devs-increases-file-size-reduces-minimum-game-price/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/xbox-live-indie-game-devs-increases-file-size-reduces-minimum-game-price/#comments

The Xbox Live gatekeepers have decided to cut their faithful indie game developers some slack -- but not too much, mind. New changes for 2012 include a new 80 point ($1) entry price for smaller games, expanded size limits (up to 500MB) and the ability to create up to 20 titles -- devs were previously limited to half of that. However, there's still no access to Xbox Live Achievements or Leaderboards for those impoverished indie developers. Way to keep the little people down, Microsoft.

Microsoft loosens up on Xbox Live Indie Game devs: increases file allowance, drops minimum price to $1 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developersgamingindie gamesIndieGamesminipostxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox Live Indie GamesXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveIndieGamesThu, 05 Jan 2012 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft acknowledges Xbox Live 'Error 801540B7,' promises to resolve it ASAP]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/microsoft-acknowledges-xbox-live-error-801540b7-promises-to-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/microsoft-acknowledges-xbox-live-error-801540b7-promises-to-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/microsoft-acknowledges-xbox-live-error-801540b7-promises-to-r/#comments The recent Xbox Live Dashboard update was heralded as a boon amongst users, but unfortunately for some of you, the new version didn't just come bearing gifts. A number of people are experiencing an issue, more commonly known as "Error 801540B7," that's keeping them from getting their daily media fix by booting them from the Live network and locking its purchased-content doors. Microsoft's aware of the symptoms and it knows you've got lots of online appointments to wax chumps and smoke fools, so it's told the folks at Joystiq that a solution is in the works. We hope your console isn't affected by the blunder, but let us know in the comments if it is, and we'll keep you posted when the problem's fixed.

Microsoft acknowledges Xbox Live 'Error 801540B7,' promises to resolve it ASAP originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Error 801540B7Error801540b7microsoftminipostxboxxbox 360xbox livexbox live Error 801540B7Xbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveError801540b7Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck delivers holiday cheer to gamer with modded macro controller]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/ben-heck-delivers-holiday-cheer-to-gamer-with-modded-macro-contr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/ben-heck-delivers-holiday-cheer-to-gamer-with-modded-macro-contr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/ben-heck-delivers-holiday-cheer-to-gamer-with-modded-macro-contr/#comments Patrick Crowley Benjamin J. Heckendorn is no stranger to game pads designed for people with disabilities, but the macro controller he just whipped up for Patrick Crowley (pictured above) might be his most impressive accessibility hack yet. On the latest episode of his show the modding extraordinaire crafts a breakout box that allows a complex set of commands to be triggered with just the touch of a button or foot switch. The box at the heart of the project is powered by a PIC microcontroller that takes inputs from a series of modular switches (up to eight) and turns them into virtual button presses that are fed to an Xbox 360 through a standard controller. In addition to being able to swap in eight different inputs, each one can be programmed to perform a different macro. We won't ruin all of the fun -- check out the PR and full episode in the source link to watch everything from Ben Heck's holiday epiphany through the final testing.

Continue reading Ben Heck delivers holiday cheer to gamer with modded macro controller

Ben Heck delivers holiday cheer to gamer with modded macro controller originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessibilityaccessibility controllerAccessibilityControllerben heckBenHeckbenjamin heckendornbenjamin j. heckendornBenjaminHeckendornBenjaminJ.Heckendorncontrollerhackhacksmacro controllerMacroControllermodpatrick crowleyPatrickCrowleythe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowxboxxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's CES 2012 keynote won't deliver 'significant news,' more of 'a wrap-up']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/microsofts-ces-2012-keynote-wont-deliver-significant-news-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/microsofts-ces-2012-keynote-wont-deliver-significant-news-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/microsofts-ces-2012-keynote-wont-deliver-significant-news-m/#comments After learning of Microsoft's plans to stop holding CES keynotes following the 2012 edition, the immediate attention turned to this: would it use its last opportunity on the main stage to make a lasting impact? Evidently, that answer is "no." We've confirmed with the company that Steve Ballmer will be "focusing quite a bit on Windows Phone and the its Xbox / entertainment story," while also sharing "momentum from across the company for Windows, Office, Bing, etc." Ultimately, we're told that there "won't be significant news, but more of a wrap up of the strong year the company has had in consumer." We've got a call out for further clarifications (as well as questions on whether or not another BUILD, MIX or some other spinoff event will take the theoretical place of CES), and we'll be sure to update as we learn more.

Update: While Microsoft can't confirm specifics, we're getting the impression that the company's partners will be the ones leading and driving announcements in the CES events to come. And while it wouldn't comment specifically on the future of MIX or BUILD, we're told that "it will continue to invest in those kinds of owned venues going forward."

Update 2: The CEA, also known as the entity that puts CES together, has officially responded to the news. It also affirmed that Microsoft will not reserve the massive Central Hall exhibit space that it has used in past years, but it seems pretty unconcerned about the whole ordeal. The full statement is after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft's CES 2012 keynote won't deliver 'significant news,' more of 'a wrap-up'

Microsoft's CES 2012 keynote won't deliver 'significant news,' more of 'a wrap-up' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bingbreaking newsceacesces 2012Ces2012consumer electronics showConsumerElectronicsShowmicrosoftofficesteve ballmerSteveBallmerxboxxbox 360Xbox360zuneWed, 21 Dec 2011 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's final CES keynote will be in 2012, bad timing to blame]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/microsofts-final-ces-keynote-will-be-in-2012-bad-timing-to-bla/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/microsofts-final-ces-keynote-will-be-in-2012-bad-timing-to-bla/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/microsofts-final-ces-keynote-will-be-in-2012-bad-timing-to-bla/#comments Woo, boy. The CEA's none too happy about this, we're sure. Microsoft has just announced that its final CES keynote will happen in 2012. After that?

"We'll continue to participate in CES as a great place to connect with partners and customers across the PC, phone and entertainment industries, but we won't have a keynote or booth after this year because our product news milestones generally don't align with the show's January timing."

That's according to Frank X. Shaw, VP of Corporate Communications at Microsoft, who goes on to say that this industry is moving fast and changing even faster, and in an effort to attack the needs and demands of consumers in a hastier fashion, it simply cannot be held to a yearly schedule where one major show dictates the timing of a given release. It's important to note that Microsoft isn't pulling out of CES entirely -- you'll still find plenty of staffers roaming the show floor and cutting deals in the backrooms of Vegas-area hotels, but it won't be investing in a huge booth presence after January. It doesn't take a historian to see the trend here. If you'll recall, Apple decided to pretty much do the exact same thing when it pulled out of its yearly MacWorld keynote schedule back in 2008. The company simply felt that it would have more control over its own releases if a certain day on a certain entity's calendar wasn't pulling the strings, and we honestly believe that Microsoft is just the next of many to feel similarly.

While CES is a fantastic event for launching products and drawing eyes, the timing has always struck us as horrific. We were pleased as punch when the CEA pushed the entire thing up a week starting in 2012, but it's still a bizarre window. For one, it immediately follows two major holidays, and furthermore, it's just two weeks after the year's busiest shopping season -- you know, a season where launching new products a few months before would make a lot more sense. We've definitely noticed some level of splintering over the years when it comes to trade shows, and as consumer demands become more and more unshakable, we get the feeling that being nailed to a January launch schedule will grow ever more uncomfortable. Time will tell, eh?

Update: We've just learned of Microsoft's plans for its 2012 keynote; seemingly, it'll be going out sans bang. Ballmer will be focusing on Windows Phone and the Xbox / entertainment story, while also sharing "momentum" for the company as a whole. Nothing major, though. Drat!

Microsoft's final CES keynote will be in 2012, bad timing to blame originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsceacesces 2012Ces2012consumer electronics showConsumerElectronicsShowfrank shawfrank x shawfrank x. shawFrankShawFrankX.ShawFrankXShawkeynotemicrosofttrade showTradeShowwindowswindows 8Windows8xboxxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[YouTube, Verizon FiOS TV and more video services roll out to Xbox Live]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/youtube-verizon-fios-tv-and-more-video-services-roll-out-to-xbo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/youtube-verizon-fios-tv-and-more-video-services-roll-out-to-xbo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/youtube-verizon-fios-tv-and-more-video-services-roll-out-to-xbo/#comments
Those in the preview program may have already gotten an early taste of YouTube on the Xbox 360, but everyone else can now download that and more. Microsoft announced today that the first big wave of video services for the console are available in the Apps Marketplace, including Verizon FiOS TV for US users and Rogers on Demand for those in Canada. Those are joined by a number of other video and entertainment services including iHeartRadio and MSNBC.com (both US only), TMZ (US and Canada), and MSN Video (in Canada and some other countries, but not the US). Those outside of North America also have a few options of their own, including SBS On Demand for Australian users, Blinkbox in the UK, RTVE for Spain, and MUZU TV for a number of European countries. As for the remaining services, including the likes of Comcast and HBO Go, Microsoft is still only saying that they'll roll out later in December and in early 2012.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

YouTube, Verizon FiOS TV and more video services roll out to Xbox Live originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiosfios tvFiosTvhdpostcrossmicrosoftrogers on demandRogersOnDemandverizonverizon fios tvVerizonFiosTvxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLiveyoutubeTue, 13 Dec 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[YouTube app for Xbox 360 rolls out to preview program participants]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/youtube-app-for-xbox-360-rolls-out-to-preview-program-participan/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/youtube-app-for-xbox-360-rolls-out-to-preview-program-participan/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/13/youtube-app-for-xbox-360-rolls-out-to-preview-program-participan/#comments It's only available to those in the Xbox Live preview program at the moment, but you can officially add the Xbox 360 to the list of platforms that offer access to YouTube videos. Beta participants should be now able to download the app from the console's new Apps Marketplace, and find all the usual personalized features you'd expect from YouTube, plus the Kinect controls you'd expect from an Xbox app. Still no word about a roll-out to everyone else, nor is there any word on a firm release date for all those other new video services slated to hit the console (they're still just promised for "later in December").

[Thanks, Jack]

YouTube app for Xbox 360 rolls out to preview program participants originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 03:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apphdpostcrossmicrosoftpreview programPreviewProgramvideoxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLiveyoutubeyoutube appYoutubeAppTue, 13 Dec 2011 03:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft on the hunt for original programming head, eyes ex-NBC execs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/microsoft-on-the-hunt-for-original-programming-head-eyes-ex-nbc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/microsoft-on-the-hunt-for-original-programming-head-eyes-ex-nbc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/12/microsoft-on-the-hunt-for-original-programming-head-eyes-ex-nbc/#comments It's not MSNBC, it's MSex-NBC. Or it very well could be, as Bloomberg reports a second marriage of sorts is purportedly on deck for Microsoft and two former Peacock execs, Marc Graboff and Jeff Gaspin. Redmond's already made public plans to expand its Xbox Live streaming platform beyond VOD and into live TV, having announced a trio of content partners at this year's E3, so news of an in-house original programming push comes as no surprise. While it remains to be seen just what types of series, scripted or otherwise, are in the works, the company appears willing to press pause on the entire initiative should a suitable candidate fail to materialize. That's all the rumor mill's wrought for now, folks, but we'll keep you posted on this as it develops. And no, a certain Ms. Maddow likely won't be coming soon to an Xbox 360 near you.

Microsoft on the hunt for original programming head, eyes ex-NBC execs originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdpostcrossJeff GaspinJeffGaspinlive TVLiveTvMarc GraboffMarcGraboffMicrosoftMSoriginal programmingOriginalProgrammingstreaming platformStreamingPlatformTVXboxXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox360XboxLiveMon, 12 Dec 2011 21:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Fall Xbox 360 Dashboard update brings WTV file support, but don't get too excited]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/fall-xbox-360-dashboard-update-brings-wtv-file-support-but-don/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/fall-xbox-360-dashboard-update-brings-wtv-file-support-but-don/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/fall-xbox-360-dashboard-update-brings-wtv-file-support-but-don/#comments Browsing WTV files on the Xbox If you've actually heard of the WTV recorded TV file format, then you're probably a Windows 7 Media Center fan, and thus you're excited at any indication that Microsoft hasn't completely forgotten about you. That small gesture came this week with the new Xbox Dashboard update, but sadly it isn't much to get excited about. It's bad enough that it took Microsoft over three years to add support for WTV at all, but now it's here and it's one step above useless. Sure, you can play the files -- after waiting almost 30 seconds for them to load -- but you can't fast forward, rewind, skip around or even resume. The list of shows only displays the episode title and rather than the actual show name, and that's the only metadata you get. Speaking of the show title, that is also the only way to sort -- no folders or by date. So yeah, the new Dashboard supports WTV, but not in a way which actually makes it useful. Better than nothing, we guess.

Fall Xbox 360 Dashboard update brings WTV file support, but don't get too excited originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 07:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDhdpostminiHDTVMicrosoftWindows 7 Media CenterWindows Media CenterWindows7MediaCenterWindowsMediaCenterWTVXboxXbox 360Xbox360Fri, 09 Dec 2011 07:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live companion apps now available for Windows Phone and iOS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/xbox-live-companion-apps-now-available-for-windows-phone-and-ios/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/xbox-live-companion-apps-now-available-for-windows-phone-and-ios/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/07/xbox-live-companion-apps-now-available-for-windows-phone-and-ios/#comments As expected, Microsoft has made its new and improved Xbox Companion app for Windows Phone available to coincide with the latest Xbox dashboard update -- what's not so expected is the iOS app that also rolled out today. Dubbed My Xbox Live, the iOS app (optimized for both iPhone and iPad) is expectedly a bit more limited than its Windows Phone counterpart, but it will let you read and send messages, edit your profile and update your avatar, manage your friend list, and keep an eye on your achievements (and those of your friends). The new Windows Phone app, on the other hand, brings with it a decidedly more integrated experience, including the ability to search for games, music and movies available through Xbox Live, and view second screen information while you're using your console. Hit the appropriate source link below to download the app of your choice.

Continue reading Xbox Live companion apps now available for Windows Phone and iOS

Xbox Live companion apps now available for Windows Phone and iOS originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleiosipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchlive appLiveAppmy xbox liveMyXboxLivevideowindows phonewindows phone 7windows phone 7.5WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7WindowsPhone7.5wp7xboxxbox 360xbox companionxbox liveXbox360XboxCompanionXboxLiveWed, 07 Dec 2011 17:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 fall dashboard update 'slightly' delayed (update: it's live!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update-slightly-delayed-stay-tuned/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update-slightly-delayed-stay-tuned/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/06/xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update-slightly-delayed-stay-tuned/#comments Still haven't received that fresh new Xbox 360 dashboard update? Don't worry, no one else has either. Major Nelson tweeted "The timing for Xbox 360 update has been slightly delayed" from the planned 10AM ET launch, and promised a status update later today, but for the time being there's no other word on why, or when it will arrive. In the meantime, feel free to read our review again, make sure your Kinect sensor is tuned, or maybe take a swing Geometry Wars for old times sake. We'll let you know when there's more information available.

Update: Looks like it's rolled out for a bunch of you. A screenshot from a tipster awaits after the break and let us know how you fared in comments! Major Nelson just tweeted it's rolling out to all users now, so go ahead and log in and you should have an upgrade waiting.

Update 2: Well, getting the update may be tricky, with Xbox Live inaccessible for many right now. Some have suggested signing in on Xbox.com and accepting the new TOS as a way to make it work on your console, but until tings are back to normal we'd suggest keeping an eye on the XBL status page.

[Thanks Andy]

Continue reading Xbox 360 fall dashboard update 'slightly' delayed (update: it's live!)

Xbox 360 fall dashboard update 'slightly' delayed (update: it's live!) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboardfall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdate2011hdpostcrosskinectmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmicrosoftupdatexboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Companion app for WP7 will launch alongside the new dashboard December 6th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-will-launch-alongside-the-new-dashboa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-will-launch-alongside-the-new-dashboa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-will-launch-alongside-the-new-dashboa/#comments The fall 2011 dashboard update for Microsoft's Xbox 360 is just a day or so away from arriving and while certain video partners may not be ready to ring the bell day one, its slick Xbox Companion app for Windows Phone 7 (caught on video here and here) will be there. The app lets users search the Xbox catalog of games, movies, and more directly from their phone, get second screen information on what ever the console is currently playing, see friend activity, or act as a remote control. It's free for all WP7 users and will be available Tuesday, check the gallery below for a few more screen shots and Major Nelson's blog for specific details.

Gallery: Xbox Companion App for WP7

Xbox Companion app for WP7 will launch alongside the new dashboard December 6th originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall 2011 dashboard updateFall2011DashboardUpdatehdpostcrossminipostmobilepostcrossremoteremote controlRemoteControlwindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7xboxxbox 360xbox companionxbox companion appXbox360XboxCompanionXboxCompanionAppMon, 05 Dec 2011 00:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/#comments Kiss that old "New Xbox Experience" goodbye -- the Xbox Dashboard just went full Metro. Microsoft teased the console's latest overhaul back at E3, promising to "change living room entertainment forever." The following months saw leaks, previews and betas, all leading up to today, the eve of the Xbox 360's Fall Dashboard update. Is the new dash the game-changer it hopes to be? Hit the break, and we'll find out together.

Gallery: Xbox Live 2011 Fall Dashboard update

Continue reading Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011)

Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsBingbing controlbing searchBingControlBingSearchdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateFacebookfall dashboard updatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdateFallDashboardUpdate2011gaminghdpostcrossHuluimpressionskinectkinect voiceKinectVoiceMetroMetro UIMetroUiMicrMicrosoftMicrosoft Windowsmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360netflixnetflix appNetflixAppreviewSci/Techvoice controlVoiceControlWindows MobilexboxXbox 360Xbox 360 ControllerXbox LiveXbox360ZuneMon, 05 Dec 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[SandyStation interactive sandbox uses Kinect to make topography much more interesting (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sandystation-interactive-sandbox-uses-kinect-to-make-topography/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sandystation-interactive-sandbox-uses-kinect-to-make-topography/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sandystation-interactive-sandbox-uses-kinect-to-make-topography/#comments
If you're not really into using your Kinect experiment to launch your new startup or give your next presentation, let us offer another entertaining option. Two students at the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen have created an interactive sandbox using Kinect, a projector, a computer and, of course, a box chock full of sand. The Xbox motion / depth detector is installed about two feet above the sand pit to measure each area that is carved out. Using a unique detection program, the topographical information is then transmitted to a data projector that renders an image in the sandpit -- the image being a color based on the height or depth of what has been created. The devs have built out a few different projections. Hills that are constructed by the user are assigned a shade of green based on height, while troughs are given blue hues according to depth. What's that? You built a hill and dug out the center? The projector sees that as a volcano, complete with spewing lava. If you're tired of SimCity and want to actually get your hands dirty, take a peak at the video just past the break.

[Thanks, Mark]

Continue reading SandyStation interactive sandbox uses Kinect to make topography much more interesting (video)

SandyStation interactive sandbox uses Kinect to make topography much more interesting (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 01:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Czech RepublicCzechRepublichackinteractive sandboxInteractiveSandboxkinectkinect hackKinectHackmicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectMSMSFTprogramprogrammingprojectorsandboxsandystationtopographyvideowindowsxboxWed, 30 Nov 2011 01:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/verizon-details-live-fios-tv-service-for-xbox-360-kinect-contro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/verizon-details-live-fios-tv-service-for-xbox-360-kinect-contro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/verizon-details-live-fios-tv-service-for-xbox-360-kinect-contro/#comments
Microsoft announced back in October that it would be bringing live FiOS TV channels to the Xbox 360 (along with some offerings from Comcast), and Verizon has now finally filled in most of the specifics. As expected, you'll need both FiOS TV and internet, plus an Xbox Live Gold membership to access the "select" live channels (up to 26 depending on your TV package), but Verizon is making a special offer available to coincide with the launch. You can get its FiOS Triple Play package including FiOS internet, TV and phone, plus a year of Xbox Live Gold for $89.99 a month if you sign up before January 21st, and Verizon will also throw in the new anniversary edition of Halo. What's more, Verizon has also confirmed that the new service will make use of Kinect voice and gesture controls, and it's accepting orders for the new bundle package right now -- the service itself will be available next month.

Continue reading Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap

Verizon details live FiOS TV service for Xbox 360, Kinect controls on tap originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channelsfiosfios tvFiosTvhdpostcrosslive tvLiveTvmicrosofttvtv channelsTvChannelsverizonxboxxbox livexbox live goldXboxLiveXboxLiveGoldTue, 29 Nov 2011 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor mill: next gen Xboxes + Kinect 2 to read lips, track fingers, make unicorns real]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/28/rumor-mill-next-gen-xboxes-kinect-2-to-read-lips-track-finge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/28/rumor-mill-next-gen-xboxes-kinect-2-to-read-lips-track-finge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/28/rumor-mill-next-gen-xboxes-kinect-2-to-read-lips-track-finge/#comments
Pinches of salt at the ready, folks. According to the latest speculation, Microsoft's sequel to the Xbox 360 will actually be two models, a pared down set-top box for casual gamers and a heftier model for the hardcore. Either way, Xbox 720 / Xbox Loop's getting paired up with a revised version of the magnificent Kinect hardware. The digital grapevine's saying that Kinect 2 will be able to read your lips, track your fingers and sense the tone of your voice to determine if you've come over all angry. It can't do that currently thanks to its USB cable, which can only transmit 16MB/s of data -- limiting the camera's resolution to 320 x 240 at 30fps. We don't know what protocol the new sensor bar will use, but we do know that either USB 3.0 (which can transmit 400 MB/s) or Intel's Thunderbolt (700MB/s) would remove such limitations. In related news, 2012's Kinect for Windows is getting a shorter USB cable for better data integrity and a refocused image sensor that will switch to "near mode" to see objects 50cm away -- which means a whole bunch of classic Kinects and Nyko Zooms are gonna wind up as a filling for a New Mexico landfill.

Rumor mill: next gen Xboxes + Kinect 2 to read lips, track fingers, make unicorns real originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720KinectKinect 2Kinect for WindowsKinect RumorKinect TwoKinect2KinectForWindowsKinectRumorKinectTwoLoopMicrosoftMicrosoft KinectMicrosoftKinectNew XboxNewXboxRumor MillRumorMillRumorsSpeculationXboxXbox 360Xbox 720Xbox LoopXbox360Xbox720XboxLoopMon, 28 Nov 2011 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Bing brings the holiday gold, offers free Xbox Live preview for Thanksgiving weekend]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/bing-brings-the-holiday-gold-offers-free-xbox-live-preview-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/bing-brings-the-holiday-gold-offers-free-xbox-live-preview-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/bing-brings-the-holiday-gold-offers-free-xbox-live-preview-for/#comments Need something to do while your loved ones slave over hot stoves and turkey platters? Microsoft and Bing have got your back, offering gamers another free Xbox Live Gold weekend to help you frag your way through the holiday. Of course, if you're feeling too sedentary to twitch your thumbs, you can always veg out with your Netflix queue or use the console's ESPN app to get your traditional Thanksgiving sports fix. Either way, you're golden until the 27th -- after that, you'll need to pony up and subscribe. Don't have an Xbox 360, you say? We hear there are some deals floating around that might help you fix that.

Bing brings the holiday gold, offers free Xbox Live preview for Thanksgiving weekend originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 20:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bingESPNESPN3freefree xbox weekendFreeXboxWeekendMicrosoftMicrosoft Xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360minipostNetflixNetflix IncthanksgivingXboxxbox 360Xbox Livexbox live goldxbox live gold previewxbox live gold weekendXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveGoldXboxLiveGoldPreviewXboxLiveGoldWeekendThu, 24 Nov 2011 20:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanatec Forza Motorsport CSR wheel and Elite pedals review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/edit-fanatec-forza-motorsort-csr-wheel-and-elite-pedals-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/edit-fanatec-forza-motorsort-csr-wheel-and-elite-pedals-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/24/edit-fanatec-forza-motorsort-csr-wheel-and-elite-pedals-review/#comments
It's amazing to realize that about two years ago Fanatec's first Xbox 360 racing wheel, the Forza 3 Porsche 911 Turbo Wheel, hit the scene. Although it turned out to be a mixed bag, Fanatec pleasantly surprised us with its Porsche GT2 and Clubsport Pedals in January of this year -- despite a roaring fan and shaky shifter mounts. Now, we're saying hello to a new trio of racing sim-related goods intended for Forza Motorsport 4 on Xbox 360: the $249.95 Forza Motorsport CSR Wheel, $59.95 shifter set, and $149.95 CSR Elite Pedals.

If you'll recall, it was back in March that we checked some of this kit out, and now with Forza 4 here, we hooked this mashup of gear up with our Playseat Evolution for a massive amount of virtual spins. So, did this combination help speed past the checkerboard with a respectable feel? Shift past the break find out in our full review.

Gallery: Fanatec Forza Motorsport CSR Wheel and Elite Pedals review

Continue reading Fanatec Forza Motorsport CSR wheel and Elite pedals review

Fanatec Forza Motorsport CSR wheel and Elite pedals review originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscsrcsr elitecsr elite pedalscsr racing wheelcsr shifter setCsrEliteCsrElitePedalsCsrRacingWheelCsrShifterSetfanatecfanatec csrfanatec csr wheelFanatec Forza Motorsport CSR wheelFanatecCsrFanatecCsrWheelFanatecForzaMotorsportCsrWheelforzaforza 4Forza4pedalsPeripheralracetrackracingreviewshiftersimulationsteeringsteering wheelSteeringWheelVideoGamevirtual racingVirtualRacingwheelxboxxbox 360Xbox360Thu, 24 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft acquires VideoSurf, promises to bring better video search and discovery to Xbox Live]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/microsoft-acquires-videosurf-promises-to-bring-better-video-sea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/microsoft-acquires-videosurf-promises-to-bring-better-video-sea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/microsoft-acquires-videosurf-promises-to-bring-better-video-sea/#comments Terms of the deal aren't being disclosed, but Microsoft announced today that it has acquired the content analytics firm VideoSurf, and it's being crystal clear about where it will be putting it to use: Xbox Live. VideoSurf, for those not familiar, is a company that specializes in computer vision technology, which lets it "tag" individual frames of videos in real time and deliver better search and discovery services. Earlier this year, it released an Android application that basically amounts to Shazam for video. As for its plans for Xbox Live, Microsoft says that it will integrate the technology across the platform "over time," and that it will "augment the Xbox 360 ecosystem and evolve search and discovery of entertainment content on Xbox Live." The official press release is after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft acquires VideoSurf, promises to bring better video search and discovery to Xbox Live

Microsoft acquires VideoSurf, promises to bring better video search and discovery to Xbox Live originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>computer visionComputerVisiondiscoveryhdpostcrosssearchvideovideo discoveryvideo recognitionVideoDiscoveryVideoRecognitionvideosurfxboxxbox liveXboxLiveTue, 22 Nov 2011 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/#comments
Earlier this month, Microsoft announced that its Xbox 360 dashboard would be getting an upgrade "in the coming days." Today, the company has clarified that statement, declaring that the revamped interface will launch on December 6th. As we've previously noted, the update promises to bring deeper Kinect integration (including sharper voice recognition capabilities), Facebook sharing mechanisms, and a cleaner interface. Redmond also says that the fall cleanup will introduce "a wealth of new content," including live TV, music and movies, available for streaming. For now, the dashboard is still in beta, though it certainly won't be long before the masses get their hands on it.

Update: Read Microsoft's e-mailed announcement in full, after the break.

Continue reading Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms

Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateentertainmentfacebookgamegamerinterfaceKinectmicrosoftmoviesMSFTmusicsharingstreamingTVUIuser interfaceUserInterfacexboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboardXbox360Xbox360DashboardTue, 22 Nov 2011 03:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Turn your Kinect hack into a startup with Microsoft's Accelerator program]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/turn-your-kinect-hack-into-a-startup-with-microsofts-accelerato/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/turn-your-kinect-hack-into-a-startup-with-microsofts-accelerato/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/20/turn-your-kinect-hack-into-a-startup-with-microsofts-accelerato/#comments Wanna turn your Kinect hack into, um, money? Microsoft can help you out, now that it's teamed up with TechStars to launch the Kinect Accelerator -- a program designed to turn Kinect-based ideas into real world startups. To participate, innovators must first apply to the Accelerator before the January 25th deadline. Ten applicants will then be accepted to a three-month incubation program, and rewarded with $20,000 in seed money. To participate, however, you'd have to relocate to Seattle for the duration of the program, scheduled to kick off this Spring. Plus, if you manage to bring your company to market, you'll have to set aside a six percent common stock stake for TechStars, which is both funding and spearheading the initiative. For more details on how to apply, hit up the source link below.

Turn your Kinect hack into a startup with Microsoft's Accelerator program originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Nov 2011 05:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdevelopmententrepreneurfundingideaindustryinitiativeinnovationkinectkinect acceleratorkinect hackKinectAcceleratorKinectHackmicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectmoneyMSMSFTprogramseed moneySeedMoneystartupTechStarswindowsxboxSun, 20 Nov 2011 05:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Xbox 360 successor rumored to arrive in 2012, make an appearance at CES?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/16/microsoft-xbox-360-successor-rumored-to-arrive-in-2012-make-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/16/microsoft-xbox-360-successor-rumored-to-arrive-in-2012-make-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/16/microsoft-xbox-360-successor-rumored-to-arrive-in-2012-make-an/#commentsGo get the salt... it's Xbox rumor time! Today, we're hearing that Microsoft's Xbox 360 successor may be hitting stores in late 2012, according to Edge, with an initial announcement possibly to come at CES. Next December would be a couple years shy of the 10-year time frame Microsoft reps have quoted for the 360's life cycle in the past, and we haven't heard much about this rumored CES announcement until now, so we're not inclined to take either of these reports too seriously. Ubisoft may have Microsoft-supplied dev kits, according to Edge, so perhaps there is some truth to the rumors. We don't have long to wait until that massive consumer electronics gathering in Vegas at this point, though, so it's only a matter of time before the rumor mills begin shifting their launch expectations to 2013.

Microsoft Xbox 360 successor rumored to arrive in 2012, make an appearance at CES? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces 2012ces2012consoleconsolesgamegame consolegame consolesGameConsoleGameConsolesgaminggaming consolegaming consolesGamingConsoleGamingConsolesmicrosoftmicrosoft xboxMicrosoft Xbox 360MicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360minipostrumorrumorsxboxxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Xbox turns X years old today, celebrates decade of console prowess]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/microsoft-xbox-turns-x-years-old-today-celebrates-decade-of-con/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/microsoft-xbox-turns-x-years-old-today-celebrates-decade-of-con/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/microsoft-xbox-turns-x-years-old-today-celebrates-decade-of-con/#comments One decade ago today, on November 15, 2001, the Xbox gaming console was born, hitting stores across North America on the same day. That Pentium III-based black box found its way into tens of millions of living rooms around the world, and wasn't discontinued until after its successor was announced in 2005. Now, halfway through its lifecycle, the Xbox 360 is still selling strong -- perhaps spurred by the company's release of Kinect in 2010 -- with about four years left to go before Microsoft is expected to unleash its nex-gen console. An updated system may be inevitable, but regardless of what's inside, we wouldn't be surprised to see Microsoft's blockbuster game machine don its familiar Xbox handle for decennia to come.

Gallery: Microsoft Xbox 10-year anniversary

Microsoft Xbox turns X years old today, celebrates decade of console prowess originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsole warsconsolesConsoleWarsgamegame consolegame consolesgame systemGameConsoleGameConsolesgamesGameSystemgaminggaming consolegaming systemGamingConsoleGamingSystemhistorymicrosoftnpdPlaystation3project natalProjectNatalps3salesSalesFiguresshane kimShaneKimsony ps3SonyPs3xboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: gaming]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-2011-gaming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-2011-gaming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-2011-gaming/#commentsWelcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! We're well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties surrounding the seasonal shopping experience, so we're here to help you sort out this year's tech treasures. Below is today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season.

Ah, the holiday season. That special time of year when we give our loved ones the new hotness of the video game world, and then promptly exploit their over-excited reactions to propel them into unwanted YouTube fame. Even if your familial relations don't have the stuff to become this generation's "N64 kid," you can still kick a few rad toys their way just for the love of it. And if you're having trouble finding the perfect gift for the gamer in your life, we're here to help. Head past the break to take a peek at Engadget's 2011 Holiday Gift Guide for video games. Not finding what you're looking for? Skip on back to our 2011 Back to School Guide for bonus gift ideas.

Continue reading Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: gaming

Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: gaming originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D televisionBlu-rayChristmas and holiday seasonDSDS LiteDsLiteGamecube-free WiiGamecube-freeWiiGameStopgamingHGGHGG 2011Hgg2011holiday gift guideholiday gift guide 2011HolidayGiftGuideHolidayGiftGuide2011Little DeviantsLittleDeviantsMario KartMotoStorm: ApocalypseMotostorm:ApocalypseNintendoNintendo 3DSNintendo DS LiteNintendo WiiNintendo3dsNintendoDsLiteNintendoWiiPlayStationPlayStation 3D displayPlayStation VitaPlayStation Vita First Edition BundlePlaystation3dDisplayPlaystationVitaPlaystationVitaFirstEditionBundleSci/TechSkylandersSonySony PlayStation 3SonyPlaystation3The Legend of ZeldaThe Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of TimeWiiXboxXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox360Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox.com upgrade is live with new Beacons and easy opt-out Auto Renewal]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/xbox-com-upgrade-is-live-with-new-beacons-and-easy-opt-out-auto/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/xbox-com-upgrade-is-live-with-new-beacons-and-easy-opt-out-auto/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/xbox-com-upgrade-is-live-with-new-beacons-and-easy-opt-out-auto/#comments The newly refreshed Xbox.com is now live for one and all, offering its new Social area and beacons that were detailed previously. Of course, if you're averse to commitment (or just like buying your Xbox Live subscription in the form of cards only when they're on sale) the biggest new addition may be what your friends at Joystiq noticed: a newly streamlined process to disable your subscription's yearly auto-renewal. It's a small tweak, but if it means not feeling the sucker punch of a surprise $59 charge on your credit card then that may be enough for some. Now, about that fall dashboard update...

Xbox.com upgrade is live with new Beacons and easy opt-out Auto Renewal originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto renewAutoRenewbeaconsmetro uiMetroUimicrosoftminipostsocialxboxxbox 60xbox.comXbox60Thu, 10 Nov 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tritton's $50 Trigger headset now shipping, lets budget-minded FPS players keep their wallets fat]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/trittons-50-trigger-headset-now-shipping-lets-budget-minded-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/trittons-50-trigger-headset-now-shipping-lets-budget-minded-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/trittons-50-trigger-headset-now-shipping-lets-budget-minded-f/#comments It's been about a month since MadCatz began shipping the first of its four Tritton and Xbox 360 co-branded headsets (the $80 Devastator), and today the company's announced that its $50 Trigger variant is now officially traversing mail routes. At a glance, it's nearly identical to the Devastator, offering stereo sound via a wired connection, but that 30 dollar price decrease comes with a trimmed-down feature set -- there's no Selective Voice Monitoring functionality, it packs smaller 40mm drivers (from 50mm), its in-line remote packs volume rollers in place of buttons and there's no mention of PMP-compatibility. Basically, the Trigger's apparently aimed squarely at uping your in-game audio without breaking the bank -- not to mention that it's especially tempting if you've just splurged on the latest Modern Warfare and Battlefield titles. As usual, you'll find more info at the source link below and the full press release after the break.

Continue reading Tritton's $50 Trigger headset now shipping, lets budget-minded FPS players keep their wallets fat

Tritton's $50 Trigger headset now shipping, lets budget-minded FPS players keep their wallets fat originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40mmDriversaudiogaminggaming headsetGamingHeadsetheadphonesheadsetmadcatzmicrosoftminipostnow shippingNowShippingofficial headsetOfficialHeadsetofficially licensedOfficiallyLicensedshippingstereotriggertrittontritton triggertritton usaTrittonTriggerTrittonUsaxboxxbox 360Xbox360Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox.com upgrade will add new Social features, support for Xbox Live Beacons]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/xbox-com-upgrade-will-add-new-social-features-support-for-xbox/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/xbox-com-upgrade-will-add-new-social-features-support-for-xbox/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/xbox-com-upgrade-will-add-new-social-features-support-for-xbox/#comments The Xbox 360 hasn't received its new coat of paint for the fall yet, but Microsoft just announced Xbox.com will be seeing similar changes in "the coming days." The old "My Xbox" section is getting the boot in favor of a "Social" area that lets you keep track of your XBL friends, thanks to some of the new features enabled by the upcoming dashboard update. Before the dash update is released, Xbox.com users can check out Beacons that let them mark which games they're willing to play, or check out a friends activity page that resembles recent additions to Facebook and Twitter by informing you what friends are up to in real-time. Also revamped is the video section that lets users buy or rent movies and TV shows for viewing on their console, Windows Phone or Zune. Hit the source link for a few more screens of its Metro UI-fashioned new face and additional details, we'll let you know when it all goes live.

Xbox.com upgrade will add new Social features, support for Xbox Live Beacons originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beaconsconsoleDashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdate2011friendsmetro uiMetroUimicrosoftsocialvideo gamesVideoGameswebsitexboxxbox 360xbox livexbox.comXbox360XboxLiveWed, 09 Nov 2011 07:22:00 EST