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[PSA: Windows Phone Marketplace now requires Windows Phone 7.5]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/psa-windows-phone-marketplace-now-requires-windows-phone-7-5/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/psa-windows-phone-marketplace-now-requires-windows-phone-7-5/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/psa-windows-phone-marketplace-now-requires-windows-phone-7-5/#comments Image

Microsoft warned us last month that it would be snipping legacy OS support in Windows Phone Marketplace within a few weeks, and it just made good on that heads-up. As of now, you'll need at least a Windows Phone 7.5 device to shop for, review and update apps, no matter how much you want that fix for Ilo Milo. The company still argues that the cutoff is needed to improve speed and security in the Marketplace as well as lay a foundation for a better Windows Phone future. Given that virtually every handset on the market can get 7.5 today, if it doesn't already ship with 7.5 preloaded, you have every good reason to grab the update through Microsoft's desktop apps and stay in the Marketplace downloading parade.

PSA: Windows Phone Marketplace now requires Windows Phone 7.5 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 20:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappscellphonecellphonesmangomicrosoftmicrosoft windows phonemicrosoft windows phone 7.5MicrosoftWindowsPhoneMicrosoftWindowsPhone7.5mobilepostcrosssmartphonesmartphonesupdateupgradewindows phonewindows phone 7 connectorwindows phone 7 connector for macwindows phone 7.5windows phone marketplaceWindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7.5WindowsPhone7ConnectorWindowsPhone7ConnectorForMacWindowsPhoneMarketplacezuneTue, 22 May 2012 20:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-Microsoftie Robbie Bach: I wouldn't have made Zune MP3 players, we were just 'chasing Apple']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/robbie-bach-would-not-have-made-zune/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/robbie-bach-would-not-have-made-zune/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/robbie-bach-would-not-have-made-zune/#comments Robbie Bach

It took some time after Robbie Bach left Microsoft for the Zune device line to wind to a close, but that hasn't stopped the former music (and gaming) executive from suggesting that it should have been ramped down much, much sooner. While discussing the best way to get a startup company humming at a Northwest Entrepreneur Network event, Bach mentioned his view that Microsoft should never have started down the MP3 player path to start with and should have instead gone service-only. The Zune was a too-little-too-late reaction to the iPod, according to him, and the option to squirt your songs apparently wasn't enough of a lure:

"We just weren't brave enough, honestly, and we ended up chasing Apple with a product that actually wasn't a bad product, but it was still a chasing product, and there wasn't a reason for somebody to say, oh, I have to go out and get that thing."

We've had some affection for the Zune in the past, but there's no denying that it faced an uphill battle from the start. Sales leveled off almost immediately, and the damage was primarily to smaller competitors like Creative and SanDisk that couldn't throw their weight around the way Microsoft did.

Ex-Microsoftie Robbie Bach: I wouldn't have made Zune MP3 players, we were just 'chasing Apple' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 May 2012 21:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple iPodAppleIpodiPodMicrosoftMicrosoft ZuneMicrosoftZunemp3 playerMP3 playersMp3PlayerMp3Playersportable audioPortableAudiorobbie bachRobbieBachrobert bachRobertBachzuneMon, 14 May 2012 21:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft cuts pre-Mango holdouts, Zune desktop software off from WP7 app purchases]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/microsoft-cuts-pre-mango-holdouts-zune-desktop-software-off-fro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/microsoft-cuts-pre-mango-holdouts-zune-desktop-software-off-fro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/microsoft-cuts-pre-mango-holdouts-zune-desktop-software-off-fro/#comments Microsoft cuts pre-Mango holdouts, Zune desktop software off from WP7 app purchases

Microsoft's Windows Phone team is making a few changes to how users are able to acquire apps on their devices but luckily, they probably won't affect most of you. Starting today, users can no longer get apps from the Zune desktop software (the app store will remain for the Zune HD, as shown above), so they'll need to browse via the website or directly on their phones, which Microsoft says the majority of users were already doing. The other change is that in the next few weeks, any users who have not upgraded their handsets to Windows Phone 7.5 Mango will no longer be able to download, update or review apps. Since the update is available for all Windows Phones (Android, we're mostly talking about you) this shouldn't be too much of a problem, and any laggards will regain their access after upgrading.

On a final note, the developer blog mentions the software needed for hardware partners to create phones for Bahrain, Israel, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, UAE and Vietnam and that there will be more news on these storefronts "in the weeks ahead." With these moves, the squad has culled any reason to open a heavy memory hungry desktop program just to install some new apps from a PC (iTunes, we're completely talking about you) and devs can write off supporting users still running on old platforms guilt-free. All that in one day? We bet they didn't even have to use their AK -- those old zune:// links however, will be missed.

Microsoft cuts pre-Mango holdouts, Zune desktop software off from WP7 app purchases originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.5appsdevelopersmangomarketsmicrosoftmobilepostcrosswindows phonewindows phone 7windows phone 7.5WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7WindowsPhone7.5wp7zunezune desktopZuneDesktopTue, 24 Apr 2012 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia confirms Lumia 710, 800 to be knighted with mobile hotspot 'soon']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/17/nokia-mobile-hotspot-coming-to-Lumia-710-800/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/17/nokia-mobile-hotspot-coming-to-Lumia-710-800/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/17/nokia-mobile-hotspot-coming-to-Lumia-710-800/#comments Nokia devering mobile hotspot to Lumia 710, 800 'soon' via Zune

If you've pored over the specs of Nokia's Lumia 710 and 800 handsets during the last few months, you've likely noticed the duo's lack of mobile hotspot functionally. Of course, the Finnish phone maker didn't completely abandoned the feature in Windows Phone, as the ability to turn your device into a portable access point will ship with its flagship Lumia 900 and the recently announced 610 at launch. Nokia admitted that the feature would be coming to the 800 months ago, and now Elop & Company have announced that the 710 is also on the shortlist. A recent Q&A post on its Connects blog explained that software updates will be "coming soon" -- by way of Zune update -- to remedy the discrepancy between the old and new. No word on what Nokia's definition of "soon" is, but you can find all the available details at the source link below.

Nokia confirms Lumia 710, 800 to be knighted with mobile hotspot 'soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>610710800900HotspotLumiaLumia 610Lumia 710Lumia 800Lumia 900Lumia610Lumia710Lumia800Lumia900mangoMicrosoftMobilemobile hotspotMobileHotspotmobilepostminiNokiaPhonetethertetheringupdateWindowsWindows Phonewindows phone 7.5WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7.5WPwp7.5ZuneSat, 17 Mar 2012 18:01:00 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[Nokia rolls out first update for Lumia 800, offers up new features for web-based 3D Maps on the side (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/nokia-rolls-out-first-update-for-lumia-800-offers-up-new-featur/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/nokia-rolls-out-first-update-for-lumia-800-offers-up-new-featur/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/nokia-rolls-out-first-update-for-lumia-800-offers-up-new-featur/#comments Nokia is pretty busy at the moment. Alongside clandestine events with T-Mobile, the first update for the Lumia 800 has now begun to roll out. As is the case with most WinPho upgrades, you'll have to plug the polycarbonate slab into Zune to pull down several new performance enhancements and features. These will include charging and audio quality improvements, as well as improved display switching in bright light. Don't panic if you're unable to grab the update immediately; the phone manufacturer told us that it will be gradually rolled out across all of the initial launch countries over the next two weeks.

But Nokia didn't stop there -- it has also added more functionality to its impressive -- and free -- web-based maps. Its 3D Maps, available in 25 cities, have been given new navigation functions, sharing and search options. You'll have to install a browser plugin to get your hit of pop-up cartography, but Google Earth addicts should be suitably impressed. Click the source below to judge for yourself, or hold on after the break for a quick intro video.

Continue reading Nokia rolls out first update for Lumia 800, offers up new features for web-based 3D Maps on the side (video)

Nokia rolls out first update for Lumia 800, offers up new features for web-based 3D Maps on the side (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d maps3dMapslumia 800Lumia800mapsmobilepostcrossnokianokia 3d mapsnokia lumia 800Nokia MapsNokia3dMapsNokiaLumia800NokiaMapsupdatevideowindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7ZuneThu, 08 Dec 2011 07:29:00 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 updateDashboardUpdateengadget awardsengadget awards 2011EngadgetAwardsEngadgetAwards2011Facebookfall 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[Developer teases voice control of Zune, using PC and Windows Phone (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/developer-teases-voice-control-of-zune-using-pc-and-windows-pho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/developer-teases-voice-control-of-zune-using-pc-and-windows-pho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/developer-teases-voice-control-of-zune-using-pc-and-windows-pho/#comments The great thinkers of the world have long known a secret that we're now happy to disclose: it's not necessity that's the mother invention, but rather laziness. Fortunately, expending a great deal of effort on a project -- simply to perform a task effortlessly -- sometimes brings very cool results. A concept app known as ZuneVoice easily passes muster in this realm, which is used to control Zune software on the PC with only a standard microphone and spoken commands. As you can see in the demo video, its creator, keyboardp, is able to play individual songs, issue commands such a "pause" or "next song", and even display full-screen music videos from YouTube. The developer even crafted an app for his Lumia 800 known as PhoneZune, which serves as a remote control for times when he's away from the box. Neither application is yet publicly available, though feedback is welcome. Next, we're told to expect Kinect integration. Perhaps one day, these gems will see the light of day.

Continue reading Developer teases voice control of Zune, using PC and Windows Phone (video)

Developer teases voice control of Zune, using PC and Windows Phone (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappshackhackskeyboardpkinectlumia 800Lumia800microsoftmobilepostcrossmusicnokiapcphonezunespeech recognitionSpeechRecognitionvideovoicevoice controlvoice recognitionVoiceControlVoiceRecognitionwindowswindows phoneWindowsPhoneyoutubezunezunevoiceTue, 29 Nov 2011 19:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune Music Pass comes to the Land Down Under, you'll soon hear the thunder]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/zune-music-pass-comes-to-the-land-down-under-youll-soon-hear-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/zune-music-pass-comes-to-the-land-down-under-youll-soon-hear-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/15/zune-music-pass-comes-to-the-land-down-under-youll-soon-hear-t/#comments Yes, we're talking about Australia. Microsoft's Zune Music Pass is now available from coast to coast for 11.99 AUD (about $12.14) per month or 119.90 AUD (about $121.38) for a full year, with 14-day trials available for a cool 0.00 AUD. You'll have access to 11 million tracks from your Windows Phone, desktop Zune client or the web -- with Xbox 360 support on the way. So let the beer flow, but don't chunder.

Zune Music Pass comes to the Land Down Under, you'll soon hear the thunder originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 17:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftminipostmobilepostcrosswindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7wp7zunezune marketplacezune music passzune passZuneMarketplaceZuneMusicPassZunePassTue, 15 Nov 2011 17:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget: best streaming music solution?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/ask-engadget-best-streaming-music-solution/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/ask-engadget-best-streaming-music-solution/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/ask-engadget-best-streaming-music-solution/#comments We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Katie, who is totally down with the stream. The radio stream. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"Rdio, Spotify, Pandora, Rhapsody -- there are way too many streaming music services out there begging for my money. Which is the one I should spring for? I live in the US, but would love for whatever I choose to work when I travel internationally, if that's possible. Trying to keep it up under $10 per month, and looking for a large library and nice mobile compatibility. Thanks!"

So, streamers -- what's your go-to service? Tried a few of 'em? Let us know which you prefer, and why, down in comments below.

Ask Engadget: best streaming music solution? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askAsk EngadgetAskEngadgetaudioitunesmusicnapsterpandorardiorhapsodyspotifystreamstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicsubscriptionzunezune passZunePassSat, 29 Oct 2011 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's Andy Lees shows off Titan, Focus S, and Focus Flash]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/microsofts-andy-lees-shows-off-titan-focus-s-and-focus-flash/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/microsofts-andy-lees-shows-off-titan-focus-s-and-focus-flash/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/microsofts-andy-lees-shows-off-titan-focus-s-and-focus-flash/#comments Straight out of AsiaD, we've got our first look at Mango's next three handsets: the HTC Titan, the Samsung Focus S (pictured above), and the Samsung Focus Flash. Well, not strictly first -- the Focus S has slipped out into the wild before, and we've already clashed with the Titan and the Radar Lees is showing off, but we're still happy to get a proper look at Sammy's new stars. The Focus siblings both outpace their older brother with matching 1.4GHz processors, but split the difference in screen size, with the Focus S brandishing a larger 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, and the Flash stepping down to a 3.7-inch plus-free Super AMOLED. Cameras? They've got 'em, an 8 megapixel peeper clings to the back of the Focus S, while the Flash retains its predecessor's 5 megapixel cam -- both slabs lay a happy claim to front-facing cameras. Further details are scarce -- we know that the Focus S measures in 8.55 millimeters at its thinnest point and promises "4G" speeds when it lands later this year, but when that might actually be is still a mystery. We'll let you know when we hear something. Check out the galleries below for a better look.

Gallery: Samsung Focus S and HTC Radar shown off by Andy Lees


Gallery: Samsung Focus S and Samsung Focus Flash for AT&T

Microsoft's Andy Lees shows off Titan, Focus S, and Focus Flash originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 23:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all things dAllThingsDAsiaDcell phonesCellPhoneshandsetsHTC TitanHtcTitanmangomicrosoftmicrosoft windowsMicrosoftWindowsmobilemobilepostcrossSamsung Focus FlashSamsung Focus SSamsungFocusFlashSamsungFocusSvideowindows phonewindows phone 7windows phone 7.5WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7WindowsPhone7.5xboxxbox liveXboxLivezuneWed, 19 Oct 2011 23:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune is dead, long live Zune]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/zune-is-dead-long-live-zune/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/zune-is-dead-long-live-zune/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/zune-is-dead-long-live-zune/#comments Like Zune's own Business Development Manager once said, all consumer electronics products have a lifespan, and today the (not so long) lineage of dedicated Zune hardware expires not with a roar, but with a promise to honor its warranties. Tucked away in the inner chambers of the Zune support site lies a page spelling out Microsoft's final words on the device, "Windows Phone will be the focus of our mobile music and video strategy," it says, "we will no longer be producing Zune players." The Zune HD is survived by the Zune music service, which will continue to function with straggling standalone media players, as well as the Windows desktop, Windows Phone and Xbox platforms.

Zune is dead, long live Zune originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deaddiscontinuedWindows PhoneWindowsPhonezunezune 30zune hdZune MarketplaceZune musiczune music servicezune passZune phoneZune playerZune30ZuneHdZuneMarketplaceZuneMusicZuneMusicServiceZunePassZunePhoneZunePlayerMon, 03 Oct 2011 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Fall Dashboard update video leaks, tours Metro in silence]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update-video-leaks-tours-metro-in-silen/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update-video-leaks-tours-metro-in-silen/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update-video-leaks-tours-metro-in-silen/#comments

Last month, we sat down with Microsoft for a quick look at the Xbox's upcoming Dashboard update -- it was sleek, searchable, and extremely camera shy. A quick trip to Europe seems to have cured it of its bashful ways, however, and the budding update can now be seen in a slightly blurry piece of French cinema. This leaked video shows a Dashboard with a smidge more polish than the demo we saw in September, and silently plods on without so much as a bleep or bloop. Our mute host briefly peeks at the Xbox Live Marketplace, casually glances at the Bing search page and scrolls leisurely through the new Dash's very Metro menu. The whole shebang is en français, of course, and the update's snappy voice-control gimmick is sadly absent. Sure, there's not a lot of depth here, but if you want a glimpse of what's coming when the update drops later this Fall, it's definitely worth a look.

[Thanks, John]

Xbox 360 Fall Dashboard update video leaks, tours Metro in silence originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 02:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game consolesGameConsolesgamingMetroMicrosoftsoftwarevideovideo gamesVideoGamesxboxxbox 360xbox dashboardxbox livexbox live dashboardxbox live dashboard updateXbox-360Xbox360XboxDashboardXboxLiveXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdateZuneMon, 03 Oct 2011 02:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/microsoft-announces-new-10-zune-music-pass-expands-service-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/microsoft-announces-new-10-zune-music-pass-expands-service-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/microsoft-announces-new-10-zune-music-pass-expands-service-to/#comments It may not enjoy quite the same level of buzz that the likes of Spotify, Rdio and MOG have been basking in lately, but Microsoft's Zune service is still kicking, and the company's now working to make it a bit more appealing and more widely available. For folks in the US, the big change today is a new $10 per month Zune Music Pass, which is identical to the existing $15 service with the notable exception that you no longer get to keep ten free MP3s each month (that $15 option remains available to existing subscribers, though). Elsewhere, Microsoft has also now finally brought the Zune Marketplace and Zune Pass to Canada -- it opens up on October 3rd, with the Zune Pass running the same $10/month (or $100 for a year of service).

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadamicrosoftzunezune marketplacezune music passzune passZuneMarketplaceZuneMusicPassZunePassThu, 29 Sep 2011 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows Phone 7.5 Mango review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/windows-phone-7-5-mango-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/windows-phone-7-5-mango-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/windows-phone-7-5-mango-review/#comments
Let's face it: Windows Phone, as we know it, has an enormous amount of potential, but it's a first-generation operating system. For the first eleven months of its existence, it's lacked many of the common features we've come to enjoy (and take for granted) on Android and iOS, but then again, even those platforms have taken their turn getting the major wrinkles ironed out. So it comes as no surprise that Microsoft's mobile darling -- the innovative rebirth of a weak and faltering Windows Mobile platform that was quickly falling into obscurity -- would need to go through a similar process.

It's finally time for Steve Ballmer & Co. to unleash its major annual update (not counting NoDo here), codenamed Mango, to a litany of devices both old and new. Also known as Windows Phone 7.5, the latest build delivers an onslaught of features -- no less than 500, according to Microsoft -- many of them we've been missing dearly. Three months ago we were given the opportunity to preview the new revamp and ogle over its smattering of new capabilities (see the full list of features here), and it's only proper for us to offer a follow-up with the update's final build. So how does the completely polished version hold up against the mobile juggernauts, not to mention its own first-gen offering? Follow us below to get the full scoop.

Continue reading Windows Phone 7.5 Mango review

Windows Phone 7.5 Mango review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfirmware updateFirmwareUpdateintegrationmangomarketplacemetrometro UIMetroUimicrosoftmobilepostcrossmultitaskmultitaskingpeople hubPeopleHubreviewsocial networkSocialNetworksoftware updateSoftwareUpdatetourtwitterupdatevideowindows phonewindows phone mangoWindowsPhoneWindowsPhoneMangowp7wp7.5zuneTue, 27 Sep 2011 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[First Nokia app appears on Windows Phone store, suggests you buy more apps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/26/first-nokia-app-appears-on-windows-phone-store-suggests-you-buy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/26/first-nokia-app-appears-on-windows-phone-store-suggests-you-buy/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/26/first-nokia-app-appears-on-windows-phone-store-suggests-you-buy/#comments

Nokia is still hammering out the hardware for its premier Windows Phone, but here's a taste of what the beleaguered phone giant will be adding in the way of exclusive apps. Posted on the Zune marketplace, Top Apps turned up a few days ago and we managed to get a screen grab in case it disappears. It appears to be Nokia's "fun and quick" interpretation of a curated app portal, all pretty similar to the stock Windows Phone offering. Looks like we'll have to wait just a little longer to see exactly how much creative freedom Nokia manages to wring from Microsoft's (previously stringent) Windows Phone UI.

First Nokia app appears on Windows Phone store, suggests you buy more apps originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp portalapp storeAppPortalappsAppStoreMicrosoftmobilemobilepostcrossmobilepostminiNokiasmartphonesmartphonesTop appsTopAppsWindows Phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7WP7Zunezune appzune app marketplaceZuneAppZuneAppMarketplaceMon, 26 Sep 2011 09:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live Fall 2011 Dashboard update preview: Bing search, voice control, and a Metro overhaul]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/xbox-live-fall-2011-dashboard-update-preview-bing-search-voice/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/xbox-live-fall-2011-dashboard-update-preview-bing-search-voice/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/xbox-live-fall-2011-dashboard-update-preview-bing-search-voice/#comments Autumn is fast approaching -- and you know what that means: it's round about time for an Xbox Dashboard update. Sure, we got a peek of Microsoft's upcoming harvest back at E3, but the good folks from Redmond invited us to take a closer look at what they're calling the "most significant update to the Dashboard since NXE." Senior project Manager Terry Ferrell was on-site to walk us through an early engineering beta and show us how an updated Metro UI, Bing search and deeper Kinect integration is going to change the way folks manage their entertainment content.

Continue reading Xbox Live Fall 2011 Dashboard update preview: Bing search, voice control, and a Metro overhaul

Filed under:

Xbox Live Fall 2011 Dashboard update preview: Bing search, voice control, and a Metro overhaul originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bingbing searchBingSearchdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateFacebookfall dashboard updatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdateFallDashboardUpdate2011gaminghdpostcrossimpressionskinectMetroMetro UIMetroUiMicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoftKinectMinority ReportnatalpreviewStar Trekvideo gamesVideoGamesvoicevoice controlvoice controlledvoice recognitionVoiceControlVoiceControlledVoiceRecognitionWindows PhoneWindowsPhonexboxxbox 360xbox dashboardxbox livexbox live dashboardxbox live dashboard updateXbox-360Xbox360XboxDashboardXboxLiveXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdateZuneFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LauncherPro dev's skinnable UberMusic player finally hits the Android Market]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/29/launcherpro-devs-skinnable-ubermusic-player-finally-hits-the-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/29/launcherpro-devs-skinnable-ubermusic-player-finally-hits-the-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/29/launcherpro-devs-skinnable-ubermusic-player-finally-hits-the-an/#comments We were thoroughly infatuated with LauncherPro developer Federico Carnale's then-unnamed music app the first time we saw it in beta, bringing Metro UI styled playback to our Android lifestyles. Now UberMusic v1.0 is available on the Android Market, flexing its customizable skills for the princely sum of $3.49. Don't think this is just some ripoff however, while one of the skins (that can also be found on the Market) is a Zune lookalike, third parties can make it look however they might like, including the widgets. If you missed our demo the first time around you can check out the video after the break to see why we're so excited, or hit the source link to purchase now. Allergic to spending money on apps? Don't give up all hope, as the creator tweets an ad-supported free version may be on the way as well.

Continue reading LauncherPro dev's skinnable UberMusic player finally hits the Android Market

LauncherPro dev's skinnable UberMusic player finally hits the Android Market originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketappcustomizablefederico carnalesFedericoCarnalesgooglelauncherprometro uiMetroUimp3musicmusic playerMusicPlayerskinnableuber musicUberMusicvideowp7zuneFri, 29 Jul 2011 19:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune Originals shut down, humans revert to being average and uncreative]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/zune-originals-shut-down-humans-revert-to-being-average-and-unc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/zune-originals-shut-down-humans-revert-to-being-average-and-unc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/zune-originals-shut-down-humans-revert-to-being-average-and-unc/#comments Hard to believe that Microsoft's been offering consumers the ability to customize their Zune purchases for the better part of four years now, but as they say, all unbelievable things must one day face reality. Er, something to that effect. Without so much as a heads-up, the designers in Redmond have apparently decided to shutter the Zune Originals storefront. As of this weekend, no new orders for highly personalized Zunes are being taken, with interested Earthlings encouraged to throw creativity to the wind and opt for a mass produced alternative within Best Buy or Walmart. So, you're looking at two tidbits of import: if you placed your Originals order at 5PM PT on July 1st, you likely have quite the coveted device headed your way, and if you ever needed evidence that Microsoft was making WP7 its next Zune, well... you're welcome.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Zune Originals shut down, humans revert to being average and uncreative originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 07:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deaddesigndiykillkilledmicrosoftshut downShutDownzunezune hdzune originalsZuneHdZuneOriginalsMon, 04 Jul 2011 07:47:00 EST<![CDATA[The Engadget app for Windows Phone is here]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/the-engadget-app-for-windows-phone-is-here/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/the-engadget-app-for-windows-phone-is-here/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/the-engadget-app-for-windows-phone-is-here/#comments The Engadget app for Windows Phone is here 25,000 apps? Make it 25,001. The Engadget app for Windows Phone is here. Finally. Now your HD7 or Surround or Trophy or Omnia can get some native news in a format that's so Metro it doesn't even have a driver's license. We know that it took awhile, but we needed it to be right, and now it is. On the app you can get all the posts from the main site as well as Mobile and HD, plus podcasts, videos, and all the content we pour our hearts in to every day, pushed right to your palm. If you have a Windows Phone device that can handle QR codes, there's an image waiting for you after the break. Or, you're welcome to click on the source link below, which should open the Zune app and make some magic happen. No Zune app installed? No magic, but maybe that just means you'd prefer our similarly enchanting iPad, iPhone, webOS, BlackBerry, or Android flavors?

Continue reading The Engadget app for Windows Phone is here

The Engadget app for Windows Phone is here originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appengadgetengadget appEngadgetAppmarketplacemicrosoftsoftwarewindows marketplacewindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsMarketplaceWindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7zunezune marketplaceZuneMarketplaceFri, 01 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bill Gates' kids 'aren't deprived,' they have Zunes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/bill-gates-kids-arent-deprived-they-have-zunes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/bill-gates-kids-arent-deprived-they-have-zunes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/bill-gates-kids-arent-deprived-they-have-zunes/#comments Bill Gates doesn't give too many interviews, but the Daily Mail's Caroline Graham sure managed to get a lot out of him during their recent sitdown. Gates spent much of the time discussing his global health foundation, which, according to him, has become "full-time work for the rest of my life." And, while he acknowledged that he's still involved with Microsoft on a "part-time" basis, he reaffirmed that he has no desire to return to the throne. Does this mean he's finally ready to lift his household's notorious Apple embargo and allow his kids to own iPods? Not exactly:

"They have the Windows equivalent. They have a Zune music player, which is a great Windows portable player. They are not deprived children."

Hear that? Bill's kids aren't in need! In fact, they even earn allowances and "do chores," just like your kids. Sure, their pops may have billions of dollars stowed away under his mattress, but he says his offspring will only receive a "minuscule portion" of that fortune. Cue the violins.

Bill Gates' kids 'aren't deprived,' they have Zunes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill and melinda gates foundationbill gatesbill gates interviewBillAndMelindaGatesFoundationBillGatesBillGatesInterviewdaily mailDailyMailideviceinheritanceinterviewipodkidsmicrosoftMicrosoft ZuneMicrosoftZunemoneyredmondwealthwindowszuneMon, 13 Jun 2011 08:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Homebrew utility lets you backup Windows Phone on your terms]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/homebrew-utility-lets-you-backup-windows-phone-on-your-terms/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/homebrew-utility-lets-you-backup-windows-phone-on-your-terms/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/homebrew-utility-lets-you-backup-windows-phone-on-your-terms/#comments Are you itching to find a manual backup solution for your Windows Phone? That's a tough one to scratch. Currently, the only way to fully protect your handset's data is to wait for Microsoft to issue new updates -- where backups are automatically created within Zune during install. Now, xda-developers member "hx4700 Killer" is eliminating those long waits with a homebrew solution that works directly with Zune by spoofing an update -- thereby triggering a backup. We're told everything on your phone gets saved, and you can even roll back to your prior software version. To do this you'll need a few things: Zune itself, Windows Phone Support Tools, an update package from any Windows Phone, and this killer utility. So, if you feel like doing the time warp again, hit the source article for the required downloads and some helpful instructions.

Homebrew utility lets you backup Windows Phone on your terms originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 May 2011 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backuphackhackshomebrewhx4700 killerHx4700KillerMicrosoftmobileMSFTrestorewindowsWindows Phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7wp7zunezune softwareZuneSoftwareTue, 31 May 2011 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent reveals Microsoft's Zune Nano, reminds us of an ambitious past]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/patent-filing-reveals-microsofts-zune-nano-reminds-us-of-an-am/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/patent-filing-reveals-microsofts-zune-nano-reminds-us-of-an-am/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/patent-filing-reveals-microsofts-zune-nano-reminds-us-of-an-am/#comments
See that there? That's a hope and a dream, both of which are seemingly situated in a nondescript box six feet beneath the surface of reality. Thanks to a bit of digging by the folks at Techie Buzz, a Microsoft patent was unearthed containing pictures and descriptions of a bantam media player, not unlike the sketches here. Naturally, the first thing that comes to mind is an iPod nano competitor, and one has to wonder when exactly the plug was pulled from such an initiative. The application itself was originally filed in April of 2009, and was just made public within the USPTO database today -- the last Zune device to be produced was the HD (which landed in the fall of '09), and given Redmond's insistence on making Windows Phone 7 its next Zune, we're guessing this little guy won't ever see the light of day. Maybe in another life, though. For now, feel free to pour one out as you think of what could've been, and give that source link a poke if you're good at holding back tears.

Patent reveals Microsoft's Zune Nano, reminds us of an ambitious past originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 May 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationpmpzunezune nanoZuneNanoTue, 31 May 2011 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Arrive slated for May 24 security update?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/htc-arrive-slated-for-may-24-security-update/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/htc-arrive-slated-for-may-24-security-update/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/htc-arrive-slated-for-may-24-security-update/#comments
We tend to get a little overexcited for phone updates, but who doesn't appreciate a good tweak to add new features and kill old bugs? The HTC Arrive on Sprint may be receiving a minor software refresh on May 24, known as 1.29.651.02, that should bump the device's security up a notch. The holes getting patched up are somehow related to fraudulent third-party certificates that make it easier for hackers to get into your business. This could be a glitch in the Matrix, or it might just be HTC's name for the 7392 patch. Either way, you'll definitely want to check Zune on Tuesday to see if the rumor (and your fanboy fantasy) will come true.

HTC Arrive slated for May 24 security update? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 May 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7392firmwarehtcmobilesoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesprintupdatewindowswindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7wp7zuneFri, 20 May 2011 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows Phone 7-style music player for Android arrives from the developer of LauncherPro]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/windows-phone-7-style-music-player-for-android-arrives-from-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/windows-phone-7-style-music-player-for-android-arrives-from-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/windows-phone-7-style-music-player-for-android-arrives-from-the/#comments
Any Android fans that envied Windows Phone 7's Metro UI style can have it for their media player (the WP7 launcher has been emulated before, try Launcher 7 in the Market), thanks to this app released by the developer of the popular LauncherPro homescreen replacement. As seen in the video above next to a real WP7 device, the look and functionality of the Zune player is present in a remarkably full featured interface despite its early alpha status, complete with features like scrobbling and playlists. The only thing it's really lacking so far is a name, and obviously any Zune software integration; while we wait to see if Microsoft has any reaction to this homage you can sideload the APK yourself from the source link.

Update: If you want to see the same app running on Honeycomb (and looking amazing) check out a screenshot after the break. [Thanks @Basil_Knows!]

Continue reading Windows Phone 7-style music player for Android arrives from the developer of LauncherPro

Windows Phone 7-style music player for Android arrives from the developer of LauncherPro originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 May 2011 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapkapphands-onhoneycomblauncher proLauncherPrometro uiMetroUimp3musicvideowindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7zuneFri, 20 May 2011 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft shutters Pioneer Studios, we pour one out for J Allard]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/microsoft-shutters-pioneer-studios-we-pour-one-out-for-j-allard/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/microsoft-shutters-pioneer-studios-we-pour-one-out-for-j-allard/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/microsoft-shutters-pioneer-studios-we-pour-one-out-for-j-allard/#comments
It's been about a year since he left Microsoft, but the J Allard era came to a more definitive close yesterday, with the shuttering of his brainchild, Pioneer Studios. Microsoft opened the incubation lab more than three years ago as an entrepreneurial space where designers could toy around with new consumer technologies. The tragically shelved Courier tablet was first developed within Pioneer's exposed brick walls, where Allard and his Alchemy Ventures team also worked on the Xbox, Zune and Windows Phone 7. Now, however, a Microsoft spokeswoman has confirmed that the downtown Seattle office is no longer occupied, telling CNET that many of the lab's employees have either left, or moved on to different positions within the company. Pioneer co-founder Georg Petschnigg left Microsoft in April to pursue an "undisclosed new venture," while fellow godfather Jonathan Harris is still at Redmond, where he serves as "principle experience director," according to their respective LinkedIn profiles. The spokeswoman didn't offer a specific reason for the decision, but in a now-ominous video posted to Microsoft's developer site back in October, Petschnigg acknowledged that the unit's innovative spirit would frequently lead to dead ends. "Often times our work just doesn't go anywhere," he explained, adding that Pioneer would only pursue projects expected to bring in more than $100 million a year. "That's one of the perils of being an entrepreneur." See the full video after the break.

Continue reading Microsoft shutters Pioneer Studios, we pour one out for J Allard

Microsoft shutters Pioneer Studios, we pour one out for J Allard originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 May 2011 05:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alchemy venturesAlchemyVenturesallardclosingcourierCourierTabletdesignentrepreneurGeorg PetschniggGeorgPetschniggincubatorincubator labIncubatorLabindustryinnovationJ AllardJAllardlabMicrosoftmicrosoft pioneer studiosMicrosoftPioneerStudiosPetschniggPioneerpioneer studiospioneer studios closingPioneerStudiosPioneerStudiosClosingredmondseattletabletvideowindows phone 7WindowsPhone7xboxzuneFri, 20 May 2011 05:28:00 EST<![CDATA[16GB Zune HD drops to $169, edging closer to EOL?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/16gb-zune-hd-drops-to-169-edging-closer-to-eol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/16gb-zune-hd-drops-to-169-edging-closer-to-eol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/16gb-zune-hd-drops-to-169-edging-closer-to-eol/#comments
With Windows Phone 7 offering full Zune functionality and then some, the new mobile OS has clearly created a surplus of lower-capacity Zune HD devices, causing Microsoft to respond with a rather significant price drop. Typically, a discount would indicate an imminent refresh, but we doubt that's the case here. The 16GB Zune HD has shaved off $30, to $169.99, and you can now grab the 32GB version for $199.99 -- the same price you would have paid for the 16 gig before the drop, and nearly $100 less than the $299 you'll spend on a 32GB iPod touch. The 64GB model is holding fast at $349.99, but with a $70 plunge on the mid-capacity model, you might have just enough cash left over for that tattoo you've always dreamed of.

[Thanks, Daniel]

16GB Zune HD drops to $169, edging closer to EOL? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 May 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmicrosoft zune hdMicrosoftZuneHdprice dropPriceDropwindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7zunezune hdZuneHdWed, 04 May 2011 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune HD finally gets an e-mail application, still waiting on a future]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/zune-hd-finally-gets-an-e-mail-application-still-waiting-on-a-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/zune-hd-finally-gets-an-e-mail-application-still-waiting-on-a-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/02/zune-hd-finally-gets-an-e-mail-application-still-waiting-on-a-f/#commentsZune HD finally gets an e-mail application, still waiting on a futureThe future of the Zune as a standalone media player is still a little in doubt, but its future of being able to send crucially important e-mails and, in return, get a boatload of spam is now fully assured. A free e-mail app has been added to the Zune Marketplace supporting Gmail, Windows Live Mail, and of course good 'ol POP3 accounts. Unfortunately all we have to gaze upon is that tiny screenshot over on the right, but it certainly looks familiar enough to fit right into the Zune ecosphere without making any waves. Just make sure you don't go looking for your Steely Dan collection inside the unread folder.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Zune HD finally gets an e-mail application, still waiting on a future originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appe-mailemailgmailmarketplacemicrosoftpop3softwarewindows live mailWindowsLiveMailzunezune app marketplacezune hdzune marketplaceZuneAppMarketplaceZuneHdZuneMarketplaceSat, 02 Apr 2011 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft job posting teases Windows Phone Mobile Studio, requires thinking cap to grok]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/microsoft-job-posting-teases-windows-phone-mobile-studio-requir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/microsoft-job-posting-teases-windows-phone-mobile-studio-requir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/microsoft-job-posting-teases-windows-phone-mobile-studio-requir/#comments A conclusion for Captain Obvious to draw, this is not. As with most mega-corp job postings, the wording in Microsoft's latest is just obfuscated enough to keep us guessing, but a few key phrases have us (as well as ZDNet's Mary-Jo Foley) on edge waiting for the next big thing in cloud storage. Judging by the rousing reception seen by Amazon's Cloud Drive, we're guessing that the folks in Redmond haven't forgotten completely about Kin's one positive feature: Kin Studio. Based on a new job request, there's a Windows Phone Mobile Studio brewing, and the leading thought is that this is really Kin Studio... but for WP7 devices. Granted, this may be nothing at all like it sounds -- we could be looking at a future home for apps, or simply another aspect of Zune that'll make music management a wee bit easier. That said, we'd love to see Microsoft bust out a world-class streaming / storage service for its mobile platform, and you can bet we'll be prying for details at MIX next month.

Microsoft job posting teases Windows Phone Mobile Studio, requires thinking cap to grok originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-oncloudcloud driveCloudDriveguijobjob listingjob postingJobListingJobPostingjobskinkin studioKinStudiomicrosoftMobile Communications Businessmobile osmobile studioMobileCommunicationsBusinessMobileOsMobileStudiomusicoffice 365Office365rumorsoftwarestoragethe mobile studioTheMobileStudiouiuixuser interfaceUserInterfacewindowswindows phone 7windows phone mobile studioWindowsPhone7WindowsPhoneMobileStudiowp7zuneWed, 30 Mar 2011 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft says Zune isn't exactly dead, that it doesn't want to go in the cart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/15/microsoft-says-zune-isnt-exactly-dead-that-it-doesnt-want-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/15/microsoft-says-zune-isnt-exactly-dead-that-it-doesnt-want-to/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/15/microsoft-says-zune-isnt-exactly-dead-that-it-doesnt-want-to/#commentsMicrosoft sort-of says Zune isn't dead, doesn't want to go in the cart Microsoft is still offering neither a firm confirmation nor a denial of yesterday's Bloomberg report citing those "familiar with the decision" that Zune-specific hardware, a la the Zune HD, is dead. Now, much like last time, folks from the Zune team are rebutting those claims -- sort of. Dave McLauchlan, Senior Business Development Manager for Zune, made a long statement in the anythingbutipod forums, but he stopped well short of saying that the Zune hardware platform is alive and kicking. Here's a taste:
ALL consumer electronics products have a lifespan, and the Zune HD is 18mo old. We were completely frank about this year's Zune hardware being the WP7 phones, and we continue to both sell and fully support the Zune HD line of products. And as I've promised - we continue to bring new apps and games to the platform. More of those are in the works, I promise you.
The big question is whether that 18 month old Zune HD will ever get a phone-free replacement. Whether it's WP7 or nothing from here. That is what Zune fans want to know, and as of now they still don't.

[Thanks, Ed]

Continue reading Microsoft says Zune isn't exactly dead, that it doesn't want to go in the cart

Microsoft says Zune isn't exactly dead, that it doesn't want to go in the cart originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dave McLauchlanDaveMclauchlandeadmicrosoftzunezune hdZuneHdTue, 15 Mar 2011 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft reportedly kills off Zune hardware, will focus on software instead]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/14/microsoft-reportedly-kills-off-zune-hardware-will-focus-on-soft/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/14/microsoft-reportedly-kills-off-zune-hardware-will-focus-on-soft/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/14/microsoft-reportedly-kills-off-zune-hardware-will-focus-on-soft/#comments
Details are still emerging on this one, but it looks like Microsoft has finally killed off the Zune -- or the hardware side of things, anyway. According to Bloomberg, a "person familiar with the decision" has confirmed that Microsoft won't be producing any new Zune media players, and that the company will instead focus solely on the Zune software that already has a foothold on the Xbox 360 and Windows Phone devices (it's not clear if the name will stick around). Microsoft will apparently continue to sell its existing Zunes as long as it has stock of them. More as we get it.

Microsoft reportedly kills off Zune hardware, will focus on software instead originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsmicrosoftzunezune hdZuneHdMon, 14 Mar 2011 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's Ventura could be a cloud music / video platform, have something to do with Zune]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/microsofts-ventura-could-be-a-cloud-music-video-platform-hav/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/microsofts-ventura-could-be-a-cloud-music-video-platform-hav/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/microsofts-ventura-could-be-a-cloud-music-video-platform-hav/#comments Zune hasn't gotten much love from Microsoft as of late, but that might change over time -- ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley noticed that the company is staffing up for a cloud-based multimedia project (by a group known as "Ventura Media Services") directed at PCs, TVs and mobile devices. "The team is a tight group of music and video lovers that create services and experiences revolving around music/video discovery and consumption," read a series of job postings that date back at least as far as July of 2010, calling for software developers in Beijing and Redmond who are familiar with the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. (Two of them have "Zune" in the job title.) While it's hard to say if this project is a major focus for Microsoft no matter how often the job posting says "large scale" (we count four times) it'd definitely be nice to have some competition for Google and Apple when they start drawing the multimedia-streaming battle lines.

[Thanks, zblack]

Microsoft's Ventura could be a cloud music / video platform, have something to do with Zune originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AzureEntertainment and Devicesentertainment and devices divisionEntertainmentAndDevicesEntertainmentAndDevicesDivisionhireshiringjobjob postingJobPostingjobsMicrosoftmusicplatformVenturaVentura Media ServicesVenturaMediaServicesvideoZuneTue, 08 Mar 2011 19:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune Insider reminds that Zune isn't dead, announces Zune HD launch in Canada]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/zune-insider-reminds-that-zune-isnt-dead-announces-zune-hd-lau/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/zune-insider-reminds-that-zune-isnt-dead-announces-zune-hd-lau/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/zune-insider-reminds-that-zune-isnt-dead-announces-zune-hd-lau/#commentsZune Insider reminds that Zune isn't dead, announces Zune HD launch in Canada We still have only an official non-denial from Microsoft about the continued livelihood of the name "Zune" as a brand, but now we have Zune Insider saying "Zune is not dead." Indeed we already knew that, but the question is what's coming in the future with Windows Phone seemingly getting all the company's attention of late. The future we still don't know about, but we do have some news about the present for Canadians: the Zune HD! Yes, our friendly neighbors to the north need no longer look south to purchase Microsoft's latest entry to the Zune series -- though "latest" is a somewhat sad designation for hardware that was released in 2009. However, there's still no Marketplace available: it'll strictly be a BYO tunage affair for now.

Zune Insider reminds that Zune isn't dead, announces Zune HD launch in Canada originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadamarketplacemicrosoftpmpportableportable media playerPortableMediaPlayerzunezune hdzune marketplaceZuneHdZuneMarketplaceMon, 21 Feb 2011 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft pushing small update to Windows Phones to prepare for copy and paste update later on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/microsoft-pushing-small-update-to-windows-phones-to-prepare-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/microsoft-pushing-small-update-to-windows-phones-to-prepare-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/microsoft-pushing-small-update-to-windows-phones-to-prepare-for/#commentsDon't get too excited when you see this update notification pop up -- as far as we can tell, it's got nothing users will notice -- but we've just been told by Microsoft that the company is getting ready to send out the first software upgrade to Windows Phone 7 devices in the field early this week. It's being billed as a "minor update to help prepare" for the copy and paste stuff (which we're assuming is still targeted for early- to mid-March, per Ballmer's MWC keynote), though the exact timing of this first one will vary a bit depending on carrier. Oh, and a note before you hook up to try to grab it: it also required a recently-pushed update to the Zune software (or the Connector for Mac OS), so you'll need to get that first before restarting the app and looking for the phone firmware.

Microsoft pushing small update to Windows Phones to prepare for copy and paste update later on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftupdateupgradewindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7wp7zuneMon, 21 Feb 2011 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Zune is dying, long live Microsoft Zune?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/16/microsoft-zune-is-dying-long-live-microsoft-zune/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/16/microsoft-zune-is-dying-long-live-microsoft-zune/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/16/microsoft-zune-is-dying-long-live-microsoft-zune/#comments In all the Microkia hub-bub of late, as the best of Redmond and the pride of Tampere hold hands and blaze a trail to smartphone domination, the word "Zune" never once came up. This didn't escape the notice of many, including MS guru Paul Thurrott and ZDNet's Mary-Jo Foley, who inquired to someone at Microsoft about just what's going on -- whether indeed the brand is indeed being killed off. This is the non-denial that came back:
We're not 'killing' any of the Zune services/features in any way. Microsoft remains committed to providing a great music and video experience from Zune on platforms such as Xbox LIVE, Windows-based PCs, Zune devices and Windows Phone 7, as well as integration with Bing and MSN.
It's unclear what exactly is happening, especially when it comes to dedicated Zune hardware and services like Zune Pass, but it certainly seems like "Zune" as a brand is on its last legs. Feel free to share your favorite memories below, and try not to cry, because our hearts... our hearts will go on.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Microsoft Zune is dying, long live Microsoft Zune?

Microsoft Zune is dying, long live Microsoft Zune? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microkiamicrosoftnokiavideoxbox liveXboxLivezunezune passZunePassWed, 16 Feb 2011 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[iTunes stays on top of growing internet movie business in 2010, but 2011 could be very different]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/09/itunes-stays-on-top-of-growing-internet-movie-business-in-2010/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/09/itunes-stays-on-top-of-growing-internet-movie-business-in-2010/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/09/itunes-stays-on-top-of-growing-internet-movie-business-in-2010/#comments While much of the news lately has surrounded subscription internet movie and TV services the video on-demand market was up nearly 40% last year and is expected to keep growing. According to stats from IHS Screen Digest, video revenue for the Apple iTunes store grew 60 percent last year, but saw its overall market share shrink from 74.4 to 64.5 percent. This is mostly explained as a side affect of the Kinect driving up Microsoft Xbox 360 sales at the end of last year and introducing its Zune store to a new market of families looking for digital entertainment. The up and comer to watch for 2011 appears to be the Wal-mart/Vudu combo, currently fourth in line behind Sony but poised to grow by showing up on more devices and increasing its promotional efforts. Of course, as NewTeeVee points out, the ultimate wild card in all of this is the launch of Ultraviolet buy-once/watch-anywhere DRM later this year (without support from Apple or Disney) and the effect it could have by causing consumers to see digital downloads as a viable option instead of the fragmented mess they are now -- good luck with that.

[Thanks, Aaron]

iTunes stays on top of growing internet movie business in 2010, but 2011 could be very different originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 06:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystihs screen digestIhsScreenDigestinternet videoInternetVideoisuppliitunesmarket shareMarketShareplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps3psnsonyultravioletvideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodvuduxbox 360Xbox360zuneWed, 09 Feb 2011 06:44:00 EST<![CDATA[How to keep your unlocked HTC WP7 device from re-locking after every sync]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/20/how-to-keep-your-unlocked-htc-wp7-device-from-re-locking-after-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/20/how-to-keep-your-unlocked-htc-wp7-device-from-re-locking-after-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/20/how-to-keep-your-unlocked-htc-wp7-device-from-re-locking-after-e/#commentsHow to keep your unlocked HTC WP7 device from re-locking after every sync Okay, so the WP7 hacking community may not be quite as active as that working tirelessly to keep every facet of Android devices splayed to the breeze, but that's not to say there isn't a skilled group of tinkerers doing their best on Microsoft's best. ChevronWP7 is a clear example of that, and though it's been officially pulled it is still quite certainly being used. Now its functionality has been extended with a second hack that enables you to use Zune to sync your HTC handset without it getting all locked up tight again. You can find all the details on the other end of the source link below, but we'll go ahead and warn you that as soon as the next WP7 version drops this particular unlock will be disabled. Then it'll be on to the next one.

How to keep your unlocked HTC WP7 device from re-locking after every sync originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevronwp7hackhackedhtcunlockwindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7zuneThu, 20 Jan 2011 12:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune HD Mac support secretly hidden in Windows Phone 7 Connector software]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/zune-hd-mac-support-secretly-hidden-in-windows-phone-7-connecter/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/zune-hd-mac-support-secretly-hidden-in-windows-phone-7-connecter/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/zune-hd-mac-support-secretly-hidden-in-windows-phone-7-connecter/#comments We've been begging Microsoft to somehow add Mac compatibility to the Zune for years, and it looks like there's a tiny little ray of hope buried in Redmond's Windows Phone 7 Connector for OS X: a simple plist modification will let it sync the Zune HD as well. That really shouldn't be any big surprise, since WP7's media interface is built on top of Zune, but at least it's something -- although we're still hoping and wishing for the full Zune suite (and Zune Pass) to make its way to the Mac someday.

Zune HD Mac support secretly hidden in Windows Phone 7 Connector software originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applemacmicrosoftos xOsXWindows Phone 7 Connectorwindows phone 7 connector for macWindowsPhone7ConnectorWindowsPhone7ConnectorForMaczunezune hdZuneHdMon, 10 Jan 2011 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft slide chronicles the journey from Portable Media Center to Windows Phone 7]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/microsoft-slide-chronicles-the-journey-from-portable-media-cente/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/microsoft-slide-chronicles-the-journey-from-portable-media-cente/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/microsoft-slide-chronicles-the-journey-from-portable-media-cente/#comments In case you missed it, Wired has a new piece out on the (very brief) history of Windows Phone 7. Unfortunately, the article pulls all punches, and skates through some bizarre statements from Microsofties, including calling Kin "a worthwhile risk that resulted in important lessons," and the real head scratcher of the piece: "Software is like making a movie and building a skyscraper. You're not quite sure how it's going to stand until it comes out in the end." Still, we were glad to find this slide (pictured above) in the article's photo gallery, chronicling the journey of the Metro design language from Microsoft's ill-fated Portable Media Center, to the vaguely successful Zune products, and around at last to the newly available Windows Phone 7. A bit of comeuppance for 2004's ahead-of-its-time, PlaysForSure-laden iPod killer? We like to think so.

Microsoft slide chronicles the journey from Portable Media Center to Windows Phone 7 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metrometro uiMetroUimicrosoftpmcportable media centerPortableMediaCenterwindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7zuneMon, 08 Nov 2010 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA['Liberate' for the Zune HD unlocks hidden Windows CE potential]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/liberate-for-the-zune-hd-unlocks-hidden-windows-ce-potential/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/liberate-for-the-zune-hd-unlocks-hidden-windows-ce-potential/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/liberate-for-the-zune-hd-unlocks-hidden-windows-ce-potential/#comments Sure, we just spent the last four or five years chiding Microsoft for its anachronistic Windows CE interface, a UI which was holding Windows Mobile back in a post-stylus world, but now that Windows Phone 7 is here we get to start feeling all nostalgic, right? The ongoing Liberate project for the Zune HD, which just hit version 1.5.1, strips away that flashy Zune veneer and boots the device to Microsoft's stock CE 6.0 copy of explorer.exe. Notably, the latest version adds an onscreen keyboard and better right click support. Folks are using the freedom of CE to run applications like Foxit Reader, Opera Mini and Pocket Word, and with support for GDI, DirectDraw, and OpenGL ES 2.0 there's hope of gaming ports as well.

[Thanks, David R.]

'Liberate' for the Zune HD unlocks hidden Windows CE potential originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceexplorerexplorer.exehackliberatemicrosoftwindowswindows ceWindowsCezunezune hdZuneHdMon, 01 Nov 2010 20:44:00 EST