logos
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This funky new font is made up entirely of brands
A digital studio called Hello Velocity has created a typeface that embraces well-known corporate logos and is still somehow far less annoying than Comic Sans. The studio says it creates "thought-provoking internet experiences," and its Brand New Roman font is a clever statement on consumerism.
Design your own team logos, uniforms in Madden NFL contest
EA Tiburon kicked off a design contest late last week for the next game in the Madden NFL series. The developer is challenging fans with creating new logos and uniforms for the game, and is accepting submissions now through March 7. EA's last release in the series, Madden 25, brought back the ability to relocate NFL teams in the game to 17 different cities. While the contest announcement stresses that EA prefers user-created logo and uniform designs based on those 17 cities and the dozens of team names that were created for Madden 25, it will accept submissions that involve other team names and locations. Those looking to enter their designs for, say, a Milwaukee-based football franchise can download EA's uniform and logo design packet (in .zip file form) to get started. [Image: EA Sports]
Microsoft unveils new logo for the first time in 25 years
Microsoft unveiled a new logo for the first time in 25 years today. The company's name now appears in the smoother, more modern Segoe font, and next to it is Window 8's 'flag', but with four colored squares. Going by the video after the jump, the blue square appears to represent Windows, the red square Office, the green square Xbox (whose logo remains unchanged), and the yellow square ... something new, maybe?For the last quarter of a century, Microsoft has used the "Pacman logo", as designed by Scott Baker in 1987. The slash between the o and s was supposed to represent the motion and speed of the company and its products. Microsoft chose to change the logo to "visually accentuate" a new beginning in the form of Windows 8, Windows Phone 8, the next version of Office – and maybe the next version of Xbox?Take a look at an intro video from Microsoft below the break.
Logoist for Mac: A simple way to create logos and other useful graphics
There are many apps that can be used to create backgrounds, logos, and other graphics. Usually, the better the output, the more expensive the program. Photoshop comes to mind as the perfect example of one of these apps -- it's pricey, but it can do just about anything in terms of creating graphics. Let me turn your attention to a new app that has just appeared in the Mac app store. It's called Logoist, and it's a toolkit for creating company logos, letterheads, backgrounds -- just about anything graphical. It's on sale at an introductory half-off price of US$19.99. When you launch the program you're greeted by about a hundred possible designs, but you can start with a blank sheet of paper and do your own designs. You have complete control of text, with effects like glass, drop shadows, borders, rotation -- all the things you would expect. You can create borders, backgrounds, and even access more than 3000 built-in vector-based pieces of clip-art and then modify them to meet your needs. When your creation is complete, it can be exported in native Photoshop format at 600 dpi. Of course, you can also export in formats supported by Pages, Keynote, MS Office or pretty much any other app that supports basic graphic standards. The app also supports Auto Save and Full Screen Mode in Lion. In practice, the app worked quite well. I was able to quickly create some stunning logos with multiple layers with little effort. My only real complaint about the app is that it has a learning curve. The help system deals with specific features, but never gives instructions on how to start from scratch with a blank page. Most users will figure it out after a bit of trial and error, but some things just aren't readily apparent. I've discussed this issue with the developer, and he says videos are on the way. Logoist is a very clever program, and perfect for someone who needs to create unique graphic elements for a business or a presentation. It has a lot of power while being easy on your wallet. Yes, there are other ways to create these kinds of graphics, but Logoist is low in cost and very high in power and features. I think the app is worthy of consideration if you find yourself needing custom graphics and don't want to buy canned clipart or designs from someone else. Logoist is a 78 MB download and requires OS X 10.6 or greater. Check the gallery below for some of my admittedly modest designs. %Gallery-159502%
Ice Cream Sandwich may have a built-in photo editor to help your pictures turn out halfway decent
If you envision Ice Cream Sandwich -- the latest iteration of Android -- as a revolutionary update that satisfies every single one of your geeky lusts, we sure hope you've been aching for a photo editor. It appears that AndroidPolice has hunted down a variety of icons and logos presumed to be associated with the feature, but it's not certain if these will actually appear in the final build. The icons hint at a smattering of image editing tools: crop, sharpen, flip, rotate and a selection of 19 possible photo effects are among the options. Again, this is highly speculative, and rumors such as these will likely ramp up as we approach the official announcement. 'Course, we won't scoff at the idea of a native photo editor in Ice Cream Sandwich, but we're sincerely hoping this won't be the coolest thing about the new OS at Tuesday's announcement in Hong Kong. [Thanks, Paul]
Windows Phone changes logo, officially hip to be square
What's in a logo? These days, it's everything -- it's one of the most recognizable symbols a company can have, and it appears Microsoft isn't taking its emblems lightly. Over the course of the past week we've noticed an interesting trend: the Windows Phone branding has shed the circle-based icon in exchange for a square-shaped variant, appropriately reflecting the platform's "tile" look and minimalist theme. We first thought this was a fluke when we peered at the new logo at Fujitsu's IS12T event last week, as though it were a localized version made for Japan; as it turns out, however, this is indeed an official change across the board. If you need more proof than the source link below, yesterday's press invite for Nokia's Gamescom party features the new squared variant as well. We're still holding out for a green robot-shaped logo, but this will have to do for now.
Camp Logos took me from know-nothing to advanced
Over the weekend, I attended the Camp Logos training seminar for Logos Bible Study software. I have been to lots of seminars, but this was my first one specifically about software, and I went in not really knowing what to expect. I was completely blown away by how useful it was. When Logos for Mac came out last year, I spent a little bit of time using it, but I never really got into it. Logos 4 is a major redesign, and it was recently released for Mac. This is software that I could use on a daily basis, and learning more about it would save me a great deal of time, so it seemed like a good fit. Read on for more...
Logos 4 Mac released
Logos, a cross-platform Bible study program for Windows, Mac, and iOS, has been updated to version 4. To celebrate, they are offering some great deals on their base packages and upgrades at Logos.com. Students should checkout their academic pricing as well. There's a good overview of new features available on their website, including a list of 100 new features in Logos 4. Look for a more detailed review after I've had some time to live with the official release. In the meantime, there are a slew of great resources available to show you around on the official website. Note: off-topic comments will be deleted. If this app (or religion in general) isn't for you, just move along to the next article.
Shocker! Google's Android logo boosted from Atari Lynx title 'Gauntlet: The Third Encounter'
Back in the early 90's whilst playing our Atari Lynx -- friendless and alone, of course -- we couldn't have imagined that a second-rate spinoff of the popular Gauntlet franchise would unlock the secrets behind the birth of Google's Android OS. But, lo and behold, what has one of our faithful tipsters found down here, amongst the ruins of Gauntlet: The Third Encounter? That's right, nearly irrefutable proof that the Android team (or at least its graphic designers) have plumbed the depths of Epyx's not-quite-masterpiece for the iconic droid logo we've come to know and love. Sure, the top-down scroller provided all kinds of new character classes like the "Nerd," "Punkrocker," and "Pirate," but only one of these fresh faces would provide the blueprint for Android's public face. It's hard to argue that there isn't some level of appropriation here, given the multiple similarities between the two pieces of art, right down to the antennae, dotted eyes, general size and shape, and even the strip which cuts across the midsection of the bot. Oh yeah, and the character is named Android. We personally would like to hear what Google has to say for themselves in regards to this blatant theft of intellectual property, and as for the Epyx artists who slaved over a hot Amiga to bring this image to life -- the taste of sweet justice is yours. %Gallery-101193% [Thanks, Davey]
New Microsoft brand logos, company tagline revealed at MGX event? (update: no new logos, tagline is a go)
It looks like Microsoft may have revealed something big at its annual MGX (Microsoft Global Exchange) event, namely... new logos for its main brands and a fresh brand motto. "Be What's Next" touts a teaser which has been posted on YouTube, along with a fast moving sequence of morphing logos, shuffling from Windows, to Windows Phone, Xbox, Bing, and finally the familiar Office logo that's been kicking around for a little longer. It's unclear if these are just treatments used for a promo at the event, or if this is a signal that Redmond is dumping its familiar (and frankly dated) iconography for something a little looser, leaner, and hipper, but we can't say it would be a bad thing. It would certainly make sense against a backdrop of potential comeback in the mobile space, gains in search, and the seemingly successful (or at least satisfying) Windows 7 launch. One thing is for sure, MGX is a corporate, non-public opportunity for the Microsoft faithful to cheer the brand (Ballmer received a 30 year commemoration at MGX 2010), so this would definitely be the place to unfurl some new branding. Check the video after the break to see the new style, and hit the gallery below for a bigger look. Update: So... the YouTube video has been pulled. Fear not, we've got our own copy! Update 2: We've just been contacted by Microsoft and told that these are not new logos which will be used on products, rather a standalone treatment to show the flexibility of joined brands. However, the "Be What's Next" tagline is real, and will be showing up here and there. [Thanks, Anonymous] %Gallery-97972%
HDMI logos updated: version numbers out, supported features in
A response to cable sellers marking hardware v1.4 compliant before a test was even available or just another way for Monster Cable to ratchet up prices, we're not sure, but HDMI Licensing, LLC has reworked the packaging requirements for all new cables and products. Cable packaging must lose version numbers starting today, while HDMI-equipped components can only use version numbers in conjunction with listing specific features supported, and lose version numbers entirely starting January 1, 2012. The picture above features logos you'll find on certified hardware going forward, while we can appreciate being tied to supported features and not just version numbers that may or may not fully apply (*cough cough* remember the "HDMI 1.3" PS3Fat?) there's no way things get any less confusing when hooking up the new 4K or 3D capable HDTVs.
Logos brings free Bible study tools to the iPhone
We've mentioned Logos for Mac before, but now there is Logos Bible Software for iPhone (iTunes link), a free app providing access to several translations of the Bible and other Bible study books (most of the ones available at http://bible.logos.com). That's pretty good. If you create a free account at Logos.com, you gain access to even more free resources. That's even better. The app also lets you set up reading lists, which is an excellent idea. I've read through the Bible twice in the past few years, and used Mobile Safari on my iPhone to keep up with online lists. This app would have been much easier to use. Many of the free resources are older, but the English Standard Version (ESV) is a good and fairly modern translation. There are also comparison tools available, as well as dictionaries. (UPDATE: Ryan Burns from Logos.com added a complete list in the comments.) I'm almost hesitant to mention this next feature. Here's the good news: the new Logos version 4 will work with the iPhone app, giving you access over the Internet to books that you have purchased. That's a pretty killer feature. Here's the bad news: the Mac version of Logos 4 is not finished. (That sound you just heard was an angry mob of Mac users grabbing their pitchforks off the wall and looking for the kerosene to light their torches.) Logos is developed both for Windows and Mac, and the Windows version beat the Mac version out the door. The developers explain that the underlying "core" works on both Windows and Mac, and that the pre-release version "reads and indexes the exact same resources and data files as the Windows version. It synchronizes with the server and even uploads and downloads notes, settings, and other data. It can automatically update itself over the Internet. It just needs work at the user interface level, and we're doing that as fast as we can." They go on to explain that the Windows and iPhone versions are both ready, and delaying "wouldn't speed up the Mac product, it would just delay access for the larger group of users." They describe version 4 as "a completely new product." All of which is fairly reasonable, but unlikely to soothe the nerves of some Mac users who will no doubt feel like second-class citizens. The iPhone app still offers a lot of functionality, even without Logos 4 integration, and it is completely free. Do you have a favorite iPhone Bible study app? If so, please let us know in the comments. I realize a lot of you are not religious and may not have any use or affinity for this particular app, but it would be appreciated if you'd let others have a chance to discuss this.
Logos for Mac worth the wait for Bible students
I have been waiting for Logos for Mac, the Bible research application suite, for over a year. I take that back: I have been waiting for Logos for the Mac for over five years, when I first switched to Mac after a brief and unfortunate experience in the Windows world. Before we go any further I must stop to address the fear which has already gripped many Mac users. Let me say this clearly: this is no hastily slapped together Mac "port" of a Windows application. In fact 15 seconds into the introductory video, they proudly announce: "What we've done for the Mac is rebuild it from the ground up." You can tell. Logos for Mac looks and feels like a native Mac application. How native? If you can copy a passage from Logos to Microsoft Word for Mac, it automatically creates a footnote in APA, BibTex, Chicago, Harvard, MLA, Refer-BiblX, RIS, SBL, or Turabian format (whichever you choose in the preferences). As someone who has no love for footnoting, this may be my favorite feature of any piece of software ever. There are also Mac-specific support videos to help you learn to use the software and native Mac "Help" available in the application itself. The Mac version does not support all of the Windows features, although they say they "plan to add many of these features in upcoming versions." You can see a list of some of those features on a chart of features covered at Camp Logos, a two-day training seminar for Logos users. The same page also makes it clear that they have been thinking about Mac users for these seminars, and in fact usually have someone there who is a Mac user to help if needed.
Linden Lab chases new logo for Second Life Snowglobe viewer
Linden Lab has launched a contest on 99designs to obtain a new logo for their Snowglobe Second Life viewer. The prize has been prepaid to 99designs and the chosen winner will be paid the sum of US$295 by them. Of course, a logo to these requirements would normally cost quite a bit more through normal channels. We can't help thinking that if Linden Lab were truly thinking of this as community-sourcing, that they'd be offering commercial rates to the winner. As it is, the proffered prize is much closer to the bottom of the range of logo-design prizes on 99designs than it is to the top.
All Points Bulletin video podcast shows off symbol creation and character customization
Since E3 2009 the All Points Bulletin team at Realtime Worlds has been releasing video podcasts showing aspects of the urban crime title, and no doubt gaining some new fans in the process. We mentioned an earlier video that focused on customization options players will have, but Realtime Worlds is taking that a step further in their latest video podcast, which walks the viewer through the layer-based symbol customization players will use in All Points Bulletin.The demonstration from senior concept artist Jon Stockwell shows how simple it is to create and manipulate layers in a symbol, resulting in your own unique look. As the video shows, that symbol can be applied to characters in the form of tattoos or graphics on clothing, and even used to detail your vehicles. Have a look at the video we've embedded for you below, and let us know what you think.
Changes to custom alliance logos in EVE Online
One of the nicer aspects of establishing an alliance identity in EVE Online is that you're not stuck with the standard mix-and-match of graphics to create a logo. You can submit your own custom image which then becomes your alliance logo, viewable in-game. EVE dev CCP Loktofeit stated that there are now going to be changes with the Alliance Logo System which should cut down on the time between submission and when your logo is visible in-game.Unfortunately, as this new submission process goes into effect, any alliance that has submitted their logos but have not yet received approval will need to re-submit. Loktofeit said, "All previous submissions have been purged form the database in preparation for the new system." If this situation affects you or your alliance, you'll need to review the updated submission criteria, and read up a bit on the new submission/review/acceptance processes as well, which are detailed in CCP Loktofeit's dev blog and being discussed on the forums.
Watch a video of Richard Garriott's geeky but enviable space voyage
By now a lot of you know that Richard Garriott, creator of Ultima Online and Tabula Rasa, is in space. Sadly, since we didn't watch the live broadcast of his liftoff, we only know this through second-hand reports. But it's all going to be okay -- the NASA TV broadcast has been uploaded to YouTube, so if you missed it as we did then you too can watch an eccentric and wealthy nerd experience his lifelong dream. We've embedded it after the jump. Enjoy!Garriott lifted off on October 12th, carrying with him the DNA of Operation Immortality participants, including some Tabula Rasa players. Shortly after liftoff he displayed to the camera a Logos message to the camera on the spacecraft -- simultaneously an inspiring quote about space travel from a Russian scientist ("Earth is the cradle of humanity but mankind will not be in the cradle forever.") and a hint at upcoming additions to Tabula Rasa.[Via Joystiq]
Richard Garriott's Logos message to Tabula Rasa players deciphered
A couple of minutes after Richard Garriott's flight to the International Space Station blasted off, he held up a sign for the camera, consisting of two strings of heiroglyphs. Tabula Rasa players will have recognised these instantly as Logos, the pictographs of the Eloh, and key to unlocking the various Logos abilities. The message's cryptic quality was further enhanced by the obscurity of some of the symbols, which were completely new.As of last night, community member Lady Valashar has provided the translation: 'Earth is the cradle of humanity but mankind will not be in the cradle forever', first spoken by Soviet rocket scientist Konstantin E. Tsiolkovsky. What's even more thrilling for those of us who follow Tabula Rasa news closely is a hint dropped by NCsoft staff member Leilo, who stated 'Several of the symbols are new. Though one will have significance in-game in the near future...'Among the new symbols is the very first one, interpreted as 'Earth', and it's third-rock-from-the-sun appearance can surely mean nothing else. There have been many rumors recently that a return to Earth is on the cards in Tabula Rasa, including the exhortation to 'kick those Bane bastards off our own planet' from new Lead Designer Susan Kath. If this is really the news that's waiting to drop, it's going to be huge for the game.
Massively Exclusive: Tabula Rasa's AFS War College
Last week we got a chance to visit NCsoft's Austin offices to attend the first ever AFS War College, where some of Tabula Rasa's finest soldiers were invited to join NCsoft's developers for a day of discussions, questions, and demos. We took a tour of the facilities guided by Richard Garriott himself, and we invite you to join us as we learn all about the design of Logos, hear all the details on how Tabula Rasa is developed, and see the TR developers' top priorities. Have we piqued your interest yet? Click along with us and see what came of this year's War College!Let's get started in the audio department >>%Gallery-25259%
Clan Gear: guild clothing for the masses
Adam and Freya Chapman have run Threadsafe, a direct-to-garment printing business, for the last two years, and have managed to pull in a number of corporate clients. They provide printing services for Bountee -- a custom t-shirt site on the internet -- and shirts for Freaklabel music, just to name two. Now, in conjunction with Adam's brother Keith, they're opening Clan Gear, a direct-to-garment printing outlet for gamers, where the focus on the printing is your artwork, your character, and your designs.Here's the rub: while Threadsafe has been in business for a couple of years now, Clan Gear is just starting up, and they're still working on their proof catalog. While you can keep up with the advances in technology (and the company itself) via Clan Gear's official forums, the best way to see what they've done in the past is to check out Threadsafe's commercial customers and the clans that have already availed themselves of Clan Gear's printing. Current samples up on their web page include shirts for Marshmallow Underground -- a World of Warcraft guild with over 300 members -- and Guilds United, a coalition of ten WoW guilds.
