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Apple patents "Smart Covers" for devices
Apple has patented a new kind of cover or skin for devices like the iPhone and iPad. The "smart covers" deliver a paradigm shift for electronic device covers, according to the patent. Apple notes that traditional skins and covers only provide protection from dents and scratches. A smart device cover would add at least one electronic function to traditional skins, allowing not only protection of the device, but augmentation of the devices capabilities. Force sensors, solar grids, lighting effects, illuminated bezels, and even video conferencing are among the myriad uses the patent discusses for various smart covers. Additionally the patent discusses adding a physical keyboard and game pad smart cover to touch screen devices. As always, just because Apple patents a device doesn't mean it will ever see the light of day. One is also left to wonder about the practicality of some of the skins (like a keyboard cover) that would obstruct part of the screen. [via 9to5]
Windows Phone 7 Series will have themes... sort of
It's no TouchFLO or SPB Mobile Shell, but it turns out you will be able theme Windows Phone 7 Series... a little. Although we've only ever seen the classy "dark" theme with the black background, Microsoft just demoed a "light" theme with dark text on a white background. Earth-shattering, we know. Both themes also have selectable accent colors, but don't expect to go crazy here: your choices are red, orange, green and blue. We're hoping all of these options will be expanded over time, but for now it's not looking like a customizer's dream come true. %Gallery-88403%
Another batch of armor skins for WAR
Mythic Entertainment just released eight new armor set designs for Warhammer Online. This part, two of three, features redesigns and comparisons for the Marauder, Shaman, Chosen, Witch Elf, Archmage, White Lion, Witch Hunter, and Knight of the Blazing Sun. They are seeking feedback from players, which can be shared in this forum thread.The studio drew a bit of criticism for their first batch of redesigns because they seemed to be comparing low resolution versions of the older sets versus high resolution renders of the new sets. It seems as though they've avoided that this time around.One thing we've always loved about the gear in WAR (even the old skins) is that it has such visual depth, dimension and personality. Rather than looking as if it was simply added as a distortion map on your character (that bends and stretches with his body), each piece appears individual, nicely interlocking with the others on top of your character. The higher end gear looks quite dark and Gothic, as if it was meant for pain and battle and the new designs show a much more obvious progression than the previous sets, that's for sure (most obvious in the Chosen and Knight).
Kent Displays's Reflex LCD Electronic Skin changes colors to match your shirt, lipstick
Is that Coco Chanel cellphone applique you got at the mall starting to look a little... last season? Kent Displays Reflex LCD Electronic Skins may be the perfect partner to your fickle ways, changing colors on demand to suit your every mood and/or outfit. The company first started talking them up late last year and now is finally showing them off, flexible single-pixel displays with an eight-color range and the ability to be layered to form multiple color-changing regions, like logos for your next alternative advertising venture. Despite the demonstration videos below these still don't seem to be ready for consumer purchase, rather Kent appears to be looking for manufacturing partners. Hurry up and get those production lines working -- our corporate Blackberries aren't getting any more interesting by themselves.[Via Engadget German]
Channel Four on Demand: Sorry, Mac users
Mac users in the UK have been waiting a long time (like, years) for Channel 4's Video on Demand "Catch Up" service to come to their platform, and finally, after long last, the day is here. And they're sorry, Mac users -- they say so with the cute video above. Of course, the reason why it's now compatible is because it's the Flash-based web version linked above, and not actually the desktop app that Windows users had. But late and web-based is still better than never, right? Right?At any rate, it's nice to know they care enough to make a funny video. The site features Channel 4 content for up to 30 days after broadcast, so if you happen to miss Hollyoaks, Skins, or Fat Pets (I'm just kidding -- being an ignorant American, I have no idea what those shows are or if they're any good), there's your chance to catch up.
Princess of Persia plays dress-up as Jade from Beyond Good & Evil
Given the close working relationship between the Prince of Persia team and Jade Raymond's Assassin's Creed group at Ubisoft Montreal, our first thought upon hearing this news was that Ubisoft included a Jade Raymond skin for Elika in the latest PoP. It actually turns out to be – as Destructoid has discovered – a freebie that "tranforms" the Prince's sidekick into Jade, the lead character from the underrated platformer Beyond Good & Evil.The Jade skin is obtained simply by finishing the game, which goes on sale today. Creating an account on Ubisoft's site and registering your copy also provides an unlock for the Prince's previously revealed Altaïr (Assassin's Creed) costume. Considering that we've seen neither hide nor hair swine of Ubi's BG&E sequel since it was announced earlier this year, we'll consider this a consolation gift for the delay. (And, hopefully, proof that Ubisoft hasn't forgotten about the game.)
Boss models updated in Wrath Beta
A nice surprise awaited the citizens of Stormwind and the Undercity when the new Beta build went live earlier. New, unique models for King Varian Wrynn and Lady Sylvanas Windrunner debuted in their respective cities, looking every bit as awesome as faction leaders should be. Although Lady Sylvanas received a makeover over a month ago -- changed from the erroneous Night Elf model into the proper High or Blood Elf model -- this newest iteration is more regal, more intimidating, and just more badass. Taking a screenshot proved difficult as throngs of admirers threw all sorts of emotes at the new Dark Lady from /cowers to /kisses. King Varian Wrynn in Stormwind also received a graphic overhaul, upgrading from pre-TBC PvP Honor gear to a unique armor set with an eagle and lion motif. He also no longer dual-wields Jade Serpentblades but more appropriately what looks like Quel'serrar. So Wrynn has apparently taken care of the Onyxia problem. Twice. Alex Ziebart points out that he also seems to be wearing Anduin Lothar's belt (always thank your lore nerds!). It's a cool model except that he always seems to be scowling and occasionally yawns. But the details matter -- Varian's face is also battle-scarred -- and I want to seriously give props to the Blizzard artists behind these new models. They're just completely fantastic.[EDIT: I probably should have mentioned this, too, since I'd already checked it out but reader RogueJedi86 called me on it -- they also updated the dragon model for Alexstraza, and can be viewed on World of Raids. She really likes her trinkets and baubles like the sophisticated lady that she is...]In other news, this Beta build also saw the traitorious Varimathras converted into a duotone Rubik's Cube. Maybe a placeholder for better graphics or punishment for being such an arrogant lackey? If anything, however, with all these unique models coming out, perhaps it's a good time to update the other boss models in the game. Thrall, the baddest of all badasses, still looks like he's in Level 40 greens [NOTE: Reader Skeeran correctly reminds me that Thrall's armor is Orgrim Doomhammer's armor as seen in Warcraft III... but it still looks like Level 40 greens.]. Even worse off is Cairne Bloodhoof, who looks like he got all his gear from the Wailing Caverns. Since these bosses are soon going receive a lot of visitors, it's probably a good time to dress them up properly to receive them. I mean, Tyrande Whisperwind is still wearing a nightdress...
DS Daily: Accessorizing
Most DS owners have, at some time or another, picked up a case (to protect the system) or perhaps a specialized stylus. But have you bought anything else? Hard shells, skins -- decorative, silicon, or both -- or something wacky like a stand? We'd love to hear how you accessorize your baby, even if it's only a matter of buying something to keep those tiny carts in.
Activision dishes out free On Tour skins
Remember that video that showed you how to skin your Guitar Hero: On Tour peripheral? Well, you might want to put that knowledge to work, as the official site for Guitar Hero: On Tour has updated with some badass skins you can print out and use to customize to your little rocker heart's content. All you have to do is head over here. Each of the skins comes in a PDF file, so once you click on it and print it, it should be a snap to cut out and insert into the peripheral. %Gallery-19362% [Via Go Nintendo]
Skin that On Tour peripheral
Now here's a neat video. For those of you who have picked up Guitar Hero: On Tour and want to add a little bit of your own personal style to the included peripheral, the above video will aid you in doing just that. It's surprisingly easy to create your own skin insert for the thing. While the video doesn't showcase the most artistic replacement, we're sure you creative folk out there wont have much trouble coming up with some really badass skins. Anyone going to give this a try? %Gallery-19362% [Thanks, Max!]
Stick on a skully spring skin
Tis the season to feature skulls in springtime! Well, we guess these two new skins from GHskinz are appealing to a few different types of gamer, unless someone out there digs skulls and blood while waltzing through a field of flowers and butterflies.In any case, the designs are very crisp and clear, and when you know you suck at coming up with a decent mod, you'll probably want to pick up something a bit more professional. Stick with a skin, and make it a good'un. Hit the break to check out what we like to call DS Happy. Nothing gonna get us down today!
GHSkinz opens up new line of pricey PSP skins
GHSkinz, a company that specifically makes skins for Guitar Hero and Rock Band instruments is now opening up a line of skins for handheld systems. The PSP is included, but unfortunately has the most ridiculously expensive ones at $10.95 a pop. That's more than double the price that their Nintendo DS and iPod Touch lines go for.That's not to say that their products are not any good; the designs are quite beautiful -- just have a look. It just makes us scratch our heads as to why the PSP gets screwed over with such a large bill. Anyway, that's expensive in our minds but ultimately that's up to you if you're willing to pay the price.
Photojojo offers keyboard shortcut skins
For listeners of The Talk Show's marathon keyboard episode, you might remember a brief mention of those templates you used to get with software that fit over the function keys of your old Apple Extended Keyboard. If you still pine for those, Photojojo has a brand new set of keyboard overlays for Photoshop, Aperture, Final Cut Pro, and more for a vast array of recent Apple desktop and laptop keyboards. They're molded from rubber, washable, and fit your keyboard like a glove. Plus, they keep out the dust and crud that keyboards typically accumulate. Laptop skins are $30, and desktop skins are $40. Fast shipping options are available, too. Thanks, Amit!
DS Daily: Who's got their skin on?
GelaSkins' awesome range of DS skins got us thinking about decorating our handhelds all over again, but who out there has already skinned their DS, and which design did you opt for? Better still, have any of you customized your own DS skin? If so, now is your chance to show it off (pictures are a must for this DS Daily, obviously), and perhaps even earn yourself some internet fame!** Amongst the people who read DS Fanboy comment threads.%Gallery-20794%
DecalGirl offers guitar solutions
Still looking for the perfect way to personalize your Guitar Hero III controller? If you've been unlucky with faceplates and other solutions, skin central DecalGirl may have what you're looking for. They've got a wide array of designs for other systems (blasphemy) and for the Wii controller (not blasphemy), and they're available on the cheap at $14.99 apiece. [Via Hawty McBloggy]
Make Thunderbird resemble Leopard Mail
I use Thunderbird for email on my laptop running Ubuntu. It works great, but the default skin isn't to my liking. I've tried skinning it with mixed results, but today I've found The Skin I've Been Looking For (but not in a creepy, Buffalo Bill kind of way). Deviant Art user ~Rio-2007 has posted a very convincing Mail for Leopard skin. After download, simply apply the skin via Thunderbird's Add-Ons option (Thunderbird 2.0 is required). Try it out. Because even our non-Macs must resemble Macs, not that we're obsessed.[Via Lifehacker]
Gateway intros new skins for M-Series and T-Series laptops
Gateway knows that it takes more than a bunch of meaningless digits related to "CPU speed" and "hard drive capacity" to get today's fast-paced teenagers buying its laptops -- which is why they've just announced new "skin" updates to the M-Series and T-Series models. Beginning today, users will be able to purchase the computers in their original "Garnet Red" and "Pacific Blue," as well as the new shades "Merlot," "Siver," and "Arctic Bloom." Finally, there can be more to your Gateway than mere technical features.
Skinit brings skins to D-Link routers, world sighs
Yeah, Skinit has been providing skins of all sorts to a plethora of devices for some time now, but apparently, it has just gotten around to teaming up with D-Link. Granted, we've no idea what type of cruel, tactless individual would actually go so far as to spend money (and simultaneously demolish any hope of resale) on vivid coverings for their router, but for those who dig this type of thing, you can finally eat your heart out. As of right now, consumers with a DIR-655, DIR-625, DIR-615, DGL-4500, DGL-4300, DGL-4100 or DIR-624 can surf on over to Skinit's website and choose from a smorgasbord of options or create a skin of their own for $14.99, but don't act like we're condoning said action, alright?
Reminder: End of the Year Blowout (day nine)
Each day, between now and the 26th, we're going to look at a different piece of the DS Fanswag End of the Year giveaway as a reminder of exactly why you need to hightail it over there and enter. Today? Random stuff with which you can dress up your DS. About 50% of you should be pleased about the fact that many of the prize packs include skins. Want 'em? Go enter the contest! Remember, you can enter once per day. And if you're having any trouble with the comments, check here for a handy walkthrough.And while you're blowing out the end of the year and all, don't forget to head over to our two polls and vote for your picks for best games of the year.
BF and GF love their DSes
It might just be some skins slapped onto a DS Lite, but seeing the "his and her" units fills us with so much joy. Mainly, because each person can't stand to be away from their DS long enough to let their significant other enjoy the handheld. Their desire to play is so strong that each of them has to own their very own system. Yoshi-themed for her and Star Wars-themed for him. Nice.Read - Her DS LiteRead - His DS Lite
