Engadget RSS Feed http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2013 AOL Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Microsoft 'retiring' Facebook and Twitter Xbox 360 Dashboard apps]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/20/microsoft-retiring-facebook-twitter-xbox-360-dashboard-apps/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/20/microsoft-retiring-facebook-twitter-xbox-360-dashboard-apps/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/20/microsoft-retiring-facebook-twitter-xbox-360-dashboard-apps/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Microsoft 'retiring' Facebook and Twitter Xbox 360 Dashboard apps

Eagle-eyed gamers may have already noticed that the Xbox 360's dedicated Twitter and Facebook apps have gone missing after the latest Dashboard update, and now Redmond has confirmed it's put the applications out to pasture. According to a Microsoft representative that spoke to IGN, the firm is "retiring the Facebook and Twitter apps" as it works to streamline functionality. When asked if the pair of apps will ever make a comeback, Ballmer and Co. didn't comment. Still crave to update your friends on your latest gaming exploits through the console? Spreading the news on the digital grapevine is still possible, but you'll have to access the social networks through the freshly added Internet Explorer app -- an experience we hope Xbox SmartGlass will improve.

Filed under: ,

Comments

Via: Joystiq

Source: IGN

]]> appappsdashboard updatedashboard update fall 2012dashboard updatesdashboard-updateDashboardUpdateDashboardUpdateFall2012DashboardUpdatesFacebookFacebook appfacebook appsFacebookAppFacebookAppsMicrosoftminipostTwitterTwitter apptwitter appsTwitterAppTwitterAppsXboxXbox 360xbox 360 dashboard updateXbox DashboardXbox Dashboard updateXbox LiveXbox360Xbox360DashboardUpdateXboxDashboardXboxDashboardUpdateXboxLive Sat, 20 Oct 2012 08:40:00 -0400 21|20355721 <![CDATA[PSA: Xbox 360 Fall Dashboard update rolling out today]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/16/psa-xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/16/psa-xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/16/psa-xbox-360-fall-dashboard-update/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments

Your chance to shout voice commands at Engadget is coming today, as Microsoft is rolling out its Fall Dashboard update to the Xbox 360 today, headlined by the inclusion of Internet Explorer. The update also adds a version of its popular "pinning" functionality, a variety of specialized sports apps (NBA, NHL, and Monday Night Football from ESPN), the ability to recommend and rate content, and some UI tweaks across all of the 360 Dashboard's categories. Xbox Music is also in there, as is SmartGlass support, though the latter won't have any functionality until October 26, according to Microsoft's Major Nelson. The update may not come immediately, as it's being rolled out gradually across various regions. 3 million folks get in this week, while others may not see it until a week or two from now, says Microsoft. We've got a full hands-on right here for you to read in the meantime, of course.

Filed under: ,

Comments

Source: Major Nelson

]]> dashboard updatedashboard update fall 2012DashboardUpdateDashboardUpdateFall2012fall 2012 dashboard updateFall2012DashboardUpdateinternet explorerInternetExplorerkinectmicrosoftpsapublic service announcementPublicServiceAnnouncementxboxxbox 360xbox dashboard updatexbox musicxbox videoXbox360XboxDashboardUpdateXboxMusicXboxVideo Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:12:00 -0400 21|20350984 <![CDATA[Microsoft patent applications take Kinect into mobile cameras, movie-making]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/02/microsoft-patent-applications-take-kinect-into-mobile-cameras/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/02/microsoft-patent-applications-take-kinect-into-mobile-cameras/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/02/microsoft-patent-applications-take-kinect-into-mobile-cameras/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Microsoft patent applications take Kinect into mobile cameras, moviemaking

Microsoft has never been shy about its ambitions for Kinect's depth sensing abilities. A pair of patent applications, however, show that its hopes and dreams are taking a more Hollywood turn. One patent has the depth camera going portable: a "mobile environment sensor" determines its trajectory through a room and generates a depth map as it goes, whether it's using a Kinect-style infrared sensor or stereoscopic cameras. If the visual mapping isn't enough, the would-be camera relies on a motion sensor like an accelerometer to better judge its position as it's jostled around. Microsoft doesn't want to suggest what kind of device (if any) might use the patent for its camera, but it's not ruling out anything from smartphones through to traditional PCs.

The second patent filing uses the Kinect already in the house for that directorial debut you've always been putting off. Hand gestures control the movie editing, but the depth camera both generates a model of the environment and creates 3D props out of real objects. Motion capture, naturally, lets the humans in the scene pursue their own short-lived acting careers. We haven't seen any immediate signs that Microsoft is planning to use this or the mobile sensor patent filing in the real world, although both are closer to reality than some of the flights of fancy that pass by the USPTO -- the movie editor has all the hallmarks of a potential Dashboard update or Kinect Fun Labs project.

Filed under: ,

Comments

]]> accelerometerapplicationcameracamerasdashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatedepthdepth cameraDepthCameraeditingediting softwareEditingSoftwareeditorfilinginfraredkinectkinect fun labsKinectFunLabsmicrosoftmicrosoft kinectmicrosoft xboxmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftKinectMicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360motion captureMotionCapturemoviepatentpatentspropstereoscopicstereoscopyusptovideo editingvideo editorVideoEditingVideoEditorxboxxbox 360Xbox360 Thu, 02 Aug 2012 18:04:00 -0400 21|20291991 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 spring update rolling out to some now, everyone else next week]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/12/xbox-360-spring-update-rolling-out/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/12/xbox-360-spring-update-rolling-out/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/12/xbox-360-spring-update-rolling-out/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments

It doesn't bring quite the overhaul that previous updates have, but at least some Xbox 360 users should be seeing a new software update available the next time they turn on their console. Xbox's Major Nelson confirmed on Twitter today that the spring update is rolling out to "a few" users this week, with everyone else set to receive it next week. As for details on the update, he's only gone as far as to confirm that it contains "behind the scenes improvements & prep for future enhancements." Presumably, those future enhancements include many of the new features we saw at E3 last week, but there's still no official word as to when they'll actually roll out.

Filed under:

Comments

]]> dashboard updateDashboardUpdatehdpostcrossmicrosoftsoftware updateSoftwareUpdatespring updateSpringUpdateupdatexboxxbox 360Xbox360 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 15:43:00 -0400 21|20257077 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 system update gets its colors in order, makes it mandatory]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/xbox-360-system-update-gets-its-colors-in-order-makes-it-mandat/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/xbox-360-system-update-gets-its-colors-in-order-makes-it-mandat/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/xbox-360-system-update-gets-its-colors-in-order-makes-it-mandat/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Remember those color problems experienced by some Xbox 360 users after last year's dashboard update? Microsoft appears to have fixed the issue in its latest system update, although it will take time for the fix to roll out across the associated apps -- we've been told this will happen over the next few months. Its Sony rival also rolled out its own (optional) update for the PS3 yesterday, improving "certain aspects" of the UI. The Xbox team promise that their update will also increase performance, but don't take their word for it; the update is rolling out now -- let us know how it goes.

Filed under:

Comments

]]> 1080pcolor spaceColorSpacedashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdatefixglitchhdcphdmihdpostcrossmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmetromicrosoftpatchplaystation 3Playstation3PS3sonyupdatevideo outvideo outputVideoOutVideoOutputwashed outWashedOutxbox 360Xbox360 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:55:00 -0500 21|20173055 <![CDATA[Microsoft acknowledges Xbox 360 color space problem in last update, is working on a fix]]> http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/microsoft-xbox-360-color-space-1080-hdcp-fix/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/microsoft-xbox-360-color-space-1080-hdcp-fix/ http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/microsoft-xbox-360-color-space-1080-hdcp-fix/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments While we found a lot of things to like in the last Xbox 360 dashboard upgrade, not everyone was happy after it finally rolled out in early December. We've received word from multiple owners who saw and reported color output problems since the beta began, and today Director of Programming Larry Hryb aka Major Nelson tweeted that the company is "aware of the color space issue w/ some Xbox video apps & are working on a fix". While that should take care of some issues, more recent reports also indicate problems with the HDMI output having HDCP authentication problems with certain TVs or receivers that blocks video output, as well as reports confirmed by Eurogamer that 1080p output appears to be downscaled to 720p internally. We're waiting for a response from Microsoft about these or any other issues and will let you know when we hear more. Let us know if you've noticed anything else in the new Xbox 360 update that needs tweaking in the comments below.

[Thanks, Vinny P, Brad R. and everyone else who sent this in]

Filed under:

Comments

]]> 1080pcolor spaceColorSpacedashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefixglitchhdcphdmihdpostcrossmajor nelsonMajorNelsonmetromicrosoftpatchvideo outvideo outputVideoOutVideoOutputwashed outWashedOutxbox 360Xbox360 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:10:00 -0500 21|20152692 <![CDATA[Xbox Companion app for WP7 will launch alongside the new dashboard December 6th]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-will-launch-alongside-the-new-dashboa/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-will-launch-alongside-the-new-dashboa/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-will-launch-alongside-the-new-dashboa/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments The fall 2011 dashboard update for Microsoft's Xbox 360 is just a day or so away from arriving and while certain video partners may not be ready to ring the bell day one, its slick Xbox Companion app for Windows Phone 7 (caught on video here and here) will be there. The app lets users search the Xbox catalog of games, movies, and more directly from their phone, get second screen information on what ever the console is currently playing, see friend activity, or act as a remote control. It's free for all WP7 users and will be available Tuesday, check the gallery below for a few more screen shots and Major Nelson's blog for specific details.

Gallery: Xbox Companion App for WP7

Filed under: ,

Comments

]]> appdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall 2011 dashboard updateFall2011DashboardUpdatehdpostcrossminipostmobilepostcrossremoteremote controlRemoteControlwindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7xboxxbox 360xbox companionxbox companion appXbox360XboxCompanionXboxCompanionApp Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:51:00 -0500 21|20120530 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard update review (fall 2011)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360-dashboard-update-fall-2011-review/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget 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/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#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

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 LiveXbox360Zune Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:01:00 -0500 21|20120353 <![CDATA[Revamped Xbox 360 dashboard to launch on December 6th, Microsoft confirms]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/22/revamped-xbox-360-dashboard-to-launch-on-december-6th-microsoft/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Earlier this month, Microsoft announced that its Xbox 360 dashboard would be getting an upgrade "in the coming days." Today, the company has clarified that statement, declaring that the revamped interface will launch on December 6th. As we've previously noted, the update promises to bring deeper Kinect integration (including sharper voice recognition capabilities), Facebook sharing mechanisms, and a cleaner interface. Redmond also says that the fall cleanup will introduce "a wealth of new content," including live TV, music and movies, available for streaming. For now, the dashboard is still in beta, though it certainly won't be long before the masses get their hands on it.

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

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateentertainmentfacebookgamegamerinterfaceKinectmicrosoftmoviesMSFTmusicsharingstreamingTVUIuser interfaceUserInterfacexboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboardXbox360Xbox360Dashboard Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:24:00 -0500 21|20112009 <![CDATA[Xbox.com upgrade will add new Social features, support for Xbox Live Beacons]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/xbox-com-upgrade-will-add-new-social-features-support-for-xbox/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/xbox-com-upgrade-will-add-new-social-features-support-for-xbox/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/xbox-com-upgrade-will-add-new-social-features-support-for-xbox/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments The Xbox 360 hasn't received its new coat of paint for the fall yet, but Microsoft just announced Xbox.com will be seeing similar changes in "the coming days." The old "My Xbox" section is getting the boot in favor of a "Social" area that lets you keep track of your XBL friends, thanks to some of the new features enabled by the upcoming dashboard update. Before the dash update is released, Xbox.com users can check out Beacons that let them mark which games they're willing to play, or check out a friends activity page that resembles recent additions to Facebook and Twitter by informing you what friends are up to in real-time. Also revamped is the video section that lets users buy or rent movies and TV shows for viewing on their console, Windows Phone or Zune. Hit the source link for a few more screens of its Metro UI-fashioned new face and additional details, we'll let you know when it all goes live.

Comments

]]> beaconsconsoleDashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdate2011friendsmetro uiMetroUimicrosoftsocialvideo gamesVideoGameswebsitexboxxbox 360xbox livexbox.comXbox360XboxLive Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:22:00 -0500 21|20102073 <![CDATA[Find out if you're in the Xbox Live Update Preview Program right now]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/find-out-if-youre-in-the-xbox-live-update-preview-program-right/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/find-out-if-youre-in-the-xbox-live-update-preview-program-right/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/find-out-if-youre-in-the-xbox-live-update-preview-program-right/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments We already got an early look at Microsoft's soon-to-launch revision of the Xbox 360 dashboard, but for the general public early access is possible via the preview test program. Those who signed up for it can see if their applications were accepted now, right back at the official Microsoft Connect page. If you're in, you'll see information and get access to a private Xbox.com forum so you can help sort out any bugs before it officially drops; if not, relax and play some Battlefield 3. Win / win.

Comments

]]> consoledashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall 2011 dashboard updateFall2011DashboardUpdatemicrosoftminipostpreview programPreviewProgramupdatexboxxbox 360xbox livexbox live dashboardxbox live dashboard updateXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdate Tue, 25 Oct 2011 21:05:00 -0400 21|20090495 <![CDATA[Microsoft opens up latest Xbox Live dashboard preview program]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/microsoft-opens-up-latest-xbox-live-dashboard-preview-program/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/microsoft-opens-up-latest-xbox-live-dashboard-preview-program/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/microsoft-opens-up-latest-xbox-live-dashboard-preview-program/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Microsoft is prepping another update to the Xbox 360 dashboard and, as usual, that means some folks will be able to get an early peek courtesy of the company's preview program. While there's still no date set for a roll-out, those interested in participating this time around can now put their name in for consideration in the program, which is said to be a more automated process than before. As for the dashboard update itself, it boasts a new design for "integrated Kinect and controller navigation," new "Beacons" for playing online with friends, deeper Facebook integration, and cloud storage for your saved games and Xbox Live profile. According to Microsoft's Major Nelson, "other features and entertainment partner apps" may also become available during the program period. Hit the source link below for the complete details.

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall dashboard updateFallDashboardUpdatemicrosoftpreviewpreview programPreviewProgramxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLive Wed, 12 Oct 2011 20:38:00 -0400 21|20080390 <![CDATA[Microsoft reveals new TV providers including Verizon and Comcast coming to Xbox 360 (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/microsoft-reveals-new-tv-providers-on-xbox-360-in-the-us-and-int/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/microsoft-reveals-new-tv-providers-on-xbox-360-in-the-us-and-int/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/microsoft-reveals-new-tv-providers-on-xbox-360-in-the-us-and-int/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Just as the rumors indicated, Microsoft is bringing video from a number of providers beyond the ones it initially announced to the Xbox 360 in its fall update, including big guns like Verizon and Comcast. While Verizon is promising "a selection" of its live TV channels on the Xbox 360 as expected, Comcast is only bringing its Xfinity TV video on-demand offerings (no AnyPlay powered live TV -- yet) to subscribers when it launches "in the coming months." Other notable providers include Lovefilm (UK, Germany), BBC TV (UK), HBO Go, and Syfy. As promised during E3, the services integrated with Xbox will offer support for search across all available video, as well as support for Kinect voice and gesture controls. The universal search is looking good since it pulls together various services into one UI (as we discussed on our podcast yesterday), but the reality is content providers and geographical limits on what services you can pick from are still throwing up walls between users and content. Check after the break for PR detailing what you'll be able to access and where, as well as a video intro to all the tasty new TV services.

Gallery: Xbox 360 TV integration

Filed under:

Comments

]]> bbcbingbreaking newscomcastdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefall dashboard updatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdateFallDashboardUpdate2011fios tvFiosTvgesture controlGestureControlhbo goHboGohdpostcrossiptvlovefilmmicrosoftsocialtvverizon fiosVerizonFiosverzionvideovideo streamingVideoStreamingvoice controlVoiceControlxboxxbox 360xbox livexbox live tvXbox360XboxLiveXboxLiveTvxfinityxfinity tvxfinity vodXfinityTvXfinityVod Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:39:00 -0400 21|20074594 <![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/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget 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/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#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.

Filed under: ,

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-360Xbox360XboxDashboardXboxLiveXboxLiveDashboardXboxLiveDashboardUpdateZune Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 -0400 21|20038494 <![CDATA[Microsoft's 'updated Xbox 360 disc format' to add an extra gigabyte?]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/microsofts-updated-xbox-360-disc-format-to-add-an-extra-gigab/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/microsofts-updated-xbox-360-disc-format-to-add-an-extra-gigab/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/microsofts-updated-xbox-360-disc-format-to-add-an-extra-gigab/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments As you'll recall from yesterday, there was one small detail that stood out in Microsoft's announcement of a new preview program for the Xbox 360 -- namely, word that the latest system update would bring with it an "updated Xbox 360 disc format." That naturally prompted plenty of speculation, and Eurogamer now says it has heard from a "highly placed development source" who has confirmed that the new disc format actually adds 1GB of storage space to Xbox 360 discs. As the site notes, the Xbox 360's current disc format tops out at just 6.8GB, which still leaves some room to play around with on a standard dual-layer DVD. That would also explain the free copy of Halo: Reach that Microsoft is giving out to everyone accepted into the preview program -- can't really test a new disc format without some new discs now, can you?

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatedisc formatDiscFormatformatmicrosoftpreview programPreviewProgramxboxxbox 360Xbox360 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:23:00 -0400 21|19897810 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 Update Preview Program begins anew, sign up for your sneak peek now]]> http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/xbox-360-update-preview-program-begins-anew-sign-up-for-your-sn/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/xbox-360-update-preview-program-begins-anew-sign-up-for-your-sn/ http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/xbox-360-update-preview-program-begins-anew-sign-up-for-your-sn/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Once upon a time, the Xbox 360 dashboard looked like the picture above -- then, Microsoft blasted it with yearly updates to transform it into the warm, welcoming interface we've come to know and love. If you're already aware of that fact, then you may also know that a select group of lucky US gamers typically get to test out the latest revision months ahead of their peers, and today Microsoft's holding sign-ups for a new version that will include "an updated Xbox 360 disc format," whatever that might mean. You'll also get a free copy of Halo: Reach if your name is picked -- which, according to Major Nelson, is much more likely if you're paying for an Xbox LIVE Gold account -- so you'll probably want to dive through ancient email post-haste to find your Windows LIVE ID, head over to our more coverage link and give it a go. Let us know what those new discs are all about if you get in, eh?

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateMicrosoftsoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateupdatesX360XboxXbox 360Xbox360 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:08:00 -0400 21|19896254 <![CDATA[Xbox Live mandatory update coming November 1st, all hands on board]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/30/xbox-live-mandatory-update-coming-november-1st-all-hands-on-boa/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/30/xbox-live-mandatory-update-coming-november-1st-all-hands-on-boa/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/30/xbox-live-mandatory-update-coming-november-1st-all-hands-on-boa/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Dashboard, that is. You've already seen the new Xbox 360 dashboard update right here and thousands of you have tried its flatter, faster interface for yourselves, but if you've missed out, it's looking like your Halloween candy bag may include a full-scale rollout. Xbox Live subscribers are getting the above message in their inboxes right now, indicating that November 1st will bring a service update of some sort, after which point "You will notice a change to the layout of the Xbox LIVE Dashboard, a new color scheme, and new fonts being used." That doesn't necessarily sound like a cornucopia of Netflix Search, ESPN, Kinect and Zune Music to us, but it's not like you have a choice -- it's mandatory, and you'll lose all Xbox Live functionality unless you comply. We for one welcome our new gaming software overlords. Unlike some of the competition's updates, these at least add functionality.

[Thanks, Timothy C.]

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateGamingmandatory updateMandatoryUpdatesoftware updateSoftwareUpdateupdateXboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLive Sat, 30 Oct 2010 23:34:00 -0400 21|19696322 <![CDATA[Leaked Xbox 360 dashboard gets demonstrated on video]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/leaked-xbox-360-dashboard-gets-demonstrated-on-video/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/leaked-xbox-360-dashboard-gets-demonstrated-on-video/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/leaked-xbox-360-dashboard-gets-demonstrated-on-video/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Digg
We've already gotten a brief look at the new Xbox 360 Dashboard that's leaked out courtesy of the Kinect beta program, but now that it's well and truly leaked across the internet, we're getting a much better picture of what's in store for the rest of us later this fall. As you can see above and in the pair of videos after the break, the new Dashboard is decidedly squarer than the current one, and contains few elements that haven't gone untouched. You can also now even try out the new Dashboard yourself relatively easily, though you may run into a bit of trouble if you actually want to do thing like play games online.

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatekinectleakmicrosoftvideoxboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboardxbox dashboardXbox360Xbox360DashboardXboxDashboard Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:54:00 -0400 21|19631587 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 getting dashboard revision this November?]]> http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/xbox-360-getting-dashboard-revision-this-november/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/xbox-360-getting-dashboard-revision-this-november/ http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/15/xbox-360-getting-dashboard-revision-this-november/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Let's face it, the New Xbox Experience isn't exactly "new" any more, but it looks like Microsoft may be getting close to another complete revision. If a set of purportedly authentic images that surfaced on Logic Sunrise (and have since been pulled at Microsoft's request) are any indication, it appears that the Xbox 360 dashboard will be tweaked to match the appearance of the new Family Center component that Microsoft recently announced (and is set to launch in November). Those changes include a new horizontal menu system instead of the current slanted design, and some other more minor tweaks like smaller text for the menu options. The image above may well not be the final dashboard, however, considering that some of the other leaked images made reference to Natal instead of Kinect, suggesting that they're from an older build.

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdateleakmicrosoftnxerumorxboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboardxbox liveXbox360Xbox360DashboardXboxLive Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:47:00 -0400 21|19555815 <![CDATA[Datel sues Microsoft, wants its Xbox 360 market back]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/24/datel-sues-microsoft-wants-its-xbox-360-market-back/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/24/datel-sues-microsoft-wants-its-xbox-360-market-back/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/24/datel-sues-microsoft-wants-its-xbox-360-market-back/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Seems like we just can't go a week without some corporate power plays or mudslinging making our pages. Back in October, Datel promised it would "remedy" the situation created by Microsoft's forthcoming (now present) Dashboard update locking out its higher capacity memory modules. The accessory company was the first (and only) third-party supplier of memory cards for the Xbox 360, but it seems that MS took a dislike to the MicroSD-expandable Max Memory units and has since taken the unusual step of downgrading the console to being able to read only chips up to 512MB, essentially taking Datel's 2GB+ wares out of commission. Yeah, classy. Datel's retaliation is in the finest Anglo-Saxon legal tradition, namely to assert antitrust concerns and to claim its right to act as a competitor to Microsoft in the memory market for Redmond's own console. It all sounds rather silly to us too, and could probably have been avoided by a rational compromise, but what's the fun in that?

Comments

]]> 360accessoriesantitrustconsoledashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatedatelgaminglawlawsuitmemorymemory cardmemory cardsMemoryCardMemoryCardsmicrosdmicrosoftthird partyThirdPartyxboxxbox 360Xbox360 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:19:00 -0500 21|19251972 <![CDATA[Xbox LIVE gets 1080p Zune Video store, Twitter, Facebook and more on November 17th (video)]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/12/xbox-live-gets-1080p-zune-video-store-twitter-facebook-and-mor/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/12/xbox-live-gets-1080p-zune-video-store-twitter-facebook-and-mor/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/12/xbox-live-gets-1080p-zune-video-store-twitter-facebook-and-mor/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments Remember all those fantastic features that Microsoft promised were in the works for its Xbox 360 back at E3? Get ready folks, because they're all arriving in five days. At an undisclosed time on November 17th, users will be able to login to Xbox LIVE and check out the totally bodacious new portals available to kill time and act social without actually combing your hair. As we'd heard, Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm (US and UK only) modules will all be featured, not to mention on-demand 1080p / 5.1-channel HD video through the Zune Video outlet. In case that's not enough (and be honest, it's never enough), users will also see a new "News and More" section in the "Inside Xbox" channel with streams from MSNBC, The New Yorker and Dilbert. Yeah, Dilbert. Hop on past the break for a few video demonstrations, and then get back to your Modern Warfare 2 binge before your teammates see you slacking off.

Gallery: Xbox LIVE gets 1080p Zune Video store, Twitter, Facebook and more on November 17th

Filed under: ,

Comments

]]> dashboarddashboard updateDashboardUpdatefacebookfilmslast.fmmicrosoftmoviesmusicrentalstwitterupdatexboxXbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLivezunezune videoZuneVideo Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:22:00 -0500 21|19235204 <![CDATA[Datel reportedly looking to 'remedy' Microsoft's lock-out of unauthorized memory units]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/28/datel-reportedly-looking-to-remedy-microsofts-lock-out-of-una/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/28/datel-reportedly-looking-to-remedy-microsofts-lock-out-of-una/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/28/datel-reportedly-looking-to-remedy-microsofts-lock-out-of-una/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments This brouhaha isn't officially on just yet, but MaxConsole has what it says is a letter from Datel's UK distributors, which details the company's response to Microsoft's locking-out of unauthorized memory units in the upcoming (and currently previewed) Xbox 360 dashboard update. While it's a bit short on specifics, Datel reportedly says that it is "aware of the changes that are required to remedy this problem and will shortly release a solution in readiness for this potential update." In the meantime, it's apparently telling retailers that they can send back the affected memory units if they like, and promises it will replace them with updated units in time for the dashboard update.

Filed under:

Comments

]]> dashboard updateDashboardUpdatedatelmemory unitMemoryUnitxboxxbox 360xbox 360 dashboard updatexbox 360 memory unitxbox memory unitXbox360Xbox360DashboardUpdateXbox360MemoryUnitXboxMemoryUnit Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:58:00 -0400 21|19213715 <![CDATA[Forthcoming Xbox 360 update locks out 'unauthorized' memory units]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/18/forthcoming-xbox-360-update-locks-out-unauthorized-memory-unit/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/18/forthcoming-xbox-360-update-locks-out-unauthorized-memory-unit/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/18/forthcoming-xbox-360-update-locks-out-unauthorized-memory-unit/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Using a less than official memory unit with your Xbox 360? Then you'll probably want to get your act together before diving into the upcoming preview program for the latest 360 update, as it will apparently lock out any "unauthorized" memory units as it adds all those nifty Facebook, Twitter and Last.fm features. That word comes straight from none other than Xbox Live's Major Neslon, who also warns anyone using said memory units that they'll basically be flat out of luck if they update before backing things up to an official storage device and then go looking for their saved games -- which, you know, would be a bit of a pain.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under:

Comments

]]> dashboard updateDashboardUpdatememory unitMemoryUnitmicrosoftnxepreview programPreviewProgramxboxxbox 360xbox 360 updateXbox360Xbox360Update Sun, 18 Oct 2009 18:50:00 -0400 21|19200061 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard Update... updates: Preview program reopened, Sky TV due Oct. 27]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Just as it did earlier this year, Microsoft has opened the preview program to let the most hardcore of Xbox 360 owners poke around the updated dashboard -- presumably with access to all the 1080p instant-on streaming, Twitter, Facebook and Last.fm add-ons we've been expecting -- ahead of its official release in order to shake out any remaining bugs. While worldwide console owners should scrape together console IDs, make & model of your TV, router and more in hopes of receiving an invite next week, a little more concrete news is in order for the UK, with the console launch of Sky TV nailed down for October 27. You'll have to wait until then to find out exact pricing and channel line up availability, 'til then it's a matter of finding out who on your friends list is most suited for the inevitable football viewing party.

[Via Joystiq & NeoGAF]

Read - Xbox Live update Preview Program
Read - Xbox.com - Set a date for Sky Player!

Filed under: ,

Comments

]]> connectdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefacebookhdlast.fmmicrosoftother hardwareotherhardwarepreview programPreviewProgramsky playersky tvSkyPlayerSkyTvtwitterukxbox 360Xbox360zune marketplaceZuneMarketplace Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:36:00 -0400 21|19196412 <![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard Update... updates: Preview program reopened, Sky TV due Oct. 27]]> http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Engadget http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/ http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Engadget#comments
Just as it did earlier this year, Microsoft has opened the preview program to let the most hardcore of Xbox 360 owners poke around the updated dashboard -- presumably with access to all the 1080p instant-on streaming, Twitter, Facebook and Last.fm add-ons we've been expecting -- ahead of its official release in order to shake out any remaining bugs. While worldwide console owners should scrape together console IDs, make & model of your TV, router and more in hopes of receiving an invite next week, a little more concrete news is in order for the UK, with the console launch of Sky TV nailed down for October 27. You'll have to wait until then to find out exact pricing and channel line up availability, 'til then it's a matter of finding out who on your friends list is most suited for the inevitable football viewing party.

[Via Joystiq & NeoGAF]

Read - Xbox Live update Preview Program
Read - Xbox.com - Set a date for Sky Player!

Filed under: ,

Comments

]]> connectdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefacebookhdtvlast.fmmicrosoftpreview programPreviewProgramsky playersky tvSkyPlayerSkyTvtwitterukxbox 360Xbox360zune marketplaceZuneMarketplace Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:36:00 -0400 21|19196401