148Apps Main |
- Apple Issues Press Release Addressing Location Tracking Controversy
- Galaxy on Fire 2 Expansion, Valkyrie, Arrives on App Store
- Annoying Orange: Kitchen Carnage Review
- Squid Drop Review
- FrEEday Vol 42
- Percepto Review
- Participate In Classroom Discussions Via University of Phoenix Mobile
- Play Kalei Review
- Send Hand-Written Cards From Your iOS Device With ThankYouPen
- Snuggle Truck Review
- Five for Friday: Week of April 29, 2011
- Great Little War Game Review
- iRig Recorder App Released for iRig Microphone
| Apple Issues Press Release Addressing Location Tracking Controversy Posted: 29 Apr 2011 04:01 PM PDT
One of the big issues is that the iPhone is storing a large cache of data – according to Apple, this is not the actual user location, but a cache of the wifi/cell tower around you. The problem is that the cache isn’t getting cleared out, and this is a bug that Apple is claiming will be fixed in a future software update. This is in line with what John Gruber has said recently, that the length of the history of this cache is a glitch. Apple claims that they cannot track you with this data – that it is sent to them “in an anonymous and encrypted form” and that “Apple cannot identify the source of this data.” As well, this cache will no longer be backed up in iTunes, and that the file will be encrypted in the next major software update. Now, one of the other controversies is that this data was still being sent (approximately every 12 hours, according to research) even if Location Services were turned off. Apple is claiming that this too is a bug, and one that will be fixed in a software update in the near future. Now, skeptics may claim that this is old information, and Apple are only addressing it now as the controversy has risen up. Alex Levinson and Sean Morrissey published a book about this in December 2010, after all. However, consider that very few people actually knew about this until the recent controversy that flared up, and it seems plausible that Apple could be telling the truth, especially as Apple is now largely adjusted their behavior to similar to what Android does. As well, Apple has mentioned that they’re starting to collect traffic data in order to provide “iPhone users an improved traffic service in the next couple of years.” Along with Apple dumping Skyhook for location services last year, Apple has plenty of reason to be collecting location data. At worst, at least Apple is now fixing these issues since people have been complaining about them. Source: Engadget [ Apple Issues Press Release Addressing Location Tracking Controversy is a post from 148Apps ] |
| Galaxy on Fire 2 Expansion, Valkyrie, Arrives on App Store Posted: 29 Apr 2011 03:39 PM PDT
The content updated adds a brand new storyline to the game, picking up right where the original game left off. What’s more, the update brings improved warships with smarter and more powerful weaponry. Examples of new weapons include guided missiles and automatic turrets that fire upon enemies on their own. The update also adds a variety of new equipment, such as emergency shields, time delays, enemy signatures and repair robots. The expansion also adds a black market trading system where you can acquire illicit goods, such as weapons and equipment. In Valkyrie, you can also buy your own space station, where you can dock your ships, and stow any valuable goods you like. Much of the content in Valkyrie exists because players asked for it. “We’ve received an incredible amount of praise and constructive criticism from players all over the world,’ says Michael Schade, CEO of Fishlabs Entertainment. “The Vossk warrior tribe is particularly popular, and fans will be pleased to learn that there are now more of their ships to fly. But we’re also particularly proud of the design of the new Deep Science ships that, together with the new solar systems and unique graphical special effects, give the game a whole new look. Meeting the frequent request of our long-time fans, we’ve even re-released three classic spaceships from the first game as a free extra.” Currently, Galaxy on Fire 2 is one of the highest rated games on the App Store, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. The update is now available on the iTunes App Store. You can download the update for $4.99.  Galaxy on Fire 2™Universal App - Designed for iPhone and iPad Buy Now: $9.99 Our Rating: Released: 2010-10-27 :: Category: Games / Role Playing  :: IMPRESSIVERead Our Full Review >> [ Galaxy on Fire 2 Expansion, Valkyrie, Arrives on App Store is a post from 148Apps ] Apps mentioned in this post: Galaxy on Fire 2™ |
| Annoying Orange: Kitchen Carnage Review Posted: 29 Apr 2011 02:04 PM PDT  Annoying Orange: Kitchen Carnage ReviewBy Phillip Levin on April 29th, 2011Our Rating:  :: ALL RIGHTiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad A weird kitchen-themed arcade game that uses Annoying Orange to good effect.
Developer: Bottle Rocket Price: $0.99 Version Reviewed: 1.1 Device Reviewed On: iPhone Graphics / Sound Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 3.13 out of 5 stars
In Kitchen Carnage, you’re tasked with having to fling different kinds of produce across a kitchen counter and into a blender. The game’s difficult increases as you play and you’ll have to deal with several blenders on screen, some moving, some not, and each worth a different number of points, depending on how difficult it is to score in that blender. Also, you’ll get more points for scoring with the more oddly-shaped fruits, such as bananas and pineapples.
Unfortunately, that’s really all Kitchen Carnage is. There’s not much depth to the game, so it lacks longevity. I can’t see myself wanting to return to Kitchen Carnage much in the future. That’s not because it’s a bad game, but rather, there’s simply not a whole lot to it. So, not a bad game, but not something you’re going to fall in love with, either. Unless, of course, you’re a huge fan of the Annoying Orange character; in which case, we’re sorry. [ Annoying Orange: Kitchen Carnage Review is a post from 148Apps ]  Annoying Orange: Kitchen CarnageiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Buy Now: $0.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-04-07 :: Category: Games / Arcade :: ALL RIGHTRead Our Full Review >> Apps mentioned in this post: Annoying Orange: Kitchen Carnage |
| Posted: 29 Apr 2011 11:04 AM PDT  Squid Drop ReviewBy Timothy Smith on April 29th, 2011Our Rating: :: SURPRISINGiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Get ready for what appears to be another “let’s see how far you can fall without crashing into something” game, but with a few surprising twists.
Developer: Nor Eagle Price: $0.99 Graphics / Sound Rating: 4 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 4.06 out of 5 stars
In Squid Drop you control a little black squid who is continuously falling into the depths of the abyss. You simply slide your finger back and forth to help him avoid obstacles. If you happen to hit an enemy or a piece of the environment it’s game over. Interestingly, the goal is to get the “lowest” score. The score counter measures your depth in negative increments. I thought it was a clever change that kept the game fresh. The core gameplay is extremely simple, but it offers a casual experience that anyone can pick up and enjoy. After my first “game over” at only -176 I was a little underwhelmed, but I soldiered on. To my surprise after reaching -200 a new game mechanic was introduced in the form of little collectable bubbles that help your score. The game continued to surprise me as I scored lower and lower because the levels changed, and I was unlocking achievements and new features each time I dove a little deeper.
[ Squid Drop Review is a post from 148Apps ]  Squid DropBuy Now: $0.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-04-13 :: Category: Games :: SURPRISINGRead Our Full Review >> Apps mentioned in this post: Squid Drop |
| Posted: 29 Apr 2011 10:30 AM PDT Biolab Disaster:  Wacky Balls:  Fishing Joy:   Fishing Joy HDiPad Only App - Designed for the iPad Buy Now: $0.99 Released: 2011-04-09 :: Category: Games / Arcade TapDefenseHD:  TapDefenseiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Buy Now: FREE Released: 2008-11-24 :: Category: Games / Simulation  iPirates! [ FrEEday Vol 42 is a post from 148Apps ] Apps mentioned in this post: Biolab Disaster, Fishing Joy, Fishing Joy HD, iPirates!, TapDefense, TapDefenseHD, Wacky Balls |
| Posted: 29 Apr 2011 10:04 AM PDT  Percepto ReviewBy Jennifer Allen on April 29th, 2011Our Rating: :: CLEVER PUZZLINGiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Change dimensions and how you approach puzzles with Percepto
Developer: Daniel Hooper Price: $0.99 Version Reviewed: 1.0.2 Device Reviewed On: iPhone 4 Graphics / Sound Rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 3.88 out of 5 stars Percepto is an extremely appropriate title for this game as everything really is a matter of perception. In this game, you have to navigate a small figure across the screen and into the exit door. The catch comes in the form of numerous barriers that block your way. This is where Percepto’s unique feature comes into play – you can shift dimensions.
Fortunately, the learning curve for Percepto is pretty forgiving. Each element is gradually introduced, giving you time to fully understand what to do next. Less forgiving however is the three star scoring system that we all know and love from countless other titles. A star is rewarded for completing the level with a second star for completing the stage in an appropriate number of moves. It’s the third star that’s the toughest of all – completing the level in a fast enough time. It can get rather challenging indeed. Not in an unfair way but in a way that easily extends longevity for this simple yet head scratching title. Simply put, Percepto is a great little idea. It’s not going to win prizes for most beautiful app by any means but it has a rough charm to it. The key mechanic of sitching dimensions is great and really gives you food for thought. A bargain at the price. [ Percepto Review is a post from 148Apps ]  PerceptoiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Buy Now: $0.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-04-05 :: Category: Games / Puzzle :: CLEVER PUZZLINGRead Our Full Review >> Apps mentioned in this post: Percepto |
| Participate In Classroom Discussions Via University of Phoenix Mobile Posted: 29 Apr 2011 09:30 AM PDT Education is important. Very important. However it’s a difficult business juggling your university education alongside other commitments such as your job and family. If you’re a student of the University of Phoenix however, you could find this to be no longer a problem.
As well as that you can receive real-time alerts to find out when grades have been posted, along with news of when your teacher has posted a new thread or replied to one of your messages. In an ever busy society, it’s great to be able to catch up on your education on the bus for instance rather than rely on being able to find some precious spare time once you’re in front of your desktop or laptop. Lying in bed, can’t sleep and worried about waking the baby with the laptop? Use your iOS device instead and catch up. It’s a great idea and one I’d love to see spread to more educational institutions. University of Phoenix students can download the app now. Fingers crossed that other universities take heed and more apps like this come along. There’s a lot of potential here.  [ Participate In Classroom Discussions Via University of Phoenix Mobile is a post from 148Apps ] Apps mentioned in this post: University of Phoenix Mobile |
| Posted: 29 Apr 2011 09:04 AM PDT  Play Kalei ReviewBy Jennifer Allen on April 29th, 2011Our Rating: :: SEARCHING FUNiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Play Kalei offers hidden object style gaming but with a twist.
Developer: Chillingo Price: $0.99 Version Reviewed: 1.0 Device Reviewed On: iPhone 4 Graphics / Sound Rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 3.56 out of 5 stars The best way to describe Play Kalei is to compare it to a Hidden Object game. Essentially, that’s exactly what it is. You have to find kaleidoscope imagery within a photograph. The photograph in question can either be one of many supplied with the game, or one of your own courtesy of your photo album. Ultimately it doesn’t matter where you get the image from as the whole point of the game is to pick out very small elements of them.
Using your own images is a bit more fun as at least you can look at your own artwork, or family and pets. There’s also the option to play against friends which is a nice touch and works appropriately well. This is where the most fun can be found as it’s quite enjoyable to compete head to head, even with the limited screen space of the iPhone. Play Kalei is a neat little game but one that I think befits family gaming more than anything else. Playing alongside other people makes for a much more enjoyable experience. Playing alone just gets frustrating with the lack of a hints system and general purpose in mind. For a simple ‘find the image’ game though, it’s a clever idea and one that certainly makes a change from the standard Hidden Object title. [ Play Kalei Review is a post from 148Apps ]  Play KaleiBuy Now: $0.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-04-28 :: Category: Games :: SEARCHING FUNRead Our Full Review >> Apps mentioned in this post: Play Kalei |
| Send Hand-Written Cards From Your iOS Device With ThankYouPen Posted: 29 Apr 2011 08:30 AM PDT They say the art of letter writing and handwriting on the whole is dying. I’m not entirely sure who ‘they’ are but they’ve got a point. With the advent of technology, it’s just so much easier to type and email everything. It’s nice to have the personal touch though but what do you do if you’re in a rush?
It’s called ThankYouPen. It’s a free download that lets you send letters and greeting cards without ever having to go to the post office, buy stamps, the card itself or write the message yourself. All you have to do is choose the recipient from your address book, pick the stationery from a wide range of choices and type the message. The people on the other side of the app do everything else for you. Cards typically cost $3.95 to £5.95 which seems quite reasonable considering the saved effort. The app is all too happy to let you know about upcoming dates too and you can consult it for future holidays as well. Take a look at the video below for more details of how it’ll all look. This one could be a real hassle saver.  [ Send Hand-Written Cards From Your iOS Device With ThankYouPen is a post from 148Apps ] Apps mentioned in this post: Thank You Pen |
| Posted: 29 Apr 2011 08:04 AM PDT  Snuggle Truck ReviewBy Carter Dotson on April 29th, 2011Our Rating: :: WORTH SMUGGLINGiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Snuggle Truck, a redesigned version of the controversial Smuggle Truck, is a game that has you piloting a truck full of cuddly animals through dangerous terrain, all the way to the zoo.
Developer: Owlchemy Labs Price: $1.99 Version Reviewed: 1.0 Device Reviewed On: iPod touch 4G Graphics / Sound Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 4.25 out of 5 stars
Snuggle Truck may be ridiculous, but it’s fun. The gameplay requires a balance between careful driving and speed that you must learn to master in order to succeed at the game. Snuggle Truck’s artwork is great – the backgrounds were designed by Bill Tiller, former LucasArts artist, who’s worked on such games like the Monkey Island series, and the influence shows. The game runs with Retina Display graphics, as well.The game also features great replay value – not only are there over 40 levels, there are 5 medals per level, and it’s not just a case of completing the levels quickly to get all the medals. The bronze/silver/gold medals demand that you complete the level in under a certain amount of time with a minimum number of animals. However, the Ark Medal requires you to save at least 9 animals, but there’s no minimum time to finish in. Meanwhile, the Speed Run medal only demands that you complete the level with 1 animal, but in a time faster than even the gold medal time. The game is promising plenty of future content as well, including community-designed levels, the ability to play the PC/Mac version using your iOS device as a wireless controller, and a level editor coming to the iPad version.
Snuggle Truck may have lost some of its message in its style transition, but the game is still incredibly fun. Give these animals the ride they’re looking for. [ Snuggle Truck Review is a post from 148Apps ]  Snuggle TruckBuy Now: $1.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-04-28 :: Category: Games :: WORTH SMUGGLINGRead Our Full Review >> Apps mentioned in this post: Snuggle Truck |
| Five for Friday: Week of April 29, 2011 Posted: 29 Apr 2011 07:30 AM PDT Seamless: Snuggle Truck: Snuggle TruckBuy Now: $1.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-04-28 :: Category: Games :: WORTH SMUGGLINGRead Our Full Review >>  TriZen:  RC Heli 2: TinyWorld: [ Five for Friday: Week of April 29, 2011 is a post from 148Apps ] Apps mentioned in this post: RC Heli 2, Seamless, Snuggle Truck, Snuggle Truck HD, TinyWorld, TriZen, TriZen Lite |
| Posted: 29 Apr 2011 07:04 AM PDT  Great Little War Game ReviewBy Blake Grundman on April 29th, 2011Our Rating: :: WAR'S A BLAST!iPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Advance Wars ain’t got nothin’ on this war of attrition.
Developer: Rubicon Mobile Price: $0.99 Version: 1.2 App Reviewed on: iPhone 4 Graphics / Sound Rating: 4.25 out of 5 stars Overall Rating: 4.06 out of 5 stars
It is hard to deny that there is just something special about turn-based strategy games when they are executed on well, and this is no exception to the rule. Each turn is broken up into the span of a single day. As is customary the player can move their players around on the board in whatever methodology that they see fit, as to best exterminate the opposition. Mission goals can vary depending upon the situation, but most times all they will need to do is send the enemies to meet their maker, something that is all too fun pretty much every chance you get.
As long as you can get past the occasional instance of camera uncooperativeness, Great Little War game very much lives up to its name. You will get a significant bang for your buck and with more updates in the pipeline, the future seems very bright for this battle. Suit up soldier, you have a war to fight! [ Great Little War Game Review is a post from 148Apps ]  Great Little War GameiPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad Buy Now: $0.99 Our Rating: Released: 2011-03-26 :: Category: Games / Strategy :: WAR'S A BLAST!Read Our Full Review >> Apps mentioned in this post: Great Little War Game |
| iRig Recorder App Released for iRig Microphone Posted: 29 Apr 2011 06:01 AM PDT
The app costs $4.99 and gives you editing options for recordings done with the microphone. The audio editor feature numerous options, allowing you to optimize tones for speech and music, clean up background noises, brighten voices for clarity, smooth out vocals, and change the speed of tracks without affecting their pitch. What’s more, iRig Recorder lets you organize your recordings by date and time and tags them with geographic location for easy file management. You can also export your recordings via e-mail, Wi-Fi, FTP and iTunes File Sharing. You have a number of export options for different sizes and formats, including CD-quality, uncompressed audio. It seems that the iRig Microphone and this new app are an ideal choice for podcasters. The app is now live on the App Store. You can purchase the iRig Microphone, meanwhile, for $59.99 at both online and offline retailers.  [ iRig Recorder App Released for iRig Microphone is a post from 148Apps ] Apps mentioned in this post: iRig Recorder |
Apple has released a press release addressing some of the issues that have arisen in the past week with the recent controversy 
Galaxy on Fire 2 fans: the moment you’ve been waiting for is here. Fishlabs has released the anticipated update for Galaxy on Fire 2, titled Valkyrie, on the iTunes App Store. 
If you’re like me, you’ve never heard of Annoying Orange. When I first saw the icon for Annoying Orange: Kitchen Carnage on the iTunes App Store, I knew I had to review it, purely out of wondering what was going on with this creepy-looking orange character. The game is based on the popular YouTube series by the same name. The show stars an orange named – yeah, you guessed it – Annoying Orange, who heckles other fruits in the kitchen. Much of the personality found in the online video series has been carried over to the iPhone game. 
The gameplay of Kitchen Carnage is simple and straightforward. Slinging the different kinds of fruits as they appear on screen takes some practice, as you’ll have to get a feel for the sensitivity of the controls. But for the most part, the game isn’t too difficult to learn how to play. In fact, this is a good game for anyone looking for something that doesn't require a huge time investment. It’s one of those games that you can pick up and play for a few minutes to kill time while you wait for something more entertaining to happen. 
Before I write this review, I have to admit I am fascinated by squids. They just look freaking awesome, and they happen to be one of the few creatures I consider to be intelligent. Don’t worry, though – I won’t let that sway my rating. When I first picked up Squid Drop I thought I was in for a standard “fall and avoid obstacles” style game, but after I spent some time with it I realized I was wrong. Squid Drop really surprised me, and I actually had a hard time putting the game down. If you’re a high score junkie get ready for some innovative twists that will have you playing Squid Drop over and over again.
The graphics provide a touch of style to the game, and I found the music to be quite catchy. The inky art design and various enemies were a real treat to look at. I was a little disappointed about the menu screen being strangely silent, but I can see that being a positive for anyone trying to sneak in a quick game on their phone without being noticed. The menu interface was a little lacking in my opinion. There aren’t back arrows or any other intuitive markers. You just have to tap the screen in an unused area to go back. Like most high score (in this case low score) games, it is extremely replayable, and the addition of a global low scoreboard definitely helps in keeping players motivated. Even with the few small quibbles I have, Squid Drop is a great experience for the asking price. Anyone looking for a fresh take on an emerging genre should plop down the pocket change and go for a dive with Squid Drop. 
At the tap of the screen, you can shift between a two-dimensional perspective and a three-dimensional perspective. This then enables you to traverse some objects by stepping around them. In the early stages, you only tend to have to do this once but in later levels, it becomes a crucial element within the game. There’s green warp gates to walk into that teleport you elsewhere, staircases and platform sequences that require careful navigation. It’s still a simple idea but one that takes some time to fully figure out the solutions to.
A new free app by the name of University of Phoenix Mobile has been released for all iOS devices thus enabling you to have access to your online classroom at any time and anywhere. While other University apps let you view campus maps, find out more about the surrounding areas or download lecture notes, the app enables you to participate in classroom discussion forums. You can share ideas and post new threads as well as reply to existing ones simply enough through the app. It looks set to be a particularly great way to discuss the set questions of the week whenever you want. 
At the top of the screen, you’re presented with a kaleidoscope image that you have to match with one within the photo. Dragging your finger around the screen, imagery is highlighted until you match up the right one. It’s a trickier process than you’d think. So often do you come across an area on the board that you think will be near the correct pattern but it turns out it’s right across the other side. There’s no hint system here so it’s all down to your skills and patience levels. You can gain up to three stars for completing a stage quickly. I found 1 star was much more common though!
Imagine you’re rushing to catch your train or your flight, you’ve just realised that you forgot to send a dearly loved relative a greetings card. There’s no time to get to the post office and buy stamps, so what do you do? Yup, there’s an app for that. 
Earlier this year, you may have heard of a game called 
Snuggle Truck isn’t really a game for people who like to be challenged by their games – it’s not that hard to simply beat the levels, the challenge comes from getting medals, although getting multiple medals on levels is necessary to unlock later content. The game also only supports leaderboards for 25 of the levels; this is not a fault against the game itself, as this is a Game Center restriction on the maximum number of leaderboards. 
Great Little War Game – never has a game’s title been more honest about its content. As you might guess from the name, this is a strategic war game, somewhat in the vein of what one might find in a game like Advanced Wars on the Nintendo DS. Luckily for the iOS consumer this clocks in at a mere ninety-nine cents, making it a bargain for everyone. But enough about pricetag, lets dig into the meat of the game.
Further adding to the appeal is the cartoon inspired, yet fully rendered three dimensional world in which the game takes place. The cuteness of each character’s design helps take away the edge of blowing them to kingdom come, but face it, who hasn’t had a perverse fantasy of blasting a cartoon character to smithereens? Further along in the game you unlock bigger and better weaponry, which can really act as a motivating factor to drive success. Just be sure not to over-extend yourself in the hunt for these resources, it can come around to bite you if you’re not careful.
IK Multimedia this week launched iRig Recorder App for iOS, which serves as a companion app for the company’s iRig Microphone.| You are subscribed to email updates from 148Apps - iPhone App Reviews, iPhone Game Reviews, and iPhone News To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now. | Email delivery powered by Google |
| Google Inc., 20 West Kinzie, Chicago IL USA 60610 | |
No comments:
Post a Comment