Along with the new iPods, Apple recently launched a new version of iTunes, iTunes 8. The new version looks very similar to the old version, but has a few new features that we’ve all been waiting for.
The biggest addition to the program is HD (High Definition) viewing. You can now download and watch HD T.V. shows using iTunes. When you buy the show you will also get an iPod ready version with the best settings for your iPod.
Another important background addition is in the accessibility department. It is now screen reader friendly on both Mac and PC. A screen reader basically helps disabled people to use the computer. It uses audio and/or Braille outputs to help the user to understand what is on the screen. It also works for iTunes content so that anybody can now purchase and download from iTunes.
Genius is Apple’s new playlist creator. You choose a song and click on the genius button and iTunes will create a playlist of other songs in your library that, ‘go great together.’ The sidebar will find music on the iTunes Store that goes with the song, helping you to find new music that you may like. It’s a nice addition but nothing groundbreaking.
On the visual side Apple has added two new elements. They have a new Visualiser with 3D spheres, ribbons and lights that move to the beat and they have Grid View. Grid View is just another way to look through your music. Your library will be displayed using the cover art of the albums. It looks great if you have all your album artwork, but if you don’t, this new feature will be of no use to you.
Although iTunes has not changed much at first glance it has taken a huge step forward, a step into the next generation of entertainment. And along with it they’ve given us a few extra features that can be used or ignored at your discretion.
After a long silence from EA on the Need for Speed™ franchise, they have finally announced the next game of the series. Need for Speed™ Undercover
Last week Criterion Games released another major Burnout Paradise update. The update was claimed to be the biggest so far and they didn’t disappoint. 4 Bikes have been added to the game, two of which are unlocked from the start. 38 clock race events called Burning Ride and Midnight Ride add some challenges for the new bikers, and the best news is that, yet again, it’s all free. The update also brings in weather and a 24 hour day/night cycle, which not only adds a whole new dimension to the game but is also fully customisable. You can change the current time and set how long each day should take. Then for those that just can’t get enough they have also added 70 Freeburn challenges. These are online challenges only. It goes without saying, I was one of the first people to download it and get racing. The bikes are awesome, and their sound makes you want to pump up the volume. They move easily, and perform stunts that are out of this world at a push of a button. If I have any complaints, which one should never have with anything free, I would have loved to see the bikes crumple up like the cars on the crash cam. It would also be pretty cool to race against other bikes offline. The new day/night cycle has created a love hate relationship with me. I love how it looks but on my small, non HD, T.V. I can’t see properly at night and continuously crash.
