Jason Parker

Apple updates iLife apps with minor fixes, tweaks

GarageBand got a few tweaks, but they are mostly limited to fixing stability issues. Apple says a bug that formerly would crash the app when uploading songs to iCloud, and another that caused an error when logging into SoundCloud with a Facebook account, have been fixed. iPhoto received mostly bug fixes and enhancements to streamline …

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Skype upgrades interface, adds touch

A popular choice for VoIP users and those who make international and video calls, Skype (free for iPhone or iPad) received a few improvements that tweak the interface and give you more control over your video calls. The overall interface has been slightly tweaked to look a bit smoother with a new header and buttons that are more aesthetically pleasing …

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Fun photo apps you may not know about for iOS

Spring has finally sprung here in Northern California, and with the nice weather and everything in bloom, it’s the perfect time to check out some new photo apps. We all know about apps like Instagram, and I’ve talked about effects apps like PhotoToaster here before. But I have come across some new (or new to me) photo apps recently that …

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Jetpack Joyride adds new features to help you go the distance

Jetpack Joyride (Free), from Halfbrick Studios, makers of hit iOS games Fruit Ninja and Monster Dash, has now added Gadgets — tools you can purchase with earned coins that help you get further into the game. Now, when you go into the Stash (the store where you can buy new jetpacks, outfits, and more), there is a new Gadgets category. …

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Hit for the fences with these games for your smartphone

As we settle in to another exciting baseball season this spring, what could be a better time waster on your smartphone than a good baseball game? I usually write about iOS apps in my weekly collection, but this week all the games I selected have both iOS and Android versions, so everyone can get in on the fun. This week’s …

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Zynga listens to users with Draw Something update

Draw Something (iPhone|Android) hit it big at the iTunes App Store by following a simple concept: draw a picture that describes a word, then send it to a friend to guess the word. The game took off immediately at the iTunes App Store for its close resemblance to board game Pictionary, but there were still rumblings from users of features …

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ScoreBig on tickets to sporting events and shows

Do you like to go to sporting events and shows? Most people like to get out to the ballpark or a concert every once in a while, but often rising ticket prices, service fees, and extra hassle keep people from buying tickets. Every day you’ll receive a handful of deals for shows and events on that day. Screenshot by Jason …

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Don’t let your kids play these three awesome Rockstar games for iOS

Rockstar Games is known for not pulling any punches with its incredibly popular video games offered on consoles, desktops, and mobile gaming devices. Frequently controversial and in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, Rockstar’s games are violent and give players the freedom to do whatever they want — both good and bad. This week, Rockstar added another of its …

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Skylander Cloud Patrol might be the next big game on iOS

Skylanders Cloud Patrol (99 cents) is a target-shooting game unlike any other at the App Store, with just the right mix of cute graphics and addictive gameplay to keep you coming back for more. The concept is simple: tap to fire your weapon or touch-and-slide across evil little trolls to create combos as you complete short quick levels. The game …

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Figure lets you make electronic music in three easy steps on iOS: Hands

Figure (99 cents) lets you create a song with three tracks — drums, bass, and synth lead — through a series of taps on a beautifully designed touch interface. The easiest way to get started familiarizing yourself with Figure is simply by touching record, then holding drum sounds to lay down your first beat. Once you’re satisfied with your beat, …

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