News

After a two-year absence from the App Store due to copyright issues, VLC media player has returned to iOS devices. The app comes to users directly from VideoLAN, the non-profit advocating free, open-source multimedia software. Many desktop users will already be familiar with the advantages of VLC media player.

VLC is extremely versatile, and will play a wide variety of media formats without conversion directly on iOS devices. The app makes it possible to sync files to your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch using iTunes, Dropbox, direct download or an embedded upload server. The best part is that because the app is completely open-source it will always be free.

An image of what could be packaging for Apple's rumored low cost, plastic iPhone has popped up online. The alleged photo came from the Chinese WeiPhone forum (via CNET). The image shows a pile of iPhone 5C boxes, with an odd logo that looks like it could belong to a Chinese Apple knockoff. However, the new logo could also be part of an updated Apple design to fit in with the revamped look of iOS 7.

Apple is expected to announce the successor to the iPhone 5, dubbed the iPhone 5S by the press, alongside a budget iPhone this fall. Rumors have suggested that the plastic iPhone will be available in an array of rainbow-like colors like the iPod touch. The leaked image of the alleged budget iPhone packaging also has an iPod-like feel.

The popular tower defense game Kingdom Rush: Frontiers is getting a major update. Ironhide Studios has listened to its iOS fans and is adding all new levels, enemies and heroes on August 1st. Unfortunately, Ironhide disappointed other fans of the franchise by once again snubbing Android, Flash and Steam users. However, the developer did address the controversy via its official Facebook page on Friday:

"Hi everyone! We are working very hard to deliver the Android, Flash and Steam versions as soon as possible. Your feedback is always welcomed and very useful for us. Stay tuned for more news and surprises! Thank you for being part of our awesome community!"

Demand for Android, Flash and Steam versions of the game has turned into an outright flame war on all Ironhide's social media pages. Hopefully those fans will get a chance to enjoy Frontiers soon, because it is a shame that anyone is being left out of all the fun.

Pinterest has announced plans to add a new Edit Home Feed option that aims to makes your account more personal. The new feature basically offers content suggestions based on your pinning history. For example, if you pin a lot of sports related images, Pinterest will show you more sports related pins. The new feature will also introduce Unfollow Boards, so you can stop seeing content you don't like, and personalized board suggestions based on the websites you like to visit.

With internet paranoia at an all time high, Pinterest was quick to point out its Do Not Track option. First of all, Pinterest will only track websites that feature a "Pin It" button, however if that's still too much data collecting for your tastes, you will be able to opt out of the feature.

Pearl Jam have announced a new app for iOS devices. The Pearl Jam Official app for the iPhone and iPad allows fans access to music, news and merchandise. The app also features a Pearl Jam timeline, a digital version of the official Pearl Jam lighter, and Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube support.

"The app was created to serve all Pearl Jam fans, but it also allows our official Ten Club members to log into their membership accounts on-the go," says Tim Bieman, Pearl Jam's Ten Club manager.

The official app description also promises future updates during the band's North American tour this fall. The app is currently free to download from the Apple App Store. The app supports the iPod touch, iPhone and iPad. It requires iOS 6 or higher.