Apple iPhone, iPod, and iPad Will Support Browser-Based Communities

As part of their latest software package update, Apple has just released the Game Center, which is essentially a gaming network for the iPhone, iPod, and iPad. This new service will include community-based features, such as leaderboards, friendlists, and achievements.

Apple has indeed taken notice of the increased role of gaming in online activities and communities and is setting out to be a more established player in this area of the market. Many of Apple’s customers are casual gamers (i.e. more used to a social networking setting) and some have been highly involved in online gaming in browser-based communities for years.

Gaming on the iPad — once more developers create games for it, that is — in particular will no doubt be a new and innovating way for players to be immersed in browser-based games. Only time will tell what Apple has in store. We’ll make sure to keep you updated on any new developments.

Via GamersDailyNews.

Companies Race to Create Gambling Apps for the Apple iPad

With the recent release of the Apple iPad, game developers have been in a rush to create gambling apps for the device. March 27th was the deadline for any game developer that wanted their game to be ready in time for the iPad’s big debut.

21 Online Casinos claims that a device like the tablet PC would provide a great opportunity for online gaming sites, particularly because they provide a more comfortable and realistic experience for the player. They’re much easier to read and navigate than a mobile phone, yet not as bulky as traditional laptop technology.

According to 21 Online Casinos, “The truly exciting thing about the iPad is the potential for more interactive online casino games. For instance, players can actually push the buttons on the slot machines themselves or rub the screen to play scratchcards. The format would allow players to interact with games in the same way they would at an actual casino and would also allow for a more user friendly gaming experience.”

One potential downside is that because the iPad would still run on Apple’s operating system, download-based casino apps can’t be accessed on the device, only browser-based applications. But who knows… maybe a successful online gambling experience will influence Apple to think about modifications in the future.

Via GamingSupermarket.

ABC and CBS to Have Free Streaming on Apple iPad, Hulu Still Considering

The ABC and CBS television stations will allow iPad owners to stream free online content on their devices. The catch is that there will be commercials interspersed within the programming, so for those of you out there that can’t stand commercials, be forewarned. ABC will allow free streaming through an app from Apple’s App Store while CBS will offer “free” programming through a browser-based method, i.e. their website.

Hulu hasn’t yet confirmed their stance on streaming free content on Apple’s iPad. According to Jason Kilar, their Chief Executive, the company is “certainly open to subscriptions as a complement to an ad-supported model.” Hulu has been rumored to be considering a subscription model quite a bit.

As consumers of online content yourselves, what do you have to say about this? Any comments?

Via Dvice.