Windows Phone 7 App Showcase: Local Concerts

When I first downloaded the “Local Concerts” app for Windows Phone 7, I expected it to simply show a listing of concerts showing near a specified location on certain days. Of course the app does do that pretty well, but what surprised me was that it also looks at my music library on the phone and shows me nearby, upcoming concerts by musicians that it knows I already listen to. For example, Brandon recently said …

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Windows Phone 7 App Showcase: Lyrics by musiXmatch

One of the cool things in Windows Phone 7 is the ability for 3rd party applications to integrate themselves into certain hubs. The Lyrics by musiXmatch app shows up as part of the Music + Videos hub and allows you to search for lyrics to a song that you might be listening to. The app was a free download, however it has mysteriously disappeared from the Windows Phone Marketplace. Hopefully, it was only removed temporarily …

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Windows Phone 7 App Showcase: Facebook

While Windows Phone 7 already has some great Facebook integration in its People and Pictures hubs, of course there’s also a full Facebook app in the Marketplace as well. It’s arguably the most well-designed mobile app for Facebook, and it works pretty good. Unfortunately you’re missing some features like video uploads and instant messaging. There’s no way to add Facebook events to your Calendar either. Overall it’s a decent app, but it could be better. …

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Windows Phone 7 Doesn’t Support Custom Ringtones (Video)

One of the missing features with Windows Phone 7 that Microsoft apparently didn’t get around to adding is the ability to add your own custom ringtones. It might someday be possible, and we hear there are rumors you’ll be able to buy ringtones in the Marketplace. In the meantime, you’re stuck with what’s built into the device. Luckily OEMs and carriers are capable of adding their own selection of ringtones to their devices. In the …

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Customize Your Xbox Live Avatar Right Now

One of the great (and unique) features of Windows Phone 7 is its Xbox Live integration. The Games Hub and its Live Tile even show your personal Xbox Live avatar. Previously, you could only customize your avatar using an Xbox 360 console. Well, now with Windows Phone 7, there’s an Xbox Live Extras free download that upgrades the Games Hub to support avatar editing on your phone! You’ve seen a demo of this before. After …

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Windows Phone 7 vs Zune HD (Video)

We all know that Windows Phone 7 has Zune music service features built in, but how exactly do they compare with the Zune HD? Well there are many similarities, but also some significant differences. Check out the video below for a quick overview. The thing I miss the most in Windows Phone 7 is the Smart DJ button. You’ll see this in the Zune desktop software as well as the Zune HD. What this does …

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