Consumer Electronics Daily News

Lock and Unlock Your House with Your iPhone

Kwikset® answers consumer demand for both convenience and security with its Kevo™ smart lock. The highly anticipated Bluetooth®-enabled deadbolt is now available to order and has begun shipping to homes across America. By simply installing Kevo and downloading the mobile app, your iPhone® becomes your key. Convenient and versatile, Kevo gives owners the ability to unlock the door with their smartphone and a simple touch; send electronic keys (eKeys) to family, friends and service people; and receive notifications whenever a user enters or exits their door.

"Kevo is not just another lock, it represents a shift in lifestyle for busy homeowners. Whether keeping track of your teenage daughter, granting temporary access to a housecleaner or monitoring your front door activity while on vacation, Kevo redefines the meaning of smart, simple security," said Greg Gluchowski, President, Kwikset.

The Total Key Management Solution
Using the Kevo mobile app, homeowners can send eKeys to family, friends or service people, anytime, anywhere. Once an eKey is sent, recipients can simply download the mobile app, if they don't already have it installed, keep their iPhone in their purse or pocket and unlock the door with a simple touch. With several levels of permissions, Kevo owners and administrators have authorization to send, delete and disable eKeys within seconds. After distributing eKeys, they can choose to receive notifications when a user locks or unlocks the door, for convenient home security management. Homeowners agree, eKeys are the answer to every-day challenges in key (and home security) management:

"Using Kevo is like living in the future. My new smart lock, and therefore my home, now magically recognizes me by touch. Being able to issue and revoke virtual keys to family members or service providers is priceless. Install was a breeze, even for a guy like me who's never replaced a deadbolt, and it only required a single screwdriver," said David Zatz, blogger at "Zatz Not Funny".  

"I have two dogs that I walk and two children, ages four and two. I am always carrying the kids, groceries and my bags from work, holding the dog's leashes, or with my hands full," said Kathy Z. of "3 Boys and a Dog" blog. "This device is invaluable to me because, instead of fumbling for keys (that I inevitably drop), I can simply touch my lock with one finger and gain access to my home. I always have my phone on me, either in my pant pocket or in my purse, and I can just leave it in there, touch my Kevo and I am in. The convenience factor is huge!"

A Mobile App that Gives You Control and Convenience
Kwikset's Kevo mobile app includes a simple interface that delivers much more than eKey management. After setting up a Kevo account, Owners can customize and control everything through their app, including:

• Managing eKeys and settings associated with each given lock
• Receiving notifications when a user enters or exits the door
• Monitoring lock activity and tracking user history
• Updating Kevo lock software directly from a smartphone
• Instant access to Kevo's Help Center
• Kevo web portal offers the same management features as the app via a browser

The Kwikset Kevo Advantage
Kevo combines UniKey Technologies™, Inc.'s (UniKey) secure touch-to-open technology and Kwikset's 67 years of experience engineering and manufacturing residential door locks. This combination of expertise translates to unmatched convenience and security features that include:

• Inside-outside technology - Kevo offers patent-pending intelligent positioning technology that detects whether an authorized user is inside or outside of the home before granting access, to help prevent unauthorized entry. 
• Touch-to-open convenience - Users can keep their phones in their pocket or purse. No more fumbling for keys, simply touch the lock to open for the ultimate convenience.
• Kevo fob - No smartphone? No problem. Users can enjoy the same touch-to-open convenience with the fob. A single fob can be authorized to work with up to 25 Kevo locks.
• Multiple levels of encryption - Kevo uses multiple levels of encryption to increase digital security and is continually reviewed by industry leading independent security experts. 
• SmartKey¨ technology - Kwikset's patented SmartKey re-key technology provides superior security and re-key convenience unlike any other smart lock on the market.

"History has shown extremely powerful solutions that deliver a simple and elegant user experience evolve industries. Combining forces with Kwikset, we are able to deliver a complete, mass market product that will truly revolutionize the way we gain access to our homes," said Phil Dumas, founder, UniKey.

Compatibility, Pricing and Availability
Kevo is compatible with smartphones that support Bluetooth Smart Ready/Bluetooth 4.0 hardware and have the Kevo mobile app available. The app is currently available for iPhone® 4S, 5, 5c and 5s, as well as the fifth generation iPod® touch, third generation or higher iPad® and iPad mini. The app will become available for additional platforms such as Android™, pending software upgrades that will fully support Bluetooth Smart Ready/Bluetooth 4.0 technology. Homeowners can purchase their Kevo deadbolt for the suggested price of $219 at a wide range of retailers nationwide.

LifeProof Announces fre for iPhone 5s

 LifeProof^®, which makes cases for smartphones and tablets, today announced the availability of Touch ID-compatible cases for the new Apple^® iPhone^® 5s.  Users of this new, industry-changing smartphone are now able to enjoy the same waterproof, drop proof, dirt proof and snow proof protection LifeProof cases are known for. LifeProof announces the immediate availability of the fre for iPhone 5s, with LifeProof nuud for iPhone 5s coming soon.

"Touch ID is an outstanding feature of the new iPhone 5s and we are excited to provide our customers with the LifeProof four-proof protection they love," said Fredrik Torstensson, Executive Vice President of Global Sales and Business Development. "The fre for iPhone 5s is compatible with all device features and enables users to get the most out of this incredible device."

The LifeProof fre for iPhone 5s offers a thin, transparent film that seals against water, dirt and dust while still allowing users' fingerprints to register with the revolutionary Touch ID. The unique patent − pending case is engineered to withstand challenging environments in a sleek, slim form and features a clear back to highlight the device color.

The LifeProof fre for iPhone 5s is designed to optimize every feature and function including speakers, volume controls, touch screen and cameras. The waterproof case has gone through independent lab testing to meet military standards for shock and impact protection with an IP-68 rating for water, dirt and snow protection. The LifeProof fre for iPhone 5s is backwards compatible with the iPhone 5. All LifeProof accessories for iPhone 5 including the LifeJacket, Armband, Car Mount and Bike Mount are fully compatible with LifeProof fre for iPhone 5s.

The LifeProof Total Water Protection Program is available as an option when purchasing a LifeProof fre case for iPhone 5s at www.lifeproof.com. This optional program offers repair or replacement should the registered user's device sustain water damage while properly installed in a LifeProof case. For full terms and conditions, visit www.lifeproof.com/twpp.

The LifeProof fre is available now in black and white. Additional colors will be available by end of year. LifeProof fre is available for $79.99 at www.lifeproof.com and select retailers. LifeProof nuud will be available soon for $89.99 at www.lifeproof.com and select retailers.  

Bang & Olufsen Introduces Major Breakthrough in Wireless Sound

 Bang & Olufsen announces the launch of a new range of high-end wireless speakers today. All three speakers are distinctive proponents of Bang & Olufsen's unique design idiom – and unlike anything currently on the marketplace.  The all-digital active speakers leverage the new WiSA standard for multi-channel wireless sound to provide acoustic performance beyond anything you have heard without cables. 

The new wireless line-up includes BeoLab 17, an extremely flexible, compact speaker with very large sound reproduction; BeoLab 18, the latest incarnation of Bang & Olufsen's sculpturally iconic audio columns for walls or floor; and BeoLab 19, a radically redesigned subwoofer that pumps refined bass with a visceral punch – and looks too good to hide.

"These new speakers are at the vanguard of a new era of high-end sound," says Lars Fredsgaard, Speaker Category Director at Bang & Olufsen. "Until now, speakers with this level of performance had to be wired. Our latest launch uses a robust wireless standard with enough bandwidth and channels to deliver a listening experience the way the artist intended it. Upgrading to premium sound – without downgrading your decor – is now available in three ways."

All-new, inside and out

While they have integrated the WiSA standard into the new speakers, Bang & Olufsen has also rethought practically everything about exterior design, custom-made components and dedicated digital sound engines.

With an acoustic lens tweeter and 21-lamella front, available in solid oak as well as black or white, BeoLab 18 marks a quantum leap in the evolution of Bang & Olufsen's signature column speakers. BeoLab 17's wedge-like form makes it easy to place anywhere from bookshelves to walls. Additionally, BeoLab 19, the subwoofer, draws on the extraordinary rigidity of a 12-faced dodecahedron and two drivers operating in-phase to eliminate unwanted vibrations.

All three speakers come equipped with new sound engines that include thermal protection, Adaptive Bass Linearization and a room position switch, so they deliver crystal-clear definition whatever you play on them and wherever you place them.

Immaculate Wireless Sound

Bang & Olufsen is launching the three new speakers under its Immaculate Wireless Sound concept.

Sound that is reproduced as the artist intended it to be has long been a Bang & Olufsen hallmark. With Immaculate Wireless sound, Bang & Olufsen brings this tradition of acoustic authenticity into the wireless age for the first time ever.

WiSA – the new wireless standard

Since all three speakers run on the new WiSA standard, all you need to do is plug the active speakers into the mains in a room with any WiSA-compliant transmitter in order to link wirelessly to your TV, Blu-ray player or set-top box.

For example, all Bang & Olufsen Immaculate Wireless Sound speakers work seamlessly, simply and spectacularly with the WiSA-updated BeoVision 11 television. With WiSA-compliant transmitters and receivers integrated into the physical and digital design, Bang & Olufsen now delivers unparalleled acoustic performance in a wireless surround setup. Of course, you can also connect the new speakers with wires, just as you can add wireless speakers to an existing wired setup if so desired.

The Wireless Speaker and Sound Association (WiSA) platform utilizes the relatively uncongested 5.2–5.8 GHz range to avoid interference from other signals, and to provide enough bandwidth to stream 24-bit, uncompressed music at native sampling rates. WiSA is the first wireless system in the U-NII band that provides multi-channel performance – up to a full 7.1 surround configuration.

"Since 1925, Bang & Olufsen has been dedicated towards providing the ultimate sound experience to our brand enthusiasts through our innovations in technology, design and craftsmanship," states Zean Nielsen, President of Bang & Olufsen America, Inc. "With the launch of these three revolutionary products and due to the fact that we are the very first company to market a WiSA certified loudspeaker, we have high expectations for the new speaker platform and look forward to introducing them to the American marketplace."

BeoLab 17, 18 and 19 wireless speakers will be available during the month of November at Bang & Olufsen stores worldwide.

BeoLab 17:	Priced per set at $3,990
BeoLab 18:	Priced per set including black lamella fronts and floor base or wall bracket: $6,590
	Solid oak lamella front (per set): $1,390
BeoLab 19:	Priced at $3,395

 

Angry Birds Star Wars Released For Home And Handheld Gaming Systems

Rovio Entertainment Ltd. and Lucasfilm Ltd., in association with Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, Inc., today launched Angry Birds™ Star Wars® for home and hand-held video game systems. Based on Rovio's wildly popular, action-strategy mobile game, Angry Birds Star Wars brings the interstellar struggle between the ragtag Rebel Birds and dastardly Imperial Pigs to new audiences on the Xbox 360® games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and PlayStation Vita handheld entertainment system, Nintendo's Wii™ and Wii U™ systems and the Nintendo 3DS™ handheld system. Angry Birds Star Wars is also planned to launch on Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Sony's PlayStation 4 computer entertainment system, when these new next-gen consoles arrive in November.

"Angry Birds Star Wars brings together fans from multiple generations and across two widely loved fictional worlds," noted Jami Laes, Executive Vice President of Games at Rovio Entertainment. "The success of Angry Birds Star Wars is a testament to the versatility of these iconic franchises. As a company we want to be where-ever the fans are, so we are thrilled to be partnering with Activision to bring this one-of-a-kind experience to console and handheld gaming fans."

Angry Birds Star Wars marries the fantastic spirit, legendary characters and classic imagery of Star Wars™ with the accessibly engaging design and energetic gameplay of Angry Birds, thrusting players into a captivating, lighthearted adventure saga, featuring inventive challenges, tantalizing Force powers and a wealth of familiar faces and places. Twenty exclusive, newly created levels join the more than 200 stages already available from the original mobile release of Angry Birds Star Wars. This latest version brings the flock to the fight with the introduction of cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, letting players team up or square off for high scores and galactic bragging rights. Moreover, this expansive edition exploits the unique capabilities of each game system to deliver a distinctive experience tailored specifically to each platform, including sharp and colorful, high-definition visuals (on HD-compatible devices), achievements and trophies, leaderboards, voice command support through Kinect for Xbox 360, and touch-screen controls on Wii U, Nintendo 3DS and PlayStation®Vita system.

The next-generation versions of Angry Birds Star Wars maintain these core features while introducing new play and interface elements exclusive to each system. The PlayStation 4 system's adaptation makes full use of the DualShock 4 controller's touchpad to offer precision, touch-screen handling, paired with full support for PlayStation Move in both single-player and local multiplayer modes. Players can also easily record and share their accomplishments with the world with the PlayStation 4 system's automatic screenshot and video capture options. Angry Birds Star Wars on Xbox One also allows for automatic video capture and online sharing, while adding all the benefits of the system's improved Kinect for Xbox One functionality, affording intuitive gesture and motion controls, as well as voice command support. The Xbox One iteration of Angry Birds Star Wars also includes unique, timed challenges that deliver fresh trials for players well after the game's launch.

Angry Birds Star Wars is available now for a suggested retail price of $49.99 for Wii U, $39.99 for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 system, PlayStation Vita system and Wii, and $29.99 for Nintendo 3DS. The PlayStation 4 system and Xbox One versions will be available for each console's respective launch in November, both priced at $49.99. The game is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB. For more information, please visit starwarsgame.angrybirds.com.

Hastings Entertainment, Inc. to Host Midnight Release Party for Call of Duty: Ghosts

Superstore retailer Hastings Entertainment, Inc. has announced its plans to host a midnight release party for Call of Duty: Ghosts on Monday night, November 4. Call of Duty: Ghosts is a first person shooter franchise that has gained popularity with its multiplayer platform. This most recent edition is expected to have both new maps and mechanics designed to enhance play.

Festivities for the night will begin at 9:00 p.m. local time and will end with the release of the game at midnight. Only select stores will be participating in the midnight release event so check with your local store to see if they are among those participating. While awaiting the release of the game, Hastings will also have a number of offers going on throughout the store.

To find out more about the Call of Duty: Ghosts midnight release party in your area, visit or contact your local Hastings superstore or visit online at www.goHastings.com.

IMAX Expands In-Home Initiative

IMAX Corporation and TCL Multimedia Technology Holdings Limited today announced a joint venture agreement to design, develop and manufacture a premium home theatre system that will deliver a best-in-class home entertainment experience. The companies expect to launch the new system in China and select other global markets in 2015.

The new 4K fully integrated home theatre system will provide a more accessible and versatile solution that complements the IMAX Private Theatre, IMAX's recent entry into the ultra-high-end market. The new system will incorporate components of IMAX's best-in-class projection and sound technology adapted for a broader home environment. Customers will also be able to access current theatrical releases that have been digitally re-mastered into the IMAX format, and will receive unrivaled maintenance and service.

"Our recent introduction of the cinema-grade IMAX Private Theatre, the partnership with PRIMA and, now, our joint venture with TCL, are all part of our carefully designed effort to expand the IMAX brand to additional platforms. While we are very excited about these opportunities, we remain firmly committed to our critical, long-term relationships with our commercial exhibition and studio partners, and to the success of the cinema industry in general," said IMAX CEO Richard L. Gelfond. "As one of the fastest-growing and most innovative players in the global entertainment technology marketplace, with a strong expertise in display and manufacturing, TCL is an ideal partner to help us change the way people around the world experience their favorite content in the home environment."

"As content viewing in the home is constantly improving, we wanted to stake out an entirely new position in the premium home theatre market," said TCL Chairman Mr. Li Dongsheng, "There is no company better-equipped and more knowledgeable than IMAX to deliver that premium experience. Together, we plan to leverage the complementary assets of our companies to create a high-quality, end-to-end home theatre solution."

The parties' 50/50 joint venture will initially operate in Hong Kong and mainland China and include research and development, sales, marketing and manufacturing, and feature IMAX-enhanced, current theatrical content delivered to the home through PRIMA Cinemas' secure transmission system. The parties are also in discussions with local content providers regarding a variety of options in and around China. The joint venture's board will consist of representatives from both companies, with IMAX Chief Business Development Officer Robert D. Lister serving as chairman.

RadioShack Brings One of Its New Concept Stores to Detroit

RadioShack returns to Detroit with the opening of the company's first area concept store on Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 9:30 a.m. RadioShack has deep roots in Detroit, opening its first store more than 44 years ago in 1969.  The completely remodeled location can be found in Gateway Marketplace at 1347 W. Eight Mile.

All concept stores in the company's portfolio feature an upgraded shopping experience, which showcases the company's new look, and incorporates interactive areas designed to help shoppers improve their technology profile. Some features include:

• A speaker wall where customers can shop and compare 13 different speakers using music installed on in-store tablets or played from their own Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices;
• Interactive displays that enable shoppers to find and compare products, including headphone demo stations where they can listen to leading brands like SOL REPUBLIC, Skullcandy and Beats by Dr. Dre; a remote control (RC) toy exploration center; and a GoPro camera display demonstrating the capabilities of several models of GoPro cameras;
• Technology that makes shopping interesting and playful, like touchscreens and apps that help shoppers understand the benefits of products;
• Newly configured displays highlighting in-demand brands like Apple, HTC and Samsung, as well as mobile carriers such as AT&T, Sprint and Verizon;
• Helpful, informative RadioShack staff who can answer shoppers' questions about hundreds of products and services, and direct customers to the items that meet their specific needs; and
• A Do-It-Yourself area where consumers can plan projects.

RadioShack is opening a select number of these highly experiential stores in neighborhoods throughout the nation. The Detroit location is the eighth concept store to open since the company began converting to the new format this summer. These new stores reflect the company's strides towards reinvigorating its stores, revamping its product assortment and repositioning the brand.  By the end of 2013, RadioShack will have more than 100 concept and brand statement stores open and will have made improvements to nearly all 4,300 stores throughout the nation.

Neighbors are invited to come see the newer, brighter RadioShack and pick up an instant savings coupon good for $10 off any $40 qualifying purchase while supplies last, or check into the store on Foursquare to claim the deal for a limited time.

SOL REPUBLIC And Motorola Unchain Superior Sound With New Wireless Headphones

Sharing a passion for music and great sound, SOL REPUBLIC and Motorola, a Google Company, today announced the Tracks AIR wireless headphones. Combining stellar sound, unmatched 150-foot wireless range, dual-device connectivity and an unbelievable 15-hour battery life, Tracks AIR provides on-the-go convenience that active music lovers will celebrate. And with four different interchangeable headband colors, you can celebrate in style.

"After only two years in the market SOL REPUBLIC has established itself as one of the fastest growing lifestyle brands in headphones because of our passion for great sound, great style and game-changing features like interchangeability and indestructibility," said Kevin Lee, SOL REPUBLIC co-founder and CEO. "We're extremely excited that SOL REPUBLIC and Motorola were able to engineer a wireless headphone that's affordable, looks great, sounds amazing, and is packed with the most advanced wireless technologies available that we think today's always connected consumer will appreciate."

Superior Sound Wirelessly
Wireless headphones often lack the music experience found in their wired counterparts. Thanks to the A2 Sound Engines, Tracks AIR delivers a music experience that has solid bass, clean mids and vocals, and extended highs. Developed specifically for Bluetooth audio, the A2 Sound Engines are also very power efficient so you can have volume and bass punch without additional battery drain.

"Motorola is and has always been a leader in Bluetooth audio technology and we're excited to pair this expertise with SOL REPUBLIC's prowess in sound," said Matt Vokoun, Vice President, Companion Product, Motorola Mobility. "Tracks AIR is our latest collaboration with SOL REPUBLIC and offers unrivaled sound quality with the best of Bluetooth wireless technology. The same audio quality, but without the wires."

Super Power Wireless
Tracks AIR features an unmatched wireless range that ensures clear and precise sound up to 150 feet away, nearly five times more than other wireless headphones. Tracks AIR gives music lovers the freedom to move around the house or office without having to keep your phone or music player attached to your hip. Don't worry about digging through your bag to find your phone to answer an incoming call; Tracks AIR will pause your music and you can answer or ignore using only the controls on the sound engine.

Never Miss a Beat
With a remarkable 15-hour battery life, Track's AIR has nearly twice as much power as most wireless headphones, so you won't have to worry about your headphones' charge dying during a marathon day at the office. If the battery does run low, you can conveniently plug in the standard SOL REPUBLIC cables that come with Tracks AIR and continue to enjoy your music.

Dual-Device Connectivity
Tracks AIR offers the convenience of dual-device connectivity so you can connect two devices simultaneously, such as your phone, tablet or computer. Seamlessly answer an incoming call while watching a movie on your tablet without having to disconnect devices. Swap from a movie on your tablet to your phone with the touch of a button. As an added bonus, you can also pair a standalone music player such as an MP3 player to Tracks AIR without losing the connection to your two primary devices.

You're In Control
The new noise-isolating A2 Sound Engines also feature intuitively placed controls to ensure music lovers can pause, play, adjust volume and make phone calls with ease. A dual-microphone with CrystalTalk™ technology is built in to one of the Sound Engines, providing distortion-free calls anytime, anywhere.

Complete Interchangeability
Tracks AIR features new PowerTracks™, which are interchangeable headbands that can easily be swapped out to match your outfit or personal style. Tracks AIR will be available in multiple colors including ice white, gunmetal, electro blue and vivid red. Separate Tracks AIR PowerTracks in different colors and styles will be available in early 2014, and Tracks AIR are compatible with all Tracks cables for optional wired use.

Tracks AIR wireless headphones will be available in early November for $199.99 at leading retailers, including Best Buy, Verizon and RadioShack, as well as at www.SOLREPUBLIC.com and www.MOTOROLA.com.

"Hello Hero," Now Available On iOS And Android, Coming Soon To Facebook

Fincon Co., Ltd., a developer and a global publisher of mobile games, has announced that its free-to-play, turn-based, mobile roleplaying game, Hello Hero™, is now available on the App Store^SM  for iOS devices, Google Play™ for Android™ and coming soon for Facebook in the United States and in more than 150 countries around the world. 

Fincon made the announcement after debuting a live-action trailer directed by Anthony C. Ferrante ("Sharknado"). The trailer shows a group of non-traditional heroes facing off against the game's World Boss Pintaurus in their efforts to save the planet.

"Hello Hero is all about fun, free mobile gaming for players lined up at conventions who want to kill time with their friends and those with time-restrictive schedules," said Yu Chung-Gil, CEO of Fincon. "Already a success in South Korea and Japan, we're delighted that U.S. players of all ages can now enjoy the light-hearted fantasy and easy gameplay of Hello Hero."

Set on the Planet Armon, Hello Hero lets players select a team of five heroes, combating evil forces with a wide variety of skills and weapons, from sharp swords and powerful magic to banjos and maracas. Whether it's a guitar-playing cactus, a seductive succubus or a spear-wielding shark, players will be able to form their teams from a diverse selection of heroes, adjusting their gameplay style while amassing great wealth that can be used to build up combat statistics or obtain more heroes.

Hello Hero features more than 200 unique characters that can be used to take on about 90 mission stages, Boss Raids and Player vs. Player arenas spread across a variety of environments including forests, oceans and dungeons. Every three days, players will be able to participate online together against a Boss, combining their teams' strengths and abilities to win epic battles. Additional characters designed for North America will be made available in the future. Gameplay synchronizes across iOS, Android and Facebook, so players can fight the forces of evil wherever and whenever it arises.

Launched first in South Korea, Hello Hero has been downloaded more than one million times, ranked first on the App Store and third on Google Play in the "Top Grossing" category. Hello Hero was then launched in Japan where it has reached one million downloads, rising to #1 in the downloads category for all apps on the App Store.

To view the live-action trailer directed by Ferrante, visit Hello Hero on Facebook at Facebook.com/HelloHeroGame or on Twitter at twitter.com/helloherogame.

Hello Hero can be downloaded and played at: 
For iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/fincon-co.-ltd./id586879566 
For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fincon.globalHH

ArrowFlick One-Finger Archery Game Available on iOS and Android Devices

PocketCake has announced the release of ArrowFlick, a one-finger archery game for iOS and Android devices.

ArrowFlick is a highly visceral entertainment in which players fling arrows at standing targets and such animals as deer, rabbits, crocodiles, lions, rhinos and bears. For each round, players are given five arrows and awarded points and special achievements (there are 93 for iOS and 179 for Android) for hits, kill shots, bull's eyes, headshots, tricks (such as plucking fruit off the stem), even misses. If players stray too much from the mark, they can earn such achievements as stumblebum, klutz or spazoid. Ace their marks, however, and they may be deemed the next Robin Hood.

ArrowFlick includes three game modes (easy, normal, high wind challenge), each with 50 rounds. With each advancing round or game mode, the winds become stronger, the animals' kill zones smaller and their tendency to get spooked greater. Steadiness is harder and harder to maintain.

Aiding players in their challenge is a musical score that's heavy on silly sound effects and nature sounds – birds singing, winds moaning, animals shuffling across the landscape. Players can hear the tautness of the string as its pulled back, the twang of the arrow's release and the thud when it strikes its target. When an animal is killed, it cries with agony. Every headshot to a standing target is accompanied with a bloodcurdling yowl.

ArrowFlick includes three easy rounds and three normal rounds for free. A full version of the game costs $.99.

PocketCake's first game, LavaCat – which launched on Android in late July and iOS, Facebook and Ouya in late September – has been downloaded nearly 100,000 times. It is the first mobile game allowing players to rewind time.

Read more news from PocketCake.