YouTube to launch kid-centered app

YouTube is already a babysitter for kids of this generation. Now, to make it just a bit safer and more fun for the kiddies, YouTube is launching YouTube Kids on Monday. It’ll be coming to Android devices first. There will be videos, playlists, and channels that have been created specifically for kids like Thomas the Tank Engine and Reading Rainbow. The app also looks more kid-friendly with bigger icons and simpler interface. And YouTube has taken out user comments and the cruder videos on the site, too.

For parents, you can even limit the time your kid spends on the app with a timer that shuts off programming. You can even turn off sound and search. It even prevents users from searching for terms like “sex.”

Source: CNET

PS Vita losing functionality with cancellation of YouTube, Near and Maps

Sony has decided to remove functionality from the PlayStation Vita with an upcoming software 'update' that will remove the Near, YouTube and Maps functionality from the portable gaming device. Sony has not explained why it is removing these features which further limit what the device can do outside of playing games. The PS Vita's predecessor, the PlayStation Portable, was noted for various features that enabled it to go online, access online radio stations, RSS feeds, and even read eBooks. The Vita had a lot of that functionality removed and it seems that Sony is set on limiting connectivity and functionality even further. 

HTC adds YouTube live streaming to Re camera

The periscope-like Re action camera from HTC is getting a significant update on Android. The device will now let you live stream everything from a daughter’s school play to your sky diving escapades. The firmware update is pushing to Google Play first and into the Re companion app on your Android smartphone. While you can use the Re to record videos and take photos without its companion device. For live streaming, you will need to have your phone with you.

The feature will also be making its way to the iOS app but it’ll come sometime in the first quarter of this year.

Source: SlashGear

YouTube to add support for 360-degree video uploads

It shouldn’t be too far off before you can record those 360-degree videos and put them up on YouTube. The video streaming service confirmed they are working on ways to support this format. Cameras like the Ricoh Theta, Kodak SP360, and Bulbcam are a few of the devices that can record these fully immersive videos. YouTube is looking to take the results from these different cameras and make them work. They haven’t given too many details yet but it’s good to know that this is in the pipeline as well.

Source: Gizmodo