Perfect: Launches

Posted by Dan Holevoet, Developer Programs

We're happy to announce the launch of the canvas view feature to iGoogle users in the U.S., rolling out over the course of the day. The canvas view feature allows gadget developers to build richer content, games, and UI for iGoogle's tens of millions of users by allowing them to build powerful full-page applications. In addition, canvas view provides developers with the opportunity to monetize their gadgets.

To get started, check out the documentation and examples on the iGoogle developer website. The site includes detailed information about iGoogle as well as information on upcoming OpenSocial functionality.

Try out the updated version of iGoogle and checkout some of the great canvas view gadgets developers have already built.
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FunGoPlay, a virtual world that rewards outdoor play for children ages 6 to 11, is launching a free trial period Wednesday.

Users who sign up receive either a flying disc or soccer ball to use for the game at the end of the free trial period on July 15, when the subscription service begins. Both have a chip inside of them that registers active play and offers rewards that can be redeemed in the virtual world.

Almost 20% of children in the U.S. are obese, and video games — an increasingly favored activity — have long been blamed for increasing this percentage. Paradoxically, at the same time, childhood participation in sports is at an all-time high. FunGoPlay is the first to bring together a sports theme, virtual games and exercise.

The virtual world revolves around a cast of 15 “sports heroes” and 26 games. One of the co-founders, Fabian Nicieza, has a background in comic books that includes writing nearly every major character in the Marvel Universe. He helped create the FunGoPlay world that includes rich storylines, a history and a distinct look. While games are the focus of the world, children’s avatars can also connect to each other through a Facebook-like feature or watch sports highlights in a Youtube-like theater.

The company, whose staff includes veterans from Nickelodeon, Disney, Sesame Workshop and Marvel, raised $4 million of funding to create the world.

Now the challenge will be filling it.