rotation

Basic photo rotator

Photo Rotator is a very basic program that allows users to flip and rotate JPEGs. Although the program works fine, we suspect that most users already have a way to do this that doesn't require a whole separate program.

Photo Rotator's interface is basic and fairly intuitive. We don't especially like the fact that users have to drag and drop images into the program; although this is handy sometimes, we'd also like to have the option to go to a File menu and open images that way. Users can drag and drop multiple photos into the … Read more

Versatile photo compressor

Image Compressor 2008 lets users shrink large images' file size without compromising quality. In addition, this simple program provides other image-altering tools to make a complete package.

Image Compressor 2008's interface features a crowded collection of command icons and a few smaller windows showcasing image details. Luckily, the program first offers a fantastic walk-through tutorial. In addition, users can consult an excellent Help file. Compressing files was surprisingly simple and involves selecting a photo, clicking on the Compression icon and choosing a destination. The file (or files if you choose Batch Compression) is compressed in a matter of seconds. … Read more

Quick cropping program

Click 2 Crop provides users with a fast and easy way to resize any photo. While the primary action is fantastic, users may get overwhelmed with the special features--some necessary and some unnecessary.

The program's interface is initially very intuitive. Looking very similar to other photo-editing software, it should come natural to anyone with such experience. However, the wealth of command buttons along the top will require a quick trip to the Help file for definitions. Resizing a picture will feel instantly familiar to those who have seen and operated photo-editing software before. A box made from a dashed … Read more

Turn the world upside down

And Yet It Moves is a cleverly designed, rule-breaking 2D platformer game in which you rotate the entire game world (basically, changing the orientation of gravity) while moving through increasingly complex levels and solving environmental puzzles. The game's interface is very simple: key commands let you move left, right, and jump, as well as rotate the game world 180 or 90 degrees, clockwise or counterclockwise--and you often have to time your avatar's movement precisely with the world's movement, as you navigate through tight passageways, walk off (and then onto and under) precipices, and avoid falling objects. In … Read more

Rotating pizza oven keeps the pizza moving

I'm afraid the search will never end. The search for delicious pizza, that is. And why would I want it to end? As they say, "getting there is half the fun." But sometimes it isn't easy. While I may lament the selection of real pizzerias in my neck of the woods, that doesn't mean I'm going to stop searching anytime soon. However, as much as I enjoy the hunt, sometimes I am ready to settle for something known to be less than spectacular.

I'm talking about frozen pizza here. As delicious as "… Read more

Got a gadget gathering dust? Gazelle will resell or recycle

Gazelle on Monday relaunched its Web service that finds a home for unwanted electronic toys.

Originally called Second Rotation, the year-old site has been redesigned to make it quicker to sell electronics in more categories. It also adds a feature that lets people recycle goods that have no resell value.

So if you have an iPhone that you no longer want, you type in the product name and input information on its condition to find out what it's worth. Gazelle will send you a shipping slip and/or a box. Once received, Gazelle wipes the data clean and sells … Read more

Rotating iHome dock rolls over for the iPhone

Call us shortsighted, but we'd always assumed that people would watch video on a mobile phone or portable player only while on the go, not at home or on the desktop--if at all. But if recent products are any indication, that doesn't seem to be the case.

There have been an increasing number of docks and speakers for the iPhone and iPod Touch, for instance, that are meant to accommodate their displays in a horizontal viewing position. The latest example comes from iHome in the form of its "iH41B Rotating Alarm Clock."

Not only is this … Read more

Rotating iPod case can spin speakers too

On the rare occasions that our bosses let us leave the desk and visit the gym, some of us at Crave have found that rotating cases for the iPod come in surprisingly handy for their flexibility. And apparently we're not alone, because others are coming up with new 360-degree designs all the time.

The latest example not only rotates the case, but has built-in speakers that can be spun around too. The two tiny speakers can be exposed on either side of a classic or fifth-generation iPod, then twisted behind the player in a hidden position, according to Popgadget. … Read more

Remote should be required for rotating fireplace

As we were saying the other day, we're pretty much suckers for anything with a remote. And when the object it's controlling is a rotating fireplace, it immediately jumps to the top of the list.

Although fireplaces in general have increasingly become the targets of home entertainment trends, the focus is usually on their gadgetry rather than the hearth itself. But the aptly named "Diva" from Germany's Spartherm simply won't be denied the spotlight as it rotates at will to whatever position desired. Trender says the remote is optional, but come on. Can you … Read more