Foundbite beta going strong, now sporting improved Live Tiles and updated UI

Foundbite is a unique concept. We previously looked at the beta stage kicking off with a superb looking app that allows you to capture photos with a whole new level of depth. Not only can you casually browse a gallery of photos taken by friends, but you'll be able to hear ambience recorded with the Windows Phone when the shots were taken. It's a great way to immerse yourself.

Since we looked at the app a few weeks ago, Mendzapp has published numerous updates for beta testers to enjoy. Without going into too much detail, we'll quickly touch on what's new and why you should be interested in trying Foundbite out. First of all, we'll cover the design revamps and improvements made to make the app that much easier to use (not that it was difficult to use in the first place).

The screen on the right shows a mini hint page that explains what each control does and how to effectively use the functionality and achieve perfect results. On the left is the new camera interface. As well as the new designs, the team has also thrown in a new settings page (see below, left). This area enables you to select resolution and focus mode, pretty much offering some configuration in-line with what's present on the default camera app.

Finally, there's the new map and explore pages (middle is the current version, right being the update). As one can see it's now much cleaner with less clutter, grouping Foundbites together that happen to be in the same area. Little changes like these make all the difference when using the app. So, why should you be excited? Sharing images with sound is a unique way of communicating with others on your experiences.

If you haven't yet tried the app out, you can download Foundbite from the Windows Phone Store if you're part of the beta program (available for Windows Phone 8 only). Keep an eye on the team's blog for more details about what's being added to Foundbite and we can reveal that they're looking to release the app to the public within the next week or few.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.